‘Chess’ for @gqsouthafrica featuring @humzadeys

CREATIVE DIRECTED, MODEL, AND STYLED BY ME


Humza Syed is a Pakistani - Indian stylist, creative director, and influencer whose work blends personal storytelling with south asian culture and fashion. He uses art as a mirror for identity and transformation, promoting and celebrating his background. In his latest photoshoot, he turns to the timeless game of chess to map out the stages of his life, with each piece embodying a chapter of his self-discovery.
From the innocence of the Pawn to the resilience of the King, Syed frames his journey as a progression across the board, where every move reflects growth, challenge, and acceptance.

“I came to an understanding that expression isn’t linear. There are no rules to it and shouldn’t be suppressed,” he explains. He began to view gender differently, concluding that clothing and makeup are only material. “I accepted that I’m both divine man and divine woman but more importantly, I’m just a person.”