Freelancing, running a business, or have own practice? Feedback to win £100 vouchers and chance to be UAL’s Future 50: Founders and Freelancers!
Are you freelancing or running a business whilst a student or since leaving UAL? We're shaping the future of how we support self-employed grads - We want to hear from you! Take part in our Enterprise Survey 2025 to help us understand your journey and better support people like you who want to set up their own thing. You will be entered into a prize drawer to win £100 in not just a shop vouchers! Your feedback helps us improve the resources and opportunities we offer, build enterprise support at UAL, report self-employment trends to HESA and find recent graduates for UAL’s Future 50: Founders and Freelancers Awards 2025. Deadline: Tuesday 7 October

UAL students and graduates are leaders in art and design

Close up shot of moulded shapes in a variety of pastel colours
Written by
Creative Opportunities
Published date
19 December 2024

At University of the Arts London (UAL), creativity knows no limits. Ranked 2nd in the world for art and design in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024,we’re proud to be the top institution offering undergraduate courses—where ideas become reality, and creativity changes lives. 

But what makes UAL truly special are the students and graduates who dare to push boundaries, challenge the norm, and make their mark on the world. From global icons to social innovators, here are just a few alumni whose journeys prove that with passion and purpose, anything is possible: 

Alexander McQueen 

Starting at Central Saint Martins, Alexander McQueen redefined fashion with his fearless creativity and theatrical runway shows. McQueen didn’t just design clothes—he told stories, pushed limits, and inspired a new generation to dream big. His journey from student to global icon is proof that bold ideas can change entire industries. 

Anish Kapoor 

Anish Kapoor, a Chelsea College of Arts graduate, transformed the way we see art. His iconic sculptures—like Cloud Gate in Chicago—play with space, form, and imagination, captivating millions around the world. Kapoor’s success reminds us that creativity can reshape how we see the world and leave a legacy that lasts. 

Jimmy Choo 

From crafting shoes by hand to building one of the most famous luxury brands, Jimmy Choo—a London College of Fashion graduate—proves where skill, passion, and dedication can take you. His designs caught the attention of celebrities and royalty, turning his craft into a global empire. Choo’s story is a reminder that when you love what you do, extraordinary things can happen. 

Gabby Jahanshahi-Edlin 

Meet UAL alumna Gabby Jahanshahi-Edlin, the powerhouse behind Bloody Good Period! Combining creativity with activism, Gabby is on a mission to end period poverty and smash menstrual stigma. Since launching her social enterprise, she’s delivered thousands of period products to people in need while sparking bold, honest conversations about periods and equality. Her journey shows that with passion and purpose, you can turn your ideas into real-world change. 

Steve McQueen 

Oscar-winning filmmaker and artist Steve McQueen, a graduate of Chelsea College of Arts, is a master storyteller. From films like 12 Years a Slave to powerful art installations, McQueen uses creativity to challenge perspectives and drive cultural change. His work reminds us all that creativity paired with courage can change the way people see the world. 

At UAL, every student and graduate has the potential to make a difference—whether it’s through fashion, art, film, or social change. The stories of these incredible alumni are a reminder that big ideas start somewhere small: in a workshop, a lecture theatre, or a studio, just like the one you’re in now. Where will your creativity take you? 

If you are looking for opportunities to gain experience to start your career, why not check out Creative Opportunities? Run by Careers and Employability, it is the go-to hub for creative students and graduates. You can find jobs, paid internships, competitions, and volunteering roles. If you are studying an art, design, communications, or a performance course or have recently graduated, then this is the place for you! Our goal is to help you achieve your ambitions and make a living doing what you love.