Somy Ali’s purpose-driven T-shirt design that reflects empathy and awareness!
Actor and activist Somy Ali continues to channel her journey into meaningful initiatives, from her humanitarian work with No More Tears to her purpose-driven T-shirt designs that reflect empathy and awareness.
Speaking about how it all began, Somy shares that designing T-shirts was born out of a period of self-discovery. “I started designing T-shirts after I stepped away from Bollywood. That chapter of my life taught me a lot, but I needed to rediscover who I was beyond the screen. I studied psychology in Miami, film in New York, and broadcast journalism in South Florida. Those experiences grounded me. They gave me a deeper understanding of people, of trauma, of storytelling, and of truth.”
She emphasizes that the idea was never rooted in fashion alone. “Designing T-shirts came from that space. It wasn’t about fashion, it was about meaning. I wanted to create something that people could wear that stood for empathy, awareness, and humanity. That’s how ‘Human Being’ was born. It was never a brand to me, it was a reminder of who we are at our core.”
Addressing comparisons often drawn with similar names in the public domain, Somy chooses to focus on intent rather than individuals. “I don’t want to focus on individuals. For me, the focus has always been the work. Everything I’ve built, from those early ideas to No More Tears, has come from a place of purpose and lived experience. It’s about helping survivors heal, about giving people a second chance at life. Names can overlap, ideas can evolve, but what truly matters is intention and action. I choose to put my energy into saving lives. That’s where my truth is.”
Talking about her latest collection, she reveals it is deeply personal and inspired by real experiences. “This collection is deeply personal. It reflects everything I’ve learned, not just in my own life, but through the people I’ve helped and those who have inspired me. You’ll see words and symbols asking us to question ourselves. Questioning our humanity, our love for our fellow humans, and for our planet.”
She adds, “These are not just phrases, they are affirmations I’ve seen change lives. The colors are calming and grounding, soft whites, earthy tones, gentle pastels, with some strong blacks to represent resilience. I wanted each piece to feel like comfort, like strength, like a quiet reminder that you’re not alone.”
Sharing how people can support the initiative, Somy highlights the deeper impact behind each purchase. “They’ll be available through platforms connected to No More Tears and through my official digital channels. But more importantly, every purchase supports the work we do. It helps us rescue, rehabilitate, and rebuild lives.”
She concludes with a powerful note on purpose-driven fashion. “So when someone buys a T-shirt, they’re not just buying clothing. They’re becoming part of a mission. They’re helping save lives. All proceeds go to saving lives.”
By Keerti Kadam