*Aiming to aspire to inspire as I chat to others, picking their brains, exploring their gifts and practices. All posts are raw & unedited because none of us are perfect & it is time to celebrate that - I'm here for the honest & real, you?
The Pop Manifesto is a dynamic cultural platform that moves between music, fashion, art, and design—always seeking what’s next. Founded by Ilirjana Alushaj, it has carved out a space for bold creative voices, championing underground movements and forward-thinking aesthetics. More than just a publication, The Pop Manifesto is a manifesto in itself—one that celebrates innovation, boundary-pushing artistry, and the ever-evolving intersection of culture.
Elle: The Pop Manifesto feels like more than just a publication—it’s a cultural space, a platform that curates energy as much as it curates stories. I’m drawn to how it moves between different creative worlds without feeling confined to one lane.
What was the initial spark that made you want to create The Pop Manifesto?
I've always enjoyed connecting with people and find it fascinating to learn about their creative processes and what inspires them. With a background in writing, I thought it would be exciting to build something that's both accessible and inspiring for others.
When you think back to the early days of The Pop Manifesto, what excites you most about how it has evolved?
I think it's about expanding beyond the confines of the internet. As a digital girlie, I love how the virtual world offers endless possibilities, but there’s something special about stepping out into the physical world too—whether it’s through printing, hosting parties, or engaging in meaningful talks. These experiences help expand my imagination.
How do you decide what stories deserve space on The Pop Manifesto? Is it instinct, cultural relevance, or something else?
Honestly, it’s a balance between what I truly enjoy and what I believe others will connect with. I keep an eye on the current zeitgeist, but at the end of the day, I could feature any story unless it aligns with my creative vision.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received when it comes to storytelling?
Give the other person space to speak. While I enjoy connecting with others, I want to make sure the conversation isn’t just about my thoughts and opinions—it’s about creating a two-way exchange.
Do you feel like your background as a musician gives you a different perspective as a publisher and curator?
I think it helps because I understand what it's like to be in the other person’s shoes. I have a sense of how things work, what might feel comfortable, and the logistical details that come into play. For example, if I'm organising an event with a musician, I know exactly what’s needed and how to handle the situation. It also encourages creative thinking. My personal experiences shape how I approach my publication and the way I curate, offering a perspective that might differ from someone else’s, and that diversity of thought influences my work.
The Pop Manifesto has always featured artists who feel a little ahead of their time—how do you find and decide who to spotlight?
I believe I have a good sense for spotting potential, especially when it comes to who’s likely to stand out. My experiences in various roles within the music industry have helped me fine-tune my ability to 'read the room' and assess situations. It’s always exciting to make a prediction and watch it unfold.
What’s a sound or movement in music that you think deserves a revival?
I’d love to see jungle and trip-hop make a comeback. There’s got to be some talented kids out there crafting the next Tricky or Portishead. I’m on the lookout for you!
Elle: Stepping into the role of founder in publishing and media comes with its own challenges. I’d love to hear about how you’ve navigated that space—what’s been difficult, what’s been empowering, and what you’ve learned along the way.
When you first became a founder, did it feel like a natural shift, or was it something you had to grow into?
I never really thought about it that way, but I believe it could be both. Sometimes, if you can’t find a place that makes space for you, you have to create it yourself. It might mean stepping into a founder role, or it might not, but either way, it’s never easy. There’s always a way to make it happen. I feel like I’m just taking my first steps on the ladder, and as a founder, there’s still so much more to achieve.
How do you stay creatively energised when you’re managing so many moving parts?
I’m inspired by people, by travel, and by learning about things like niche art movements or current internet memes. I love going down those rabbit holes and discovering more along the way. I believe that with the right mindset, inspiration can come from almost anything.
Do you feel like the industry has evolved for women in independent publishing, or are the same challenges still present?
I think it’s become easier. Much like the music industry, you don’t need a big media company or label to release what you want. People are craving niche content now—they want micro-conversations focused on specific ideas, rather than broad, one-size-fits-all narratives. While connections may feel fewer and farther between, there’s this strong desire to connect more deeply. Offering stories that resonate with people’s personal experiences is such a meaningful way to meet that need.
At OHTI, we’re all about connection, creativity, and celebrating the process—not just the outcome. I’d love to wrap up with some questions about how you move through the world and what keeps you inspired.
What’s your personal measure of success?
Happiness for me comes from knowing I’ve given my best effort to achieve what I want. I know I won’t always get things exactly how I envision them, but I find peace in knowing that I’m doing everything I can to reach my goals.
How do you know when you’ve made something real—when it’s no longer just an idea, but something that exists in the world?
Oh, this is a tough one. I think it’s when I start feeling nervous, a bit stressed, or shy. That’s usually the signal that I’m about to have to talk about a project with others. I’m definitely not the best at speaking about myself or my work, which might be surprising given that I talk about my magazine all the time.
Do you ever think about legacy—what you want your work to leave behind?
I think if you’re happy with what you do, then hopefully people will remember you positively for that work. But I don’t focus on that as I create. I feel like thinking too much about how others will remember you can be suffocating.
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