Sonia Haria: The Inspiring British–Indian Beauty Director Transforming Modern Beauty Journalism
Sonia Haria is one of the most influential voices in the British beauty industry. As the long-standing Beauty Director at The Telegraph, an award-winning journalist, a respected brand consultant, and the author of the celebrated book South Asian Beauty, she has carved a unique space in beauty media. With more than fifteen years of experience and deep roots in both British and South Asian culture, Sonia Haria has become a defining figure whose work shapes trends, elevates under-represented voices, and influences the direction of the industry.
Sonia Haria Origin and Early Life
Born on 3 June 1986, Sonia Haria proudly embraces her British–Indian identity. This dual heritage has profoundly shaped her worldview and journalistic voice. She often speaks about the importance of representation, especially within beauty, where South Asian women historically saw less visibility. Growing up between two cultures, she developed a deep appreciation for traditional South Asian beauty rituals while also navigating Western beauty standards. This personal experience later became a powerful foundation for her professional writing.
Her academic journey began at Burnham Grammar School, after which she pursued higher education at City, University of London. Here, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Contemporary History (2005–2008), giving her a strong grounding in both storytelling and analytical writing. This combination would later become her signature strength as a beauty journalist.
Start of Her Career – The Road to The Telegraph
Sonia Haria’s media journey began early. In September 2007, she joined The Telegraph as an Editorial Assistant and Beauty Writer. Her talent, commitment, and instinctive understanding of beauty allowed her to rise quickly through the ranks.
Beauty Editor (2012–2016)
In 2012, she became the Beauty Editor, a role that further established her influence in the industry. As Beauty Editor, she produced trend-led features, led product reviews, and cultivated strong relationships with brands, experts, and industry leaders.
Beauty Director (2016–Present)
In August 2016, she was appointed Beauty Director—a position she continues to hold. The title of Sonia Haria Telegraph has since become synonymous with trusted, expert-led, high-quality beauty journalism. With over 18 years at The Telegraph, she is now one of the publication’s most recognised editorial leaders.
Sonia Haria British Beauty Council Leadership
Beyond editorial work, Sonia plays a major role in shaping the UK beauty sector. In October 2020, she joined the British Beauty Council as a Member of the Advisory Board and became part of the Policy Committee.
Her Impact in Industry Advocacy
Her contribution includes:
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Supporting policy development for the beauty sector
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Representing British beauty on national platforms
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Highlighting small businesses and emerging talent
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Championing South Asian representation in beauty narratives
Her respected position means she influences conversations not just in media, but in governmental and organisational spaces.
Sonia Haria South Asian Beauty – A Landmark Book
One of her most celebrated achievements is the release of her debut book South Asian Beauty, published by HarperCollins in 2024.
Why the Book Matters
The book explores:
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Traditional South Asian beauty rituals
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Cultural identity and generational wisdom
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Modern reinterpretations of heritage beauty
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Representation in global beauty industries
Cultural Significance
Sonia Haria book made a strong impact because it filled a longstanding gap in mainstream beauty literature. For many South Asian women, it was the first time their experiences, beauty concerns, and rituals were highlighted in a major publication.
The book quickly became popular in the UK, as well as in India and the USA. It also aligned with South Asian Heritage Month, making its launch even more meaningful.
Personal Life – Sonia Haria Age, Family, Husband and Children
True to her warm and grounded personality, Sonia often shares light glimpses of her personal life on social media. Her followers admire her for balancing a demanding career with motherhood and a rich family life.
Sonia Haria Age
As of 2025, Sonia Haria is 38 years old, celebrating her birthday on 3 June each year.
Sonia Haria Husband
She married her husband, Bejul Haria, in 2014. In August 2024, the couple celebrated their 10-year wedding anniversary, marking a decade of partnership and shared milestones.
Sonia Haria Children
Sonia is a proud mother of three children:
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Two older sons, often referred to affectionately as her “lads”
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Her youngest daughter, Marni, born in December 2022
Her posts show her as a loving, hands-on mother who navigates parenthood with humour, grace, and honesty. Balancing editorial leadership with raising three children, Sonia demonstrates the realities of modern working motherhood.
Sonia Haria as a Brand Consultant and Industry Expert
In addition to journalism, Sonia is a highly sought-after brand consultant. Her expertise includes:
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Beauty product development insights
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Editorial guidance
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Consumer trends analysis
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Brand storytelling
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Campaign development
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Public speaking and hosting industry events
Her ability to combine editorial expertise with commercial understanding makes her a valuable voice for both established and emerging brands.
Sonia Haria’s Influence and Legacy
A Champion of Representation
One of Sonia’s lasting contributions is her unwavering commitment to representing British South Asian voices in beauty. She actively highlights:
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Cultural beauty stories
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South Asian founders
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Diverse models and creators
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Conversations around identity and inclusion
A Respected Beauty Leader
Her career reflects excellence, longevity, and credibility. Whether writing a feature, hosting a beauty event, or advising on industry policy, Sonia Haria continues to shape how readers, consumers, and brands understand beauty.
Conclusion
Sonia Haria is more than a Beauty Director—she is an innovator, cultural representative, mother, author, and respected leader whose work has influenced beauty journalism and the wider beauty industry for nearly two decades. From her groundbreaking book South Asian Beauty to her authoritative role at The Telegraph, her journey is a story of passion, representation, and powerful storytelling.
Her dedication to celebrating diverse beauty, supporting under-represented voices, and driving industry standards makes her one of the most impactful figures in British beauty today.
FAQs
1. Who is Sonia Haria?
She is the Beauty Director at The Telegraph, an award-winning British–Indian journalist, brand consultant, and author of the book South Asian Beauty.
2. How old is Sonia Haria?
Sonia is 38 years old. She was born on 3 June 1986.
3. Is Sonia Haria married?
Yes. Sonia has been married to her husband, Bejul Haria, since 2014.
4. Does Sonia Haria have children?
Yes. She is a mother of three children: two older sons and her youngest daughter, Marni.
5. What is Sonia Haria known for?
She is known for her long-standing career at The Telegraph, her leadership roles at the British Beauty Council, and her acclaimed book South Asian Beauty.
