South Sudanese-American supermodel Anok Yai has been honoured as Model of the Year at the 2025 Fashion Awards. The ceremony will be held at Royal Albert Hall, London, on December 1 and is organized by the British Fashion Council (BFC).
The award is given to a model who has made a major global impact in the past year. A panel of top fashion industry professionals selected Yai for her remarkable achievements on international runways and in global campaigns.
Yai has had an impressive year. She has walked for Versace, Saint Laurent, Alaïa, and Mugler. She appeared on the cover of Vogue France and participated in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, earning widespread acclaim.
In a statement, Yai said, “Being named Model of the Year is such an honour. My journey—from Egypt to South Sudan to the United States—is one of resilience and community. This recognition is for everyone who has ever seen their story in mine.”
Born in Egypt to South Sudanese parents and raised in the United States, Yai is 27 years old. She has become one of the most influential figures in fashion, known for reshaping beauty standards and promoting diversity.
Her career began in 2017 when a street-style photograph taken at Howard University’s Homecoming went viral. This exposure launched her into modelling. She later became the second Black woman to open a Prada show, following Naomi Campbell.
Yai has also explored creative roles beyond modelling. She recently served as Creative Director for Perfect Magazine, highlighting her artistic vision and leadership in fashion.
The 2025 Fashion Awards is the first major event under BFC’s new CEO, Laura Weir. Other notable honours include Brunello Cucinelli’s Outstanding Achievement Award and a Special Recognition Award for Delphine Arnault, chairman and CEO of Christian Dior, for her contribution to the global fashion industry.
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