Anok Yai to be Named “Model of the Year” at The Fashion Awards 2025

Anok Yai has become one of the most unforgettable names in the global fashion scene, and her story continues to inspire millions around the world.

In a remarkable celebration of her journey, talent, and influence, the South Sudanese-American supermodel is set to receive the prestigious Model of the Year honor at The Fashion Awards 2025.

The annual event, organized by the British Fashion Council, will take place on December 1 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, marking one of the most anticipated nights in the international fashion calendar.

For Anok Yai, this recognition goes beyond glamour. It is a story of perseverance, migration, cultural pride, and the unyielding strength that comes from embracing one’s roots. Her name now stands alongside some of the most iconic models who have changed how the world sees beauty and representation.

Anok’s rise to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Egypt to South Sudanese parents who fled their homeland due to conflict, she spent her early childhood in a refugee camp before moving to the United States.

Growing up in Manchester, New Hampshire, she never imagined that one day she would walk the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York. Her story mirrors the dreams of countless young people who dare to believe that their origins do not define their destiny.

When news broke that she would receive the Model of the Year award, Anok described it as an honor and a moment of deep reflection. In her words, “Being named Model of the Year is such an honor. My journey — from Egypt to South Sudan to the U.S. — is one of resilience and community. This recognition is for everyone who’s ever seen their story in mine.”

Those words capture the essence of what Anok represents. She is more than a model. She is a voice for inclusion, diversity, and self-acceptance. Her achievements go far beyond her striking features or graceful runway stride. They are rooted in purpose and a powerful sense of identity.

Over the last twelve months, Anok Yai has become the face of fashion’s most powerful brands. She has appeared on the cover of Model of the Year, fronted campaigns for Versace, Alaïa, and Saint Laurent, and continued to represent Mugler’s Alien fragrance, a role that has helped cement her image as a modern icon. Her presence is commanding, her energy magnetic, and her influence undeniable.

At this year’s Victoria’s Secret fashion show, Anok dazzled audiences with two unforgettable looks that showcased her command of the runway. Every appearance she makes reminds the world why she has become one of the most sought-after models of her generation.

The way the supermodel moves, poses, and connects with the camera reflects confidence, artistry, and the quiet power of someone who knows what it means to work hard for every step forward.

The Model of the Year award is given to a model who has had a major global impact over the past year. It recognizes not just their professional success but also their influence on culture, representation, and creativity.

For 2025, the panel of judges, including Campbell Addy, Rosie Vogel, and Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou, evaluated the impact, relevance, and reach of each nominee’s work. Anok stood out not only for her unmatched body of work but for the inspiration she provides to young models and fans worldwide.

The model’s success signals a broader shift in fashion; a movement toward inclusion and visibility for models of African descent who were once underrepresented on the world stage. Through her presence, she has challenged outdated standards of beauty and reminded the industry that true elegance lies in authenticity.

The British Fashion Council’s annual Fashion Awards are not just a celebration of individual talent; they are a platform that supports the next generation of designers, creatives, and innovators.

The event serves as the main fundraiser for the BFC Foundation, which works to secure the future of British fashion by providing education, mentorship, and business support to emerging talent. This year’s ceremony will be the first major project led by Laura Weir, the British Fashion Council’s new chief executive officer.

In addition to Anok Yai’s honor, other major awards will also be presented during the night. The council has already announced the nominees for British Womenswear Designer of the Year, British Menswear Designer of the Year, and the Vanguard Award, a new category that brings together the spirit of innovation from previous awards.

This year, Brunello Cucinelli will receive the Outstanding Achievement Award for his continued contribution to the global fashion industry, while Delphine Arnault, chairman and CEO of Christian Dior, will be honored with a Special Recognition Award for her exceptional leadership and dedication to supporting emerging talent.

These recognitions set the tone for what promises to be a night of inspiration, unity, and forward-thinking creativity. For Anok, it is also a moment to reflect on a path that began far from the bright lights of London. Her journey was not linear. It was shaped by migration, culture, and discovery. From a viral photo taken during her time at Howard University’s homecoming to international stardom, Anok’s career is proof of how quickly talent can rise when given the right opportunity.

The viral photo that changed her life was posted on social media in 2017 by photographer Steven Hall. Within hours, it spread across the internet, capturing the attention of modeling agencies worldwide.

Soon after, Anok signed with Next Management and made her debut on some of the most prestigious runways in fashion. She later made history as the second Black model, after Naomi Campbell, to open a Prada show. That moment was a breakthrough for representation and cemented her name as a face to watch.

Since then, her work ethic and dedication have kept her at the top. From walking for Versace, Chanel, Valentino, and Balmain to fronting campaigns for top-tier brands, she has shown range, discipline, and grace.

But beyond the glamour, she uses her influence to amplify conversations around representation and identity. She speaks openly about her roots, her experiences, and the importance of visibility for African models in global fashion.

In interviews, Anok often highlights the importance of family and community in her journey. She credits her mother for instilling strength and courage, and she often expresses gratitude to the South Sudanese and African diaspora communities who celebrate her as one of their own. To her, this award is not just a career milestone but a symbol of what is possible when perseverance meets purpose.

The Model of the Year honor is particularly meaningful because it reflects the collective admiration of industry professionals who recognize the depth of her contribution.

Anok Yai has not only dominated campaigns and editorials but has also inspired an entire generation to dream bigger. Her success tells young people across continents that beauty has no single definition, and that confidence can change the world’s perception.

Anok’s signature walk has become one of the most recognizable in modern fashion; powerful, poised, and unshakable. Her statuesque frame and expressive face make her an ideal muse for designers seeking to tell stories of boldness and freedom. She has graced fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, London, and New York, consistently leaving audiences captivated. Each runway appearance feels like a statement; a moment where strength meets art.

As the countdown to December 1 begins, excitement builds across the fashion world. Fans, designers, photographers, and stylists are all preparing for an evening that promises to celebrate creativity in its purest form. For Anok Yai, it will be a homecoming of sorts not to a place, but to a recognition that she has earned through every photoshoot, runway walk, and campaign.

The world will be watching as she takes her place among legends, her presence shining brighter than ever. The Model of the Year award is not the end of her story, but a continuation of a legacy still being written; one where beauty, courage, and authenticity lead the way.

In years to come, the 2025 Fashion Awards will be remembered not just for its grandeur but for honoring a woman whose journey continues to change how fashion sees the world.

And as Anok Yai walks across that stage in London, the applause will carry the message that dreams do come true, that representation matters, and that the world is finally embracing the beauty of every story, including hers.

Photo: Instagram/anokyai