Anok Yai
Anok Yai's transition from a biochemistry student to an international fashion model embodies a remarkable journey through the fashion world.
Anok Yai for W Magazine
Anok Yai, a young star of international catwalks, has had a dream career start, rising to the heights of success in a swift and thrilling manner. Yai is now a model in high demand by every prestigious brand, though her beginnings were more humble. Born in Cairo, Egypt, in December 1997, to a South Sudanese family, she grew up in modest circumstances, where education and hard work were daily pillars. At the age of three, her family moved to Manchester. Anok graduated there and later attended Plymouth State University to study biochemistry. Despite her academic success, Yai harbored dreams that stretched beyond the laboratory.
In October 2017, a pivotal moment changed her life forever. While attending a concert, she was photographed by professional photographer Steve Hall. This photograph, posted on Instagram, quickly garnered over 20,000 likes. Modeling agencies soon took notice, setting Yai on the path to embodying the American dream: she transitioned from a university student to a promising fashion model, thanks to her distinctive beauty and a serendipitous opportunity provided by Hall.
Her professional journey began between 2017 and 2021, signing her first contract with Next Model Management. In just six months, she became the second black model, after Naomi Campbell, to open a fashion show for the iconic Prada fashion house. This act was a powerful message to the fashion world and beyond, emphasizing the importance of inclusiveness, diversity, and pride in one's origins.
Yai understands the impact of her success and has expressed pride and honor in being able to make such significant statements, especially for black women, celebrating their beauty. From 2022 to the present, Anok has modeled for top brands including Versace, Max Mara, Fendi, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Valentino, Dior, and many others. Her photos have appeared on the covers and in editorials of major magazines such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, i-D, Elle, Dazed, and W Magazine. She also featured in advertisements for Tiffany & Co., Nike, Hood by Air, and Ambush, and modeled for Estée Lauder between 2018 and 2019.
Anok Yai achieved top model status, appearing in campaigns shot by Steven Meisel for Max Mara and Alexander McQueen. She was also featured in a Mario Sorrenti photo shoot for Loro Piana and graced the cover of the American fashion magazine W in September 2022 to celebrate its fiftieth anniversary.
Anok Yai for W Magazine
In 2023, Anok was honored with the Model of the Year Award from Models.com, symbolizing the recognition and admiration of the fashion industry and its followers. In 2024, she continued her impressive career, appearing on international catwalks for the Louis Vuitton men's A/W show during Paris Fashion Week and starring in a music video for American rapper Travis Scott. Most recently, in February, she became the face of Alien Hypersense, the new Mugler fragrance.
Anok Yai's influence extends beyond the runway. Her distinctive and impactful style is admired daily on social media, where she showcases her knack for trendsetting and personal style interpretation. At the 2023 Met Gala, she was celebrated as the best dressed model, wearing a custom Prabal Gurung outfit.
Anok Yai not only represents aesthetic virtue and a successful life. Her public celebration of the beauty of women, their origins, and diversity serves as an inspiration for younger generations. She reminds us of the importance of pursuing dreams with pride, regardless of our backgrounds.
