Anok Yai Named 2025 Model of the Year by British Fashion Council

Anok Yai has been awarded the prestigious title of 2025 Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council (BFC) in recognition of her significant impact on the global fashion landscape. The announcement, made ahead of the usual ceremony schedule, highlights her influential role in promoting representation and diversity within the industry, as well as her contributions to redefining beauty standards. The award will be presented to Yai at The Fashion Awards 2025 on December 1 at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

Born in Cairo, Egypt, to a family that fled genocide in Sudan, Yai’s journey to success is both inspiring and remarkable. After relocating to Manchester, United States, her modelling career took off in 2018 when she became the second Black model to open a Prada show, marking a historic moment in fashion. Reflecting on this achievement, Yai stated, “It was an honour… but this is bigger than me. Me opening for one of the top fashion houses is a statement to the world—especially for Black women—that their beauty is something that deserves to be celebrated.”

Achievements in 2025

In 2025, Yai has solidified her position as a leading figure in fashion. She has opened shows for renowned brands such as Coperni, Ferragamo, and Hugo Boss, while also closing shows for major labels including Fendi, Ralph Lauren, and Vetements. Additionally, her presence on the runway has extended to notable brands like Mugler, Victoria’s Secret, and Calvin Klein. Yai’s versatility is further demonstrated through her involvement in high-profile campaigns and magazine covers, appearing in publications like Vogue France, Perfect, and Allure.

Beyond her modelling accomplishments, Yai is a passionate advocate for inclusive beauty standards and social issues. Her efforts focus on raising awareness around racial injustice, colourism, and the representation of Black individuals in the fashion industry. She aims to “make dark-skinned beauty an everyday thing,” challenging the prevailing standards within the sector.

A Role Model for the Future

Yai’s commitment to representation extends beyond fashion. Drawing from her own experiences as a biochemistry student, she encourages young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. She believes that diversifying representation in all areas, including science and technology, is crucial for progress.

The British Fashion Council’s decision to recognize Yai this year deviates from tradition, as they opted to announce the winner ahead of the awards ceremony rather than presenting a shortlist of nominees. The jury responsible for this decision included influential figures such as Emma Davidson, fashion features director at Dazed, and Laura Weir, the BFC’s new CEO.

While the Model of the Year category did not feature nominations this time, other categories at The Fashion Awards 2025 will showcase various talents, including Designer of the Year and British Menswear Designer of the Year.

As the fashion world eagerly anticipates the ceremony, Anok Yai’s recognition serves as a reminder of the industry’s evolving landscape and the vital importance of representation and diversity. Her journey from refugee to global fashion icon continues to inspire many, reaffirming that beauty comes in all forms and backgrounds.