Anok Yai has officially solidified her place among fashion’s elite. The South Sudanese-American supermodel was crowned Model of the Year at the 2025 Fashion Awards, held on December 1 at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall.
The honor recognizes a model who has made a global impact over the past year, dominating runways, campaigns, and cultural conversations alike, and Yai’s reign has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2018, Anok Yai has become one of the most sought-after models in the world, walking for fashion powerhouses such as Prada, Versace, and Balmain.
Over the past 12 months, her influence has reached new heights, fronting major campaigns, closing international shows, and using her platform to champion representation and inclusivity in high fashion.
Yai’s victory marks a defining moment not only for her career but also for the next generation of models of color. Known for her striking beauty, commanding presence, and fierce runway walk, she continues to redefine modern elegance while challenging long-standing industry standards. Her success represents both personal triumph and a broader shift toward diversity and authenticity in fashion’s global narrative.
For this year’s ceremony, the Fashion Awards gathered the industry’s brightest stars, honoring creativity, innovation, and cultural impact. When
Yai’s name was announced, the crowd erupted in applause, a testament to the respect and admiration she commands across the industry. In her acceptance speech, she reflected on her journey from college student to international star. “This moment is bigger than me,” she said. “It’s for every young Black girl who dreams of being seen, celebrated, and remembered.”
Beyond her runway dominance, Yai’s influence extends off the catwalk. She has become a voice for empowerment, often speaking about self-worth, identity, and breaking barriers. Her presence on global magazine covers and her collaborations with top designers have helped shape the visual language of contemporary fashion.
As 2025’s Model of the Year, Anok Yai stands as both muse and movement, proof that beauty, talent, and purpose can coexist powerfully on the world stage. In an industry that constantly evolves, her legacy already shines as one of grace, excellence, and undeniable impact.
