South Sudan’s Anok Yai’s incredible journey from a Howard University student to being named the 2025 Model of the Year is truly inspiring—and here’s where it gets really compelling… her rise in the fashion industry happened in just a few short months, defying expectations and breaking barriers. The upcoming British Fashion Council (BFC) Fashion Awards 2025, scheduled for December 1 at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, will honor Yai’s remarkable achievements as the standout Model of the Year. The ceremony, sponsored by Pandora, also functions as a crucial fundraiser supporting the British Fashion Council Foundation.
But why does this award matter beyond the glitz and glamour? The British Fashion Awards are an annual celebration of global fashion excellence, recognizing those who have made significant impacts over the past year. The Model of the Year accolade, in particular, shines a spotlight on models whose influence and success resonate across the international industry—highlighting their ability to shape trends, challenge norms, and elevate fashion on a global scale.
Yai’s recent year’s accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. She has graced the covers of Vogue France, starred in campaigns for well-known brands such as Versace, Alaïa, and Saint Laurent, and became the visage for Mugler’s Alien fragrance. Her dynamic presence and striking looks have made her a sought-after figure in high fashion.
Born in Egypt to South Sudanese parents, Yai and her family moved to the United States when she was just two years old. While she initially pursued a degree in biochemistry at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire, her life took a dramatic turn during Howard University’s homecoming weekend. It was there, through a chance encounter, that her journey into modeling truly began.
The story starts with Steve Hall, an accomplished photographer and Howard University alumnus, who was capturing moments of Black culture and fashion. Noticing Yai having her photo taken by someone else, Hall asked if he could also take her picture—something he often did with models and everyday individuals alike. He quickly connected with her on Instagram (@thesunk), where he showcased her photos. Vocal about her talent, Hall told The Washington Post: “I told her ‘You should be photographed. You should be modeling.’”
What happened next was a rapid explosion of her social media presence. Her initial Instagram post from Howard garnered over 22,000 likes, and her follower count skyrocketed from 300 to 50,000 in just a few days. From this moment, countless modeling agencies reached out, leading to interviews and opportunities—turning Yai’s burgeoning popularity into a full-fledged career.
Regarding her recognition at the British Fashion Council, Yai expressed deep gratitude: “Being named Model of the Year is such an honor. My journey—from Egypt, to South Sudan, to the United States—is rooted in resilience and community. This award isn’t just for me; it’s for everyone who has seen themselves in my story. Thank you for celebrating us.”
In the past, the Model of the Year category saw nominations beforehand, but this year, industry veterans came together to select the winner without publicly announced nominees, adding an element of surprise and prestige to the honor. The panel included notable figures like Emma Matell, Julia Sarr-Jamois, Kacion Mayers, Pat Boguslawski, Rosie Vogel, Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou, Anita Bitton, Aston Em, Campbell Addy, and Carlos Nazario.
And this is the part most people overlook—Yai’s story isn’t just about individual success; it reflects ongoing conversations about representation, resilience, and breaking barriers within the fashion industry. Her rise challenges traditional narratives and prompts us to ask: Are we truly valuing diversity and authenticity enough in our cultural spaces? What do you think—does her story inspire you, or do you see areas for further change? Drop your thoughts below and join the conversation.