South Sudanese-American model Anok Yai has achieved a momentous win at the 2025 Fashion Award held at Royal Albert Hall in London, where she was officially named Model of the Year. The award recognized her powerful global impact and dominance in the industry over the past years.
Anok Yai’s win was celebrated as a defining moment, anchored by a powerful acceptance speech that resonated far beyond the fashion world.
Anok Yai‘s dressing for the award venue was a stunning gown crafted by Dilara Findikoglu, perfectly embodying high fashion drama and elegance. A sharply tailored corset with visible boning accentuated the gown, which was made of luxurious champagne-ivory silk satin.
Her look was equally striking, with a sleek, blunt bob, defined eyes, and shimmering chandelier earrings that framed her face.
The highlight of the night came when Anok Yai stepped on stage to accept her award, where she delivered a message of self-acceptance and perseverance.
Addressing those who doubted her early in her career, she delivered a defiant and memorable line:
“I was told my career would only last six months… It’s been a long six months, huh?”
She later used the platform to send a message to young Black girls in the world watching her; she said:
“To all my little Black girls who are watching me right now, your colour is not a curse.”
“I was told my career would only last six months… it’s been a long six months, huh? ”
Anok Yai’s victory is not just a recognition of her modelling work but an affirmation of her journey, her voice, and her powerful status as one of the defining faces of her generation.
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