African models have played a crucial role in transforming the global fashion industry, moving beyond the runways of major cities to secure lucrative beauty campaigns and endorsements. Models such as Candice Swanepoel, Liya Kebede, and Iman have built influential careers with top fashion and beauty brands. Their success has paved the way for others to follow in their footsteps.
Iman, a Somali model, is one of Africa's most internationally recognized models. Discovered by photographer Peter Beard in the 1970s, she went on to work with major fashion names, including Yves Saint Laurent and Calvin Klein. Iman has also built a successful cosmetics business through Iman Cosmetics, expanding her income beyond modeling. She was recognized with Models.com's 2025 Lifetime Achievement honor.
Liya Kebede, an Ethiopian supermodel, was one of the first African models to break into the highest levels of international fashion. Her career included campaigns for Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, and Estée Lauder. In 2003, she became the face of Estée Lauder, with reports putting the value of the contract at around $3 million. Kebede's earnings were also documented by Forbes, which reported that she earned about $2.5 million in 2007.
Candice Swanepoel, a South African model, built a lucrative international career through high-profile fashion and beauty contracts, most notably with Victoria's Secret. Her earnings have appeared on Forbes' highest-paid models lists, with estimates citing approximately $5 million in 2015 and $7 million in 2016. Swanepoel is currently listed among Models.com's Money models.
Other notable models of African origin include Behati Prinsloo from Namibia, who became one of Victoria's Secret's best-known faces, and Alek Wek from South Sudan, who broke ground in international fashion in the 1990s. Adut Akech, a South Sudanese-Australian model, has established herself on the international runway circuit, working with major luxury fashion houses.
Anok Yai, an Egyptian-born, South Sudanese-American model, has become one of the most recognizable faces of the new generation. Her breakthrough came after a photograph of her went viral, followed by her Prada runway debut. Yai has since appeared in major campaigns and runway shows for luxury houses, including Prada, Chanel, and Dior.
These models have not only achieved commercial success but have also expanded their careers into acting, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. Their influence extends beyond the fashion industry, inspiring a new generation of models and entrepreneurs. Key models of African origin who have made a global impact include Iman, Liya Kebede, and Candice Swanepoel.
Key points
- African models have played a significant role in transforming the global fashion industry.
- Several models of African origin have achieved significant commercial success, with earnings documented by Forbes and other established fashion-industry sources.
- These models have expanded their careers into acting, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship, further increasing their influence beyond the fashion industry.
