Hello Tigers, I’m Zoey, and I’m excited to share insights about a unique aspect of the modeling industry. I’m focusing on ethnic models, particularly those with dark skin tones, sexual differences, and distinct ethnic backgrounds. Without further ado, let’s get started!

 Anok Yai, a stunning dark-skinned model hailing from Egypt, has made history as the first Black model to walk the runway for Prada since 1997. With an impressive portfolio, she has graced the pages of prestigious publications such as British Vogue and Dazed Magazine and has secured a contract with Estée Lauder. Yai, who is of Egyptian and Sudanese descent, began her modeling career in 2018 after being discovered at a University party. Since then, her career has skyrocketed with numerous campaigns and collaborations with well-known brands and magazines. In a recent interview with Vogue, she emphasized her role as an inspiration to many dark-skinned girls, paving the way for a more inclusive future in the fashion industry. “Me opening for one of the top fashion houses is a statement to the world, especially for black women, their beauty is something that deserves to be celebrated”.

Valentine Alvarez, a non-binary fashion model hailing from Mexico, is gaining recognition for their unique appearance and cutting-edge style. Emerging as a symbol of diversity and inclusivity within the global fashion industry, Alvarez was discovered after choosing to submit digital applications to various modeling agencies. This daring step led to their first collaboration with VISION Los Angeles, catapulting them into the international spotlight. Their career experienced a significant turnaround after they participated in the Savage x Fenty show, which showcased their exceptional talent to a wider audience. Since then, Alvarez has graced the runways of renowned designers, including Marc Jacobs. Beyond their professional achievements, Alvarez remains an advocate for brown and nonconforming individuals, using their platform to uplift and represent different communities.

Imaan Hammam, an enchanting Afro-Arab Dutch model with roots in the Netherlands and Egypt, stands tall at 5 ’10” at just 28 years old. Hammam has been making waves in the fashion world since 2017. She was discovered at the age of 13 at Amsterdam Central Station. Her remarkable career took off when she made her Fashion Week debut by opening the Givenchy Spring/Summer 2014 show in Paris, France. Since then, Hammam has graced the campaigns of renowned brands including Céline, Coach, Maison Margiela, H&M, and Topshop. She has also appeared in eight editions of Vogue, with her first feature in American Vogue, under the watchful eye of the iconic Anna Wintour. A passionate advocate for diversity in the modeling industry, Hammam leverages her substantial social media presence to promote inclusivity and representation. “I want to be a role model for young girls who are struggling with racism or their appearance . “There aren’t many Arabic models and being a Afro Arabic model I’m trying to open doors for more Arabic girls.”

Ethiopian beauty Amar Akway has made a striking entrance into the fashion world. The 19-year-old rising star has graced the runways of prestigious brands including Givenchy, Valentino, Dries Van Noten, and Schiaparelli. Hailing from Gambella, Ethiopia, Akway was initially a member of the national Ethiopian athletic Tartan Track team before her talent was discovered by fellow Ethiopian model Mekdelawit. Her journey continued when Mekdelawit’s Mother agent introduced her to the fashion scene, leading to her appearance in Lanvin’s Spring/Summer 2020 show. Passionate about sharing her culture, Akway proudly represents the beauty of diverse black identities. She expressed her commitment to showcasing her heritage through her work stating, “If I had to give advice to anyone looking to pursue modeling, I’d tell them to always be strong, always be yourself, and always be kind to people.”

Cherokee Jack, an Indigenous model renowned for his commitment to environmental advocacy, mutual aid, and food sovereignty, is also a proponent of health and wellness. Hailing from South Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jack has lent his talents to a variety of campaigns, working with prominent brands such as GAP, COS, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Frame. His work has garnered attention in prestigious publications like Esquire, T- Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and Elle.

Recognizable by his long hair, Jack is a proud member of the Aniyunwiya Nation, also known as the Cherokee people, which means “real people.” The Cherokee Nation is the largest Native American group in the United States and celebrated for its rich language, spirituality, culinary traditions, storytelling, and artistic expressions. Through his social media platforms, Jack frequently shares insights into nature and the beauty of cultural diversity.

At the age of 21, Haatepah Clearbear made the bold decision to leave his hometown of Pacifica, a tranquil coastal suburb of San Francisco, to pursue his dream of becoming a model in Los Angeles. With a handful of successful modeling gigs under his belt in the Bay Area, he was encouraged by casting director Daniel Peddle to aim for larger opportunities in Southern California. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he found himself homeless shortly after arriving in LA. Despite this setback, Haatepah persevered and eventually landed high-profile campaigns with major brands like Nike and Uniqlo and worked with renowned fashion photographer Damon Baker. He also secured a contract with Storm Management, the same agency that launched the career of supermodel Kate Moss. Amidst his rise to fame, Haatepah has remained dedicated to advocating for Native communities. “A lot of people have been taught for hundreds of years to hate themselves for being indigenous,” he explained. “I feel like it’s important that people reclaim who they are”. Drawing from his own experiences with racism, both as a child and within his home, he has taken an active role in uplifting Native voices through various organizations. Together with his brother, he co-founded the Indigenous Alliance Movement, striving to bring positive change and representation to their communities .

In conclusion, it’s clear that embracing difference is not only beneficial in the world of modeling but also in our daily lives. Every person possesses unique traits, whether it’s hair texture, eye color, body type, or personal preferences and interests that contribute to their individuality. These distinct qualities make everyone different, and, most importantly, they make you who you are. So, let’s celebrate our differences and pursue our passions with confidence. Happy Spring Break, Tigers!

REFERENCES

Amar Akway. (n.d.). Premier Model Management. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://www.premiermodelmanagement.com/women/image/4947-amar-akway/

Basha, N. (2021, August 11). Indigenous model helping others connect with their roots. Spectrum News. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/southern-california/human-interest/2021/08/11/indigenous-model-helping-others-connect-with-roots 

The Fashionography. (n.d.). Valentine Alvarez. Valentine Alvarez. https://thefashionography.com/a/fashion-models/valentine-alvarez/ 

Herh, K. (2023, August 25). V144: Day & Night Featuring The Amar Akway. V Magazine. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://vmagazine.com/article/v144-day-night-featuring-the-amar-akway/ 

KinFolk. (n.d.). Haatepah Clearbear. Haatepah Clearbear. https://www.kinfolk.com/stories/haatepah-clearbear/ 

Portee, A. (2021, March 18). Born A Refugee, Anok Yai Is Breaking Barriers As One Of Fashion’s Most Sought-After Models. Forbes. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/allysonportee/2021/03/18/born-as-a-refugee-anok-yai-is-one-of-fashions-most-sought-after-models-whos-breaking-barriers/ 

Portfolio Print Instagram. (n.d.). Cherokee Jack. https://fordmodels.com/barcelona/profile/cherokee-jack/?board=men 

Reynolds, M., & Vinoodh, I. &. (2023, July 14). How model Cherokee Jack is staying true to his Aniyunwiya roots. Wallpaper Magazine. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://www.wallpaper.com/fashion-beauty/how-model-cherokee-jack-is-staying-true-to-his-aniyunwiya-roots 

VISION. (n.d.). VALENTINE. vision los angeles. https://www.visionlosangeles.com/them/all/1706576/valentine#portfolio 

Allaire, C. (2020, April 21). How This Indigenous Model Is Using His Platform for Climate Activism. Vogue. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://www.vogue.com/article/haatepah-clearbear-indigenous-model-activism 

Allaire, C. (2020, April 21). How This Indigenous Model Is Using His Platform for Climate Activism. Vogue. Retrieved March 10, 2025, from https://www.vogue.com/article/haatepah-clearbear-indigenous-model-activism