ANOK YAI

Anok Yai: A Comprehensive Profile of the Sudanese-American Supermodel

Early Life and Background

Anok Yai was born on December 20, 1997, in Cairo, Egypt, to South Sudanese parents who fled their homeland due to conflict. At the age of three, her family relocated to Manchester, New Hampshire, USA. Her mother is a nurse, and her father works for Easterseals, a nonprofit organization. Anok has a sister named Alim, who serves as her manager and financial consultant. She graduated from Manchester High School West and pursued biochemistry at Plymouth State University with aspirations of becoming a doctor. 

Discovery and Rise to Fame

In October 2017, while attending Howard University's homecoming event, Anok was photographed by a professional photographer. The image went viral on Instagram, amassing over 20,000 likes, and caught the attention of several modeling agencies. She eventually signed with Next Model Management. Just four months later, Anok made history by becoming the first South Sudanese model and the second Black model after Naomi Campbell to open a Prada runway show. ​

Modeling Career

Anok's career rapidly ascended as she graced the covers of international editions of Vogue, including American Vogue three times, and appeared in campaigns for brands like Estée Lauder, Prada, and Nike. In July 2018, she became a spokesperson for Estée Lauder, representing their expanded 56-shade foundation line. Her runway presence includes shows for Hermès, Chanel, Mugler, Versace, and Tom Ford. ​

Personal Challenges and Advocacy

Growing up in a predominantly white community, Anok faced racism and social anxiety. She has spoken openly about these experiences, emphasizing her journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment. Anok is known for standing up against industry norms that don't align with her identity, such as insisting on hairstyles that respect her natural hair. ​

Artistic Pursuits

Beyond modeling, Anok explores visual arts. She completed a residency at Black Rock Senegal, where she focused on painting, drawing inspiration from her modeling experiences to inform her art. ​

Recognition and Impact

In 2023, Models.com ranked Anok among the "New Supers," acknowledging her significant influence in the fashion industry. Her journey from a biochemistry student to a supermodel serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in fashion.

Anok Yai continues to break barriers and redefine beauty standards, using her platform to advocate for inclusivity and authenticity in the fashion world.