Anok Yai stuns on the red carpet as she accepts Model of the Year at 2025 Fashion Awards

Anok Yai has been named Model of the Year at the 2025 Fashion Awards, held at London’s Royal Albert Hall on December 1. The ceremony, presented by the British Fashion Council and Pandora, recognises the global influence of models whose impact has shaped the industry over the past year.

In a statement shared in the event’s press release, Yai reflected on the significance of the award. “Being named Model of the Year is such an honor. My journey – from Egypt to South Sudan to the U.S. – is one of resilience and community. This recognition is for everyone who’s ever seen their story in mine. Thank you for celebrating us.”

Yai arrived on the red carpet wearing a white and ivory satin corset-style gown by Dilara Findikoglu, featuring a mermaid silhouette, draped skirt and ruffled train. She paired the look with drop earrings and a blunt bob hairstyle with bangs.

This year’s win follows nominations in both 2023 and 2024. At the 2024 ceremony, the award went to Alex Consani, who became the first transgender model to receive the title. After that event, Yai publicly congratulated Consani while expressing her own exhaustion, prompting speculation among fans about tension between the two.

Both models have since addressed the rumours, with Yai telling Allure that the experience “brought us closer.” Consani also spoke about being “upset” by racist comments directed at Yai online, highlighting the mistreatment faced by many dark-skinned models in the industry.

Yai has previously discussed her childhood in New Hampshire, describing experiences of racism and isolation. She said her ambition helped her “feel comfortable with my separation from my peers” and motivated her path into modelling.

Yai and Consani were nominated alongside Alva Claire, Amelia Gray, Liu Wen and Mona Tougaard. Yai’s victory marks a milestone in a career she says has been driven by resilience and community.