In recent years, South Sudan has emerged as a powerhouse of beauty in the fashion world, showcasing striking models with dark skin tones and a rich cultural background. Among them is Arop Akol, a model who has strived to achieve her dreams amid challenges linked to her homeland's struggles. Now in her early twenties, Akol has graced runways for major fashion houses in cities like London and Paris.
Akol expresses pride in the rising prominence of models from South Sudan, remarking on their high cheekbones and radiant skin that sets them apart. Indeed, a glance through fashion magazines reveals a plethora of South Sudanese names, from up-and-coming talents like Akol to established supermodels such as Anok Yai and Alek Wek, who helped pave the way in the industry.
Fashion's spotlight on South Sudanese models continues to shine brightly, as evidenced by the annual top models ranking from Models.com, where 20% of the featured talents possess South Sudanese heritage. Their distinct features and strong backgrounds resonate with fashion's evolving emphasis on diversity.
Beyond physical allure, resilience is cited as a defining characteristic of these models. Akur Goi, another talented South Sudanese model, suggests that their journeys have endowed them with the strength needed to thrive in the competitive fashion landscape. Many fled South Sudan amid turmoil and uncertainty, yet their experiences have become a source of inspiration and empowerment.
While the opportunities are plentiful, the path is not without tribulations. Several South Sudanese models have faced exploitation from agencies, struggling to navigate a complicated web of fees and contracts. Arop echoed similar sentiments, recalling how she was once asked to pay unexpected fees just to pursue her dream.
Cultural perceptions also pose hurdles, with some families still skeptical of modelling. Yet, as success stories begin to emerge, attitudes are shifting, with some models even becoming the breadwinners for their families.
The momentum for South Sudanese models doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon; their presence highlights an ongoing demand for authenticity and diversity in fashion. As Arop Akol puts it: "We are going to go a long way." The representation from South Sudan brings a fresh narrative to the global fashion story, amplifying voices and showcasing beauty that belongs to a nation rich in culture and resilience.
Akol expresses pride in the rising prominence of models from South Sudan, remarking on their high cheekbones and radiant skin that sets them apart. Indeed, a glance through fashion magazines reveals a plethora of South Sudanese names, from up-and-coming talents like Akol to established supermodels such as Anok Yai and Alek Wek, who helped pave the way in the industry.
Fashion's spotlight on South Sudanese models continues to shine brightly, as evidenced by the annual top models ranking from Models.com, where 20% of the featured talents possess South Sudanese heritage. Their distinct features and strong backgrounds resonate with fashion's evolving emphasis on diversity.
Beyond physical allure, resilience is cited as a defining characteristic of these models. Akur Goi, another talented South Sudanese model, suggests that their journeys have endowed them with the strength needed to thrive in the competitive fashion landscape. Many fled South Sudan amid turmoil and uncertainty, yet their experiences have become a source of inspiration and empowerment.
While the opportunities are plentiful, the path is not without tribulations. Several South Sudanese models have faced exploitation from agencies, struggling to navigate a complicated web of fees and contracts. Arop echoed similar sentiments, recalling how she was once asked to pay unexpected fees just to pursue her dream.
Cultural perceptions also pose hurdles, with some families still skeptical of modelling. Yet, as success stories begin to emerge, attitudes are shifting, with some models even becoming the breadwinners for their families.
The momentum for South Sudanese models doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon; their presence highlights an ongoing demand for authenticity and diversity in fashion. As Arop Akol puts it: "We are going to go a long way." The representation from South Sudan brings a fresh narrative to the global fashion story, amplifying voices and showcasing beauty that belongs to a nation rich in culture and resilience.
