Alek Wek – A Profile of the Supermodel and Activist

Introduction

Alek Wek is not only one of the most successful supermodels in the world, but also one of the most influential activists for equality and diversity in the fashion industry. Her unique look has shattered traditional beauty standards and paved the way for a more inclusive and representative fashion industry. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Alek Wek, her career as a supermodel, and her activism.

Career as a Supermodel

Alek Wek was born in South Sudan in 1977 and was forced to flee to London with her family due to civil war when she was just a teenager. In London, she was discovered by a model agency and started her modeling career.

Since then, she has graced the covers of magazines like Elle, Vogue, and Harper’s Bazaar, and walked the runway for some of the biggest names in fashion, such as Chanel, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent.

But what sets Alek Wek apart from other supermodels is her unique look. She has been praised for challenging traditional beauty standards and showing that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Her dark skin, shaved head, and strong features have made her a trailblazer in an industry that has historically favored lighter skin and more Eurocentric features.

Alek Wek’s Activism

In addition to her successful modeling career, Alek Wek has been a vocal activist for equality and diversity in the fashion industry. She has spoken out about the lack of diversity in the industry and has used her platform to call for change.

Recently, she was appointed as the UNHCR’s Goodwill Ambassador, where she advocates for the rights of refugees and displaced communities around the world. In this role, she has visited refugee camps in places like South Sudan and Uganda, bringing attention to the plight of those affected by war and displacement.

Statistics on Alek Wek

  • Alek Wek was born on April 16, 1977, in Wau, South Sudan
  • She stands at 5’11”
  • She has been featured on the cover of over a dozen magazines, including Elle, Vogue, and Harper’s Bazaar
  • She was named “Model of the Decade” by i-D magazine in 2000
  • She has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNHCR since 2013

External References

To learn more about Alek Wek and her activism, check out these external references:

Alek Wek’s page on UNHCR.org
BBC News article on Alek Wek
Vogue article on Alek Wek

Conclusion

Alek Wek’s impact on the fashion industry and activism for equality and diversity cannot be overstated. She has shown that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and has used her platform to call for change. Her work as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNHCR has brought attention to the struggles of refugees and displaced communities around the world. Alek Wek is not only a supermodel, but also an inspiration and role model for many.

  • Biography.com’s page on Alek Wek
  • Vogue India’s interview with Alek Wek
  • The Guardian’s fashion page on Alek Wek
  • Alek Wek’s TED talk on beauty and diversity
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