If you’re unfamiliar with the name Anok Yai, you won’t be for long. The Egyptian-born, American model has been signed by Estée Lauder to be their global spokesmodel. Estée Lauder has been known to sign some big names such as Joan Smalls and Karlie Kloss, so it’s no surprise they locked down the gorgeous 20-year-old model.
"To be a woman of color representing an iconic brand that has continuously been at the forefront of beauty, is an honor, I hope to be an inspiration to young girls and women and encourage them to feel undeniably beautiful," said Yai to Elle about being signed.
Being a global spokesmodel isn’t the only reason Yai has made headlines — she’s also the first black model to open up for Prada’s show during Fashion Week in 20 years. The first and only other black model to do so was the queen Naomi Campbell herself.
Naomi was an inspiration to all of us, Yai included, so it was nothing short of an honor for Yai to follow in her footsteps:
"I didn’t even realize that I was only the second black woman until after I walked and I was interviewed about it after the show," she said. "It was an honor to have been a part of history — and to know the first was Naomi made me so happy — but I am also happy I made it down the runway without falling!"
Estée Lauder has continued to diversify their brand. Recently, they expanded their foundation range to 61 shades and that's great news for all women of color. As a darker skinned woman, Yai has always had issues finding her shade in makeup, but Estée Lauder has made it possible for her to find a couple that suit her skin. As Yai puts it, "Black is a very broad spectrum!"
As Naomi and Joan provided Yai with inspiration and hope, we hope that seeing Anok Yai’s face around the higher-end beauty isles grants young women and girls the same.
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