Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid is a Somali supermodel, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, and one of the most influential supermodels of all time. With her striking features, flawless skin, and royal presence, she redefined beauty standards. She went from being on front pages of leading magazines to creating her own line of cosmetics. Her story is nothing short of inspirational.
Early Life and Discovery
Iman was born on July 25, 1955, in Mogadishu, Somalia, coming from a family that emphasized education. Her father, was a diplomat; her mother was a gynecologist. After completing her studies with good grades in high school, she enrolled at the University of Nairobi in Kenya to study political science. Her life was drastically altered when the great Peter Beard made the discovery of her in 1975 and changed her destiny forever.
Rise to Fame in the Fashion Industry
After she got to the United States, the world quickly became Iman’s stage—she became, almost overnight, one of the most sought-after models imaginable. Vogue spread would be her first major assignment, and the rest is history. In a few short years, under the aegis of Yves Saint Laurent, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, and Versace, she would ascend to the ranks of high fashion, becoming the darling of fashion houses. One remarkable moment was when Yves Saint Laurent pronounced her to be his “dream woman,” dedicating the African Queen collection to her. In an era when diversity in fashion was virtually unknown, a commanding presence on the runway and in print was her hallmark. SEE HERE HER PICTURES.
Breaking Barriers and Advocacy
One of the first Black women to reach supermodel status, Iman smashed glass ceilings in the fashion industry. During the 1970s and 1980s, the fashion world was a white-dominated region that accepted Eurocentric beauty as the ideal. Her presence came in and defied that notion and opened the doors for generations of diverse models to come, including Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, and Liya Kebede. Iman has always been a spokesperson for diversity in the fashion world and speaks out for inclusiveness in that industry. With her platform, she has always raised her voice against discrimination, speaking for the representation of black and African beauty.
Iman Cosmetics – Empowering Women of Colour
In1994 Iman launched Iman Cosmetics; a cosmetic line specifically developed for women of color. The reality was, there were hardly any products available for women of color prior to that instance, and Iman, having recognized that, turned around to fill the gap in the competitor beauty market. Its brand was a game-changer, bringing an extensive list of shades that celebrated diversity.
Iman Cosmetics was more than just a business success; it was a movement that stood for the empowerment of that segment of the population.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Iman, however, stands as a humanitarian with causes far beyond fashion and beauty. She worked with Save the Children, Keep a Child Alive, and the Children’s Defense Fund, focusing on education, health, and disaster relief. Iman has arguably had an influence on the fashion world and even beyond. She is a continuing source of inspiration in grace, empowerment, and timeless beauty as her legacy endures.
Conclusion
From a Somali girl with big dreams to an international fashion icon, Iman is a beautiful story of resilience and determination. As a supermodel, businesswoman, and philanthropist, she creates an enduring legacy that still defines the fashion and beauty industries. After all her influence across four decades, Iman is not just a supermodel; she is a legend in herself.
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