The Rise of South Sudanese Models in the Global Fashion Scene**

As South Sudanese models gain prominence in fashion, they are breaking barriers and redefining beauty standards while coping with their homeland's turbulent history.**

 

In recent years, the fashion industry has witnessed a significant surge in the prominence of South Sudanese models, with many emerging as favorites in the competitive realm of high fashion. Arop Akol, one such model, has made waves on prestigious runways in cities like London and Paris. At just in her early twenties, Akol's journey began when she was scouted by a modeling agency after years of admiration for the fashion world from her youth.

"South Sudanese people have become very well known for their beauty," Akol asserts, a sentiment echoed by numerous industry insiders as models from her home country continue to shine. South Sudan, rich in biodiversity but marred by civil strife, has birthed a host of stunning talents in the modeling arena, including not only Akol but also superstars such as Anok Yai, Adut Akech, and Alek Wek—all of whom boast striking features that have become synonymous with success in the industry.

The demand for South Sudanese models has been underscored by the fashion platform Models.com, which highlighted that approximately twenty percent of their top-fifty 'future stars' list comprises models from South Sudan. Additionally, a recent Vogue feature touted the emergence of four South Sudanese models likely to dominate fashion runways by 2025, showcasing the growing influence they hold.

Casting agents like Lucia Janosova recognize the allure of South Sudanese beauty, attributing the models' popularity to their striking dark skin and impressive stature. However, questions linger regarding why brands gravitate more towards South Sudanese models as opposed to equally qualified candidates from other nations.

Akur Goi, another successful South Sudanese model, suggests that it is not just physical beauty that sets these models apart, but also their resilience. Many have faced adversity, having fled their war-torn home country to pursue their dreams abroad. The journey hasn’t always been smooth; some models report exploitative practices by agencies that burden them with excessive fees.

Akol herself encountered early challenges when she was initially scouted, expressing feelings of being exploited by an agency that requested exorbitant upfront payments. Her breakthrough came when she was discovered by a reputable agency, propelling her quickly into the international limelight.

Despite the hurdles, perceptions of modeling in South Sudan are evolving, with a growing acceptance of this career choice among urban families, who once associated it with negative connotations. With the industry's continued shift towards inclusivity and diversity, both Akol and her peers believe the future of South Sudanese models in fashion is secure and promising.

As Akol contemplates her journey, she is optimistic about the future, stating, "South Sudanese models are going to go a long way." With their unique narratives and diverse representation, South Sudanese models are undoubtedly leaving their mark on the global fashion landscape, proving that beauty and resilience can thrive even amidst the most challenging circumstances.