Yai: The Rise of a Global Fashion Supermodel
The fashion world is occasionally graced by a presence that transcends traditional modeling, turning a career into a cultural statement. Yai is one such force. From a chance encounter during a university homecoming to becoming a recognized supermodel, her trajectory represents a blend of striking beauty and historic milestones in the high-fashion industry.
Key Facts
- Discovery: Found in October 2017 by photographer Steve 'theSUNK' Hall at Howard University.
- Historic Milestone: The first Sudanese model to open a Prada fashion show.
- Agency: Signed with Next Model Management.
- Major Accolades: Named Model of the Year: Women+ by models.com (2023) and Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council (2025).
- Key Partnerships: Has worked with luxury houses including Louis Vuitton, Versace, and Mugler.
2017–2021: Discovery and Rapid Ascent
Yai's entry into the professional world was nearly accidental. In October 2017, while attending Howard University's homecoming week, she was photographed by Steve 'theSUNK' Hall. After the image garnered over 20,000 likes on Instagram, several agencies sought her representation. Yai eventually signed with Next Model Management after the agency pursued her consistently for several weeks.
Her professional debut was nothing short of historic. Only four months after signing, Yai became the first Sudanese model to open a Prada show. This achievement marked a significant moment for representation in luxury fashion; Yai noted to Vogue that opening for a top fashion house served as a statement that the beauty of Black women deserves global celebration.
Following her Prada debut, Yai quickly became a staple on the runways of the world's most prestigious brands, including Fendi, Burberry, Max Mara, Versace, and Louis Vuitton. Her versatility extended to commercial campaigns for Nike (designed by Riccardo Tisci), Tiffany & Co., and Estée Lauder, for which she became a spokes model in July 2018.
Between 2019 and 2021, Yai's editorial presence expanded globally. She appeared on the covers of numerous international editions of Vogue—including Japanese, Italian, Brazilian, German, and Dutch versions—as well as Harper's Bazaar, Elle, and i-D. Her portfolio during this era included high-profile collaborations with Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, and Hood by Air.
2022–Present: Achieving Supermodel Status
By 2022, Yai transitioned from a rising star to an established icon. She collaborated extensively with renowned photographer Steven Meisel for campaigns with Max Mara, Alexander McQueen, and Tiffany & Co. In September 2022, W magazine officially recognized her as a supermodel on its 50th-anniversary cover.
Her influence continued to grow through 2023 and 2024. She opened her first Mugler runway show and appeared in a tribute cover to Karl Lagerfeld photographed by Annie Leibovitz. Beyond the runway, Yai expanded into music and fragrance, appearing in music videos for Lil Yachty, Travis Scott, and Offset, and becoming the face of Mugler's Alien Hypersense fragrance.
Yai's contributions to the industry have been met with critical acclaim. In December 2023, she won both the Industry's vote and the Reader's Choice for Model of the Year: Women+ via models.com. Her ascent culminated in December 2025, when she was awarded Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council.
Career Summary
| Category | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Firsts | First Sudanese model to open a Prada show |
| Major Brands | Prada, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Mugler, Alexander McQueen |
| Editorial | Vogue (Multiple editions), W, Harper's Bazaar, i-D |
| Awards | Model of the Year (models.com 2023, British Fashion Council 2025) |
| Beauty/Fragrance | Estée Lauder, Mugler (Alien Hypersense) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How was Yai discovered?
Yai was discovered in October 2017 by photographer Steve 'theSUNK' Hall during homecoming week at Howard University. A photo he posted of her on Instagram went viral, attracting the attention of several modeling agencies.
Why was Yai's debut with Prada significant?
Yai was the first Sudanese model to open a Prada fashion show and the first Black model to do so in 20 years, making it a landmark moment for diversity and representation in high fashion.
When was Yai officially recognized as a supermodel?
Yai was recognized as a supermodel by W magazine on its September 2022 cover, which celebrated the publication's 50th anniversary.
What awards has Yai won?
She was named Model of the Year: Women+ by models.com in 2023 (winning both the Industry and Reader's Choice votes) and was awarded Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council in December 2025.
Has Yai worked in media outside of fashion?
Yes, Yai has appeared in several music videos, including those for American rappers Lil Yachty ("Say Something"), Travis Scott ("I KNOW?"), and Offset ("Swing My Way").