Black models have long elevated the fashion industry with their striking beauty and flawless cat walks. Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks, standing tall amongst the elite supermodels of the world, were some of the icons that worked to inspire the next generation of fashion models to grace the covers of magazines and runways throughout the world.

From all over the globe, models work to make their mark, continuously showing themselves and their talents indispensable within the industry. Despite what it may look like to distant spectators, success in this cut-throat industry doesn’t happen overnight – at least not all of it! Let’s take a look at 4 Black models who are killing the game in 2021, and how they got to where we see them now.

Precious Lee made waves as the first Black curve model to be featured in American Vogue and to appear in the famous Sports Illustrated swim issue. In her already historic career, Lee has incited real change within the fashion industry, and continues to pave the way for more.

In 2020, the model spiraled even further into the spotlight. Alongside curve models Jill Kortleve and Alva Claire, Lee made even more history – the trio consisted of the first ever curve models to walk for Versace. The moment was eternalized in headlines and endless social media posts, praising the models for their killer looks and priceless contribution to the transformation of the fashion industry.

Years of hardwork and fearless devotion to her career made Precious Lee the iconic model that we can see today, though this was not always her only dream. Ever since her middle school years, Lee pictured a career in law, hoping to work in advocacy. While her professional goals today might look different than before, the advocacy aspect has certainly accompanied her throughout her years in front of the cameras.

With every new photo or runway walk, Precious continues to add milestones to her revolutionary career, working to change the perception of beauty that has made so many deserving models hostage before.

The model’s recent appearances in Vogue Arabia and Vogue Brasil make it clear she has no plans of slowing down.

Ajok Madel’s proactive approach to her career had effective results. When she was only 18 years old, she emailed photos of herself to an agency in Perth, and was called in for a meeting the next morning. The South Sudanese model, raised in Australia, emerged quickly in the fashion scene after singing her first contract.

By the age of 19, Madel had worked in various cities and walked multiple shows for the Spring 2020 season, calling some well-deserved attention to her nam

Ever since then, the model’s career has been full of the highlights aspiring models dream of. The now 21-year-old has made her mark in large New York City billboards and in international campaigns for exclusive luxury brands like Mugler.

In 2015, Aamito Lagum went on to win Africa’s Next Top Model – the reality show with versions around the globe that propelled the model into the fashion industry. After she was crowned champion, Lagum went on to embark on a real-life modeling career, perhaps amongst the most successful in the history of the franchise.

Like model Precious Lee, Lagum also found herself headed towards law school, though not entirely out of her own will. In an interview with i-D following her victory in the television show, Aamito explained how a modeling career was not an ideal or admirable profession in the eyes of her community. Her inclination to sign up for the show at all took courage and a long-winded fight with deeply-rooted communal values.

Despite challenges, Lagum persisted, and it has continued to pay off throughout her time in the industry. The model has graced numerous magazine covers and campaigns over the years.

In their already accomplishment-filled careers, these models have been able to find professional fulfillment and inspire young Black girls and emerging models.

As we witness and reflect the growth of this powerful generation, we celebrate as these models take their rightful place in the spotlight, break barriers, and continue to establish powerful precedents. Their work and talent signifies more than flawless photos or epic moments in a runway show – it’s about continuing to pave the way for all of the good things still to come. We can’t wait to see where they go next!