Ugbad Abdi, a refugee whose impressive feat of transforming from a Target cashier to a celebrated global supermodel, has revolutionized the fashion industry by steadfastly maintaining her hijab.
Her journey – a proof to resilience, faith, and cultural pride– stands as an inspirational story for aspiring models similar to her, breaking down the long-standing notion and achieving marvellous success at it too.
Ugbad Abdi’s Runway Debut and Instant Success in High Fashion
Miss Abdi’s debut on the for the Valentino Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2019 runway during Paris Fashion Week marked the beginning of her meteoric rise in the high fashion world. Her distinctive presence and unwavering commitment to her hijab immediately captured the attention of influential figures, including Vogue Magazine’s Anna Wintour, solidifying her status as a breakout star.
Ugbad Abdi’s Early Life and Religious Background
Ugbad Abdi’s story from grass to grace is rooted in her early experiences in a Kenyan refugee camp, where she spent her formative years after fleeing the Somali Civil War. The harrowing experiences inculcated in her, a profound sense of resilience and adaptability, qualities that would later serve her well in the competitive fashion industry.
As a devout Muslim, Abdi’s decision to integrate her hijab and modest attire into her modeling career has challenged the fashion industry’s rather traditional norms. This choice intentionally or unintentionally made has become a powerful way of ensuring of representation, showing that fashion can be both stylish and respectful of diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
How Ugbad Abdi Was Discovered and Her Subsequent Rise to Prominence
The Somali refugee’s journey from working at Target to becoming a globally recognized supermodel began with her creative makeup posts on Instagram. Eventually, talent scout, Lacey Hevern discovered her unique beauty and star presence. It wasn’t long before Abdi made a rapid ascent in the fashion world, marked by appearances in prestigious fashion shows and publications.
Abdi has made appearances on international runways and in high-profile fashion magazines. She has collaborated with renowned designers, proving that modern style can be inclusive, pioneering, and respectful of diverse cultural and religious expressions. In essence, her work in the fashion world has further opened doors for other models who may have been previously overlooked.
Her Advocacy and Personal Growth
Beyond her modeling career, Abdi has used her platform to educate and advocate for greater understanding, particularly regarding her hijab and Muslim identity. She has also embarked on a journey of personal growth, reconciling her past experiences as a refugee with her present success in the fashion world. This journey has given her a unique perspective, and allowed her to use her platform to inspire others like her and beyond.
Concerning further plans, Abdi is committed to giving back to the refugee community that played a pivotal role in shaping her. She also hopes to return to her roots and find meaningful ways to support those who face similar challenges.
