Sudanese-Australian model and activist Adut Akech is now the global beauty ambassador for multinational company, Estée Lauder.
The 21-year-old Akech spent her early years in a UN refugee camp in Kenya, before moving to Adelaide at seven years old. It was in Adelaide that she was scouted as a model. Since, her career has gone from strength to strength.
This is Akech’s first big beauty role, putting her alongside famous faces including Karlie Kloss, Ana de Armas, Grace Elizabeth, and Carolyn Murphy. She has previously featured in shows for Alexander McQueen, Calvin Klein, Prada and Miu Miu.
Speaking to Vogue about her experiences in the modelling world and the lack of diversity and representation for people of colour, Akech said,
“Our hair doesn’t need heat and everyone started straightening my hair. So I shaved my head—I went bald,
“Now, I know to say, ‘No, this is not the right shade for my skin tone,’ or ‘No, this does not work with my hair.’ I want new faces to be vocal about this stuff, too. That’s one thing I want to see change.”
Notably, Akech has previously worked with the United Nations to help with refugee issues worldwide. On the new role at Estée Lauder, Akech said,
“I was nervous, but everyone was just so welcoming and nice. I feel very proud that I’m now a part of an awesome, very welcoming family. It’s a great moment for me to show the world more of who I am.”
Source: Vogue
She will be featured from July in the company’s makeup and skincare campaigns across all platforms.
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