Alek Wek

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

Alek Wek's career is marked by a series of historic firsts and lasting achievements. She broke barriers as the first Black model to appear on the cover of ELLE, a milestone that opened doors for greater diversity in fashion. Her 1997 CFDA Model of the Year award placed her among the industry's elite, and her 2015 inclusion in the BBC's 100 Women recognized her influence beyond the runway. As a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, she has used her platform to advocate for refugees, and her 2007 memoir remains a powerful testament to her journey. Her ability to maintain relevance for over 30 years, while staying true to herself, is a rare feat that continues to inspire.

AwardsAlek Wek has received several notable honors that underscore her influence. In 1997, she was named Model of the Year by the Council of Fashion Designers of America, a prestigious industry recognition. In 2015, she was included in the BBC's 100 Women list, celebrating her impact beyond fashion. Her appointment as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador in 2013 is another significant honor, recognizing her humanitarian contributions. These accolades reflect her dual legacy as a fashion pioneer and advocate for refugees.

Honours & Distinctions

UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador

UNHCR·2013

Appointed for her humanitarian advocacy work

BBC 100 Women

BBC·2015

Recognized as one of the world's most influential women

First Black Model on ELLE Cover

ELLE Magazine·1997

Landmark distinction in fashion history

Rankings & Lists

#100

BBC 100 Women

BBC·2015

Magazine Covers

ELLE

1997

First Black cover model

Interview Magazine

Winter 2025

I Don't Have to Run Anymore

W Magazine

September 2022

The Enduring Impact of Alek Wek

The New York Times T Magazine

June 2018

Okra Stew Recipe

Records & Feats

First Black Model on ELLE Cover

Historic First·1997

Alek Wek became the first Black model to appear on the cover of ELLE magazine, a historic moment in fashion.