Iman’s rise to international stardom

Born in Mogadishu, Somalia, Iman Abdulmajid was discovered by photographer Peter Beard while studying political science at university. Her striking beauty, regal bearing, and poise quickly captured the attention of the global fashion industry. In the mid-1970s, she moved to the United States, where she broke into the modelling world at a time when diversity on the runway was rare. Her debut in American Vogue marked a turning point, propelling her into the spotlight and establishing her as one of the first Black supermodels to achieve international fame.

Throughout the late 70s and 80s, Iman became a muse for legendary designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Gianni Versace, and Calvin Klein. Her ability to embody elegance and sophistication redefined traditional beauty standards, challenging the industry’s Eurocentric ideals. She graced the covers of major fashion magazines, walked the most prestigious runways, and appeared in high-profile campaigns, becoming a household name across continents, including Australia, where her influence resonated strongly within the local fashion scene.

Iman’s rise was not just about her physical presence; her intelligence, multilingual skills, and strong sense of identity set her apart in an industry often criticised for its superficiality. She navigated the fashion world with a rare combination of grace and assertiveness, laying the groundwork for future generations of models of colour to follow in her footsteps.

Championing diversity and inclusion in fashion

As Iman’s career flourished, she used her platform to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion within the fashion industry. At a time when models of colour were often relegated to the sidelines, she boldly challenged the status quo, speaking openly about the systemic barriers that limited opportunities for non-white talent. Iman refused to be typecast or tokenised, insisting on being recognised for her artistry and professionalism rather than being confined by racial stereotypes.

Her influence extended beyond the runway; Iman became a vocal critic of the lack of representation in beauty products, highlighting how mainstream brands often overlooked the needs of women with darker skin tones. This advocacy resonated globally, including in Australia, where conversations around representation and inclusivity in fashion were beginning to gain momentum. Her stance inspired both emerging models and established designers to rethink how they approached diversity within their work.

Iman’s commitment to change was not limited to words. She actively collaborated with brands to push for more inclusive casting and was instrumental in opening doors for other models of colour. Her impact was felt not only in traditional fashion capitals like Paris and New York but also in markets like Sydney and Melbourne, where her presence helped shift perceptions and broaden the definition of beauty.

Through interviews, public appearances, and her own entrepreneurial ventures, Iman consistently championed the importance of authentic representation. She understood that true inclusivity went beyond token gestures and required systemic change, a message that continues to influence the Australian fashion industry today. Her legacy in this area is a testament to her vision, resilience, and unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable and vibrant fashion world.

Building a legacy beyond the runway

After decades of redefining beauty standards and advocating for inclusivity, Iman transitioned seamlessly from supermodel to entrepreneur and philanthropist, building a legacy that extends well beyond the runway. In 1994, she launched Iman Cosmetics, a groundbreaking beauty brand specifically designed for women of colour. At a time when the mainstream beauty industry largely neglected diverse skin tones, her brand filled a glaring void, offering a wide range of shades and products that celebrated the richness of global beauty. This bold move not only empowered countless women but also set a precedent for future brands to embrace diversity authentically.

Iman’s entrepreneurial spirit resonated strongly with audiences worldwide, including in Australia, where beauty consumers were increasingly seeking products that reflected the country’s multicultural identity. Her success demonstrated that there was both a need and a market for inclusive beauty, inspiring a new generation of Australian entrepreneurs and beauty brands to prioritise representation and accessibility.

Beyond business, Iman has dedicated herself to humanitarian efforts, supporting causes related to education, health, and refugee rights. As a former refugee herself, she has worked closely with organisations such as the Children’s Defence Fund and Keep a Child Alive, using her platform to advocate for marginalised communities. Her philanthropic work reflects a deep commitment to giving back and creating opportunities for others, embodying values that resonate strongly with Australian audiences who value fairness, community, and social responsibility.

Throughout her career, Iman has remained a powerful role model, showing that success is not solely defined by personal achievement but by the positive impact one leaves on the world. Her journey from the catwalks of Paris and New York to boardrooms and charitable initiatives offers a blueprint for how influence can be wielded for meaningful change. In Australia and beyond, her story continues to inspire those who believe in using their talents and platforms to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Iman’s impact on fashion and representation

When Iman first stepped onto the global stage in the 1970s, the fashion world had rarely seen a model with her striking East African features and regal presence. Born in Somalia, she quickly became a muse for legendary designers like Yves Saint Laurent, Gianni Versace, and Calvin Klein, who were captivated by her elegance and strength.

Iman’s arrival marked a pivotal shift in the industry’s perception of beauty. At a time when diversity on the runway was scarce, she broke barriers, challenging the Eurocentric standards that had long dominated fashion. Her presence was not just symbolic; it was revolutionary. Designers began to rethink casting choices, and the industry slowly opened its doors to a broader spectrum of models from different ethnic backgrounds.

“My looks were exoticised at first, but I turned that into a strength,” Iman has reflected in interviews, highlighting her role in redefining beauty standards globally.

Throughout her career, Iman didn’t just represent a shift in who could be seen on magazine covers and catwalks — she became an advocate for authentic representation. She used her platform to call out tokenism and insisted on meaningful inclusion, paving the way for future generations of models of colour to walk with pride and power.

• First major Somali model to achieve international fame
• Worked with iconic photographers like Richard Avedon and Irving Penn
• Appeared on covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle
• Credited with inspiring the creation of Yves Saint Laurent’s “African Queen” collection

Iman’s legacy in fashion is not just about her stunning portfolio; it’s about the doors she opened and the conversations she ignited — conversations that continue to shape the industry today, especially here in Australia where diversity on the runway is an ever-evolving dialogue.

Building a beauty empire and inspiring future generations

After conquering the world of fashion, Iman turned her attention to an industry where women of colour were still being overlooked: beauty. In 1994, she launched Iman Cosmetics, a groundbreaking brand specifically designed for women with skin tones that were often ignored by mainstream companies. At a time when the beauty shelves were overwhelmingly beige, Iman’s range offered rich, nuanced shades that truly celebrated diversity.

Her entrepreneurial move was not just about filling a gap; it was about empowerment. Iman recognised that beauty is deeply personal and political, and she used her platform to advocate for inclusivity long before it became a buzzword. Her brand resonated globally, including here in Australia, where women of diverse backgrounds found representation and products that genuinely catered to their needs.

“I didn’t create a cosmetics line for Black women—I created it for all women of colour,” Iman has famously said, underscoring her vision of beauty that transcends boundaries.

Beyond cosmetics, Iman’s influence extends into mentorship and philanthropy. She has consistently championed young talent, particularly models and entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities, encouraging them to own their narratives and build their own empires. Her work with organisations like CARE and her advocacy for refugee rights reflect her commitment to lifting others as she rises.

• Founded Iman Cosmetics in 1994 with 16 foundation shades for women of colour
• Expanded into skincare and fragrance, creating a full lifestyle brand
• Recognised with the CFDA Fashion Icon Award in 2010
• Active supporter of global humanitarian causes, including children’s rights and refugee support

Iman’s beauty empire has not only redefined industry standards but has also inspired a new generation of Australian beauty entrepreneurs to think inclusively and globally. Her journey reminds us that true beauty lies in authenticity, resilience, and the courage to innovate.