Awar Odhiang is having a remarkable year, and the fashion industry is taking notice. The South Sudanese-Canadian model has been named Model of the Year at The Fashion Awards 2026 by the British Fashion Council. Born in a refugee camp in Ethiopia to South Sudanese parents who fled the civil war, she moved to Canada with her family in 2002 and grew up in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Her journey into modelling was unexpected, having initially envisioned a career in medicine before being discovered while working at an Old Navy store in Calgary.
Odhiang’s rise in the fashion world has been marked by major runway appearances, editorial features and international campaigns. One of her most memorable moments came in October 2025 when she closed Matthieu Blazy’s debut Chanel show during Paris Fashion Week. Rather than the usual serious runway walk, she smiled, clapped and twirled in celebration before embracing the designer backstage. The spontaneous moment captured the attention of fashion audiences worldwide and introduced her to an even wider audience.
Beyond the runway, Odhiang has become an increasingly influential voice in conversations around representation and inclusion in fashion, particularly for Black models. In 2026, she has fronted campaigns for major fashion houses including Chanel, Chloé, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Loro Piana and H&M, while appearing on eight international magazine covers. Her Model of the Year recognition celebrates not only her work but also the influence she continues to have on the industry. She will officially receive the award at The Fashion Awards ceremony on November 30, 2026, at London’s Royal Albert Hall
