The 27-year-old supermodel graced the ceremony in a bespoke white and ivory satin gown by Dilara Findikoglu on Monday night (01.12.25) at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall.
In a press release, she said: “Being named Model of the Year is such an honour.
“My journey from Egypt to South Sudan and eventually to the United States has been shaped by resilience and community,” she shared. “This recognition belongs to everyone who has ever seen a piece of their story in mine. Thank you for celebrating us.”
Yai has previously spoken openly about the racism she endured “growing up dark-skinned in New Hampshire.”
In an interview with Elle, she recalled: “There was so much racism. Kids mocked me because of my skin tone. I was the quiet child in the corner, the one who didn’t speak to anyone. I never had a stable friend group — I floated from place to place, always feeling like I was on the outside looking in.”
Despite the challenges, she always dreamed beyond the limits of the small town where she grew up. Over time, she learned to embrace “being different” and found comfort in forging her own path.
Elsewhere during the ceremony, Dior took center stage as Jonathan Anderson secured the Designer of the Year award for the third consecutive year.
Delphine Arnault also received a Special Recognition honor for her “exceptional contribution” to the fashion industry and her longstanding dedication to supporting emerging talent.
The star-studded event — hosted by Colman Domingo and sponsored by Pandora — attracted high-profile guests including Sharon Stone, Gwendoline Christie, Sienna Miller, Mick Jagger, Cate Blanchett, and Rita Ora.
Other major wins of the night included British Womenswear Designer of the Year for Givenchy creative director Sarah Burton, British Menswear Designer for Grace Wales Bonner, and the Vanguard Award for Dilara Fındıkoğlu.
