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Halima Aden: Challenging supermodel stereotypes

Halima Aden is a refugee turned supermodel who challenges a host of stereotypes. Top models are deemed to have a look that attracts and sells. But how diverse is that look?

The designer catwalk and the glossy magazine cover are powerful cultural signifiers. Top models who occupy those spaces are deemed to have a look that attracts and sells. But how diverse is that look? How inclusive? Stephen Sackur interviews Halima Aden, a supermodel who challenged a host of stereotypes. She is a refugee from Somalia’s civil war; she’s Muslim and follows a modest dress code. Hers has been an extraordinary journey to international fame and fortune - how has it changed her?

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23 minutes

Last on

Wed 8 Jul 202021:06GMT
BBC World Service

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Image credit

Halima Aden on the catwalk during the Tommy Hilfiger show at the London Fashion Week February 2020 show at Tate Modern in London (Credit: Isabel Infantes/PA Wire)

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  • Wed 19 Feb 202020:06GMT
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  • Wed 8 Jul 202007:06GMT
    BBC World Service
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    BBC World Service East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa only
  • Wed 8 Jul 202015:06GMT
    BBC World Service except East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa
  • Wed 8 Jul 202021:06GMT
    BBC World Service

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