London, Wednesday 4th November 2026 - The British Fashion Council (BFC) is pleased to announce that Awar Odhiang will be honoured as the Model of the Year at The Fashion Awards 2026. This award recognises a model whose global impact has defined the industry over the last year, with an outstanding contribution to the fashion industry and an influence that extends beyond the catwalk. The ceremony will take place on Monday 30th November 2026 at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
Born in a refugee camp in Ethiopia and raised in Canada, Awar Odhiang's distinctive presence and expressive energy have made her one of fashion’s defining faces of 2026. Since closing Matthieu Blazy’s debut at Chanel, Odhiang has been central to some of the most standout fashion moments from the last year. Odhiang’s influence spans catwalk, editorial and campaigns, with 8 international magazine covers this year while also fronting campaigns for Chanel, Chloé, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Loro Piana and H&M.
Beyond her work in front of the camera, Odhiang has used her growing platform to champion greater representation and inclusion for Black models, speaking openly about the barriers that persist within the industry. Her visibility has also become a source of inspiration for young women, reinforcing the importance of seeing a broader range of identities represented in fashion.
Awar Odhiang, Model of the Year: “To be recognised as Model of the Year is an incredible honour. I have always believed that you can be both kind and strong, both gentle and resilient. You never have to dim your light to belong, nor lose your softness to prove your strength. I hope my journey continues to remind others of that. I am deeply grateful for this moment and for all that it represents. Thank you to those who have believed in me, and appreciated me for exactly who I am.”
Laura Weir, Chief Executive, British Fashion Council: “Awar has brought a truly special energy to fashion this year, reminding us that the industry is at its best when individuality, authenticity and joy are celebrated. Watching her journey has been incredibly inspiring, not only because of her impact on the industry, but because of the positivity and confidence she brings to her work. She represents the power of fashion to inspire, connect and create meaningful change. I'd like to thank the nominating panel, we’re delighted to celebrate Awar as Model of the Year at The Fashion Awards and look forward to seeing all that Awar will continue to achieve in the years to come.”
Anita Bitton, Casting Director and Chair of the Model of the Year Jury: “Watching Awar find her voice and grow into a talent that became undeniable in 2026 has brought joy to so many of us. She earned this recognition through hard work and commitment. She understood the assignment and rose to it, without losing the joy and curiosity that brought her here. Thank you to the voting panel for your time, thoughtful discussion, careful consideration, and overwhelming enthusiasm. You inspire me daily. It's a privilege to share this moment with you all. And Awar, it's been a pleasure to be part of your journey. We're thrilled for you, and looking forward to everything still to come.”
The Model of the Year Award was evaluated by a panel of key industry experts, comprising: Anita Bitton, Casting Director, Campbell Addy, Artist & Photographer, Carlos Nazario, Stylist and Editor-in-Chief, Edward Buchanan, Creative Director & Cultural Advocate, Emma Matell, Casting Director, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, Stylist, Jess Hallett, Casting Director, Julia Sarr-Jamois, Stylist & Consultant, Kacion Mayers, Editorial Director, Lynette Nylander, Executive Digital Director, Madeleine Østlie, Casting Director, Nell Kalonji, Stylist & Consultant, Pat Boguslawski, Movement Director and Rosie Vogel, Casting Director.
The Fashion Awards is the world’s biggest fashion fundraiser and a defining global moment for British fashion, championing the cultural power of fashion and spotlighting the creative voices shaping the industry today. It reflects fashion’s dynamic intersection with music, film, sport and performance. The event enables the British Fashion Council to continue to support, defend and promote British fashion globally, supporting designers and businesses to build creative and commercial resilience.
The BFC thanks Presenting Partner Pandora and Official Partners Johnnie Walker and The Peninsula London whose commitment makes TFA possible. For information on ticket sales, please visit here. For Table and Box enquiries, please email adam.mace@britishfashioncouncil.com.
*Cover image/Photograph by Adam Peter Johnson for Isabel Marant