Sudanese-Australian model and refugee to appear on cover of Meghan Markle-edited issue of Vogue

Adut Akech, a South Sudanese-Australian model and refugee, will grace British Vogue’s “Force for Change” issue next month.

Adut Akech (L) will appear on the cover an edition of British Vogue magazine guest edited by the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan.

Adut Akech (L) will appear on the cover an edition of British Vogue magazine guest edited by the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan. Source: Instagram

South Sudanese-Australian model Adut Akech is among 14 "trailblazing changemakers" who will appear on the cover a special edition of British Vogue magazine, guest edited by the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan.

Meghan has spent the past seven months curating the 2019 September issue of the magazine, titled "Forces for Change".

The cover features women, chosen by Meghan and British Vogue editor-in chief Edward Enninful, who are "reshaping public life for global good".

"The Duchess chose a diverse selection of women from all walks of life, each driving impact and raising the bar for equality, kindness, justice and open mindedness," said a post on the official Instagram account of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Ms Akech was born in South Sudan, and was raised in Kenya until the age of seven. At that time, the now-19-year-old and her family began a journey to Australia as refugees.

They settled in Adelaide, where Ms Akech began modelling in high school.

Since then, she has walked the runway for fashion giants Christian Dior, Burberry, and Prada. She was also named one of TIME Magazine’s Most Influential Teens of 2018.

Ms Akech recently begun a partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

"As someone who grew up in one of their refugee camps, it is now a personal connection that I want to strengthen in order to support others who are still struggling," she told i-D last year.

"I want all refugees to find a proper home and be given the opportunities that they deserve."
The "Force for Change" issue includes New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and young climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Adwoa Aboah, Ramla Ali, Sinead Burke, Gemma Chan, Laverne Cox, Jane Fonda, Salma Hayek Pinault, Francesca Hayward, Jameela Jamil, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Yara Shahidi and Christy Turlington Burns are also featured on the cover.

The magazine will feature a "candid conversation" between Meghan and former first lady of the United States Michelle Obama. The Duchess’ husband, Prince Harry, has also interviewed Jane Goodall, an 85-year-old English primatologist admired by Meghan during her childhood.

The "Force for Change" issue will be released 2 August.


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Sudanese-Australian model and refugee to appear on cover of Meghan Markle-edited issue of Vogue | SBS News