Alex Consani’s historic win as the first transgender model to be named Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards has sparked significant conversation within the fashion industry. The event was held at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Monday night, and it celebrated a milestone that is as impactful as it is controversial.
The 21-year-old model, recognized for her runway prowess and vibrant social media presence, received the prestigious accolade, marking a pivotal moment for both her career and the broader conversation about representation in the fashion world.
During her acceptance speech, Consani expressed deep gratitude and used the platform to advocate for change in the industry. Acknowledging the trailblazing efforts of the transgender community, she emphasized the importance of inclusivity and collective support. The weight of her achievement, however, extends beyond her win. It represents a significant shift in an industry that has long been critiqued for its lack of diversity and inclusion, particularly in terms of gender identity.

Consani’s rise to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for her striking presence on the runway, she has walked for major luxury brands such as Chanel, Stella McCartney, Diesel, and Simone Rocha during the spring 2025 season.
Her versatility was also on display in Jacquemus’s surreal holiday campaign, where her performance in whimsical settings demonstrated her unique ability to blend artistry with high fashion. Yet, it is her role as a pioneer that has garnered the most attention, particularly her historic appearance alongside Valentina Sampaio as one of the first transgender models to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
Despite the celebration of her accomplishments, her win has not been without its share of controversy. Anok Yai, one of the nominees for the Model of the Year award and a prominent figure in the industry, made headlines with her candid response. Yai, a 26-year-old model who was also shortlisted for the award last year, expressed her exhaustion and announced that she no longer wishes to be considered for the title.
While congratulating Consani publicly, she posted on social media, “Alex, I love you and I’m so proud of you. British Fashion Council, thank you but I don’t want it anymore.” Her message highlighted the intense demands placed on models at the top of their field, as well as her admiration for Consani’s dedication.

Yai’s statement, which underscored both her exhaustion and her respect for Consani, revealed a more personal side to the competitive nature of the modeling industry. Her sentiment, “Alex can be proud and I can be exhausted at the same time,” resonated with many, shedding light on the emotional toll of an industry often criticized for its relentless pace and unattainable standards.
The discourse surrounding her comments, coupled with the milestone achieved by Consani, has reignited debates about the pressures within the fashion world and the need for systemic change.
The Model of the Year award, which recognizes global influence, outstanding contributions, and transcendent impact, has long been a benchmark of excellence in fashion. Consani’s victory is not just a testament to her talent but also a reflection of a shifting landscape that is beginning to embrace a broader spectrum of identities which should include black women.
Her TikTok following of 3.9 million, built on comedic and relatable content adds another layer to her influence. It demonstrates her ability to connect with audiences beyond the runway, bridging the gap between high fashion and everyday life.

However, the celebration of Consani’s achievement also underscores the challenges faced by transgender individuals in the public eye. As the first transgender recipient of this prestigious honor, she has become a focal point for both praise and criticism.
Her visibility, particularly in spaces traditionally dominated by cisgender narratives, has sparked necessary conversations about representation and acceptance. In her words, “It’s really important to have people like me on the runway being perceived as beautiful, especially in a setting that’s always been very cis-oriented.”
Alex Consani’s journey, marked by groundbreaking achievements and profound advocacy, is belived to be a testament to resilience and the power of representation. Fans and fashion enthusiasts have expressed their thoughts that her presence in the industry continues to inspire, reminding the world that beauty is not confined to one definition.
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