Somali-American Supermodel Iman Honoured With The Third Franca Sozzani Award

The pioneering entrepreneur has dedicated herself to a plethora of humanitarian work

Eponymously named after the late editor-in-chief as a tribute, the prestigious Franca Sozzani Award serves recognition to women who have made a positive impact on their communities through their careers and social commitments.

For the third edition, 64 year old Somali-American model and entrepreneur Iman Bowie, widow of the late legend David Bowie, graciously received the award in Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice last night ahead of the Venice International Film Festival. The model is renowned for being a pioneering figure in the modelling industry, particularly for shedding light on black women back in 1976 when women of colour were a rarity in the fashion industry.

Last night, Iman was recognised for embracing a similar innovative and inclusive spirit as of Franca’s, as well as for her humanitarian work with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). Iman graced the stage in an incredible ruffled deep-purple Valentino floor-length gown and wore elegant jewellery by Chopard. Her beautiful smoky eye was achieved by makeup artist Porsche Cooper and her stunning hair was the work of award-winning stylist Oscar James.

The award ceremony was attended by model Richard Biedul, Italian stylist Pierpaolo Piccioli and Colombian ballet dancer Fernando Montano, to name just a few A-listers. Established in 2017, actress Julianne Moore was the inaugural recipient of the award for her determination and excellence in art and the second award was received by actress Salma Hayek last year, for her abundance of philanthropic work with UNICEF, Chime for Change and Mothers2Mothers.

Source: harpersbazaararabia