Somali-American model Ugbad Abdi has become a defining figure in the fashion world, celebrated not only for her striking presence but also for her trailblazing role as a hijab-wearing model on major runways. Born in Kismayo, Somalia, Abdi’s early life was marked by displacement due to the Somali Civil War. Her family sought refuge in a Kenyan camp before relocating to Des Moines, Iowa, in 2009 with the support of UNICEF, where she spent her formative years.

Abdi’s path into modeling began shortly after high school when she was discovered on Instagram. A trip to New York to meet with agency representatives led her to sign with Next Management, launching a career that would see her quickly rise to international prominence.

Her debut came at the 2018/2019 Valentino haute couture show, a remarkable entry that paved the way for her to open New York Fashion Week shows for Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors.

Over the years, Abdi has walked for some of the most prestigious fashion houses, including Chanel, Miu Miu, Simone Rocha, Burberry, Fendi, Lanvin, Max Mara, and Dries van Noten. In 2019, she achieved a rare feat by appearing simultaneously in the British, American, and Arabian editions of Vogue. Recognized as one of the breakout models of Fall 2019, her influence in the industry continues to grow, culminating in her 2022 cover appearance on Vogue France alongside Danish model Mona Tougaard.

What sets Abdi apart is her commitment to her identity. A practicing Muslim, she began wearing the hijab at fourteen and has continued to do so on the runway. In 2019, she made history as the first model to walk Fendi and Lanvin shows while wearing her head covering, challenging traditional norms in high fashion and inspiring a new generation of models.