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Awar Odhiang, Ethiopian-born and Canadian-raised, has rapidly become a prominent figure in global fashion. With runway appearances for Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Chanel, alongside major campaigns and editorial features, she is recognized for her versatility, presence, and historic milestones, including closing a Chanel show as the third Black model in history.
By the Editorial Staff
Awar Odhiang closing the Chanel show
Photo: Victor VIRGILE - Getty Images
Nationality: Canada
Born in a refugee camp in Ethiopia, Awar Odhiang is a Canadian model whose commanding presence across runways, campaigns, and editorials has established her as one of the most versatile and recognized faces in contemporary fashion. A regular on Models.com’s Top 50 and a 2024 Model of the Year nominee, Odhiang continues to make her mark on the global stage.
Schiaparelli
Photo: Getty Images
In 2025, she walked for major houses including Hermès, Schiaparelli, Jil Sander, Zara SRPLS, Max Mara, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana, Jacquemus, and Prada, highlighted by her Prada Autumn/Winter 2025 campaign. Her campaign portfolio spans Prada, Loro Piana, Sportmax, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, and Saint Laurent. Editorial features include Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and WSJ.
Born into the Anuak tribe of South Sudan, Odhiang and her family moved to Canada, settling in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, before relocating to Calgary at age 16. She began modeling in school and was discovered by Mode Models’ owner Kelly Streit while working at Old Navy. Odhiang has since worked with top luxury brands and made history as the third Black model to close a Chanel show at Paris Fashion Week, joining Alek Wek and Adut Akech. Her career reflects talent, resilience, and a commitment to inspiring young Black and South Sudanese women in fashion.
Awar Odhiang has gone viral for her runway moment with Chanel
Photo: AFP
Awar Odhiang is a natural on the runway
Photo: AFP
This article is an original editorial analysis produced by [DIBA magazine].
Research and references are used for contextual accuracy.