Dutch Supermodel and activist Imaan Hammam is both a fashion industry icon and a shining example for young women everywhere.
Of Moroccan and Egyptian descent, Imaan grew up in Amsterdam as one of the six children of two immigrants. Her vibrant energy and beautiful features attracted three separate model scouts before she agreed to give the industry a chance. Coming from a Muslim family, Imaan expected hesitation toward such a career choice, but her mother’s support fueled her forward.
Imaan made her runway debut in 2013 for Jean-Paul Gaultier, Givenchy, Hermes, Proenza Schouler, Chanel, and Valentino. Her stand-out walk and confidence caught the eye of industry experts and young girls the world over who saw themselves represented in the top tier of fashion through Imaan.
A fashion icon, Imaan’s ability to embody any character lends itself to print as well. She is a favorite subject of acclaimed fashion photographers Steven Meisel, Craig McDean, Annie Leibovitz, David Sims, Mert & Marcus, Willy Vanderperre, Jamie Hawkesworth, Inez & Vinoodh, and Mario Sorrenti. She has covered the September issue of American Vogue as well as the Italian, British, French, Mexican, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, and Japanese editions in addition to Harper’s Bazaar, WSJ, i-D, Elle, and Vanity Fair.
By starring in campaigns for Tiffany & Co, Chanel, Versace, Fendi, Moschino, Revlon, Shiseido, and Calvin Klein, to name a few, Imaan champions women of color in the fashion industry. She has also been a Victoria’s Secret ambassador since 2020.
Whether she’s covering the September issue of Vogue or dancing in the Gambia, Imaan’s passion for ensuring that every girl is "educated, respected, and heard" comes through in all that she does. As a global ambassador for non-profit She’s the First as well as their 2021 ‘Powerhouse of the Year,’ Imaan advocates for young women from all backgrounds. As Imaan tells Harper’s Bazaar, she comes from a family that supported her various endeavors and encouraged her to overcome obstacles. She wishes to do the same for young women who do not have the same resources she did.
In 2023 Imaan became the newest Global Brand Ambassador for Estée Lauder. “I am so honored to be part of the Estée Lauder family,” says Imaan. “Estée Lauder has such a rich heritage and some of the most iconic beauty products, but I am most proud to be part of a brand that champions women’s advancement around the world.”
Recognized for her contributions to the fashion industry and her role as an activist, Imaan was awarded one of Bazaar’s Woman of the Year awards in 2020. At only 25 years old, Imaan continues to "fight for a world where every girl has the chance and the power to choose her own future" while simultaneously taking the fashion industry by storm.