In this exclusive interview, Sudanese model Adot Gak shares her journey in the fashion industry with Glamour.

Sudanese-born model Adot Gak has taken the fashion world by storm after being discovered in a mall in Iowa. But it’s not all about her looks, she’s also a writer and content creator ― and has a keen sense of humour.GLAMOUR chatted to her about not conforming to beauty standards and what she’d like to do next.

Adot Gak is not just a pretty face. This 1.75 m-tall model is a writer and former contributing editor to The Standard newspaper. The daughter of an immigrant who was raised in Iowa never imagined the trajectory her life would take. Having appeared on many magazine covers, Adot uses her platform to challenge beauty standards and showcase the diversity within the industry. Her aim is to always be authentic and to use her influence to inspire others. No stranger to the red carpet and fashion industry parties showcasing her incredible sense of style, Adot is a breath of fresh air, enjoys connecting with people, and is a self-proclaimed “clown”. She’s someone who enjoys life and finds joy, spreading it wherever she finds herself. GLAMOUR had the privilege of chatting with her to find out more.

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GLAMOUR: How would you describe yourself?

Adot Gak: I would say I’m very outgoing and bubbly. I’m not a serious person at all; I’m the clown of the group. I believe that moving around a lot as a child has shaped who I am today. As the new kid, I had to find ways to fit in during every school year.

G: When you were first discovered, was becoming a model something you had aspired to?

AG: I’ve wanted to model since I was 12, but being the child of an immigrant and living in Iowa, where I didn’t meet the beauty standards, made me consider giving up my dreams. I never thought I would move to New York, especially since my mom didn’t want me to live

there; she thought it was dangerous.

G: Can you share what a typical day in your life looks like?

AG: It really depends on whether I have a photoshoot or a work trip, but usually I wake up early to do my daily workout while listening to the news or a podcast. This is followed by emails, meetings, and a couple of hours of writing. I then shoot content and end my day playing backgammon, reading a book, or watching a movie.

G: What are the essential items you need for a day on set?

AG: I definitely need my English Breakfast tea and my AirPods!

G: Have you faced any biases as a Black model?

AG: When I first started modelling, it was tough for Black models, and even harder for dark-skinned models. We didn’t get many opportunities and faced a lot of rejections, especially in Milan. However, things have changed significantly since the Black Lives Matter movement took off, and I’m very proud of how far we’ve come in the industry.

G: What have been your career highlights so far, and what would you

still like to achieve?

AG: Being featured on magazine covers and billboards are my highlights. I never thought I would see my face plastered in random places around the world, especially considering how I started my career, not fitting the beauty standard. I want to make a lasting impact in the industry as a model, writer and creative so that the next generation won’t only be models; they’ll be more.

G: Which photographers and brands do you enjoy working with?

A: My favourite photographers include Justin French, Andreas Ortner, Gabriel Moses, Lara Jade and Guy Aroch. As for brands, I’ve enjoyed working with Balmain, Alexander Wang, Dolce & Gabbana, H&M, Skims, Vetements, Philipp Plein, and so many others that I can’t think of at the moment!

G: I’ve had a glimpse of your body of work, and it’s phenomenal.

AG: Thank you for your kind words!

G: What is your favourite editorial you’ve done?

AG: That’s a tough one, but the Hero cover and story were incredible. It was the first editorial that, in my opinion, celebrated my femininity. The blonde wig and sexy outfits were a dream come true. I hope to do more editorials in a similar style.

G: We understand the modelling industry is not for the faint of heart and can severely affect your mental health. What do you do to prioritise your mental health? Do you have any self-care practices?

AG: Oh yes, it affected me in the beginning. I did a lot of meditation, prayer, and endless walks. But now, I’m at a point in my life where I don’t care about others’ opinions of me. If you like me and want to work with me, great! If I’m not your cup of tea, that’s fine, too.

G: When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing?

AG: I wish I had days without work! I’m always busy; if it’s not modelling, it’s writing, and if it’s not that, I’m creating content, which I very much enjoy doing.

G: Can you share a fun fact about yourself that no one would ever guess?

AG: I’m extremely funny! People often say my personality doesn’t match my looks. (Lol!)