Anok Yai Height is 5 ft 10 in (1.79 m). Anok Yai is a South Sudanese-American supermodel who has risen to global fame for her elegance, powerful runway presence, and role in reshaping beauty standards in fashion.
Born in Cairo, Egypt, to South Sudanese parents and raised in New Hampshire, she was originally pursuing a degree in biochemistry before an unexpected twist of fate changed her life.
In 2017, a candid photo taken of her during Howard University’s homecoming went viral, capturing the attention of major modeling agencies and launching her into the fashion spotlight.
Soon after being discovered, Anok signed with Next Model Management and made an immediate impact in the industry.
She became the first South Sudanese model—and only the second Black model after Naomi Campbell—to open a Prada runway show, a historic milestone that cemented her as a powerful new voice in high fashion.
Since then, she has walked for iconic brands including Versace, Saint Laurent, Mugler, and Givenchy, and has appeared on the covers of multiple editions of Vogue, Elle, and i-D.
Anok is not only admired for her striking beauty and talent but also for her grace, intelligence, and authenticity. In 2023, she was named “Model of the Year” by models.com, reflecting her influence and staying power in a competitive industry.
Beyond modeling, Anok uses her platform to speak about representation, diversity, and self-empowerment, making her a symbol of progress and inspiration for young women around the world. Her journey is a testament to the unexpected paths that can lead to extraordinary success.
Anok Yai Biography/wiki
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Anok Yai |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | South Sudanese |
| Place of Birth | Cairo, Egypt |
| Raised In | Manchester, New Hampshire, USA |
| Profession | Fashion Model |
| Agency | Next Model Management |
| Education | Former biochemistry student |
| Known For | Opening Prada’s runway show (2018) |
| Career Start | 2017 (discovered via viral photo) |
| Major Brands Worked With | Prada, Versace, Saint Laurent, Mugler |
| Magazine Covers | Vogue, i-D, Elle, Dazed, and more |
| Awards | Models.com “Model of the Year” (2023) |
| Social Media | Active on Instagram and Twitter |
| Languages | English |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
Who Is Anok Yai?
Anok Yai is a South Sudanese-American supermodel who has become one of the most influential and recognizable faces in the fashion industry.
She gained worldwide attention in 2017 when a street-style photo of her at Howard University’s homecoming event went viral on social media. The image led to her signing with Next Model Management and marked the beginning of her meteoric rise in the modeling world.
What truly set Anok apart was her groundbreaking achievement as the first South Sudanese model—and only the second Black model after Naomi Campbell—to open a Prada runway show.
This historic moment catapulted her into high fashion, and she quickly became a favorite of top designers and luxury brands.
Since then, she has walked for industry giants like Versace, Mugler, Givenchy, and Saint Laurent, and appeared on the covers of international fashion magazines including Vogue, i-D, Elle, and Dazed.
Beyond her striking appearance and strong runway presence, Anok Yai is also celebrated for her intelligence, confidence, and advocacy for diversity in fashion.
She originally studied biochemistry before transitioning into modeling, and she often uses her platform to speak out about representation and inclusivity.
Anok’s story is not just about beauty—it’s about breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a modern fashion icon. She represents a new generation of models who are not only style leaders but also cultural changemakers.
Anok Yai Early Life and Family
Anok Yai was born in Cairo, Egypt, to South Sudanese parents who had fled the conflict and instability in their homeland. At a young age—around two to three years old—her family relocated to the United States, settling in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Growing up in a predominantly white community, Anok often felt like an outsider. She has openly spoken about the challenges she faced, including social anxiety and experiences with racism during her formative years.
Despite those difficulties, Anok was raised in a supportive and hardworking household. Her mother worked as a nurse, and her father was employed by a nonprofit organization, both of whom emphasized the importance of education and perseverance.
Anok’s older sister, Alim, has played a significant role in her life and career, eventually becoming her manager and financial consultant. Their close bond and shared dedication have been essential to Anok’s success.
Academically gifted, Anok attended Manchester High School West, where she excelled in science and other subjects. She later enrolled at Plymouth State University to study biochemistry with aspirations of entering the medical field. At the time, a career in fashion seemed distant and unlikely.
Her life took a dramatic turn in 2017 when a photographer captured a candid photo of her during Howard University’s homecoming event. That single image went viral, attracting attention from modeling agencies and launching her career in fashion almost overnight.
Anok Yai’s early life is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the strength of family support. From humble beginnings and academic ambition to international stardom, her story is both inspiring and empowering.
Anok Yai Nationality And Ethnicity
Anok Yai is American, having obtained U.S. citizenship after her family relocated from Egypt to the United States when she was a young child. She also holds South Sudanese heritage, reflecting her family’s cultural roots.
Born in Cairo, Egypt, to parents who fled conflict in Sudan, Anok moved to New Hampshire at around age three, where she was raised alongside her sister, Alim. Her background is overwhelmingly South Sudanese, specifically from the Dinka people—an identity she embraces and celebrates.
Anok Yai Amazing Career
Anok Yai’s modeling career is nothing short of remarkable—an inspiring journey that began with a viral photograph and evolved into a global fashion legacy.
In 2017, her life changed overnight when a street-style photographer captured a candid image of her at Howard University’s homecoming. The photo quickly went viral on social media, catching the attention of major modeling agencies. She was soon signed by Next Model Management, officially launching her career.
Anok made history in early 2018 by becoming the first South Sudanese model and the second Black model (after Naomi Campbell) to open a Prada runway show. This was a landmark moment in the fashion industry, breaking decades of underrepresentation on one of the world’s most prestigious catwalks.
Since then, Anok Yai has become a fixture in high fashion. She has walked for elite designers and houses such as Versace, Mugler, Givenchy, Chanel, Saint Laurent, and Dior. Her editorial presence is equally impressive, with multiple covers and features in international editions of Vogue, i-D, Elle, Dazed, and V Magazine.
In addition to runway and editorial work, Anok has starred in global campaigns for brands like Estée Lauder, Tiffany & Co., Nike, Zara, and Balmain, further solidifying her status as a commercial and high-fashion powerhouse.
Her unique look, commanding presence, and graceful poise have made her a muse for many of the world’s top designers and photographers.
In 2023, Anok was crowned “Model of the Year” by Models.com, a recognition of both her influence and staying power in the fashion world. Today, she stands not only as a successful supermodel but also as a symbol of representation, resilience, and redefined beauty in modern fashion.
Anok Yai Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 5′10″ (178–179 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 119 lbs (54 kg) |
| Body Type | Slim and tall |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Skin Tone | Deep ebony complexion |
| Facial Features | High cheekbones, oval face, full lips |
| Body Measurements | 32-24-34 inches (approximate) |
| Dress Size | 2 (US) |
| Shoe Size | 8.5 (US) |
| Runway Signature | Elegant posture, long stride |
| Notable Traits | Striking beauty, editorial presence |
Anok Yai Husband/Boyfriend And Relationship
Anok Yai is currently single, with no confirmed spouse or marriage known publicly. According to dating profiles, her most recent and notable relationship has been with fellow model Alton Mason, though details about their timeline and exclusivity are scarce and based largely on social appearances.
In late 2024, paparazzi spotted Anok with rapper Offset, sparking romance rumors amid his recent separation from Cardi B. The sighting—photographed during a casual outing—led to significant speculation in the media.
However, neither Anok nor Offset has confirmed any relationship status, and their interaction has not been described as romantic officially.
In general, Anok prefers to keep her personal life private, offering few hints about her dating life beyond occasional public outings. Her focus remains on her flourishing modeling career and advocacy work rather than relationships.
Fun Facts About Anok Yai Height
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Runway-Perfect Height
Anok Yai stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178–179 cm)—a height that places her perfectly within the high-fashion modeling standard, where most female runway models range from 5′9″ to 6′0″.
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One of the Tallest in Her Class
Growing up, Anok has said she was often one of the tallest girls in school, something that made her feel awkward as a teenager but later became one of her greatest career assets.
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Her Height Helped Her Go Viral
When her now-famous photo at Howard University went viral in 2017, her statuesque figure and striking presence caught the attention of modeling agencies instantly—even before she ever stepped onto a runway.
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Commanding Runway Presence
Her tall, slender frame allows her to move with fluid grace and confidence, which helped her make history as the second Black model ever to open a Prada show, after Naomi Campbell.
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She Looks Even Taller in Editorials
Photographers often highlight Anok’s long limbs and elegant posture to make her appear even taller and more regal in editorials and ad campaigns.
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Height + Poise = Supermodel Status
It’s not just her height—it’s how she carries herself. Anok’s poised walk and elongated silhouette contribute heavily to her reputation as one of the top “new supermodels” of her generation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anok Yai Height
How tall is Anok Yai?
Anok Yai is 5 feet 10 inches tall, which is approximately 178–179 cm.
Is Anok Yai considered tall for a model?
Yes, absolutely. Her height places her well within the ideal range for runway modeling, which typically starts at around 5′9″.
How does Anok Yai’s height compare to other top models?
She is similar in height to many other leading supermodels, including Naomi Campbell (5′10″), Gigi Hadid (5′10″), and Kendall Jenner (5′10″).
Did her height help her get discovered?
Yes, her tall and graceful stature played a key role when a viral photo of her at Howard University caught the attention of modeling scouts.
Conclusion About Anok Yai Height
Anok Yai’s height—measuring approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178–179 cm)—has been a defining feature of her presence and success in the fashion industry. It not only aligns with the elite standards of high-fashion modeling but also contributes to her striking runway walk, commanding aura, and editorial versatility.
Her tall and elegant frame helped her stand out in a viral photograph that launched her career, and it continues to serve as a key asset in her rise to global superstardom.
While height is only one part of what makes Anok unique, it complements her distinctive beauty, confidence, and strong work ethic. She embodies the modern supermodel—graceful, powerful, and trendsetting.
In a world where representation and individuality matter more than ever, Anok Yai’s height is not just a physical attribute—it’s a symbol of how standing tall, both literally and figuratively, can break boundaries and inspire a new standard of beauty in fashion.
