Legendary Supermodel Turns 54
We celebrate Naomi Campbell on her birthday and look back at the bright moments from the life and career of the "Black Panther."
The legendary model was born in London in 1970. Naomi’s mother was a dancer of Jamaican descent.
In her childhood, Naomi lived in Rome while her mother pursued contemporary dance. Naomi’s moment of early fame came at the age of eight when she appeared in Bob Marley’s music video “Is This Love.” However, her true career started at 15 when she was spotted by a representative from the Synchro modeling agency. In 1985, a month before her sixteenth birthday, the striking model appeared on the cover of the British edition of Elle.
During this time, Naomi was protected from the harsh realities of the fashion industry by the founder of the Alaïa fashion house, Azzedine Alaïa. Since then, designers have become not just friends but family to Naomi. Influenced by Yves Saint Laurent, Naomi became the first black woman to grace the covers of Paris and British Vogue in December 1987.
In the late 80s, Naomi was named one of the iconic models of the era, alongside Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista. Despite facing discrimination due to her skin color, Naomi always had the support of her colleagues. For instance, thanks to an ultimatum by Christy and Linda, Naomi was included in the Dolce & Gabbana show.
Naomi didn’t limit herself to modeling: in 1994, her music album “Babywoman” was released by Epic Records, which was warmly received in Japan.
Already a global star, Naomi also ventured into acting. The supermodel appeared in music videos for Michael Jackson, George Michael, Madonna, Jay-Z, and Beyoncé.
Naomi has also been involved in charitable activities. In 1997, in honor of Nelson Mandela, the top model organized a charity show with Versace to support the Children’s Fund in South Africa. A year later, Naomi wrote the book “Swan,” with proceeds going to the Red Cross in Somalia.
Despite her controversial nature, the “Black Panther” continues her philanthropic efforts: she collaborates with the Dalai Lama, helps raise funds for building schools and kindergartens in poor countries, and fights against racial discrimination with the Diversity Coalition.
People may love or hate Naomi; for some, she is an eccentric scandalist, while for others, she is a role model. One thing is certain: Naomi Campbell is a living legend in the global fashion industry.
