𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫 𝐎𝐝𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐠: From Refugee Camp to Global Runway Icon – A Story of Resilience, Beauty, and Purpose

In the world of high fashion, where the blend of talent, beauty, and personality shapes the most unforgettable careers, Awar Odhiang stands out as a beacon of resilience and inspiration. The Canadian model, born in a refugee camp in Ethiopia and raised in small-town Saskatchewan, has defied the odds to become one of the most in-demand models globally in 2025. Known for her striking features—dark brown hair, soulful brown eyes, and a statuesque 5'9.5" frame—Awar’s journey is as compelling as her captivating presence on the runway.

Early Life: From Pinyudo Refugee Camp to Calgary’s Fashion Scene

Awar Odhiang’s story begins in a refugee camp in Pinyudo, Ethiopia, where she was born to a family fleeing South Sudan’s civil war. Part of the Anyuak tribe, her family sought safety and a new beginning, eventually relocating to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada, when Awar was just two years old. Growing up as one of the few Black girls in a small Canadian town was challenging. Awar faced bullying and often felt like an outsider, struggles that shaped her humility and inner strength.

Her modeling journey began unexpectedly. At 17, while folding sweaters at Old Navy in Calgary’s Market Mall, she caught the eye of renowned fashion agent Kelly Streit, founder of Mode Models International in Calgary. Although Awar was already signed with an agency, Streit recognized something special in her—a unique beauty and presence that could shine on the global stage. With his guidance, her career took off rapidly.

Modeling Career: Agencies and Global Representation

Awar’s meteoric rise is supported by top-tier agencies worldwide:

• Mother Agency: Mode Models International (Calgary)
• New York: Ford Models
• Paris: Ford Models Paris
• Milan: Fabbrica Milano Management
• London: Models 1
• Barcelona: Traffic Models

This international representation has allowed Awar to walk runways in all major fashion capitals and collaborate with the world’s leading luxury brands.

Runway Highlights & Fashion Week Dominance

In 2025 alone, Awar Odhiang’s presence has been undeniable at fashion weeks across the globe. She walked over 34 shows in February alone during the Milan, New York, and Paris Fashion Weeks, showcasing collections for the most prestigious brands, including:

• Gucci (Cruise 2026 Show in Florence)
• Louis Vuitton (Fall/Winter 2025 Show in Paris, Resort 2026 Show in Avignon)
• Saint Laurent (Winter 2025 Show)
• Prada
• Fendi
• Versace
• Chanel
• Hermès
• Balenciaga
• Isabel Marant

Her commanding runway presence and versatility—from classic couture to bold streetwear—have made her a favorite of designers and fashion editors alike.

Editorial and Campaign Work: Iconic Collaborations

Awar’s editorial portfolio is as impressive as her runway resume. She has been featured in the covers and editorials of some of the world’s most influential fashion magazines:

• Harper’s Bazaar Italia – Cover and Editorials “Il Cammino Della Speranza” and “Spirited Away” (June 2025), photographed by Juergen Teller and Pieter Hugo
• System Magazine – Collections Issue No. 1 and Autumn/Winter 2025-2026 Editorials, photographed by Mark Kean
• Harper’s Bazaar U.S.
• American Vogue
• British Vogue
• W Magazine
• M de la Mode Magazine
• French Harper’s Bazaar

She also starred in major advertising campaigns such as Zara’s 50th Anniversary "50 Years, 50 Icons", directed by Steven Meisel, and has been the face of multiple Saint Laurent campaigns.

Physical Attributes and Signature Look

Awar’s distinct beauty breaks the mold. Her dark brown hair, warm brown eyes, and striking high cheekbones give her a versatile look—able to embody everything from ethereal softness to fierce, modern edge. Her measurements are:

• Height: 177 cm / 5’9.5”
• Bust: 77 cm / 30”
• Waist: 59 cm / 23”
• Hips: 86 cm / 34”
• Shoe Size: 39.5 EU / 7.5 US

These proportions, combined with her graceful runway walk and expressive features, make her highly sought after for both runway and print.

Personal Journey: Strength, Purpose, and Giving Back

Despite the glitz and glamour of fashion, Awar remains deeply grounded in her roots and experiences. She openly shares how modeling was initially outside her world—her true passion was health sciences and a dream to become a doctor. Her background, moving from a refugee camp to a small Canadian town and overcoming bullying, gave her unique perspective and resilience.

Awar uses her platform and visibility to raise awareness and give back. She has worked alongside her father on projects to bring grinding mills and convenience stores to South Sudanese villages, bridging her career with her heritage and desire to create tangible change.

Her agent Kelly Streit highlights Awar’s rare qualities: “She’s not just a face; she has a strong head on her shoulders. The industry can be cutthroat, but Awar has the professionalism and heart to navigate it.”

Industry Impact: A Symbol of Diversity and Change

Awar Odhiang represents the transformative shift in the fashion industry toward diversity and inclusion. Kelly Streit notes, “Awar came at the right time. The world was ready to embrace a broader spectrum of Black beauty, not just one narrow look. She’s authentic, professional, and embodies the new era of fashion.”

Models.com recognizes her as one of the 50 most in-demand models worldwide. In 2022, she won Model of the Year at the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards—a testament to her growing influence.

Why Awar Odhiang is a Role Model for Aspiring Models and Fans Alike

Awar’s story resonates far beyond fashion runways. She is a powerful example of overcoming adversity, staying true to oneself, and using success as a tool for positive impact. For aspiring models, she embodies the reality behind the glamour—the grit, discipline, and self-awareness required to thrive.

For fashion lovers, Awar offers inspiration through her elegance, strength, and the meaningful narrative she brings to every project.

The Journey Continues

At just 24 years old, Awar Odhiang’s career is still blossoming. Her commitment to excellence, combined with a profound connection to her heritage and desire to uplift others, sets her apart in the modeling world.

As she continues to walk for top designers, grace magazine covers, and expand her philanthropic work, Awar is not just a model—she is a symbol of hope, beauty, and purposeful change in fashion.