Iman

In the pantheon of global fashion icons, few names resonate with the power, grace, and pioneering spirit of Iman. Born Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid in 1955 in Mogadishu, Somalia, she transcended the traditional role of a model to become a cultural force, a savvy businesswoman, and a tireless humanitarian. Discovered by photographer Peter Beard in 1975, Iman's entry into the entertainment and fashion world was nothing short of meteoric. She quickly shattered industry barriers, becoming one of the first Black supermodels to achieve international superstardom and secure major cosmetic contracts. Her legacy is defined not only by her stunning presence on the covers of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar but also by her groundbreaking entrepreneurial venture, IMAN Cosmetics, which revolutionized beauty standards for women of color. This biography explores the remarkable journey of a Somali refugee who became an enduring symbol of elegance, intelligence, and empowerment.

Early Life & Education: From Mogadishu to Global Runways

Iman's story begins in Somalia, where she was born into a diplomatic family. Her father was a Somali diplomat and her mother a gynecologist. This relatively privileged background provided her with a strong educational foundation, but it was also marked by significant upheaval. Iman attended boarding schools in Egypt and later studied political science at the University of Nairobi in Kenya. Fluent in five languages—Somali, Arabic, Italian, French, and English—her worldview was shaped by a blend of African heritage and international exposure.

A pivotal moment occurred in 1975 during her time at university. While walking through Nairobi, she was spotted by the renowned American photographer Peter Beard. Captivated by her extraordinary height, regal bone structure, and undeniable presence, he convinced her to move to the United States to pursue modeling, initially telling her he believed she could be "the next Josephine Baker." Despite having no modeling aspirations, Iman agreed, a decision that would alter the course of fashion history. Her arrival in New York was strategically presented; Beard introduced her as a "Somali princess" herding goats, a fabricated exotic narrative that, while problematic, instantly captured the media's imagination and launched her career.

Career & Major Achievements: Redefining the Fashion Industry

Modeling Stardom and Breaking Barriers

Iman's modeling career exploded immediately. She signed with Wilhelmina Models and, in her first year, graced the cover of Vogue in 1976. Designers like Yves Saint Laurent, Gianni Versace, and Calvin Klein clamored to have her walk their runways and represent their visions. Iman was not just a muse; she was a trailblazer. In an era with painfully limited representation, she demanded—and received—equal pay and respect alongside her white counterparts. Her collaboration with Yves Saint Laurent was particularly historic; he created his "Afrique" collection inspired by her, and she became the first Black woman to represent a major French fashion house.

Her impact extended beyond the catwalk. She worked with the most legendary photographers of the 20th century, including Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, and Annie Leibovitz, creating images that are now part of fashion's permanent canon. By the late 1980s, Iman had cemented her status as a supermodel, a term she helped define. She also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as Out of Africa (1985) and Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991), further solidifying her place in the broader entertainment landscape.

Entrepreneurial Vision: IMAN Cosmetics

Perhaps her most profound and lasting achievement began out of personal necessity. Frustrated by the lack of makeup shades for women with deeper skin tones, Iman decided to create her own solutions. In 1994, she launched IMAN Cosmetics, a brand built on the radical idea that "all women of color are not created equal" in terms of skin tone. Starting with a simple line of foundation and powder, she filled a massive void in the beauty industry. Her deep understanding of the nuanced pigmentation of Black, Latina, and Asian skin made the brand an instant success.

IMAN Cosmetics grew into a global, multi-million dollar enterprise, initially sold at mass-market retailers like Target, making high-quality, inclusive beauty accessible. This venture firmly established Iman as a visionary entrepreneur. She didn't just endorse a product; she built a necessary institution from the ground up, predating today's mainstream focus on inclusivity by decades and paving the way for countless beauty entrepreneurs of color who followed.

Personal Life, Philanthropy & Legacy

Iman's personal life has been as captivating as her career. She was first married to basketball star Spencer Haywood in 1977, with whom she had her daughter, Zulekha Haywood. That marriage ended in divorce. In 1992, she married the iconic rock musician David Bowie. Their union, lasting until Bowie's death in 2016, was one of the most celebrated and private partnerships in the world of art and fashion. Together, they had a daughter, Alexandria "Lexi" Jones. Iman has often spoken of their deep, intellectual connection and shared life away from the spotlight.

Her legacy is deeply intertwined with her philanthropic work. A passionate advocate for her homeland and for global humanitarian causes, Iman has served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 1997, focusing on children's health and education in Somalia and across Africa. She is also a Global Advocate for the Keep a Child Alive organization, which supports families affected by HIV/AIDS. In 2010, she co-founded The Somalia Fund with her husband David Bowie to provide aid during a devastating famine. Her commitment to giving back is a core part of her identity, demonstrating that her influence extends far beyond aesthetics into tangible global impact.

Net Worth & Business Ventures

Iman's success as both a top-tier model and a pioneering entrepreneur has translated into significant financial success. While exact figures are often private estimates, her net worth is consistently reported to be in the range of $200 million. The cornerstone of this wealth is her highly successful cosmetics company, IMAN Cosmetics. In 2010, she expanded her brand portfolio by launching IMAN Global Chic, a line of accessories and home goods, further showcasing her aesthetic vision. Her business acumen is also evident in her savvy endorsements, licensing deals, and her work as a published author, having written books on beauty and style. Iman's financial standing is a direct testament to her intelligence and strategic vision, proving that her influence is as substantive as it is stylistic.

Today, Iman remains a powerful and respected figure. She continues to advocate for diversity in fashion, supports humanitarian causes, and manages her business empire. From a young woman discovered in Nairobi to a global icon who changed the face of beauty, Iman's journey is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and timeless elegance. She is not just a former supermodel; she is a lasting institution whose work continues to inspire generations in fashion, business, and philanthropy.