Alex Consani Is the First Out Trans Woman to Be Named Model of the Year

Alex Consani is making history again. The model and Teen Vogue cover star was just named Model of the Year at the British Fashion Council’s 2024 Fashion Awards, which took place at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

“I’m the first trans woman to win this award!” she exclaimed in her speech. “But I can’t accept this award without thanking those who came before me, specifically the Black trans women who really fought for the space I’m in today–Dominique Jackson, Connie Fleming, Aaron Rose Phillips and countless more who fought for the space that allowed me to flourish today.” She also thanked her parents for supporting her and encouraged other parents of trans kids to support them. “Change is more than possible; it’s needed,” she concluded to roaring applause.

For the event, Consani wore a corseted dress featuring a Union Jack draping designed by Dilara Findikoglu. (According to Vogue, the look came about via DM).

The model is no stranger to breaking barriers in the fashion industry. Not only was she the first trans woman nominated in the category at the BFC, but in October, she became one of the first two trans women to walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show red carpet. At the Teen Vogue Summit in November, she talked about how she’s navigated an industry that is still far behind when it comes to real inclusion. “The more I work, the more I see the lack of representation we need. It pushes me to work harder,” she said. “I’m friends with a lot of women who are amazing at their job, but they’re pushed to the side.”

Additional reporting on Alex Consani’s historic win was done by Sandy Aziz.