In a groundbreaking move, this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue proudly showcases Halima Aden, a 21-year-old Somali-American model, marking the first time a woman has graced its pages wearing both a hijab and a burkini. This reflects the magazine’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Aden’s presence is not just a fashion statement; it’s an inspiring narrative of resilience and hope. Born in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, she and her family relocated to the United States when she was just seven. For her Sports Illustrated shoot, the team chose the stunning Watamu Beach in Kenya, a place that holds deep significance for her. “I keep thinking back to six-year-old me, who was in a refugee camp in this same country,” Aden shared during her shoot. “To come back to Kenya and shoot for SI in such beautiful surroundings—it’s a story that feels surreal.”
Social media is abuzz with admiration for Aden, who has become a symbol of representation. One enthusiastic supporter even suggested that Mattel create a Barbie inspired by her—a concept that many would certainly embrace.
Aden’s journey has been one of breaking barriers; she became the first woman to wear a hijab in the Miss Minnesota USA pageant at the age of 19, where she was a semi-finalist. Her career has since flourished, leading her to walk the runways of international fashion shows and becoming the first hijabi model to appear on the cover of British Vogue. She advocates for modesty in fashion as a powerful choice for women.
MJ Day, editor of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, praised Aden, stating, “We believe beauty knows no boundaries. Halima is not only a great beauty but also an inspiring human who uses her platform for important causes, including her work with UNICEF.”
With the full spread set to hit newsstands on May 9, we can’t wait to see how Halima Aden’s story unfolds in this iconic issue.
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In summary, Halima Aden’s feature in Sports Illustrated represents a significant step towards inclusivity in fashion, showcasing the beauty of diversity while inspiring many through her personal story.