By GRACE MANTJIU, LOYISO MKHAZI,
UBUHLE ZWANE
The beauty industry has evolved from the rigid conventional standards back in the day. Through the years, some people fought hard to make a mark and break the norms so there can be diversity. We honour the people who contributed to being the first Blacks to either appear in advertisements, embrace natural beauty, or endorse giant cosmetics brands. The Firsts.
ALEK WEK
Born in South Sudan in 1977, Alek Wek was scouted as a model at an outdoor market in London at the age of 18. The following year, she moved to Paris, signed with Ford Models, and walked in Milan and New York fashion weeks. Alek’s.