Beauty may lie in the eyes of the beholder, but there are moments when it becomes undeniable, especially when measured on clear, well-defined scales. While some might say beauty is only skin deep, others believe it is something that can be seen and felt—reflected through a person’s values, passions, and contributions to the world. It is with this balanced perspective that we present the most beautiful African women of 2024. These women not only embrace their physical allure but also transcend it, choosing to remain relevant and impactful through their actions, influence, and dedication to society.
The most beautiful African women of 2024 come from diverse walks of life and have risen above backgrounds and challenges to blaze a trail for the next generation. By shattering systemic limitations that have posed obstacles over time, these remarkable women have redefined what it means to persevere. While others may have accepted defeat in the face of such hindrances, these queens continue to dismantle stereotypes and overcome stumbling blocks, proving that winning is not just an option—it’s the only outcome.
Check out the top 20 most impactful and beautiful African women of 2024…
#20. Michaela Coel
- Age: 37
- Profession: Actress
- Nationality: Ghanaian
Born to Ghanaian parents, British actress Michaela Coel grew up in East London, where she experienced life as a Black minority. Born Michaela Ewuraba Boakye-Collinson, she began her artistic journey as a gifted poet, performing at open mic nights across London—a foundational experience that became the bedrock of her career. In life, we sometimes encounter people who play pivotal roles in shaping our paths, and for Coel, one such figure was Ché Walker, an English actor and playwright. Although Coel initially struggled to find her footing in college, Walker convinced her to attend one of his masterclasses. That moment became her turning point, leading her to study acting at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
Michaela Coel is recognized as one of the most beautiful African women of 2024 and has made a significant impact in Hollywood. The star of “I May Destroy You” has received numerous accolades, including the BAFTA Award for Best Female Comedy Performance for “Chewing Gum.” She made history as the first Black woman to win the Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series and has also been recognized as Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series at the Primetime Emmys.
Coel’s acclaimed series I May Destroy You was born out of her personal experience with sexual assault during the writing of Chewing Gum. This deeply personal story has fueled her commitment to advocating against all forms of violence, including sexual and domestic abuse. Michaela Coel is a passionate advocate for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, using her platform to highlight important issues. Her impactful storytelling has earned her the Jane Fonda Humanitarian Award.
Beyond entertainment, Coel supports social causes, such as participating in Oxfam’s #SecondHandSeptember campaign in 2020 to combat the negative effects of fast fashion. She exemplifies that true beauty goes beyond appearance, using her influence to uplift marginalized voices. As one of the most beautiful African women of 2024, her authenticity and determination illustrate that true beauty lies in strength, resilience, and a commitment to meaningful change.
#19. Chimamanda Adichie
- Age: 47
- Profession: Writer
- Nationality: Nigerian
Half of a Yellow Sun author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie continues to prove her relevance year after year. While her undeniable contributions to postcolonial feminism have already earned her a lasting place in history, the activist refuses to rest on her laurels or relish only past victories. The Nigerian-born writer, who began her literary journey with the acclaimed novel Purple Hibiscus, has since expanded her impressive catalog with books like Americanah and We Should All Be Feminists. Now, after nearly a decade since her last long-form fiction, Adichie has teased her much-anticipated new novel, Dream Count, set for release on March 4, 2025. This upcoming work, centered on four women and the strenuous challenges they face personally and professionally, is already generating immense excitement. Staying true to her style, Adichie’s Dream Count promises to address critical themes such as injustice, self-esteem, sexual assault, and societal gender challenges.
In addition to her fiction, Adichie has also made her mark in children’s literature with Mama’s Sleeping Scarf, a debut that charmed readers with its pictorial simplicity and relatable storytelling. For her children’s series, she adopted the pen name Nwa Grace-James, creating a distinct identity to connect with younger audiences. Beyond her literary achievements, Adichie’s impact continues to be recognized globally. In 2022, she received the prestigious W. E. B. Du Bois Medal, Harvard’s highest honor in African and African American studies—a testament to her cultural and intellectual influence.
However, Adichie’s fight against gender stereotypes remains unwavering. In a historic move, she was awarded the chieftaincy title “Odeluwa Abba” in her hometown—the first woman ever to receive such an honor. Her acceptance speech powerfully underscored her lifelong mission: “Ours must be a culture that celebrates achievements, whether it comes from a man or woman.” It was a quintessential Adichie moment—fierce, uncompromising, and deeply inspiring.
#18. Logina Salah
- Age: 34
- Profession: Beauty Queen
- Nationality: Egyptian
Popularly known as a skin positivity advocate, Logina Salah shattered barriers as the first Egyptian woman with vitiligo to grace the Miss Universe stage. Her groundbreaking appearance marked a pivotal moment in redefining global beauty standards. Not only did Salah create history by becoming the first Egyptian contestant to reach the Top 30 in the pageant’s 73-year history, but her journey also signaled a new era of representation and inclusivity.
Beyond her pageantry success, Salah has been a tireless advocate for vitiligo awareness and inclusive beauty practices, using her platform to challenge societal perceptions. She launched her Beyond The Surface movement, which amplifies awareness around social issues, mental health, and skin positivity. Through this initiative, Salah collaborates with influential organizations like UNICEF, Forbes, and Egypt’s Ministry of Education as a spokesperson against bullying and harassment.
A true trailblazer, Salah wears many hats as a beauty queen, entrepreneur, and makeup artist. Her impactful advocacy and groundbreaking achievements earned her the prestigious title of “Most Influential Woman” from the World Woman Foundation. By breaking stereotypes and pushing boundaries, Logina Salah continues to inspire individuals to embrace their uniqueness and challenge conventional beauty norms.
#17. Natasha Joubert
- Age: 27
- Profession: Model
- Nationality: South African
Crowned Miss South Africa 2023, Natasha Joubert exemplifies both stunning beauty and an unwavering commitment to impactful change. Her journey began when she first gained recognition as Miss Globe South Africa 2016, followed by her success as Miss Universe South Africa 2020. Building on these milestones, her reign as Miss South Africa 2023 has been defined by adventure, fashion, and, most importantly, purpose.
Throughout her tenure, Joubert has traveled extensively, fueled by her passion for youth education and empowerment. This dedication led to the creation of the Natasha Joubert Collective, an educational initiative aimed at providing scholarships to deserving students. Collaborating with her alma mater, Boston City Campus, the campaign focuses on offering practical, time-relevant courses—such as content creation—underscoring Joubert’s emphasis on inclusivity and entrepreneurship.
As a B.Com Marketing Management graduate and a successful fashion entrepreneur, Joubert not only advocates for impactful change but also leads by example. Her personal background, combined with her relentless passion to give back, solidifies her place as one of the most beautiful African women of 2024. By seamlessly blending beauty, intelligence, and philanthropy, Natasha Joubert proves that true beauty lies in making a meaningful difference.
#16. Mo Abudu
- Age: 60
- Profession: Media Mogul
- Nationality: Nigerian
Being recognized by Forbes Africa as the first African woman to own a Pan-Africa TV channel was only the tip of the iceberg for Mosunmola “Mo” Abudu. Renowned for blazing trails with an unbeatable streak of groundbreaking achievements, Abudu has redefined possibilities for African women in media. In 2019, she made history as the first African to chair the Emmy Awards Gala, a milestone that underscored her global influence. As the CEO of the EbonyLife Group, a thriving media and lifestyle conglomerate, she not only amplifies African stories but also creates job and training opportunities for youth through initiatives like the EbonyLife Creative Academy.
Beyond her work in media, Abudu is a dedicated advocate for social change, blending philanthropy with her commitment to empowering Africa’s next generation. A woman of many firsts, she was the first Sub-Saharan African woman to join the Oscars and made history when Netflix signed its first-ever multi-title film and TV agreement with her EbonyLife TV. Her journey began with the iconic Moments with Mo, Africa’s first syndicated daily talk show, and her groundbreaking contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the MIPTV Médailles d’Honneur in Cannes in 2019.
This year, Abudu was once again featured on the Hollywood Reporter’s list of the 31 Most Powerful Women in International Television, proving that her influence is unwavering. With high-grossing movies, globally celebrated TV shows, and a legacy of firsts, Mo Abudu continues to thrive unapologetically, solidifying her place as one of the most beautiful African women of 2024—a title that celebrates both her stunning achievements and her transformative impact on the continent.
#15. Bozoma Saint John
- Age: 47
- Profession: Marketing Executive
- Nationality: Ghanaian
Climbing up the corporate ladder with undeniable brilliance, Bozoma Saint John has built a net worth of over $30 million, solidifying her place as one of the most beautiful African women of 2024. Best known as the first Black C-level executive at Netflix, her career spans high-profile senior management roles at global giants like Uber, PepsiCo, Apple, Beats Music, and many more. As a trailblazer in the business world, Saint John wears many hats—marketing executive, Harvard Business School lecturer, podcaster, and, as of May 2024, a soon-to-be reality star joining the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Announcing her role with characteristic confidence, she declared, “Introducing the greatest product I’ve ever marketed: myself.”
Saint John’s influence extends far beyond boardrooms. After the 2020 murder of George Floyd, her podcast became a platform to address systemic racism, showcasing her commitment to advocacy. Her marketing genius has been recognized with inductions into both the American Marketing Association’s Hall of Fame and the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement. Named Forbes’ Number One Most Influential Chief Marketing Officer in the World, she is, quite simply, the face of modern advertising and marketing—a true force of nature.
Her activism further underscores her purposeful approach to life. The #SharetheMicNow movement, which she co-founded, amplified Black women’s voices by encouraging prominent white women to hand over their platforms for critical conversations on systemic racism and gender inequality. Participants like Katie Couric encapsulated its impact, stating, “When the world listens to women, it listens to white women.” This initiative has been instrumental in magnifying the stories and achievements of Black women.
In addition to her work in advocacy, Saint John partners with Pencils of Promise, providing educational opportunities in developing countries, and collaborates with Girls Who Code to empower young women in computer science. As an entrepreneur, she is the founder of the haircare line Eve by Boz and the author of the memoir The Urgent Life, where she reflects on personal resilience and purpose.
Not stopping there, she continues to make strides in beauty and fashion, actively championing Black inclusion within the industry. With a resume spanning corporate leadership, activism, entrepreneurship, and pop culture, Bozoma Saint John is a 360-degree queen who does everything with intention, leaving an indelible mark wherever she goes. Her journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and boundless ambition—qualities that make her an inspiration and a deserving icon on this list of the most beautiful African women of 2024.
#14. Genevieve Nnaji
- Age: 45
- Profession: Actress
- Nationality: Nigerian
After a long time away from the limelight, the talented Nollywood actress, Genevieve Nnaji, has made a few notable appearances this year. Her return comes after her groundbreaking directorial debut with the 2018 film Lionheart, which garnered global recognition as the first Nigerian Netflix film and the first Nigerian submission for the Oscars. However, following this success, Nnaji went on a hiatus, only to make a much-anticipated comeback in 2023.
Despite her absence, the star’s impact on the movie industry remains undeniable. In her characteristic style, Nnaji returned with a project that reaffirmed her status as a cinematic powerhouse. Alongside Chioma Onyenwe and Chinny Carter, she produced the 2023 film I Do Not Come to You by Chance, an adaptation of Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s 2009 novel. Notably, the movie premiered at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, further cementing Nnaji’s ability to deliver projects of global relevance.
What sets Nnaji apart is her unwavering commitment to precision and strategy in every production. Her work consistently shines a spotlight on Nigerian cinema, placing the country on the map for the right reasons. As one of the most beautiful African women of 2024, Nnaji continues to silently blaze the trail, inspiring the younger generation of filmmakers and storytellers to reach for excellence.
Her story is not just one of beauty but also of resilience, vision, and an enduring legacy in African cinema. With every step, Nnaji reminds us that true impact can transcend temporary absence, as long as talent and dedication remain at the core.
#13. Bettinah Tianah
- Age: 31
- Profession: TV Personality
- Nationality: Ugandan
Multi-talented Betty Nassali, widely known as Tianah, has built a name for herself as a TV personality, particularly for anchoring shows like Youth Voice and The Style Project. Her career took a notable turn when she gained recognition for her lead role as Rhona in the Hostel Serenity series, which earned her significant acclaim. In 2022, Tianah expanded her horizons by launching her own business, BT Beauty Uganda, further solidifying her influence in both the fashion and beauty industries.
Tianah’s style has earned her a reputation as a top-tier fashionista, and her growing social media platforms are a testament to her rightful place among the Best Dressed stars. Even after resigning from her long-time presenting role at NTV Uganda, the star continues to thrive as an influencer, digital creator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Her entrepreneurial spirit is matched by her philanthropic efforts; through her foundation, Tianah works tirelessly to empower young women across Uganda.
In partnership with organizations sharing her passion, she raises funds for sanitary materials for underprivileged girls, ensuring they have the resources they need to stay in school. Additionally, she gives back to society by offering masterclasses for aspiring content creators, teaching them how to navigate the digital landscape while building successful careers. Tianah’s commitment to uplifting others demonstrates that true beauty goes beyond appearance—it’s about impact, empowerment, and making a difference in the lives of others.
#12. Ayra Starr
- Age: 22
- Profession: Singer
- Nationality: Nigerian
Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, but known professionally as Ayra Starr, the Nigerian singer has skyrocketed to stardom with her infectious tracks like “Away” and “Bloody Samaritan,” which quickly became anthems across Nigeria. However, it was her 2022 hit “Rush” that truly catapulted her into international recognition. The song went viral globally and earned her a 2024 Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance, cementing her status as a global sensation. Ayra Starr has since become what Nigerians call a “hot cake,” collaborating with international stars like Coco Jones, Coldplay, and Giveon.
Her second studio album, The Year I Turned 21, made waves by debuting at number 195 on the Billboard 200, marking her as the first Nigerian female artist to achieve such a feat. 2024 Spotify’s Wrapped further confirmed her prominence, listing her as one of the most streamed female artists in Africa, showcasing the growing dominance of Black beauties in a previously male-dominated music industry. With her worldwide tour and sultry, audacious style, Starr continues to rack up accolades and keep fans buzzing.
Beyond her musical achievements, Starr is committed to using her platform for good. She partners with agricultural organizations to share food boxes and provide training in poultry farming to communities in need. Additionally, her E Dey Rush campaign, in collaboration with Mavin Records and Hope Spring Water, aims to provide borehole installations for underserved communities. Ayra Starr’s remarkable combination of musical talent and social impact makes her a true role model and an influential force in both the entertainment industry and beyond.
#11. Lupita Nyong’o
- Age: 41
- Profession: Actress
- Nationality: Kenyan
Hollywood actress Lupita Nyong’o shot to international fame after her unforgettable performance in Steve McQueen’s 12 Years a Slave in 2013. Although she began her acting career earlier, it was in 2013 that her talent gained major traction. Best known for her role in the Black Panther franchise, Nyong’o has since accumulated numerous prestigious accolades, including an Oscar, Emmy, and multiple nominations for the Tony Awards and Golden Globes. In 2014, she was named People Magazine’s Most Beautiful Woman, and in 2020, she was featured in Forbes’s Africa’s 50 Most Powerful Women list, solidifying her as a global icon.
Beyond her acting prowess, Lupita Nyong’o has become a vocal advocate for several important causes. She stands firmly against women and animal abuse, using her platform to raise awareness. Her partnership with Mother Health International supports pregnant women in underdeveloped nations by providing training on safer birthing procedures and empowering midwives.
A rare and noteworthy cause she champions is the preservation of history. In the face of urbanization and modernization, Nyong’o consistently lends her voice to fight against the destruction of historical buildings and landmarks. Her advocacy extends to education, where she awards scholarships and supports educational programs. As a De Beers Global Ambassador, Nyong’o is not only a celebrated actress but also a fierce force for women’s empowerment, children’s rights, and animal life preservation. Her tireless work continues to make a profound impact on both her industry and society.
#10. Thuso Mbedu
- Age: 33
- Profession: Actress
- Nationality: South African
From Is’Thunzi to The Woman King, Thuso Mbedu’s exceptional acting talents require no further affirmation. With accolades such as two Emmy nominations and a spot on Forbes’s 2018 30 Under 30 list, Mbedu’s rise to prominence has been both swift and undeniable. In 2021, she made her major international breakthrough in The Underground Railroad, a role that garnered her multiple awards and nominations. Through her craft, Mbedu has become a powerful force in the entertainment world, contributing significantly to the advancement of society.
The actress reflects on her journey, saying, “My aspiration is that my personal journey serves as a source of inspiration for fellow Africans, conveying a powerful message that transcends circumstances.” In addition to her acting achievements, Mbedu embraces fluidity in charity. She prefers being a catalyst for positive change rather than being limited to a specific form of good deeds. To this end, she partners with several organizations such as the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, Save The Children SA, and Door of Hope Children’s Missions. Through these collaborations, Mbedu continues to extend her influence, uplifting communities and being a blessing to others.
#9. Rgat Afewerki Ybrah
- Age: 23
- Profession: Beauty Queen
- Nationality: Ethiopian
As Miss World Ethiopia 2023, Rgat Afewerki Ybrah has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for Ethiopian women, earning her a place among the most beautiful African women of 2024. Passionate about her mission, Ybrah is determined to be a voice for Ethiopian women, aiming to lead them beyond beauty and into lives of purpose and fulfillment. Not only does she champion beauty, but she also works tirelessly to shatter the taboos and stereotypes surrounding menstruation. Through her efforts, Ybrah provides reusable sanitary pads and hygiene products while raising awareness about menstrual health, fostering important conversations in the process.
With a sharp focus on the diverse struggles faced by women across Ethiopia, Ybrah is dedicated to creating sustainable solutions and amplifying these women’s voices. Her campaign, #EthiopianWomenSpeak, serves as a platform for the untold stories of marginalized Ethiopian women, advocating for their betterment and creating opportunities for their upliftment. In all her endeavors, Ybrah continues to pave the way for positive change, standing as a powerful advocate for Ethiopian women’s rights and dignity.
#8. Yvonne Orji
- Age: 41
- Profession: Actress and Comedienne
- Nationality: Nigerian
Yvonne Orji is widely recognized for her role in Insecure, which earned her three NAACP Image Awards and an Emmy nomination. However, beyond her comedic talent and ability to bring laughter to audiences, Orji is also deeply committed to charitable work. For instance, she worked in post-conflict Liberia to help curb teen pregnancy and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Additionally, the actress is vocal about her faith and her journey of abstinence.
Moreover, her docuseries First Gen: First-Generational Narratives sparks important conversations surrounding racial and systemic change, particularly around first-generation immigrants and the role the media plays in their representation. With a clear purpose, Orji strategically uses her platform and storytelling abilities to initiate thought-provoking discussions that foster empathy, relatability, and positive change. Indeed, this Black beauty is more than just a pretty face; she’s a powerful instrument of change, constantly working to break down long-standing societal limitations.
#7. Tyla
- Age: 22
- Profession: Singer
- Nationality: South African
Tyla Laura Seethal is a South African singer whose 2023 single “Water” became an international sensation. According to Wikipedia, “Tyla was the youngest-ever South African and the first South African soloist in 55 years to enter the Billboard Hot 100.” Her incredible success continued as she received the 2024 Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance, making her the youngest African musician with a Grammy. Additionally, Tyla was the star girl at the 2024 BET Awards, walking away with the highest number of awards. She was also named Billboard’s Number One Afrobeats Artist of 2024.
It’s clear that one track can alter the trajectory of one’s life, and Tyla’s “Water” is a testament to that. With fans at every corner of the world, Tyla is introducing Afrobeats to the global stage on a whole new scale, further cementing her place as one of the most beautiful African women of 2024. Her success pushes the genre’s global marketability, breaking barriers and setting new standards for African artists worldwide.
#6. Snit Tewoldemedhin
- Age: 25
- Profession: Beauty Queen
- Nationality: Eritrean
Snit Tewoldemedhin, the first crowned Miss Universe Eritrea 2024, is not only a pageant queen but also a Neuroscience graduate and a certified Lead Guide at a Montessori school. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first Eritrean to win the title of Miss Africa USA. Tewoldemedhin’s achievements go far beyond physical beauty—she is a true representative of her nation and an embodiment of empowerment. One of our most beautiful African women of 2024, she is making waves across the globe, showcasing her intellect, passion, and dedication to the causes she holds dear.
Tewoldemedhin’s win was monumental, as it marked Eritrea’s opportunity to compete on the Miss Universe stage for the first time. This victory is not just a milestone in pageantry but a triumph for her nation as well. Alongside her pageant endeavors, Tewoldemedhin is a passionate advocate for children with special needs and education. Her inspiration comes from her sister, who has Down Syndrome, and she is committed to ensuring that children with disabilities have equal access to education and training.
As a Ladies First ambassador, she also promotes breast cancer awareness and champions for greater opportunities for women. With big dreams of building a school for children with disabilities, she is already taking actionable steps toward adapting curriculums and creating an inclusive educational environment. Tewoldemedhin is a shining example of how beauty and brains can unite to transform the world, one passion at a time.
#5. Sabrina Elba
- Age: 35
- Profession: Media Personality
- Nationality: Somalian
Wife to People Magazine’s one-time Sexiest Man Alive, Idris Elba, Sabrina Elba is much more than a stunning partner—she is a force in her own right. The actress, known for her roles in Three Thousand Years of Longing and White Mars, is also a beautypreneur and the founder of S’ABLE Labs, a skincare line designed specifically for melanin-rich skin. As a model and philanthropist, Elba uses her platform to elevate causes she is passionate about.
Her work as a UN Goodwill Ambassador for the International Fund for Agricultural Development since 2020 has been instrumental in her advocacy for rural women in developing communities. “We must tear down the barriers and inequalities that prevent rural women from escaping poverty and adapting to climate change,” Elba has said, and she lives by this ethos. She travels across rural African communities, including Kenya, Sierra Leone, Egypt, and Zambia, to raise support and awareness for farmers in climate-affected regions.
Elba’s impact has been recognized globally, with prestigious accolades such as the TIME100 Impact Award and The Crystal Award from the World Economic Forum. She is also an ambassador for Mothers2Mothers and a patron for S.T.O.R.M. Domestic Violence Charity. As one of the most beautiful African women of 2024, she continues to break boundaries and use her visibility to advocate for lasting change, embodying strength, purpose, and a commitment to giving back.
#4. Tems
- Age: 29
- Profession: Singer
- Nationality: Nigerian
Temilade Openiyi, better known as the Afrobeats star Tems, burst onto the global scene with her chart-topping collaboration with Wizkid on “Essence.” The song’s success opened doors to international recognition, earning her a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Performance. From there, her career skyrocketed, with notable awards including the BET Awards and NAACP Image Awards.
Tems continued to make waves, most recently with her cover of Bob Marley’s iconic “No Woman, No Cry” for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. Her collaborations with global superstars like Beyoncé, Future, Rihanna, and Drake have further solidified her place in the global music scene. Each of these projects brought her further acclaim, and she made history as the first African woman to receive the Billboard Women in Music Award in the Breakthrough category.
Heading into the 2025 Grammy Awards with three nominations, Tems has already surpassed expectations, with eight nominations and one win under her belt. Her Grammy win came for her contribution to Future’s “Wait For U,” and she also became the first African artist to top the Billboard Hot 100. Tems made history again as the first Nigerian and female African artist to win the Best International Act category at the 2022 BET Awards.
Beyond her music, Tems uses her platform to give back. She runs a yearly wardrobe cleanout, donating the proceeds to the Women at Risk International Foundation. As one of the most beautiful African women of 2024, she continues to inspire and lead, serving as a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and uplifting African sound on the global stage.
#3. Sakhile Dube
- Age: 27
- Profession: Beauty Queen
- Nationality: Zimbabwean
Since 2015, Sakhile Dube has been on an extraordinary winning streak, starting with her title as Miss Inyathi in Bulawayo. She went on to win Miss Tourism Zimbabwe in 2020 and has since added more prestigious titles to her name, including her current reign as Miss Universe Zimbabwe. While pageantry is the platform that launched her fame, the model is much more than a beauty queen—she wears many hats.
Dube is also a psychotherapist and fashionpreneur, demonstrating her versatile talents across multiple fields. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is deeply committed to philanthropy. Having grown up as an orphan, she is passionate about advocating for equal opportunities for orphaned and vulnerable children. Through her Zibusiso Foundation, she drives mentorship programs and skill acquisition training that empower orphaned children to thrive in today’s competitive world.
These programs not only equip orphans with practical, money-making skills but also boost their self-esteem and confidence, ensuring they are empowered to shape their futures. Dube’s impact, both in her community and beyond, shows that beauty queens like her are much more than pretty faces—they are forces of change, dedicated to making a difference.
#2. Anok Yai
- Age: 26
- Profession: Super Model
- Nationality: South Sudanese
Anok Yai is an Egyptian-born model of South Sudanese descent who has quickly become one of the most in-demand supermodels since her discovery at Howard University in 2018. Her journey to stardom began when a photographer posted a random picture of her on Instagram, which garnered over 20,000 likes overnight, leading to numerous modeling agencies reaching out to Yai. That same year, she made history by opening the Prada AW show as the second Black woman to do so in nearly two decades, following Naomi Campbell’s iconic appearance in 1997.
Since then, Yai’s career has skyrocketed, with her walking the runways for elite fashion houses like Mugler and Versace, and gracing the covers of top magazines such as Vogue. She has also appeared as a video vixen and at prestigious events. Despite her success, Yai uses her platform to advocate against colorism and systemic racism in the fashion industry, standing as a beacon for inclusivity.
Her story is a true testament to resilience, a “grace to grass” journey, as she went from being a refugee to becoming one of the most coveted supermodels in the world. Although she lost the Model of the Year award at the 2024 British Fashion Council to Alex Consani, the first transgender model to win the award, it sparked racial conversations on Twitter (X). However, Yai’s impact transcends the validation of awards. She has been ranked as the Most Beautiful Woman on Earth and is considered one of the most expensive models in the industry. As one of the most beautiful African women of 2024, Yai’s success challenges stereotypes and encourages a push for greater inclusivity in fashion.
This year, she made her debut as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, walking the runway with her signature strut. With each step, Anok Yai is redefining the standards of beauty and modeling.
#1. Chidinma Adetshina
- Age: 23
- Profession: Beauty Queen
- Nationality: Nigerian
Soweto-born Chidinma Adetshina is the current titleholder of Miss Universe Nigeria and the first runner-up at the 2024 Miss Universe competition. Initially, she signed up for Miss Universe South Africa but, amid scrutiny surrounding her eligibility and citizenship due to her mother’s nationality, Adetshina withdrew from the competition after investigations raised concerns. This situation reignited discussions around xenophobia and inclusivity, as the Miss South Africa pageant team had believed she qualified. Despite her rejection, the persevering queen competed and won Miss Universe Nigeria, overcoming numerous challenges and doubts.
Adetshina faced significant bullying on social media, particularly from South Africans. This controversy shifted the trajectory of her career, prompting her decision to retire from pageantry and focus on education. In addition to her pageant success, she was crowned Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, marking the highest ranking ever achieved by a Nigerian contestant in the history of the Miss Universe pageant.
Adetshina’s journey exemplifies perseverance in the face of adversity and her transition to a new chapter reflects her resilience and commitment to education, inspiring many along the way. Indeed, for her grace in the face of adversity, she tops our list of the most beautiful women in Africa for 2024.
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