Model Anok Yai, Who Was First Discovered at Howard’s Homecoming, Shined Brightly at the Met Gala

On fashion’s biggest night, the MET Gala was packed with a star-studded lineup of actresses, models, and celebrities. Among them, one name sparkled brighter than the rest: Anok Yai.

Her journey from a memorable moment at an HBCU homecoming to the illustrious MET Gala is truly inspiring. In 2017, Yai, then a sophomore at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire, took part in the festivities at Howard University’s homecoming, as detailed by HBCU Pulse. It was during their lively Yardfest event that photographer Steven Hall snapped a candid photo of Yai, later sharing it on his Instagram.

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The post quickly gained momentum, racking up likes from 13,000 to nearly 29,000 in no time. Yai’s Instagram following experienced a similar surge, jumping from a modest 300 to an impressive 50,000 within days.

This sudden attention not only captured the public’s interest but also caught the eye of renowned modeling agencies, leading to invitations for in-person interviews.

The moment changed the trajectory of her life, and Yai is now a successful international model. This week, she stunned at the Met Gala, hitting the green carpet in a form-fitting Swarosvski ombre one-piece.