CHOL KHAN

5' ELEVEN''
Sep 17
3 min read

Chol Khan’s story is the stuff of fashion legends. Fleeing her native South Sudan with her family at an early age, the Kahns settled in Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya (the same ground that produced supers like Iman, Adut Akech and Alek Wek). In 2023, she was scouted by Isis Models, a model agency working with UNHCR and the Kenyan government to spotlight talent from the camp. Two years on, Khan graced the runways of heavyweights like Thom Browne, Hermès and Schiaparelli, in what was described as “the cleanest breakout in fashion.”

Interview by Maya Avram.

Photographed by Conor Clarke. Styled by Charly Suggett. Makeup by Quelle Bester using Shiseido. Hair by Charles Stanley using CHANEL Coco Mademoiselle Hair Perfume. Chol appears courtesy of Select Model Management.

After getting scouted, you went on to win Africa’s Next Super Model (ANSM). What was that experience like?

I was very nervous at the time, but also excited at the prospect of what this competition could mean for my future. I haven’t done anything like that before, and I was up against 18 other girls, so the pressure was on. Winning was such an incredible experience, one I’ll never forget. I’m still in touch with many of the models from the competition, we are all spread across Europe and sometimes get to work together.

Winning ANSM catapulted you to the heart of global fashion. How did you prepare for the journey, and do you feel settled in your new life?

I was super shy when I first got scouted, and Isis, my mother agency in Kenya, trained me ahead of moving abroad. They taught me everything from how to walk down the runway and style myself, to how to prep and care for my hair and skin and maintain a healthy diet. I’m learning new skills with every job that I book, and am working on my French and Italian.

Looking back, I can see how much I’ve grown, because today it all feels very natural. I love living in London and have lots of friends in the city. I also enjoy the travelling part of the job, which was daunting at first, but has now become second nature. I’m loving this stage of my career and am excited to see what’s next.

Pearl necklace by CompletedWorks. Pique jersey tank top and pique jersey trousers, both by Toga Pulla.

When you’re en route, what helps you stay grounded?

Talking to my family and friends back home. I have two brothers and four sisters who keep me busy with constant FaceTimes and WhatsApps. I love hearing about their lives and getting a reminder of home life. Their love and support keep me motivated.

What is something about you that might surprise people?

I grew up helping to cook for my family, and I make amazing Kisra, which is a South Sudanese crepe.

What are some of the highlights, challenges, and pinch-me moments from your career so far?

It would have to be winning ANSM, which was a dream come true. More recently, it’s walking the Thom Browne fall/winter 2024 show. I wore the most amazing outfit, a gold-detailed jacket and white skirt — I wish I could wear them every day. Another highlight is my latest campaign for Mulberry that just came out in print. I accidentally flicked past it and had to go back, I couldn’t believe it was me.