American model Alex Consani has become the first transgender woman to win the Model of the Year award at the British Fashion Council’s Fashion Awards.
Consani, who previously made history as the youngest transgender model to be signed and the first trans Victoria’s Secret Angel, received the award at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
In her acceptance speech, Consani thanked Black trans women like Dominique Jackson, Connie Fleming, and Aaron Rose Phillips for paving the way, and urged parents to support their trans children.
The 21-year-old has gained significant influence both on the catwalk and via her TikTok account, where she offers an honest look at life as a model. Despite predictable backlash online, Consani’s win marks a significant milestone for the fashion industry, pushing boundaries for greater inclusion and visibility.
Alex Consani’s acceptance speech
In her acceptance speech at the British Fashion Council’s 2024 Fashion Awards, Alex Consani expressed profound gratitude and called for greater inclusivity in the fashion industry. She began by acknowledging her historic achievement: “I’m the first trans woman to win this award!”
Consani then paid tribute to the Black trans women who paved the way for her success: “I can’t accept this award without thanking those who came before me, specifically the Black trans women who really fought for the space I’m in today—Dominique Jackson, Connie Fleming, Aaron Rose Philip, and countless more who fought for the space that allowed me to flourish today.”
She also expressed appreciation for her family’s support and urged other parents to embrace their transgender children, before adding, “Now, more than ever, it’s an important conversation that should be had about how to truly support and uplift one another within this industry, especially those who have been made to feel insignificant.”
Highlighting the necessity for progress within the industry, Consani concluded: “Change is more than possible; it’s needed.”
Her speech was met with enthusiastic applause.