Nyadak “Duckie” Thot is a prominent South Sudanese–Australian model who has made significant strides in the fashion industry. She first gained national attention as a contestant on the eighth cycle of Australia’s Next Top Model, where she finished in third place. This experience ignited her passion for modeling, leading her to pursue opportunities beyond her home country. In 2016, she made her runway debut for David Jones, but faced challenges in securing bookings due to the limited opportunities for models of color in Australia.
Determined to succeed, Thot relocated to Brooklyn, New York, where she quickly garnered attention from multiple modeling agencies. She signed with New York Model Management and soon caught the eye of Kanye West, who invited her to shoot a magazine cover and walk in the Yeezy Spring/Summer 2017 show. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her international modeling career, allowing her to showcase her talent on a global stage.
Thot’s career continued to flourish as she became a global ambassador for L’Oreal Paris and participated in high-profile campaigns for brands such as Fenty Beauty, Moschino, and Balmain. Her role as Alice in the 2018 Pirelli Calendar, shot by Tim Walker, was a defining moment that elevated her status in the industry, showcasing her ability to represent diversity and inclusion in fashion.
In addition to her modeling achievements, Thot has been an outspoken advocate for diversity in the fashion industry, emphasizing the importance of representation. She has inspired many with her journey, proving that with determination and resilience, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. Duckie Thot continues to break barriers and redefine beauty standards, making her a role model for aspiring models worldwide.