Role model Imaan Hammam supports girls’ education drive
Dutch-Moroccan-Egyptian model Imaan Hammam took to Instagram this week to reflect on her experience as the new ambassador for She’s The First, a USbased charity that seeks to support girls’ access to education around the world.
The charity teams up with 12 local organizations in 11 countries, all of which ensure that girls stay on track to complete 12 years of education in countries including Ethiopia, India, Nepal, Peru, Tanzania and The Gambia.
The model spent a week in The Gambia and met with girls and mentors to hear their stories.
“I’ve been reflecting on an incredible week in The Gambia in my new role as ambassador for @ shesthefirst,” Hammam posted on Instagram, alongside a series of photos in which she can be seen deep in conversation, and posing with women from the program. “As part of my learning trip, I was able to hear from girls and mentors at @starfishintl about what matters most to them: Having a voice in their own futures. I’m learning how connected we all really are and am so excited to take my first actions as an ambassador for girls’ rights this October! So grateful to be on this journey,” she added, referring to Gambian organization Starfish International which has partnered with She’s The First. Hammam, who has walked the runway for the likes of Versace and has appeared on countless magazine covers, recently shared the news that she can trace her roots back to various areas of the African continent. The model was one of Vogue Italia’s July cover stars in an issue that focuses on themes of identity and genetics and she took to social media in July to reveal interesting results after taking a DNA test for her magazine feature. “A dream come true! My first ever @ vogueitalia cover and it’s a very, very special cover for me because it’s all about DNA. I’ve done my DNA test to find out more about my roots and heritage! Finding out that I am 70% Egyptian — which I kinda knew — and 10% Sudanese and 7.6% Senegambian and Guinean (sic),” Hammam posted on Instagram, alongside a shot of her magazine cover.
“I’m only 22 (and) knowing where I come from will help me understand who I am,” the model told Vogue Italia, adding “Islam taught me that regardless of the blood, we’re all sons of the world.”