Alek.: The extraordinary life of a Sudanese Refugee

(Paperback)

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Description

Alek Wek, Supermodel, campaigner, spokesperson and entrepreneur, tells her amazing story, from war-torn Sudan to the catwalks of London, Paris and New York

Alek Wek grew up in the Sudan in the midst of the vicious civil war. Now, at age 28, she is one of the most sought-after supermodels in the world, and has single-handedly changed the traditional concept of what is beautiful in the West. As model, refugee activist and businesswoman she is an inspiration - and this remarkable real-life story sheds light on her journey from Dinka tribal roots in war-torn Sudan to a new beginnings in Brooklyn. Born the seventh of nine siblings, on her escape to London at the age of fourteen she had already lived through violence, genocide and forced migration in her homeland. Alek Wek's poignant, powerful memoir gives an unforgettable insight into her rise to fame as a supermodel with a conscience, who balances cover shoots for glossy magazines (she was named Model of The Decade by i-D magazine) with political activism (working with Doctors Without Borders and the U.S. Committee for Refugees Advisory Council) and a dedication to refocus the world's attention on those she left behind.

Reviews

'Moving and honest-a facinating look at the modelling industry.' INSTYLE 'Readers will be disarmed by the down-to-earth, intimate voice in which she narrates her stratospheric rise...A celebrity autobiography with substance and political punch' KIRKUS 'An inspirational and compelling read' ELLE 'This remarkable story is . . . truly inspirational' IRISH TATLER

Author Bio

Alek Wek was raised as part of the Dinka clan in Southern Sudan before coming to London, where she was spotted by a talent scout. Now a successful supermodel, she also runs her own handbag company, AlexWek1933.