21-year-old Somali-American model Halima Aden is breaking ground as the FIRST Hijab-wearing model to grace Sports Illustrated! And even more surprisingly, Sports Illustrated’s SWIMSUIT ISSUE! Aden was born in Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp and lived there before moving to the US when she was 7.
Out May 8, the issue features Aden wearing both a traditional Hijab as well as a Burkini – a form of swimwear that meets the modesty standards of the Muslim faith. Aden discusses making history in the mag, saying: “This feature is proving that a fully covered hijab wearing model can confidently stand alongside a beautiful woman in a revealing bikini and together they can celebrate one another, cheer each other on, and champion each other’s successes.”
On being in the issue, Aden adds: “SI Swimsuit has been at the forefront of changing the narrative and conversation on social issues and preconceived notions. I’m hoping this specific feature will open doors up for my Somali community, Muslim community, refugee community and any other community that can relate to being different.” Take a look at photos from her Sports Illustrated shoot below and let us know: DO YOU THINK HALIMA ADEN LIKES SWIMMING? ARE YOU GOING TO BUY A BURKINI NOW? For more click here.
