Model · Philanthropist · Mentor · Builder · Turkana

Mimi ni Ajuma.

My story

For over 20 years

The world knows me as a high-fashion model, working with brands like Vivienne Westwood, Marc Jacobs and Victoria's Secret.

These days, I'm even more excited about creating opportunities for others as I am about walking runways.

Ajuma on the Victoria's Secret runway

Where it began

I never planned any of this.

I was born in Turkana to a teenage mum. A Swedish aid worker sponsored my education in Nairobi.

Back then, athletics was my dream. I even found myself training at Kipchoge's camp in Eldoret. Imagine that.

Then someone suggested I should try modelling.

That one conversation changed my life.

Ajuma lying on her back in a fashion portrait

“Life has a funny way of introducing you to yourself.”

A few moments along the way

Some milestones in my life.

  1. 01Kenya Athletics 400m Junior Champion
  2. 02Miss Tourism Kenya — Miss Nairobi
  3. 03First Black winner — Ford Supermodel of the World
  4. 04First (bald!) Black model to walk for Victoria's Secret
  5. 05Complex magazine World's 10 Most Beautiful Women
  6. 06African Lifestyle Influencer for Philanthropy 2020
Ajuma in traditional dress and jewellery

Behind the moments.

A reminder

My journey didn't belong to me alone.

On the 5th of August 2026, my son posted 2 TikTok videos.

What happened next reminded me that my journey had never really been mine alone.

01Elliot's first post
Elliot's first TikTok post, My mum now
02Elliot's second post
Elliot's second TikTok post, My mum 2006
17M

views — and counting

Watch the video

Recognition went viral

People remember how I made them feel.

Maybe that's the real gift.

Not just being recognized. But being remembered.

Making Kenyans feel proud.

Ajuma in profile wearing traditional jewellery
Ajuma smiling, holding a flower to her nose

Perspective

I've been very lucky.

I've met extraordinary people.

Worked with extraordinary brands.

Seen extraordinary places.

“And the older I get, the more I realize good fortune comes with responsibility.”

Ajuma with schoolgirls holding exercise books

That's why Ajuma Foundation exists.

Learn more about the Foundation →

Some days I'm in a boardroom.

Some days I'm in a classroom.

I've got to admit … I like one more than the other.

Ajuma celebrating with students in a classroom
The Ajuma Naturals product lineup

Looking forward

I'm exploring
a new journey.

Inspired by Africa's natural ingredients, crafted into beautiful, locally-made products.

Shop Botanics
The Ajuma Naturals product lineup

Looking forward

I'm exploring
a new journey.

Inspired by Africa's natural ingredients, crafted into beautiful, locally-made products.

Ajuma Face the Day
Ajuma Face the Night
Ajuma Under Eyes
Ajuma Over Lips
Shop Botanics
Ajuma smiling with her arms raised

Always part of me

I still love fashion.

People sometimes ask if I miss modelling.

The truth is, fashion gave me much more than a career.

It taught me discipline. Grace. Preparation. Confidence.

Those lessons never leave you.

And if we work together

Let's create something that genuinely matters.

I hope our runways cross.