Alex Consani, a 21-year-old transgender model and influencer, was crowned Model of the Year at the prestigious British Fashion Awards in London, triumphing over five shortlisted women.

Consani, known for her striking bleached hair and eyebrows, began her modeling career in 2015. Standing at 6 feet tall, the American model received the accolade at a star-studded ceremony, reflecting the British Fashion Council’s (BFC) commitment to recognizing individuals from LGBTQ and other underrepresented groups in the fashion industry.

The other nominees included British model Alva Claire, Los Angeles native Amelia Gray, South Sudanese model Anok Yai, Chinese supermodel Liu Wen, and Mona Tougaard, who has Danish, Turkish, Somali, and Ethiopian heritage.

The BFC stated that the Model of the Year award acknowledges “the global impact of a model who, over the last 12 months, has dominated the industry,” celebrating contributions that extend beyond the runway through editorial and advertising campaigns.

After being presented the award by model Ashley Graham and actor Nava Mau, Consani joked, “I am the first trans model to win this award,” before addressing the importance of fostering inclusivity within the fashion industry.

“Now more than ever, it’s crucial to support and uplift one another, especially those who have been made to feel insignificant,” Consani remarked during her acceptance speech. “Change isn’t just possible—it’s necessary, and this moment is a step in the right direction.”