Professionally known as Iman, Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid, is one of the most recognized models of 1970s and '80s. She is a Somali-American model as well as an entrepreneur. Iman has used her entrepreneurial skills greatly in the fashion universe, with her own cosmetics business. A pioneer in the arena of ethnic cosmetics, she is also renowned for her charitable work.
Discovered while studying at Nairobi University, Iman started her career as an international model and later became a successful entrepreneur. Her ventures include skincare, cosmetics and fragrance. Home Shopping Network (HSN) sells her Global Chic line of handbags and fashion accessories. Her first modeling assignment was for Vogue in 1976. Soon, she established herself as a supermodel featuring on some of the most prestigious magazine covers. During her 14 years as a high fashion model, Iman worked with many notable photographers.
Iman's hugely successful catwalk career as a model ended in 1989 when she retired from the industry for focusing on other ventures, such as her wildly popular books, makeup brands and HSN clothing lines. After facing several challenges being a black model, Iman launched her own cosmetics firm, Iman Cosmetics, in 1994, focusing on difficult-to-find shades for ethnic women. Mixing her years of experience with her formulations for make-up artists, she had a personal hand in the final product and also acted as the commercial face of the company.
Due to her high profile and marketability, Iman was approached by the CEO of the HSN in 2007, for starting a clothing design line. After some cajoling, she agreed, starting with one-size-fits-all and embroidered kaftans inspired by her childhood and modeling. The clothes were huge a success for her.
As of today, her Iman Cosmetics is a $25-million-a-year business which is centered on $14.99 foundations in 14 shades and 4 formulations. Her Global Chic collection is one of the best-selling items among over 200 jewelry and fashion brands on HSN, evolving into a line of affordable accessories.
Being a successful business woman, the two constants in Iman's life are the roles she takes most seriously – a protective and devoted mom to her two daughters and a supportive wife of her husband. Still radiant at 55, she has a grounded approach to work, life, love and family. Evolving as model to actress to business mogul to newly-appointed reality star, the 55-year old stunner remains self-assured, fearless and as iconic as ever. In an industry abundant with supermodels, Iman was and still is an innovator and a game-changer.
