New Delhi, Nov. 6 -- Sudanese-American supermodel's landmark win marks a new era in fashion diversity and influence.

For young models and creators who watch the industry from city sidewalks and small studios, Anok Yai's rise has long seemed to narrate a modest miracle: viral fame converted into sustained runway credibility. She has opened for major houses and become an advertising face for global brands, a trajectory that would have been remarkable in any era but feels pointed in ours because of how the industry still struggles to translate symbolic gestures into structural change. For a local report tying those runway moments to seasonal reviews, read Prada's historic runway moments in The Eastern Herald's coverage.

Fashion is a busine...