Ajak Deng is leaving the modeling industry for good, if a recent Instagram post is to be believed. The 26-year-old Australian model posted to her social media account on Tuesday that she is “officially done with the fashion industry”. Deng, who walked in New York Fashion Week just a few days ago for Marc Jacobs, Zac Posen, Tome and other designers appeared to make the decision abruptly.
Ajak Deng Quits Modeling
To her Instagram followers, Ajak wrote, “Put your best foot forward. I am happy to announce that I am officially done with the fashion industry, I will be moving back to Australia In order to live the life that I fully deserved. “ She continues, “Which is real life. I can no longer deal with the fakes and the lies. My life is too short for this dramatic life. I am thankful and grateful for every sweet souls that I have crossed path with.”
Although Ajak did not give a specific reason to what caused her decision, her agent Stephan Bucknall said in a statement, “Ajak has said to me many times, it saddens her there isn’t more work for dark skinned girls in Australia, as she would like to book more work here.”
“They’ll book the big caucasian girls, spend the big dollars, and fly them in from LA, but I’m yet to see them book a dark skinned girl in that way.”
Ajak Deng – Modeling Highlights
We can not say that we are happy to see Ajak go, as one of the industry’s few black top models, she will surely be missed. From campaigns to covers, take a look at some of Ajak Deng’s recent modeling work below.
this is so sad. i am such a fan. i hate she played the race card but it is true. black models do not get the same treatment. that is exactly the reason she should keep working. keep fighting. i am white and i am so sick of racism in this world.
Since it’s true (which you readily admit), she didn’t play a race card. She chose not to continue to subject herself to being treated as if she isn’t as talented or beautiful as anyone with lighter or white skin. She shouldn’t have to fight and if she decided that she wants to lead a life of peace, I can’t say I blame her. It can become so discouraging always having to fight for every inch. Her photos are stunning and her beauty is universally undeniable. She doesn’t have to fight for something gifted by God.