Bethann Hardison

Bethann Hardison former fitting model and partner with Designer Willi Smith, also worked as a runway and print model for other designers during the 1970s. In 1984 she founded Bethann Management which handled most of the black models in fashion, as well as her son Kadeem Hardison. Model Tyson Beckford was one of her biggest clients, signing a lucrative contract with Ralph Lauren under her guidance.

Holding many titles in this fickle industry, Bethann is most known for her activist role in trying to increase African American visibility in the fashion world and the consistent onset of media images the industry generates annually. In 1988, Bethann formed Black Girls Coalition with Iman and others and to this day they continue to fight for more opportunities for people of color, behind the scenes and in front of the camera.

"I'd like to think I'm here to make a difference"- Bethann Hardison Vibe Magazine 1995

We should be empowered by Bethann's efforts and continue to work as hard as her and others, to continue to leave out mark in this industry!

Liya Kebede, Iman, Bethann Hardison, Naomi Campbell