Adwoa Aboah: The Model Redefining Beauty and Advocacy

Adwoa Caitlin Maria Aboah, born on May 18, 1992, in London, England, is a British fashion model, actress, and activist who has become a global icon in the fashion industry and a trailblazer for mental health advocacy. Known for her striking appearance—marked by her shaved head and freckles—and her openness about personal struggles, Adwoa has used her platform to inspire change, empower women, and challenge societal norms. Beyond her modeling achievements, she is the founder of Gurls Talk, an online community dedicated to mental health and feminism. Her journey is one of resilience, creativity, and empowerment.

Key Information About Adwoa Aboah

Early Life and Childhood

Adwoa Aboah was born into a creative and culturally rich family in Westminster, London. Her father, Charles Aboah, is Ghanaian and worked as a location scout, while her mother, Camilla Lowther, is a British photography agent from a noble lineage. The name “Adwoa” reflects her Ghanaian heritage and means “born on Monday” in Akan.

Growing up alongside her younger sister Kesewa Aboah—who also became a model—Adwoa was exposed to the world of fashion from an early age. Her maternal family ties to British nobility added another layer of cultural depth to her upbringing. Despite this privileged background, Adwoa faced significant challenges during her youth, including struggles with mental health.

Education

Adwoa attended Millfield School in Somerset before pursuing higher education at Brunel University in London. She graduated with a degree in Modern Drama in 2013. During her university years, she joined the National Youth Theatre and developed a passion for acting. Her academic background in drama later influenced her career as both an actress and a public speaker.

Professional Achievements

Modeling Career

Adwoa’s modeling career began when she signed with Storm Model Management at the age of 16. Her unique look quickly made her a favorite among designers and photographers. Over the years, she has worked with some of the biggest names in fashion:

• Campaigns: Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs Beauty, Dior, Burberry
• Runway Shows: Chanel, Versace, Fendi
• Magazine Covers: British Vogue, American Vogue, Vogue Italia, i-D

In 2017, Adwoa was named “Model of the Year” by models.com and won the same title at the British Fashion Awards.

Acting Career

Adwoa made her acting debut in the Sundance-winning film To Get Her (2011). She later appeared in Ghost in the Shell (2017) alongside Scarlett Johansson and starred in TV series such as Top Boy (2022–2023).

Advocacy Work

In 2015, Adwoa founded Gurls Talk, an online platform aimed at destigmatizing mental health issues among young women. The initiative provides resources for discussing topics like body image, addiction recovery, and feminism.

Awards and Recognition

• Model of the Year (2017) – models.com
• British GQ Woman of the Year (2017)
• Forbes’ 30 Under 30 List
• Featured on TIME Magazine’s “Next Generation Leaders” cover
• Listed on Powerlist’s Most Influential Black Britons

Chronological Timeline of Life Events

1. 1992: Born in Westminster, London.
2. 2008: Signed with Storm Model Management at age 16.
3. 2011: Made acting debut in To Get Her.
4. 2013: Graduated from Brunel University.
5. 2015: Founded Gurls Talk.
6. 2017: Named Model of the Year; appeared on British Vogue cover.
7. 2020: Listed among Powerlist’s Most Influential Black Britons.
8. 2024: Gave birth to daughter Shy Trinity Afua Wheatley.

Cultural and Social Background

Adwoa’s multicultural heritage—Ghanaian on her father’s side and British nobility on her mother’s side—has deeply influenced her identity. She often speaks about embracing diversity and challenging Eurocentric beauty standards within the fashion industry.

Her openness about mental health issues resonates with many young women worldwide. By sharing her personal experiences with depression and addiction recovery, she has become a relatable figure for those struggling with similar challenges.

Relationships

Adwoa is currently in a relationship with Daniel Wheatley. The couple welcomed their first child together—a daughter named Shy Trinity Afua Wheatley—in August 2024.

Hobbies and Interests

Adwoa enjoys reading feminist literature, practicing yoga for mindfulness, and engaging in creative projects like photography. She is also passionate about public speaking and mentoring young women through Gurls Talk events.

Quotes by Adwoa Aboah

1. “Mental health isn’t all of me but it’s a massive part of my journey.”
2. “Diversity shouldn’t be about ticking boxes; it’s about real representation.”
3. “I shaved my head as a statement—it was my way of reclaiming myself.”
4. “Girls need connection; that’s why I started Gurls Talk.”
5. “The industry must do better at representing all types of beauty.”

Did You Know?

1. Adwoa’s name means “born on Monday” in Akan.
2. She was immortalized as a Barbie doll for its “Shero” collection.
3. She interned with makeup artist Pat McGrath before becoming famous.
4. Adwoa overcame a ketamine addiction during her teenage years.
5. She attempted suicide in 2015 but recovered after intensive treatment.
6. Her shaved head became one of her defining features.
7. She has walked for Chanel and Versace multiple times.
8. Adwoa is related to Ghanaian politician William Kwasi Aboah.
9. She appeared as a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs The World.
10. TIME Magazine featured her as one of its “Next Generation Leaders.”

Adwoa Aboah’s life story is one of resilience and transformation. From battling personal demons to becoming one of the most influential figures in fashion and advocacy today, she continues to inspire millions worldwide through her work with Gurls Talk, modeling achievements, and activism for mental health awareness. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and courage in making meaningful change across industries and communities alike.

References

1. Adwoa Aboah – Wikipedia
2. Adwoa Aboah Biography – Catwalk Yourself
3. Adwoa Aboah | BoF 500 | The People Shaping the Global Fashion Industry
4. Team | Gurls Talk
5. Adwoa Aboah on Beauty and Self-Care – Harper’s Bazaar
6. Adwoa Aboah: “Once I Had Done the Work…” – The Stack World
7. Adwoa Aboah on Diversity, Activism, and Self-Love – Byrdie