A new generation of supermodels is here. With maximum visibility, they’re dominating the world’s runways, magazine covers, social media feeds and iPhone screens. Digitally omnipresent in today’s modern and connected world, the new wave of top-tier models is virtually unstoppable. As summer rolls in, they prepare for some well-deserved rest and relaxation—even in the face of COVID-19.

V celebrates the legendary, editorial footprint of South Sudanese-Australian supermodel Adut Akech. A face to watch, the fashion icon appears on the cover of V125, lensed by Inez and Vinoodh and styled by George Cortina. Named ‘Model of the Year’ by the British Fashion Council last December, Akech now regularly closes the most prestigious shows and fronts high-fashion campaigns across the globe. V spoke with the world-class muse about her summer dreams, her taste in music, and her hopes for the future. Pre-order your own copy of V125, here.

Read the full interview, below.

V MAGAZINE Where are you from?

Adut Akech I’m from Australia.

V How would you describe the summer of your dreams?

AA The summer of my dreams would be me laying by the poolside in some sexy bikinis reading a book. Eating some mangos, watermelon, and pineapple.

V What is the ultimate summer song?

AA The ultimate summer song is “No Letting Go” by Wayne Wonder.

V Where are you aching to travel to this summer? Why?

AA This summer I’m aching to travel to Jamaica, Saint Lucia or Barbados because they are dream locations to go visit and why not in summer ??‍♀️

V What is on your summer reading list?

AA I’m not sure yet. I’m always coming across new books. It’s really whatever catches my attention.

V What is your favorite summer memory?

AA December 2019, summer in Australia. Playing in my pool with my siblings at my mum’s house.

V When you’re not modeling, what are you up to?

AA When I’m not modeling, I’m either spending time with friends or I’m back home to Australia to spend time with my family. You can find me in the kitchen cooking up a storm, out and about hanging with my siblings, laying on the couch watching movies on Netflix or something in my little world, writing.

V Do you have a hidden talent? What would people be surprised to hear?

AA I think my hidden talent is the ability to sleep on any flights. I can sleep about 20 hours out of a 24-hour flight to Australia ?

V How would you describe the current wave of models/generation?

AA We are the future.  

V How do you feel in front of the camera?

AA In front of the camera I feel free. Most times I know I can be as creative as I want to be with my movements in posing.

V What do you hope for this year?

AA I hope for the rest of this year to be much better than right now. I wish everyone around the world to be safe.