DUBAI: Dutch Palestinian model Bella Hadid was named this week as one of “the most influential people in the world” by New York-based magazine Time.
The 26-year-old supermodel took to Instagram to say that she was “proud” to be selected and to join the 2023 list alongside other “talented, hard-working and life-changing people.
“These are human beings challenging government systems, inventing world-changing products, and being a light for many, in a world of darkness,” she said on Instagram to her 59 million followers.
Hadid, who made her runway debut aged 17, opened up about the responsibility she felt after being included in the Time list.
“The truth is, to say I am anywhere near as influential as some of these big names, is a huge statement to make, but please know, I can feel the weight and understand my responsibilities within it,” she said. “To be recognized for the work I’ve done, just makes me want to work harder to be a part of the change we want to see in this world. I know my mission is much larger than what I have even touched the surface on now, and I will continue to fight until change has been made.”
Hadid, who is the daughter of property developer Mohamed Hadid and “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Yolanda Hadid, promised her supporters to continue to advocate for mental health and chronic illness support, spread a message of kindness and shed light on the refugee crisis and “systematic operation.”
She added: “Helping others is my passion and I will never stop, no matter what. It’s important for me to always speak my truth, and be as genuine as I can with you all.”