South African rising star, Tyla, has made waves as the first African artist to perform at the prestigious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, marking a historic moment in both her career and the brand’s evolving journey toward greater inclusivity. The return of the iconic show follows a multi-year hiatus after facing criticism for its lack of diversity and outdated views on representation, most notably when former marketing chief Ed Razek made dismissive remarks about trans women being “unsuitable” for the show’s angels.
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Victoria’s Secret has since rebranded its image, focusing on celebrating women of all identities and backgrounds. This year’s show featured an all-female lineup of performers, including Tyla, underscoring the brand’s mission to empower women and embrace a more inclusive vision. Tyla’s performance signifies a pivotal moment, not only for her as an artist but for African representation on global stages.
Her inclusion represents a bold move by Victoria’s Secret to connect with the diverse, culturally rich voices that resonate with today’s audiences. By featuring a talent like Tyla, the brand demonstrates its renewed commitment to diversity and its effort to rebuild trust among its audience.