The 25-year-old supermodel revealed on Wednesday that she will donate her fashion week profits in 2022 to Ukrainian relief efforts. The announcement came just weeks after Russian President Vladimir Putin started a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to the United Nations, more than 500 civilians have died and almost 1,000 have been injured as a result of the fighting; however, analysts estimate the death toll is likely far higher.
“To watch my Ukrainian friends and colleagues working hard here in Europe, so close but so far from their families/friends/homes in Ukraine who are experiencing one of many brutal occupations and invasions happening right now in the world is a very emotional and humbling experience for me,” Bella wrote on Instagram. “We rarely have control of our work schedules and this week has really shown me the strength and perseverance of the people around me who are going through pure terror. To hear their stories and emotions first hand is devastating and I wholeheartedly stand with them in support. I stand along side every person that has been affected by this war and the innocent people who’s lives have been changed forever from the hands of ‘power.’”
She concluded her message by listing countries that have been devastated by war, military occupations, and “power trippers.” The nations included Yemen, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Haiti, Myanmar, Somalia, and Lebanon.
Bella Hadid follows in the footsteps of her elder sister, Gigi Hadid, who committed to contribute her fashion week profits to organizations that help Ukrainians and Palestinians with medical and humanitarian issues.