The global fashion scene had a whole lot to celebrate this year. From Indian roots to Sri Lankan heritage and a beautiful blend of cultures, four models made their mark at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2026, reminding young people across South Asia that their dreams can take them far beyond borders.
Held on 18 October at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California, the highly anticipated show brought together international modelling stars, spectacular runway looks and live musical performances. Among the highlights were Ravleen Varghese, Neelam Gill, Luna Yohannan and Elina Gunawardena, whose journeys brought different stories of representation, perseverance and cultural pride to the global stage.
Ravleen Varghese: From Kerala to the Victoria’s Secret Runway
For 25-year-old Ravleen Varghese, the show marked a major milestone as she made her Victoria’s Secret runway debut. Originally from Kodumon in Kerala, India, Ravleen moved to Delhi at 18 to study design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
Modelling was not initially part of her plans, but being discovered by a talent agency opened the door to an unexpected career.
Her journey eventually led her to international fashion opportunities, including New York Fashion Week and collaborations with established designers. Walking the Victoria’s Secret runway in two different looks was another significant step in her growing career.
Ravleen’s story is a reminder that our first plans do not always determine our final destination. Sometimes, being open to unexpected opportunities can lead us towards something we never imagined possible.
Neelam Gill: Bringing a Touch of Desi Glamour
British Indian model Neelam Gill returned to the Victoria’s Secret runway for the third consecutive year, showing that success is not only about making an entrance but also about continuing to grow.
Born in England to Sikh parents from Punjab, Neelam began modelling as a teenager and signed with NEXT Model Management at just 14. She later became the first Indian model to feature in a Burberry campaign at London Fashion Week.
Her 2026 runway appearance also brought a desi-inspired touch to the show. Neelam wore a pink-and-gold embellished ensemble with intricate gold body chains, a colourful embroidered skirt and neon-orange hoop earrings.
The look offered a striking celebration of cultural influences within contemporary fashion. For young people who want to embrace their heritage while pursuing international careers, Neelam’s journey shows that cultural identity can be part of what makes their story unique.
Luna Yohannan: Celebrating Her Indian and Dominican Heritage
Meet Luna Yohannan, the New York-born model whose Indian and Dominican heritage brings two cultures into one inspiring story.
Luna returned to the Victoria’s Secret runway for the second consecutive year, following her appearance in the 2025 show. Her growing presence in the fashion industry has also included runway opportunities with internationally recognised fashion houses.
Beyond the runway, Luna has embraced her creative side by illustrating the outfits she wears, combining her love for fashion with her artistic talent.
Her journey offers a meaningful reminder that identity does not have to fit into just one box. Growing up with different cultural influences can be something to celebrate, allowing people to carry their heritage proudly while creating their own paths.
Elina Gunawardena: Making History for Sri Lanka
Another exciting milestone came from Sri Lankan model Elina Gunawardena, professionally known as Elina G, who became the first Sri Lankan model to walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway.
Her appearance at the internationally recognised event placed Sri Lankan talent alongside some of the biggest names in fashion, marking a significant moment for her country’s modelling industry.
While international runways can often seem distant from home, Elina’s achievement brings that dream a little closer for aspiring models in Sri Lanka. It shows young talents that opportunities to represent their country can extend far beyond local fashion shows.
Her milestone is not just a personal achievement; it is also a moment of pride for a community eager to see its talent recognised internationally.
More Than Fashion: A Celebration of Culture and Possibility
Beyond the glamour, elaborate outfits and celebrity appearances, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2026 gave audiences another reason to celebrate the growing visibility of South Asian and multicultural talent.
Their journeys may be different, but they share one powerful message: where you come from does not have to determine how far you can go.
After all, the world is a much bigger place than the boundaries we sometimes set for ourselves. And when these women step onto an international runway, they bring more than their individual talents with them, they bring stories, cultures and inspiration for the next generation.
Source: NDTV, Daily News, Hola USA
