Anjali Lama is a name that resonates with courage, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements in the fashion industry. Born as Nabin Wabia in Nepal, she defied societal norms to become the first transgender model to walk the prestigious Lakme Fashion Week in 2017. Her journey from a small farming village in Nepal to the global fashion stage is nothing short of inspiring.
Anjali’s story is not just about modeling—it is about breaking barriers, advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, and proving that talent knows no gender. She has faced rejection, discrimination, and personal struggles, but her unwavering determination has made her a beacon of hope for many. Today, she stands as an icon, not only in the fashion world but also in the fight for transgender representation.
Her achievements extend beyond the runway. She has graced the covers of Elle India, GQ India, and Cosmopolitan, won prestigious awards like Vogue Beauty Awards (Model of the Year) and Grazia Millennial Award, and has been featured in campaigns for global brands like Levi’s. Despite the challenges she faced, Anjali continues to inspire millions with her confidence and advocacy.
Early Life & Background
Anjali was born in 1985 in the Nuwakot District, Bagmati Province, Nepal. She was raised in a traditional farming family, where gender roles were strictly defined. Her father, Suvan Singh Tamang, worked as a farmer, and she grew up alongside six siblings, including her sister Neha Waiba.
From a young age, Anjali felt different. She was more comfortable around girls, preferred feminine clothing, and struggled with the expectations placed upon her as a boy. However, in a conservative society like Nepal, such feelings were often dismissed or ridiculed. Her current age is 40 years as of 2025.
Anjali Lama Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Nabin Wabia |
| Known As | Anjali Lama |
| Profession(s) | Nepalese Model, LGBTIQA+ Activist |
| Famous For | First transgender woman to walk the Lakme Fashion Week (2017) |
| Date of Birth | 1985 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 40 Years |
| Birthplace | Nuwakot District, Bagmati Province, Nepal |
| Nationality | Nepalese |
| Hometown | Nuwakot, Nepal |
| Height | 175.2 cm (5’ 9”) |
| Weight | 54 kg (119 lbs) |
| Figure Measurements | 34-26-34 |
| Eye Colour | Black |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Father | Suvan Singh Tamang (Farmer) |
| Siblings | Six siblings, including sister Neha Waiba |
| Education | Completed schooling in 2003 |
| Modeling Debut | Featured in Voice of Women magazine (2009) |
| Major Breakthrough | Lakme Fashion Week (2017) |
| Awards & Recognitions | Miss Charming (2007), Vogue Beauty Awards (Model of the Year, 2019), Grazia Millennial Award (Model of the Year, 2019) |
| Magazine Covers | Elle India (2017), GQ India (2018), Cosmopolitan (2020) |
| Notable Campaigns | Levi’s Shape My World (2019) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Approx. 8 crore INR |
| @anjalilama_official/ | |
| Wikipedia | @Anjali_Lama |
Schooling and Early Struggles
Anjali completed her schooling in 2003, but her school years were far from easy. She was frequently mocked by classmates for her feminine behavior, and even teachers failed to understand her struggles. She found solace in her mother and sister, who were more accepting of her nature, but she felt distant from her father and brothers.
The lack of understanding and acceptance made her childhood difficult. She often questioned why she felt different and why she couldn’t fit into the mold society expected of her. These internal conflicts led her to seek answers beyond her immediate surroundings.
After finishing school, Anjali moved to Kathmandu for further studies. It was here that she had a life-changing moment. One day, while watching television at a friend’s house, she came across a show about transgender individuals. Seeing men dressed as women and living their truth filled her with joy—she finally had a name for what she had been feeling all her life.
Journey of Acceptance & Challenges
In 2005, Anjali made the brave decision to come out to her family as transgender. However, her revelation was met with disappointment and anger. Her parents, deeply rooted in traditional beliefs, struggled to accept her identity. They refused to acknowledge her as their son, and the rejection was devastating. Feeling unwelcome in her own home, Anjali had no choice but to cut ties with her family. The emotional pain of losing her loved ones was immense, but she knew she had to embrace her truth.
Life outside her family was equally challenging. Nepal, at the time, had limited awareness and acceptance of transgender individuals. Anjali faced discrimination in public spaces, workplaces, and even among peers. Finding employment was difficult, as many companies refused to hire a transgender person. Despite these hardships, she remained determined. She sought support from the Blue Diamond Society, an organization advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights in Nepal.
Anjali’s journey was marked by resilience. She refused to let societal rejection define her. Instead, she focused on building a future where she could live authentically. She began exploring opportunities in modeling, hoping to carve a space for herself in an industry that had never seen a transgender model from Nepal.
Entry into Modeling & Early Struggles
Lama’s entry into modeling was anything but easy. She faced rejection after rejection, with agencies unwilling to take a chance on a transgender model. Despite her striking features and undeniable talent, the industry was hesitant to embrace diversity. Her first breakthrough came in 2009, when she was featured in the magazine Voice of Women.
Determined to make her mark, Anjali auditioned for Lakme Fashion Week twice but was rejected both times. The setbacks were discouraging, but she refused to give up. She worked tirelessly to refine her skills, improve her portfolio, and gain more exposure. Her perseverance paid off in 2017, when she was finally selected to walk the ramp at Lakme Fashion Week.
At Lakme Fashion Week, Anjali walked for renowned designer Monisha Jaising. Her presence on the runway was met with admiration and applause. The fashion industry, which had once rejected her, was now celebrating her uniqueness. Her success at Lakme Fashion Week opened doors to new opportunities. She began receiving offers from major brands, magazines, and designers.
Breakthrough in Lakme Fashion Week (2017)
Lama’s perseverance finally paid off in 2017 when she was selected to walk the ramp at Lakme Fashion Week. This was a historic moment—not just for her, but for the entire transgender community. After facing multiple rejections, she had finally broken through the barriers that had kept her from achieving her dreams. Her selection was a turning point in her career, proving that talent and determination could overcome societal prejudices.
At Lakme Fashion Week, Anjali walked for renowned designer Monisha Jaising. Her presence on the runway was met with admiration and applause. The fashion industry, which had once rejected her, was now celebrating her uniqueness. She carried herself with confidence, grace, and an undeniable aura that captivated audiences. Her walk was not just a display of fashion—it was a statement of resilience, identity, and empowerment.
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Achievements in the Fashion Industry
Following her breakthrough at Lakme Fashion Week, Lama’s career skyrocketed. She became a sought-after model, gracing the covers of prestigious magazines such as Elle India, GQ India, and Cosmopolitan. Her striking features and bold personality made her a favorite among designers and photographers. She was no longer just a model—she was a symbol of change in the industry.
In 2019, she won the “Model of the Year” award at the Vogue Beauty Awards and the Grazia Millennial Award. These accolades cemented her status as a top model and recognized her contributions to the fashion world. She continued to work with major brands, including Levi’s, where she was featured in a campaign titled Shape My World. This campaign highlighted individuals who had defied societal norms and created their own paths, making Anjali a perfect fit for the message.
Major Awards & Recognitions
Anjali’s journey in the fashion industry has been marked by numerous accolades and recognitions. Her groundbreaking presence as a transgender model has not only earned her respect but also prestigious awards that celebrate her contributions to the industry. In 2007, she won the title of Miss Charming in a contest specifically for transgender women. This early recognition was a testament to her confidence and ability to stand out in a competitive space.
Beyond awards, Anjali has been featured on the covers of renowned magazines such as Elle India, GQ India, and Cosmopolitan. Her presence in these publications highlights her impact on the fashion world and her role in promoting inclusivity. She also starred in a campaign for Levi’s, titled Shape My World, which celebrated individuals who have defied societal norms and created their own paths. Through these achievements, Anjali Lama has established herself as a trailblazer, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams.
Net Worth & Income
Anjali, a trailblazing transgender model, has built a successful career in the fashion industry, earning recognition and financial stability. As of March 2025, her estimated net worth is approximately 8 crore INR.
This wealth comes from her modeling assignments, brand endorsements, magazine features, and collaborations with international fashion houses. Her journey from facing rejection to becoming a celebrated figure in the industry has not only brought her fame but also financial success.
Physical Appearance
In terms of physical appearance, Anjali stands tall at 5 feet 9 inches (175.2 cm), with a slender yet well-defined physique. She maintains a weight of 54 kg (119 lbs), complementing her striking presence on the runway. Her figure measurements of 34-26-34 reflect her toned and elegant frame, which has made her a favorite among designers.
She has black eyes and black hair, which add to her distinctive look and strong runway presence. Her confidence, grace, and unique features have helped her carve a niche in the fashion world, making her an inspiration for aspiring models and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Activism & Advocacy for LGBTQIA+ Rights
Lama’s influence extends beyond the fashion industry—she is a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. Her journey as a transgender woman has given her firsthand experience of the struggles faced by the community, and she has used her platform to raise awareness and push for greater acceptance. She has spoken openly about the discrimination she faced in Nepal and India, emphasizing the need for societal change.
Through her work, Anjali has become a voice for transgender individuals who aspire to break barriers in various fields. She has participated in panel discussions, interviews, and campaigns that highlight the importance of representation. Her advocacy is not limited to fashion; she actively supports initiatives that provide resources and opportunities for transgender individuals, helping them navigate their careers and personal lives.
Personal Life & Beliefs
Anjali has always been a strong and independent individual, shaped by the challenges she faced throughout her life. Despite her success in the fashion industry, she has remained deeply connected to her roots and the journey that brought her to where she is today. She is unmarried, and while she has spoken about love and relationships in interviews, she has always prioritized her career and advocacy work. Her personal life is a reflection of her resilience—she has built a life on her own terms, refusing to conform to societal expectations.
Anjali’s beliefs are centered around self-acceptance and empowerment. She has often spoken about the importance of embracing one’s identity, regardless of societal pressures. She believes that every individual deserves respect and recognition, regardless of their gender or background. Her journey has made her a vocal advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, and she continues to use her platform to inspire others to live authentically.
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