Iman

  • Beauty secret: "Sleep, when I can get it"
  • Daily indulgence: "Chocolate-and-caramel bar from Dean & Deluca in New York City
  • Favorite item in her closet: "My first Kelly bag by Hermès - a classic beautiful black alligator"
  • First job: "Translated safari brochures from English to Italian for the Kenyan Tourist Board"
  • What inspires her: "Kindness, compassion and faith"
She may be breathtakingly beautiful, but don't mistake former model Iman for just another pretty face. This Somalian-born star is also a savvy businesswoman and a philanthropist.

Her career began in 1975, when she was discovered by high-fashion photographer Peter Beard. From there, Iman became one of the most recognizable and popular fashion models in the world. But her future held more in store for her than gracing the covers of magazines.

In her early days of modeling, Iman was constantly asked by makeup artists if she had brought foundation with her - a question never asked of her Caucasian counterparts. The makeup artists simply did not have a suitable foundation for dark skin. "I started mixing and matching products to find a suitable shade for me," she explains. "I wanted foundation that celebrated my skin tone instead of altering it." After creating beautiful shades of chocolate brown instead of the red, yellow and gray tones that were frequently applied to her face, Iman became a foundation expert.

Today, Iman answers to the title of CEO as head of IMAN Cosmetics, Skincare and Fragrances. Founded in 1994, her company was the first cosmetics and skin-care collection designed for all women of color. It has since then become a huge success with beauty editors, makeup artists and celebrities such as Salma Hayek and Alicia Keys. "But most importantly, it has become a success with everyday women from around the world," says Iman.

Even with the demands of running her own business and writing books, Iman still manages to find time to involve herself with several charities. "Keep a Child Alive is the one that I'm most passionate about," she says. "I am its global ambassador." This foundation is dedicated to providing live-saving anti-retroviral treatment to children and their families with AIDS in Africa. According to Iman, this charity work anchors her chaotic life. "Find your bliss and follow your heart," she says. "A life of service is a must for a balanced and fulfilling life."

Read an excerpt from Iman's book, "The Beauty of Color."

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