Lily Cole: The Multi-Talented Model Turned Environmental Activist
A Vogue Darling and Beyond
Lily Cole, born on December 27, 1987, is a British model, author, film director, actress, and entrepreneur, best known for her stunning modeling career and her recent venture into environmental activism. With a career spanning over two decades, Cole has solidified her position as one of the top models of the 2000s, as listed by Vogue Paris.
Modeling Career Highlights
Cole's modeling career took off at the tender age of 16, when she landed her first British Vogue cover. She went on to work with top brands such as
Alexander McQueen, Chanel,
Louis Vuitton,
Jean Paul Gaultier, and Moschino, becoming a household name in the fashion industry. Her impressive portfolio also includes advertising campaigns for Longchamp, Anna Sui, Rimmel, and Cacharel.
From Runway to Red Carpet
Cole's acting career began to take shape with her first leading role as Valentina in the 2009 film
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus. She has since appeared in films like
Passages, a short directed by
Shekhar Kapur, and
There Be Dragons, directed by Roland Joffé.
A Passion for the Environment
In recent years, Cole has shifted her focus towards environmental activism. In 2020, she published
Who Cares Wins, a book that explores the impact of our daily lives on the planet and provides guidance on responding to the climate emergency. The book was later transformed into a podcast, where Cole invites guests from diverse backgrounds to discuss critical environmental issues, ranging from technology and food to mental health and capitalism.
Impossible People: A Platform for Change
In 2013, Cole founded
impossible.com, an innovation group and incubator that aims to create a more sustainable future. Initially, the platform was a gift economy social network, but it has since evolved to support projects and people working towards positive change.
Personal Life and Education
Born in Torquay, Devon, Cole was raised by her Welsh mother, Patience Owen, an artist and writer, in London. She has no contact with her father, Chris Cole, a fisherman and boat builder, who left home when she was a baby. Cole attended several schools, including Hallfield Primary School, the Sylvia Young Theatre School, and St Marylebone School. She achieved A grades in her A-levels in English, politics, and philosophy and ethics, and gained a place to read Social and Political Sciences at King's College, Cambridge, which she deferred twice.
Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs
Through her work, Cole has consistently emphasized the importance of living sustainably and reducing our carbon footprint. Her philosophy is centered around the idea that small changes can add up to make a significant impact on the environment. Cole's passion for the environment and her commitment to raising awareness about critical issues have made her a role model for many young people around the world.
Career Milestones and Awards
- 2004: Named Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards
- 2009: Listed as one of the top 30 models of the 2000s by Vogue Paris
- 2020: Published Who Cares Wins, a book on environmental activism
- 2021: Launched the Who Cares Wins podcast
Legacy and Impact
Lily Cole's journey from a successful model to an environmental activist serves as an inspiration to many. Her dedication to creating a more sustainable future has sparked a wave of change, encouraging others to join the fight against climate change. As a role model, Cole continues to inspire and educate, leaving a lasting impact on the world.
