Dame Anna Wintour, the renowned editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine, was recently awarded the prestigious title of Companion of Honour for her significant contributions to fashion. The accolade was given during the 2023 King's Birthday Honours, recognizing her impactful work in the industry. Wintour, who has led Vogue since 1988, has not only shaped fashion trends but also made substantial strides in philanthropy. She has raised over $20 million for AIDS research and organized the iconic Met Gala in New York annually since 1995.
In addition to her contributions to fashion, Dame Anna Wintour was first made a dame by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017. Despite her 2020 diagnosis of bladder cancer, Wintour remains committed to her work and helping others. Reflecting on her journey, she stated:
"They help me be seen and not be seen" – Dame Anna Wintour
Wintour’s resilience is evident as she expressed her determination to continue achieving more in her career and philanthropic efforts.
"It makes me even more convinced that I have so much more to achieve" – Dame Anna Wintour
The investiture ceremony also honored Dame Tracey Emin, a celebrated artist, who was made a dame for her contributions to fashion and journalism. Emin, who became a dame in 2017, is famous for her evocative art installation, My Bed, which was showcased at the Tate Gallery and shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 1999. The piece later sold at auction for £2.2 million.
Emin's recognition highlights her influence and dedication to the arts, as well as her advocacy for education. She emphasized the importance of education for those from impoverished backgrounds:
"Go to university and worry about it afterwards, because otherwise, if you don't have the education, you can't change anything" – Dame Tracey Emin
Emin further acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals from less privileged environments striving for higher education.
"I think if you come from an impoverished background, it's almost impossible to even get your qualifications and get into university" – Dame Tracey Emin
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