We’d hazard a guess that most young girls have daydreamed about one day stomping down runways for the likes of Saint Laurent and Gucci. For Stella Hanan, that dream is now a reality — and it’s not hard to see why.

With bright blue eyes, illustriously carved cheekbones, and a perfect pillowy pout, she more closely resembles a seasoned supermodel than a 20-year-old Sydneysider. That's probably why, when she was just 14, Hanan was scouted while shopping at Sydney's iconic Paddington markets. Having waited until she was a little older to officially enter the modelling business, at 18, she – quite literally – followed in the footsteps of top Australian modelling exports like Gemma Ward and Miranda Kerr, walking the hallowed runways of Australian Fashion Week. Much like the now-supermodels, Hanan tallied an impressive number of local runways in her first Australian season — a strong indicator of what was to come next. While the event is largely considered a launchpad for local design talent, it’s also a training ground for young models hoping to one day making it big on the international modelling circuit. And in a textbook success story, that’s exactly what Hanan has done.

The model left Sydney in September, 2024, to try her luck at the Spring/Summer 2025 shows, and had more than a little success. Hanan debuted at Alaïa, where she floated down the runway (which was hosted in the iconic Guggenheim Museum) in a hooded cerulean cloak and matching mini skirt. She then went on to book shows like Khaite, Toteme, Michael Kors, Saint Laurent, Versace, and a closing slot at Gucci under her belt – no easy feat, if you ask us.

So where does one go after securing their spot as one of the breakout stars of the season? Well, Hanan is back at it for the Fall Winter 25 season, boasting runways for Givenchy, Hermès, Chloé, Rabanne, Versace, Gucci, Rabanne, and Marc Jacobs – and the season isn't over. yet.

In all likelihood, Hanan will follow in the footsteps of Angelina Kendall, a fellow young Australian model who, after dominating the local market, has taken the international scene by storm. Or perhaps she'll make like supermodel-turned-movie-star Gemma Ward, and try her hand at the silver screen next? Whatever Hanan's next move, we'll be watching closely.

Feature image by Myles Kalus and GoRunway.