Aoki Lee Simmons: From Runways to Ivy League — A Journey of Style, Brains, and Boldness

On: April 10, 2025 3:48 AM

Aoki Lee Simmons is an American model and Harvard graduate, born on August 16, 2002, to Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons. She gained prominence in fashion, debuting on runways like Pyer Moss and starring in campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger and PETA. At 22, she’s transitioning from modeling to a career in international relations, leveraging her degree in classics and government.

Aoki Lee Simmons: A Rising Star with Heart and Hustle

Hey, everyone! Today, we’re chatting about Aoki Lee Simmons—a name you’ve probably heard if you’re into fashion,
activism, or just keeping up with cool people doing cool things.
At just 22, Aoki’s already making her mark as a model, Harvard grad, and all-around inspiring human.
She’s the daughter of fashion icon Kimora Lee Simmons and music mogul Russell Simmons, but trust me,
she’s not just riding on family fame—she’s building her own legacy.
Let’s dive into what makes Aoki so awesome and why she’s someone worth rooting for!

The Basics: Who Is Aoki?

Born on August 16, 2002, in New York City, Aoki Lee Simmons grew up surrounded by glitz,
glam, and a whole lot of ambition. With a mom who ruled the runways (and created Baby Phat!)
and a dad who shaped hip-hop history with Def Jam, Aoki’s roots are pretty legendary.
But she’s not one to sit back and chill—she’s got that go-getter energy.
She’s half Japanese and Korean from her mom’s side and half African-American from her dad’s,
and she’s proud of her multicultural vibe, often weaving it into her story.

Aoki’s childhood? Picture this: toddling down runways with her mom and big sis
Ming Lee during Baby Phat shows, cameras flashing, and a front-row seat to fashion history.
But it wasn’t all sparkles—her parents split when she was young,
and she’s been open about some rocky family moments, especially with her dad.
Still, she’s taken it all in stride and turned it into fuel for her own journey.

Brains and Beauty: The Harvard Years

Okay, let’s talk about the fact that Aoki graduated from Harvard University at just 20—yes, 20!
She studied classics and government, which is basically a fancy way of saying she’s
super smart and loves digging into history and how the world works.
Accepted at 16, she juggled intense classes with modeling gigs, zipping between Cambridge and
New York like it was no big deal. She’s even shared TikToks from Harvard’s “study caves,”
giving us a peek into her late-night cram sessions—relatable, right?

Aoki’s all about breaking stereotypes too. People sometimes assume models can’t be brainy,
and she’s like, “Hold up, that’s not true!” In a TikTok clapback, she once said,
“Models aren’t uneducated or inarticulate—I just happen to love this gig, even with my degree!”
And now? She’s eyeing a career in international relations (she’s prepping for the foreign service test!),
proving she’s got big plans beyond the catwalk.

Modeling: Stepping Out of the Shadow

Speaking of the catwalk, Aoki’s modeling career is fire. She kicked things off big-time in 2021,
strutting for Pyer Moss’ couture show,
and since then, she’s walked for brands like
Tommy Hilfiger and Sergio Hudson. She’s graced covers for Teen Vogue, Flaunt, and Numéro Netherlands,
rocking looks that scream confidence and style. But here’s the real talk: she’s been honest about the tough side of modeling.
In 2024, she announced she’s stepping back from the “dark AF” industry to focus on her mental health,
saying it’s just not her vibe long-term.
(Big props for that self-awareness!)

Aoki’s also compared herself to her mom,
admitting Kimora’s a modeling legend she’ll never outshine—
and that’s okay.
“It’s one big,
fat comparison all the time,”
she said on Instagram Live,
“but I’m ready to do my own thing.” And that “thing”
might just be a pivot to government work—how cool is that twist?

Passion with Purpose

Aoki’s not just about fab looks—she’s got a heart for making a difference. Recently,
she teamed up with PETA for an anti-SeaWorld campaign,
posing as a mermaid in a tiny glass bowl to
spotlight the cramped lives of captive orcas.
“If you wouldn’t want to live in a fishbowl,
don’t go to SeaWorld,” she urged.
It’s a bold move,
and she’s joining a long list of celebs speaking out for animals.

She’s also worked with The Unmentionables,
helping refugees in Greece get access to healthcare and supplies.
Her time there opened her eyes to the messy world of international politics,
and it’s clearly stuck with her.
Plus, she’s all about community—whether it’s her Japanese-Korean heritage or her Black identity,
she’s proud to connect with people across cultures.