Andreja Pejic was born on August 28, 1991 in Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, to a Bosnian-Croatian father, Vlado Pejic, and a Bosnian-Serbian mother, Jadranka Savic. She also has an older brother, Igor. Pejic's childhood was marked by turmoil, as her family spent time in a Serbian refugee camp before immigrating to Melbourne, Australia when she was eight years old.
Pejic's career in modeling began unexpectedly when she was discovered by a modeling agent while attending University High School in Melbourne. Her androgynous look caught the eye of designers, leading her to walk both female and male fashion shows for Jean Paul Gaultier. Pejic quickly gained recognition for her unique beauty and ability to effortlessly embody both genders on the runway.
In 2014, Pejic made headlines when she underwent sex reassignment surgery, publicly sharing her journey and becoming an advocate for transgender rights. The following year, she made history as the first transgender model to be featured in Vogue magazine, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the fashion industry.
Pejic's career continued to soar as she landed high-profile campaigns for designers such as Marc Jacobs and Michael Michalsky. In 2013, she also ventured into acting, appearing in a Turkish television series called Fatih. Additionally, she starred in David Bowie's music video for "The Stars (Are Out Tonight)", further solidifying her status as an icon in both the fashion and entertainment worlds.
Despite facing challenges and adversity in her early years, Pejic has remained resilient and true to herself. She has openly shared her experiences as a transgender woman, using her platform to advocate for greater inclusivity and representation in the industry. Pejic's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating individuality.
As a trailblazer in the fashion world, Pejic's impact extends far beyond the runway. By fearlessly embracing her identity and using her voice to advocate for progress, she has paved the way for future generations of models and activists. Pejic's boldness and authenticity have left an indelible mark on the industry, leaving a lasting legacy of resilience, empowerment, and inclusivity.