'I'm the proud daughter of a Lebanese father': 'Harper's Bazaar' appoints first black editor-in-chief

Samira Nasr outlined her inclusive vision for the 153-year-old magazine in a new video

Samira Nasr will be the first black editor-in-chief of 'Harper's Bazaar' in the magazine's 153-year history. Harper's Bazaar / Instagram

Amid the backdrop of ongoing anti-racism riots across the globe, one American magazine has announced the hiring of its first black editor-in-chief.

Harper's Bazaar US, the monthly fashion magazine first published in 1867, has appointed Samira Nasr in its premier role.

Nasr, who comes from an executive fashion director role at Vanity Fair, is a half-Trinidadian, half-Lebanese stylist and editor who has also worked at InStyle and Elle magazines.

She nodded towards her heritage in a video announcing her appointment, as she also heralded the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement.

"As the proud daughter of a Lebanese father and a Trinidadian mother, my world view is expansive, and anchored in the belief that representation matters," said Nasr.

"My lens by nature is colourful, and so it is important to me to begin a new chapter in Bazaar's history by shining a light on all individuals who I believe are the inspiring voices of our time. I will work to give all voices a platform to tell stories that would never have been told."

Nasr also used the video to offer a message of support to activists who have taken to the streets following the death of George Floyd while in police custody.

"I see you, I thank you and I hope we can join forces to amplify the message of equality because black lives matter," she said.

Canadian-born Nasr will begin her role at the Hearst Magazine-owned title on Monday, July 6.

She takes the reins from long-standing editor Glenda Bailey, who announced in January that she was stepping down after almost 19 years at the magazine's helm.

In a statement announcing Nasr's hiring, Hearst Magazines president Troy Young said her “important voice will continue to evolve the brand’s distinct position as a style touchstone for fashion’s most discerning".