Swimsuit

4 Stunning Pics From Ashley Callingbull’s History-Making Photoshoot

The Swim Search finalist became the first indigenous First Nations woman to grace the pages of the magazine last year.

Martha Zaytoun

Ashley Callingbull poses in front of the ocean with her hand on her head.

Ashley Callingbull was photographed by Yu Tsai in the Dominican Republic.

On Friday, Oct. 20, the newest class of Swim Search winners was announced. For the first time ever, SI Swimsuit selected all seven finalists as rookies for the 2024 issue of the magazine. The announcement has us reminiscing on Swim Searches of the past, and today, we can’t stop thinking about the great group of finalists from last year, and one history-making model in particular.

Ashley Callingbull became the first indigenous First Nations woman to appear in the pages of an SI Swimsuit Issue when she headed to the beaches of the Dominican Republic with photographer Yu Tsai last year. It was a historic moment for the model and the brand, resulting in a series of stunning photos that we haven’t yet gotten over.

In addition to her modeling gigs, the Cree First Nations model from the Enoch Cree Nation works on several initiatives in her native Canada, serving as a motivational speaker in her community. As a host for the Canadian Football League, she has also been outspoken in calling for diversity and inclusion in the league.

Her advocacy work, in conjunction with her historical SI Swimsuit feature, proves her a positive force in her community. Below are a few of our favorite photos from her Swim Search feature.

Ashley Callingbull poses in front of the ocean in a purple bikini with front cutouts.
Ashley Callingbull stands with her arms above her head in a pink latex one-piece.
Ashley Callingbull lays on the sand in pink bikini with O-ring detailing.
Ashley Callingbull sits in the shallow water in a purple bikini with cutouts.

Now through Nov. 1, 100% of SI Swimsuit’s portion of proceeds from cover prints purchased here will be donated to the Maui Strong Fund, which is helping to support the people and places of Maui affected by the recent wildfires.

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Martha Zaytoun

MARTHA ZAYTOUN

Martha Zaytoun is a Lifestyle & Trending News writer for SI Swimsuit. Before joining the team, Martha worked on the editorial board of the University of Notre Dame’s student magazine and on the editorial team at Chapel Hill, Durham and Chatham Magazines in North Carolina. When not working, Martha loves to watercolor and oil paint, run or water ski. She is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and a huge Fighting Irish fan.