8 Exceptional Photos of Birthday Girl Duckie Thot in Puerto Rico

The two-time SI Swimsuit model turns 28 today.

Cara O’Bleness | Oct 22, 2023

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico.

Derek Kettela/Sports Illustrated

Happy birthday, Duckie Thot! The two-time SI Swimsuit model turns 28 today, and to celebrate, we’re highlighting her incredible photoshoot from this year’s magazine in Puerto Rico.

While Thot’s rookie photoshoot with the brand took place in Montenegro last year, she traveled to the Caribbean for the 2023 SI Swimsuit Issue, where she posed for photographer Derek Kettela. The styling for her feature was inspired by denim, so the model rocked a number of blue jean-inspired looks, from jean bikinis to navy blue one-pieces.

In addition to her work with the brand, Thot has collaborated with Fenty Beauty and Victoria’s Secret, once walked the runway for Yeezy and was featured on Australia’s Next Top Model. Additionally, she uses her platform to advocate for change and equality in the fashion industry.

“Being a minority in any line of work should encourage people to create space for others that reflect their ethnic backgrounds,” Thot told us last year. “I’m South Sudanese born and raised in Australia; this moment is rare for people like me. I’m grateful to represent both my home countries and represent Africa on a global scale. With my rookie status, I’m hoping to inspire young girls who look like me to see and know there is space for them, too.”

Below are a few of our favorite photos from Thot’s 2023 SI Swimsuit photoshoot in Puerto Rico.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by belle the label. Jacket by The Frankie Shop.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Angelys Balek.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Diesel.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Matthew Bruch.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit and gloves by Denimcratic.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Los Angeles Apparel.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by OYE Swimwear.

Duckie Thot was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Jacket by The Frankie Shop.

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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Published Oct 22, 2023

CARA O’BLENESS

Cara O’Bleness is a writer and editor on the Lifestyle and Trending News team for SI Swimsuit. Prior to joining SI Swimsuit in 2022, she worked as a writer and editor across a number of content verticals, including food, lifestyle, health and wellness, and small business and entrepreneurship. In her free time, O’Bleness loves reading, spending time with her family and making her way through Michigan’s many microbreweries. She is a graduate of Michigan State University’s School of Journalism.