Naomi Campbell Appeals Charity Ban: Alleges Lawyer’s Fraud

Fashion Icon Fights Back

Supermodel Naomi Campbell is fighting to clear her name after being banned from running a charity for five years. The iconic fashion figure has appealed the ban, claiming that a fellow trustee, lawyer Bianka Hellmich, was responsible for “identity fraud and deception” that led to the charity’s downfall.

In a dramatic twist, Campbell, 56, alleged that Hellmich forged her signature and impersonated her using a fake email address to misdirect funds intended for the charity, Fashion for Relief.

A Trust Betrayed

Speaking at the appeal hearing, Campbell admitted that her “only mistake” was trusting Hellmich, who had previously worked in “official positions” and “came across as a lawyer”.

The supermodel’s lawyer, Andrew Westwood KC, accused Hellmich of a “long-term and consistent scheme of mismanagement and deception” in written submissions.

The tribunal heard that Hellmich advised Campbell to take on a limited, figurehead role within the charity, while she handled the regulatory and financial aspects.

Charity Commission’s Response

The Charity Commission, which regulates charities in England and Wales, has taken a firm stance. Their lawyer, Faisel Sadiq, argued that Campbell could not simply “abdicate” her responsibilities as a trustee.

The Commission’s investigation into Fashion for Relief began in 2021, and they found that only 8.5% of funds raised were spent on grants to charity. This led to the charity’s dissolution in March 2024.

The Commission also confirmed that they had referred the forgery and fraud allegations to the police, but clarified that no individual had been reported, only the allegations themselves.

A Complex Case

The case has raised questions about the inner workings of charities and the potential for abuse of power. It’s a reminder that even high-profile figures can find themselves entangled in complex legal battles.

As the appeal process continues, Campbell’s fate remains uncertain. Will she be able to overturn the ban and restore her reputation in the charity world? Only time will tell.