Candice Swanepoel’s Motherhood Journey: A Deep Dive into the Lives of Her Sons, Anacan and Ariel

Supermodel Candice Swanepoel effortlessly transitions from runway icon to devoted mother, embracing the joys and challenges of raising her two sons, Anacan and Ariel. This definitive guide explores their unique stories, her candid insights into motherhood, and her powerful stand for breastfeeding advocacy, offering a fan-centric look into her most cherished role.

For years, Candice Swanepoel captivated audiences globally as a prominent Victoria’s Secret Angel, gracing runways and campaigns with her iconic presence. However, away from the glittering lights of high fashion, Swanepoel has embraced a deeply personal and equally impactful role: motherhood. The South African model is a proud parent to two sons, Anacan and Ariel, whose arrivals have profoundly shaped her life and public persona.

Swanepoel’s journey into motherhood began with her long-time partner and fellow model, Hermann Nicoli, a Brazilian native. The couple, who met in Paris when Candice was just 17, announced their engagement in August 2015. Their family expanded quickly, bringing two beautiful sons into the world and offering fans a glimpse into the supermodel’s life away from the demanding fashion industry.

Anacan: The First Angel’s Arrival

Candice Swanepoel welcomed her first son, Anacan, on October 5, 2016. His unique name holds special significance, drawing inspiration from Nicoli’s Brazilian heritage. Swanepoel shared with People that the name is indigenous to the Amazon, and it was the first one that resonated with both parents. She later clarified to British Vogue that they added an ‘n’ to the end of the original Brazilian spelling to ensure easier pronunciation outside of Brazil.

For the first five months of his life, Anacan resided in Brazil before moving to New York City with his mother. Anacan made his modeling debut alongside his supermodel mom in a 2017 Gap campaign, which supported Every Mother Counts. This campaign underscored Swanepoel’s dedication to motherhood, aligning with her public statements on the subject. She expressed to Gap’s press release that motherhood is a unique journey for every woman, and she cherished the opportunity to share her experience.

Ariel: Completing the Family Picture

Just under two years after Anacan’s birth, Candice Swanepoel and Hermann Nicoli welcomed their second son, Ariel, on June 19, 2018. The arrival of a second child brought new dynamics and challenges, which Swanepoel openly discussed. She humorously noted that while the second child was “a lot easier” in some ways, the overall situation of “having two makes it harder,” as reported by People.

Ariel, affectionately dubbed Candice’s “little lion boy,” is frequently described by his mother as “the happiest baby you will ever meet.” On his fourth birthday in 2022, Swanepoel shared her admiration for his “cool, strong, carefree, funny and loving” personality. Like his older brother, Ariel has also joined his mother and Anacan for professional photoshoots, including for Vogue’s winter 2025 issue.

The Realities of Supermodel Motherhood

Candice Swanepoel has been remarkably candid about her experiences as a mother. Celebrating her first Mother’s Day in May 2017, she shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “What a gift and precious responsibility it is to bring a new soul into the world. To love and teach to love just the same. My life definitely started over on the day I met my baby.” She later confided to People that the “everything” aspect of motherhood was the best part.

The bond between Anacan and Ariel is also something Swanepoel cherishes. In September 2018, she affectionately described Anacan as an “amazing big brother,” constantly “kissing [Ariel] all the time.” She noted his enthusiastic, albeit sometimes overwhelming, love for his younger sibling.

Beyond the personal joys, Swanepoel has also used her platform to advocate for important causes related to motherhood. In December 2016, she created a significant stir by sharing an Instagram photo of herself breastfeeding Anacan. This powerful image was intended to combat the widespread stigmatization and sexualization of women’s breasts and the natural act of nursing.

Her post, which quickly went viral, resonated with countless mothers worldwide. As reported by Yahoo Style CA, Swanepoel candidly expressed, “Many women today are shamed for breastfeeding in public, or even kicked out of public places for feeding their children. I have been made to feel the need to cover up and somewhat shy to feed my baby in public places but strangely feel nothing for the topless editorials I’ve done in the name of art…?” She boldly declared, “breastfeeding is not sexual it’s natural,” ending her message with the impactful hashtag #mothernature.

Family Life and Future

As of 2018, Candice Swanepoel divides her time between Brazil and New York City, balancing her demanding career with her primary role as a mother. While she and Hermann Nicoli confirmed their separation in August 2019, their dedication to co-parenting their sons remains evident.

Swanepoel’s public journey through motherhood, marked by both adorable family moments and powerful advocacy, has endeared her to fans globally. Her candidness provides a refreshing perspective on balancing a high-profile career with the profound responsibilities and immense joys of raising a family. Her sons, Anacan and Ariel, continue to be a central part of her life, inspiring her and offering a relatable dimension to the often-glamorous world of supermodels.