Liya Kebede: A Trailblazer in Fashion, Film, and Philanthropy

Liya Kebede is a supermodel, actress, and humanitarian whose influence extends far beyond the runway. Born on March 1, 1978, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, she has built a career that redefines beauty standards, promotes African craftsmanship, and advocates for maternal and child health worldwide.

A Meteoric Rise in Fashion

Kebede’s journey began when she was discovered while attending the Franco-Ethiopian Lycée Guebre-Mariam. Encouraged to pursue modeling, she moved to Paris, where she quickly gained recognition. Her breakthrough came in 2000, when Tom Ford selected her for an exclusive contract with Gucci, launching her into the global fashion scene.

In 2002, she made history when Vogue Paris dedicated an entire issue to her—a rare honor that solidified her status as a top model. The following year, she became the first Black model to represent Estée Lauder, marking a significant step toward diversity in the beauty industry.

Throughout her career, Kebede has worked with Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, and Victoria’s Secret, appearing on the covers of Vogue, Time, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. She was ranked among the highest-paid models in the world, earning a spot on Forbes’ list of top-earning supermodels.

Expanding Her Influence Beyond Fashion

Kebede’s talents extend beyond modeling. She has starred in films such as The Good Shepherd, Lord of War, and Desert Flower, where she portrayed Waris Dirie, a Somali model and activist fighting against female genital mutilation. Her performance was widely praised, proving her versatility as an actress.

In addition to her work in fashion and film, Kebede is a dedicated philanthropist. In 2005, she was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, focusing on maternal and child health. She later founded the Liya Kebede Foundation, which works to improve healthcare access for women and children in Africa.

Championing African Craftsmanship

Kebede is also the founder of Lemlem, a fashion brand that supports Ethiopian artisans by promoting traditional weaving techniques. Through Lemlem, she has helped preserve African craftsmanship while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.

A Legacy of Excellence and Advocacy

With a career spanning over two decades, Liya Kebede remains a symbol of elegance, resilience, and empowerment. She has shattered barriers, advocated for social change, and inspired generations of women to embrace their heritage and pursue their dreams.

Her journey is a testament to the power of representation and the impact of using one’s platform for meaningful change.