The modeling career of Liya Kebede launched after a film director encountered her at the Lycée Guébré-Mariam in Addis Ababa. After moving to France to work with a Parisian agency, she secured a pivotal exclusive contract for Tom Ford’s Gucci Fall/Winter 2000 show, marking the beginning of a sustained presence across international fashion media.
Professional Modeling Progression
Kebede appeared on the cover of Paris Vogue in 2002, an issue dedicated entirely to her. She has since graced the covers of Japanese, American, Italian, Spanish, and French editions of the magazine. In 2003, she became the first Ethiopian representative for Estée Lauder. Her professional portfolio includes campaigns for luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, and Yves Saint-Laurent. In 2007, Forbes identified her as the eleventh highest-earning supermodel globally.
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In 2007, Kebede founded Lemlem, a clothing label focused on traditional Ethiopian weaving techniques. The brand, which derives its name from the Amharic word for to bloom, produces hand-spun and embroidered apparel for children and women. By prioritizing local craftsmanship, the initiative aims to generate economic opportunities for artisans within Ethiopia. The collection is currently distributed through 150 retail outlets.
Advocacy and Public Health
Appointed as a WHO Goodwill Ambassador in 2005, Kebede focuses on maternal, newborn, and child health. She established the Liya Kebede Foundation to support medical programs, community education, and low-cost health technologies. Her philanthropic contributions were recognized in 2013 when she was named one of Glamour’s Women of the Year. She has also collaborated with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and served as an adviser for the Center for Global Development.
Film and Media
Beyond fashion, Kebede has pursued an acting career with roles in films including The Good Shepherd and Lord of War. In 2009, she starred in the film adaptation of Desert Flower, which chronicles the life of Waris Dirie. The production premiered at the Venice Film Festival. She frequently contributes writing on global health issues to outlets such as The Huffington Post.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 March 1978, Addis Ababa
- Citizenship: Ethiopia
- Ambassadorial role: WHO Goodwill Ambassador since 2005
- Clothing brand: Lemlem
- Spouse: Kassy Kebede
- Notable award: Trophée Chopard
- Education: Lycée Guébré-Mariam
- Languages: Amharic, French, English, Italian
Questions readers ask
What is the mission of the Liya Kebede Foundation?
The foundation works to reduce maternal, newborn, and child mortality by funding medical training, awareness projects, and health infrastructure.
What type of clothing does Lemlem produce?
The line focuses on traditional hand-spun and woven clothing for women and children to preserve Ethiopian weaving arts.
