Birth name: Liya Kebede
Date of Birth: January 3, 1978
Place of Birth: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Nationality: Ethiopian
Occupation: Model, fashion designer, actress, philanthropist
Height: 5 ft 10 in; 1.78 m
Measurements: 32.5-23-34 (in)
Famous for: Kebebe is one of the most famous models from Africa and a great philanthropist. She is the Ethiopian beauty that the whole of Africa is proud of.
Quotes:
We have to do everything we can to protect the children.
The message of our campaign is “Make every mother and child count”. This campaign is not just about health. It is also a powerful call for radical progress in women’s rights and the rights of their children.
I’d love it if young girls can see me and say, “She’s done it”, and so can I.
Growing up in Africa instilled in me a desire to give back; it’s impossible to be surrounded by so much poverty and not feel that way. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to help.
Interesting Facts:
Kebede started her modeling career in Ethiopia where she had to provide her own shoes for each runway show.
This beautiful African woman graced many magazine covers including: Style & Design, Vogue, V, Flair, i-D, etc.
In 2003, Liya was named the newest face of Estée Lauder cosmetics (the contract was rumored to be around $3 million).
In 2005, Kebede was appointed as World Health Organization Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health.
In 2007 the Forbes magazine named Kebede eleventh in the list of the World’s 15 Top-Earning Supermodels.
In 2008 she launched her own clothing line “Lemlem”.
In 2009, Kebede worked with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation as part of their Living Proof Project in Ethiopia.
Liya is a strong supporter of the organization Champions for an HIV Free Generation.
In 2000 Liya married the Ethiopian hedge fund manager Kassy Kebede. They have two children and they live in New York City.
She founded the Liya Kebede foundation which is dedicated to saving the lives of mothers and children worldwide.
Kebede in one sentence – Liya is a beautiful woman with a great heart; her good deeds and unselfishness give the Ethiopia and whole of Africa hope for better tomorrow.
Go to Liya Kebede Gallery or to Beautiful Ethiopian Women
Always remember that true beauty comes from within.