Liya Kebede is an Ethiopian supermodel, actress, and philanthropist whose name has become synonymous with beauty, grace, and empowerment. Over the years, she has become a leading figure in the global fashion scene, all while using her influence to shine a spotlight on important issues. From being the first African model to grace the covers of Vogue and becoming a UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, Liya’s story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and purpose.
In this in-depth article, we will explore every aspect of her life, career, and philanthropic work. From her early life in Ethiopia to becoming an international supermodel, actress, and advocate for maternal health, you will learn everything you need to know about this trailblazing icon.
Introduction to Liya Kebede
Liya Kebede’s journey from a young girl in Addis Ababa to a supermodel on the international stage is nothing short of inspiring. Born on March 1, 1978, in Ethiopia’s capital, Liya quickly rose to prominence and made history as one of the most successful African models in the fashion world. She was not only known for her striking beauty and tall, graceful frame but also for her intellect, elegance, and strong sense of self.
From her breakthrough moment in 2000 when she was featured on the cover of Vogue Paris to becoming the first Ethiopian model to sign a contract with Estée Lauder, Liya has consistently broken barriers. But her career isn’t just about her remarkable achievements in fashion. As a philanthropist, she has used her global platform to advocate for causes such as maternal health, and her work through the Liya Kebede Foundation has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless women and children.
Personal Details of Liya Kebede
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Liya Kebede |
| Date of Birth | March 1, 1978 |
| Place of Birth | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia |
| Nationality | Ethiopian |
| Profession | Supermodel, Actress, Philanthropist |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | 55 kg (121 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Body Measurements | 32-24-34 (81-61-86 cm) |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status | Divorced (from Kassy Kebede) |
| Spouse | Kassy Kebede (divorced) |
| Children | One son (Soleil), One daughter (Rahel) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $18 million |
| Languages Spoken | Amharic (native), English (fluent) |
| Hobbies | Traveling, Yoga, Photography, Cooking |
| Social Media Presence | Active on Instagram and Twitter |
Liya Kebede’s Early Life and Background
Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Liya Kebede’s early life was shaped by the rich culture of her homeland. Growing up in a middle-class family, she was always encouraged to pursue her interests. Unlike many young girls, she was introduced to the idea of modeling at a relatively late age. It wasn’t until she was spotted by a French modeling scout at the age of 18 that Liya’s modeling career began.
Ethiopia, at the time, was undergoing a period of social and political changes, and the idea of an African model being successful internationally was not yet a reality. Despite this, Liya’s beauty, combined with her intelligence and ability to adapt to the demanding world of fashion, propelled her career forward.
It was Liya’s deep connection to her Ethiopian roots that set her apart from others in the modeling industry. She never allowed the pressures of fitting into traditional Western beauty standards to erase her cultural identity. Liya proudly represented African beauty, something that was a rarity at the time in the fashion world.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Liya’s introduction to the modeling world was not something she had initially sought, but once she caught the attention of top scouts, there was no looking back. Her career skyrocketed after she signed with some of the top modeling agencies in Paris, and she quickly landed high-profile campaigns and runway shows.
However, her breakthrough moment came when she graced the cover of Vogue Paris in 2000. At the time, this was a groundbreaking achievement, as African models were not often seen on such prestigious platforms. Liya’s appearance on the cover cemented her position as one of the top models in the world, and soon after, she was walking the runways of major fashion houses like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, and Gucci.
Her tall frame and striking features made her an instant hit in the fashion world, but it was her confidence and poise that truly set her apart. As a model, she wasn’t just there to be seen; she was a true artist in every sense of the word, able to evoke emotion through her movements and expressions.
Liya Kebede’s Success as a Supermodel
From the moment she stepped onto the international fashion scene, Liya Kebede quickly established herself as one of the leading supermodels of her generation. Throughout the 2000s, she became a regular fixture in fashion campaigns for some of the world’s most prestigious brands. Her list of clients includes Chanel, Prada, Tommy Hilfiger, and Christian Dior.
Liya also made history in 2003 when she became the first Ethiopian model to sign an exclusive contract with Estée Lauder. This was an incredible achievement for Liya and African models in general. At the time, it was unheard of for African models to hold such significant positions in the fashion and beauty industry. Liya’s success became a symbol of progress and representation for African women in the fashion world.
Beyond magazine covers and runways, Liya was the face of several advertising campaigns, further solidifying her place as one of the top models globally. Her elegance and grace allowed her to seamlessly transition between high-fashion shoots, commercial ads, and runway shows, and this versatility was key to her continued success.
Transition into Acting and Hollywood
Although Liya’s primary focus was modeling, she also ventured into acting. In 2006, she starred in the film Desert Flower, based on the memoir of Somali model Waris Dirie. Liya’s portrayal of Dirie was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. The film, which deals with difficult subjects such as female genital mutilation and the hardships of living as an African woman, was both a critical and commercial success.
This acting project opened doors for Liya to work with top filmmakers and explore roles that aligned with her values. Although she did not pursue acting full-time, Liya’s role in Desert Flower showcased her talent and commitment to storytelling that highlights social issues.
Her acting career also helped expand her global reach, introducing her to new audiences and giving her a chance to speak on important global issues.
Philanthropy: Advocating for Women’s Health
One of the most admirable aspects of Liya Kebede’s career is her humanitarian efforts. While many supermodels are known for their glamorous lifestyles and high-profile partnerships, Liya’s work goes beyond that. In 2005, Liya was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), where she began her work advocating for maternal health in underdeveloped countries, particularly in her home country of Ethiopia.
Through her role as an ambassador, Liya brought international attention to the high rates of maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. She has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of access to healthcare for women in rural and underserved regions.
In addition to her work with the UNFPA, Liya also founded the Liya Kebede Foundation, which focuses on improving maternal health, advocating for women’s rights, and reducing maternal deaths. The foundation’s mission is to ensure that women, particularly those in Africa, have access to the care and support they need before, during, and after childbirth.
Through her philanthropy, Liya has helped change the narrative around maternal health, becoming one of the most prominent celebrity activists in the global health field.
Liya Kebede’s Personal Life
Liya Kebede’s personal life has been the subject of interest for many fans and media outlets. She was married to Kassy Kebede, a businessman, with whom she has two children. Although the couple is no longer together, Liya has remained focused on her children and has continued to raise them with love and attention.
In interviews, Liya has always emphasized the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. Despite her high-profile career and philanthropic efforts, she prioritizes spending quality time with her family and continues to put her children’s well-being first.
Liya’s personal life is also deeply rooted in her Ethiopian heritage. She regularly visits Ethiopia to stay connected to her roots and to continue supporting initiatives in her home country. Her sense of pride in her Ethiopian identity remains one of the core values that she promotes in both her personal and professional life.
Liya Kebede’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Liya Kebede’s net worth is estimated to be around $18 million. This wealth comes from her successful modeling career, acting roles, brand endorsements, and philanthropic endeavors. Over the years, Liya has built a financial empire that reflects her diverse interests and talents.
Her high-profile contracts with major brands like Estée Lauder and her work as a spokesperson for various humanitarian organizations have undoubtedly contributed to her impressive wealth. Additionally, Liya’s foundation has raised significant funds for maternal health initiatives, allowing her to expand her impact while also building a legacy that will last long into the future.
Liya’s career is proof that success doesn’t just come from fame but from passion, dedication, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
Liya Kebede’s Height and Physical Stats
Liya Kebede’s height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) is a defining feature of her appearance. In the modeling world, being tall is often a requirement, but Liya’s ability to use her height to create elegant and powerful runway walks has made her a standout. Her height also allowed her to excel in haute couture, where models are often required to showcase the most intricate and elaborate designs.
In addition to her height, Liya’s physical appearance is striking. She has dark brown hair and brown eyes, with a strong yet graceful facial structure that has made her a favorite of top photographers. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability in front of the camera has made her one of the most versatile models in the fashion industry.
FAQ
Q: What is Liya Kebede’s ethnicity?
A: Liya Kebede is of Ethiopian descent, born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Q: What was Liya Kebede’s breakthrough moment?
A: Liya’s breakthrough moment came when she appeared on the cover of Vogue Paris in 2000, making her one of the first African models to do so.
Q: What is Liya Kebede’s height?
A: Liya Kebede stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
Q: Is Liya Kebede married?
A: Liya Kebede was previously married to Kassy Kebede, with whom she has two children.
Q: What is Liya Kebede’s net worth?
A: Liya Kebede’s net worth is estimated to be around $18 million as of 2025.
Q: What philanthropic work is Liya Kebede involved in?
A: Liya Kebede is a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNFPA and the founder of the Liya Kebede Foundation, which focuses on improving maternal healthcare and women’s rights in Africa.
Conclusion
Liya Kebede is more than just a supermodel – she is an icon, an advocate, and a role model for millions of people worldwide. From her early days in Ethiopia to becoming a household name in the fashion world, Liya has used her platform to raise awareness for the causes that matter most to her. Whether it’s advocating for women’s rights, improving maternal healthcare, or representing African beauty in the fashion industry, Liya’s legacy is one of empowerment and change.
Her journey is a reminder that beauty goes beyond the surface, and true impact comes from using one’s position to create positive change. As Liya continues to inspire the next generation of women, her influence will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.
