Liya Kebede is one of those rare figures who managed to change the fashion industry from the inside while staying true to her roots. Born in Ethiopia and raised in Addis Ababa, she broke barriers as the first Black spokesmodel for Estée Lauder and has graced the cover of Vogue 20 times. But what makes her story truly compelling is how she used that platform to advocate for maternal health and empower women back home.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Liya Kebede |
| Date of Birth | March 1, 1978 |
| Place of Birth | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia |
| Nationality | Ethiopian |
| Ethnicity | Amhara |
| Partner | Kassy Kebede (ex-husband, divorced 2015) |
| Children | Suhul Kebede (b. 2000); Raee Kebede (b. 2005) |
| Occupations | Model, actress, maternal health advocate, clothing designer, entrepreneur |
| Net Worth | $18 million (2025 estimate) |
Early Life and Education
Liya was born on March 1, 1978, in Addis Ababa, the bustling capital of Ethiopia. She grew up in a close-knit, well-educated family as the only daughter among four brothers. Her father worked for Ethiopian Airlines, and her mother was in public relations, so education was always a priority in the household.
She attended Lycée Guebre Mariam, a French international school, where she became fluent in Amharic, English, and French. Like many ambitious kids, she was told to focus on her studies, but fashion had other plans. A film director spotted her during her school years and introduced her to a French modeling agency, and that chance encounter changed everything.
Career
Modeling
After finishing school, Liya moved to Paris to chase her modeling dreams, eventually making her way to New York. Her big break came in 2000 when Tom Ford cast her for Gucci’s Fall/Winter runway show. From there, her career took off. She walked for Ralph Lauren, Yves Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, and even Victoria’s Secret.
In 2003, she made history as the first Black model to become the face of Estée Lauder, signing a multi-million dollar contract that paved the way for more diversity in beauty campaigns.
Entrepreneurship – LemLem
In 2007, Liya launched LemLem, a clothing brand named after the Amharic word for “bloom.” The brand was more than just fashion, it was a mission to revive traditional Ethiopian handweaving and create jobs for local artisans. Most of the garments are still made in Ethiopia, and the brand partners with East African non-profits to spread awareness about maternal health.
Humanitarian Work
In 2005, she was appointed as a World Health Organization Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health. Through her foundation and public advocacy, she’s worked tirelessly to improve maternal healthcare access in developing countries, earning her recognition as one of Glamour’s Women of the Year.
Personal Life
Liya was married to Kassy Kebede, a hedge fund manager, from 2000 until they separated in 2013, with their divorce finalized in 2015. Together, they have two children: a son, Suhul, born in 2000, and a daughter, Raee, born in 2005. She’s kept her family life relatively private, focusing instead on her work and advocacy.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Liya Kebede’s net worth is estimated at around $18 million, built through her modeling contracts, acting roles, and her successful fashion brand.
Filmography
Liya has also made her mark on screen, appearing in a range of international films:
- Lord of War (2005) – Faith
- The Good Shepherd (2006) – Miriam
- Desert Flower (2009) – Waris Dirie
- Black Gold (2011) – Aicha
- The Best Offer (2013) – Sarah
- Samba (2014) – Gracieuse
- Mogadishu, Minnesota (2016, TV) – Maryam
- 419 (2020) – Grace
- A Fire Within (2022)
- Furcy, né libre (2025)
Awards and Recognition
- Appointed WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (2005)
- First Black spokesmodel for Estée Lauder (2003)
- Named one of Glamour’s Women of the Year
- Recognized among the World’s Top 15 Top-Earning Supermodels
- Champion for an HIV-Free Generation initiative
