Liya Kebede is an Ethiopian-born model, actress, maternal health advocate, and fashion designer. She is the first black woman to appear on the cover of French Vogue and has been featured on the covers of several other international fashion magazines. Kebede is also the founder of the Lemlem Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports maternal health initiatives in Ethiopia.
Kebede was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 1978. She began her modeling career in 2000, when she was discovered by a modeling agent while working as a receptionist in Paris. Kebede quickly gained recognition for her striking beauty and unique look, and soon became one of the most sought-after models in the world. She has walked the runways for top fashion designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Prada, and has appeared in campaigns for major brands such as Gap, H&M, and Victoria's Secret.
In addition to her modeling career, Kebede is also an active philanthropist. She is a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, and she has worked to raise awareness about maternal health issues in Ethiopia. In 2005, she founded the Lemlem Foundation, which provides financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in Ethiopia. The foundation has helped to improve access to healthcare for thousands of women and children, and has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates.
Kebede is a role model for women around the world. She has shown that it is possible to be successful in the fashion industry while also making a positive impact on the world. She is an inspiration to all who believe that fashion can be a force for good.
Liya Kebede
Liya Kebede is an Ethiopian-born model, activist, and entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on the fashion industry and beyond. Here are eight key aspects of her life and work:
- Supermodel: Kebede is one of the most successful models in the world, having graced the covers of countless magazines and walked the runways for top fashion designers.
- Activist: Kebede is a passionate advocate for maternal health in Ethiopia. She founded the Lemlem Foundation, which provides financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in the country.
- Entrepreneur: Kebede is the founder and creative director of Lemlem, a sustainable fashion brand that produces clothing and accessories made by Ethiopian artisans.
- Role model: Kebede is a role model for women around the world. She has shown that it is possible to be successful in the fashion industry while also making a positive impact on the world.
- Inspiration: Kebede's story is an inspiration to all who believe that fashion can be a force for good.
- Global Goodwill Ambassador: Kebede is a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, where she works to raise awareness about maternal health issues.
- Philanthropist: Kebede's philanthropic work has helped to improve the lives of thousands of women and children in Ethiopia.
- Changemaker: Kebede is a changemaker who is using her platform to make the world a better place.
Liya Kebede is a true pioneer. She is a successful model, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who is using her platform to make a positive impact on the world. She is an inspiration to all who believe that fashion can be a force for good.
1. Supermodel
Liya Kebede's success as a supermodel has played a significant role in her ability to make a positive impact on the world. As one of the most successful models in the world, Kebede has a global platform that she uses to raise awareness about important issues, such as maternal health in Ethiopia. She has also used her platform to promote diversity in the fashion industry and to empower women around the world.
Kebede's success as a supermodel has also allowed her to launch her own businesses, including the Lemlem Foundation and the Lemlem fashion brand. These businesses have not only created jobs and boosted the Ethiopian economy, but they have also helped to promote Ethiopian culture and traditions.
Kebede's story is an inspiration to all who believe that they can use their platform to make a positive impact on the world. She is a role model for women around the world, and she is proof that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.
2. Activist
Liya Kebede's activism is closely connected to her Ethiopian heritage. She was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and she has witnessed firsthand the challenges that women face in accessing healthcare in her home country. Maternal mortality rates in Ethiopia are among the highest in the world, and Kebede is determined to make a difference.
- Maternal Health Advocate: Kebede is a passionate advocate for maternal health in Ethiopia. She founded the Lemlem Foundation in 2005 to provide financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in the country. The foundation has helped to improve access to healthcare for thousands of women and children, and has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates.
- Global Goodwill Ambassador: Kebede is a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, where she works to raise awareness about maternal health issues. She has also worked with the Clinton Global Initiative to launch a new initiative to improve maternal health in Ethiopia.
- Role Model: Kebede is a role model for women around the world. She has shown that it is possible to be successful in the fashion industry while also making a positive impact on the world. She is an inspiration to all who believe that fashion can be a force for good.
Kebede's activism is making a real difference in the lives of women and children in Ethiopia. She is a true advocate for maternal health, and she is using her platform to make the world a better place.
3. Entrepreneur
Liya Kebede's entrepreneurial ventures, particularly the establishment of Lemlem, are deeply intertwined with her Ethiopian heritage and her commitment to empowering her community. By creating a sustainable fashion brand rooted in Ethiopian traditions and craftsmanship, Kebede has not only fostered economic opportunities but also celebrated and preserved Ethiopian culture on a global scale.
- Cultural Heritage and Empowerment: Lemlem serves as a platform for Kebede to showcase the beauty and diversity of Ethiopian craftsmanship. Through collaborations with local artisans and the use of traditional techniques, she empowers Ethiopian communities and promotes cultural preservation.
- Sustainable Fashion and Ethical Practices: Lemlem's commitment to sustainability aligns with Kebede's advocacy for responsible fashion practices. The brand utilizes eco-friendly materials, supports fair labor practices, and promotes ethical sourcing, contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry.
- Economic Impact and Job Creation: Lemlem's success has generated economic opportunities and created jobs for Ethiopian artisans. The brand's global reach has provided a wider market for their skills, improving their livelihoods and contributing to the Ethiopian economy.
- Global Recognition and Representation: Lemlem has garnered international recognition for its unique designs and ethical practices. By showcasing Ethiopian craftsmanship on a global stage, Kebede has contributed to a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry, breaking down stereotypes and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
Kebede's entrepreneurial pursuits, exemplified by Lemlem, are a testament to her passion for Ethiopia and her belief in the power of fashion to create positive change. Through her commitment to sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment, she has established Lemlem as a force for good, both in Ethiopia and beyond.
4. Role model
Liya Kebede is a role model for women around the world because she has shown that it is possible to be successful in the fashion industry while also making a positive impact on the world. She is a successful supermodel, but she also uses her platform to advocate for important issues, such as maternal health in Ethiopia. She is also the founder of the Lemlem Foundation, which provides financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in Ethiopia. Kebede's work has helped to improve the lives of thousands of women and children in Ethiopia, and she is an inspiration to everyone who believes that fashion can be a force for good.
Kebede's success as a supermodel has given her a global platform that she uses to raise awareness about important issues. She has spoken out about the need for maternal health care in Ethiopia, and she has worked with the Clinton Global Initiative to launch a new initiative to improve maternal health in the country. Kebede is also a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, and she works to raise awareness about maternal health issues around the world.
Kebede's work is making a real difference in the lives of women and children in Ethiopia. She is a true role model for women around the world, and she is an inspiration to everyone who believes that fashion can be a force for good.
5. Inspiration
Liya Kebede's story is an inspiration to all who believe that fashion can be a force for good because it shows that it is possible to use one's platform to make a positive impact on the world. Kebede is a successful supermodel, but she also uses her platform to advocate for important issues, such as maternal health in Ethiopia. She is also the founder of the Lemlem Foundation, which provides financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in Ethiopia. Kebede's work has helped to improve the lives of thousands of women and children in Ethiopia, and she is an inspiration to everyone who believes that fashion can be a force for good.
Kebede's story is particularly inspiring because she has been able to use her success in the fashion industry to make a difference in the world. She is a role model for women around the world, and she shows that it is possible to be successful in fashion while also making a positive impact on the world.
Kebede's story is also important because it shows that fashion can be a force for good. Fashion is often seen as a frivolous industry, but Kebede's story shows that it can be used to make a positive impact on the world. Kebede's work is an inspiration to everyone who believes that fashion can be a force for good, and it shows that it is possible to use one's platform to make a difference in the world.
6. Global Goodwill Ambassador
Liya Kebede's role as a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization (WHO) is a significant aspect of her identity as "liya kebede ethiopian." As a Global Goodwill Ambassador, Kebede utilizes her platform and influence to advocate for improved maternal health outcomes, particularly in Ethiopia and other developing countries.
Maternal health remains a critical issue in many parts of the world, with Ethiopia facing particularly high rates of maternal mortality. Kebede's work as a Global Goodwill Ambassador enables her to shed light on these disparities and advocate for increased access to quality maternal healthcare services.
Through her ambassadorship, Kebede engages in various initiatives aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and mobilizing resources to address maternal health challenges. She collaborates with WHO and other organizations to implement programs that promote prenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postpartum support.
Kebede's advocacy efforts as a Global Goodwill Ambassador have contributed to increased global attention and support for maternal health. Her work aligns with her personal commitment to improving the lives of women and children in her home country and beyond. By leveraging her position as a renowned model and philanthropist, Kebede amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and advocates for their health and well-being.
7. Philanthropist
Liya Kebede's philanthropic work is deeply connected to her Ethiopian heritage and her commitment to giving back to her community. As a philanthropist, Kebede has dedicated herself to improving maternal health and empowering women and children in Ethiopia.
- Maternal Health Advocate: Kebede is a passionate advocate for maternal health in Ethiopia. She founded the Lemlem Foundation in 2005 to provide financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in the country. The foundation has helped to improve access to healthcare for thousands of women and children, and has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates.
- Education and Empowerment: Kebede believes that education is key to empowering women and children. She has supported the construction of schools in Ethiopia and provides scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Kebede's philanthropic efforts are helping to break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for the people of Ethiopia.
- Economic Development: Kebede's philanthropic work also has a positive impact on the Ethiopian economy. The Lemlem Foundation creates jobs and supports local businesses. Kebede's commitment to sustainable fashion through her brand, Lemlem, also contributes to economic development in Ethiopia.
- Cultural Preservation: Kebede is proud of her Ethiopian heritage and she uses her platform to promote Ethiopian culture and traditions. The Lemlem Foundation supports cultural initiatives and Kebede has worked to preserve traditional Ethiopian crafts and textiles.
Liya Kebede's philanthropic work is making a real difference in the lives of thousands of women and children in Ethiopia. She is a true philanthropist and an inspiration to all who believe in the power of giving back.
8. Changemaker
Liya Kebede is a changemaker who is using her platform to make the world a better place. As a supermodel, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, she has dedicated her life to improving the lives of others, particularly in her home country of Ethiopia. Kebede's work is driven by her passion for social justice and her belief that everyone deserves a chance to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
One of the most important aspects of Kebede's work is her advocacy for maternal health. She founded the Lemlem Foundation in 2005 to provide financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in Ethiopia. The foundation has helped to improve access to healthcare for thousands of women and children, and has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates. Kebede's work in this area is particularly important given the high rates of maternal mortality in Ethiopia.
In addition to her work on maternal health, Kebede is also a passionate advocate for education and empowerment. She believes that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a better future for the people of Ethiopia. Kebede has supported the construction of schools in Ethiopia and provides scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. She also works to promote traditional Ethiopian crafts and textiles through her brand, Lemlem.
Kebede's work is making a real difference in the world. She is a true changemaker who is using her platform to make the world a better place. Her work is an inspiration to all of us to use our own platforms to make a positive impact on the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Liya Kebede, Ethiopian Supermodel and Activist
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Liya Kebede, the Ethiopian supermodel, activist, and philanthropist:
Question 1: What is Liya Kebede famous for?
Answer: Liya Kebede is a supermodel, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She is best known for her work as a supermodel, having graced the covers of countless magazines and walked the runways for top fashion designers. She is also known for her activism and philanthropy, particularly her work to improve maternal health in Ethiopia.
Question 2: Where is Liya Kebede from?
Answer: Liya Kebede was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She is proud of her Ethiopian heritage and uses her platform to promote Ethiopian culture and traditions.
Question 3: What is the Lemlem Foundation?
Answer: The Lemlem Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by Liya Kebede in 2005. The foundation provides financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in Ethiopia. The foundation has helped to improve access to healthcare for thousands of women and children, and has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates.
Question 4: What is Liya Kebede's role as a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization?
Answer: As a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, Liya Kebede works to raise awareness about maternal health issues and to advocate for improved maternal health outcomes, particularly in Ethiopia and other developing countries.
Question 5: What is Liya Kebede's fashion brand, Lemlem?
Answer: Lemlem is a sustainable fashion brand founded by Liya Kebede. The brand produces clothing and accessories made by Ethiopian artisans. Lemlem's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices aligns with Kebede's activism and philanthropy.
Question 6: Why is Liya Kebede an inspiration to others?
Answer: Liya Kebede is an inspiration to others because she has used her platform to make a positive impact on the world. She is a role model for women around the world, and she shows that it is possible to be successful in fashion while also making a difference in the world.
Liya Kebede is a true changemaker who is using her platform to make the world a better place. Her work is an inspiration to all of us to use our own platforms to make a positive impact on the world.
Transition to the next article section: Liya Kebede's story is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference in the world. We can use our voices, our talents, and our resources to make the world a better place.
Liya Kebede's Tips for Making a Difference in the World
Liya Kebede is a supermodel, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who is using her platform to make the world a better place. She has shared some of her tips for making a difference in the world:
Tip 1: Use your voice
Liya Kebede uses her voice to speak out about important issues, such as maternal health in Ethiopia. You can use your voice to speak out about issues that you care about, too. You can write letters to your elected officials, volunteer for organizations that you support, or simply talk to your friends and family about the issues that matter to you.
Tip 2: Use your talents
Liya Kebede uses her talents as a model and designer to raise awareness about important issues and to generate funds for her foundation. You can use your talents to make a difference in the world, too. You can volunteer your time, donate money, or simply use your skills to help others.
Tip 3: Use your resources
Liya Kebede uses her resources to support her foundation and the work that she does. You can use your resources to make a difference in the world, too. You can donate money to organizations that you support, volunteer your time, or simply share your knowledge and expertise with others.
Tip 4: Be persistent
Liya Kebede has faced many challenges in her life, but she has never given up on her dreams. She has persisted in her work to improve maternal health in Ethiopia, and she has made a real difference in the lives of many women and children. You can be persistent in your own efforts to make a difference in the world. Don't give up on your dreams, and don't let anyone tell you that you can't make a difference.
Tip 5: Be passionate
Liya Kebede is passionate about her work to improve maternal health in Ethiopia. She is driven by her belief that every woman deserves to have access to quality healthcare. You can be passionate about your own efforts to make a difference in the world. Find something that you care about, and let that passion drive you to make a difference.
Summary: Liya Kebede's tips for making a difference in the world are simple: use your voice, use your talents, use your resources, be persistent, and be passionate. If you follow these tips, you can make a real difference in the world.
Transition to the article's conclusion: Liya Kebede is an inspiration to us all. She shows us that we all have the power to make a difference in the world. We can use our voices, our talents, and our resources to make the world a better place.
Liya Kebede
Liya Kebede is an Ethiopian supermodel, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who is using her platform to make the world a better place. She is a role model for women around the world, and she shows that it is possible to be successful in fashion while also making a difference in the world.
Kebede's work focuses on improving maternal health in Ethiopia and empowering women and children. She is the founder of the Lemlem Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides financial and technical support to maternal health clinics in Ethiopia. Kebede is also a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization, and she works to raise awareness about maternal health issues around the world.
Kebede's work is making a real difference in the lives of women and children in Ethiopia. She is a true changemaker, and she is an inspiration to us all.
We can all learn from Kebede's example and use our own platforms to make a difference in the world. We can use our voices to speak out about important issues, we can use our talents to help others, and we can use our resources to support organizations that are working to make the world a better place.
Together, we can make a difference.