About Me
Dear SuperModel,
Liya Kebede ♥
I Model For Famous Brands [I'm Sorry. I can't name all. Too many!]
"Please Do Not Message Me Asking Me if I Am Real. You Do Not Need To Belive That I'm Liya Kebede"
~FACTS~
I was born and raised in Addis Ababa,[Ethiopia].Yes, I am Ethiopian. I grew up in a comfortable middle-class family. I was the only girl among four boys. I started with a fashion show at my school. An art director noticed me and introduced me to a French modeling agency. After finishing my studies, I moved to Paris. As a young woman, I did modeling in Ethiopia. In Ethiopia,I had to provide my own shoes for each runway show. While in school at the French Lycee, a film director spotted me and introduced me to a French modelling agent. After completing my studies, I moved to France to pursue work through a local Parisian agency. After a short time, I re-located to New York City where I currently reside with my husband Kassy Kebede and my son and daughter.I have been seen on the covers of Italian, Japanese and Spanish Vogue, V, French, Flair, i-D and Time's Style & Design.I am one of very few ethnically African models featured in major fashion photo shoots and runway shows.I am often used in haute couture and other high-class clothing campaigns, as well as Victoria's Secret (though I am not the curvy, busty Swimsuit model type Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell were).I have been featured in ad campaigns including Gap, YSL, Emanuel Ungaro, Tommy Hilfiger, Dolce & Gabbana and currently in S/S 2004 ads for Escada and Louis Vuitton.I was recently named the newest face of Estee Lauder cosmetics, the first black to serve as their representative in the company's 57-year history. This compelled the New York Times to write an article about how I have successfully triumphed over the challenges that face models of color in today's industry.I have also established myself amongst the ranks of fashion's elite on the NY - Milan - Paris runway circuit.My big break came when Tom Ford asked me to walk in exclusive for his Gucci A/W 2000 fashion show. In 2005,I was appointed as WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health.I currently live in New York City with my wonderful husband Kassy Kebede and son adorable Suhul and my baby girl,Raee.
