Liya Kebede is a unique figure, at the crossroads of fashion, film and social activism.

Born in Addis Ababa, she made a name for herself as an international model before becoming one of the most iconic faces of her generation, working with the world’s leading fashion houses.

Beyond the catwalks, she has developed a career as an actress and is actively committed to maternal health through her foundation, Lemlem, which is dedicated to empowering African craftswomen.

  • Un café avec Liya Kebele, bar Momus du Pop Up organisé au Bon Marche
  • Un café avec Liya Kebele au bon marché présentant son blend Book&cappuccino
  • Un café avec Liya Kebele au bon marché devant un verre de Cappuccino

    What’s your relationship with coffee?

    Liya : Coffee is often seen as the writer’s and reader’s best companion. Yet I don’t really like coffee… only café au lait. And I’m Ethiopian. It’s almost heresy. In Ethiopia, coffee is everywhere; it’s a very strong tradition. But you’re introduced to it at a very young age. I remember: we’d sit with our parents, they’d give us a little… and it was incredibly bitter. There was no sugar.

    Any particularly vivid memories?

    Liya : As a child, I found it almost overwhelming. Coffee takes some getting used to. You learn to appreciate it and understand it over time. I’m more of a cappuccino person. I love the foam. That’s what got me into coffee. Cappuccino is a gentler introduction. Even though I know milk isn’t always ideal… I always come back to it.

    Which book would you recommend to go with a cappuccino?

    Liya : Murakami’s 1Q84. It’s an almost immersive read. With a cappuccino, there’s something very harmonious about it. It’s an experience.

    And the ideal setting?

    Liya : A terrace in Italy. Rome or Venice. A bit of sunshine. A cappuccino, a Murakami… and my partner.

    Which book do you like to give as a gift?

    Liya : *Giovanni’s Room* by James Baldwin. It’s a magnificent, deeply moving book. I love passing it on.

    A book you’ve never finished?

    Liya : That’s a problem for me… I finish everything. Even if I don’t like it, even if it’s difficult, I see it through to the end. Except for the Bible. I’ve tried several times… in English. I just can’t bring myself to finish it.

    And today, what’s in your bag?
    Liya : I’m re-reading *Ilium* by Dan Simmons. I recommended it to a friend, who found it a bit of a slog to get into. So I thought to myself: I’ll re-read it with her. And I’m realising just how much I love this book.