TM has a sneak peek to the following letter from Karen Fondu, President of L’Oréal Paris, announcing Liya Kebede as the brand’s latest spokesperson.

June 21, 2011. “I am pleased to announce Liya Kebede, international model, actress and entrepreneur, as our latest global brand ambassador. A strong, inspiring woman and true humanitarian, we are proud to welcome Liya into the L’Oréal Paris family.

By joining L’Oréal Paris, Liya becomes part of a remarkable roster of spokespeople, including Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Lopez, Julianna Margulies, Freida Pinto and Andie MacDowell.

Liya left her Ethiopian hometown at the age of 18 to pursue a modeling career in France, where she quickly made a name for herself working with top designers and gracing the pages of international fashion magazines. While she remains a key figure in the modeling world, her talent extends to the film industry, including acting roles in The Good Shepherd and Desert Flower. What’s more, Liya is passionate about humanitarian causes. A mother herself, she is an advocate for mothers and children across the world, dedicating extensive efforts to maternal, neonatal and infant healthcare. In 2005, she was nominated as a Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organization (WHO) and soon after, established the Liya Kebede Foundation to raise money and provide healthcare material for Durame Hospital in Ethiopia. Liya’s passion for giving back also led to the creation of her charitable clothing line, Lemlem.

A beauty inside and out, Liya fully represents our brand philosophy and we look forward to an exciting partnership with her.”

Warmest regards,

Karen T. Fondu

President, L’Oréal Paris