Leila Ndabirabe, widely known in the fashion industry as Leila Nda, is an international fashion model who was born in Burundi in 1990. At the age of ten, she moved to Brussels, Belgium, where she spent most of her formative years. While she pursued her studies as a dedicated law student, her passion for modeling remained strong. Inspired by the creativity and opportunities within the fashion industry, Leila dreamed of becoming a professional model. Her ambitions became reality when she was discovered at the age of nineteen by a prominent model agency that immediately recognized her potential and natural presence. Interestingly, her first experience on the runway happened earlier at sixteen when she walked for Durlinger during a franchise presentation of the Colmar Group, marking an early step toward her modeling career.
Since beginning her professional modeling career, Leila Nda has quickly established herself among international models. With the support of leading model agencies that guide her career, she has appeared in many of the world’s most prestigious fashion publications. Her editorial modeling portfolio includes features in Vogue Italy, Vogue Japan, Vogue Portugal, Vogue USA, Teen Vogue, W Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar UK, Interview Magazine, Elle Italy, and Allure. These publications demonstrate the growing influence of Leila as a fashion model whose versatility allows her to thrive in editorial modeling environments.
In addition to her editorial success, Leila Nda has made a powerful impact on international runways. She has walked for renowned fashion houses including Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, Zac Posen, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Dries Van Noten, and Burberry. Her runway experience also includes appearances for Roberto Cavalli, Blumarine, Versace, Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Maison Margiela, Giambattista Valli, Dior, Marchesa, Chloé, Balmain, and the globally celebrated Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. These shows illustrate how modern models collaborate with luxury brands through respected model agencies.
Leila Nda has also collaborated with several prominent fashion designers throughout her modeling career. Among them are Lebanese designer Elie Saab, Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani, and American designers Prabal Gurung and DKNY. Through these collaborations, Leila has strengthened her reputation as a versatile model capable of representing both high-fashion couture and contemporary fashion labels. Her journey highlights how talent, dedication, and the support of professional model agencies can transform passion into a successful modeling career.
