Introduction: A Global Figure Beyond the Spotlight
Sometimes, when we think of models and public personalities, we picture glamorous magazine covers and red-carpet events. But for Sabrina Dhowre Elba, her role extends far beyond the runway or the camera lens. She represents a powerful blend of beauty, compassion, activism, and purpose — using her platform not just for fame, but for real change. As a model, entrepreneur, activist, and humanitarian, Sabrina brings visibility and action to issues many overlook. Her story is a reminder that influence, when wielded responsibly, can make a difference.
Born in Canada to Somali heritage, Sabrina’s path took her from modest beginnings to international stages — and from there, into global activism, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. Over the years, she has broadened what it means to be “a model,” by redefining beauty, amplifying marginalized voices, and tackling climate, gender, and food-security issues across continents.
In this article, we’ll explore the journey of Sabrina Dhowre Elba: how she rose in modeling; why she channels her influence into humanitarian work; what causes she champions; and how she balances her many roles while staying true to her values.
From Montreal to Global Runways: The Rise of a Model
Sabrina Dhowre Elba was born in Montreal, Canada, and is of Somali descent. Wikipedia+1 She spent part of her childhood in Canada and later moved to Vancouver — a shift that exposed her to new experiences and shaped her worldview. Wikipedia+1 Early on, she enrolled at what would become her alma mater, earning a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. Wikipedia+1
Her modeling journey began in earnest not long after — standing out not only for her striking looks but also for her poise, heritage, and presence. In 2014, she was crowned “Ms. Vancouver,” an early sign that she had the charisma and presence to stand out. Wikipedia+2Yahoo+2 Over time, she began working with top modeling agencies, including IMG Models (London), which helped catapult her onto international platforms. Wikipedia+1
Sabrina’s modeling career has included appearances in high-fashion magazines like British Vogue and Elle, among others. One Young World+2Urban Woman Magazine+2 But more than gloss and glamour, Sabrina brought something unique to the industry: a representation of Black beauty, Somali heritage, and a confidence that transcended traditional beauty norms. As someone rooted in multiple cultures, she offers a different — and needed — narrative in a space that historically lacked diversity.
Yet for Sabrina, modeling was only one facet of a broader vision. Even as she graced magazine spreads and editorial shoots, she held ambitions beyond fashion. Her academic background in philosophy, combined with personal experiences and cultural heritage, shaped a deeper calling: to use visibility for advocacy and impact.
Activism & Advocacy: A Voice for Change
Sabrina Dhowre Elba’s commitment to activism and advocacy stems from her background and values. Growing up with Somali roots and navigating identities across continents, she developed a keen awareness of inequality, representation, and justice. Over time, she transformed that awareness into action.
In April 2020, she was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized agency of the United Nations. Wikipedia+2United Nations+2 In this role, she focuses especially on rural communities, smallholder farmers, climate resilience, and food security — issues that often go unnoticed by the broader global audience. United Nations+2BORGEN+2
What’s striking about her activism is how she combines celebrity influence with grassroots connection. For example, during visits to projects in Africa, she meets farmers directly, listens to their stories, and amplifies their voices. Her trip to Kenya resulted in “diary entries” that documented the realities of climate stress, agricultural hardship, and rural resilience — giving a human face to global issues. BORGEN+2SHFT+2
Sabrina’s advocacy also centers on gender equality and empowerment of women and girls. She recognizes that women often bear the brunt of food insecurity, climate vulnerability, and lack of access to resources — especially in rural areas. As such, her activism intertwines social justice, climate justice, and gender justice. United Nations+2One Young World+2
Her commitment extends beyond individual campaigns. She collaborates with civil society organizations, environmental NGOs, and grassroots initiatives. Organizations she works with include Conservation International (on environmental issues), Farm Africa (supporting farmers), as well as being co-chair of the European board for Global Citizen. University of Portsmouth+2One Young World+2
By bridging the world of fashion, media, and activism, Sabrina shows that influence isn’t just about visibility — it’s about responsibility. She uses her platform to spark dialogue, raise awareness, and push for tangible change globally.
Entrepreneurship and Purpose: S’ABLE Labs & Ethical Beauty
Sabrina’s dedication to social impact doesn’t stop at activism — she channels her values into entrepreneurship. In 2022, she co-founded a wellness and skincare brand called S’ABLE Labs together with her husband. elbahopefoundation.org+2Urban Woman Magazine+2 The brand is more than a commercial venture — it’s a mission-driven initiative rooted in representation, inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural respect.
The inspiration behind S’ABLE Labs comes from Sabrina’s own experiences. Growing up with Somali heritage, she was familiar with natural skincare traditions — ingredients like baobab, qasil, black seed, and other botanicals that have been used for generations across Africa. S’ABLE brings those traditions into a modern context, producing genderless, melanin-inclusive skincare products. Condé Nast Traveler+2University of Portsmouth+2
But the mission goes deeper: S’ABLE Labs aims to support smallholder farmers and communities who grow and source these botanicals. By doing so, Sabrina links beauty to ethical supply chains, fair trade, and community empowerment. University of Portsmouth+2Farm Africa+2 The brand’s commitment to sustainability and transparency reflects Sabrina’s broader values — fostering dignity, representation, and respect for origin.
Through S’ABLE Labs, Sabrina demonstrates how entrepreneurship can be a vehicle for social impact, cultural celebration, and economic justice. She transforms personal heritage and lived experience into a global brand that stands for something meaningful.
Global Recognition: Awards, Influence, and Leadership
Sabrina Dhowre Elba’s work has not gone unnoticed. Her efforts bridging activism, modeling, entrepreneurship, and advocacy have earned her global recognition and awards. For instance, she — alongside her partner — received Crystal Award at the World Economic Forum in 2023, for her leadership addressing food security, climate change, and environmental conservation. elbahopefoundation.org+2World Economic Forum+2
She was also honored among recipients at the TIME100 Impact Awards — a recognition that underscores her influence beyond entertainment, highlighting tangible impact in global humanitarian efforts. University of Portsmouth+2United Nations+2
Moreover, institutions continue to acknowledge her impact: in 2025 she was awarded an honorary doctorate (Doctor of the University) by a university recognizing her contributions to activism, empowerment of women and girls, and global humanitarian work. University of Portsmouth
These honors reflect not just her visibility, but the depth and sincerity of her commitment. They affirm that when celebrities engage with real issues — climate, food security, social justice — they can become powerful agents of change. Sabrina bridges worlds in a way few manage: runway, boardroom, grassroots, and global policymaking.
Balancing Fame, Family, and Purpose — Her Personal Philosophy
With so many roles—model, entrepreneur, activist, public speaker—Sabrina Dhowre Elba’s life could easily become overwhelming. But what stands out is how she balances these roles with grounded values, humility, and intention.
Part of this balance comes from deep roots: her Somali heritage, upbringing in Canada, and early experiences have shaped her worldview. In interviews, she has credited her mother as a major inspiration, instilling in her empathy, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. CNBC+2Broadbiography+2 Her background gives her a unique lens through which to view global issues — especially when it comes to identity, representation, and social justice.
Moreover, even as she builds businesses and speaks on global stages, Sabrina remains personally connected to the causes she champions. When visiting rural farms, she doesn’t just pose for photos — she listens to stories, asks questions, meets families, and engages directly. BORGEN+2SHFT+2 This hands-on approach keeps her grounded, reminding her (and her audience) that real change starts with real people.
In her business with S’ABLE Labs, she emphasizes community over consumerism — building a brand that respects origin, supports producers, and stays mindful of environmental impact. University of Portsmouth+2somalihopefoundation.ca+2 That balance — between ambition and authenticity, visibility and responsibility — is what makes her leadership style so effective and inspiring.
Impact & Legacy: Why Sabrina Dhowre Elba’s Work Matters
In a world often dominated by fleeting trends and surface-level fame, the work of Sabrina Dhowre Elba stands out for its depth, sincerity, and long-term impact. She demonstrates that public influence can — and should — carry responsibility.
Her advocacy for rural farmers, food security, climate resilience, and gender equality helps bring crucial but underrepresented issues into global conversations. By working with organizations like IFAD, Farm Africa, Conservation International, and Global Citizen, she helps bridge the gap between grassroots communities and international policymaking. United Nations+2Farm Africa+2
Through her entrepreneurial efforts with S’ABLE Labs, she challenges the status quo in the beauty industry — promoting inclusivity, cultural authenticity, and ethical supply chains. She transforms personal heritage into collective pride. This kind of leadership redefines success: not just as fame or fortune, but as meaningful impact.
Sabrina’s legacy isn’t just about what she has done — but also what she inspires others to do. Her journey shows that you don’t have to choose between career and conscience. You can walk runways, launch businesses, and still care about the world. You can use privilege to uplift, visibility to amplify, and talent to serve.
Conclusion: A Role Model for a New Generation
Sabrina Dhowre Elba stands as an example of how modern public figures can — and perhaps should — operate. She merges creativity with conscience, glamour with grit, ambition with empathy. In doing so, she redefines what it means to be a “model” or a “celebrity.”
Her journey from Montreal to global activism, from runway shoots to rural farms, shows that success isn’t just personal — it’s shared. Through her humanitarian work, business ventures, and public presence, Sabrina invites us to look beyond appearance and see purpose
