Her first major success came at the 1989 African Championships in Athletics, where she claimed the 3000 metres bronze medal. She improved a position to take the silver medal in the event at the 1990 African Championships in Athletics behind Derartu Tulu. Luchia came close to an individual medal at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships in 1990 and 1991, finishing fourth and taking the team silver medal on both occasions. She made her global track debut at the 1991 World Championships in Athletics, where she finished tenth in the 10,000 metres final. The following month she represented Ethiopia at the 1991 All-Africa Games and was the runner-up in the 3000 m behind Susan Sirma.