Deepening the inextricable bond that Messika has forged with the Middle East, a place that continues to hold special meaning for Valérie Messika and her family, the Maison celebrates the spirit of Ramadan with an homage to the women of the region. Three empowered Arab women of diverse backgrounds and personalities, each an inspiration in her own right, look inwards, each reflecting on the journey that has brought her to where she stands today.
Saudi tennis player Yara Alhogbani was invited alongside Emirati designer Mariam Al Remaithi and Kuwait-based Lebanese actress Laila Abdallah for an introspective session that honours the spirit of reflection during Ramadan. Accepting the invitation without hesitation, the women demonstrated the essence of community, spirituality and femininity that is synonymous to the Messika woman.
“A large part of Ramadan is about introspection and committing oneself to growth and lasting change,” explained Yara Alhogbani. “I make sure to take the time to distance myself from distractions so that I’m able to see where I can personally improve to better the journey that I’m currently on.”
At just 18 years of age, Yara Alhogbani is the first female tennis player to represent the Kingdom professionally on an international level. Young, dynamic, and energetic, she possesses a magnetic appeal that ignites and inspires, just like the Maison’s signature diamonds. Her determination and perseverance are mirrored in Mariam Al Remaithi, who started pursuing her passion for clothing design from childhood. An acclaimed fashion designer, she has trailblazed her path to Paris, innovating and recalibrating benchmarks in a manner that is symbolic of Messika’s visionary designs.
“Ramadan has always been a source of inspiration for me,” elaborated Mariam Al Remaithi. “By tuning into my spiritual self, I am able to to recalibrate by creative vision and goals. There is a sense of serenity and demure elegance that is unique to Ramadan, which I tend to channel into my designs.”
A beloved figure in the region, Laila Abdallah is renowned for her multi-faceted and uniquely playful personality, attributes that are inherently ingrained within the values and sensibilities of Messika’s DNA.
Commenting on the significance of Ramadan in her life, Laila Abdallah said, “Ramadan is a time to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. It is a special month that brings peace to my soul, allowing me the opportunity to self-reflect and create invaluable memories with loved ones.”
In an intimate and private setting, the women took turns to self-introspect, sharing invaluable lessons and advice they learned on their self-made paths to success. Adorned in iconic pieces from Messika’s fine and high jewelry collections, each woman’s unique personal style and personality was accentuated. Looking to the past, the precious moments of Ramadan were relived whilst the future was visualised through hopes and dreams of things to come. The present became a moment of gratitude and inspiration, that they would continue to cherish for years to come.
“The women of the Middle East are some of the most inspirational I have encountered,” said Valérie Messika. “They possess strength and softness in equal parts, and have a quiet sense of determination that enables them to pursue success in a manner that is authentically their own.Yara, Mariam and Laila embody the values of the Messika woman. They are paving the way for future generations of Arab women on their own terms and their willingness to share their stories and learnings perfectly encapsulates the introspective essence of Ramadan.”
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