As Ramadan is ushered in, it overwhelms us with its holy spirit, filling our hearts with joy, happiness and forgiveness. In addition to the religious values that Ramadan reflects on; it is the time to cherish relationships and create memories with our loved ones as we gather around a meal for Iftar or Suhoor.
Valérie Messika appreciates this element and delightfully indulges in one of Ramadan’s charming experiences with six renowned women from the Arabian Peninsula and tells The Kurator all about it.
“I’m obsessed with the Middle East and particularly the women of the Middle East, because they are inspiring to me,” she tells us and it’s no wonder she is.
Valérie Messika has forged strong ties with this part of the world through her litany of intense experiences across the region. Ranging from expeditions across the desert to the beauty of quality time spent with her daughters, this latest experience is yet another memory being created today.
Without any hesitation, the designer accepted the invitation from those women to join them for a traditional Suhoor. She tells us: “Having Suhoor with these women pays tribute to Ramadan, it shows how important this month is to them, how they feel during this time of the year and what their role is; I am bringing many ideas and wonderful inspiration back to France with me.”
Around a table full of Middle Eastern delights, the ladies gathered together in what seemed like a moment that can only be described as being suspended in joy. Valérie Messika joined Emirati singer Almas and journalist Nada Al Shaibani, Saudi Chef Sama Jaad, Qatari designer Alftoon Al Janahi, Saudi actress Mila Al Zahrani, and Kuwaiti actress Eman Al Hussaini, for a night to remember, captured by the lenses of award-winning Emirati director Abdulla Al Kaabi and photographer Moez Achour. As Valérie Messika explains: “It was a very touching, intense experience. I had the pleasure of spending it with inspiring women who are paving the way for future generations, each of whom embodies the spirit of our Maison in their own way. Freedom, sharing, passion, not to mention the spirit of entrepreneurship —these are all values that I felt intensely in their company.”
Much more than just a professional meeting, the story is one of true friendship and even family, which Valérie Messika has developed over the years. In her own words, she excitedly describes that magical bond between her, this part of the world she cherishes, and the women in this region. She also embraces the qualities they possess and the values they hold to: “I come to the region regularly, so I used to have some friends here, almost a family. Unsurprisingly then, I know Middle Eastern women very well. I know how they are integral to the family and in society, playing a leading role, and I respect them so much because they are an inspiring balance between strength and softness. They are the link to the future while also being very respectful of tradition. I used to compare women in the Middle East to diamonds because a diamond is very delicate, brilliant but only a diamond can break a diamond, it’s very strong but when you look at a diamond it’s like fluid, feminine.”
The spirit of Ramadan means connecting people together and jewellery deeply resonates with this concept through the act of gifting. Valérie Messika emphasises: “You know, in the Arabic tradition, there is significance in giving gold to another person, and we celebrate this tradition with novelties through a dedicated collection which resonates with everyone. Jewellery is the heart of gifting and Ramadan is the moment for gifting and to create joy and good memories,” she continues.
With each guest wearing classic pieces from the Maison, this Suhoor became a metaphor for creating bonds and being in the moment, in a comfortable, pleasant atmosphere ideal for sharing. Their numerous facets, like those of a diamond, showed a subtle balance of tenderness and strength. These women are not just the beating hearts of their families, but they are also modern, free entrepreneurs. Women from the Middle East are a great source of inspiration and a new, authentic breath of creativity for Valérie Messika, now more than ever.
