Lailat Messika (The Messika Night)
Valérie Messika has always felt a deeper connection with the Middle East. Gathering intense experiences, whether it be expeditions across the desert or the beauty of quality time spent with her daughters, Valérie has forged strong ties with this part of the world. 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.
As such, six renowned women from the Arabian Peninsula invited the designer to join them for a traditional Suhoor meal. Valérie took up the invitation without hesitation: “It was a real honour to be invited by these women to share in the warmth of Suhoor. It was a special moment that helped me feel and better understand the love I’ve received from the region for many years”.
Around a table full of Middle Eastern delights, the meal was like a suspended moment of joy, sharing and emotion for its guests. Shot by award-winning Emirati director Abdulla Al Kaabi and photographer Moez Achour, the night was a time for open conversations, as Valérie 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 by their side”.
Emirati singer Almas and journalist Nada Al Shaibani, originally from Bahrain, are both strong, free individuals who are always on the move, just like the Maison’s own diamonds. Free and inspired, the Messika woman has many faces. She’s also a symbol of success and perseverance , mirrored perfectly by the exceptional careers of Saudi chef Sama Jaad and Qatari Artist Alftoon Al Janahi. Women are no longer afraid to express their many sides, a duality encapsulated by the young Saudi actress Mila Al Zahrani. Finally, Messika is a story of passion, a value shared by Kuwaiti actress Eman Al Hussaini, who embodies the trait in each of her roles.
This Suhoor became a symbol for forging ties and being immersed in the moment, in a cosy, warm atmosphere conducive to sharing, with each of the guests wearing iconic pieces from the Maison. Just like a diamond, their many facets reflected a subtle balance of softness and strength. True beating hearts within their families, these women are also modern, liberated entrepreneurs. More than ever, for Valérie Messika, the women of the Middle East are a true source of inspiration and a fresh, authentic breath of creativity.
