How were you discovered?
My mummy’s friend, a former male model, was organizing the Elite Model Look in Tunisia. He asked me if I wanted to spend a fun week in a luxurious hotel. I thought it would be fun. I wasn’t nervous, but at first, I didn’t like it because it was too serious for me. So I just went back to finish high school. Afterwards, I thought I should give it a try. The rest is history.
How did your family and friends react to your choice of career?
It was never a career choice per se. I did it at first because it was an incredible opportunity and I thought it would be a trial for one year. Hey, it’s been ten years! But my family has embraced my choices, mostly. I come from a family that prizes university and education before anything, so they had all their misconceptions about being a model, but that has changed. We have very few models in the Middle East because first of all, there is no real platform for them to emerge, and secondly, being a model doesn’t blend at all with the conservatism of the region.
Tell us about “By Kenz”.
By Kenz is an online cultural platform. I want to feature young talents. I also designed a capsule collection for By Kenz that will be available at the end of the month [May 2013]. I did it to showcase how I perceive fashion: timeless beautiful items that you will keep forever, items that transcend fashion trends.
What can you tell us about your charity projects?
I am involved with a single mothers foundation in Tunisia called “Amel et l’enfant”. This type of charity needs support now, more than ever, with this wave of conservatism in the region. Also, in NYC, my friend takes care of a nursing home for the elderly that was hit hard during Hurricane Sandy. I help her by bringing diapers, blankets, towels, etc. but more than anything, I spend time with all of these wonderful seniors that have so much to teach and to inspire.
What do we not know about Kenza Fourati?
I am a foodie. I am obsessed with food shows and recipes on the Internet. I love to cook.
Do you watch “Well Dunn with Jourdan Dunn”?
She told me about it but I never watched it yet!
What is your biggest fear?
Falling in the middle of the runway on sky-high heels. It is the most common fear for us models. It hasn’t happened… yet!
What is your beauty routine?
I take care of my skin and hair religiously.
When I am not working, I never really use makeup. I just curl my lashes.
But every night, after cleansing my skin with crealine, I use some Witch Hazel (a classical Amerindian remedy), leaving my skin feeling clean, soft, and silky. During the day, I often spray rose water and/or orange flower water that I buy in Tunisia. My makeup artist friends are obsessed with it and I often bring back tons in my luggage now.
What is your favorite model memory?
One very early morning during Milan Fashion Week, after hair and makeup, I found a quiet spot to have some calm for a minute before the next show. I had my eyes closed and someone started to touch my hair and makeup. I am so used to it that I just kept my eyes closed. When I did open them, it was Giorgio Armani himself applying lipstick on me!
Who are your fashion icons?
Kate Moss, Jane Birkin, and Bianca Jagger. And my beauty icons are Christy Turlington and Iman. They are beautiful and through their actions, their beauty transcends every project they take on. I love powerful women that embrace their femininity.
From your Instagram diary, it would appear that you have some furry friends.
I am a pet lover. Our dog, Lennon, is truly a rainbow in my life. I am very conscious to not use products that are tested on animals. I am cutting down my red meat consumption as well, but I must admit, I love my steak.
What part of your body do you love the most?
I believe in “allure”—the way one carries him or herself says a lot.
