Vogue Arabia’s very first issue for 2024 spotlights rising Moroccan model Rania Benchegra. Read on to discover the fashion star’s journey in the world of fashion and beyond.
Photo: Txema Yeste
The Spring 2024 season was filled with exciting shows and thrilling debuts, but none generated as much anticipation as Vogue World: London. On September 14, 2023, the prestigious Theatre Royal Drury Lane hosted the highly awaited second annual event, deemed London’s answer to the Met Gala. The star-studded affair witnessed the convergence of fashion and film royalty on the red carpet. The evening was elevated with electrifying shows from Stormzy and FKA Twigs, while unexpected appearances from Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Linda Evangelista added a super-powered touch to an unforgettable finale. It was there that Vogue Open Casting finalist Rania Benchegra captivated the audience as she confidently sashayed her way into the spotlight, alongside the performance of legendary singer Annie Lennox.
Photo: Txema Yeste
“Open Casting was a great experience,” remarks an elated Benchegra. “It opened the doors for me to start working with some of the most amazing people in the fashion industry. As a model, it’s important to build your network with photographers, stylists, and creative directors to constantly develop and grow.” Introduced in May last year, the competition is a worldwide modeling initiative with the goal of unveiling fresh faces that truly embody global diversity. With more than 60 000 submissions, the Moroccan beauty was one of eight models chosen by a judging committee composed of casting directors Piergiorgio del Moro and Samuel Ellis Scheinman, Instagram’s director of fashion partnerships Eva Chen, and Vogue editors from around the world. World-renowned fashion photographer Charlotte Wales photographed Benchegra alongside the other winners for their editorial debut in the October 2023 issue of American Vogue.
Photo: Txema Yeste
Born and raised in the Medina district of Marrakech, Benchegra’s Arab heritage runs deep. She recalls an easygoing childhood that was “simple and beautiful.” Her interest in fashion was ignited at the age of five, in the form of a photoshoot in Marrakech for a French brand. “My dad thought it would be a great experience. Little did he know that it would define my future.”
Rania Benchegra with her mother
As a high schooler, Benchegra was shopping at the mall when she was spotted by an Elite Model Look scout, who convinced her to take part in the agency’s local event. Her parents’ supportive and understanding stance played a big role in setting her on the road to success. “My community was proud of me for representing Morocco and that instilled a sense of responsibility in me that I felt like I needed to live up to.”
Rania with her family for Eid in Morocco
She continued with her studies, attending university, learning six languages (Arabic, English, Berber, French, Portuguese, and Italian), and completing a diploma in film. “I’ve always loved cinema. Acting was something I’ve kept an eye on and would love to explore. If the right opportunity presents itself anywhere in the world, I would jump at it.”
Photo: Txema Yeste
Benchegra made her mark these past Spring/Summer 2023 fashion weeks, striding down some of the industry’s most prestigious runways. The rising star’s flawless olive complexion, delicate features, and glossy raven mane perfectly complement her striking walk. She credits her father for this impressive skill, as he would make her practice with a book precariously balanced on her head. “Every opportunity to walk in a fashion show feels like a dream,” she nods. She was able to fulfill one of her lifelong ambitions with an appearance on the recent Louis Vuitton runway in Hong Kong, showcasing Pharrell William’s second collection for the brand, as well as both the Schiaparelli and Versace shows. “The big names were always a fantasy for me, and I was lucky enough to walk these this year. Some other bucket list fashion shows would be Chanel and Bottega Veneta.”
Walking the runway for Versace, Schiaparelli and Louis Vuitton
Off the runway, Benchegra is happiest when she’s in the water. An avid surfer, the coastlines of Costa Rica make her heart sing and have even influenced her personal taste on dry land. “Ever since I started surfing, my style and energy have evolved a lot. Something about the ocean and the meditation of surfing have grounded me, which I think translates to a ‘chill’ style and mood most of the time. I prefer relaxed fits and casual looks.” She’s also a passionate philanthropist set on leveraging her exposure for the greater good by taking on the role of ambassador for Lead Edu. “It’s a non-profit organization that creates a holistic approach to leadership development by way of education, sports training, nutrition, healthcare, and life skills,” she says. “They provide services and classes to the local community of talented boys and girls ages eight to 18. I’m heavily involved in the development of this program as I have promised myself that as I grow in this business, I will give back to my community and remember where I came from.”
Photo: Txema Yeste
Benchegra is dedicated to serving as a role model for Arab women, particularly encouraging young individuals from Morocco to smash stereotypes and overcome hurdles to pursue their own ambitious dreams, just as she did. “There are a lot of inspiring people and creatives from our part of the world, and I think that if people started to work more collaboratively and really focus on building and growing together, we could create something really powerful and beautiful.”
Photo: Txema Yeste
Photo: Txema Yeste
Photo: Txema Yeste
Photo: Txema Yeste
Style: Amine Jreissati
Makeup: Jenneke Croubels
Hair: Ruben Marmol
Art direction: Virginia Sancho
1st photo assistant: Daniel Gallar
Digital photo sssistant: Jessica Rodriguez
2nd photo assistant: Alejandro Perales
Style assistant: Jordi Ejarque Torres
Special thank you: Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona
