KHAMSA features popular models who have redefined the industry.
The fashion industry, often celebrated for its inclusivity and openness, still grapples with narrow and restrictive beauty standards. Despite the steady but slow evolution towards change, these standards continue to exert pressure on models to fit a faux ideal rather than embrace their true selves. In the face of this daunting reality, a beacon of hope and change has emerged: Ameni Esseibi, a Dubai-based model of Tunisian descent, who has become the Arab world’s first plus-size model.
Ameni’s journey into the modelling world began at the tender age of 18. She was educated in France and later pursued a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design from the American University in the Emirates (UAE). She experienced first-hand the diverse beauty standards across these regions while trying to carve out her niche in the industry. Her passion for modelling was ignited in the summer of 2017 in Tunisia, where she interned for Dior’s PR department and worked for jewellery designer Nadine Kanso. These experiences, coupled with her love for makeup, skincare, and fashion, solidified her desire to pursue a career in modelling.
Upon her return to Dubai in September 2017, Ameni faced numerous challenges as she sought to establish herself in the modelling scene. Ameni followed her passion and persisted in connecting with photographers on social media, posting pictures on Instagram, and tagged agencies, ultimately signing with local modelling agencies such as Ecommerce, Wilhelmina Dubai, Bareface, and MA Models.
Ameni’s persistence and resilience paid off, earning her career a much-deserving boost. She has served as an ambassador for Arab Fashion Week and the Arab Fashion Council and has been featured in numerous Jean Paul Gaultier campaigns in Ischia and Paris, recently making history as the brand’s First Middle East representative. Overall, her career has become a platform for inspiring confidence in women worldwide, particularly within the Middle East’s curvy community.
“Jean Paul Gaultier is more than just a brand to me; it feels like family. Its identity embodies everything I stand for rebellion, strength, boldness, fearlessness, sensuality, and a touch of scandal, I am deeply honoured to make history as their first Arab ambassador in the region.”
– Ameni Esseibi
Drawing inspiration from her family, friends, and followers, Ameni is a staunch advocate for body positivity. She believes in the importance of not judging others based on appearances and avoiding assumptions and criticism, as everyone’s battles are unseen.
As Ameni continues to achieve and redefine industry standards, she also dedicates herself to advocating for women in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly those struggling with PCOS and dealing with bullying. Through her social media presence, she continues to inspire and support others, proving that real beauty lies in embracing one’s true self.
She is redefining the industry standards. And we are all for it.
