Nehmat Aoun Just Gave a Masterclass in Power & Patriotism

Lebanon's First Lady stuns at the UN and on a legendary Vogue cover, all while championing Lebanese designers and women's rights

Move over, world leaders; there's a new style and substance icon in town! Lebanon's First Lady, Nehmat Aoun, is dominating the news cycle, and for all the right reasons.

Fresh from a powerful speech at the United Nations General Assembly, she's now gracing a stunning Vogue cover, and the details are a beautiful love letter to her homeland.

Vogue Arabia October 2025

An All-Lebanese Triumph

Forget flying in international glam squads! This entire Vogue shoot was a celebration of Lebanese talent. The iconic First Lady was styled solely in creations by Lebanese designers like Elie Saab and Maison Rabih Kayrouz. The photographer, the stylist—the entire team was Lebanese.

The emotional homecoming shoot took her back to her old childhood neighbourhood, where she was reportedly met with applause and open arms.

Photo: Sebastian Böttcher

A Message of Resilience and Rights

In a deeply personal interview, Aoun got real about the struggles faced by so many in Lebanon. “Like so many Lebanese, I have experienced loss – losing my home, losing the people I love... Yet, surrender was never an option,” she shared.

But she's not just reflecting on the past. As president of the National Commission of Lebanese Women, she's on a mission. She pointed out that while Lebanon was a pioneer in granting women the vote in 1952, today, "women remain underrepresented in leadership." Her goals are clear: combat gender-based violence and ensure women's voices are heard in politics and the economy.

Photography: Abigail Tulenko

But Wait, There's More Global Glamour!

This Vogue issue is absolutely packed with iconic women:

Moroccan superstar Manal Benchlikha is back with a new song, Carton Rouge, and opens up about motherhood.

Manal Photography: Alienor Gasperi. Styling: Dabby Naval

Kuwaiti artist Alymamah Rashed is making history as the latest Arab artist to join Dior’s Lady Art project.

Photo: Alymamah Rashed for Dior

Egyptian actress Shaima Saif is set to star in her first lead role in an upcoming comedy.

From the streets of Marrakesh to a historic hall in Norfolk, this issue is a global celebration of culture, art, and the powerful women shaping our world. Consider our interest officially piqued.

Shaima Saif Photography: Sandra Chidiac. Styling: Mohammad Hazem Rezq  

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