Model Imaan Hammam and Soccer Star Achraf Hakimi Share Spotlight in Vogue Feature

How did you start modeling? Imaan Hammam answers this question asked by Achraf Hakimi in these terms: "I was spotted at 13 in Amsterdam, where I grew up. It was a surreal experience, because I never would have imagined that I could become a model. I had my first chance by walking in the Jean-Paul Gaultier couture show, but everything really changed when I did the first part of Givenchy at 16. That’s when I realized that modeling could become a real career for me."

Hammam in turn asks him when he realized he wanted to become a professional footballer. "I’ve always had a deep passion for football. My mother tried to introduce me to swimming, but my heart was turned towards football. From the moment I took a ball, I knew that was my dream. Since then, I’ve dedicated my life to pursuing that dream, and here I am living it," the PSG star tells him. The Dutch model of Moroccan origin continues: "What is the best and worst aspect of being famous?" The Atlas Lion replies: "I think the worst is that I don’t have the intimacy I would like to have. The best is that I can communicate with a lot of people."

To the same question, Imaan says that the most beautiful thing about it is traveling the world and meeting incredible people. "I also love the creativity of fashion: working with talented designers and photographers is very inspiring. The worst is probably being away from my family for long periods. It’s hard not to miss your country when you’re constantly on the move," adds the one who had to face challenges from the beginning of her career. "It hasn’t always been easy. When I started, there weren’t many women who looked like me on the runways or in campaigns. But I’ve always been proud of my identity and my origins, and I wanted to represent girls who might not recognize themselves in traditional fashion. I think the industry has come a long way in terms of accepting diversity, but there’s still a lot to be done," she confides.

Hakimi talks about his greatest accomplishment as an athlete: "Beyond titles and personal achievements, my greatest success was telling my parents they no longer needed to work. That moment meant everything to me: showing them that their sacrifices had borne fruit and that I could support them while pursuing my passion. That’s my greatest success." The two celebrities have a passion in common: fashion, and a deep love for their Moroccan roots. "My Moroccan and Egyptian roots are an integral part of my personality," Imaan asserts. "They influence my style, my values and even the way I behave. I love to celebrate my culture, whether through my love of traditional patterns, music or simply by staying connected to my family’s values. I also think my heritage gives me a unique perspective in this industry, and I’m very proud to represent it."

Hakimi confides: "Morocco has always been a part of me, no matter where I’ve lived. It’s my home, my roots and the country of my parents." He also talks about the link between sport and fashion: "The two sectors value hard work, discipline and self-expression. Athletes and models often inspire each other: we constantly see collaborations between sportswear brands and haute couture." Imaan adds: "Today, sport and fashion are more linked than ever. Sport connects people and transcends borders, and fashion is part of that connection. Athletes influence trends, and fashion draws inspiration from the dynamism of sport. The two industries therefore celebrate individuality and creativity, and I think they complement each other perfectly."

The two celebrities are proud to be on the cover of the latest issue of Vogue entitled Headliners and do not hide their family attachment. "This cover is special to me, not only because I’m honored to be a part of it, but also because I’m sharing it with you (Achraf Hakimi)! It powerfully represents our culture and heritage. That said, my parents are my greatest source of inspiration. Their sacrifices and resilience have shaped the person I am today, and to me, they will always be the true headliners of my life." Achraf says that his mother is his greatest source of inspiration, as her strength and grace are unparalleled. "I’m also inspired by Iman and the other Arabs who have come before us," he adds.