Jessica Kahawaty – The Lebanese Australian Beauty Queen, Entrepreneur, and Humanitarian Icon
Jessica Kahawaty is a name that effortlessly bridges the worlds of fashion, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. Born in Sydney, Australia, on 12 September 1988, Jessica Michelle Kahawaty has Lebanese roots that deeply influence her identity and work ethic. At 37 years old, she stands as one of the most recognisable Middle Eastern-Australian public figures — an international model, beauty pageant titleholder, entrepreneur, television host, and humanitarian.
Her journey from the catwalks of global fashion to humanitarian missions for the United Nations and UNICEF showcases her as much more than a beauty queen — she is a symbol of intellect, compassion, and entrepreneurial drive.
Early Life and Lebanese-Australian Heritage
Jessica Kahawaty was born and raised in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, to Lebanese parents Rita and John Kahawaty. She grew up in a culturally rich household where Australian upbringing met Lebanese values. Her younger brother, Julien Kahawaty, often features in her family-centred posts and business ventures.
Her early education at Tangara School for Girls provided a strong academic base, and her fascination with culture, law, and human rights shaped her educational path. Jessica later attended the University of Technology Sydney, earning two degrees — a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with majors in Accounting and Finance. This rare combination of intellect and elegance would later become a hallmark of her personal brand.
Pageant Success: From Sydney to the World Stage
Jessica’s rise to fame began in the world of pageantry, where she represented both her heritage and her homeland. She first earned the title of Miss Lebanon Australia 2007, followed by Miss Lebanon Emigrant 2008 and Miss Lebanon International 2008. These early victories prepared her for global recognition.
In 2012, Jessica was crowned Miss World Australia, giving her the opportunity to represent Australia at the Miss World 2012 pageant in Ordos City, Inner Mongolia, China. Among more than a hundred contestants, she stood out with her grace, intelligence, and humanitarian vision, finishing as Second Runner-Up. This achievement catapulted her into international fame and established her as one of Australia’s most successful beauty queens.
Transition into Modelling and Television
Following her pageant triumph, Jessica Kahawaty transitioned smoothly into the world of fashion and media. Her poise and sophistication made her a favourite of major luxury brands. She has worked with world-renowned fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior Beauty, Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, Tom Ford, Breitling, Tiffany & Co., and Wella.
Jessica’s ability to combine glamour with professionalism has made her an ambassador and muse for some of the most respected brands in the industry. Her campaigns have spanned continents, from the Middle East to Europe, showcasing her as a global fashion figure.
In 2016, she further expanded her career by becoming the Host of Project Runway Middle East, which aired on MBC 4. The show offered her the platform to merge her passion for fashion with her charisma on screen, strengthening her presence across Arab media.
Entrepreneurial Vision: Mama Rita and Kahawaty Jewels
Jessica’s entrepreneurial journey began in September 2020 when she founded Mama Rita, a Dubai-based food brand co-created with her mother, Rita Kahawaty. The concept was inspired by their shared love for Lebanese home-cooked food and the warmth of family meals. Mama Rita quickly became a household name in Dubai, offering Arabic and international dishes with a homely touch. Their slogan — “Feeding the world as a mother would” — captures the brand’s essence of care and authenticity.
In May 2025, Jessica co-founded Kahawaty Jewels, where she serves as Creative Director. This luxury jewellery line reflects her refined aesthetic, combining modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Both ventures show how Jessica has evolved from a model into a powerful businesswoman who leads with creativity and empathy.
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work
Beyond beauty and business, Jessica Kahawaty is a passionate humanitarian. With a background in human rights law, she has dedicated much of her platform to raising awareness about global issues. Since December 2018, she has served as the Founder of the Leadership Circle for UNICEF in the Gulf region. Her role includes fostering partnerships, facilitating fundraising opportunities, and amplifying initiatives for children’s rights.
Jessica’s humanitarian work has taken her across borders. Between 2017 and 2019, she joined major field missions with the United Nations:
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In Jordan, she visited the Zaatari Refugee Camp, the world’s largest Syrian refugee settlement, as part of the Louis Vuitton x UNICEF “Make a Promise” campaign.
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In Bangladesh, she worked with the UNHCR to raise awareness for the Rohingya refugee crisis in Cox’s Bazar.
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In New York, she addressed the United Nations Headquarters, advocating for displaced children and access to education.
Her efforts have earned her immense respect as a role model who uses fame for meaningful change.
Awards and Recognition
Jessica’s influence has been widely recognised through various honours and achievements. Among them is the Young Achiever Award, presented by the Australian and Lebanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry in March 2013. This recognition celebrated her role in representing Australia internationally while promoting Lebanese culture and humanitarian causes.
Her achievements have also been acknowledged by fashion and lifestyle publications across the Arab world, including features in Vogue Arabia, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle Middle East.
Social Media and Public Presence
Jessica Kahawaty maintains a strong online presence with over 1.6 million followers on Instagram (@jessicakahawaty). Her profile describes her as:
Entrepreneur. Model. Human Rights Law Grad. Founder/CEO @mamarita Founder/Creative Director @kahawatyjewels
Her social media reflects her diverse identity — elegant fashion moments, philanthropic initiatives, and snapshots of her personal life. Recently, she celebrated her birthday at Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room in Sydney, marking her first celebration in Australia after thirteen years in Dubai. This event symbolised her enduring connection to both her homelands.
Education and Personal Life
Jessica Kahawaty is both intellectually and creatively accomplished. Holding degrees in Law and Business, she embodies the modern woman who balances beauty with substance.
Despite her global fame, Jessica has managed to keep her personal life private. As of 2025, she is unmarried and focuses her energy on her humanitarian projects, brand expansions, and creative endeavours. Her commitment to authenticity and ethics continues to define her journey.
FAQs
Q1. How old is Jessica Kahawaty?
Jessica Kahawaty was born on 12 September 1988 in Sydney, Australia. She is 37 years old as of 2025.
Q2. Who are Jessica Kahawaty’s parents?
Her parents are Rita Kahawaty and John Kahawaty. Jessica often credits her mother as her biggest inspiration and co-founder of their food brand, Mama Rita.
Q3. Does Jessica Kahawaty have any siblings?
Yes, she has a younger brother named Julien Kahawaty, who occasionally appears in her social media and professional ventures.
Q4. What is Jessica Kahawaty’s height?
Jessica stands 1.75 metres (5 feet 9 inches) tall.
Q5. What is Jessica Kahawaty’s nationality?
She holds Australian nationality and is of Lebanese descent, often describing herself as proudly Lebanese-Australian.
Jessica Kahawaty: A Legacy of Grace, Intelligence, and Impact
Jessica Kahawaty’s story is one of evolution — from a young Lebanese-Australian girl with dreams of helping others, to an international model, and now a dynamic entrepreneur and humanitarian. Her life exemplifies the modern global citizen: grounded in culture, driven by intellect, and guided by compassion.
Through Mama Rita, Kahawaty Jewels, and her advocacy for UNICEF, she continues to prove that true beauty shines brightest through purpose. Jessica Kahawaty stands as a remarkable example of how one woman can gracefully unite fashion, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship — while inspiring millions around the world.
