Fatima Zahra, Roses, and the Power of Local Beauty in Kalaat M’Gouna

In the rose capital of Morocco, one queen now wears the crown of petals and pride.

Fez – In the heart of the Dades Valley, where the scent of Damask roses lingers like a love letter from the land itself, something beautiful bloomed this spring, and it wasn’t just the flowers.

Fatima Zahra Bramaki was crowned the new Rose Queen of Kalaat M’Gouna during the 60th edition of the International Festival of the Damask Rose.

But make no mistake, this isn’t just a pageant; it’s a celebration of identity, tradition, and the women who make Morocco’s “rose economy” thrive.

This year’s competition wasn’t about who had the most flawless skin or the sparkliest smile.

Contestants were judged not only on appearance but also on cultural knowledge, local traditions, and their ability to represent the rose capital with elegance and authenticity.

Fatima Zahra impressed the jury with her poise, knowledge of rose farming and distillation, and deep connection to the heritage of her town.

Right behind her was Hafida Amakhchoun, who radiated quiet confidence and earned the admiration of both the audience and the panel.

Her performance served as a reminder that Moroccan beauty is layered, rooted in strength, tradition, and self-respect.

According to the organizers, the title of Rose Queen is symbolic. It honors the role rural women play in preserving this fragrant legacy: planting, harvesting, distilling, and even marketing rose products that are both eco-friendly and internationally respected.

These women aren’t background figures. They are the backbone of a centuries-old craft that blends environmental sustainability with economic potential.

Fatima Zahra will now serve as an ambassador for the Moroccan Damask rose throughout the year, representing it at national and international exhibitions.

It’s a big role, but if her presence at the festival is anything to go by, she’s more than up for the task.

She brings with her not only beauty and elegance but also an understanding of how heritage can thrive in a modern world.

The 60th edition of the festival itself was vibrant, packed with performances, panels, artisan showcases, and workshops on how to enhance the value of rose-based products.

But it was the women, especially the contestants, who stole the spotlight. In their stories, in their pride, and in their grace, they reminded us that beauty rooted in purpose speaks louder than any perfume.

And every spring, as roses bloom in Kalaat M’Gouna, the world gets a whiff of Morocco’s soft power, carried by its women.