How a young woman transformed a simple opportunity into a movement for respect, empathy, and global cultural harmony.
Introduction: When Destiny Chooses You
Some people chase the spotlight. Others are gently guided toward it without realizing they were meant to stand there all along.
Emtiaz Youssif-Benford is a remarkable example of the latter—a woman whose journey into modeling, pageantry, and humanitarian service did not begin with ambition, but with the belief of the people around her.
From a young age, her presence captivated those who met her. Strangers and friends alike would tell her, “You should be a model.” She didn’t pursue the idea at first, but life has a way of nudging people toward their purpose. One simple decision—a casting call she attended on a whim—opened a door that would change her life forever.
Today, Emtiaz stands as a proud Lebanese-American figure poised to represent Lebanon as Ms. Lebanon Universe International 2026, driven not only by beauty, but by a profound mission rooted in unity, cultural respect, and compassion.
A Humble Beginning: Stepping Into the Spotlight
Emtiaz’s career began in one of the most grounded ways possible—promotional modeling. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real. It taught her discipline, communication, public presence, and the essentials of representing a brand.
From Curiosity to Career
One day, she decided to take a chance and attend a professional model casting call. She expected nothing, but she walked out casted—an affirmation that the world had already seen something in her she was just beginning to recognize in herself.
That moment transformed curiosity into courage, and courage into a career.
Four years later, she now moves with the confidence of a woman who knows she was meant to be here all along.
The Influence of Others: A Career Shaped by Encouragement
Unlike many aspiring models who enter the field with childhood dreams of fame, Emtiaz’s journey began from a very different place: the voices of others who believed in her before she believed in herself.
“People have always encouraged me to be a model,” she shares. “Their belief is what inspired me to finally give it a try.”
This influence would become a defining theme of her story.
Where many build careers alone, she built hers on a foundation of collective support—proving how powerful it is when people uplift one another.
More Than Beauty: Her Mission to Bridge Worlds
Emtiaz’s purpose extends far beyond modeling or pageants. She is on a mission to promote unity—a unity that embraces differences rather than erases them.
A Vision Rooted in Humanity
Growing up between two very different worlds—America and Lebanon—she developed a rare cultural sensitivity. She learned to understand differences not as barriers, but as expressions of identity.
Her message is simple and powerful:
“Unity isn’t about sameness; it’s about respect.”
She has seen firsthand that kindness exists everywhere—
in the food people share,
in the music that moves communities,
in the faith that guides them.
Her dream is to help the world see these shared rhythms of humanity.
Her Advocacy: Empathy Over Judgment
In a time when global tensions often highlight division, Emtiaz stands firm in her belief that diversity is not something to fear—it is something to celebrate.
Her advocacy is not political; it is human.
Her work aims to inspire people to appreciate cultural differences and find common ground through compassion.
A Personality That Lights Up the Room
Ask anyone who meets her, and they will tell you:
Emtiaz is unforgettable.
Her bubbly, warm personality sets her apart in an industry where confidence can sometimes overshadow kindness. She radiates a natural charm that makes every room feel lighter and every interaction feel meaningful.
This vibrance is her signature.
It makes her approachable, relatable—and undeniably unique.
“People often tell me my personality is what makes me stand out,” she smiles, and it’s easy to believe.
Success: A Ladder That Never Ends
For Emtiaz, success is not a moment—it is a mindset.
She believes true success lies in achieving one’s goals, but also in constantly setting new ones.
“You should never stop having goals,” she says. “Success is ongoing.”
This perspective is what drives her work ethic. She knows that in the entertainment and fashion industry, hard work is not optional; it is the foundation of growth. And because she loves the work itself, the journey motivates her more than the destination.
How She Chooses Her Projects: Discipline Meets Vision
In a world where opportunities come in waves, Emtiaz is strategic. She organizes her projects based on priority and deadlines, maintaining a balance that keeps her both productive and sane.
This disciplined mindset allows her to take on multiple roles—model, humanitarian, public representative—without losing her center.
A Defining Milestone: A Warrior Beyond the Runway
One of the most striking aspects of her story is a milestone few can imagine:
She has been to war with the U.S. Army.
This experience forged a strength deeper than any runway or stage could demand. It shaped her understanding of peace, humanity, leadership, and responsibility.
War changes people, but for Emtiaz, it cultivated resilience, gratitude, and a fierce dedication to making the world kinder and more united.
Her poise comes not only from beauty and training, but from surviving adversity most will never encounter.
Looking Forward: A Future Fueled by Purpose
As she prepares to represent Lebanon on an international stage, Emtiaz’s vision is crystal clear. Her future is rooted in service, cultural influence, and global representation.
Her Upcoming Projects
- Returning to Lebanon as Ms. Lebanon Universe International 2026
- Bringing charitable work to Lebanese communities
- Working internationally across major fashion weeks
- Building a global platform centered on unity and compassion
- Expanding her humanitarian initiatives both in the U.S. and abroad
- Inspiring younger generations through leadership grounded in kindness
She dreams of giving back to her homeland, sharing love, contributions, and opportunities with people who deserve support, visibility, and hope.
“The possibilities are honestly endless,” she says—and she means it.
A Woman of Culture, Courage & Kindness
Emtiaz Youssif-Benford is more than a model, more than a pageant queen, and more than a voice of cultural unity.
She is the embodiment of a modern woman who leads with warmth, acts with intention, and dares to dream beyond borders.
Her story is a testament to:
- The power of encouragement
- The strength of resilience
- The beauty of cultural diversity
- The importance of compassion
- And the impact one woman can have by simply showing up as herself
As she continues her rise, one thing is clear:
She is not just representing a country—
she is representing a message.
A message the world needs now more than ever.
Styling & HMU: Positively You™Empiwerment Studio
Photo Credit: BTA Productions™