From Grasse to Dubai: A Cross-Cultural Journey
Stéphane Bengana represents a unique bridge between traditional French perfumery and the rich olfactory heritage of the Middle East. Born in Clermont-Ferrand, his journey began with a strong academic foundation at ISIPCA in Versailles, where he earned both a degree in chemistry and a specialized diploma in perfumery.
His early career in Paris at Haarmann & Reimer laid the groundwork for his expertise, but it was his move to Grasse that truly shaped his artistry. As a trainee perfumer at Payan Bertrand, located in the heart of the perfume capital, Bengana developed a deep appreciation for natural raw materials and classical French composition techniques.
A defining moment in his career came with his move to Dubai, where he spent nine years at CPL Aromas, eventually rising to the position of Perfumery Director. Immersing himself in Middle Eastern culture transformed his creative vision. As Bengana himself expressed, he developed a profound connection to Arabian perfumery, embracing its richness and depth.
Today, he works at Symrise, one of the world’s leading fragrance houses, bringing over two decades of experience into every creation. His perfectionist approach and passion for scent development are reflected in collaborations with both established brands and niche houses such as Fragrance Du Bois.
Royal Commissions and Gourmand Mastery
Bengana’s portfolio demonstrates remarkable versatility, ranging from royal commissions to modern gourmand creations. One of his most prestigious projects was Adamas, created in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. Developed in collaboration with perfumer Ange Stavrevska, the fragrance drew inspiration from classic coronation-era scents and incorporated ingredients sourced from Commonwealth countries.
His expertise in gourmand perfumery reached new heights with Minuit et Demi, created in 2020 in collaboration with influencer Demi Rawling for Fragrance Du Bois. This composition opens with vibrant cardamom and pimento, evolves into a rich heart of caramel and coffee, and settles into a warm base of cashmeran, musk, and bourbon tobacco.
The success of Minuit et Demi, which was shortlisted for a Fragrance Foundation Award in the UK, highlights Bengana’s ability to create scents that resonate with modern audiences while maintaining technical excellence. Its strong performance and longevity reflect his mastery of balance and projection.
Other notable works include Nubes for Santa Eulalia and Hero for Symrise, each showcasing his ability to adapt his style to different brand identities while maintaining his signature focus on natural ingredients and cultural authenticity.
Stéphane Bengana’s legacy continues to grow as he explores new collaborations, honoring both his French heritage and his deep appreciation for Arabian perfumery traditions.
