DECEMBER 2011
When we started to put together the December issue it became quickly apparent there was no way to stem the outpouring of love, artistic expression and reminiscing of good times experienced in the UAE. So we succumbed totally and decided to dedicate the the whole magazine to the UAE’s 40th birthday. We dedicated Tempo’s Heart and Soul Bazaars in the last two months to the UAE’s national day, we worked with Abu Dhabi TV on mini vignettes by members of the community entitled “I LOVE UAE,” we invited artists to communicate their dedications on canvas and we talked to Emiratis and expatriates about their thoughts and their dreams. Interestingly, the overriding theme in these chats and activities was about how the UAE had managed to host a multi-national population, to nurture a mosaic of cultures and communities, and to provide a sense of harmony and belonging to all. We should look back at the past year in world history as a time of challenge and change and embrace the new year with hope, and with the very qualities that have made the UAE so loved by its people. Happy Birthday UAE, and Happy New Year to all.
Sana Bagersh Managing Editor
bagersh@tempoplanet.com
letters to the editor uspace art dedication dedication online poem dedication bu tinah island citybites happy birthday uae people calendar
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ADDRESS To reach editorial at Abu Dhabi Tempo email: editorial@tempoplanet. com. If you need to find out where you can pick up your copy call: 02 667 3349 or check out the list of Tempo distribution points on our website. NOTE TO ADVERTISERS Advertisers can request brand tagging with all advertisements. To reach advertising call 02 667 3349 or email: advertising@tempoplanet.com.
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blueprint time capsule game hedz | uae diversity doc in the house | dedication to nation
just handcrafted | mum unlimited articulate | mini minx yank in the sandland | just a thought wanted: emirati entrepreneurs media column | tamakkan horoscope
DISCLAIMER Tempo is a publication of BrandMoxie. Although Tempo Magazine does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors, mistakes and inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the publisher.
MANAGING EDITOR Sana Bagersh FEATURES EDITOR Alma Kadragic EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sharon Carvalho MAGAZINE DESIGN Mark De Castro MARKETING COORDINATOR Manjul Abhishek Laskar Laipubam DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Melaku Muluneh EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Angeli Castillo Dave Solomon Neena Rai Preethi Janice D’Sa Sara Taher Ian Mason Noura Abdullah Al Noaimi
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Blakniss Manar Al Hinai Randy Parker Sarah Widdup Ahmed Samir Justin Thomas Rohith Bhat
Dear Ed, It’s great how Tempo got amateur film makers an opportunity. I can’t wait to see the “I Love UAE” videos on Abu Dhabi TV on national day. Looking forward to more cool activities for the community - Sam R
Dear Tempo, Thanks for the “Gmail” tip in your Bottom Line column. I was horrified when I checked the link at the bottom of my gmail email page and saw other people were accessing my account. I couldn’t change the password fast enough - Osman Saeed
Dear Tempo, I thought your November issue was outstanding. The story on Mohammed Otaiba of Imagenation, the Cat Superheros, the Emirati film makers, the youth orchestra. More features, we want more! - Nitta S. Awesome! Abu Dhabi Anime Club (J-AMFM) is now featured in Abu Dhabi Tempo Magazine. Please go get a copy! Thanks Tempo for giving us the opportunity - Abigail Kerr
Was really fun! :) Will you be hosting more like that? - Jose Tuaño Well done Tempo - it was awesome. Love my new colourful throw! - Hana Makki
We came in late but it was still awesome. Got lots of books! Fantabulous! Great job Tempo! More to come! - Bearose Karmel Velarde
QUESTION
YAY! I’m in this month’s @ AbuDhabiTempo magazine along with a GREAT group from the “I love UAE” video competition. So exciting! - Sally Abdel Razak
RESULTS OF LAST MONTH’S VOTE:
What was your favourite film series of the year? 1) Fast and Furious Series 2) Twilight Saga 3) Harry Potter Series 4) Transformers 5) X-Men
Had a blast at Tempo’s Bazaar. Great job, Tempo! Love my new Ray Bans that I purchased for a fraction of the real price! Can’t wait for next month. See ya there! - Yasser Bagersh
Q: Who would you most like to see perform in the UAE?
72% 17% 11%
SAID YES, I WANT TO SEE ADELE PERFORM Go to tempoplanet to vote
SAID YES, I WANT TO SEE LADY GAGA PERFORM
SAID YES, I WANT TO SEE U2 PERFORM
0%
SAID YES, I WANT TO SEE PITBULL PERFORM
THE TOTALLY CLUELESS PERSON’S GUIDE:
MOVING TO THE UAE
By Rohith Bhat
ABU DHABI MALL PRESENTS THE “ABU DHABI MALL WINTER CHARITY FAIR” IN AID OF MÉDECINS SANS FRONTIÈRES (MSF) Friday 9th December 2011 | from 11am to 9pm
Visit the Winter Charity Fair at Abu Dhabi Mall and help contribute to the humanitarian efforts of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). All proceeds from table rentals will be donated to the MSF to help them along with their worthy cause.
Well it all started out simple enough: Dad got transferred to the U.A.E. and the rest of the family had to move along for the ride. So, like any typical geek I decided the best thing to do would be to research. I spent hours scouring though informative volumes of information like the Arabian Nights, Disney’s Aladdin, A Camels’ Tale and Lawrence of Arabia… Boy did that not pan out!! When I got to the U.A.E. it was nothing like anything I had read! Where were the flying carpets? Where were the belly dancers? Where were the camels and, more importantly, where were the Arabs? Finding them amongst the sea of Americans, Filipinos and Indians turned out to be as entertaining as a game of “Where’s Waldo” but after that, well, the disappointment set in. True, there was shopping and a sense of history and culture but there was a distinct lack of flying carpets that brought the whole thing down.
Come along with your family and friends to this exciting fair and purchase original handicrafts and souvenirs from the best artists and craftspeople. Stop by the MSF stall to buy secondhand books of various genres at bargain prices. MSF will be hosting a raffle with fantastic prizes to win brunches, hotels stays, thrilling marine & water park experiences, delicious cupcakes and lots more! For more information, contact: MSF at 02-6317645 or by email at info-msfuae@msf.org Abu Dhabi Mall at 02-6454858 or Email at customerservice@abudhabi-mall.com
On the plus side it was good to find out that there were the no taxes, something that got me a raise in allowance… But I couldn’t figure out why, and rather sad to find out, that my sister seemed to be way too happy about move. Why does that make me sad, you ask? Not because of the sadistic gene that most brothers carry that makes me say this, but rather the reason itself, the dreaded SHOPPING! Pack mules know, and brothers and boyfriends everywhere can sympathise, with my plight here! And it’s not just one or two places that she’ll visit once and then get sick, OH NO!!! There are hundreds places in this country for shopping! Not to mention sales every week or so! It makes my sister giddy, but it almost makes me want to jump in front of a car on the road! But considering the cars here, I may end up damaging a BMW and if that doesn’t get me a ticket, don’t know what will!! An afterthought, I just decided to have a shawarma…ahh, yes shawarma in the UAE… come for the cheap fuel cost, and stay for the shawarma!!
STUDENTS SHINE AT THE FESTIVAL OF THINKERS! Students from the British School Al Khubairat, posing with HH Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al Nahayan and the Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology, HE Tayeb Kamali. From left to right: HE Tayeb Kamali, Ahmed Hraiz, Mohammed Kamali, HH Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al Nahayan , Mohamed Al Darmaki, Karam Bukair, Nader Saab, Omar ElTemtamy and Khayouf
art dedication
Tempo invited local artists to a “paint-off” where they were supplied with canvas and paint and had to express their thoughts and ideas of life in the UAE, and the UAE’s 40th Anniversary, on the spot. Here we present 14 artworks painted by Emirati and expatriate artists.
The balancing act between tradition and innovation is something every country has to face, but for the UAE it is more so as it is a very young nation growing ever so fast and evolving rapidly. I hope my painting shows how successful Abu Dhabi copes with conflict, despite all the modernism and plastic scenery, natural and pure moments can still be found in the many side alleys. You just have to keep your eyes open.
Marek Mihok
Anna Kurkova
-Anna Eckert
It was said that the term camel from the Arabic جمل, ğml, derived from the triconsonantal root signifying “beauty”. I believe “beauty” perfectly describes not only the camel but also the United Arab Emirates. Therefore this drawing is a dedication to the UAE by both emphasizing and demonstrating its beauty. Happy 40th birthday UAE! -George Hung
My artwork was inspired by the vast changes that have taken place in the UAE over the past 40 years; it signifies how an ever-growing nation has managed to change the native land from desert to a country filled with the tallest of buildings and the most advanced of institutions while doing whatever it takes to maintain the ropes of tradition and culture and to conserve the intricate bonds between family and friends.
-Huda Al Shaikh
I wanted to take an impressionistic approach to describing a familiar landscape in Abu Dhabi that would then be overrun by intentional lines giving form, direction, and purpose; a clear setting derived from an ever shifting landscape of sand, buildings, and streets. -James Hunt
Unity and keeping the ancient culture alive enrich the nation and its future generation‌that to my eyes is the UAE. And I see it through their traditional boat, the dhow that moves towards a promising future with feet firmly on the ground and hands embracing the rich Arab culture and heritage. -Johanna Legaspi
Inspired by my positive interaction with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, I tried to show the tolerance, love and mutual understanding between different cultures in the painting. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque introduces a vision of tolerance rooted in the traditions of the golden Islamic era. Traditions based on respect and exchange of ideas for the enrichment of human life and history. Additionally, the mosque aims to serve as a platform to enhance culture and knowledge in Abu Dhabi and the surrounding region by organizing activities that seek to promote a culture of tolerance, love, rationality and mutual dialogue.
Shivangi Nanda
Kee Ryung Kim
-Ruchi Kansal
My painting is a metaphor for progress. The trail of the abaya and flag lead up to a woman which signifies how gracefully and beautifully the country has developed and bloomed. The abaya highlights that the country has preserved its culture amidst the urbanisation it is going through. Forty years since its birth, the country stands strong, and undoubtedly, it will see more years of growth and prosperity.
-Shanice DaCosta
My painting is a symbolic patchwork of the UAE’s past, present and future. Everything is connected through the horizon of the desert representing time: from Sheikh Zayed’s eyes through road sign, skyscraper, flag, and camel to the bridge… The traditional architecture drags on the dunes’ shape and the falcon, which look at the Emirati couple entering the Grand Mosque.
-Nirina Ralanto
The Abu Dhabi Flag pole. Fluttering over the Abu Dhabi corniche, this landmark, which at one point of time used to hold the record for being the highest free standing flagpole in the world, is a symbol of the free spirited nature of the people of this amazing country. I have spent hours on the corniche, mesmerized by the fluttering colours on this flag and always come back with a feeling of grandeur and spiritual calmness. This painting is a tribute to that flag, this great nation and its enlightened rulers.
-Soumyajit Choudhary
To me the issue of female empowerment is very important. Thus the theme of my painting shows the increasing role of the Emirati woman in the socio, economic and political decisions of the UAE. -Vivek Mukherjee
rami:
Thank you UAE for the warm memories of my childhood
dalal :
raed:
Ashat al imarat al mutahida !!
peace be upon you UAE
sylvie :
sana :
je - t - aime abou dhabi
scarlet :
mariam :
Happy Birthday UAE!!!!
darwin :
Fedaitik, ya imarat! Happy birthday UAE
marwan :
robert :
Happy birthday UAE
Congratulations on your 40th, UAE!
Happy 40th UAE!
Love this place, man. Happy national day. Peace and love, always :)
dan :
arwa d : congratulations... Peace and love stay strong and mark b : stay ahead
guest_7493 :
rash :
Congratulations UAE... may you have a long life and happiness for all your people
Harmony, peace and prosperity
anna :
love you abu dhabi
anna :
sadia :
I love UAE !!!
rania :
Congratulations UAE. No other place I want to be in :)
taha :
Mabrook, Ya Emirati
inas :
gaisha27 :
I love the summer , sea & Dubai!!!!
Happiness, glory and peace to all the people living in the UAE
UAE 40 Years… 40 Lines… by Bahareh Amidi 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
15. 16.
The land of not opportunities alone but of dreams coming true The place where I came to with no particular hope and I learned I had wings The desert in the middle of the oasis where oil is turned to real tangible things The crude realities of oil still present but the longing for change even more present Bridging the gap between east and west in real form. A lady in a bikini and a lady in an abaya despite all that they carry with in can sit side by side and be themselves It is not only about the Ferrari World it is about where the road and path can take you It is not only a place to pray. The Grand Mosque can restore faith in the abilities of mankind She is a lady at sunset and a gentleman at sunup It is not only the smell of oud it is the essence of the aroma The carriers of the Gulf only a reminder of the dreams carried to shore There are no beggars on the street, not only because of law, but because we are all here to work There is no stealing not only because of the consequences but because of the trust we have in ourselves The lights are lit after Ramadan and the lights are lit for Christmas honoring all religions and all faiths and beliefs It is not only the name of the schools and universities that give education its clout on this land, it is the education that gives its students opportunities in this land that give young minds clout in the world It is not the amount of sand in the desert that makes the caravan move from place to place, it is the caravan that makes the desert come to life with each step The salt in the sea is not salty because it is only there to be desalinated for use to make the desert green
Our National Day by Beena Sunny
Emirati National Day, a day For being happy and gay Filled with celebrations galore Reminders of history and folklore -years back our UAE was born Seven emirates were then divided and torn But on that day, a great leader, able and true United them under a flag of four colour Heralding in progress fast and meteoric hue Creating a nation unique and historic The hands that moulded UAE are stilled Their presence missed, the void never filled Yet comes, second December every year A day to remember without peer From their near and dear ones. Beena Sunny was an expatriate of Abu Dhabi for 13 years and remembers her years here with nostalgia. “This poem is an expression of thanks and dedication to the rulers of UAE,” she says.
17. The heritage that was lost in the desert wind is being brought back each day through nabati story telling and poem reciting 18. What might look like workers camps to some may indeed be viewed as havens to others, the others that are here to support a family and a clan through their daily sweat 19. This land has taught me to look inside for my answers and go to the well of light for my responses 20. I hope to see it 20 years from now and I wonder what 40 years from now will bring to life 21. Every child was born to a father and a mother, Sheik Zayed has been both to this land 22. He has made an other wise anonymous nation known to all who know where the sun rises 23. A person is said to be well respected when the elderly and the young respect them alike. Sheik Zayed was able to touch noses bending down to a child and looking up to an elder 24. Respect is not given but earned, to be called father of a nation by nationals is one thing but to be internationally respected is another 25. There are waves in the Gulf that bring news from the East and to the West and at times the oud of the East across the Water, this aroma has heritage behind it 26. Heritage of peoples whose life started on this land 7500 years ago but is now celebrated as the young nation of 40 years. Only roots can give way to such branches to grow 27. Branches can only seek light if allowed flight. The art of falconry is a national sport which gives inhabitants the wings they need to fly 28. The camels in the desert that die of eating empty bottles have a voice; the voice that says what will our children think when there are no more camels to greet the dinosaurs in the heavens 29. There are other nations whose names start with United. But the UAE is truly a nation that unites people 30. UAE is not a melting pot but more so a place for individuals to keep their ethnicity and wear their identity with pride may it be a purple robe or a white one 31. The smallness of the nation only adds to the flavor of its wondrous growth 32. The reality and importance of learning from those who have already traversed a land or a sea 33. The land of opportunity for those who are educated and wealthy but also the land of opportunity for those twilling the land to educate their children at home 34. The call to prayer five times a day starts at the Grand Mosque and echoes in every crack of every corner mosque and then resonates a light in those ready to hear the call 35. The call is the breath of the child out of womb under a tent and it is also the last breath of the camel dying of thirst while sitting at the oasis 36. Perhaps oasis is a great word for this land. 37. Indeed a land that was always dry but is now green with vegetation. Still around this land all you see is sand until your eye travels 38. At the oasis one can drink or one can cry 39. It is there the river of truth is in every speck of sand and in every drop of salt in the sea 40. For now time of sitting by the river called the UAE is over, it is time to step into the river and go with the flow. Bahareh Amidi is an American-Iranian poet based in Abu Dhabi. She recites poetry at artistic and creative events. See her poems at www.bahareh.com
BU TINAH ISLAND THE STORY OF A NATIONAL TREASURE By Noura Abdullah Al Noaimi
As children, we have all dreamt about the euphoria of visiting beautiful remote islands… but little did the people of the UAE know that we had one floating on own waters! Amongst the Gulf’s warm and saline waters is a small archipelago named Bu Tinah which is located 130km west of Abu Dhabi. Bu Tinah is home to numerous endangered species that inhabit this nirvana island. Within the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve is the territory that covers an estimate of 4,000 square meters, all closed to visitors, fishing and collection of turtle eggs, as the area is under enforced patrol watch to stay protected as a private natural reserve. In 2001, UNESCO recognized the island as being one of both the largest and richest Biosphere reserves found in the region. The island is actually a cluster of islands and shoals, all meeting at a very low sea level, reaching no higher than two or three meters above sea level. Due to the island’s affiliation with UNESCO, Bu Tinah immediately raised its level on the social network platform, and raising a flag that it is susceptible to harm if it is not protected. In March 2010, Bu Tinah Island was surprisingly announced as one of 28 global finalists in the contest “New 7 Wonders of Nature” when it was shortlisted by a substantial 447 natural sites around the world. On 11 November 2011, Bu Tinah was voted by 13 million people all around the world and it managed to reach the top 14 finalists in the global competition! Commenting on the 20-month long campaign, Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Secretary General of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) said: “It
is fitting that, as we approach the 40th anniversary of our beloved nation, that Bu Tinah has served to unite the residents of the UAE and beyond in appreciation of our nation’s natural heritage and its importance on the global stage.” Bu Tinah’s main territorial area has a sheltered lagoon opening its area leading to the south. It has a low energy environment allowing flowing mature mangrove to flourish. It also contains an estimate of 16 species of healthy coral reef habitats. Bu Tinah Island is home to the most threatened species of sea turtles in the world known as “The Hawksbill Turtle”that plays an important role in coral reef maintenance. Its shell is considered one of its most beautiful elements and is a coveted item in the fashion industry. Another species found at Bu Tinah is the Osprey, also known as the “sea hawk” and 75 percent of its breeding population is found in Abu Dhabi. In every territory lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, protected and appreciated. For the UAE, Bu Tinah represents a magnificent national treasure that adds value to the UAE; raising its profile in the world of nature and affirming its commitment to environmental conservation.
By Justin Thomas
Photo by Sheikha Al Tunaiji
HARD WALLS WHERE CHICKEN KIEV MEETS A BAHRAINI APPLE The Sheesha smoke is thick. Like mist rising over a primordial swamp, its movement is virtually imperceptible. This serene smoke-scape is a fragile thing; any illusion of solidity and permanence is shattered by energetic table staff delivering food, drinks and charcoal. Smoke swirls and dances in their wake, a visible reminder of the invisible world surrounding us. Unlike the mist from a swamp however, this smoke is aromatic; an airborne fruit salad with apple, grape, mint and lemon vying for olfactory preeminence. This fragrant smoker’s utopia at the heart of Marina Mall goes by the curious name of “Hard Walls”. Many of Abu Dhabi’s restaurants and cafes provide non-smoking sections, however in the absence of a significant physical barrier such “smoke-free” spaces are about as health promoting as a non-urinating section in a public swimming pool. Hard Walls however, makes a real effort, and the non-smoking section is located outside of the main restaurant. Yes - here it’s the non-smokers who are marginalised, and pushed to the fringes of the establishment. This less than perfect arrangement is however, far superior to simply separating smoking and non-smoking sections with writtensigns; as if free-floating smoke can read. I once saw a no smoking sign almost totally obscured by a thick cloud of illiterate cigar smoke that had defiantly drifted into the non-smoking section. The debate on passive smoking has rumbled on for a long time but the direction of travel is pretty obvious. It seems as though a global public-smoking ban is gradually creeping into place. However, one issue that needs to be urgently addressed pertains to children accompanying their parents to super smokey environments. Who would take their year-old child to a cigar bar? But children in sheesha cafes and restaurants seem to be fairly acceptable, common even. Perhaps it’s the pleasant smell of sheesha smoke that lulls some of us into a false sense of complacency? (Nothing that smells so good could be harmful, could it?) But the dangers of environmental tobacco smoke for children are clear and well publicised. The UK’s National Health Service suggest children regularly exposed to environmental tobacco smoke (sweet smelling or otherwise) are more prone to asthma, ear, nose and chest infections, and do less well cognitively, and are at greater risk of developing cancer and other serious illnesses as adults. During my visit to Hard Walls several of the passive smokers were indeed children. As these youngsters munched ketchup-drenched chicken nuggets, mum, dad, aunts, uncles and older siblings all puffed pipes and punctuated their conversation with perfumed clouds of smoke. One scene now indelibly etched in my mind was of a mother cradling a relative neonate in one arm while she dexterously maneuvered the sheesha pipe with her other. Another scene was of a container of red-hot charcoal being swung precariously close to the push chair of a sleeping tot! This brought to my mind Dickensian scenes of chimney sweeps, and gin-drinking pre-teen alcoholics. Surely these children passively imbibing the atmosphere of sheesha-serving establishments will become the images we look back on with a sense of “I can’t believe we lived like that!”.
Beyond the smoke, Hard Walls offers nominally Lebanese/Syrian cuisine, with an extensive menu spanning the globe… pretty much like the Lebanese diaspora itself. All the usual Levantine suspects are there; hummus, tabouleh, fatoush, kebabs. The menu also features the ubiquitous fodder of globalisation; burgers, and pizzas. However, there are also many unexpected international surprises. For example, my favourite dish at Hard Walls has to be chicken Kiev. This Kiev is absolutely magnificent – from presentation to flavour to aroma; a truly outstanding culinary experience. In fact this dish seems kind of out of place at Hard Walls, which has a relaxed beach-bar style decor and ambience. This chicken Kiev would be right at home in any of the world’s gastronomically sophisticated five star restaurants. However, in such establishments you probably couldn’t get a Bahraini apple flavoured sheesha for dessert.
By Priya Prince INGREDIENTS 2 Tbsps oil 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 green chili chopped I small onion chopped ½ inch ginger chopped
6 curry leaves 1 cup cooked rice ¼ cup yoghurt Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS • Heat the oil, add the mustard seeds, green chili, onion, ginger and curry leaves. • Cook till onions are clear • Add the yoghurt • Switch off the flame • Add the rice • Stir and enjoy! RATING SCALE: LEVEL 1: SUPER EASY LEVEL 2: RELATIVELY EASY
LEVEL 3: MEDIUM SKILLS REQUIRED LEVEL 4: COOKING SKILLS A MUST LEVEL 5: ARE YOU SURE YOU WANNA DO THIS?
mon
tue
MY DECEMBER ECO PLEDGE
MY DECEMBER TO DO LIST
5
6
Boots Ladrillo
Chan Blaza
4
n Tourism e e r G d l Wor C 5-7 @ ADNE
Dubai Rugby 7’s @ The Sevens 1-3
12
Laveezah Khan
World Family Summit @ Yas Hotel 5-7
13
Hansel Punnam
Erwin Lugtu
11
Cheryl Wayco
December
sun
Eye on Earth Summit @ ADNEC 12-15
World Health Care Congress ME @ ADNEC 11- 13
18 Kling Blaza
19
Omega Dubai Ladie s Masters @ Emirates Gold Clu b 11-17
20
Festival of Falconry in Al Ain 11-17
L PUL T OU GE PA
Merry Christmas!!!
26
Alex Eusebio
27
Zeeshan Razzaqi
25
Zainab Khan
Congratulations to Albert and Stephanie on your wedding today!
Day t Boxing It was y! Know wha da is? r e t s e y that
thu
sat
fri
2
3
Arjun Suria
1
to the UAE on Congratulations of union! ar ye th its 40
o@ Dubai World Gaming Exp 2 1/1 DICEC 29/11Alena
Ankit Lodha
8
9
SM @ AD E 2011 NEC 5-8 Chris Xaviour
Jing and Alex
14
10
Winter Charity Fair @ Abu Dhabi Mall
AR Rahman @ Dubai International Stadium tomorrow
Davina Lewis
Albert Bravo
15
16
8th Film Dub Fes ai Int tiva ern l 7 atio -14 na l
ity n ival C w o t r s is B i Fe Chr Duba @
In aid of Medecins Sans Frontiers Jun Suarez
7
Festival Abu Dhabi Corniche 30/11- 3/12
Gail D’Souza
wed
17
Indian Property Sh ow Airport Expo, Duba @ i 15-17
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!! Shankar Ehsaan Loy @ ADNEC tomorrow
International Autumn Trade Fair @ DICEC 13-15
Junlie Wayco
Mariam Abassi
28
29
30
31
Al Dhafr a Ca @ Madin mel Festival at Za 17-28 yed
Mubadala World Tennis Championship 29-31
Veronica
24
Richard Brown
23
Mehreen Malik
22
Nana Christie
21
abi
Abu Dh an RaceVolvo Oce Dec- 14 Jan 30 11 20
New Years Eve!!!
My favourite outfit has to be the off shoulder golden top I got from Bershka it was the last one in stock! It’s all glittery down the front and on the back it’s a different shade of gold. I love shopping at Bershka and Forever 21. I love going to malls to do my shopping especially Marina Mall or Abu Dhabi Mall.
FASHION STATEMENT: MY STYLE IS PRETTY ECLECTIC, ALL THE WAY FROM LACE TO GLITTER!
eople p n e h w I hate it fur! I’m l wear rea nimal against a all types n cruelty i s! and form
hi dy Mer n i C : e m a N nadian a C e Age: 21 s e y: Leban student Nationalit e t a u d : Gra Profession
I think Abu Dhabi does have style; it’s especially noticeable am ongst the young people.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS? RUNNING MY OWN CREATIVE ARTS AND MEDIA COMPANY
Name: Lama Age: 22 Profession: Student Nationality: Syrian Motto: Three things in life once gone never come back: time, words and opportunity Your most valued possession: My drawing book
WHAT IS YOUR HARMONY AND IN MIND IDEA OF PEACE? BALANCE AND HEART WHAT RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS HAVE YOU PERFORMED SO FAR IN 2010?
WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO BE STUCK IN AN ELEVATOR WITH? LEAST LIKE?
AN OLD MAN FROM RUSSIA. WOULD LEAST LIKE TO BE STUCK WITH SOMEONE THAT HAS CLAUSTROPHOBIA
WHAT’S YOUR CURRENT LAST SONG SYNDROME (LSS)? THE HIGH ROAD BY BROKEN BELLS
RAISED A STRAY CAT
WHAT ARE 3 THINGS THAT TODAY HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU CAN IMPROVE ON TOMORROW?
CONFIDENCE, FAITH AND STRENGTH
IF YOU WERE TRAPPED IN A TV SHOW FOR A MONTH, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE? LIPSTICK JUNGLE WHAT WAS THE MOST RECENT MOVIE THAT MADE YOU CRY? BEAUTIFUL MIND
WHO IN YOUR LIFE DESERVES A BIG OLD THANK YOU?
THE ONES THAT BELIEVED IN ME WHAT IS THE CRAZIEST SHAVED MY HAIR THING YOU HAVE EVER FROM THE SIDES AND BLEACHED IT RED. DONE?
IF YOU WANTED TO LOOK ABSOLUTELY GREAT, HOW WOULD YOU DRESS?
SLEEK BLACK DRESS WITH AN OPEN BACK, TWO SMALL CREAMY PEARL EARRINGS AND AN ANKLET.
WHAT ITEM DO YOU KEEP BUYING EVEN THOUGH YOU HAVE PLENTY? BOOKS AND CANDLES
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU HANGING OUT MOST? ALL AROUND ABU DHABI ONE THING YOU CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT: KNOWLEDGE
THE PERSON WHO INSPIRES YOU THE MOST: DOERS 1
2
FIVE THINGS 3WATER, FOOD, YOU NEED FOR MAP, FINANCE 4 AND ADAPTATION 5 SURVIVAL:
WHAT CAR WOULD YOU LIKE TO OWN? NISSAN 350Z
YOUR WISH LIST OF COUNTRIES TO VISIT. COUNTRIES TO VISIT: LONDON, FRANCE, TANZANIA, ITALY, SRI LANKA AND PHILIPPINES. IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU BE? NY IF YOU WERE ON DEATH ROW, WHAT WOULD YOUR LAST MEAL BE? MY MOTHER’S KOUSA WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESSERT? COOKIES AND OREOS
GAME HEDZ
Blakniss | Original game head from Atari to XBox!
Well it is 40 years of an incredible nation and yes, game heads can celebrate too! Here are at least a couple reasons: Point Blank and Ubisoft. POINT BLANK What is it ye ask? Well according to developers, Tahadi Games, “Point Blank, extremely popular in the USA, is played by over 20 million gamers worldwide. It is the No.1 shooting game in Russia, Thailand and Indonesia, and is massively successful in the competitive markets of Brazil and Philippines.”
Sounds pretty sweet right? If you want to download it just bounce to the Game Hedz blog and click the link. It’s for the PC platform, but if you have a Mac you can use the Boot Camp software (free with OS Leopard and upwards) to play it. Look out for the review in the next issue and hit us up on the blog to tell us what you think. We’ll include your reviews in ours.
UBISOFT Now if you like the Assassins Creed series or Prince of Persia then you’ll love this news: Ubisoft, developers for the aforementioned games, is setting up shop in the UAE! Wuhoooooooo!
Not bad. Tahadi Games has offices in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and right here in Abu Dhabi! Yea, the UAE is becoming a place for game developers, not just game heads.
It will actually be a game development academy, based in the creative incubator/ generator TwoFour54. So if you want to go from just playing games to designing them, March 2012 is your date!
So more about Point Blank. Tahadi Games gives us the low down:
These are good signs for the UAE and Arab gaming in general: a good reminder that gaming is serious business! So anytime folks give you flak for gaming too much, just tell them you’re practicing ;)
Point Blank is basically a tactical First Person Shooter (FPS) that pits a team of eight playable characters against each other, with access to more than 200 weapons and items, eight game modes, and more than 40 stages in different sceneries. It has destructible and interactive environments as well as level progression with roleplaying game (RPG) elements.
UAE DIVERSITY:
Seasons greetings and happy 40th birthday UAE! See you game heads in 2012, insha’allah!
Ahmed Samir
So it was there that I met a lot of interesting people, a fair number were volunteering at the festival. I also met a nice man (a “Caucasian”) and upon discussing the film we had just watched he asked me where I’m from, and I asked him where he was from…The man’s answer to my question was: Georgia.
MEETING A GEORGIAN, FROM UH, GEORGIA The UAE is a country with remarkable diversity. Allow me to illustrate my point by drawing on a past experience: during the last edition of ADFF, The Abu Dhabi Film Festival (which, I may add, was great fun) it’s sometimes customary to socialize with the avid film watchers after the films end, and discuss things like plot, story, character development and all that goodness that only really exists in noncommercial, made-for-the-art-of-it films.
I answered, perhaps expectedly: “So, America?” He gave me a funny look, like he had got that response many times before and sort of expected it, and he said: “No, Georgia the country. It’s in Europe.” Wow, how rare is that?! Did you know that Georgia - the country -existed? I certainly didn’t! And it’s so amazing that you meet someone from such a small country, worlds away, right here in the UAE. So not only did I have a fun day of films and discussion, I also learnt of a new country, its people, culture, heritage, and, frankly, existence! Now, think about the people you met today, on the street or on the bus, at work or school…think about where they are (or might be) from. Isn’t that amazing diversity?! Being the inquisitive person I am, I just love that! And this is only possible in a place like the UAE, a place one may rightly call a melting pot of cultures.
DOC IN THE HOUSE
Dr.DMS
| A Doc from the Bronx
Middle East. You also have some of the highest accident statistics involving pedestrian versus car. Another “crowning achievement”? Nothing to be proud of. Consider all those wasted lives (Theyab Awana, anyone?). This is totally preventable- its up to you. Cardiovascular deaths. For a nation with seemingly good resources, the numbers are high, but lower than developing or war shattered nations such as Iraq, Afganistan, or Naru for example. Compared to other GCC countries, you’re in the middle. This is the #1 killer worldwide.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY UAE You’re so “grown up”!
60 is the new 40 these days, so if the UAE were a person, is it healthy? Top 10 causes of death in the UAE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Ischemic heart disease Road traffic accidents Cerebrovascular accidents Hypertensive heart disease Lower respiratory infections Kidney disease Diabetes mellitus Congenital anomalies Cirrhosis of liver Rheumatic heart disease
Diabetes is surprisingly lower on the list (2nd highest worldwide prevalence). Diabetes affects other problems and worsens them. Blood sugar control is very poor, and this directly results in complications, including death. Eat well, exercise, weight control, take your meds, etc, will save your life!! A simple solution, but it requires some effort on your behalf.
Motor vehicle deaths. You’re up there!! Eritrea tops the list for the gold, but you get the bronze medal!!! Considering the total population here, this figure becomes daunting. Driving here is quoted as the worst in the
A DEDICATION TO THE NATION
Strokes and hypertensive heart disease are related. There’s a lot of hypertension here, and it’s under treated. People take their meds sometimes, or don’t even bother. Diet modification? Unheard of. Medical follow up? Poor at best. Strokes are related to long standing uncontrolled hypertension. Controlling one variable, controls the others.
40 isn’t old, but you’re like a kid with Progeria. Since the UAE is one of my patients, I am concerned. You’re not heading for the grave, but if bad habits carry on, and ignored, hoping that someone else will fix it, I fear the worst. Only you can save yourself......from yourself.
Sara Taher
FROM MONTREAL, WITH LOVE When I first moved to Abu Dhabi five years ago, kicking and screaming, I never imagined that I would soon develop a strong bond with the city. Relocating from Montréal, my first few months were filled with sadness, as I longingly ached for the cold city in the north. I’m not quite sure when it happened, but at some point of my stay, my gripping about city life became superficial and subsided. I found myself missing my new city on long vacations and the site of Abu Dhabi from a descending plane began to put a smile on my face. So what happened in five short years that changed my feelings so drastically? I suppose that as with any relationship, spending time with someone reveals their true nature. After Abu Dhabi revealed to me her true nature, as I did to her, we established a symbiotic friendship that is sure to last a lifetime. We have witnessed tribulations and triumphs together and it seems that our paths of growth and development are intertwined. Although I was 29 years old when I moved here, I experienced many “firsts” in the five years I have lived in the nation’s capital. My first camping, my first mountain climbing, first free diving, first dune driving and even first
(and hopefully only) marriage were all experienced because Abu Dhabi gave me a home. My career soared; I experienced a new financial freedom I did not have in Canada. I saw Metallica and Guns N Roses perform live, a dream I had since I was 13 years old! I enjoyed a falcon perched on my arm, curiously staring into my eyes (pretty sure not out of hunger!)
Looking back at these extremely fruitful five years, I cannot help but admit that the United Arab Emirates has given me more than my share of happiness and fulfillment. With her 40th and my 33rd birthdays around the corner, it seems that every birthday we spend together is always time well spent. I won’t give her a card or some flowers on her birthday but I will give her my unconditional love and on my birthday, I’m sure she will do the same! Happy birthday UAE!
JUST HANDCRAFTED
Preethi Janice D’Sa
| Scientist-artiste hybrid
ALL THEMED UP THE CUPCAKE WAY Today I would like to encourage you to make themed products that fit in with your handcraft work. This is the best time to start, what with the UAE’s 40th National Day celebrations happening and the end of the year festivities upon us. I have with us a talented food crafter, Shifana Anwar, founder of Melting Moments. She shares photos of her themed cakes specially made for the 40th UAE National Day celebrations. Shifana always starts with a sketch and then adds details to the cake. So that by the actual baking process she already knows what the client’s taste is (no pun intended). One factor that is important to her (apart from food safety) is never compromising on the quality of ingredients used. The reason? “It’s simple: the quality of the ingredients directly affects the taste.” Shifana says that she is her own worst critic. I can empathise with her. Creatives (me included) are die hard perfectionists. Whilst others may compliment us on our work (yes, we do accept compliments gracefully),
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we never cease to critique our work and strive to improve our designs and processes. So, now that I’ve shared with you a great example of themed work, what theme would you like to use in your work? Once you have decided, use the web to get inspired (copying not allowed). Work out the audience you wish to sell to, do a bit of market research to see if they would be interested in your themed products. Drop me a line at info@writedsaign.com if you would like to share what happened as a result. I may post the best answers at the Cultural Arts Travelogue website. So that’s me, Jan, signing off for this year. Have a great “melting moment” whatever you’re creating and wherever you’re celebrating. Jan D’Sa runs a technical/bid writing consulting business and is the founder of Janys De mixed media jewelry and cufflinks. Visit her site: https://www. facebook.com/CulturalArtsTravelogue
Sarah Widdup | Living the dream, needing the sleep
differences between them. My daughter, bless her heart, can often be heard practicing her Arabic words while talking to friends, and then telling them what she’s just said and which language it is that she’s speaking.
CITIZENS OF THE WORLD:
MAKING A MOVE FROM DOWN-UNDER Moving to the UAE was a huge leap for my family and me. We’d heard all the whispers about how strict the rules would be, and frankly, I was expecting a serious amount of culture shock. And I was shocked, but not in the way you’d think, and not in a bad way. The move here was something we did to secure the future for our family, mostly in a financial sense. Little did I know that there were so many other ways that my family would benefit. For me, seeing my children become little citizens of the world has been the most amazing part of our adventure here. They’ve met people from all over the globe, and are very accepting of other cultures and the
The cosmopolitan nature of this place has been a real eye opener for us, and something for which I am truly grateful. I really feel that Abu Dhabi has been a gateway to the rest of the world for us, and the contacts and friends that we’ve made here will make it possible to keep travelling and having adventures. Well, that is if we ever decide to leave here, and right now I don’t want to! The UAE, it seems to me, is a real land of opportunity. You could, at any moment, meet someone who will help you jump on to an exciting new path. The very fact that you’re reading this now is testament to that! I was lucky to meet someone, who knew someone, who I then spoke to for something completely unrelated and then shazam! I’m doing what I love – writing. So happy birthday UAE! And thanks for everything!
ARTICULATE
Neena Rai | An artist with a flair
UAE: ART AND CULTURE TRANSFORMED Come second December and we all will be celebrating UAE’s 40th National Day. The country will be decked in lights and decorations will be seen across the streets. People will be out on the streets celebrating the joyous occasion. A lot of emphasis is paid to the cars and one can see almost all cars decorated in the national colours. The fun part about National Day celebrations is that it is not limited to nationals only. I have seen people from all nationalities participate in it. Last year in Abu Dhabi I saw a foam fight between a Pathan driver and some Emirati kids. I am still unsure who seemed to be enjoying it the most. The most amazing part of this festive time is that art stretches to new limits that have not observed before. After beautifying the streets and cars in the national colours, comes the beautifying with teddy bears. Yes, teddy bears. If this is your first time, keep an eye out for the giant teddy bears atop the cars. Oh, and the teddy bears are made to match the Emirati colours. Some people may find it gaudy, but I think it is absolutely funky.
MINI MINX
Angeli Castillo
I will soon complete my fifth year in the UAE, and it seems this land is improving with time. I have seen drastic changes in every sphere. Every year the National Day celebrations seem to get better and better. The art shows have increased in popularity and the variety of art on offer is something to reckon with. The Abu Dhabi Art and Manarat Al Saadiyat have transformed the cultural landscape with the help of the Film Festival. The F1 and Ferrari World have added glamour to this sleepy town of five years ago. The various concerts at Yas and the Corniche have given a lot of options to the general public to be able to pursue and partake in cultural activities. And, at the eve of my completing five years in this country, I am struck by how many choices there are. When I first came here I was at a loss on what to do and how to become engaged in cultural activities. Now there are so many choices that often I literally do not know where to go!
| Making minutes out of molehills
UNDER HIS BLACK HALO: SULTAN SAEED AL DARMAKI As an expat who was born and raised in Abu Dhabi, I had the privilege of watching the city grow and learn the customs and traditions of this land while meeting a handful of local Emiratis who grew along with it but at the same time managed to maintain their humble roots. One example is Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki, an Emirati born on the 24th August 1982 in Abu Dhabi. He graduated from New York Institute of Technology in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources. Apart from being the owner of Al Darmaki Group of Companies, he is also a freelance writer who self-published his first book “Under My Black Halo” in late 2010, he contributes regularly to Gulf Today Panorama magazine through his column “Impromptu,” and also dabbles in photography. One of Sultan’s inspiration is life itself, “because life is a dynamic entity there will always be moments felt that would inspire anyone to try to capture it via pen or camera.” For an Emarati who has been writing for almost three years and recently took up photography almost nine months ago, he believes that anyone can do what he does, and that all it takes is a little patience, a little dedication and most
important of all, lots of self-motivation. Just like this nation that has developed so quickly in so little time, Sultan finds inspiration in the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, because of what he has done for his country as well as for the rest of the world. Sultan says: “I am compelled to follow in his footsteps and try to do my part for the Emirati and global community.” While most people find adjusting to this glorious and giving city a challenge at times, it is now a part of me; I remember as a child having so many happy memories and yes, even though some times were hard I always found some comfort here in my home knowing that the residents of this place will always be taken care of one way or another. Sultan supports the same idea because he thinks that in another 40 years time we will still be enjoying the same level of prosperity and peace we’ve had in the past 40 years, and that the only difference is that it will be shared by more people. Sultan’s message to the new generation of this nation is to motivate them towards a better future. He says it is important to try to do three things simultaneously: to learn from the Emirati culture and the great men and women of this country, to know why it is important to be proud of yourself, and to explore the world so that you might open their eyes to different walks of life and develop a better understanding of humanity. You will find some of Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki’s work on the website: www. sultandarmaki.com. Sultan also takes part in literature and community events and is active in social media.
YANK IN THE SANDLAND
Randy Parker presence is not oppressive at all. The driving habits of some need a little work though. The UAE is also taking global leadership in developing alternate energies. I think I became somewhat spoiled during my time living here.
ADIEU FROM CAPTAIN AMERICA NOW IN EXILE… What a wild ride it has been for the UAE! Just forty years ago HH Sheikh Zayed united the seven Emirates to form the United Arab Emirates and the rest is history. I cannot think of any other country that has progressed so far and so fast in so little time. This reaffirms HH Sheikh Zayed’s leadership and that he wanted nothing but the best for his people. The UAE is also unique in its demographic makeup as the vast majority of the population is from somewhere else. I know of no other area in the world where this is the case. And you know what? It works! This is a true multi-cultural country that has a minimum of friction between the many nationalities living here. Folks from different places that may have disagreements when living in their respective countries magically work, live and play well together here. Also, I find the UAE to be a clean, safe (traffic sadly excluded) and modern country. I always feel comfortable walking anywhere at any time in Abu Dhabi yet police
JUST A THOUGHT
Manar Al Hinai
Speaking of which, this will be my last column for Tempo. I recently resigned from my regular job and by the time you read this, I will be on my way back to the US to seek some tempting opportunities. I want to thank Editor Sana Bagersh who 2 1/2 years ago gave this fledgling blogger a chance for the “Big Leagues”! The rest of the crew is great too. But most of all I appreciate those of you who took time out of their busy day to read my column. With every word I wrote I intended to entertain you, and I really hope I did. Writing is a labour of love and I would write even if I knew nobody was reading my work, but it is very satisfying to have my column published so I know it has a chance to be read. I intend to find another writing gig back in the States and maybe I will submit a guest column once in awhile to Tempo just to stay in touch.
Thank you everyone, I will miss you all....aloha!!! Oh, Happy Birthday UAE, I will miss you too, I had a great time. May your flag wave forever! (From the ed: we’ll miss you too, Captain America. God bless, Randy, and stay in touch with your Tempo family. Sana)
| A Khaleeji girl who overthinks a lot and loves to write
P.S. UAE, I LOVE YOU!
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Every time I leave the UAE on holiday, I realize how much I love it, and even though I would be enjoying my break, I simply cannot wait till I hop on the plane and go back there; go back home.
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There is something magical about the UAE that makes people from different backgrounds feel a sense of belonging and security; Something that words will fail to describe, and no country on earth would ever compare to.
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With the 40th National Day Celebrations going on, I cannot help but think about the many reasons that make me passionately love this land. So my dear readers, I would share with you some and I am sure that many of UAE agree with me: • •
I love our amazing leaders who treat their people like their own family members I love how hospitable and generous Emirati are, and how they are tolerant and welcoming for those wishing to reside on their land
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I love how the UAE blends heritage and modernity. You can be shopping in the world’s largest mall, and 20 minutes later be driving on sand dunes. I love how safe this country is, and I don’t have to worry of getting robbed, killed, or kidnapped. I love the UAE because this where I grew up, went to school, where my best memories took place, and where I will always live. I love the UAE because it introduced me to the best friends I could ever have who come from different backgrounds and share the same passion for this land as its people I love the efforts made by the country to preserve islands like Bu Tinah and its environment
Finally I love it because this where I first learned to love, and you, the UAE, is one of my first loves, and you will always hold that special place in my heart. Congratulations! You are still young but big in achievements. Keep on dazzling us, and the rest of the world. We are holding our breaths.
WANTED:
EMIRATI ENTREPRENEURS By Ian Mason
Strewth! If you were a visitor to Australia, you’d be dining with a dingo, cooking with a kangaroo and waltzing with a wombat. But in Abu Dhabi, Emirati cultural experiences don’t seem to extend much further than the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Sure, there is the Heritage Village, but culture is about interpretation, and the Heritage Village could do it so much better. And don’t start me on the desert safaris. Belly dancers, shisha...not really Emirati culture, is it? If you surveyed 100 people arriving on the next Etihad flight, I reckon 79 of them (ok, so we guessed) would be visiting for a cultural experience.
The UAE must highlight its grassroots culture – not just the broadscope cultural precinct being built on Saadiyat Island – and it is Emirati entrepreneurs who must drive it. They need to bring their Bedouin knowledge, their life experiences, their family heritage to the 2.3 million hotel guests expected to pile into the country by the end of 2012.
Culture is a powerful attractant for visitors. People travel because they want to experience a different lifestyle to their own, broaden their cultural awareness and show off their newly-found knowledge to their friends back home.
And help is freely available. The Khalifa Fund aids visionary Emiratis with financial support while organisations such as Tamakkan offer an amazing mentoring and training base.
But experiencing traditional Emirati culture in Abu Dhabi is often harder than applying for residency.
I’m a Westerner. I can’t do it. It would look plain stupid and incredibly noncredible.
The tourism industry in Abu Dhabi – indeed the whole UAE – is crying out for Emirati cultural experiences. It is not as though the possibilities are short either. How’s this for an example. A foodies tour that visits the fruit and vegetable market, allows visitors to cook a traditional Emirati meal and sample hospitality in a majlis. Imagine that in the skilled hands of an Emirati guide.
It needs the skilled, experienced hands of an Emirati – an Emirati that is investing in their own business to bring local culture to the world.
Or perhaps an arts tour featuring paintings, handicrafts and calligraphy. A nature tour visiting the Falcon Hospital and Saluki Centre. A shopping tour to the souks to try on an abaya. A sail on a dhow. A basic Arabic language lesson. This is Emirati culture, the thing that 79% of visitors (according to the Mason method of research) want to experience in Abu Dhabi. The UAE needs Emiratis to proudly interpret and preserve their own culture. It demands entrepreneurs with the energy, vision and passion to showcase these cultural experiences. The Director of Strategy and Policy at Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority says so. More importantly, visitors say so.
So next time you visit Australia and see a koala doing karaoke, don’t laugh. You can be sure he’s doing it for the culture of his country. Ian Mason is a Tamakkan trainer and coaches on marketing, hospitality and media. Tamakkan offers a range of basic business workshops for entrepreneurs and corporate “intrapreneurs”, including Selling Skills, Presentation Skills, Developing Marketing Plans, Customer Service and many more. Contact Camille on (02) 4918624 or email info@tamakkan.org for workshop schedules.
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MEDIA COLUMN
Alma Kadragic
TAMAKKAN SEMINAR: THE BUSINESS OF FILMMAKING December 18, 6-8pm, Al Mamoura Auditorium
SHEIKH ZAYED WANTED ETHICAL JOURNALISM EVEN BEFORE THE UAE WAS FOUNDED Last month The National ran an opinion column by Taryam al Subaihi titled The Taint of Bribes in the Media Still Corrupts Coverage. The author recalled that Sheikh Zayed “issued a government order to establish in 1969 the first daily newspaper, Al Ittihad” two years before the founding of the UAE in 1971. “Sheikh Zayed saw that the only way forward to develop Emirati society was through the creation of a news outlet and direct lines of communication with the public through the media.” Unfortunately, between that ideal and what actually goes on today, there’s a huge gap. Many journalists are in fact bribed and expect to be bribed to attend big events by companies – or the public relations and marketing agencies that work for them. The column led to a twitter flurry of comments giving examples of gifts like iPads offered to journalists. Serious news organizations don’t allow their journalists to accept costly gifts; serious public relations agencies don’t suggest things like this to clients and resist clients who demand that journalists be bought. An ethical and sensible public relations practitioner knows that paying for news once means paying for news always. It’s difficult in a developing market like the UAE where most journalists don’t earn much for everyone to behave ethically, but that should be the goal. Editors at news companies should promote the rules of ethical journalism and penalize those who don’t follow them.
Most important, more Emiratis should become journalists. They are best positioned to report on their own country and to be well paid while doing so. More Emirati journalists would make the profession recognized in the UAE as important and honourable. Probably that’s what Sheikh Zayed would have expected.
A discussion about the UAE’s Filmmaking Industry, the opportunities it presents and the resources available. Speakers/panelists include: • John Kochanczyk, sound recordist and specialist in post-production sound and lecturer at the New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi. • Khalid Al Mahmood, Emirati filmmaker who has been in the business for over 10 years and labeled as one of the Top 10 Arab Filmmakers to Watch by Screen International Magazine. • Marcelle Aleid, Deputy Director of Abu Dhabi Film Commission • Mohammed Al Otaiba, Head of ImageNation Abu Dhabi Moderator: Chris Newbould, Editor of Digital Broadcast Magazine Attendance is free but registration is required. To register, call Priya on 024918624 or email: info@tamakkan.org. TAMAKKAN GROW SEMINAR SERIES Tamakkan Corporate Bootcamp Enroll today in one day workshops and enhance your performance at work Classes for December 2011 and January 2012: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Presentations that Win Leadership 2012 Managing Yourself: Priorities and Decisions Simple Selling Skills Answer the Phone and Increase Your Sales Plan for Excellent Customer Service Keep Your Customers Happy Introduction to Social Media for Corporations Social Media Toolset The Social Business Social Media Engagement Best Practices in Project Management Managing Risks in Projects
TAMAKKAN ENTREPRENEUR SKILLBUILDING WORKSHOPS Hands on workshops for business success Classes for December 2011 and January 2012: • • • •
Marketing Plans Made Easy Using Publicity to Promote Your Business Simple Selling Skills Analyzing Your Business: Moving to 2012
For more information, call 02 4918625 or visit www.tamakkan.org
HOROSCOPE Aries (21 March - 19 April) Well, you seem to be the main actor in our zodiacal play this month. But, really, what does all this mean? Well, you may seek a titillating new relationship (and cry ‘till you find one). You may aggressively and boldly go where no one else wants to. And you may make a lot of money. Life sounds good. Taurus (20 April - 20 May) Almost everything I said to Aries is hidden to you (except the money thing). So what’s the purpose of life without all those scintillating items to pursue? Well, due to the fact that money’s pretty much your purpose in life, only focus on money and absolutely nothing else. The rewards come later, don’t you worry. Gemini (21 May -20 June) Your self-expression is the focus in all matters of both mind and heart. It is vitally important that you think clearly before speaking because your knowledge base can be a model for others. It will not bode well if you are careless with your speech. Nor should you impose yourself in any way on others. Cancer (21 June - 22 July) The group’s what’s important and this will be what zooms you to the top of your professional world. Should you cast the group aside (co-workers, employees, helpers, service people, etc.) your recognition in the world will be tinged with questions as to how you got to the top and what your motives were/are. Leo (23 July - 22 August) Oh, my, you’re in the best position for a great big position in the corporate world. Even if you scoff at such things, you’d best be prepared for recognition from lots of authority figures attempting to find and talk with you, and a temptation for growth that even you, king and queen of the zodiac (in your last life) aren’t prepared for. Virgo (23 August - 22 September) Personal self-identity is the focus through which your leadership abilities will emerge. Therefore take a deep look at yourself, beginning with your appearance. Next, look at your emotional life. Lastly, ask if your intellectual life is being stimulated. For this to occur, you need a spiritual basis. What is it? Libra (23 September - 22 October) Future goals need to be pursued. Today is what makes tomorrow so whatever group you’re fostering, either expand it, work with it, or eliminate it and start anew. This is a tricky time for though you’re completely independent, group process is more important. This calls for cooperation, coordination, and the intention of Good will. Scorpio (23 October - 21 November) Don’t waste your energies on long-range desires. They make you look unattractive with longing looks on your face while your eyes yearn off into some possible future. Go home and clean your house. Become a minimalist in all areas of your life, especially what you think are your foundations.
Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December)
Communications can fall down and subtly disappear. This may lead you to feel unempowered and then crazy. Don’t pull at your hair or apologize. You need a really good vehicle to carry you out of the valley and over the plains to a mountain. You need a fencing class and to shine some armor (or at least some silver spoons).
Capricorn (22 December - 19 January)
So that the money you do have doesn’t disappear, put everything in the bank or in an inflammable safe and begin to write down each month the amount and where money is spent and what’s brought in. Place 20% in a tithing account for you (and family), and then find an investing group or a broker you trust. Aquarius (20 January - 18 February) So what’s outmoded and truly old here? Is it your hair, your clothes, your idea of life, your style of walking, your shoes, your attractions in relationship, your artistic endeavors, or your idea of how money is made? This Month you should hear something concerning new home, work, friends. Others, on the hidden side of life, are helping you. Pisces (19 February - 20 March) You’re beginning to define yourself in terms of what your gifts truly are. This is an important new phase in your life making you strong and decisive. Take time for writing, communicating, counting money, and reordering your sense of self. What’s coming is relentlessly promising.
CORPORATE GIFTS PRESENTATION
BrandMoxie informs its clients that it will be holding a two day Corporate Gifts Presentation on December 13 and 14 at its office located near Al Nahyan Camp on Muroor. BrandMoxie will present a large assortment of corporate gifts including diaries, executive sets, VIP gifts, promotional items, USBs, caps, etc. from a large number of local and international suppliers. This event is being held upon request from companies to gather a wide range of gifts under one roof. If you would like to view these items, call Sharon on 02-4918625 or email business@brandmoxie.com to book an appointment. Strictly for companies only. Easy ordering and convenient payment facilities. www.brandmoxie.com