bazaar Dec 2017 issue by bazaar magazine

December 2017 | Issue # 221 www.bazaar.town

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About the cover: Our December cover image by artist, photographer and creative director Abdullah Alsaleh invites us to embrace our inner free spirit, and a life full of dreams, for this holidy season. The artist's series arrives as a collaboration with Dalal to showcase her magical hula hooping skills as well as her beautiful personality. They developed the concept for the shoot together, built the props that were used and chose the location. December 2017 | Issue # 221 www.bazaar.town

“December, being the last month of the year, cannot help but make us think of what is to come.” a quote by Fennel Hudson that certainly rings true this time of year. December is always an interesting month here in K-town, that’s for sure. On the one hand, the weather is amazing, there’s literally tons of things to do from dining outdoors to hanging out in Marina Crescent, JACC, and Al-Shaheed Park, to desert picnics and so much more. There are loads of cool concerts coming up (who would have believed in a million years that Sting was going to perform in Kuwait!) and food festivals and outdoor markets like Qout Market which is our personal favorite. But then on the other hand, December signifies the end of the year, and one cannot help but analyze what one has achieved throughout the year, whether at work, or in one’s personal life, and that elusive bucket list that we’re all working on one way or another and of course all those upcoming 2018 new year resolutions, that we’re already thinking about.

The bazaar team...

We have lots to celebrate with the last print edition of 2017. Our December issue arrives as a merry showcase featuring great people, art, food, music and fashion. We get up close and personal with equestrian champion Fariah Alwagayan—a true inspiration for women in Kuwait, and artsy marketeer Ayaat Morgan in truth or dare. We meet the incredible talents behind the hit track “Abeeha”, which is officially our favorite soundtrack for the holiday season. From Kuwait to New York, we speak more with our cover artist and photographer Abdullah Alsaleh to learn more about him, and his aspirations for Kuwait’s burgeoning creative scene. From New York, we zip over to Dubai to catch up with mixed media artist Mariska Nell about her gorgeous recyclable artworks.

Ahmed Al-Ashab

We decided to end the year on a fabulous note, headed over to Harvey Nichols Kuwait for an enchanting wardrobe makeover. We even took it one step further, and spoke to their style experts to find the best makeup looks to accompany your perfect New Year’s outfit! Still stuck with finding your ideal festive look? You can rest easy, as H&M just released their holiday collection! From amazing people, to festive fashion, December is absolutely all about cozy gatherings over delicious bites. We first speak with food startup accelerators Savour Ventures to better understand how they’ve been helping the local community, and why you should get involved with their team to launch your food dream. From there, we revisit local concept Bao to check out their new Dim Sum menu that’s amazing for dinner parties and festive gatherings. Seeking more spice in our lives, we head to Texas Roadhouse to try out their latest Mango and Campfire BBQ ribs—and trust us when we say, you won’t be disappointed when you try them out. Merry Christmas and Happy Festivus to all of you amazing people! Happy reading! Ahmed El-Adly

Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Operations Tim Burns

Business Development Ihab Mokalled

Mixed Media Solutions Jennifer Cádiz

Content Coordinator Yasmine El Charif

Design Staff Writer/Online Media Amira Haroun

Staff Writer Yasmine Dalloul

Online Producer/Project Manager Umika Pidaparthy

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Cover By Abdullah Alsaleh

Editor Alia Al Duaij

Contributing Writers Barry Rodrigues George Tarabay Nejoud Al Yagout Dr. Susannah Joy Schuilenberg

Syndicates & Sources Baraka Bits Fast Company Kingdome.co LA Times MCT International Newsweek

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recycle me, please.

Mercedes

INDEX DECEMBER 2017 20

FARIAH ALWAGAYAN This month’s Up Close and Personal is truly an inspiration to the women of Kuwait. Strong, independent and focused with a touch of sass and lots of class, champion rider Fariah steps off of her horse for a minute to discuss her hopes, dreams and accomplishments with us.

AYAAT MORGAN

HARVEY NICHOLS

MARISKA NELL

Who said marketeers were dishonest? Not Ayaat Morgan! Ayaat’s megawhatt smile shines as much as her vibrant personality, which she tries to incorporate in her everyday life and profession as much as she can. She opens up to us in a game of Truth or Dare this month – read all about what she has to say.

Harvey Nichols enjoys nothing more than providing inspiration for you to hit the nail of your overall look on the head with perfection, and this season, they’ve gone all out to help you out for the holiday season! Say goodbye to those stressful last-minute shopping trips before New Years Eve!

Are you a startup looking to expand your knowledge on running a business? Do you need an extra push or some help? Savour Ventures just might be your life hack! Read all about this amazing accelerator run by a mighty team of three in this issue.

Have you heard "Abeeha" yet? This fun track is one that’ll put Kuwait on the map! It’s got everything: roots provided by Homoud Al Nasser, a catchy tune, and a great video! Step behind the scenes and meet the talents who made Abeeha happen.

Bao always does it right! The concept, perfect as is, has upped their menu by adding in Dim Sum – just in time for winter! We head over to the delicious eatery to check out what this made for sharing menu is all about, and trust us when we say it’s worth the trip.

This month, we’re honored to share our gorgeous cover as a credit to the talented photographer Abdullah Alsaleh. Step into the world of this artsy photographer, known for snapping everyday shots of everyday people in NYC.

SAVOUR VENTURES

ABEEHA

BAO: THE DIM SUM EDITION

P. 42 ABEEHA 10

Have you ever felt tempted to keep pretty packaging because you feel it looks too nice to throw out? What would you do with it? Mariska Nell has it figured out with her gorgeous recyclable artworks, including a lamp made out of Nespresso pods! Read all about her in this issue.

ABDULLAH ALSALEH

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what's on December 2017

‫هاني شاكر‬ HANY SHAKER

‫مساء‬ 8 | ‫ ديسمبر‬21 ‫الخميس‬ ً

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER | 8PM

‫صابر الرباعي‬

ASSALA

‫مساء‬ 8 | ‫ ديسمبر‬22 ‫الجمعة‬ ً

FRIDAY 22 DECEMBER | 8PM

SABER REBAÏ

‫مساء‬ 8 | ‫ ديسمبر‬9 ‫السبت‬ ً

SATURDAY 9 DECEMBER | 8PM

jacc-kw.com ‫لمزيد من المعلومات ولحجز التذاكر‬ Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS AT JACC Date: Saber Al-Rubaei Dec 9th, Hany Shaker Dec 21st, Assala Nasry Dec 22nd Location: Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Center Tunisian singer Saber Al-Rubaei's breakthrough was in 1983 when at age 16, he participated in ‘Nady Al Mawaheb’ (Talents Club) and won the first prize. He graduated high-school and embarked on his journey in the music world, getting his master’s certificate in music. Hany Shaker is dubbed, “Prince of Arabic Singing,” and the “Singer of Two Generations”. When renowned composer Mohamed Al-Mougy discovered his musical talent, and introduced him as a rising new star at the height of authentic Arabic music, bringing him on the stage for the first time with famed singer Fayza Ahmed. Assala Nasri, with her strong tone which doesn’t overshadow her distinguished tender sentiment, Assala Nasri is set to amuse her Kuwaiti audience in concert at Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Center (JACC). For more on the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, or to book tickets, please visit their website online at www.jacc-kw.com, or follow on Twitter and Instagram @jacc_kw, or Facebook: SJACCkwt for the latest updates.

EXHIBITION BY MOHAMMED AHMED IBRAHIM Date: Until Dec 12th Location: The Sultan Gallery Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim (1962) was born in Khorfakkan, UAE. He carries a degree in Psychology from Al Ain University, and completed a residency at Le Consortium Art Centre in Dijon, France. His work has been exhibited internationally, including the Sharjah Biennial in 1993, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2003 and 2007, the 2009 Venice Biennale, the Kunstmuseum Bonn in 2005, the Sharjah Art Museum in 2005 and 1996, the Dhaka Biennial in 2002 and 1993, Germany’s Ludwig Forum in 2002, the 2000 Havana Biennial, the 1998 Cairo Biennial, the Institut du Monde Arabe in 1998, Holland’s Sittard Art Center in 1995, and Moscow’s 1990 “Exhibition of the Emirates Fine Art Society in the Soviet Union.” Mohammed Ibrahim received the First Prize for Sculpture at the Sharjah Biennial in 2001 and 1999. His work is in significant collections, including Qatar’s Arab Museum of Modern Art, the Sharjah Art Museum and Holland’s Sittard Art Center. For more on this, and other events, please visit www.sultangallery.com. RED BULL CAR PARK DRIFT FINALS Date: Dec 8th Location: Sirbb Circuit, Kuwait City The story of drifting goes way back to the 1960s on winding Japanese mountain roads. A bunch of likeminded racers set out to beat their A to B times by exceeding the grip limit of their tires when taking sharp corners. It didn't do much to help their racing times but instead evolved into an entirely different discipline. Drifting was born, and by the year 1970 it was featured in the prestigious All Japan Touring Car Championship. Each rider took it further than the last, resulting in some awesome feats redefining driver control. It took 20 years for the international motorsports scene to take on drifting. Countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and China made drifting a fully-fledged sport. In 2005 a Red Bull manager discovered the drifting fever in a car park in Hong Kong and decided to spark some fire in the Middle East. Fast forward to the 2016 Regional Finals. Our region’s best drifters went full throttle in Oman. Three Omanis topped the podium. And at only 18 years of age, first time competitor Haitham al Hadidi took home first place after a stellar performance. Red Bull Car Park Drift 2017 is set to grow even greater with this year’s finals set to be here in Kuwait! For more information, visit www.redbullcarparkdrift.com. AMG FAMILY SEASONAL CONCERT Date: Dec 8th Location: New English School, Jabriya Join Kuwait’s oldest international music tradition, the AMG Family Seasonal Concert, performed (almost) annually since 1955. Plenty of Singalongs, a mix of serious and silly, a visit from the North Pole, and a medium-healthy buffet! The performance is set to take place at the New English School in Jabriyah, at 4.00 p.m. for families with young children, and 6.00 p.m. for everyone else. For tickets and more information, please visit www.eventat.com.

Chilli Beans

what's trending December 2017

What: @qoutmarket Info: Everyone’s favorite market is coming back! Editor’s Note: This year’s venue is at Al--Shaheed Park.

What: @thetalkingbirdy Info: Words of wisdom from an aspiring holistic health coach. Editor’s Note: Follow for daily pearls and yummy food pics!

What: @knitklix_and_chill Info: Gorgeous handmade knitwear. Editor’s Note: Makes a perfect holiday gift!

What: @healthylight Info: Himalayan salt crystal lights for sale, upon request. Editor’s Note: The perfect energy stimulant during cold winter nights.

www.bazaar.town

What: @communitytable Info: Celebrate food + culture through seasonal culinary experiences. Editor’s Note: Many great guest chef appearances!

What: @madisonandheig Info: Kuwait’s hottest new contemporary eatery! Editor’s Note: We’re so excited to try this place.

What: @dasman.live Info: Arts & Entertainment activities/programs by NREC Editor’s Note: If you love live jazz and blues, this is the place for you!

What: @nbkgroup Info: NBK Walkathon: December 9th, 2017. Editor’s Note: Follow them on Instagram for updates!

As much as we work our hardest to give you one rocking print issue after the other, we’re socially active (or try our best to be, we are bazaar humans after all) and we love it! Find us online: It makes our day when we see your tweets/mentions/likes/comments/shares about your favorite features and more. facebook.com/bazaarmagazine 16

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IN THE MOOD WITH HUMOUD

By Nejoud Al Yagout

Humoud Al-Humoud is a well-known musician in the local scene. Most people remember him from Freefall (now known as Mount Alchemy). But we are eagerly anticipating his solo album, as part of the 7 mood project - his involvement with none other than himself. Let's read on to see what Humoud can tell us about music. A couple of your solo songs are odes to a past love. Are you holding onto something or is it a cathartic way to letting go of it entirely? Usually? Neither. I write songs when I get inspired. I could be watching a movie or reading an interesting book and I get a strong urge to have to pick up a guitar and start writing straight away. Those moments are the most powerful, because usually the most gratifying melodies and tunes come to life. I like the listener to have his or her own take on the lyrics, which can then be applied to personal experiences. That is what I aim for, lyrically. We all have emotions that vie for our attention. And art helps us give those emotions a voice. Some people may argue that bringing the darker emotions 18

to the surface will only keep the illusory-self alive, while others argue the resulting therapeutic effect can release any false notion of who we are. Which camp resonates more with you? I must say that I relate more to the latter camp. Musically, I tend to respond greater to darker emotions and the outcome is very cathartic and gratifying. It is easier to write a slow song; slow songs seem to resonate every time. You are also a guitarist. What do you feel when you can marry your lyrics to music? Well, writing lyrics is not an enjoyable process for me, to be honest. It's so much easier for me to come up with music than lyrics. Sometimes, I grab a pen and paper and start writing lyrics, and the outcome is strong enough that I become pleased with myself. And then the music arrives straight away to partner the lyrics. The end result is a song that makes me proud. However, most of the time I come up with music, and then I find the appropriate lyrics for such music. Writing music is an addiction. Jimi Hendrix was onto something when he said that "Music does not lie. If there is something to be changed in this world, it can only happen through music." Surely, it has changed your own personal world. Any tips on

how music can transform our planet? Music is an outlet, as well as a need. A politician speaks or issues a statement that can encourage people to move forward or stand together. Countrymen sing their national anthem all standing side by side, hands on hearts. Artist, poets and songwriters can have the same impact as well. For me, personally, I feel lucky to have the ability to express my feelings through music. And it feels like you are removing a heavy weight from your shoulders when you express yourself through creating music. Finally, Humoud, what kind of songs can we expect to hear in your much-awaited upcoming album? In short, what's the vibe, the underlying feeling? Pray, do tell us! The upcoming album contains songs that I wrote years ago, which I did not have the chance to release yet, as well as songs that were written recently. The album is melodic, experimental and features local talent - who I had the pleasure of working with - singing with me. To keep up with Humoud, follow him on YouTube and Soundcloud @7 mood, Facebook: 7moodmusic and Instagram @7_mood_music. You can follow Nejoud on social media @nejoud.alyagout or visit her website www.nejoudalyagout.com.

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up close & personal

CONFESSIONS OF A CHAMPIONETTE Meeting award-winning professional rider Fariah Alwagayan By bazaar staff

Photo by Ahmad AlOtaibi 20

Before meeting Fariah Alwagayan, I didn’t know what to expect. Most local professional athletes tend to be young whippersnappers who, despite their emotional maturity from being exposed to the spotlight still have a bright-eyed view of the world. The poised and seemingly ageless Fariah may exude a similar positivity, but there’s an elegant touch of experience and wisdom radiating from the soles of her well-traveled riding boots. She has definitely lived years to understand what it really takes to practice her passion, and the importance of the good fight that is essential to dream chasing. However, bright eyes are on full display when Fariah talks about her dedication to horseback riding. Her everyday life is a fulfilling one, and we were lucky to get an hour of her time on an idle workweek. Where most of us drive home as fast as we can after a long day of work to be with our loved ones over a hot meal, Fariah’s life is a little bit different. “I’m at my day-job daily until 2:30 p.m., and then afterwards, I’m at the stables in Wafra with my horse, Al-Hout – training, learning and just riding. And that’s when I don’t have a tournament! A regular day for me ends at 8:30 p.m. if I’m lucky – it’s a hectic life, but I absolutely love it and wouldn’t give it up for the world.” Fariah has always loved horses, since she was a small child and repeatedly kept pestering her parents to buy her a horse. “They would always egg me on when I’d ask when my horse was coming, but it never came!” she laughs. “I would ask them every single day, pester them and say that I told my classmates that my horse was coming soon, to which they would respond that I needed to be patient, and that the more I grew, the horse would inch closer to me.” This metaphorical horse was always present, in her constant passion for riding. She would ride wherever and whenever she had the chance to, and in 2008, she began to take it seriously. “When I first toyed with the idea of professional riding, it began with jumping. The lessons and training wouldn’t last very long in the more official stables, and I knew I needed more. So someone told me about a center based by the Saudi borders where riding is taken to extremes. They trained riders for a star-based system depending on the amount of kilometers accomplished in riding and endurance, starting from 80 KM. That is when I decided that this was the sport I wanted to immerse myself in.” Immerse herself she did, and Fariah went on from jumping to becoming an award-winning professional rider, making her mark in competitions. Currently, she has surpassed a 100 KM distance in the Sheikh Mohammad Ben Rashed Al Maktoum Women’s Race in Dubai, has the title of being the only Kuwaiti who achieved 7th place in the Endurance tournament for 90 KM in Bahrain in March 2017, and has participated in the Verona World Cup Endurance Race alongside 300 riders and 33 countries for 120 KM, achieving two international stars with a top 20 placement. She still has her esteemed presence as the only Kuwaiti woman participating in the Endurance World Championship in Kentucky in 2018 to look forward to, but to for a Kuwaiti female athlete to achieve this venture, sponsorship is needed from certified companies or the government. Fariah is worthy of such endorsements, as the achievements mentioned don’t even cause a dent in [Continued...]

her long list of experiences. She, as a Kuwaiti woman, holds the honorable title of being one of the few who keep bringing home something to be proud of. “Developing this sport in Kuwait is what I am passionate about. What I love more than anything is to, as a woman, compete in both local and international tournaments only to proudly raise the Kuwaiti flag up high and achieve the impossible.” But for a woman, it’s difficult, and Fariah recognizes that. “I’ve fought my battle, and this is a time where I’m confidently doing something for myself. I want the women of Kuwait to know that they too, can achieve this without compromising their personal and familial values.” To build on that, and to spread her positive ideology to the women of Kuwait, she also intends to establish an official riding center for women like herself to achieve what they never thought they’d be capable of. “Kuwait doesn’t endorse this sport like other countries in the Gulf do, to the point where people can make a living out of such athletics. In Kuwait, we do this for passion, on top of our regular jobs and lives. But that’s why whenever we achieve, it feels more amazing because these achievements shine through from exhaustion, dedication, and sacrificing our personal time. Women here have every right to be a part of that.” Believe us, this dream-chaser will make sure that they will be – because even though she has already achieved so much, as she puts it, “if I can inspire just one girl to go after what she wants like I did, doing it with respect and integrity, then I can call myself a winner.”

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL QUESTIONNAIRE What do you most value in your friends? They have to be honest, trusting and supportive. A friend should always have your back. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Achievements, especially with horseback riding. It can move me to tears. What is your greatest fear? Losing a loved one. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? I can be hot-tempered, and I do get easily stressed out. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Making promises you can’t keep. Which living person do you most admire? My father. What is your greatest extravagance? First and foremost my horse, Al-Hout, who I would do anything for – but admittedly, shoes win once in a while.

[...Continued]

Photo by @vanga_kw Which words or phrases do you most overuse? 7amdillah and 3araftay? What is it that you most dislike? Depression. Sometimes you feel that life is unfair, but I think that it’s important to try and be positive no matter what. Which talent would you most like to have? I honestly can’t think of any! I like the talents I do have.

What is your most treasured possession? My Allah necklace that my mother gave to me. I would be quick to replace it if it was ever lost, but I never take it off. What is your most marked characteristic? I love people and I’m personable. I love getting to know people. Where would you most like to live? Berlin – it’s like a smaller, cleaner New York! I feel that it’s so artsy, historic and filled with culture– what else do you need?

If you could have any job, what would it be? I would’ve been great at marketing and advertising, but I ended up studying accounting instead.

What are your favorite words to live by? It’s never too late to achieve your dreams.

What would you consider your greatest achievement? Placing 7th in Verona during the World Champion Cup, and when I won the Mohammad Ben Al Rashed Al Maktoum 100 KM race, as the only woman.

Keep updated on Fariah’s fascinating journey with Horse Endurance Riding by following her on Instagram @fare3a_alwagayan.

Anotah

THE PACT WE MADE

Layla AlAmmar’s debut novel By bazaar staff

The weather calls for a curl-up with a cozy blanket on your favorite couch, a steaming cup of chai and a good book. Library lacking? We have a great one for you to pick up! Better yet, its author is one of our very own contributors – the whimsical wordsmith herself, Layla AlAmmar. Layla’s debut novel, The Pact We Made is still in the process of publishing, and while we haven’t been able to read the novel yet, we’re anticipating it. We’ve always known that Layla was a capable writer, courtesy of her long history of short story contributions to bazaar. To add to that, she has published short stories in Quail Bell Magazine, The St Andrews Red Letters Prose Journal, and Aesthetica Magazine, where her short story The Lagoon was a finalist for the Creative Writing Award 2014. For the University of Edinburgh alumna, The Pact We Made started out as a short story inspired by fellow classmates, who during her Masters program in Creative Writing, would ask why she hadn’t written short stories about Kuwait. “So, I made an effort to write a story set here about a girl named Dahlia. The response I got from them was very encouraging, and the following year, after I had graduated the program, Dahlia’s story began to come to me and I started to turn the short story into a novel.” But writing a full-blown novel is a different feat from the short stories her pen was accustomed to. “Writing is easy, editing is hard. The first draft of this novel was finished in about 7 months, and then I spent three years (!) editing and redrafting it. The book that will be published in March 2019 is very different from what the first draft was.” With that, we sit down with the honorary bazaarite (whom we couldn’t be more proud of) to learn all about the amazing venture of her freshman novel, while getting little snippets of the story in between. We hope it intrigues you as much as it does us!

Give us a briefing on the plot: The book tells the story of Dahlia, who is staring down the barrel of her 30th birthday – the age when a Kuwaiti woman from a good family is past her prime marrying years. Dahlia straddles two worlds, one in which she’s a modern woman living in a modern city, and another where she faces pressure to adhere to social customs. The novel is about Dahlia’s attempts to reconcile these two worlds. 24

How do you feel about the characters you’ve built? What do they represent? Every writer aims to write well-rounded, complex characters, so I certainly hope that mine meet the grade. The story is told from Dahlia’s point of view, but you do get a feeling for the other people in her life – her parents and sister, her childhood friends Mona and Zaina, and her work friend Yousef. These characters represent the various types of families and friends one encounters living in a modern, Arab society, and I hope people see some of themselves or people they know in them. Is the story meant to be autobiographical in any sense? What inspired you towards this specific plot? Readers always look for the writer in any novel, so I suspect people will wonder about this. There are certainly similarities between myself and Dahlia: we are roughly the same age (or we were when I started writing the book!), both unmarried, and both pursue some kind of artistic endeavor outside of our work lives. But that is really where the similarities end. Obviously, the struggle that Dahlia faces in reconciling her desire to be an independent woman with the pressures of society

is something most women can relate to, but the life she has lived and her specific experiences are entirely fictional. Who is your favorite character in the story? This is tough. I’ve spent a lot of time with them, and I tend to jump around a bit. Dahlia’s friend, Mona, is free-spirited and a little bohemian, which I find very appealing. Her friend Yousef is highly entertaining, and I think he’d be fun to be around. Dahlia herself is pragmatic and hopeful and brave despite her circumstances, which I think is to be admired. Any plans for a sequel? Not to this book, no. It is a stand-alone story, and I like that the ending invites the reader to imagine what happens to the characters in the future.

The Pact We Made will be published in hardcover by Borough Press in March 2019. Photo by Dana Zubaid. Follow Layla for her latest updates on Instagram and Twitter @layla_alammar.

Bleems

“ARE YOU HAPPY? OR ARE YOU JUST COMFORTABLE?” A ride into the depths of Ghaneema’s Digital Soul By Umjay M.

They say “only a fool tests the depth of the water with both feet," but walking up to the doors of ArtSpace on a Wednesday evening last month felt like arriving at the gate to a portal into a parallel universe, compelling you to jump in. Feet first. If there were ever a space transformed into the tangible mind of Ghaneema Al-Qudmani, it is Digital Soul. Floating clouds, spinning rainbows, dancing dragonflies, all things bright, all things shiny, all things neon against a UV-lit void of darkness – you have arrived at Ghaneema’s first solo exhibition. In the weeks leading up to the opening, Ghaneema spent most of her nights at ArtSpace, working tirelessly with the ArtSpace team creating, building, gluing, hanging, painting, hammering all the little corners of her Digital Soul. While those who know Ghaneema know of her undying belief in unicorns, magic and all things pizza and rainbows, they also know of the depth and trueness of her mind and soul. The quintessence of the cliché; 26

“what you see is what you get,” Ghaneema has no qualms expressing her truth in this life. Going against the grain that holds society together, she has long questioned the tightly-held value systems of culture, and their tendency toward blind submission to tradition. People no longer question. Is it because they no longer have the capacity for curiosity? For wonderment? Or is it because they dare not wonder? Or is it because they’re afraid of what they might find if they do? So much of why and how we do what we do with the majority of our lives is based on a foundation built long before we ever chose a college major. Like hopping on one of those airport-travelators, (not escalators, but the walking ones), we follow a pre-destined path down the big airport of life. You get off here or there; grab a coffee, pit stop at the restroom, buy a few things, get on a plane, do some stuff there, meet new people, reunite with old friends, but always returning to that one airport-travelator. Then there are those who would rather explore life on foot, through its deserts and forests, going places planes don’t go. Places they can’t go. It is in those

remote places that people often realize the bigger picture of their story. Digital Soul, a practical “walk-through” Ghaneema’s wanderings in life. The artwork combines elements of hand sketches, digital illustrations, text and color. Every piece carrying within it a personal journey of self-reflection. A Charles Bukowski devotee, many of her pieces depict the story, the moment, the feeling or even the mere curiosity in contemplating his many literary works. Bukowski quotes and personal opinions, all delivering a message - a very loud, unmistakable message. While it’s easy to read her story in her work, and it is a story worth reading, she hopes that through her exhibition she can rekindle that same spark of curiosity in others. Digital Soul showcased at ArtSpace last month. Article originally published on Kingdome.co. You can follow Kingdome on Facebook and Soundcloud @KingdomeMagazine, Instagram @Kingdome.co, Twitter @KingdomeCo and on YouTube: Kingdome Magazine. Photography by Fay Al-Homoud.

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A VISUAL PURSUIT

Introducing photographer, artist, and creative director Abdullah Alsaleh By bazaar staff

The Sun

Abdullah Alsaleh

Little did I know that, when I first met 21-year-old Abdullah Alsaleh earlier this year, I would be interviewing him about his work, let alone feature one of his stunning photographs as our December cover. Fast forward to a curious Instagram browse one November afternoon, and I was reintroduced to Abdullah’s incredible visual experiences living and studying in New York City. With every photo I saw and madly liked, I had a question. To which, he always had a fascinating story to share. From shooting at NYFW for Michael Costello to the back streets of Al-Sawaber in Kuwait City, Abdullah always has a scintillating visual story to tell.

Hi Abdullah, please introduce yourself to our readers. I am a 21-year-old student in New York City, Born and raised in Kuwait. I had the opportunity to experience two different cultures throughout my life, with my mother being Algerian and my father from Kuwait. I am the only son with two older sisters or best friends, I should say, who are if anything, the biggest role models I looked up too and still look up to. Going back and forth from Kuwait to Algeria expanded the way I think, as well as the experiences I have been through. I am, as every creative would say, a starving artist wanting to meet more people and experience new things to get inspired. When did you first become interested in photography? I’ve always had this creative energy in me that I did not know what to channel it towards. I grew up with a sister for an artist so she was always an inspiration when it came to me trying to project my creative energy. I started off with sketching those typical sun house stick figures to painting and drawing to finally photography. It was a couple of years ago, when a few of my very close friends who are also photographers, invited me to help them with a shoot they have organized that I had the opportunity to pick up a professional camera and actually participate in a shoot. Ever since then, I have not been able to stop, it’s like a constant need or hunger that I have to feed every day. Where are you currently based, and what are you working on right now? As I am completing my undergrad studies in the US, I am currently based in New York City, although I go back and forth to Kuwait multiple times throughout the year. Currently I am gathering inspirations from different perspective in hopes of creating a project I’ve longed imagined to turn into reality.

Gypsy

What inspires the various series that you’ve worked on, and what do you wish to communicate with your work? There are so many inspirations when it comes to my work. I think I am greatly inspired by whatever atmosphere I’m surrounded by. Negative or positive, the way my experiences or inspirations translate too in my work is always a message or an emotion that I install from myself and the person I am photographing onto the photograph. It could be as simple as feelings that are invoked from music that I hear, art pieces that I see, stories that I hear from the subjects, or an actual situation I’ve lived through that resonates with me strongly. I wish to communicate exactly the emotion that I am trying to deliver through my pieces, but I love hearing different interpretations because it gives me a different perspective of how people feel about a certain topic or theme which is always intriguing. Do you have a specific series that you favor more than others? I wouldn’t say favor, I’d rather say there are definitely series that have a much more stronger message that I relate or feel strongly towards than others. There are specific series that I can remember why and how they happened like it was an hour ago. the first one was with a best friend of mine [Badriyah] that I’ve shared so much of my life with, who I feel so connected to. In result, when I asked Badriyah to shoot, everything just flowed so naturally and we both communicated with each other during and before the shoot so easily because we both knew what kind of message we wanted to present. [Continued...]

The other series was with another close friend of mine who I’ve had the lovely chance to get to know this year. We’ve worked with each other on so many different types of shoots, but this one was close to both of our hearts and we both felt so strongly towards the message we wanted to deliver. A wedding dress that was created with the help of my extremely talented sister Sara and the huge space of Sawaber, an old complex in Kuwait City, both Dalal and I managed to create such a beautiful set of pictures that successfully evoked the specific emotions and feelings that we both aimed our audience would feel. What do you think is your key shooting strategy? (In layman’s terms, How do you get your subjects to execute a specific pose, or even emote a specific feeling, that you had in mind?) With some subjects, they embrace exactly how and what I want them to do before we start shooting, mostly because we are both on the same page of what kind of message is being delivered. Other subjects are different and understand the theme of the shoot more when the shoot is actually happening, and in some situations, the original idea changes, which is amazing because the subjects are a huge inspiration to me and the final result of project. I definitely direct movements and postures throughout the shoot, that are always connected to the message I am trying to present. The location and the outfit/clothing is also chosen by me relating to the message or “feel” of the shoot. Collectively, all these aspects create the final image or series. You describe yourself as a photographer, artist and creative director. Do you identify with one more than the other? I think an artist, photographer and creative director are each an approach to express different forms of art, and I cannot choose which one I identify with more, because I think I execute the job for every one of those titles when I am shooting. That being said, I think I started off as an artist with a lot of creative thoughts just waiting be executed, and then gradually as I was introduced to photography, I obtained the skills of a photographer and then slowly started to have more control over how and what I wanted my subjects to do and hence becoming the creative director of my work. Who are your personal influencers? I don’t necessarily have any specific personal influencers. If anything, it’s artists like Sade, Florence and the Machine, Lady Gaga and multiple other creatives that really excel at expressing their form of art. I am also influenced by the unknown, and by that, I mean the magical, dreamlike aspects of movies or TV shows like Practical Magic, Cinderella, The Sleeping Beauty, Charmed and much more that deliver this celestial message that only comes to life in mediums such a photography and videography. My emotions hugely resonate with the art that these entities create and as a result, my camera and I create our own kind of art. What do you think of Kuwait’s current creative scene in terms of output of creative projects? Do you feel that it can improve? I am so proud of Kuwait’s current creative scene, as I see a lot of individuals confidently expressing their creative energies. I also feel that society has embraced art more openly now because of the emergence of technologies that make the life of an artist easier in terms of presenting their work and having the opportunity to receive feedback as well as collaborate with other artists. I think it’s beautiful to see the artists in our society embrace themselves, release their inhibitions and create the beautiful art I see emerging in Kuwait. What do you do when you’re not busy working on one of your creative projects? I’m either on my way to the cinema to watch a movie I’ve been waiting to see for while or catching up with family and friends. One of my favorite things to do is watch movies with the people I love, even though most of

[...Continued]

Dishdasha the time it’s me forcing them to watch a horror movie that I’ve been too scared to watch alone. Living in New York has also given me so many opportunities to always have something new and interesting to do, and with the help of my absolutely crazy, amazing friends I always find myself doing some crazy activity when I am not outside shooting. Where do you see yourself in five years? I never have a solid answer for this question, but I do know one thing for sure: Whatever I end up doing will definitely involve creativity and innovation. The ultimate goal is to be working for myself, but up until then, I’m so excited to be collaborating with other artists or companies to create content, it is absolutely sensational to combine the creative energy of individuals that share similar passions. For more on Abdullah Alsaleh, follow him on Instagram @Iambooda_ or visit www.iambooda.com.

Midas

FROM TRASH TO TREASURE

Getting to know Capsule Queen Mariska Nell by bazaar staff

We all know that almost wistful feeling when it comes to throwing away pretty packaging. But really, why should we keep that beautiful little box our gourmet tea came in, or the funky printed tag that was attached to your new sweater? You don’t really need that junk, do you? What if you found a way to preserve it by turning it into functional art – that’s a win, win, win – isn’t it? That’s clearly what South African-born and Dubai-based artist/designer Mariska Nell was thinking when she immersed herself in the ultimate Nespresso capsule saving project by creating a lamp out of 913 pods. “I started by collecting and cleaning my own pods for the first few months and realized that I would need a lot more if I wanted to create something exquisite. I contacted friends, family and companies around Dubai using Nespresso and in about 3 months I had enough pods to create my very first "Coffee Addiction Lamp" made from 913 pods.” And as she still does regular pickups around Dubai to maintain her supply, it’s clear that the DSSA (Design School of South Africa) alumna has a knack for turning recyclables into something beautiful to look at, or even use. What prompted your love affair with art, and what made you decide to make it part of your everyday life? Art has always been very much part of me. My mother would teach crafts as I was growing up, so I was always in her studio, painting whatever I could find or create. After completing my studies, I continued to paint a few pieces a year, mainly as gifts or to fill our walls. What draws you toward making art out of household and recyclable items? The environment is something that is very close to my heart, and reusing items that would have ended up in a landfill gives me a sense of accomplishment. I know that I have given these items a second chance in life, and at the same time contributed to bettering our environment a little bit. What’s the greatest piece you’ve ever designed? That is a very hard question, as I love all my pieces. But, two pieces in my new collection ("Coffee Addiction Lamp" and "Reuse, Recycle, Rehumanize") are very near and dear to my heart. The painting I did in memory of my late father; (“I’ll Always Have Someone Watching 32

[Continued...]

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Over Me”) makes the list as well. I also created two pieces that I have donated to charity. “On Route To Uhuru” was part of a silent auction for Warriors for Willow to raise funds for research to find a cure for MSD while, “Every Drop Counts” is a piece that is part of a Surge event to raise funds to invest in communities through safe water and sanitation solutions. What kind of stories do your artworks tell? The majority of my pieces tell stories of my travels and the people I see and meet along the journey. I always have a camera close, to capture moments that touch me. I then use these photographs to narrate the stories through my art. I have also completed a few commission pieces where I narrate stories that are dear to my clients by turning their family memories into works of art. Companies also ask me to create art that represents their core values. Who or what inspires you? Travel! I have always been fascinated with traveling. I feel so enriched every time I visit a new destination and am able to experience how the local people live, their beauty, love, ambitions and how they protect their siblings, families and their nation. It is in such moments that I feel inspiration: Like the little girl I photographed on our farm with her cupcake, the beautiful woman behind “Reuse, Recycle, Rehumanize“ and my husband while roaming the streets of Havana. I am also inspired to create art for philanthropic people and organizations. I also often visit other artists in their studios as they continually inspire me and I hope that I would be an inspiration to an artist out there as well. Do you think that in the future, most design pieces on the market will be made from recycled items? The hopeful side of me is screaming YES. I personally hope to contribute to increasing this practice, and amazingly, lots of companies, cafes and restaurants are joining me in this effort as well. This December, I will be exhibiting at WILD Coffee in Salmiya, Kuwait. This is an effort to increase awareness around recycling and show more coffee connoisseurs the beautiful artwork that can be created from coffee capsules. Clients who commission work from me sometimes bring their own sentimental pieces they could have thrown away. What I am doing is only a drop, if we all took part, we could create a recycling ocean. It’s a matter of asking, “How can I help to reduce, reuse and recycle?” Mariska Nell will be exhibiting her art in Kuwait. Experience her unique creations this month at WILD Coffee in Salmiya. Follow @WILD.Kwt on Instagram for updates. Visit Mariska’s website for more on her work at www.designbymariska.com. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube: @DesignbyMariska. 34

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truth or dare

YOU YOTTA HAVE IT

A positive path to freedom of expression with Ayaat Morgan By bazaar staff

Imagine Meghan Markle’s megawatt smile, and multiply that by one hundred. This is how I am greeted from across the room by Ayaat Morgan. With a confident stride, she marches forward with her hand outstretched to shake mine in genuine welcome. I expect nothing less from someone sporting the title of Divisional Marketing Manager– Corporate Marketing and Customer Care, this is the job. As we sit down to discuss her role and outlook on life, it is a pleasant revelation to discover a friendlier and much more flamboyant character than typically fits the corporate mold. “I dress and talk this way, the person I am outside is exactly how I am at work. Marketing is all about art and being artistic. There’s sales and strategizing but all of this is not achieved if you don’t try to stand out…putting in a little glimpse of artistry makes all the difference.” It took five years of study at Egypt’s University of Helwan, and slogging overnight at a telesales and marketing job to finance the life of this Graphic Design student. After attaining her degree, it was her force of personality, however, that landed Ayaat her first real role in marketing and PR within the film industry. She found herself promoting the international distribution of arthouse films Asmaa and Cairo 678. This meant traveling, including to the US, and the timing of the Egyptian revolution meant the films garnered even more attention than expected. The sensitive subject of the award-winning 678 is still relevant today considering the #METOO movement, and Ayaat has herself used the hashtag. It is not surprising that these films are “media with a message”, as everything Ayaat does seems to have a message or point behind it, although she stresses, “I didn’t become an open-minded, empathetic person until after years of traveling and volunteering, being exposed to cultures and less fortunate people. Not being judgmental is something you need to learn if you are not brought up in that environment.” She reveals that through her life experiences she has found all people to be the same. “We all want the same things in life: love, stability, peace.” “I feel like when you start thinking beyond yourself, you become a happier person. [Paradoxically] you are a lot more fulfilled when it’s not about you. When you extend love and kindness to another human being, even if it’s just a smile, it makes such a difference.” I ask where does she see herself in the future, and for a time there’s no answer. This is because Ayaat, nicknamed “Yotta”, lives so much in the moment. This makes complete sense because it is not possible to truly embrace what you are doing now, 36

if you’re constantly thinking about the future. But then she does effuse, “I want to keep marketing! I love it, I love it, I love it!” And how does she juxtapose this immense sense of humanity and working in this industry, one which people view with such suspicion? “When I practice marketing I am honest, you can never be forced to lie. It is not something that anyone can ever make you do.” There is definitely a link between the development of society’s voice and the development of art, music, and culture. Ayaat is an artist and has always been interested in art. A writer and occasional singer, she also acts and is preparing for a brand new musical debuting this March, as well as a role in an upcoming Shakespearean production in October 2018 with One World Actors. When asked what does she get out of acting she immediately responds, “Freedom. To express myself.” Over the last year there have been many personal changes for Ayaat and it is life as an endless journey of discovery that she is experiencing now. It must be difficult to be a person who has this immense sense of humanity toward man, and yet finds herself (as we all are) in a position of being judged by other people. “It’s like, people think that with [modern] art, it’s all over the place but actually you need a deep

foundation of knowledge, training and understanding to be able to think beyond the normal.” I personally think that Ayaat has taken the last 29 years to build this foundation of knowledge, and now she is ready to branch out on her own to break society’s seemingly unnecessary rules of constraint that little bit more. “Everything needs to make sense to me” she explains. “You should action your [beliefs]. Thoughts lead to words which lead to action. People are always asking me, ‘but what can I do to make a difference?’ And I tell them, just your thoughts are enough. Keep your thoughts and energy positive.” That’s a yotta positive energy.

TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE How would your mother describe you in one word? CRAAAAZYYYY! How would you describe your mother in one word? Queen. What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked? Oh, so you ride camels and live in tents? (LA- 2011)

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done? Decided to spend an entire day picking up stray cats in the street that were in bad shape – I ended up sleeping in the corner of my room that day with little to no access to my own home. What is your theme song? Growing up - Michael Jackson’s “Black & White”. When in zen – Abdul Halim Hafiz’s “Ahwak”. Recently addicted to – Portugal. The Man’s “Feel It Still.” What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious–or Muse?! Whatever is easier to pronounce! Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location? Anywhere where I can sink my feet in the sand, munch on delicious food all day, learn a new language and enjoy a rich and colorful culture – INDIA. Maybe Bali, or Sicily – who knows? What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind? “There is a voice that doesn’t use words. Listen.” – Rumi.

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in? I’m smiling as I’m reading this question – monkey? Nah, more like a husky dog. What do you miss about your childhood? Laughing and playing without a care in the world!

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place? To teach our young that diversity is beautiful; to understand that there is unity in diversity and strength in our differences. To master goodwill and lead by example. To share the nationality of humanity and solidarity in peace. To always strive to do good and speak kindness.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to? I wouldn’t, as I grew older I gradually fell in love with the meaning of my name.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you? I love making people smile and laugh, people who know me well are always in for a crazy ride!

How would you describe your handshake in one word? Light and friendly.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…” Poetry, acting, boxing and Molokhiya.

What is the toughest part of your character? My inability to accept 'no' for an answer or succumbing to the status quo. In other words, I can get pretty stubborn! Who is your favourite historical figure? Three come to mind - Rumi, Ghandi and Edgar Allan Poe. What in the world do you least desire? Those who do nothing while witnessing injustice.

Follow Ayaat on Instagram @yottamorgan and on LinkedIn as Ayaat Morgan. Photography by Sanaa Khaled.

BE AFRAID OF FEAR

Recommended track: “Suduaya - Empty Your Mind (feat. Amin)” By George Tarabay

This piece is personal but it will resonate with most. It won’t be funny, but it will be steeped in irony, the irony of life. Throughout the course of our human timeline, be it evolution, be it growth, or whatever connotation of advancement you may want to use, progress was always a direct product of the marriage between fear and the confrontation of fear. Fear, in and of itself, is a crippling notion. It’s scary, downright overwhelming, and it shakes in us the value of our most precious possession: existence. Whether you consider existence in its literal meaning or existence in a comfortable mental realm, the equation always remains the same: Find what scares you, and do it. Confronting fear is by far one of the best tools we were blessed with. Should you learn how to master it, the sky is the limit. We are fearful creatures, akin to every breathing creature that shares this earth with us, but in our fear, we often miss the opportunity to grow beyond our own vision. We have a negative overview of opportunity and prospects. How is it okay that we make statements such as “But, what if I fail?” and not “But, what if I succeed?” How is it okay that, we are constantly hindered by our petty fears, without developing a greater fear of missing out because of this fear? Yes: be afraid of your fear crippling you. But be so afraid to the point where the only thing you can do is fight it. Rid yourself of contingency, because it keeps fear alive, it feeds your fear and grows it, because the deeper you dive, the bigger the contingency, hence the more fearful you become. Yes again, I am saying be illogical, be foolish, bend yourself beyond what you think you can tolerate. Great things will happen. It’s really that simple. I mean it. I know it. I can prove it. I was broke and broken, I was in shambles, I was laughed at, I was told I am crazy to pursue “passion” in this day and age. I was more broke, more broken, I was in more shambles, yet I laughed at myself. But throughout it all, I maintained two qualities: my consistency in my deliverables and effort, and my tenacity to want more, the more I was told "no". How did I pull it together? I hired fear in my plan: Afraid I might not do a good job? I prepared extra and spent nights visualizing the product 38

CMY

Photo by Ricardo Gomez Angel on Unsplash Afraid I will fail? I spent nights deciding what items I would sell first to survive (not contingency, but realistically) Afraid that someone might deny me what I want? I worked extra hard. I let nothing bring me down, including myself. I would often silence myself because I was being fearful. I would push beyond the boundaries of my own capability and mental health, and every single time it broke me, I learned to piece myself together and become stronger. I had fear, but I tamed it, I gave my brain no time to process it, constantly making moves and working hard. This is where I’ll share the lesson I learned: Do what you fear most and either you succeed or you will learn how to overcome it the next time you want to attack it again. Fear is a cowardly product of our selves

trying to preserve itself. Drop it, what’s the best that can happen? Every awesome thing you ever wanted. What’s the other worst that can happen? You can re-adopt it and lead your life as it was. In 2014, I erased fear from my system. It’s 2017, I literally have everything I ever wanted for myself and this statement is beyond finances: I have peace of mind, confidence, potential and most importantly courage to face any challenge. Fear is unnecessary, I dare you to prove me wrong…unless you’re scared of taking me up on my challenge. “Stay Foolish, Stay Hungry” Whole Earth Catalogue. George Tarabay is a local comedian and marketing expert. For his latest updates, follow him on Instagram: @GeorgeTarabay. For more comic relief, check out George on Facebook.com/Georgethecomic.

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PLAN B

By Dr Susannah Joy Schuilenberg

This week, while cruising my Facebook feed, I noticed a friend had posted, “Not feeling good about a decision.” No explanation, no context. The comments which followed were a mix of advice, commiseration, and a few, ‘Just move on.’ The majority of the comments were a variation of, “Then change it.” The post actually caused me to pause and reflect about the decisions we make. In big and small ways along a continuum from “Doesn’t Matter” to “Life Changing,” we make decisions every day. ‘Do I have a Caramel Macchiato today, or a Toffee Nut Latte?’ ‘Will I wear the black shoes or my black boots?’ ‘Do I take the Bentley this morning or the Lamborghini?’ (I totally made that one up…my choices would be, ‘Do I walk or ride my bike?’) These are the minutiae of our daily decisions. While we often agonize over making decisions for fear of making a mistake, the reality is that very few decisions we will make in life are final. Have you ever thought about that? Really, there are very few choices we will make in life which cannot, in some way, be revised, revisited, revamped, reworked, revoked, or reversed. This is what makes life interesting. If we really believed that we can modify, or alter the way that life is going, how would we live? If we’re not committed to this option or this choice for the rest of our days, how much more adventurous might we be? 40

Right now – think about a decision you’ve been putting off because it feels difficult, or too big, or too permanent. What keeps you from making a choice? Do you need help with the decision-making process itself? Try this… 1. Do an If/Then list. “If I choose ___________ then… what? What will happen? Be detailed, be thorough. The possible benefits and the possible catastrophes. 2. Make a Plan B. Write yourself an ‘escape clause.’ A “get-out-of-jail-free” date that you keep in your back pocket in the event that the new thing sucks. If the decision is one that you regret, you know there’s an end to it – a point at which you will ‘Exit Stage Left.’ Plan for this contingency. 3. Use a timer. Set the timer for an hour or two. Consider all parts of the problem and then when the timer rings, make a decision. Implement it. That process applies to pretty much every decision you’ll ever make. What fear is keeping you from making a decision to start/stop doing something? There are really only a few fears, common to humanity which, when distilled, all equal “insecurity.” a) What will other people think? b) What if I fail? c) What if I don’t have what I need? d) What if… poverty? …pain? …shame? … embarrassment? These fears do not a good life make. I’m sure I’ve used this quote before, but it’s worth saying again. “Courage is not the

absence of fear, but action in spite of it.” If you really believed the decisions you make are not written in stone, what would you decide? We have one life. Read that again. We get ONE life. This is not a dress rehearsal for something else. There’s no spare in the trunk. What will you regret not doing? If you were planning to live forever, I have bad news. Your life will be significantly shorter than that. Imagine; What if you learned that your life will be much shorter than you expected? How would you make decisions then? What would no longer be important? What would become very important? Insha’Allah, that won’t happen... but how would your perspective shift if it did? What would happen to those fears then? What decisions would fall completely off your list? What decisions would suddenly become vital? If this opportunity turns out to be less than expected, at what point will you give yourself permission to revise, revoke, rework, or retool your original decision? What would your life look like if you lived like ‘Plan B’ is a viable option? Think about it, then Go.Do.The.Thing.

Dr Susannah is a leading psychologist, registered professional counsellor and Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling based in Canada. Follow @DrSusannah on Twitter and Instagram for more information and her latest updates.

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UNRAVELLING A MASTERPIECE By bazaar staff

An interview with Team Abeeha

Some great sounds have been pumping out of Kuwait’s sound system! It’s been said time and time again that the local music scene is expanding to great lengths that we’ve never thought we’d see before, and each time we see something great come from the local artists, we’re blown away. This is exactly what happened when we first saw DJ Outlaw’s latest mix, Abeeha, the fun tune that was a result of a monumental collaboration between some of Kuwait’s finest musicians: Carol Souki, Daffy, Homoud Nasser, and Flipperachi.

These names aren’t unfamiliar to anybody who keeps up with Kuwait’s music scene, but for the sake of introductions, we’ll let you in on their brilliant backgrounds. Carol (Coco), sports a Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance and Music Therapy from Berklee College of Music, and brings her spicy Venezuelan flavor to the mix. She is widely known for her impressive voice range along with countless collaborations in both Kuwait and Lebanon at various private and public events and music festivals. Flipperachi, (AKA: Flipp), has been with Outlaw productions since 2008, where he decided to take music more seriously and put his written lyrics to action. Since then, he has collaborated with so many artists on a local, regional and even international level, with even the likes of Run DMC’s DMC! And then there’s Daffy – if you grew up in Kuwait during the early 2000s, this man needs no introduction. Coined “the King of Hip Hop” by reputation, the Army of One alum joined Outlaw Productions full time in 2014 and his already impressive musical resume has been taken to the other level with fun tracks such as “Shino Al Kalam Hatha”, more collaborations with Coco and Flipp, and even working with one of his musical idols, Miami’s Khalid Al Randi. And Homoud Nasser, a legend in his own right, is the key element in “Abeeha”. Based off of the Kuwaiti musician’s hit song “Mathmoon”, his collaboration with the three artists has been countlessly described as “an honor” and an “unforgettable experience”. “Abeeha” is a project that showcases the talents of these unique individuals. Along with the original samplings of “Mathmoon”, each collaborator wrote their own verses to add in their own touch. But what is it like, being behind the scenes of a musical development such as a music video – especially for a hit tune that we personally believe is going to make big, internationally? Homoud, Coco, Flipp and Daffy were eager to give their opinions. What inspired you to collaborate with the other artists on this particular song, Abeeha? Daffy: I love remaking classic records that I grew up with, so it was great getting this chance to collaborate with Homoud Nasser to create a track based off of his hit “Mathmoon”. Of course, no one could do what Flipp does on a track, so it’s a given that he would be on it! Coco’s Latin flare spices up the track and adds something extra to it. How does each individual artist featured contribute to making this song and video great? Flipp: We’re all bringing something different to the table with our flows, sound, delivery, and characters. At the end of the day, that’s what made this track different. All the feedback we’ve been getting about this collaboration is insane! Coco: Dedication, creativity, patience, and having fun in creating such a great number

Flipperachi is what is making it shine. Homoud Nasser places his romantic melodic Arabic lines, Daffy created a dance move, beat, lyrics, and overall groove that motivated us to want to work on this track, and Flipp’s smooth blends between Bahraini and English slang adds the element of fun and familiarity for people in the region. Also, my Latina touch provides an international sound and simple, repetitive lyrics that people can sing along with. Can you explain the context of the video? Daffy: This is where we completely let loose and went crazy, which is always the best part! In the video, we’re just trying to get the girl’s attention and having fun with our characters. We’re talking to her in Arabic and she’s talking back in Spanish, not understanding what we’re saying. This looks like it was a lot of fun to make! How was the overall experience of creating the video? Homoud: It was such a new experience for me, but it was great. We all had so much fun shooting it. Flipp: It was a very light video to shoot! This time though, I was shooting my scenes in Bahrain while the rest were in Kuwait rather than all of us

shooting together. It would’ve been even more fun if we shot in one place! What’s the most difficult thing about this industry? Flipp: Being in this part of the world where the industry hasn’t yet developed for the type of music we make, the challenge is to pave a new way and build something different. We always try to come up with new ideas, and sometimes the most difficult challenge is topping what we’d done in the previous project. But regardless of geographic location, it’s a tough industry overall in terms of staying relevant. We’ve seen many great artists disappear over the years for failing to keep up with how the industry moves. What does the production of this video, and other musical ventures say to you about Kuwait’s current stance with the local music scene? Daffy: I’ve noticed that Kuwait has been very accepting of new ideas and new styles of music from local artists. People’s support for us specifically has been crazy. We understand what people want, and we try to deliver that in every project we put out. Coco: Thanks to the movement that Daffy and Outlaw productions has established over the past two years with professional quality videos and tracks, [Continued...]

it’s enabling the music scene to boom and be recognized throughout the Middle East and the West! Also, since we have been performing our own original material locally and internationally, it helps to showcase the amazing talents that are available in our region. How do you feel like Kuwait has grown musically over the past two decades? Daffy: The scene is definitely growing in Kuwait and the region as a whole, and it’s only going to keep growing. I see fresh, young faces starting to create, which is great. It’s the only way we can build a real industry over time. Homoud: Music is like the stock market. The stocks go up and down sometimes and it’s always a risk – but the clever thing to do is to find what’s new and introduce it to the audience to keep them interested. Flipp: Whether it’s Kuwait or Bahrain or the region in general, there’s been a lot of growth in the artists that are around and the art they deliver. I’m impressed with how far along we’ve come as a scene especially in the past few years. There’s a lot more variety in the type of music that’s being put out from local and regional artists, and it’s making us become more and more internationally recognized. Coco: A lot of independent artists are rising producing their own material and collaborating with other local talents to produce a variety of genres such as Blues, Bahri Jazz music, Hip Hop and RnB, and currently new talents stepping out and making Trap music. It’s been a challenge since unfortunately the scene is not always supported, but for the past five years there’s been a growing need for live music and now we have platforms to perform live. Radio stations in Kuwait also play a big role in exposing and promoting local talents and talents around the region.

Coco

Do you envision collaborating with each other in the near future? Flipp: Definitely, we’re always making music together. It’s what sets us apart and makes us different. Daffy: Flipp and I are working on the new album and new singles that are coming out soon. There’s an album project from Coco too, so stay tuned for that. Coco: I personally love working with this team because we understand one another musically, and help one another create new material, promote one another’s work and collaborate whenever possible in various projects around the region. As they say when words fail music speaks and that’s how deep our musical connection is. Homoud: I’m currently working on my own projects, including a new music video and a commercial, launching a week before the New Year – but, I would also love to recreate something with this amazing group in the future!

Abeeha was mixed by DJ Outlaw, directed and produced by Daffy, and shot by Jassim Al Harban, Jaan Al Balushi, and Khalid Al Khulaifi. It can be found on YouTube. Follow the musicians on Instagram for more updates! Daffy @kingdaff11, Flipp @flipperachay, Homoud Nasser @homoudnasser and Carol Souki (Coco) @carolsoukimusic.

Daffy

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WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE TO HAVE ROBOT COWORKERS? A glimpse into the realities of working side by side with technology By Gwen Moran

You already have an idea of what the future of work looks like because you are likely already working with bots, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. They are increasingly being incorporated into everything from work stations to websites to cloud platforms. But while the U.S. is leading the world in robotics investment, “There is clear evidence that points toward robotic automation in many cases being a complement for human labor, rather than a direct substitute,” says David Whitaker, managing economist at the Centre for Economic and Business Research. FORM AND FUNCTION Many will be integrated into work stations and peripherals, as well as various cloud-based platforms says Marco Perry, a robotics expert, futurist, and founder of Brooklyn-based design and invention firm PENSA. SAP research director Kai Goerlich says most of these “assistants” will likely be integrated into devices you already use with seamless interfaces. “We will have more algorithms, helping us do tedious office work. So, basically, tax analysis, image analysis, comparisons, statistics, etc.” He says that machines will likely evolve to rely more on voice recognition and less on keyboards. So, for example, give your device a voice command, such as scheduling a meeting or sending a document with a specific person or group, and the algorithm will exchange the necessary information with the target’s algorithm to get the task done. That functionality is going to save time and improve the way we work, says futurist Nikolas Badminton. By the time you sit at your workstation, your tech assistant will likely have organized scheduling and tasks in anticipation of the day ahead. ‘You’re probably going to walk into an office and your system’s been churning over the last couple of hours considering what’s been going on in business, your role, your job, what you need to do that day, and probably offer up several ideas about the right direction of what to do,” he says. In cases where a personal touch is still needed, robots can still be helpful. NEW SKILLS NEEDED While the concern about the jobs robots will take is well-documented, Paul R. Daugherty, Accenture’s chief technology and innovation officer, says that the proliferation of these technologies will create new roles, for which workers will need new skills. “We summarize those as trainers, explainers, and sustainers,” he says. 46

Photo by Alex Knight on Unsplash

Trainers will include new jobs to train machines in artificial intelligence. (Think IBM’s Watson and its ability to answer questions and find answers through data analysis.) He says that a good example is people who are working on chatbots and virtual agents to help consumers interact with companies. Explainers and sustainers are new jobs that involve explaining AI and how it’s working and maintaining or improving AI systems over time. This will create greater demand for people with technology skills, but will also create greater demand for soft skills, such as empathy trainers to help machines deal more effectively with people and who can analyze the needs of customers to ensure machines are effective in dealing with them. “I would predict that five years out we’ll probably have a bigger shortage for those types of skills around, the softer skills around how can we shape the experience for people using machines and that will be a bigger skill deficit than the hard-core technology skills,” he says. Most of all, employees must stay open to learning new ways of working with technology. NEW CHALLENGES FOR MANAGERS AND HR Goldstein believes that robots and AI in the workplace will change human resources dramatically and create new challenges related to human and robot management. And while there will be a temptation to

automate everything, the more sensitive or complex a situation, the more likely people will want to deal with an actual person, so it’s critical to consider the context in which you use robots, AI, and machine learning and determine if it’s really the best solution for the situation, Perry adds. “If you completely automate that, people feel helpless,” he says. Frustration can also be a problem. For example, if you have a sensitive problem with your health insurance and can’t get anyone on the phone to help you navigate the challenge empathetically, you’re likely to feel a loss of control as well as feeling as if you’re not valued by the company, Perry says. Such a dynamic can alienate valued employees. In addition, companies are going to need to take steps to protect workers’ privacy, Goldstein says. Just as smart home assistants like Google Home or Amazon Echo are “listening” all the time— monitoring ambient noise so they can be activated by “wake words,” office robots and machines will act similarly. This holds the potential for companies to inadvertently capture sensitive information about employees, she says. How that information will be used and protected are among the emerging issues companies must face. As for job loss, Badminton isn’t convinced it’s going to be dire. History tells us that when innovation occurs, new jobs are created, he says.

fantasy world

K-TOWN HIP-HOP JAM By Ashley Alleluya

The best parties tend to follow a known format - there is never a set guest list. Maybe most importantly, the best parties take their own time to get going - a slow build at first, the party takes on a life of its own only much later once everyone has loosened up, listened to some good music and found delicious food somewhere around. All these elements came together last month at the Shahad Tower, for Kuwait's Hip-Hop anniversary - and boy, this turned out to be some party! I arrived a little after the start time and saw that the place was still warming up. Many among Kuwait's young, artistic crowd were walking in along with me, taking their seats and mingling with their neighbors as MC Hussain Al-Shammary or Slash as he's better known, surveyed the proceedings. Kuz Store had their booth set up in one corner, welcoming the attendees with smiles, jokes and customized handwritten nametags. DJ Boiskout was in charge of the music for the night, and he kept up a steady set of music playing for the crowd. It was easy to spot the dancers for the night - they were the ones who couldn't keep still, breaking into impromptu jigs early on. It seemed like this gathering was going to be a mellow one, at best. "I may have nothing to write about," I told a friend at one point, but I should have known better. We broke off a little while later for a quick food break to munch on food from Rockhouse Sliders, and once we came back, the place was suddenly different. More crowded and now crackling with anticipation, Slash began the evening by introducing five members from the Kuwait Poets' Society. First up was Joumana, who presented a piece she had written to cope with her identity struggle. In strong, rhythmic bursts, she spoke of feelings that reflected her inner conflict and the one she faces while trying to justify her duality to others. "Explain, Joumana, explain" was a line that she repeated throughout the poem, each time with more intensity. Mohmamed Hasnain then stepped up, bringing with him a poem that beautifully explored the territory of finding light when you're lost. "Moonlight" was fluidly written, stirringly performed and ended on a note that was both melancholic and hopeful at the same time. Then came Tasneem, who presented a powerful rendering of the mindset of one who sees that she's been a puppet and is now able to cut those strings off. She rhymed about the awakening, the hypocrisy, the anxiety and the empowerment that encapsulates the feeling of breaking free from a cage that society has boxed a person into - it resonated strongly with me. With Fares Al-Shammari's turn, the poetry session became romantic and woeful. His was a 48

poem about the moments and thoughts that follow a breakup - the resentment, the guilt, the regret and the resolve. "I wish I was better," he began. "I wish I wasn't who I am," he continued. With every cadence, he took the room on an emotional journey; exploring with us the pain that is felt on both sides, the flaws that make our relationships so volatile, the acceptance that even when love fails, both people remain fundamentally the same. "I wish we were better," he ended with, to a beat of silence followed by loud applause and cheering. Finally, it was Mohammed Al-Ajmi who ended the rhyming session with his existential piece on the process of being a poet. To me, the tone of his poetry rung almost modernly biblical, with his comparison of a poet to a prophet. Through his perspective, the poet is bestowed with great power (and great responsibility). He who takes it upon himself the task of proclaiming, affecting and bringing about change. Evocative and smooth, he managed to convey the message that poets were essentially "the prophets of hope and misery" - a loud message for someone with a soft voice. A session as emotionally heavy as this one deserved another break, which we gladly took,

and then returned for an evening of music, dance and singing. By then, Slash had gathered all the B-Boys and breakers from the room onto the stage, and together they engaged the crowd in what was probably the most fun part of the night. With DJ Boiskout at the helm, this turned into a session of free styling, with every dancer playing off the other's moves. The room had turned into one that was suddenly lively, energetic and happy, with every move being welcomed with loud cheers and whistles. By the time the open-mic session with such talented people as Nadine, Ashab, Traffik and Grizzly had begun, you could sense how dramatically the mood had shifted. What started as a slow formal gathering had quickly escalated into the coolest party on the block. DJ Boiskout and Kabbani's showcase at the end of the night then seemed like the perfect way to end this party - at its peak, with everyone having a whale of a time. Originally published on Kingdome.co. You can follow Kingdome on Facebook and Soundcloud @KingdomeMagazine, Instagram @Kingdome.co, Twitter @KingdomeCo and on YouTube: Kingdome Magazine. Photography by Salman Moghaddam.

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AN ENCHANTED EVENING Style resolutions by Harvey Nichols Kuwait for the holiday season By bazaar staff

As the end of the year rolls around, the holiday season is among us. Filled with friendship, reflection and cheer, as well as amazing fashion, it’s easy to see how it can only be described as a time of enchantment. It’s a time to feel filled with beauty on both the inside and outside, adding to the magic that is the tradition of ringing in a new Gregorian year.

The thing about this enchanted period, however is that you are obliged to look flawless throughout. Not for others, but for yourself! A lot of thought should go into creating the perfect look to end the year with. Because, as the old saying goes, the way you ring in the New Year is a window to the way the rest of your year will be. To avoid any errors in judgment, Harvey Nichols is setting a list of resolutions to help you find your enchanted look from head to toe, making sure you strut into 2018 right. RESOLUTION 1: OWN WHO YOU ARE Makeup should be the star on top of the tree, so to speak! But, everyone wears their style a little differently, and so here are some of the personas we feel pose as a guideline for you to find your perfect look.

Naturally Chic Romantic Diva Femme Fatale Ideal for those who tend to stay within the parameters of natural makeup application techniques. To shine without shining, check for nude colors and preferably matte textures. Must-have picks: Face: La Prairie – Moisturizing cream Laura Mercier – Foundation Ivory Beige NARS – Blush in Love Joy Eyes: Sisley – Sisleya moist under-eye NARS – Concealer Medium 2 Lancôme – Mascara Monsieur Big Anastasia – Modern Renaissance Palette Lips: Dolce & Gabbana – Honey Gloss

For the dreamer who doesn’t have to try too hard, the romantic diva is feminine with deep contrasts and shaded with contours. Must-have picks: Face: La Prairie – moisturizing cream Clarins – Double serum moisturizer NARS- Foundation in Lights Fiji Laura Mercier – Loose powder in Translucent Eyes: Sisley – Sisleya moist under eye NARS -Concealer Medium 2 & Biscuit Lancôme – Mascara Monsieur Big Giorgio Armani – eyeshadow #10 Anastasia – Venice eyeshadow NARS – Pasiphae Laura Mercier – Golden Mosaic Illamasqua- Gel Liner Anastasia- Tinted brow Gel in Granite Lips: Yves Saint Laurent – Rouge Couture 222

This femme knows what she wants and goes for it, no matter what! Her look is sleek and iconic, ready to tackle whatever challenges come her way. Must-have picks: Face: Clarins – Double Serum Moisturizer NARS- Foundation – All Day Luminous Weightless in Santa Fe Laura Mercier – Translucent setting powder Giorgio Armani – Blush from Runway collection SS’17 Eyes: Sisley – Sisleya moist under eye NARS -Concealer Medium 2 Christian Dior – Dior Show Mascara Anastasia – Golden Copper Lips: Anastasia- Astan

Inner Rebel

Her edginess sets her apart from the crowd. The Inner rebel stands out, and has a certain kind of authority. Must-haves: Face: Clarins – Double Serum Moisturizer NARS – Foundation – All Day Luminous Weightless in Santa Fe Laura Mercier – Translucent setting powder NARS – Amour Blush Eyes: Sisley – Sisleya Moist Under Eye NARS – Concealer Medium 2 Dolce & Gabbana – Innocence Gloss Anastasia – Modern Renaissance – Love Letter Laura Mercier – Pink Mosaic Illamsqua – White Pure Pigment Lips: Givenchy – 02 Dolce & Gabbana – Innocence Gloss

Super-natural

Truly herself, the supernatural is one step beyond confident and prefers the simplicity of being in her own skin. This look is more comfortable with tinted moisturizers than foundation. Must-haves: Face: Clarins – BB cream Lips: Sisley – Phyto Lip-twist

Party girl

Sparkle, sparkle and sparkle! Party girl exudes energy and happiness. This look embraces metallic colors and shiny textures. Must-haves: Face: Clarins – Double Serum Moisturizer NARS- Foundation – All Day Luminous Weightless in Santa Fe Laura Mercier – Translucent setting powder NARS – Love Joy Eyes: Sisley – Sisleya moist under eye Nars – Concealer Medium 2 Anastasia – Modern Renaissance Yves Saint Laurent – The Shock Mascara Illamsqua – White Pure Pigment Lips: Anastasia – Astan

[Continued...]

RESOLUTION 2: FIND BALANCE WITH FABRIC This winter collection has been emulating enchantment with velvet fabric. This season, velvet has been our friend, reminding us of traditional holiday gear worn regally in the days of yore. But don’t forget, that velvet must be worn as one bold statement piece, or in little details and accessories. RESOLUTION 3: BE MINDFUL OF WHAT YOU WEAR These tips are useful in helping you achieve the face of your perfect holiday look, but don’t forget that with each outfit comes responsibility to match to your makeup accordingly. We don’t mean literally, of course, but rather use makeup as a way to compliment the colors of your outfit in a way that’s practical while being innovative. Be mindful that this season’s ever-so trendy burgundy, midnight blue and bottle green colors are each appropriate for different occasions during the holiday season. The burgundies range, but its base is a rich color great for everyday use and casual affairs. Blue is seen as confident and royal, making a strong statement when entering a room. Green, is stunning and elegant, and ideal for formal affairs – but is attention drawing, yet natural. All in all, each hue is bold in its way, and can speak for itself without your overdoing all components. RESOLUTION 4: EMBRACE THE FAB YOU Finishing a lap around the sun is truly an enchanting feeling, and being able to celebrate that feat with family and friends is a special blessing – so have fun with it and be fabulous! Rock your style, and don’t be afraid to add a little bit of entertainment features like glittery eye shadow or fantastic shoes! After all, as we mentioned earlier, the way you ring in the New Year is the way the rest of your 2018 will be. Kick it off with confidence, and we know you’ll be just fine.

Harvey Nichols Kuwait is located at Grand Avenue – The Avenues. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @HarveyNicholsKuwait for more information and updates.

[...Continued]

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POWER DRESSING FOR THE PARTY H&M’s Holiday 2017 Womenswear Collection By bazaar staff

December is all about gatherings with friends and family celebrations over the holiday season and this means dressing up for all these occasions. If you do not want to be seen sporting the same look twice then you have your pick of strong, statement pieces this season at H&M. It is not about cozy contentment, this season the holiday collection gives you a confident, powerful woman at play with winter fashion. Embrace the pairing of a sheer tulle skirt with winter boots and a slouchy, bell sleeved turtleneck. Celebrate the mix and match elements of patent leather and a deeply plush playful pelage. From glamorous new goth to punky après-ski princess, H&M’s Holiday 2017 womenswear focuses on texture. High-shine, faux fur, glitter, mesh, lurex, glittering rhinestones, fluffy knits and jacquards, whichever finish you favor, there is a look for you. “While we’re playing with two distinct personas for the holiday collections, they both share an uber femme attitude – figure-flattering silhouettes, a confidence to mix and match statement fabrics and a stylish strut. It’s power dressing for the party!” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Head of Design and Creative Director. The punky après-ski princess is not afraid to wear head-to-toe red incorporating different textiles and finishes in the final look. Perhaps a puff ball skirt teamed with a top featuring ruched sleeves worn with red high shine booties. Add some soft white, silver and black if head to toe scarlet is too scary for you! Adding to the hint of the early 1980s reference, in the punk theme you can find gorgeous high-waisted, Royal Stewart homage plaid trousers and stirruped ski-inspired stretchy pants. Other key items in the Holiday collection include a balloon-sleeve sweater that comes in your choice of 3 colors, a sheer maxi-length tulle skirt, a sparkly knit jumper and a full skirted gypsy dress with gold bead embellishments in the shape of stars for extra sparkle. Throw a fuzzy faux fur coat literally over anything this season or go bold with an ultra-shiny hooded puffer jacket in bright red; it’s sporty and sexy at the same time, and thoroughly feminine.

Shop the H&M Holiday collection available in stores today! Follow H&M on Twitter @HMKuwait, Facebook and Instagram @HM. 54

Cacao

BAZAAR TRIES A 5K

‘Twas the best way to start a Saturday

by bazaar staff

‘Tis the season for outdoor activity! And November was the month where charity marathons broke! We had the RunKuwait 5 &10K charity race on November 11th, and Gulf Bank’s 642 Marathon taking place one week later on the 18th. So, with this smorgasbord of philanthropic activity at our fingertips, we decided to get up off our lazy Saturday behinds and do something good for our bodies, minds and souls. (After all, we’re always preaching to you lot to do the same!) So, what do you need to know before partaking in a marathon or run? First, accept your abilities. Know if you’re walking, running, or jogging and respect the pace you’ll be going at. One of our team is a runner, and committed to running the 5K length alongside her Orangetheory Fitness community. Two of us, however, decided to walk it, leisurely – unapologetically, and at our own pace. Now, keep in mind that all marathons tend to start early, and stay true to a trend of taking place on a Saturday. So, waking up on a Saturday morning before 8 a.m. is never ideal, but after our experience, we now know that the benefits to come out of it a few hours later will be truly rewarding. 56

Also, getting to the Run Kuwait village that early in the morning offers a calming drive, but consider this: since a popular spot for marathons is on the Gulf Road, pivotal parts of it may be blocked. This was a factor I hadn’t considered beforehand, and ended up awkwardly finding parking in a semiclose-by location, providing a nice warm-up walk to the venue. After registering and waiting it out with the crowd throughout commencement speeches delivering words of encouragement, and a fun group boosted Zumba warm-up, we were off! Walking a 5K is way easier than I thought it would be. Any number is intimidating once you add the metric kilometer to it, but unbeknownst to our daily knowledge, plenty of us have walked a 5K way more often that we think! You know what it means? Walking from the Scientific Center to Marina Crescent and back makes a 5K. And alternatively, for more heritage-centric walks, a round trip trek from Souq Sharq to Seif Palace also adds up to a 5K (or roughly 10,000 steps on your pedometer!) Walking a 5K was super easy, but we can’t speak for our brave coworker who ran the marathon! At a good ten minutes before we approached our turnaround point, she passed us with focus, form and intent, pushing herself towards the finishing line. And while it took us a perfect hour to conclude our (admittedly, leisurely) stroll, her recorded time

of achievement came in at 32 minutes and 43 seconds! Well done! Overall, our experience ‘walkathoning’ was extremely pleasant. The event hosts are skilled at ensuring their events are extremely well-organized and thoughtfully planned out to every detail. Healthy nourishment tends to be offered, like preactivity bananas, and volunteers stand throughout the marathon/race track handing out bottles of water and acting as cheerleaders to everyone participating. It’s always nice to hear someone pushing you positively to achieve your goal. But lest we forget a little plus to sweeten the deal, a goody bag! Most marathons offer that type of perk upon completion, and it’s always fun to collect on your way out – you never know what you’ll find inside as an enjoyable token for your labor. The post-walk/run feel-good energy was abuzz, giving us a high that only spending time in crisp, fresh early winter air can provide. All in all, it was the perfect way to kick-start our Saturday mornings – and the best part? We all got home by 10 a.m. Except for me, who did Zumba two hours later. That, I don’t recommend.

Did you miss out on both RunKuwait and Gulf Bank’s 642 Marathon in November? Don’t worry! NBK’s annual Walkathon is happening this month! For more information, check out their website at www.nbkwalkathon.com.

Bistro

SAVOUR VENTURES Planting seeds for success By bazaar staff

Day One of the cohort.

Picture it: an idea sprouts, inspiring you to build a business. Part of its path to success requires you to find funding in order for it to take off, but that goal isn’t achieved, and it all crashes and burns. Where did you go wrong? Taking on an entrepreneurial venture requires guidance, perseverance and support. We need validation in order to know that our ideas are special, and truly offer something different to the market: something that makes our product capable of adding value and innovation to local consumers. It’s no secret that Kuwait thrives on its food market, and who knows that better than founder Rashid Sultan, whose 15-plus years in the F&B industry has proven his skill in understanding the way the business works. This level of experience prompted him to launch Savour Ventures: a program inspired by the traditional US accelerator model, designed to help startups get their dreams on track under the umbrella of a mighty team. Established in early 2017, the aptly named Savour Ventures accelerator solely caters to 58

the food industry, from food tech, to agriculture, traditional eateries and all in between. “The program is designed to advance business owners by making them work at over 100% rather than the basic 60% most would be at.” Rashid explains. “What many other entrepreneurs gain in at least one year’s time, we’re helping them achieve it in just two months.” Each term, startup founders are carefully selected in an application process to form Savour’s cohort of the season. The chosen startups are then given a seed investment through Savour. Over the course of eight weeks, the cohort members use the tools provided by Savour to build skills and expertise in their businesses, and are given an opportunity at the program's conclusion to put their education to use. Deep Dive week acts as a culmination, consisting of a weeklong schedule dedicated to showcasing each business' growth. From flawlessly displaying their businesses to the public on"Demo Day", to ultimately pitching their potential to investors in private on the final day of the week's schedule, the goal is to have the businesses re-enter the industry with newfound confidence. As Program Manager Amira AlZayed puts it, “We want to push them

to the next level beyond anything they can reach by themselves.” As any traditional accelerator model should be, the Savour Ventures program is an intensive one, implying that the cohort should be fully committed to the program for two months in order to potentially achieve success for their businesses. Admitted startups attend the accelerator during the working week, engaging in intensive courses such as "Customer Delight", "Branding, Storytelling and Sales" and "Raising Capital and Sources of Capital". Throughout class days, the Savour team takes the startups through the program curriculum with guidance and support, while inviting select mentors twice a week, designated to offer advice based on the class topic of that day. Mentors are generally entrepreneurs who have made their mark in the food industry, and include Faith Capital's Abdulaziz Al Loughani, Rakan Al Fadalah of Chocolateness, Kuweat’s Essa Behbehani (who also founded Choowy Goowy - always a win in our books!), and Tap’s Ali Abulhasan – only to name a few. “We really wanted to make this experience educational on both an interactive and personal level, and we felt that giving them access to real-life

Savour participating at ArabNet. examples would benefit them positively. It’s the best way to learn about the do’s and don’ts and everyday perils, challenges and successes of the food business.” Though intimidating, the program offers comfort and assurance that all benefits will be reaped through a quality education. The backbone of Savour is a strong one, between its founder’s credentials, and the accelerator’s partnership with Creative Startups in Albequerque New Mexico. At the beginning of the program, classes were instructed by Creative Startups’ very own Lena Ramfelt – a globally recognized entrepreneurship educator who has 12 years of teaching entrepreneurship at Stanford’s School of Engineering under her belt. But Lena couldn’t stay forever, and with her absence, classes have been taken over by Rashid and managing partner Mona AlMukhaizeem, who also holds the title of Sirdab Lab co-founder. “I enjoy teaching,” Mona says warmly, as I catch her in a moment between classes. “It takes a lot of energy for sure, but I feel like the startup founders get to ask questions about whatever’s on their mind. It’s a good bonding experience, which is important for their overall experience as well.”

Rashid, on the other hand, delivers a hardball approach to teaching, so much so that his face crumpled up in knowing bemusement once I had announced to him that he’d make me cry if he was my teacher during our interview. “But in all seriousness,” he assures me, “I need to make sure they succeed! It’s like, these are your kids, they have 8 weeks and then you have to let them out in the wild. If they can’t hunt or make fire, how are they going to survive?” This response goes to show that while success is a vital outcome factor for Savour to gain equity, it’s only secondary to the bonding experience they want to maintain with their current cohort and all others to come. “We want to create valuable dialogue and meaningful relationships. We’re hoping to set the standard for what an accelerator should be in Kuwait and in the region. After they graduate we remain in contact, they’re our alumni – we’re here to help still.” As for the cohort, it consists of a great bunch that many of us already know and love. This proud first lineup of startups include the likes of PantryBee, Solo Tacos, and three foodtech startups that are planning to change our everyday lifestyles in the very near future, EILA,

Tabb and Bulkwhiz. Out of 108 applications, these five were chosen because Rashid, Mona and Amira saw potential each startup founder's greatness. “Since the cohort was much smaller than we originally expected, it’s been a bit of a cozier experience than what was envisioned.” Rashid says almost fondly. “We're looking forward to the cohorts of the future. What we loved about this cohort is that we were able to connect with them and guide them thoroughly, which was a great way to begin our program. After all, the program is about supporting the entrepreneur, and not the idea.” We could definitely savor that idea, so to speak.

Savour Ventures is opening up their application process this month! If you have a food vertical startup you’d like to take to the next level, visit their website to find your application to fill our and submit: www.savour.ventures, and follow them on Instagram @savour.ventures for more information. 59

SECRETS FROM “BEST PLACES TO WORK” LISTS Anyone can use these! By Gwen Moran

Perhaps few things can make your workplace feel more inadequate than those annual “best places to work” lists. They list posh benefits, campuses with dry cleaning services, and training programs that give employees leadership experience. How is a smaller company with a smaller budget supposed to compete? The good news is that there are ways to take cues from what those companies are doing, scale them, then adapt and adopt them for your company, says Ed Frauenheim, director of global research and content at Great Place to Work Institute, a research and consulting firm that publishes a number of “best places to work” lists. FIND THE NEEDS Before you start adding policies and perks, you first need to understand what your employees really want, Frauenheim says. Listen to them, whether that means using employee surveys, in-person interviews, or other vehicles. Find out their needs, and prioritize the investments of time and money you can make accordingly. For Manny Medina, former Amazon and Microsoft executive and current CEO of U.S.-based Outreach, a platform that allows salespeople to better engage clients and prospects, that meant investing their paternal leave policies. Outreach has been named a “best workplace” by Inc. and Seattle Business Magazine. Medina and his team realized that in order for new parents to return from parental leave rested and ready to hit the ground running, they needed some help. So the company provides a doula to help care for the baby in the early weeks and help parents get some rest. The cost is about $8,000 each time a doula is hired. Medina says that may seem like a lot of money, but it’s a limited, periodic expense that helps them retain their best talent. HELP THEM GROW Well-developed training programs, tuition reimbursement, and formal mentoring programs are some hallmarks of top workplaces. However, Scott Dobroski, director of corporate communications at Glassdoor, which publishes several annual “best places to work” lists, says there are many ways to help employees grow, and that’s something most are seeking from their employers. “Give them the skills. Teach them. Coach them. Send them to a conference. Pay for an e-learning course online, something like that, where you’re broadening their horizons and their skill sets and with

Photo by Tu Tram Pham on Unsplash the caveat, or the understanding of, “You’re going to learn this and this is going to be awesome, but I also want you to apply these learnings to this business where we work every day,” he says. Dave Keil, CEO of software quality assurance testing firm QASymphony, credits The Alliance: Managing Talent in the Networked Age by LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha, with introducing him to the concept of a “tour of duty.” These non-binding agreements define what the employee and the manager each want the employee to accomplish over the next two to three years in terms of goals, career growth, and accomplishments. FOSTER TRUST At $9.3 billion, World Wide Technology, which tests and builds IT systems for Fortune 500 companies and government clients, isn’t one of the “little guys.” But Ann Marr, vice president of global human resources, says some of the policies and approaches to the workplace have landed the company on “best places to work” lists, such as Glassdoor and Great Place to Work. The most important one is to create a culture of coaching and success that fosters trust. What does that mean in day-to-day interaction? In addition to helping employees by giving them opportunities to lead projects that may be a stretch or take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills, the company expects employees to coach each other. If you’re struggling, they’re encouraged to

offer help. If you could have done something better, they’re encouraged to tactfully give you feedback to help you improve. If they see you overwhelmed with work, they’re going to roll up their sleeves and pitch in—whether you work in the C-suite or the warehouse. RECOGNIZE AND EMPOWER You’ve likely heard of companies that take top performers on fancy trips. That may not be in the budget, but you should still be recognizing employees when they perform well, and when possible, giving them the autonomy to have some say over how they do their jobs, Frauenheim says. “In some of our recent case studies, we’ve found a really close association between the ability to innovate and feeling you’re at a great workplace,” he says. Recognition could be as simple as using a team meeting or group email to thank someone who’s done a great job. To be able to recognize employees regularly, help them develop, and understand the areas where autonomy could help the company and the employee, sister companies Broder & Sachse Real Estate and Sachse Construction tweaked its performance management system to be based on quarterly instead of annual assessments, says Myra Ebarb, director of people and perks for both companies, which have roughly 300 employees between them. “The smallest company can make a big change by asking [employees] what they want and giving them a voice,” she says.

sutis

MARKETERS BEWARE; VIRTUAL REALITY IS SOON TO BECOME THE NEW REALITY By Barry Rodrigues

If you are a tech geek, chances are you’ve either come across virtual reality in some way shape or form or you are already experiencing the new wave of technology that will soon change the way we consume content. As technological innovations continue to impact digital marketing, one of the most exciting and intriguing tools to hit the landscape in the last few years is VR, or virtual reality. In my current job role, I have been heavily involved in Virtual Reality over the last six months and I have come to one major conclusion. Virtual Reality will very soon become main-stream and if brands want to survive in an age where engagement is one of the most important factors for success, VR offer one of the most immersive forms of engagement to date. So what is Virtual Reality? VR is basically a computer generated environment that uses high end graphics as well as audio and other sensations (including in some cases smell) to make users feel that they are in a different world in which they can interact and in some cases manipulate what is around them. Most VR experiences are generated through the use of VR headsets. Users can experience VR by inserting their VR enabled smartphones into a VR headset like Google’s Cardboard or something similar for a basic VR experience. If you want something more realistic and immersive, you can opt for some high-end devices that are connected to a high-end gaming PC that will deliver an awe inspiring experience. Uses for VR are everywhere, beginning with gaming, offering gamers a new and innovative avenue of experiencing what it feels like being part of a game. But that is just the beginning. Education is set to take a big leap with the ability for students to experience certain historical events as they happened thereby creating a long lasting impression. In the near future, in addition to being able to buy tickets to attend a live concert, you will also be able to purchase tickets to concerts in VR form. This means entertainment companies will soon be able to sell access to a concert whereby you will be able to actively experience the concert in 360 degree Virtual Reality without the hassle of traveling to another city, standing in line to enter the concert hall; you will be able to enjoy the entire concert in the comfort of your own home. Although uses for VR have yet to go main62

stream, some brands are already experimenting with this new and innovative technology to create more personalized and interactive experiences for their customers. Mercedes lets users experience driving the latest SL model on the Pacific Coast Highway in addition to taking a look at the interiors. A tourism company in Sicily has been able to get tourists to visit a new site on the island by simulating a 3D version of centuries old caves on a VR headset. So how can marketers take advantage of this phenomenal new way of targeting customers? If you’re in the hospitality business, imagine being able to give people a tour of your resort before they buy your package? After incorporating adaptive 7.1 channel surround sound to the VR experience, there is a higher likelihood that your customers will opt in. What if you want to get people to register to your upcoming event? Very soon, you should be able to give them a sneak peek of what to expect by enabling them to walk through the convention center, taking in the people, sounds and activities. Adding this layer of interactivity will make them even more interested in the event thereby increasing the likelihood of them registering for it. It is noteworthy to mention that the power of Virtual Reality is not just in the technology.

While the technology itself is amazing, the human brain’s ability to identify and comprehend audio and visual cues is much higher. In other words, VR experiences stimulate the part of the brain that does higher level thinking, forcing it to create memories that will last longer as opposed to an experience when you are reading or watching TV. By giving your audiences a virtual experience, you can nudge them into taking the next desired action. Instead of just reading about and hearing and seeing things in 2D, your prospects can actually see and feel them in 3D.

Barry Rodrigues is Head of Marketing & Product Development at Future Communications and an associate advisor with the International Advisors Group in Kuwait. For comments, please email Barry at barry@nexgenconsulting.co.uk.

Boccini

bocciniKw 222 00 669 Soku,The Avenues

BLEEMING MARVELOUS

Fresh flowers delivered at the touch of a button with Bleems By bazaar staff

Scrolling through social media often notifies us of that all-important birthday or anniversary we may have let slip from memory because of the busy lives we lead, perhaps a friend has just added to their family or passed a driving test. Presumably just clicking “like” or sending a digital message just isn’t enough to show your loved ones how much you care, or how guilty you feel for forgetting about their important milestone! There are so many occasions worthy of celebrating by sending flowers, and we may not always have the time to go down to the local florist, especially at a moment’s notice. What if you do visit the store of your choice and they’ve just sold out of the exact flowers you want? It’s Bleems to the rescue! Originally 965 Flowers and based only in Kuwait, this started as a service that allows the customer to peruse a number of options where loads of stores sit under the same banner. Instead of having to go to any number of websites, Instagram accounts and drive (or taxi) around looking for recommended flower shops, you just go to a one-stop online shop. Happily, 965 blossomed into Bleems and expanded into other area codes. Now customers can access the finest flowers available in Bahrain, UAE and Saudi Arabia too. This is more than a stroke of luck if you need to make your flower deliveries to friends, family and other loved ones in these areas. The whole process is effortless, as all you have to do is simply download the Bleems app and select which country you wish to send to. Click on the “Flowers” icon and here you can consider the entire menu available to you. It is possible to filter even further, choosing from the newest offerings to those within your specified budget, or even by flower or the name of the arrangement, if you have seen it somewhere before. Do you have a specific occasion in mind? The app has divided each and every flower arrangement into twelve useful sections such as Graduation, Housewarming and Congratulations for example, as well as “suitable for all occasions” and a “seasonal” section. Once you have clicked on the option you desire, the picture further opens up with a description of the flowers used in the bouquet. 64

Cleverly, the dimensions of the arrangements are given too, so you can determine the impact if you wanted that bouquet of roses, delivered to the office of the recipient, to be large enough to make them the envy of all their colleagues! There is also a quick glance box that tells you whether or not the flowers can be delivered “same day” making it easier to choose options for that last-minute delivery. The mobile site is utterly pain-free and easy to use, and the website www.bleems.com is just as user friendly. This is a business that understands exactly what a customer needs, and that the app or website needs to be as stress free as possible; you may already be under a bit of pressure if you are using a flower service last-minute, so Bleems makes it simple, swift and certain. Bleems is currently partnered with over ninety shops to make sure you are offered the widest assortment of flowers available, at your fingertips, and if you wanted to make that floral presentation even more special, there are confectionary and other gift ideas available too. Like what you see? Then you can click on the supplier’s name and the other offerings that that particular supplier has on the app will pop up too. There’s even a supplier with high-end children’s playthings that you can send with your chosen arrangement! The Bleems service is fast and convenient, and it is the largest online platform for flowers in the Middle East. There are some simply stunning arrangements to choose from. You may invest in a sculptural display of Oriental orchids set into a stone planter, choose hydrangeas overflowing from a china vase, gift glass domes filled to bursting with blooms, or consign the cutest little cacti. With excellent quality and high standards being a precursor to shops being allowed to sign up to the Bleems botanic athenaeum, you are guaranteed the Bleems “stamp of approval” with every purchase you make. You can always trust that the baskets or bouquets sent, will be the best on offer and delivered on time. If last minute notifications are not your style for sending flowers and you like to plan out your gifting, then Bleems also has a pre-scheduling service so you can plan the year ahead and organize your budget accordingly. From same day to pre-scheduling, you can track you order so you know exactly when it has been picked up and finally delivered. Using your provided email address, they will send you emails with these notifications. There are simply no excuses any more…bazaar is in the Zahra Complex if you are wondering where to send your next bunch.

Download the Bleems app from the iPhone AppStore, and for Android find it on Google Play. Follow @Bleems on Instagram to see more of what’s on offer or to shop the collection online go to www.bleems.com. 65

Geeks & Gamers

NINTENDO SWITCH & SUPER MARIO ODYSSEY By bazaar staff

This month is a 2-in-1 review! If you’ve been on the fence about buying the Switch, then wonder no more. You should finally take the plunge and buy one, because November saw the release of Super Mario Odyssey! As mentioned back in our Breath of the Wild review, I didn’t see the need to get a Switch for BOTW or Mario Kart, since they were already available on the Wii U with next to no difference in gameplay and graphics. However, with there being no more first party games to be released on the Wii U, as soon as I saw Mario Odyssey (MO) announced during the middle of this year, I knew that would be the game to drive me to buy a Switch. The unit, as you all know by now, is part handheld, and part home console. You can either play it on a nice big TV screen, or pick it up and take it with you out and about. Transitioning between the two is fairly seamless without having to disconnect cords and adjust settings; you simply remove it from the dock, attach the Joy Cons and away you go, and the reverse for playing it on a TV. It’s basically how it looks in the promo videos for the Switch, only with fewer hipsters. While I don’t take mine to play outside, it’s a nice option when I want to laze in a different part 66

of the house and play a little. Battery life in portable mode is decent, you get a good few hours out of it and having played Mario, Bomberman and Puo Puo Tetris, everything runs smoothly and games look great in handheld, as they do (naturally) in docked mode. I don’t really have any negatives regarding the Switch, and now that games are coming out thick and fast, it’s a great time to think about buying one. As for Mario, I’ve mostly been playing it in docked mode, on the TV. It’s been quite a few years since a proper 3D Mario game has been out; the last were Mario 64, Mario Sunshine and the 2 Mario Galaxy games some 10 years ago, and beyond. Mario 64 is actually one of my all-time favorite games and MO brings everything that made it my favorite game, plus more, to deliver arguably the best game of 2017. We all know the story by now: Princess Peach gets herself kidnapped by Bowser, and it’s up to Mario to go to the rescue. This time though, you’re assisted on your journey by Cappy, a magical cap that sits on Mario’s head and allows you to collect items, jump higher/further, and what I can only describe as ‘possess other living beings’. That does sound quite dark for a Mario game, granted, but it’s executed in a typically loveable Nintendo fashion. By taking over other characters, you can progress deeper in each world and gain more ‘power moons’ (this games version of the classic Mario stars). Collecting power moons is the aim of the game and in doing so, you

can power up the ‘odyssey’ (your hat shaped space ship) and go to new worlds, with the ultimate goal of getting to Bowser and saving the princess. MO is a beautiful looking game, with vibrant and colorful visuals, amazing graphics, huge, varied open worlds and attention to detail in everything on screen at any one time. The level design is nothing short of genius, and shows why Nintendo is still, 32 years later, king of the platformer genre. This is the kind of game that when you see something and think ‘I wonder if I can do anything here’, 9 times out of 10 you can, and you’ll be rewarded for it. You’ll get so caught up exploring in MO most of the time that you’ll forget that you have a game with objectives to get through! There are so many hidden references and nods to the last 35 years or so of Mario that, if you’re a fan of the series, or an older gamer like myself, you’ll constantly find huge smiles creeping across your face, while silently praising Nintendo on a job well done. This is a game I would definitely advise you try and avoid looking at online, or on YouTube, before playing it for yourself. You really don’t want to have any single experience spoiled (hence why I’m light on details in this review...I don’t want to be that guy!). If you’re looking for something new, fresh and exciting to play, ignore the Xbox One X. Forget the PS4 Pro. And whatever you do leave Call of Duty alone. Go and pick up a Switch with at least a copy of Mario Odyssey. As long as you love games, I’m confident that you’ll thank me for taking this advice.

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ISTANBUL DREAMING

Tasting Turkey at Emirgan Sutis By bazaar staff

There’s a certain magic you feel when you land in Istanbul, that’s difficult to recreate anywhere else. The beautiful sun grazing across the miles of green, the fresh, crisp smell of the Bosphorus filling your lungs, and the smell of Turkish street delicacies filling the air at night. It’s hard to find those sensations outside of Turkey, but in Kuwait, it isn’t impossible to mimic them. Emirgan Sutis is the destination of all destinations in Kuwait where, like charming Istanbul, the East meets the West. As soon as its vast doors open to a magical world, you are drowned in a pleasantly overwhelming parade of senses. Vibrant rhythms of soulful music fill your ears, and heartwarming scents of freshly prepared oven baked simit and fragrant grinds of the Turkish coffee waft to your nose. Don’t forget the mouthwatering effect of the intoxicating smell of charcoal grilled meat and chicken! 68

Food isn’t the only treat for the eyes at this authentic Turkish eatery. As you make your way through the glistening dining hall, twinkle lights, historic portraits, and beautiful paintings adorn an ambience that you’ll automatically fall in love with. It is at this point, that you’re taken back to the streets of Istanbul, and remember why Emirgan Sutis was the dining destination you chose for yourself, your family and friends to enjoy. In the hopes that you’ll be transported back to Turkey, without even having to drive to the airport. Each Emirgan location offers a setting that suits your ambiance of choice. What is it that you miss the most about Istanbul’s atmosphere, the romantic, relaxing meals enjoyed alfresco? Emirgan in Menus Complex is the perfect place to enjoy your Turkish breakfast made with pungent marmalade, sweet honey, and a delectable assortment of cheeses. Perhaps your search of recreating the mouthwatering taste of kababs accompanied by an array of other melt-in-yourmouth grilled meats, like you had experienced in Istanbul’s market-style eateries. We say you do so in style at Gate Mall’s Emirgan Sutis, tucked

in a cozy corner of the scenic mall. We also can’t forget the sweet and refreshing moments spent in between the hustle and bustle of a Turkey trip. Reminisce your experiences by gathering with friends at Emirgan’s The Avenues location around a tray of hot teas and addictive Turkish desserts, including fried dondurma: A cold scoop of traditional Turkish dondurma ice cream covered in a baked layer of cornflakes and smothered in rich chocolate topped with strawberries. Adventure tends to be about the journey, not the destination. At Emirgan Sutis, your destination takes you on a bountiful journey filled with food and hospitality so inviting, that you’ll never want it to end. Emirgan Sutis is the social experience that you have been looking for, great food and great company, all while sending you back to Istanbul in a matter of minutes. Just activate all your senses, and you’re there. Emirgan Sutis is located in Gate Mall in Egaila, SoKu at The Avenues, and Menus Complex in Abu Hailfa. Call 1850 005 for more information. Follow them on Instagram @sutis_kw for the latest updates.

Texas

JYSK, THE FIRST OF MANY

AAW brings Scandinavian sleeping and living to Kuwait By bazaar staff

Celebrating more than 2500 stores worldwide, with a grand opening in Kuwait representing its 49th country, JYSK showcases the best examples of Scandinavian sleeping and living items that there is to offer. The flagship store sprawls over 10,000 squared feet showcasing compact and bijou living at surprisingly affordable prices considering the finish and feel of the products. This is perfect planning for apartment dwelling and when walking through the new store, it is easy to see why JYSK Group products are synonymous with style, quality and value. 70

No stranger to operating global brands in the Middle East, with more than one hundred under their belt, Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co., also known as AAW, has a reputation for outstanding performances across the retail and consumer business sectors. Over a century old, AAW kick-started and established the modern furniture market in Kuwait, after furnishing the entire government sector in 1962. It is no wonder then that the evidently keen business eye of AAW spotted JYSK in the home interiors market, and knew that this was a brand that they could proudly work with. AAW was determined to be the first to debut JYSK in the region. AAW operates the largest furniture showroom in Kuwait, with an advanced warehouse facility solely dedicated to housing partner brands such as JYSK. This means they have the manpower and the expertise to successfully support this new partnership. It is

important to AAW to provide quality, value for money and Scandinavian design that can be accessible and affordable for everyone. But what does that exactly mean? Signalling the end of Romanticism, industrialism began to take hold over the West at the end of the 19th Century. There is no contrast so stark as the juxtaposition of the two movements Art Nouveau and Art Deco which spanned the transition into the new century. The first art movement was all William Morris swirly florals, animal and nature inspired, and the second movement embraced geometric, industrially-driven and modernist influences. In the run up to the 1900s, the use of interior design to simply decorate previously was the preserve of the seriously affluent, yet in most other homes furniture simply had to function. After the first and second World Wars, new democratic

ideals swept across Europe. Interior design and lifestyle website thespruce.com notes that, “The new conviction became that the beauty once reserved for the wealthy, and the functionality required by the masses, could be combined and that such products should be affordable for everyone.” It was during this time that Scandinavian countries first started to band together; Scandinavia typically refers to the three main pillars of Norway, Sweden and Denmark but can also include Finland, Iceland and occasionally Greenland too. In the 1950s, exhibitions of “Design in Scandinavia” toured the globe promoting the interior design movement. Utility above decoration became the name of the game for many, and simple, clean lines, bare walls and natural, lightwood finishes were popularised. The ultimate goal is hygge (pronounce it hue-gah, like the Y in JYSK yue-sk), which essentially means simplicity and well-being. The recent focus on environmentalism and sustainability has led to a resurgence in the popularity of the multi-function, space-saving and stylish movement. Accessible price-points mean that nearly everyone can achieve this hygge in the home with JYSK, as the ranges are ideal for studio apartment, city-living as well the more expansive home, perfect for newlyweds, and weekend living at the chalet. We sat down with AAW’s JYSK Marketing Manager– Corporate Marketing and Customer Care, Ayaat Morgan, to find out more about JYSK. Why was it important to bring JYSK to Kuwait? AAW wanted to be the first to debut JYSK’s flagship store in the Middle East and to introduce Scandinavian design and trend at affordable prices. We started with our teaser and reveal campaign – Your home can afford trends, which is the core of JYSK’s identity. It is very important for us to provide quality and value for money that can be accessible and affordable for everyone. We also want to compete with total confidence that we are providing versatile, trendy Danish design at great prices, plus we want to make a real impact on the community and inspire Danish/Scandinavian style in Kuwaiti homes. JYSK represents Scandinavian living at its very best, can you describe what that really means? Scandinavian design means form, function and value. You can have trendy and expensive looking furniture for affordable prices and value for money. The design, simplicity and quality of JYSK furniture truly matches Scandinavians’ expectations in terms of durability for everyday use. Our customers want to surround themselves with products that are both functional and built to last. What are the sort of products that we can enjoy in JYSK? We have absolutely everything your home needs from textiles, beddings, furniture, accessories, mattresses, garden furniture, dining tables, bed and bath accessories and bedrooms. [Continued...]

What are some of the key furnishing trends for the season that are currently available at JYSK? For the winter season we have quilts, throws and pillows as well as heart-warming accessories to add a cozy and contemporary look to your home. We have also included festive accessories for the holidays! As it’s cooler now, we also have a range of garden furniture in all shapes and sizes. What makes JYSK a market leader when it comes to affordable, interior design options? The fact that it represents the best of Scandinavian sleeping and living design for our lifestyles with a coordinated range for every room in your house. Can you order online or via a catalogue? We do have a “Now Open” brochure with many promotional offers inside. We are excited to say 72

[...Continued]

that the e-commerce website is under construction – stay tuned for developments! Are there any plans for expansion across Kuwait? Yes, expect more surprises in 2018! What exciting developments can the JYSK customer look forward to in 2018? Every two months, there will be further additions and changes to the ranges on offer. The interior design finishes of your home can be as fashionable as you are, and you can be confident in the quality of the products in your home too. We have loads of promotions and in-store activities planned and to be even closer to customers, more store locations across Kuwait are planned for 2018. Dajeej is just the first of many. If you can’t quite manage to get to the store as often as you'd like, we are in the process of creating the JYSK Kuwait website. Here, you can purchase

using the convenience of your mobile or lap-top and then have all the items hand delivered to your door!

The JYSK flagship store is located in the Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa showroom at Dajeej, Airport Road 55. For customer support or more information, please call 222 61 884, or email JYSK@aaw.com. JYSK is open 7 days a week, from 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. Delivery and assembly services are also available for a minimal additional price. Follow @JYSK_Kuwait on Instagram, Twitter and JYSK Kuwait on Facebook and YouTube. For more home inspiration visit www.jysk.com, www.jysk. co.uk or www.jysk.ca and for more about AAW visit www.aaw.com.

Raising Cane's

WANT IT? JUST FLEX IT!

Shop your hearts out with Shop & Ship FLEX By bazaar staff

With holiday sales right around the corner, it gets harder and harder to decide how much of a budget you wish to allocate on shipping for every item on your numerous online wish lists. We know that you want the latest accessories for your brand-new iPhone X, those new Adidas kicks, and so much more, and with Shop & Ship FLEX, the "weight" is over! Perhaps the biggest challenge customers face with online shopping in the region is paying for shipping. While many couriers charge you for the volumetric weight of your items, Aramex is changing the game. Recently launching the Shop & Ship membership plan, FLEX, this exclusive membership option arrives as the ultimate solution to our ceaseless appetites for shopping online, without having to worry about paying an extortionate amount of money on shipping. With the new and exclusive membership option, Shop & Ship FLEX, get ready for loads of savings! First and foremost, shipping rates are calculated based on 100 gram weight breaks, versus the traditional 500 grams weight breaks, which allows you to save up to 90% on shipping costs compared to similar services offered by other couriers. This is perfect if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a frequent online shopper with a penchant for those little knickknacks you find on Amazon, books, shoes, and accessories, amongst many other things. For instance, if you have a 200-grams item being shipped, your calculated fees will only be 200 grams rather than 500 grams based on the usual weight breaks. FLEX members also receive complimentary protection against the damage and loss of all shipments values up to $2,500 (KD 755). For those seeking bargain designer discounts, but worry that your goods could get damaged along the way, this complimentary offering truly alleviates those qualms. Usually, S&S customers, who have any shipment worth up to $100 (30 K.D. approximately), are protected against loss or damage, free of charge. They are then charged $1 for every additional $100 if they sign up for S&S Protect service. Do the math, and consider the peace of mind and savings you get when upgrading to FLEX! This next benefit will delight beauty lovers everywhere. When signing up for FLEX, you get 25% off on S&S Perfumes and S&S Select service charges. This means more bargains when it comes to buying your signature perfume, hairspray, nail polish removers and more! Still stuck with gift ideas for the holidays for your loved ones? Sign up for FLEX and enjoy all of these amazing savings. 74

We also love the Smart Saver benefit with Shop & Ship FLEX, as this allows members to benefit from additional savings on packages when they are shipped together. Say goodbye to individual fees for your packages, as this benefit really allows you to stretch your online shopping budget even further. Bought something with FLEX, only to realize that it’s not what you expected? Benefit from 30% off on Return Services. We personally love FLEX because it takes into account little nuances that always bothered the typical online customer in our region. While we see a world of appealing items and amazing bargains online, we are sometimes hindered by shipping costs and really unfeasible return policies. With FLEX, however, it is clear that Aramex is disrupting the current market with these innovative offerings. For those of you with a keen eye on select items that you’ve considered too expensive to ship due to the item’s heavy weight, Shop & Ship FLEX offers an additional 20% off! For packages weighing in at 3 Kilos or more, more discounts on shipping make the bargain all the more appealing! We could personally count the number of times we’ve spotted amazing home accessories online at phenomenal prices, only to be discouraged by the shipping costs. If like us, you have a growing list of items you love on handmade and vintage haven Etsy, then this benefit can really bridge the gap between ‘want’ and ‘must-have’! The all new Shop & Ship FLEX membership is competitively priced at US$119 (KD 35) per year for both existing and new customers. The membership benefits will give members more value and flexibility when shopping online globally. When you really think about it, and when you consider all of the additional benefits mentioned above, you not only save KD 35 per year, but also so much more! This is explained when you actually calculate all the savings you get with FLEX, which would quickly offset the annual membership fee for this all-new service in simply a few shipments per year. If you’re a frequent online shopper, then consider the nightmare of insane shipping rates as officially over with Shop & Ship FLEX.

To learn more and to sign up for Shop & Ship FLEX, please visit www.shopandshipflex.com. For more information, follow @ShopandShip_Insta on Instagram, @ShopandShip on Twitter and Facebook: MyShopandShip. 75

big boys toys

DOXA SUB 300 BLACK LUNG WATCH

TURTLE ROVER RC ROBOT

KEN OKUYAMA KODE57 SUPERCAR

U-BOAT WORX CRUISE SUBMARINES

DTV SHREDDER

MB&F OCTOPOD CLOCK

Inspired by a rare prototype timepiece from 1967, the Doxa Sub 300 Black Lung Watch sports a vintage design that would make longtime fan Jacques Cousteau proud. Its dial is finished in the company's signature "professional" orange, with a date window at 3 o'clock and the "aqua-lung" logo at 8. It's powered by a chronometer-grade ETA movement, which sits inside the 42.5mm case crafted from a solid block of stainless steel.

U-Boat Worx Cruise Series Submarines are ideal underwater vessels for larger groups. All six models, from the five-person, 500-meter sub to the 11-person, 200-meter unit offer omnidirectional movement with an electric thruster system, twin large acrylic spheres that provide distortion-free views, and revolving seats to make sure you're always facing the ideal direction. They automatically raise themselves if you go too deep!

Billed as "the world's first land drone", the Turtle Rover was designed by the same folks that brought us the Mars rover. The four-wheeled explorer has a front-facing camera and a robotic arm, is completely water-tight, and can run for four hours on a single charge. Controlled from your smartphone or tablet with an open-source app, the Turt Rover is completely customizable. Deliveries are expected to start in June 2018 so you still have time to save.

Perched atop two aggressive tank treads, the skateboard-like deck of the DTV Shredder feels familiar. Powered by a 4-stroke, 196cc engine, it can hit speeds of over 25 mph. It has a patented Dual CVT transmission system that converts your natural movements into controls, adjusting the speed of the tracks to match. Thanks to those tracks, it can handle nearly any terrain, including sand, snow, and dirt, yet folds down to a trunk-friendly size.

Designer Ken Okuyama is no stranger to supercars. While at Pininfarina, Ken helped create the lines of the Enzo Ferrari and the one-off, Enzo-based Ferarri P4/5. His latest automobile design is the Kode57, a breathtaking open-top roadster based on the Ferrari 599. A spectacular blend of vintage roadster and modern aerodynamic lines, the Kode57 has a F1-inspired front that sweeps elegantly to the rear while enveloping the passenger compartment.

Inspired by cephalopods, marine chronometers, and The Abyss, this fascinating timepiece from MB&F is certain to stand out no matter where it resides. It was built by Switzerland clock maker L'EpĂŠe 1839 and can stand or crouch using its eight articulated legs. Each leg can be individually adjusted to varying heights which allows the Octopod to rest securely on uneven surfaces. Available in three limited editions of 50 pieces each.

Source: www.uncrate.com

Mac

IT’S GETTING FESTIVE AT JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA Fine dining and evenings outdoors await with 25% discount for early bookings! By bazaar staff

Temperatures have cooled, but the culinary creations this winter at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait’s idyllic resort, remain sizzling hot with first-class dining options in luxurious settings to suit all tastes. Guests are in for a host of festive treats when dining at Jumeirah Messilah Beach this season, just in time for the holidays! Better yet, enjoy all of the festivities at more savings, as Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is offering a discount of 25% for early bookings! 78

Starting from the 4th to 25th December, treat your friends and family to a special festive ambiance throughout the resort’s dining outlets. We personally cannot think of a better destination to end this year on a high note than at the impeccable Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa. At the heart of the hotel, the renowned Garden Café restaurant offers a celebratory brunch and dinner on December 24th, December 25th, and January 7th. Overlooking stunning surroundings and garden views, diners will indulge in a unique ambiance with festive temptations ranging from Peking duck, marinated cheese displays with cold cuts, roasted pumpkin specialties, chicken roulade with red apple compote and pink peppercorn, and

much more. Live music entertainment and kids' activities will add to the excitement of the entire experience. A highlight not to be missed is the restaurant’s Live Festive Carvery Treats, including whole roasted turkey, honey & orange glazed turkey ham, roasted lamb rack, and herb-marinated Wagyu beef rump with delicious sides such as Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Trust us when we say, festive traditions are celebrated with a keen eye on every detail at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa! Creative treats from the resort’s acclaimed pastry chefs range from Mascarpone berry crumble, festive puddings, strawberry roulades, and sweet Italian Panettone. We can't wait to try these delights ourselves!

The celebrations continue at the hotel's award-winning luxury restaurants, where Pepper Steakhouse offers a 3-course set menu, and a musttry winter mountain treat of Swiss Gruyere cheese fondue and slow-roasted pies to get you into the holiday mood. Perfect for cool evenings, this fondue will warm yoru hearts and your tummies, especially when you consider the stunning decor at Pepper. At Olio Italian Restaurant, the chef greets you with a true Italian spirit- Trattamento Festivo! Tuck in to homemade Italian specialties in a warmlyrelaxed atmosphere overlooking the beautiful Arabian Gulf Sea. The 3-course set menu features baked Turkey Breast with mushroom risotto, and savory handmade tortellini. It's true, cozy evenings call for cozy dinners, and we can't think of a better destination to channel our love for Italian cuisine than at Olio. The season’s favorites are also available at the Tea Lounge, where guests can purchase all their festive essentials – a merry display of freshly-made sweet treats, cookies, and warm puddings from the Hamper Shop to take home to their families and friends. As we approach the much-anticipated New Year celebrations, the luxurious resort has prepared delightful surprises in all its dining outlets. This is where we advise you once again to benefit from the early bird discount, because why not celebrate the New Year in style? Celebrate the night away in Garden Café with lavish buffets showcasing seafood displays, BBQ grills, homemade pasta stations, live shawarma, and pastries with truffle indulgences. Ring in the New Year at Olio Italian Restaurant the Italian way, where a rich New Year’s Eve dinner is all about promising diners a good and healthy year ahead. Ultimate dining elegance awaits at Salt Seafood & International Restaurant, welcoming you with delectable canapés, and inviting you to the unique “Salt Discovery” menu of marine treasures. Those who wish for a little more intimate celebration can enjoy thoughtfully crafted 5-course set menus featuring some of the world’s finest cuts of premium meats at Pepper. Mint Café, the beach & poolside restaurant also has a lot in store for its guests. Cross over to the 2018 in style with an exquisite dining experience like no other with smoke-pit barbeques on BBQ Beach Nights. Famous regional and international buffet, smoked meats and pie bar and many others. Stay different this season, and celebrate the night away at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa as you cherish beautiful and unforgettable moments with family and friends.

The Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is located in Messilah, Al Ta’awun Street, Block 7, Building 13. For more information, please call 2226 9666 or visit Jumeirah.com. Follow their latest updates on Instagram, @JumeirahMessilahBeach, Twitter @JumeirahMB and Facebook.com/JumeirahMessilahBeach.

bazaar movie night

The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in December

BLOOD MONEY

JACKALS

JUNGLE

JEEPERS CREEPERS 3

STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI

JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

Release Date: December 7th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Thriller Cast: John Cusack, Ellar Coltrane, Willa Fitzgerald Synopsis: Blood Money (originally titled Misfortune) is a 2017 action thriller film directed by Lucky McKee and written by Jared Butler and Lars Norberg. The film stars John Cusack, Ellar Coltrane, Willa Fitzgerald and Jacob Artist. During a weekend excursion in the woods, three friends, Victor (Ellar Coltrane), his ex-girlfriend Lynn (Willa Fitzgerald) and Jeff (Jacob Artist) discover three bags full of money. They discover that it belongs to a criminal named Miller (John Cusack), who is looking for it. The friends must outrun the white collar criminal hell-bent on retrieving his cash, but soon their greed turns them against each other.

Release Date: December 14th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Thriller, Horror, Mystery Cast: Stan Shaw, Gabrielle Haugh, Brandon Smith Synopsis: This year, The Creeper finally returns. On the last day of the Creeper's twenty-three day feeding frenzy, skeptical Sargent Tubbs teams up with a task force hell bent on destroying the Creeper for good. The Creeper fights back in gory glory as its enemies grow closer than ever before to learning the secret of its dark origins. This exclusive onenight event also features never-before-seen bonus footage and an interview with Jonathan Breck, who plays The Creeper in all three films in the franchise.

Release Date: December 7th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Thriller, Horror Cast: Deborah Kara Unger, Stephen Dorff, Johnathon Schaech Synopsis: A young man, Justin Powell, is held up at gunpoint by two ski-masked men and dragged back to a secluded cabin. This isn't a standard kidnapping, as Justin's estranged family is at the cabin waiting for him. Composed of Justin's father Andrew, mother Kathy, brother Campbell and former girlfriend Samantha (who has recently given birth to their child), Justin's family is dedicated to freeing him from the brainwashing he's undergone at the hands of a vicious cult. With the help of Jimmy Levine, an experienced cult deprogrammer, the family does their best to bring Justin back to reality.

Release Date: December 14th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy Cast: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Mark Hamill Synopsis: Star Wars: Episode VIII The Last Jedi, marketed as Star Wars: The Last Jedi, is the upcoming second film in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. The film was written and directed by Rian Johnson and produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Ram Bergman, along with executive producer J.J. Abrams. The Last Jedi begins immediately after the events of Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens, set thirty years after the conclusion of the original Star Wars trilogy.

Release Date: December 7th Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Alex Russell, Thomas Kretschmann Synopsis: Four travelers set off into the heart of the Amazon rain forest, but what begins as a dream adventure quickly deteriorates into an utter nightmare. After a terrible accident, Yossi is forced to survive for weeks alone against one of the most treacherous backdrops on the planet: the Amazon Jungle. Stranded without a knife, map or survival training, he must improvise shelter and forage to survive. After losing all sense of direction, Yossi begins to give up hope, wondering if he will ever make it out of the jungle alive. Based on the real story of best-selling author Yossi Ghinsberg.

Release Date: December 21st Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, Kevin Hart Synopsis: When four high-school kids discover an old video game console with a game they've never heard of, they're immediately drawn into the game's jungle setting, becoming the avatars they chose: gamer Spencer becomes a brawny adventurer (Dwayne Johnson); football jock Fridge loses (in his words) "the top two feet of his body" and becomes an Einstein (Kevin Hart); popular girl Bethany becomes a middleaged male professor (Jack Black); and wallflower Martha becomes a badass warrior (Karen Gillan).

For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest you, visit: Sky Cinema: www.skycinemaskw.com or Facebook: Sky Cinemas Kuwait *Above programs are subject to change without prior notice. 80

ZWZ

bazaar goes dining

BAO: THE DIM SUM EDITION

New shareable additions to delight the senses By bazaar staff

A concept that has been going strong for two years, Bao is loved by local diners for its simplicity and delectable offerings. The food innovators behind Bao have not only transformed our understanding of the basic Asian steamed bun, they also made us crave every type of filling that they come up with. However, when it comes to sharing these lovely, soft buns of goodness… Well, they’re too good to be shared! Bao’s concept creators whole heartedly agree, which is why they’ve been quietly planning the perfect Dim Sum menu to accompany their brilliant Bao offerings, and we were there to sample these dishes, ideal for gatherings and dinner parties. Armed with our hungry appetites, we made our way to Sharq on a brilliantly sunny day for some much needed Bao-time. 82

Sometimes, you want ten Baos (because let’s face it, you can never have just one!), and other times, you’re simply craving a bite of the soft bun but want to fill up on other delicious items on the menu. Here to solve all your problems are new smaller Bao renditions that are smartly bite-sized. We opted to try out the Korean Fried Chicken mini Bao, along with the 3-hour braised beef Dun Niurou. We loved the warmth of the fried crispy chicken, the textures from the beautiful Kimchi and the sweet soy sauce. As for the Dun Niurou, we couldn’t get enough of the delectable dark, Asian sauce. Also on the new shareable menu is the Wagyu, topped with caramelized onions, homemade pickled red jalapenos for that extra kick, ginger sesame oil—all in an amazing hickory smoked Bao. We also sampled the Cabbage Crispy salad to accompany our wonderfully shrunken Baos. With the crunch of carrots, cabbage, aromatic coriander, peanuts and crispy wontons and black sesame, this salad delivers on flavors with every bite! The Asian dressing alone is perfect, and we loved how the wontons soaked up the yummy sauce.

Now that our Bao conundrum has been resolved, and we learned that we can have all the bite-sized sticky goodness that we could ever crave, it’s time we took an exploratory look at how Bao does dumplings and wontons, both Dim Sum musts! We went for a small selection here, choosing the Cheese Wonton and Mushroom Wonton dishes. For cheese fans, the former will satisfy your cravings because as soon as you get a hit of the crunchy exterior, you’re hit with a melting combination of Pepper Colby Jack cheese and white sesame, along with a delicious, beautiful mustard dipping sauce! After we ordered another serving of this cheesy creation, we calmed our excited selves down to try the Mushroom Wonton dish. What we loved most about this dish is how spinach is smartly incorporated into the dough, and the filling of mixed mushrooms and accompanying soy sauces is all that is needed to complete this dish. It is simple, smartly seasoned, yet hits you with bags of flavor. For those of you constantly craving seafood, rest assured that the Shrimp Money Bags, and

Shrimp Curry Potstickers will delight your senses. We proceeded with trying the latter, and not only did we find the texture of the pan-fried wonton to be excellent, we also immediately noticed how the curry flavored shrimp filling with cabbage and crunchy carrots left us wanting another order of this dish. And so we did, with absolutely no regrets, because we’re sharing—right? We also noticed that Chicken Curry Rice is featured on the menu, and given the selection of various Dim Sum offerings, it made perfect sense to have a heartier dish there for the one person in your group of friends who always craves rice (There’s always one!). Before this dish even arrived to our table, its fragrant aroma tantalized our taste buds. Thick, fragrant coconut curry is generously poured on top of crispy, fried chicken, and the steamed rice in the minimalistic bamboo bowl soaks up all the mouth-watering curry. Your eyes will first dance over the brightness of the curry, and then the fragrant lemongrass and spices will deliver your palate with indulgence with every bite. Before jumping at the idea of dessert, the always friendly staff at Bao recommended that we should try the Cheese Burger Bun. Baffled by the idea of this dish, we first protested, but then decided to go for it. To give you the full picture, imagine the juiciest beef patty, atop it lies melting Swiss cheese, an earthy truffle mushroom mix, all encased in a hickory smoked Bao and topped with three pristine dots of spicy Sriracha sauce. You might think it’s strange, but we’re telling you that this combination actually works! It’s an adventurous choice surely, but worth the experience. Last but definitely not least, came the very shareable Choco Wontons. Crunchy on the outside, with a healthy coating of white chocolate shavings, these little delights are filled with a crispy hazelnut chocolate spread, and chewy bits of meringue adding yet another textural element that compliments this dessert. With the new Dim Sum menu, Bao now delivers on an experience that surely works better for bigger and brighter gatherings with friends and even for smaller cozy dinners where you want to taste a bit of everything. The constant in both scenarios, however, is that all of Bao’s offerings will satisfy even the most discerning of diners.

Bao Steamed Bun is located in Kuwait City, Sharq Khaled Bin Waleed St. opposite Sharq Police Station roundabout. For more information follow them on Instagram @Bao.Kw or call 5147 0344. 83

bazaar techno

REFLEX 1 SLR FILM CAMERA

NOTION HOME MONITORING SYSTEM

SONY AIBO ENTERTAINMENT ROBOT

MCINTOSH MA252 AMPLIFIER

RAZER PHONE

RYLO 360-DEGREE CAMERA

Mixing modern engineering with classic looks, the Reflex 1 SLR Film Camera is the first newly-designed SLR system in over two decades. It uses a modular design to provide flexibility, with an interchangeable lens mount and film back. It ships with a universal M42 mount that can quickly be swapped for a Nikon F, Olympus OM or Canon FD plate, and the film back is designed to be daylight-changeable, so you can swap films in the middle of a shoot. The camera itself has manual shutter speed and film advance controls, a front-mounted shutter button, and builtin flash and LED lights, so you can choose how to augment the available light.

Combining the warmth of vacuum tubes with the reliability of solid-state design, the McIntosh MA252 Integrated Amplifier is the company's first hybrid integrated amp. Its preamp stage consists of two 12AX7a and two 12AT7 vacuum tubes housed in protective cages, while the output stage is a directlycoupled solid-state unit delivering up to 160 Watts per channel. Two unbalanced, a balanced, and an MM phono input are offered and can be renamed for ease of use. The all-analog design also includes bass and treble controls for fine-tuning and a fullrange subwoofer output to boost low-frequency response.

Internet-connected cameras are a great way to keep tabs on your home, but they only give you part of the picture. Literally. Complete it with a Notion Home Monitoring System. It uses a Wi-Fi connected bridge and battery-powered sensors to give you more information about your home. Each sensor can detect movement, loud noises, and water leaks, notifying you if anything's amiss. They can also tell the temperature, and integrate with the Nest thermostat, giving it the ability to make sure every room in the house stays comfortable. Available as a starter kit with a bridge and either three or five sensors, with extra sensors available separately.

The Razer Phone eschews the company's more extreme design tendencies, and its specs are impressive. For starters, there's the 5.72-inch, Quad HD IGZO LCD capable of 120hz refresh rates for smooth graphics. It's powered by the Snapdragon 835 platform paired with 8GB of RAM and promises an audio experience to match the graphics with front-firing speakers with dual dedicated amplifiers and a THX-certified USB-C audio adapter with a 24bit DAC. All this comes in an aluminum body that also holds a pair of 12-megapixel cameras and a massive 4,000 mAh battery for extra-long gaming sessions.

The original Aibo was a robot, but thanks to the limits of technology at the time, it only performed a limited number of tasks. The Sony Aibo Entertainment Robot is a revitalization of the concept, powered by advancements in robotics and AI. Its outward appearance is more approachable, resembling a real dog more than a sci-fi pet, and ultracompact 1- and 2-axis actuators let it make fluid, natural movements. But it's what's inside that makes the biggest difference, as its software is naturally curious and trained to please, letting it learn your preferences, learn your home's layout, and become a one-of-a-kind companion, much like the real thing.

Developed by a team of former Apple and Instagram engineers, the Rylo 360-Degree Camera is capable of shooting footage in every direction. Odds are you won't be using it for that. Instead, lets you edit a 16:9, 1080p video out of your footage after the fact using an app and some seriously powerful software. For example, you can set a person or thing as a point of interest, and the software will automatically keep it in the frame, no matter what you were doing with the camera. Spec-wise, it has two 208-degree, f/2.8 lenses paired with Sony sensors, and includes a handy grip/tripod that lets you hold it without getting your mitts in the way.

Source: blessthisstuff.com Source: uncrate.com

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RACKED WITH RIBS

Tasting Texas Roadhouse’s new BBQ Ribs flavors By bazaar staff

Mango BBQ and Campfire Ribs

If there’s one place that we know consistently turns out tender rib after rib and delicious steak after steak, cooked exactly to your requirements, it’s Texas Roadhouse. They are so particular, that in the United States, where this satisfyingly, hearty concept was first launched in Indiana in 1993, it is rare (pardon the pun) to launch something new on the menu. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” agrees Product Coach Brandon Everett, who has worked for the restaurant chain since he started washing dishes in one of the restaurant’s kitchens in Virginia back in 2002. 86

However, consistency of customer service is also what this chain is renowned for and that means reflecting in the menu what the customer wants, which here, is mainly change. “Most of our customers are locals, so we also want to inject local flavor into the menu.” Brandon continues, and explains that the first ever Texas Roadhouse lamb chops were offered here in the Middle East. The hand-cut steaks and fall-off-the-bone ribs are the backbone of the business though, so how does Texas Roadhouse remain true to its calling together with delivering the newness that excites the customer in Kuwait, while not venturing away from the traditional menu? Keep the meat, and zhoosh up the topping! After fifteen years of the house classic BBQ sauce, Texas Roadhouse spent the last twelve months

developing, tasting and testing barbeque sauces, to bring us the all new Mango BBQ Ribs and Campfire Ribs. Now bazaar likes a lot of spice, but this is unusual to find in Kuwait unless delving into the fare of South East Asia or the Indian subcontinent, so the Campfire Ribs caught our attention immediately. The promise of tabasco and chili pepper made our mouths water, and we might as well munch on the mango BBQ too while we are at it. We excitedly headed along to the Grand Avenue Texas Roadhouse and were greeted with the familiar army of happy, smiling Roadies, ready to serve us a variety of madefrom-scratch sides and freshly baked buns with cinnamon butter to accompany our ribs. While the ribs are being prepared we speak with Brandon further about Texas Roadhouse.

The role of a Product Coach is to maintain standards and “Roadhouse standards are very high,” he stresses. Food quality and imports also fall under this jurisdiction, and this is key, when it comes to the customer experience. With over 450 restaurants in the US and twelve locations in the GCC there is every chance that an international traveler would want to go to what they know, so it is vital that each and every experience does not vary when it comes to that good ol’ Texas Roadhouse taste. Every Sunday, as most of us start our work week, you can see groups of US servicemen and women sitting at the tables. “There are other brands here that we know but this one really tastes of home,” they tell us. “It tastes exactly the same!” All the beef available at a Kuwait Texas Roadhouse location is imported from the US, is USDA certified and grain finished for 120 days. This produces a very high quality meat and improves and changes the flavor profile of the beef. This is considered a worthwhile investment in the taste and therefore experience of the customer worldwide. As standard, the ribs chosen to cut are only the ones that sit second to fifth on the rack ensuring that each rib has a significant amount of meat on the bone, and they are all of a similar size. Uniformity continues with the sides, and to make sure that the texture is the same, even the potatoes are imported from the US. Depending on the season, the potatoes will come all the way from Idaho or Washington, and we defy you to find a fluffier mashed or baked potato! The gravy that accompanies these sides is a beef roux with garlic and black pepper, so simple but so deliciously comforting when drizzled over hot buttery mash or a rib-eye steak! A trio of Roadies start laying down dish after dish of the new rib menu and it is hard to believe just how much meat is on each plate! It is certainly a good idea to come hungry, with a group of friends, or at least prepared to take some home with you, if you are going to give this menu a good go. The Rib Platter features four chunky ribs, two of each of the new flavors. With the choice of two sides this is a great option for families as you get to taste a bit of everything, and come away full from the table. As we already knew we were going to love the spicy option, we aimed our sights squarely on the Mango BBQ Rib which promised to be a bit sweeter, maybe less savory than we would like, but “save the best to last” they say, so we tried this one first. Wow! This is one of the best BBQ sauces ever! With flavors of garlic, ginger, red pepper and mango coming through, this is a much more robust and well-rounded, complex flavor combination than expected from a steakhouse. It turns out we saved the best for first, not last on this occasion. Sweet and spicy does not do enough to describe the taste with this option, so head on down to your nearest Texas Roadhouse to try it for yourself. A full

portion has two ribs, plated simply and placed in such a way that the serving looks humongous. “We’re not really about art, we focus on the product!” laughs Brandon, but be warned, you will relish each and every mouthful so much, that those massive ribs will be polished off in minutes, so make sure you don’t miss out on sides. The Caesar Salad is crisp and fresh with crunchy croutons scattered throughout, nestled in the creamy dressing with generous amounts of gratings of Gran Padano cheese on top. A simple serving of sweetcorn, drenched in butter and seasoned with cracked black pepper accompanies both ribs and steak well, as you get a wonderful taste but don’t get too full, so you can continue to savor your meat. The Campfire Ribs did not disappoint either, and do not let the claim of “spicy” put you off. There is less heat, and more flavor with this choice. A deeper warmth comes through as you continue to eat the dish and anyone can thoroughly enjoy this level of spice blend.

Finally, getting down to just the basics, we wanted to know what exactly is the foundation of a genuinely good BBQ sauce. Texas Roadhouse uses brown and white sugars and of course citrus sugars too in the mango reduction, as well as tomatoes. Add this to a combination of spices (that Brandon kept to himself) and there you have it, the perfect BBQ base to play with. Rumor has it that we can expect another new flavor to be released soon…so keep an eye out to find out what it is and when this one launches. We already know and it is a doozy! You will love it!

Texas Roadhouse is located in Arabella Complex, Salwa (2221 4993), Sidra Complex in Mahboula (2208 1303) and Grand Avenue— The Avenues (2228 3117). Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @texasroadhouseme for more information and the latest updates. 87

bazaar music

RED PILL BLUES

THE THRILL OF IT ALL

SCREAM ABOVE THE SOUNDS

Maroon 5's new album is here. The group shared the news of the release last month and followed with a series of teaser GIFs unveiling the track list later, as well as revealing the Snapchat-inspired album art on the app. Red Pill Blues features 10 songs, opening with a track titled "Best 4 U." Maroon 5's current single, "What Lovers Do" feat. SZA, is on the album, as well as collaborations with Julia Michaels ("Help Me Out"), LunchMoney Lewis ("Who I Am") and A$AP Rocky ("Whiskey").

The singer released the title of his second album and he dropped a new single, "Pray," to get fans hyped for the release. The Timbaland-produced song ups the tempo from the album's first single, "Too Good at Goodbye," but just a bit, adding in a classic stuttering Tim beat and gospel choir backing vocals as the singer laments, "I'm not a saint, I'm more of a sinner/ I don't wanna lose, but I fear for the winners/ When I try to explain, the words run away/ That's why I am stood here today."

The Welsh band’s follow-up to 2015’s Keep The Village Alive came out in October. Discussing the album earlier this year, frontman Kelly Jones said: “It’s a pretty big sounding record, as in it’s pretty anthemic.” It’s got a lot of different sounds, it’s a very contemporary-sounding record. It sounds like us doing whatever it is we do in our 20th year,” he added. “I dunno, there are ten songs on the album and they all sound different from each other, it’s exciting to play some new music.”

By Maroon 5

LOW IN HIGH SCHOOL

By Sam Smith

WHO BUILT THE MOON?

By Stereophonics

REPUTATION

By Morrissey

By Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

By Taylor Swift

Morrissey revealed more details about his latest album Low in High School. His first full-length since 2014’s World Peace Is None of Your Business is led by a new single, “Spent the Day In Bed.” According to a press release, the new album was produced by Joe Chiccarelli and recorded at La Fabrique Studios in France and Ennio Morricone's Forum Studios in Rome. After detailing the record, Morrissey shared new song “Spent the Day in Bed” and announced a U.S. tour. There is also a T-shirt available with the album pre-order, emblazoned with the song title “Who Will Protect Us From the Police?”

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds have announced their third album, Who Built The Moon? The album from the former Oasis guitarist and songwriter’s band came out Nov. 24 on Sour Mash, and features guest appearances from fellow U.K. rock legends Johnny Marr and Paul Weller. Gallagher has posted a kaleidoscopic video trailer featuring a clip of new music and some lyrics from the album. News of the album leaked before the formal announcement, prompting a response from Noel’s brother Liam, always eager to burn his former bandmate, on Twitter.

Taylor Swift has confirmed her new album, Reputation, came out on Nov. 10. Even though it's been nearly three years since Swift's 1989 -- which won the Album of the Year Grammy -- she hasn't been a stranger to the charts. Her 2016 Zayn duet "I Don't Want to Live Forever" from Fifty Shades Darker peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, just one spot shy of becoming her fifth No. 1. One thing is for sure: Swift is a blockbuster force. 2014's 1989, her fourth No. 1 album, became the fastest album to hit 5 million units since Usher's 2004 LP Confessions.

Source: www.amazon.co.uk

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NestleCafeKwt

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bazaar books

TURTLES ALL THE WAY DOWN

SLEEPING BEAUTIES

LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE

ANXIOUS FOR NOTHING by Max Lucado

THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF GUCCI MANE

#1 bestselling author John Green returns with his first new novel since The Fault in Our Stars. Sixteen-year-old Aza never intended to pursue the mystery of fugitive billionaire Russell Pickett, but there’s a hundred-thousanddollar reward at stake and her "Best and Most Fearless Friend", Daisy, is eager to investigate. So together, they navigate the short distance and broad divides that separate them from Russell Pickett’s son, Davis. Aza is trying. She is trying to be a good daughter, a good friend, a good student, and maybe even a good detective, while also living within the evertightening spiral of her own thoughts. In his long-awaited return, John Green, the acclaimed, award-winning author of Looking for Alaska and The Fault in Our Stars, shares Aza’s story with shattering, unflinching clarity in this brilliant novel of love, resilience, and the power of lifelong friendship.

In a future so real and near it might be now, something happens when women go to sleep: they become shrouded in a cocoonlike gauze. Titled Sleeping Beauties, Stephen King lists the following condition: if the girls are awakened, or even if the gauze wrapping their bodies is disturbed or violated, the women become feral and spectacularly violent. Mysteriously, while while they sleep they go to another place, a better place, where harmony prevails and conflict is rare. One woman, the mysterious “Eve Black,” is immune to the blessing or curse of the sleeping disease. Is Eve a medical anomaly to be studied? Or is she a demon who must be slain? Abandoned, left to their increasingly primal urges, the men divide into warring factions, some wanting to kill Eve, some to save her. Others exploit the chaos to wreak their own vengeance on new enemies.

In Shaker Heights, a placid, progressive suburb town of Cleveland, everything is planned, from the layout of the winding roads, to the colors of the houses, to the successful lives its residents will go on to lead. And no one embodies this spirit more than Elena Richardson, whose guiding principle is playing by the rules. Enter Mia Warren, an enigmatic artist and single mother – who arrives in this idyllic bubble with her teenaged daughter Pearl, and rents a house from the Richardsons. Soon Mia and Pearl become more than tenants: all four Richardson children are drawn to the mother-daughter pair. But Mia carries with her a mysterious past and a disregard for the status quo that threatens to upend this carefully ordered community. When old family friends of the Richardsons attempt to adopt a ChineseAmerican baby, a custody battle erupts that dramatically divides the town--and puts Mia and Elena on opposing sides.

Anxious for Nothing, the most recent book from New York Times bestselling author, Max Lucado, provides a roadmap for battling with and healing from anxiety. Does the uncertainty and chaos of life keep you up at night? Is irrational worry your constant companion? Could you use some calm? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. According to one research program, anxietyrelated issues are the number one mental health problem among women and are second only to alcohol and drug abuse among men. Even students are feeling it. One psychologist reports that the average high school kid today has the same level of anxiety as the average psychiatric patient in the early 1950s. Chances are, you or someone you know seriously struggles with anxiety. Stop letting anxiety rule the day and join Max on the journey to true freedom in this new book.

For the first time ever Gucci Mane tells his story in his own words. It is the captivating life of an artist who forged an unlikely path to stardom and personal rebirth. Gucci Mane began writing his memoir when he was in a maximum-security federal prison. Released in 2016, he emerged radically transformed. He was sober, smiling, focused, and positive, a far cry from the Gucci Mane of years past. In his extraordinary autobiography, the legend takes us to his roots in Alabama, the streets of East Atlanta, the trap house, and the studio where he found his voice as a peerless rapper. He reflects on his inimitable career and in the process confronts his dark past, years behind bars, the murder charge, drug addiction, career highs and lows, the making of a trap god. It is one of the greatest comeback stories in the history of music.

by John Green

by Stephen King

by Celeste Ng

by Gucci Mane

Source: www.amazon.co.uk

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THE SECRET TO QUALITY

Why McDonald’s always tastes so good! By bazaar staff

We all have a special relationship with McDonald’s. Prior to its Kuwait opening in 1994, family and friends of generations past who have frequented their signature burgers and fries during their travels have sung songs of high praise about the food. And considering that the concept itself is over 60-years-old today, there’s something to be said about how widely popular it remains to this day, and it all comes down to McDonald’s passion for quality in every aspect of its operations. It seems that you can’t drive around a local neighborhood without finding a McDonald’s within minutes! The chain is arguably the most popular franchise in not only the world, but in the country, and of all concepts, McDonald’s reigns supreme when it comes to even the healthiest of all eaters’ regular cheat day desires. When it comes to food in Kuwait, locals have a high standard of quality. This means that McDonald’s is doing something right, by maintaining and even exceeding that standard, which is expected by diners. It’s obvious that McDonald’s is very strict about their quality control. There’s a reason why that, no matter where in the world, when you order a signature Big Mac, or a container of their famous, crispy fries, their food will always taste like home – even if you’re miles away. Their 100% Halal-grade meat comes from the best sources. Juicy beef patties originate in Australia, where some of the world’s best cattle are raised, which explains why their burgers always taste so good! And those chicken McNuggets everyone can’t seem to get enough of? Only the finest quality, tender cuts of breast and thigh are used to make them into bite sized, crunchy and addictive nuggets that we’ve all loved since childhood. Got sauce? Farm to Counter is also an ethos that McDonald’s practices with gusto. To make its signature salads and delicious garnishes adorning its sandwiches, McDonald’s uses the finest quality fresh vegetables sourced from some of the best farms from around the world. Crisp iceberg lettuce, succulent tomatoes and delectable cucumbers are all freshly harvested, sealed and delivered to restaurants straight from the farm. We can’t forget about McDonald’s’ famous breakfast! Their breakfast meals are enough to make you alter your entire day just to get an Egg McMuffin. Wondering where those eggs come from? McDonald’s sources farm-fresh, premium quality eggs from certified local partners. And what about those iconic fries? These fries are loved by many internationally, and are irresistible, 92

Healthier mayo! McDonald's mayo now contains 50% less calories.

Complete transparency and the highest standards of food quality and safety.

making the perfect meal or snack for any time of the day. Their origins are also guilt-free, coming from 100% natural potatoes harvested from approved farms, and fried in non-hydrogenated vegetable blended canola and sunflower oil. No wonder they taste so good! But we could rave all day about how McDonald’s supplies great food made from great quality despite the expansion of its product. What is possibly the best thing about McDonald’s is how the brand puts in so much effort into ensuring utter transparency with its customers, especially when it comes to matters of quality. One of the company’s key priorities has always been upholding the highest international standards of quality, food safety and cleanliness, and this is something that continues to be an integral part of the McDonald’s ethos. McDonald’s has a knack for continuously and actively seeking to develop new innovative initiatives and platforms to engage with its customers and provide them with all the information they need about their brand. For example, in 2013, McDonald’s became the first and only quick service restaurant brand in the region to communicate nutritional information in its restaurants: on its packaging, and on its website - including a breakdown of the calories, fat, sodium, protein and carbohydrates found in each product. In an effort to help its customers make better food choices, and in light of changing customer preferences, McDonald’s recently implemented a number of significant enhancements to its menu across the GCC. Introduced as part of its ‘Every Day. A Better Day’ campaign, these changes allow customers to enjoy their favorite McDonald’s foods at an even better nutritional value. Long gone are those guilt-trips, as McDonald’s has truly adopted a health-conscious approach to its quality offerings that never compromises on flavor. Following the earlier milestone of reducing trans fats in McDonald’s fried food to 0.01%, the brand has now successfully completed the transition of its cooking oil to a sunflower and canola oil blend at all of its 500+ restaurants across the GCC, as well as across the entire supply chain. In fact, McDonald’s goers in Kuwait can take pride in the fact that brand here is a pioneer within the global chain, as it has been exclusively using a high quality 100% vegetable oil blend since 1994. This lighter oil blend offers an 80% reduction in saturated fat content. McDonald’s has also successfully reduced the fat content in its Classic Mayonnaise, with a new recipe that now contains 50% fewer calories. Developed after extensive research and product testing, the new mayonnaise cuts back on the calories without compromising on the delicious taste that customers love. Making sustainable sourcing the new normal is one of the top priorities at McDonald’s – both globally and in the region. As part of its sustainable fish policy, they also announced that, in the GCC, all the fish it sources comes from well-managed fisheries that only use sustainable fishing practices. The McDonald’s transparency initiatives also include the pioneering Open Door Program, which

100% pure Halal beef, from the world's best sources.

See it for yourself! Take an Open Door tour today. launched worldwide in 2006. The unique program set a precedent across the quick service food industry, with McDonald’s being the only quick service restaurant in the region to allow customers into its kitchen - for an up-close and unfiltered look at all procedures, processes and quality standards. Setting yet another precedent for the food and beverage industry, McDonald’s launched its innovative digital platform, “Your Right to Know”, across the region in 2015 with the aim of fostering an open and honest dialogue with the public. Through this interactive digital platform, customers are able to ask any and all questions that they have about the brand and its food – and are guaranteed factual and transparent answers to their every inquiry.

So, next time you find yourself at the Golden Arches, smile with pride that your choice of indulgence is actually a pretty good one. McDonald’s is great – it’s a classic. Just remember that their dedication to quality is not simply a short-term objective; it is an ingrained philosophy and a way of life that permeates into every facet of the McDonald’s experience.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mcdonalds.com/kw/en-kw.html. Follow McDonald’s Kuwait’s latest updates on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @McDonaldskuwait. 93

bazaar around town

STING COMING TO JACC KUWAIT 14TH AND 15TH DECEMBER Composer, singer-songwriter, actor and author Sting is coming to Kuwait this month, to play a concert at Sheikh Jaber AlAhmad Cultural Centre. Throughout his illustrious career, Sting has sold close to 100 million albums from his combined work with The Police and as a solo artist, and fans will be able to see him perform live in Kuwait on Thursday 14th and Friday 15th December. Sting was born in Newcastle, England before moving to London in 1977 to form The Police with Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers. The band released five studio albums, earned six Grammy Awards and two Brits, and was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. As one of the world’s most distinctive solo artists, Sting has received an additional 10 Grammy Awards, two Brits, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, four Oscar nominations (including 2017’s nomination for ‘’The Empty Chair’’ from Jim: The James Foley Story), a TONY nomination, Billboard Magazine’s Century Award, and MusiCares 2004 Person of the Year. Also a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, he has received the Kennedy Center Honors, The American Music Award of Merit and most recently, The Polar Music Prize. His latest album, 57th & 9th, was released in November 2016 followed by the critically-acclaimed 57th & 9th World Tour which recently concluded having performed 115 concerts throughout North America, Asia, Latin America & Europe. Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre opened in October 2016 as a multidisciplinary public space striving to entertain, educate and inspire the people of Kuwait. It offers a range of events – in music, theatre, film, workshops and spoken word – for every generation and sector of society. Sting is yet another huge name in an already impressive roster since Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre opened. Over the last year, they have hosted huge names in the world of arts, such as Andrea Bocelli, The London Symphony Orchestra, Omar Khairat, Yanni, Iranian Pop Star, Googoosh and many more. For more information on Sting, visit www.sting.com. For more on Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, or to book tickets, visit them online at www.jacc-kw.com, or follow on Twitter and Instagram @jacc_kw, or Facebook: SJACCkwt.

JIMMY CHOO UNVEILS BORROWED FROM THE BOYS CRUISE 2018 COLLECTION As part of the Cruise 2018 collection, Jimmy Choo introduces a capsule of styles that are literally Borrowed from the Boys with three styles from the Jimmy Choo men’s collection tailored for a women’s fit. The Borrowed from The Boys collection features 3 hero styles in a variety of fabrications that are available for both the Jimmy Choo woman and man. The androgynous style of a men’s loafer or evening slipper is timelessly modern and that is the essence of the collection, taking men’s signature silhouettes and tailoring them for a women’s fit respecting the form of each genders foot as it isn’t simply a case of offering smaller sizes. The TEDI is a refined loafer in high shine brushed leather with a playful flourish of fur decorating the front of the shoe and lining the interior presented in a tonal color palette. The TEDI is offered in black, slate and aubergine hues. The MARTI is a new loafer featuring a chevron-hemmed snaffle that echoes the buckle of Jimmy Choo’s signature LOCKETT handbag. It is presented in an assortment of tactile velvet, colored suede and a crushed black patent leather. The collection is available in all Jimmy Choo stores across Kuwait. Jimmy Choo enthusiasts are invited to explore the new collection in stores, and follow @alyasra on Instagram to find out more information and the latest updates.

KITOKO AGE-PREVENT RANGE Age-Prevent by Kitoko is the trio of products that provide the perfect balance of nourishing botanical extracts combined with new technology to combat the signs of ageing hair. The new hair therapy of cleanser, balm and scalp tonic treats fragile, thinning or dry hair with micro-algae extract, which is clinically proven to strengthen and thicken hair, and green coffee to stimulate the scalp, boost circulation and encourage healthy hair growth. Exclusively distributed by beautique cosmetics international. For more information, please call 2225 1285 or visit their website www.beautiquecosmeticsintl.com.

NEW LIMITED EDITION GLITTER GEM Tangle Teezer's limited edition Glitter Gem Compact Styler is its latest on-the-go detangling hairbrush in holiday-inspired multi-glitter. The Compact Styler is designed to detangle, define and deliver great hair on the move. This is all possible thanks to its unique two-tiered technology – the long teeth detangle and the short teeth smooth the hair cuticle for healthier-looking, glossy hair. With teeth that good, you'll want to keep them in tip-top condition, so the Compact Styler also comes with a protective cover, so no matter where you go, the teeth stay perfect. This new addition to the Tangle Teezer Compact Styler collection is its most dazzling yet. Exclusively distributed by beautique cosmetics international. For more information, please call 2225 1285 or visit their website www.beautiquecosmeticsintl.com.

WANTED! VIDEO PRODUCER Bazaar Studios is looking for a full-time videographer and producer to create, shoot, and edit high-quality, fun, creative, trending lifestyle and profile videos! * Good filming, video editing, writing, and communication skills are a must. * Capable of producing attention-grabbing social media content. * Well-versed with Final Cut, Photoshop. After Effects, Premiere Pro, Illustrator a bonus. * Preferably has own equipment. * Open to experimentation with content creation and aware of video trends. * Experience with meeting deadlines and quick turnarounds. * Ability to take direction and work well with a team or alone. * One-year experience or an extensive portfolio.

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Send your resume with cover letter and links to 3 or more videos to info@bazaar.town

bazaar around town

THE 43 SERIES MODELS: INTRODUCTION TO THE AMG BRAND WORLD An AMG is not just a car. It is an experience. It is driving performance from over four decades of engineering art that is in the DNA of every vehicle in the Mercedes-AMG range. Perched between the top-of-the-line AMG 63 and GT models and its standard models, are the Mercedes-AMG 43s. Introducing exciting new engines to the AMG stable, the MercedesAMG 43 range offers a powerful and dynamic driving experience. Available as SLC 43; E 43; C 43 Sedan, Coupé and Cabriolets; GLC 43 SUV and Coupé, as well as the GLE 43 Coupé; the unique AMG 43 motoring experience opens up a new world of driving for performance and technology enthusiasts who want an introduction into the AMG brand world. The typical combination of two numerals gives customers clear orientation. It is a clear promise that 43 models are AMG Performance vehicles – just like 63 and 65 model series. AMG Performance vehicles target an exclusive clientele of performance and technology enthusiasts. The 43 series model is seamlessly integrated into this portfolio. Attention to every technical detail – the special setup of the engine, transmission and suspension and the exclusive design and equipment delight from every perspective. The character of 43 series models can be tangibly experienced as true AMG’s in the areas of technology, exterior and interior. The AMG 43’s 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine has a power output of 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm thanks to its increased charge pressure. A modified engine control system and spontaneously responding turbochargers make the high-tech power plant extremely high-spirited. The 9G-TRONIC with shorter shift times is the perfect partner for the V6 sports engine, with multiple downshifts for fast sprints and an emotional double-declutching function in “Sport” and “Sport Plus”. The manual mode has an even sportier response – and the transmission does not automatically shift up on the rpm limiter. The Mercedes- AMG 43 range is available at A.R. Albisher’s Shuwaikh showroom. Please call 2495 0000 to book a test drive. For more information on Mercedes-Benz products and services in Kuwait, please visit their dedicated website www.kuwait.mercedesbenzme.com.

H&M HOME HOLIDAY 2017 – THE WINTER GARDEN COMES ALIVE This holiday season, H&M Home evokes the mystique of a winter garden. Think decadent red amaryllis, fresh green pine branches and crisp white hyacinth set against a twinkling night sky. Cozy textures, soft candlelight and luxe accents make the perfect setting for gathering friends and family around the dinner table or simply spending a relaxed and warm moment together. Lush floral patterns and chic metallics add a touch of glamour to the holiday season. There are three interpretations of the Winter Garden: Classic, Natural and Golden. The Classic Winter Garden revolves around the traditional red of the season, but with a more sophisticated and luxurious feel where glass and brass objects come in modernist shapes. The Natural Winter Garden is all about the forest – deep green pine, mosses and tree bark – enveloped in a casual, rustic setting. The Golden Winter Garden calls to mind a snowy landscape under the stars with white and gold as the driving forces, the glitter and gleam contrasted with fuzzy fabrics and soft knits. LIVING ROOM: Glass or ceramic vases, scented candles, candlesticks, tree decorations, throw blankets and cushions with floral motifs. KITCHEN: Mixing bowls, measuring jugs, matching aprons, cookie jars, gold confetti-printed tableware and glassware. BED AND BATH: Bedding with seasonal prints, cosy knitted fabrics, plush towels, scented candles and throw blankets. Follow H&M on Twitter @HMKuwait, Facebook and Instagram @HM.

AAW DEBUTS FIRST JYSK FLAGSHIP STORE IN KUWAIT Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co. (AAW) and JYSK have launched the first JYSK furniture store in Kuwait and the only one in the Middle East during a grand opening event at their new flagship showroom in Dajeej. JYSK Group is a fast-growing global retail furniture chain with more than 2,500 stores and 22,000 employees across 49 countries, with over 100 new JYSK stores launched around the world during the last year alone. The event marked the debut of JYSK in Kuwait occupying a 1100 sqm store, showcasing furniture and accessories, including mattresses, bedding and outdoor products. The event was attended by AAW Chairman and CEO Faisal Ali Al Mutawa, JYSK Kuwait Manager George A. Haidar, JYSK Franchise Director Frederik Kroun, JYSK Franchise Coordinator Magnus Thorn Andersen, French Ambassador to Kuwait H.E Christian Nakhlé, First Secretary to the German Ambassador in Kuwait Mr. Winfried Göres, in addition to representatives of leading media outlets. The store was open to the public on November 2nd and included many activities such as a Vikings act, face painting station for children and a photobooth accompanied by live music by DJ X all day. The JYSK flagship store is located in the Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa showroom at Dajeej, Airport Road 55. For customer support or more information, please call 222 61 884, or email JYSK@aaw.com. JYSK is open 7 days a week, from 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. Follow @JYSK_Kuwait on Instagram, Twitter and JYSK Kuwait on Facebook and YouTube.

20 seven

bazaar around town

ICONIC YOUTH FASHION SHOW EXPERIENCE: SEASON 3 ICONIC, the fashion different haven for the trendiest fashion in the region hosted Season 3 of the Youth Fashion Show Experience in November at the Rixos Premium Hotel, JBR. The AW’17 collection was showcased by fresh talent from across schools and universities walking the ramp for the very first time. In a special collaboration with Star Wars, Stormtroopers from the 501st Legion walked the runway to celebrate the launch of the new Star Wars fashion collection designed by ICONIC, including the first locally designed women’s fashion range in the Middle East. Adding glamour to the event was Lebanese singing sensation and youth icon, Saad Ramadan, who walked the ramp with Raza Beig, Director- Landmark Group and CEO, Splash, ICONIC and Landmark International cheered on by his fans. Catch the latest updates on the brand and highlights from the show on Instagram @iconicstoreme and on Facebook @IAmICONIC. Head over to ICONIC and shop their latest Autumn Winter collection available at The Avenues, The Mall, Level 1, Salam Mall in Salmiya and at Sama Mall in Fintas.

SEAL THE DEAL IN STYLE WITH SYMPHONY STYLE HOTEL KUWAIT In today’s competitive business landscape first impressions count, and that includes selecting the right venue for that allimportant business meeting, conference or networking event. Symphony Style Hotel Kuwait is THE place that ensures every event is a success – that’s a deal you can count on. Located in the hotel’s Prestige Tower and spread across six floors – from floors nine to fifteenth, the hotel’s 18 meeting rooms complemented by two Executive Boardrooms on the sixteenth floor form a perfect business center furnished with the latest facilities that enable organizations to seamlessly conduct business conferences and meetings. The rooms feature stylish and practical interiors with large windows allowing for plenty of natural sunlight and great views. Combined with state-of-the-art audio-visual and business conferencing technology, highspeed Wi-Fi connectivity, built-in screens and projectors, this enhances Symphony Style Hotel’s standing to host business meetings in Kuwait. The corporate facilities at the hotel offer the perfect venue for training sessions, conferences, meetings, events and corporate gatherings. Symphony Style Hotel Kuwait goes beyond the provision of world-class meeting space with the hotel’s two lavish ballrooms providing the perfect venues to host cocktail receptions, corporate dinners or gala events, where guests can relax and unwind. Ebreez Ballroom is an exceptional space with a carefully created interior that reflects the country’s natural desert landscape and can be entirely customized to meet the needs of an organization for a business event or function for 450 people banquets style. Breesim Ballroom, located next to Ebreez on the second floor, is a charming space with a delightful curved interior, carefully considered and with a capacity to host 150 guests, which is also extended on the same floor of the luxurious swimming pool, allowing you to host your guests around the pool terrace offering an outdoor dinner. Whether guests wish to perform a high-level meeting, video conference or training workshops, the dedicated staff offers unmatched professionalism. Furthermore, exclusive to the Prestige Tower, each floor of meeting rooms is equipped with breakout areas, which serve as a seamless extension of their adjoining business spaces. Serving a rich array of snacks and refreshments throughout the day – and overlooking the pool terrace and the bay beyond – each offers an ideal place to relax, catch up on work and networking. The Symphony Style Hotel is located in Salmiya. For more information, please visit www.symphonystylehotel.com, call 2577 0000 or follow them on Instagram @symphonystylekw for the latest updates.

PORSCHE CENTRE KUWAIT SUPPORTS THE RUNKUWAIT INITIATIVE Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, partnered with RunKuwait, the annual charity initiative spearheaded by Fawzia Sultan Healthcare Network (FSHN), a non-profit healthcare institution in Kuwait. Nearly 2,300 participants took part in this year’s race, which took place on Saturday, November 11th, and helped raise funds to support the treatment and care of children with disabilities referred for rehabilitation at FSHN’s Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (CERC). Supporting the RunKuwait initiative is in line with the company’s corporate social responsibility philosophy and their support is ignited by the noble cause behind the run. For the past seven years, the initiative has raised funds to support multiple community initiatives, and since 2013, RunKuwait dedicated all of its efforts to support the work of CERC, resulting in free healthcare services provided to 20 per cent of the children admitted to the facility, with a further 60 per cent of treatments subsidized by the initiative. Porsche Centre Kuwait currently supports multiple socially responsible initiatives including, Porsche Kids Driving School and Premier Sport Academy, which are aimed towards promoting and instilling responsible driving ethics and the spirit of sportsmanship respectively from the grassroots level onwards. For more information, please visit the Porsche Centre Kuwait in Al Rai, on the 4th ring road or call 1870 870.

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bazaar scopes

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

ARIES MAR 20 – APR 19

You may work hard to balance powerful forces. You may be torn between a lust for adventure and a need for communication. Either way, the bottom line is freedom to do and say the things you want. This is an important time to find yourself despite any opposition. You can't go wrong with anything involving higher learning, religion, or spirituality.

Tension in the romance department may arise for you. You want to get things started in a relationship that's important to you, yet something always seems to stand in the way of the plan. Instead of trying to sidestep your way into the picture, take a direct approach. If you don't try, you're just as bad off as if you'd tried and failed. Go for it.

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20

Matters of the heart are in your favor. You should prepare for a day full of social activities and good conversation. Your creative spirit may also be heightened. You can't go wrong picking the right item in a clothing store or flea market. Your taste for the elegant is impeccable, so feel free to indulge.

Use today's electric feeling to fuel your passion. A subtle tension has been building for some time. You've reached a critical turning point. Don't shy away from adventure because you fear failure. Change and open up your heart to the world. You may hesitate to make a move because you don't want to make waves, but how else are you going to advance in life?

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22 Try not to approach everything negatively. By doing so you may cut yourself off from incredible opportunities. This is a time to be expansive. Spread your wings and feel free to lift off the ground. Take greater pride in your work. You'll reach the goals that you strive for. Enjoy the path you're on. The journey is the reward.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22

When it comes to issues regarding romance, don't hold back. You shouldn't hesitate to act forcefully and confidently. Show others that you're serious. Don't back down as things heat up even more. This is a sign that things are progressing in your favor and you shouldn't mistake this intensity for anything but true passion.

Issues regarding romance could be a big part of the picture. The scales could tip either way in terms of your success at this game. The decision is up to you. You're probably better off keeping things light and entertaining. Reveal the scope of your passionate and powerful emotions on another day.

Romance isn't going perfectly for you. Things may be a bit unclear in this realm. Events may crop up today that will make it hard for you to ignore the issue any longer. Communication is key to helping you sort through the feelings associated with these issues. Don't be too judgmental in your approach.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 – DEC 21 There's an incredible activation urging you to take hold. You may have many different projects brewing and be unsure where to focus your energy. Don't feel like you need to make a decision now. Go with the flow, but don't lose control. It's important to maintain control while events unfold around you. Be flexible and adaptable.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19 In matters involving love and romance, things might get a little sticky. You might want to charge ahead with a plan, while a close partner wants to sit, discuss, and work things out together. Tempers might flare. You'd do well to be ready to compromise. A hotheaded approach will do more harm than good.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18 You won't have any idea how to fight if you don't know who your enemies are. Keep an eye out for people who try to bring you down. Their energy may be subtle so you might not even notice their influence at first. The planets are powerful this month, creating a manipulative power struggle that may hinder your expansion and prosperity. You have the willpower to overcome these challenges.

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 19 Issues regarding love and romance are in your favor. There's a strong force spurring you to take action. Heed this helpful energy. Feel free to display yourself openly in the social arena. Talk among friends could be rewarding for you now. All sorts of connections are favored for you this month. www.horoscope.com

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