bazaar magazine issue April 2012

Intr

The bazaar team...

Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Yusra Ahmad

Design Sumaiya AL-Shar han

Staff Writer/Social Media Yasmine El Char if

Staff Writer Kevin Smith

Communications Consultant Hala Y. Sharara

Editor A. Al-Duaij

Contributing Writers Abdulaziz Al-Hashash Abigail Mathias

It seems like every month we keep discovering more and more interesting people, places and initiatives, and this April is no different. In fact, prepping this issue reminded us of just how many hidden gems there are in our little society—it’s just a matter of seeking them out. With Earth Day on April 22, we thought it only appropriate to promote out those trying to make a difference, and were surprised at just how many innovative, eco-friendly initiatives are available in Kuwait – check out our In the Green feature for more details.

Speaking of ‘Green’, don’t miss Goji Boutique’s creative charity project, GOJI GIVES BACK, in collaboration with some of Kuwait’s favorite socialites.

Bibi Al-Falah

Remember @SultanAlQassemi? The super-human tweeter, who during the Arab Spring was reported to have tweeted at a speed of a tweet every 45 seconds? Who became one of the ‘must-follow’ tweeps for anything Middle East? Whether you remember him or not, make sure not to miss our interview with him where we talked social media, politics, the Middle East and government censorship. From our one-on-one with Hans Hess, the CEO and founder of the orgastronomic Elevation Burger, to Nitin Mirani, Jelly Shot, Lois London and the creative founder of the ever-so-stylish Vicomte A., Arthur de Soultrait— we bring you the story behind the sensation.The dining selections in our April issue will leave you craving a variety of international flavors; from the Asian-infused ubon, and Noodle Factory, to the delectable Q café and New York-style Heavenly Bagels – food is definitely one thing Kuwait does best!

Sumayyah Meehan

On a final note, for those of you who are addicted to their smart phones, ipads, and lap-tops, don’t forget that you can find the digital edition of bazaar on www.issuu.com/ bazaarmagazine with flipping pages,sound effects and other cool features. Spread the word and do your bit to save a tree.

British Industries for Printing and Packaging

Diva Undecided Dr. Juliet and Dr. Nisrine Jaye Sonia Lily K. Loaay Ahmed Strawberry Girl

Photographers Kevin Smith Natalia Sitcai Sultan Al-Qassemi Sumaiya AL- Sharhan Tina Patni Zahra Naseeb

Printing

LA Times Daily Star USA Today MTC International MIT Review Travel Times Hollywood Watch Tribune Media Services

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Freedom of expression. Something we never really think about until it’s gone. Here in Kuwait, other than the odd movie that gets butchered by the censors, you could always pretty much say what you want, wear what you want, and go where you want, as long as you respected those around you. Keep in mind that in some Middle Eastern countries, you can’t even talk politics in your own home for fear that someone very close to you might be an informant, and in other countries men with sticks walk around the malls, looking for an over-exposed ankle, or too much hair peeking out from under an abaya. Recently the winds have shifted here in Kuwait, and I’m sure you heard about Shurooq Amin’s exhibition, that we featured in last month’s issue of bazaar, being closed down the day it opened on grounds of ‘indecency’ and the month before, the movie The 99 was banned from being played in the local cinemas. Parliament recently discussed a proposed ‘decency law’ that would impose guidelines on what people can wear when they go out, and this is to be followed by a discussion on another proposed law, the ‘hijab law’ that would impose the wearing of hijab on all women in Kuwait. Kuwait has always had the most liberal press in the Middle East with dozens of outspoken newspapers and magazines, and all of them are doing their part to inform the public about these proposed changes. All we can do for now is hope that the voices of reason prevail, since these proposed changes would change the face of Kuwait forever.

Syndicates and Sources

Starbucks Coffee (65 branches) Cozmo - 4 branches Topshop Galleria Complex The Video Club Souk Sharq Energie Costa Café H&M Bredz Jacques Dessange Miss Sixty Airport Mall Häagen Dasz Virgin Megastore The One Café ACK (Australian College of Kuwait) AUK (American University of Kuwait) AUM (American University of Middle East) Boxhill College Marble Slab D’Lush Early Bird Café Harley Davidson Al-Kout Mall Centrepoint Café Johnny Rockets Pizza Express Al Corniche Club Kuwait Airways Oasis Club Shay W Nanaa Le PQ Cafe Boushahri Clinic Al Salam Hospital 4 x 4 Customs Ligne Roset Hard Rock Café Pilates & More Mowasat Hospital Camille Albane Dar Al Funoon I.O. Centers Cutting Edge Salon Dasman Diabetic Centre The Burger Hub Dunkin Donuts Waterlemon Café Supreme International Clinic Casper & Gambini’s Segafredo Cafe O Pao Cafe

The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

Happy Reading!

No one likes to be dumped;

recycle me, please.

Ahmed El-Adly

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tel. 24610017 - fax 24610018 info@bazaar-magazine.com www.bazaar-magazine.com

members of: www.bpaww.com

INDEX APRIL ' 12

38

44

82

62

108

UBON

MUSTAFA ABBAS

SIMPLY Q

LOIS LONDON

JELLY SHOT

A new Thai food haven is finally in town. Started by four friends and the culinary expertise of a Thai chef, ubon serves up your favorite Thai renditions in a modern setting, from that traditional green curry to fanciful pink curry noodles.

Get up close and personal with Mustafa Abbas, the visionary Emirati filmmaker whose life is defined by the magical world of film. Exploring the human soul as his muse, his feature film, Criminal, is to be released at the 2012 Gulf Film Festival.

Paying homage to their slogan, ‘Simple food made well’, Q café is the culinary hub located at the Village in Abu Hasaneya, serving up a dining experience filled with a bounty of tastes and a dessert menu that will leave you wanting more.

Reinventing the Kaftan, is no easy task. Fashionality Radhika Hernandez pulls out all the stops with her spectacular collection of Kaftans envisioned as embellished gowns, stylish jumpsuits and sassy dresses.

Bringing the hybrid tunes of Blues-rock to the rooftops of Kuwait, the evolving local talents of Jelly Shot are kicking up a storm of admirers across town. Mubarak, Khalid and Hashim talk music, lyrics and more in artist of the month.

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THE WITTY ONE

GOJI GIVES BACK

Truth or dare: Not only is Ayman Nassar an honorary bazaarite by sending us his incredibly written articles, he goes all out to make expats feel welcome in our good old k-town through his website and innate desire to make people laugh.

Online destination Goji Boutique bridges the gap between fashion and charity in yet another creative project with the leading men of our society by taking five fabulous guys on a mission for Treeshirt and Al Hayatt foundation.

Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet, and the winds long to play with your hair.

-- Kahlil Gibran

98

30

88

APRIL FOOL

@SULTANALQASSEMI

YOFORIA

A CULINARY HERITAGE

HANS HESS

Nitin Mirani, the ‘Glocal’ Comedian from Dubai, chats with bazaar about why he needs to make people laugh, why he'll always enjoy his shows more than the audience no matter how much they laugh, and what makes us all equal.

Dubbed the “twitter reporter” for his integral role in informing the world with minute-by-minute updates of events during the Arab Spring, Sultan Al-Qassemi tells us why there is more to him than merely his twitter handle.

Bringing something different to the already crowded frozen yoghurt market in Kuwait, Yoforia offers a fresh take with premium frozen yoghurt available in twelve flavors, a multitude of toppings and a unique self-serve concept.

The culinary talent and vision of Mrs. Salwa Najia includes that of a seasoned cook and loving mother at the same time. bazaar chats with Mrs. Najia about her culinary experiences, and her latest cookbook, Atbaq Wa Athwaq.

In town to ready the opening of the new store in Al Hamra Mall, the CEO and Founder of Elevation Burger sat down with bazaar to talk about what makes grass-fed beef so yummy, and let’s not forget about those Elevation fries.

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46

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G-STAR

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Awtad Kuwait City Bairaq Mall Baitak Tower Behbehani Complex Bida’a Complex BMW Showroom Daiya Co-op Dar Al Awadi Fashion World Salmiya Hilton Resort Jabriya Jabriya Land Keifan Khalifa Resort Kout Mall Marina Crescent Marina Mall Mishref NBK Nuwaiseeb Nuzha Co-op Plaza Hawalli Rosa Castle Salhiya Salmiya, Salem Al-Mubarak Salmiya Co-op Salwa Co-op Scientific Center Seif Hospital Shaab Shamiya Co-op

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Marina Mall/Crescent Casper & Gambini Chocolate Bar Johnny Rockets P.Q. Paul Virgin Megastore Souq Sharq Starbucks Haagen Dazs Breadz The Avenues Johnny Rockets Paul Pizza Express Crumbs Haagen Dazs Starbucks Airport Mall Pizza Express Starbucks Dar Al Awadi I.O. Center Spoons Chocolate Bar Salhiya Complex Starbucks

Stand Alones 4 Boutique A.W.A.R.E. Center Alghanim Marine

Beautylicious Brush Salon Cozmo Bowling - Salmiya, Kaifan, Discovery Mall, Mahboula Dar Al Funoon Gallery Tilal Goji Boutique Jacques Dessange Salon, Shaab Karizma Kuwait 4X4 Landmark - Al Rai café, Fahaheel, Salmiya London Limos N Bar N Style Pink Moon Boutique Sultan Gallery THE One The Video Club TIES Center Schools & Universities American International School American University of Kuwait Australian College Kuwait Boxhill College Universal American School Kuwait University Starbucks Khaldiya Starbucks Adeliya Starbucks Jabriya Starbucks Shuwaikh

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LA MARTINA

what's on?

DAR AL FUNOON

Iranian Contemporary Art Date: 23rd April to 10th May, 2012

Artist: Date:

Karim Ghidinelli 2nd to 20th April, 2012

Born in Brescia, Italy in 1976, Karim spent his childhood in this city. He received his Bachelors and Masters degree from Savannah College of Art & Design, where he also received the Excellence in Painting award. He has exhibited widely in the United States, France, the UK, Canada, Italy, Ireland and Kuwait and has participated in several art fairs including the Puerto Rico International Art Fair, and Art Miami Basel. His body of work consists of a central iconic image, that of a finger print, within each thumb print he has formulated a pseudocalligraphic narrative of life experiences on luminous and luxurious enamel weaves. He uses mixed techniques on metal with hues that are intense and vibrant. Karim manipulates the tradition of abstract expressionism and action painting with skillful and subtle knowledge.

The hand carved fingerprint is enlarged and delineated with the twists and turns that are unique to each individual.

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These are images of conflations and juxtapositions. Sabzi's paintings signify the crossroad of cultures and evoke one of the most pertinent signs of the multiculturalism that has been the hallmark of the arts in late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. His art represents that humanized perspective where in memory persists across cultural zones, even when and where it has no relevance. So many of his works speak of conditions where values and perspectives seep through the chinks of any culture's shield of protection. They are about the kind of interconnectedness that can no longer be undone; they are about the end of purity and the end of searching for origins and essence.

In Sabzi's paintings spaces of one world are filled with images from another. Forms circulate with irresistible energies even though they have risen from diverse psychological grounds. His Marilyn inimitable Warhol image, is now redefined through nineteenth century Iranian images and vice versa.

It is a stream of consciousness where two alien spheres of consciousness have coalesced and within which unfamiliar thoughts and forms are allowed to cohabit. The nineteenth century late Qajar images of "Wait until Tomorrow," superimposed over a Google satellite photo of modern Tehran, likewise tells us of the perseverance of the past in an age of technology. It tells us of memory's persistence to live on into our many days yet to come. It also gives rise to a new consciousness regarding our identities, as they are formed by the many streams of doubtful value and doubtful relevance. His FedEx, for example, bespeaks of how individuals, like commodity, are transported across cultural zones. It points out the abstract and the non-antic nature of individual identity in our globalized world. I should also say a few words about his "Encyclopedia of Natural Knowledge" where images of bugs, mirrors and a razor blade are juxtaposed. The work benefits from a plentitude that intensifies the contrasts and tensions of his imagery. It has a creatural realism that is wholly threatened by devices, by man's insistence on dragging everything into its own sphere of activity and beliefs. Here, almost all concepts arrived at are as easily deconstructed.

"The Event-Art & Fashion" Date: April 28-May 1 The Event will be sponsored by Goji Boutique and Qumar14 and will be filled with an eclectic mix of designers who compliment each other, providing the visitors with an inspiring and unique shopping experience.

To add to excitement Join them and feast your eyes!

Dar Al Funoon is located in Al-Watiah, Behbehani Compound, House No.28. For more information please call 2243 3138 or log onto www.daralfunoon-kw.com SADU HOUSE

Gulf handicrafts: new interpretations, new horizons Opening : 7 May 2012, 5pm-8pm Exhibition Hours: 8 May, 9am - 1pm & 4- 8pm

9 May, 9am - 1pm

For its launch exhibition, Zeri Crafts presents the richness of Gulf handicrafts, blending traditional and modern design to create unique and expertly crafted contemporary pieces. An exquisite limited collection of hand-woven textiles inspired by the bedouin art of Sadu weaving, and award-winning designer/ silversmith Nedda El-Asmar's take on the modern mabkhar, the Gulf's iconic incense burner, will be unveiled. Join us on this cultural journey from Kuwait to Laos and Brussels in the brand’s quest for new interpretations of our Gulf heritage.

artwork, ideas and colors, and other artistic values, in which I must find answers that depend on my experience, formed through viewing the expressions of others, as well as their creative processes.

Here, at this exhibition I’m giving attention to the inputs of heritage, the concept of modernism and significance of producing without alignment with any of them at the account of the other. Art is a reservoir of images and signs which imagination provides with a relative status and value. To me, it is a mere dictionary from which I select whatever I want and formulate it according to my style, feelings and imaginations.

figurines. The ceramics are simple shapes and have little to no recognizable painted-glaze imagery; instead the surfaces are abstract and graffiti-like with elements of collage and assemblage. Organized into groups based on type-style, the ceramics will be displayed on wooden shipping crates at different levels to resemble the unloading of shipping cargo.

Sadu House is located in Kuwait City, on Gulf Street, next to the Kuwait National Museum. For more information please call 9940 2406 or email info@zericrafts.com.

Visit www. zericrafts.com.

Gallery Tilal is located in Shuwaikh, Jahra Road, Tilal Complex, M3-M4. For more information please call: 222 56101 or email gallerygallery@hotmail.com.

You can also check out their facebook page.

PUMA

GALLERY TILAL

SULTAN GALLERY

Sultan Gallery is located in South Sabhan, Block 8, Street 105, Building No. 168. For more information please call 2471 4325 Ext. 110 or email sultangallery1969@gmail.com.

Artist: AbdulRasoul Salman Title of Exhibition: Rythms Date: 15th -26th April 2012 AbdulRasoul Salman describes his work: My relationship with reality is not a direct portrayal, but meeting that exceeds reality in an attempt to connect transcendence with unconsciousness, freedom and bringing uncustomary symbols from life with my interest in idea and colors. I believe that freedom in art does not shatter everything and brings mere thoughts. However, it’s the free commitment which accepts personal aspects in their own adjectives, and addressing more attention to what is human. Painting for me is an aesthetic and a formative human experience, which usually starts with the self, reality, near and far events, and I’m usually attracted to things which inspire me, whereby I have an intimate desire to produce something… In this phase, I’m very interested in translating such feelings and events into visual image, whereby I’m searching for all favorable conditions which complete the success of this experience. Upon each experience, many questions complete together in connection with the topics of my

Artist: Reinaldo Sanguino (in collaboration with

Dean Project gallery, New York) Title of Exhibition: Reinaldo Sanguino: New Works New York City - Kuwait City Dates & Timings: 17th April - 10th May, 2012 Opening: 17th April 2012, 7- 9pm

18th April, 10am - 4pm & 7- 9 pm.

19th April–10th May, 10am- 4 pm.

(Closed on Fridays & Saturdays) Based on the practice of using Meissen Porcelain as diplomatic exchange gifts by European Courts during the eighteenth century, this body of work is a contemporary and personalized reexamination of the diplomatic gift exchange tradition as a form of relationship building. The exhibition highlights the role ceramics played in gift exchanges to form relationships, and Sanguino creates groups of ceramic works that range from utilitarian shapes— pitchers, bowls, plates, cups, containers, etc.—to decorative forms such as vessels, sculptures, and

Mix.Match.Design & Create with PUMA Creative Factory “Built For One” T7 Jacket activation Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the classic PUMA T7 Track and win an all expenses trip to Dubai with PUMA Creative Factory “Built For One” T7 Track Jacket activation.

Alongside regional artists, bloggers, musicians and filmmakers from Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain Saudi Arabia and the UAE, you can design and create your own version of the iconic T7 Track Jacket at the PUMA Creative Factory workshop in Dubai on 26 April – and own something that no-one else in the world does.

All you have to do is log onto https://apps. facebook.com/builtforone/home, pick your country, go crazy with the colours, patterns and motifs and upload the jacket to the gallery. Your design will then be put to a public vote with 6 winners from the Middle East jetting to Dubai for the PUMA Creative Factory T7 Workshop.

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PLT CHOOSES CHARITY Pretty Little Things has gone regional, and with a charitable cause.

By bazaar staff

The first Pretty Little Things took place last December, and we fondly remember the twinkling light-strung trees, trays of floral ceramic pots filled with aromatic tea, flickering tea light candles and baby yellow roses enchanting visitors, who cozied up with checkered blankets on golden park benches. Inside the venue, a hand-selected group of vendors showcased their wares in an intimate and friendly setting.

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This social event was started by Noaf Hussein as a way for creatives, the curious, and those who appreciate the smallest of nuances to get together, shop, chat, and network with bloggers and each other in a beautiful setting. It's about the small details, the ones that make you smile—the pretty little things.

The next Pretty Little Things, taking place April 28th - May 1st will take place at the hertiage site that is Bait Al Sadu. A collaborative project with the

help of Abyat, the effort of this PLT edition is aimed at renovating the local orphanage already taken on by the non-profit organization Khair Al-Kuwait Charity Foundation. In addition to the materials donated by Abyat, event-goers will be able to take part in the charity installation or pledge items from a wish list to complete the renovation. The second Pretty Little Things will also see an exciting lineup of brands by the likes of Saudi Arabian labels Razan Al Azzouni, Fyunka, Sotra Boutique, Bahrani-produced and packaged Green Bar Inc, and local brands like May Jewelry, Peices By Farah, Th'haba, Paper Design Nest,.

A project by Noaf Hussein: Noaf Hussein has previously done work for Closet Candy, Bazaar Interiors, Haifa Kaftans, Goji Boutique, Nbar, Tatami, and numerous print publications. PLT is a personal project.

About Abyat: Abyat's exceptional showroom, considered the biggest retail store of its kind in the Middle East, carries over 30,000 reasonably priced, highquality products. Abyat is a closed shareholder group. The idea, concept, and brand identity were developed 100% locally, with the ambition of becoming the market leader across the GCC. With the highest of international standards, Abyat aims to provide all a homeowner may need from materials to services.

For more information about PLT, follow their tweets: www.twitter.com/PLTQ8 and facebook, www.facebook.com/PLTQ8.

VICOMTE A. Interview with Arthur de Soultrait, founder of Vicomte A. By bazaar staff

Turning an unfortunate incident to his advantage during his last year at business school in Paris, Arthur de Soultrait applied for an internship with a small company in the US. One week after taking up his job, he was informed that the company was going bankrupt. Luckily for Arthur, in his suitcase was a selection of tasteful ties he had brought over from France, and he put his young sales skills to work in order to raise the money he needed to return home. With the considerable funds he collected, not only did he return home, he even created his own line of 100% silk ties under the label, “Vicomte A.”. This line was closely followed by a selection of belts, and brightly colored polo shirts, only to experience further success by attracting the likes of young businessmen.

The Vicomte A. brand soon became distinguished with luxury, classical chic, emboldened by bright and daring colors, and an inimitable finish in matching colors and prints with the lining and the seams. Today, Vicomte A. produces a total look, from casual sportswear (including shirts, sweaters, driving shoes, smart house slippers, 48 hour travel bags), to hunting attire, a line for polo teams, and a woman’s and children’s ready to wear collection. With the upcoming opening of the Vicomte A. flagship store in Kuwait, we interview the founder himself about his exciting business.

As a brand, what is the Vicomte A. vision?

Vicomte A. is a young Polo and sportswear brand at heart. We are classical, yet non-traditional, fun and fresh. As a young team, we all love fashion, and we design for the younger generation.

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How did Vicomte A.develop as a brand?

At first, the signature product for Vicomte A. was the line of ties. One year later, we wanted to make the Vicomte A. logo famous, and then we expanded the line into polo shirts for the first two years. The shirts were loved by young customers and picked up popularity in Paris and other big cities. With that success, we expanded the team, the brand, the quality of the fabrics we use, and our next aim was to go globally. Now we carry a men’s and women’s line, and soon kids’.

What will the Vicomte A.boutique in Kuwait include?

It will include all of our collections, as it will be one of our main flagship stores in the world, it will also be one of our biggest flagship stores. Our brand new concept that we are launching soon will be a part of the Kuwait store, making it one our most exciting Vicomte A. stores worldwide.

What do you think of the local and regional market, do you think the your product fits well with our region?

Yes, absolutely. We know we have a loyal customer base from what we have seen with our store in St. Tropez and another recent visit to Dubai. People here are very well-cultured, well-traveled, and they love easy-wear clothing that is simply stylish. Because we know that customers here are lovers of style, we felt that they would interact well with our brand.

Does the Vicomte A. collection change every year? Or does it have one common recurring theme?

For every season, there are two parts to our collection. The first part illustrates the pure Vicomte A. style which we see with every season. The second

part has a story with every collection, based on what we see is fashionable and current with the Vicomte A. customer. We take a story that is different from our core branding, or our core style, and expand upon it. We take an interesting story and give it a Vicomte A. element.

So what is the inspiration, or story, for this summer?

With the new collection, our story illustrates the new traveler, discovering new places that surprise him as he travels all the cities of the world. This, in turn, is reflected in his style with new materials and fabrics that we’ve incorporated. The collection is suited for the world traveler, including cargo chic essentials with an innovative, futuristic edge. At the same time, it is easy to wear and flexible, with vibrant colors.

What is the signature Vicomte A. style?

The main link in every collection includes all the details and quality that goes into making each garment, as well as the bright colors we like to work with. We employ only the best cottons from Peru, or Italy, and most of our products are produced in Europe, an aspect that is very hard to come by nowadays due to costing difficulties for mass market production. The colors are always young and fresh and our details are known to be interesting to make the garment appealing inside and out. One unique fabric, such as a double-sided kind, would make a traditional blazer seem lighter, and even more stylish than the usual.

Vicomte A will be opening soon in phase II of the Avenues. For more information, please visit www.vicomte-a.com.

SULTAN AL-QASSEMI Writer, news commentator and more By bazaar staff

You’d be forgiven for thinking of Sultan AlQassemi as only the “twitter reporter” but there’s a lot more to the man than his social media handle.

A fellow at the Dubai School of Government, he has written articles for The New York Times, The Financial Times, Foreign Policy, Open Democracy, The Independent, The Guardian and Gulf News. He also holds down a 9-5 job in the family office in Sharjah and established the Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah in 2010.

But there is no denying the pivotal role he played in the uprisings across the Arab world in 2011. He was integral in letting the word know what was happening during this tumultuous time. He translated Arab news sources into English so the whole world could understand what was happening. There are stories of him tweeting once every 45 seconds, and how he continued tweeting even while attending a wedding.

As analysts still try to put a value on the role social media played during the revolutions in Egypt, Tunisia, and more recently Syria, Al-Qassemi emerged as a news source all of his own, digesting local area happenings and reducing them to 140 character nuggets of news.

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bazaar was honoured to be able to interview Sultan Al-Qassemi and learn a little more about the man behind the handle better known to the world as @SultanAlQassemi; a handle that earned him a spot in the best 140 twitter feed list generated by the Times, AlQaseemi is also recognized by Gulf Business magazine for being one of the top 100 most influential Arabs.

Why did you choose twitter as your main medium of communication? What do you like most about using twitter, and other social media channels?

I feel I didn’t choose twitter, I happened to be on it when the uprisings started in Tunisia back in December 2010. twitter allowed me to send out “news bites” as events were unfolding. Writing a blog would have taken around 30 minutes and in those days, every second counted.

Why do you think twitter played an integral role during the Arab Spring?

The Arab world saw an exponential growth in the number of people who used social media including Facebook and twitter, with the heavy censorship of state media the only avenue of communication for the masses was, and remains to be, social media.

Do you think that social media will continue to play a major role in change for the Middle East?

It is unlikely that Arab governments will ever understand that their news outlets are not trusted by a large part of the population, therefore people will continue to turn to social media to get alternative views, for breaking news and instant updates.

Did you always know you wanted to be a ‘twitter reporter’? twitter is only five years old and I have had ambitions before it was founded. I don’t consider myself to be a twitter reporter, I translated episodes of the Arab uprisings and now use it to tweet my reading material.

People also assume I agree with all I tweet, which is not the case, this is largely due to the fact that they are not used to the alternative opinions due to government controlled media.

Besides being a much-followed reporter via twitter, and social media conversationalist, what are some of your career goals?

I established the Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah in 2010 to promote art from the Arab world. So far we have had five major exhibitions showcasing masterpieces of

modern and contemporary Arab art. I have also taught in university, which is something I look forward to going back to in the future.

Describe a typical day in the life of Sultan AlQassemi.

Many people don’t know I have a 9-5 job, a family office in Sharjah. I also started traveling a lot to speak about social media, reform and the Arab uprisings.

Do you see social media, specifically twitter, replacing traditional news sources?

Many news outlets, especially in the Gulf will die a slow death due to their inability to adapt to the changing environment that social media has caused. That said, social media is not always a trusted source, we are in need of the hierarchies of news organizations in many cases, but not all verify the news before carrying it.

Do you believe that social media channels such as twitter are objective mediums of news reporting?

Most of the individual users on twitter post their opinions so it is very much subjective. A few people like NPR’s Andy Carvin have established a niche of aggregating news from various sources and verifying it without including their opinions.

Are there any emerging social media channels that you are utilizing?

I am trying to use Google+ but it is still suffering from teething problems, which I hope they can sort out soon.

Do you think governments censor/will censor social media channels?

We have seen many users discouraged from posting their opinions on social media due to a campaign reminiscent of McCarthyism of post World War II USA (I had written a piece on this issue for Gulf News). Sadly, Gulf governments are using their outdated media laws to censor 21st century social media exchanges.

Do you see governments in the Middle East aligning themselves with social media channels in the future?

Many governments are already on social media; Bahrain is the most glaring example. Most officials have either public or private profiles. This is both a positive and negative development, it is too early to say how this will affect social media use in the medium to long term.

We once read that you were able to keep your followers up to date about what’s happening in

Tahrir Square while you were at a wedding! How did that happen?

I was at a family friend’s wedding that I was obliged to attend although my mind was elsewhere. This was the Friday before Mubarak stepped down; I was watching Al Jazeera on my phone via 3G and tweeting the latest updates (it ended up costing me a lot of money but it was worth it.)

Finally, what does your twitter feed look like?

It is now swamped. I used to follow less than 130 people, now I am nearing 900. The truth is I felt guilty not following all these quality people before – most of whom I did not know were following me including presidential contenders, Egyptian members of parliament and major news reporters and intellectuals.

I follow them so they are able to 'direct message' me if they need to, but I must admit my twitter experience is not better for it due to the sheer number of tweets I get.

Follow Sultan Al-Qassemi at www.twitter.com/ SultanAlQassemi. Images of Sultan are courtesy of Mohamed Nanabhay.

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truth or dare

THE WITTY ONE Ayman Nassar By bazaar staff

An Egyptian born and raised in Kuwait, Ayman exemplifies the definition of an expat in Kuwait.

Having spent the majority of his life right here, both as a child and an adult, he has a working knowledge of life in Kuwait and how to bridge the gap between professional and social life.

A self-proclaimed writer/blogger, he is a fulltime working professional and an occasional sports enthusiast with a sometime manic tendency to try new things. He explains, “When I came back to Kuwait to start working, life was hard. I found that the social life school had provided no longer existed outside its hallowed corridors, and we had to make our own path in terms of meeting people.”

Ayman adds, “The first 2 years were difficult, reestablishing connections was next to impossible as the majority of the friends you had during school were transients; everyone left to some corner of the globe. At first, I relied heavily on networking at the office; then it became clear that you needed a social life separate from your work life. So as most people do, I turned to the Internet for assistance.”

The result of Internet dabbling provides us with his insightful blog, one that he created to pass the time and nurture an ability he believes he has: coming up with witty articles for people to read. He adds, “I found myself hosting my own blog and calling myself a writer as opposed to blogger, as it catered more to good reading rather than a recollection of my day-today activities. It was when a friend convinced me to try sending a few pieces to bazaar (which they later 32

accepted) that I felt I had accomplished something and was worthy of the moniker.”

In an attempt to give back to the expat community, Ayman actively participates on a forum that groups current and potential expats together, giving sound advice that has caused the makers of the forum to give him the title ‘Kuwait Animator’. Whether it’s new expats wondering about life in Kuwait or current expats wondering what to do for fun, he is there to answer their queries with dedicated advice.

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Reckless! Seriously, I asked!

How would you describe your mother in one word?

S’et El Habayeb – lady loved by all in Arabic. It’s also an Egyptian folk song that describes her to a T. What is the most insane question you’ve ever been asked?

During university I used to have really long hair and very little facial hair (not that I shaved, it just wouldn’t grow), which opted some folks (strangers, mind you) to ask me “are you a guy or a girl?” I didn’t know whether to be flattered or insulted (now that I think of it, the latter was probably truer).

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Dyed my hair blonde as a social experiment!

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Eh? Both English and phonetic Arabic!

Where would you like to live? / What is your dream retirement location?

A mountain side cottage with lush green surroundings, a nearby river or stream would also be quaint. I’m basically interested in any break from technology where one can just unwind surrounded by beautiful scenery. The hustle & bustle of the city life has become too hectic to maintain for the golden years!

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

Failure is unimportant; it takes courage to make a fool of yourself – Charlie Chaplin.

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Seahorse – they mate for life, and that is what I was looking for, a mate for life. Seahorse rhymes with Shrouk, Shrouk is my seahorse.

What do you miss about your childhood?

Blissful ignorance and simplicity. Nowadays children have gadgets galore, whereas before you made friends with nothing more than a football (or a Barbie doll) and a friendly manner.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

Adam. Since it’s too late to change my name, I had sought to name my future child Adam; unfortunately I told my brother this and he beat me to it (I’m kidding, I love my Nephew!). So now I’m looking for other names that work well in both Arabic and English and start with an A. How would you describe your handshake in one word?

Relaxed.

What is the toughest part of your character?

I put others’ needs ahead of my own even when arguing, which makes it difficult for them to accept that I am acting in their best interest.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

The great emancipator: Abraham Lincoln. He ushered an age of equality that was missing in history.

What in the world do you least desire?

Ease, as in lack of challenges. The harder you work to achieve something, the greater the sense of accomplishment at the end.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which would make the world a better place?

Laughter; it truly is the best medicine to cure all ails.

Laugh Out Loud, literally, not the useless typed one.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

My witty sense of humour; I don’t mind being the butt of the joke to incite a chuckle in those around me.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”

Family.

For more information on Ayman, visit: www.mybloogle.com or follow @lordaymz on twitter.

closet Bibi

CROSS-CULTURAL ATTIRE

By Bibi Al-Falah

After a recent weekend trip to Dubai, I noticed just how confusing dressing up could be. In Kuwait, things are more conservative. Some women may be covered while others are not, but generally people dress respectfully and don’t show too much skin or wear things that are too short. In Dubai, it is extremely confusing! I walked around the mall and saw some people in miniskirts while the locals wore the traditional “Abaya”. I noticed some of the covered women giving the less covered women looks, but what can they really do in a city that has not become a melting pot of cultures and nationalities?

No matter where you are, when it comes to dressing up you must always take the local culture into account.

Not just generalizations based on the country, it can boil down to the specific city. Dubai has become an extremely dynamic city with people from all over the world. As my friends and I were walking around the Mall of the Emirates, we joked that if we were blindfolded and thrown into this mall for the first time, we would never be able to guess what country we were in! I 34

understand why some of the conservative ladies were giving the less covered foreigners stares, but they should also take where they are into context. If they were in a more localized city in the Emirates then they would have a greater right to do so. At the same time, it is difficult for an outsider to come into an Arab country and change the way they are used to dressing.

Generally, if you look like a foreigner you can get away with much more. If you look Arab, however, even a sleeveless top can generate many disapproving stares.

Personally, I think that everyone should wear what they feel like wearing with respect to the culture and place they are going. If you are just going to a friend’s place then it should technically be ok to wear sleeveless, but even driving in a car can be uncomfortable if a jacket isn’t thrown on for the ride. We can live with this reality and be respectful to the culture because it is not extreme or unreasonable.

When I heard about a law that was proposed last month to impose the head cover for women in Kuwait, however, I was appalled. This is when you take “cultural

dressing” to a whole new level and step on our freedom as Kuwaiti women, or any woman living in Kuwait. We understand that wearing sleeveless tops or shorts is inappropriate and would never do so in public, but a head cover is something personal and should never be imposed on somebody if they don’t wish to do it. I completely respect women that have it, but will never agree to being forced into wearing it. This is our home, and this is the line at which our freedom will no longer be ours.

I hope that our freedom will be protected, and have found that this general rule of thumb works: dress in what makes you feel comfortable as long as you are respecting the cultural norms. A foreigner might feel comfortable in cut-off shorts and a tank top, but that look is better reserved for a private beach club rather than the Avenues. It’s impolite to offend people, but at the same time, we shouldn’t feel that we must be overly conservative if it is not in our nature. May we always have the freedom of choice, have a stylish April everybody!

GIVEKUWAIT Wataniya Telecom empowers youth By bazaar staff

NOW PREPAID INTERNET IS ALSO HIGH-SPEED INTERNET

We all are faced with the question, how can I give back to my country?

We all strive to do our part in many different ways, coming up with better environmental solutions, encouraging a healthy economy, supporting local businesses, and much more. In yet another spectacular gesture that is GiveKuwait, Wataniya Telecom goes above and beyond in answering this question.

In an effort to engage the local media and bloggers to encourage young, innovative minds to participate in GiveKuwait, Wataniya hosted a fabulous evening at the ultra hip Japanese Restaurant, Tatami, where the friendly Wataniya communications team presented the details of GiveKuwait to the attendees, stressing the importance of empowering talent, and maximizing the potential of creative minds in Kuwait. After the presentation, members of the press, along with a prominent selection of bloggers, took turns asking questions as to how they could participate in raising awareness, and how GiveKuwait would give back to the participants.

What is GiveKuwait?

GiveKuwait is Wataniya’s initiative to empower talent and give young people a chance to maximize their potential. This is a platform that will give young stars an opportunity to shine by giving them exposure, connectivity and development. This year, GiveKuwait is going to be much bigger, giving participants the opportunity to showcase new products and gain knowledge.

Benefits of GiveKuwait?

Wataniya is looking for innovative ideas, products and services and GiveKuwait will put selected participants on the path to success! Wataniya will organize one of the largest exhibitions of its kind, where more than 100 participants will receive free space and booths in the exhibition hall for five days. An advertising campaign will showcase the selected participants via radio, billboards and press ads. Not only so, the GiveKuwait website will allow for the constant promotion of participants, as they will be able to further promote their innovative ideas, products, and services via the GiveKuwait 36

website and smartphone app.

Throughout the month of March, members of the press, along with a wide selection of bloggers, continued to broadcast the event, and all the details about GiveKuwait, through their various tools of communication, including twitter and facebook, calling on all young entrepreneurs to participate and register for this opportunity. The gesture of communicating this message alone is an empowering one, showing a great sense of community, and a productive viable synergy between corporations and citizens alike, working together towards honoring a greater good.

We cannot wait to see the final exhibition, which starts on the 12th until the 16th of April at the Mishref International Fair Grounds! For ambitious entrepreneurs, remember that greatness only comes with daring to begin.

For more information about GiveKuwait, please visit www.wataniya.com/givekuwait.

Visit Wataniya Telecom on www.wataniya.com, follow them on Twitter, by visiting www.twitter.com/wataniyatelecom, or check their latest updates on Facebook, www.facebook.com/Wataniya, and their latest posts on Kuwait’s first telecom Blog, www.wataniya.com/blog.

NIKE

bazaar goes dining

UBON Traditional Thai food served in a modern setting By bazaar staff

In England we love our curry, and being English I’m no exception. Whether it’s Indian, Thai, Sri Lankan or Nepalese, if it’s called curry I’ll eat it! So I was more than pleased when I landed in Kuwait and discovered there’s much love for chicken curry and biryani. But what I have been missing is the sweet hint of coconut in the traffic light colors of Thai cuisine – the red, green and yellow curries.

I wouldn’t really say I snatched the assignment to try out this new Thai restaurant but let’s just say nobody else really got a look in. Much to the dismay of our photographer, but to my delight, she’d forgotten about the assignment and eaten lunch before we set off – all the more for me! ubon is a local concept started by four friends.

They employ a Thai chef who created an authentic menu that apparently features more than a couple of secret recipes that I’m certain not even the owners could squeeze out of him.

The subtle entrance is an unassuming black door flanked by floor to ceiling windows. The name ubon, in gold, above the door only nods to what’s inside. When you take a closer look at the door (I only noticed upon exiting as I was in a rush to 38

get in) you’ll notice it’s constructed of blackened, burnt wood which continues, covering the walls inside. I later am told that this is shou-sugi-ban, or burnt sugi boards, which is a traditional Japanese technique of treating wood to cover house exteriors.

The sugi boards are contrasted by the raw concrete in the form of a pillar and window casings resulting in a traditional-meets-modern look. The décor inside follows this theme; the classic combination of black, with hints of gold, suggests a minimalist approach with a hint of luxury.

For appetizers we tried the Ubon Jumbo Prawns which were not only plump and tasty, but topped with air-dried garlic which adds a great depth of flavor. We opted for the Chicken Satay Sticks over the beef ones which are both offered on the menu.

Ubon’s Peanut Sauce, which accompanies the satay, perfectly complements the chicken.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, ubon has a variety of salads on offer. The Green Papaya Salad is as refreshing as it is crunchy with a hint of chili heat that everyone should be able to enjoy, even those who don’t like their food too spicy.

The Chicken Green Curry has always been my default choice when it comes to Thai food and so I

wanted to put ubon’s up to the test. It measured up no problems - the perfect balance of creamy without being too heavy, fragrant, and packing a nice chili punch. For the non-heat-seekers you may ask for it a little milder as bazaar’s poor photographer realized too late with eyes watering. I found it to be perfectly balanced and just spicy enough however, so it all depends on your preference. We tried the Jasmine Steamed Rice with the curry and it’s light, fluffy and the perfect accompaniment to Thai curries. We also ordered the Vegetable Fried Rice which is a tasty enough side order in its own right (I’d suggest the plain rice with the curries) but was also the perfect partner to the Stir Fried Pepper Beef Garlic though. This tenderloin beef comes with mixed vegetables and oyster sesame sauce, which is very tasty, and some more air-dried garlic, which you’ll leave wanting more of!

It wouldn’t be Thai food without noodles though, would it? I’ve always been a fan of Pad Thai but decided as I’d gone the usual route with my curry, I’d be a little more adventurous with my noodles. Pink Curry Noodles seemed like the perfect dish for such abandon. All of the curries and noodles come as vegetarian options and so

I took this dish sans prawns. The rice noodles go perfectly with the (not so) spicy pink curry sauce and was extremely enjoyable.

When you think of Thai food, desserts aren’t something that immediately spring to mind. Going

the traditional route I decided to try the Sticky Rice and Mango. I’ve always been a fan of rice pudding and this is a very similar affair. The fresh mango adds the sweetness and flavor to the dessert. Mindful of the market though, they will be offering a few more none

traditional desserts soon to cater for everyone’s tastes.

They offer a valet parking service in the evenings and they have a great, social media integrated, website to keep you up to date with all that’s going on. They do not accept reservations, preferring to leave the chance to dine here open to everybody.

Currently they are only open in the evening but will be offering a dedicated lunch menu soon.

If you’ve been on the lookout for decent, authentic Thai food ubon will certainly impress.

If you haven’t tried Thai food before then this place will be a great introduction – great food in great surroundings!

Ubon is located in Kuwait City. See www.ubonkw.com for a detailed map and more information. Alternatively you can call 2226 0848.

39

GEEK CLEANING TIPS Defrag Your Life!

By Jaye Sonia Well bazaarites, it is April already and that means our outdoor social lives are about to jump into gear. For starters, it is finally warm enough to fire up the BBQ, invite a few friends over, and lounge around the pool. Of course, before we do that, we need to clean house (and goodness knows that we geeks tend to accumulate our fair share of gadgets). Lucky for us, spring is the best time for cleaning.

So, while I’m tempted to review some of the neat gadgets that just came out, I think it might be better to just talk about getting rid of the old before we discuss acquiring the new! So, without further adú, here’s my super awesome geek cleaning tips for 2012!!

40

1) Defrag, Compress, and Organize! Let’s face it.

We collect all sorts of things. Because of their relative intangibility, we tend to collect files in massive amounts – especially when they’re music and movies.

So, if you’ve been avoiding the cold winter months with a wave of media input, consider cleaning it up. Set aside a few hours, make a pot of coffee, and unplug your Internet connection (because face it, if you don’t, you’ll just end up checking your friends’ Facebook status). Most importantly, get to work!

Comb through all your devices, in order, and discard all those files you don’t need. If you intend to keep any of it, make sure you back it up on an external device. If you do have files you share with more than a single person, consider setting up a DropBox or other cloud-based account, too.

2) Clean up your act!! Once you’ve cleaned your devices up, clean your office/diwaniya/bedroom/ game room! Comb through your spaces with a vengeance and be ruthless in your execution! Have you used that old 4.0-megapixel camera in the last year? If the answer is no, it’s probably time to discard it. (Of course, if you have, we need to talk).

Still sporting a video camera from when they filmed E.T.? Yeah, toss that right out. Yeah, it’s probably time to get rid of that old desktop, as well. If you’ve got a smart phone (and face it, all of us do), there’s a good chance you can use it to do a lot of the things you once bought other devices for. So, have a look around. If you can swap out an older device for an App (like your GPS device), it might be a lot simpler to do so in the long run.

3) Give it away, give it away, give it away now!!

If you have something you’ve been planning to get rid of, don’t just toss it (unless it’s that video camera

from when they filmed E.T.). Instead, share the love and give it to someone less fortunate than you. If you’ve got an old phone, an old tablet, or even and old desktop, look at your local community and see who might need it. Chances are, there is someone in your immediate environment that could benefit from a hand-me-down or two. So, if you have a harris or maid that is less fortunate than you, consider giving them some of those old gadgets. Not only will you build a stronger community, you’ll also earn some cool karma points (which are a little like experience points, but for real life…)

4) Swedish Kung-Fu. Don’t be afraid to drop a few dinars on some new shelving, either. Once you’ve cleaned up your act (and hopefully gotten rid of duplicate cables, plugs, and other accessories), complete the psychological process of tossing out the old by acquiring something new. Put up some new paint, move the furniture, and place all of your awesome new gadgets in a single, well-lit location.

Showcase your geek pride!

5) LAN PARTY!! Having accomplished all of the above, it’s time to roll out the red carpet! Invite your friends over for an afternoon of gaming, movies, or just conversation! If you’re one of those people with a big space and who loves gaming, consider a LAN party or dinner & games night. If you want something a little more intimate, consider a night of tabletop or board gaming with the family, instead.

Well, those were my super awesome geek cleaning tips for 2012. I don’t know if you’ll be able to use them, but I sure hope you can! Of course, if you have your own tips you’d like to share, consider sending them in! Goodness knows I’m only one geek, after all!

HEAVENLY BAGELS You don’t have to die to get to heaven By bazaar staff

Seriously, who doesn’t love a bagel? For breakfast it’s the perfect choice, but then again the same applies to lunch, dinner, even a late night snack... alright, a bagel is great any time, day or night. It’s the versatility of varieties and multitude of fillings that make bagels perfect for any occasion.

But let’s be honest, you can have all the versatility in the world but it amounts to naught if decent bagels are nowhere to be found. This has been the case in good old K-town. Until now.

Heavenly Bagels is a hole-in-the-wall joint in Kuwait City on the back side of the Al-Sagran Complex.

Ordering at the counter there is limited space, it’s more of a takeaway place anyway, but the main focus is on their home delivery service. They hope to expand to a second location in Mahboula soon to widen the scope of their delivery network. As their menu attests, they may 42

be the first bagel shop in Kuwait but they’re not selling themselves on this point alone. They prefer to focus on their fresh bagels, top-quality ingredients and keeping reasonable prices. They believe the bagels speak for themselves, who cares if they were the first?

Heavenly Bagels have been slicing, schmearing (see step 2), and filling freshly baked bagels since October of last year and honestly, we can’t believe we waited this long to get our hands on some. And when I say freshly baked, I mean from scratch - the dough is made fresh and baked every day. With 12 bagels to choose from – plain, garlic, mixed herb, whole wheat, cheese, spinach Florentine, to name a few – you’ll be spoilt for choice from the outset, and that’s only Step 1.

Step 2 is where we get down to business; here you have to pick a “schmear” - the cream cheese based spread that Heavenly Bagels prepares fresh, in-house. With over

13 choices like onion & chives, strawberry, sun-dried tomato & basil, plus non-cream cheese schmears such as peanut butter and Nutella, you could be forgiven for never making it past the first page of the menu!

If you do make it past the first page though you’ll be rewarded with mouth-watering bagel combinations broken down into; all-day breakfast or beef, chicken, turkey, seafood and veggie bagelwich. Being a traditionalist I opted for the Scottish Salmon Brunch, served, as suggested on a sesame bagel. A schmear of garden veg cream cheese, fresh dill, juicy capers, red onion, and of course, smoked salmon. But being true to our readers we of course sampled more. A lot more.

We tried the Philly Steak & Cheese, with thinly sliced tenderloin, melted mozzarella, sautéed green peppers, onions, and mushrooms on a bed of mayo and bibb lettuce; for the health conscious we tried the Healthy Chicken, with grilled chicken, low fat cheese, iceberg lettuce, tomato, and onion. For something a little more indulgent we tried the Turkey Club, seared turkey on layers of mayo, honey mustard, turkey bacon, pickles, and bibb lettuce, topped with cheddar cheese, tomato, and fi¬nally a fried egg! To round off the categories (and our bellies) we also devoured Tuna & a Schmear and Veggie delight bagels and can report that non-meateaters will find these bagels divine.

Whether you’re looking for the taste of a memory or wanting to try something new, Heavenly Bagels will deliver.

Heavenly Bagels is located in Al-Sagran Complex, Oman St, Kuwait City. Visit www.heavenlybagels.com for more information.

Orders can be placed on 5544 4303 or through www.6alabat.com.

up close and personal

WHEN FILM DEFINES LIFE Mustafa Abbas By bazaar staff

The life of Emirati filmmaker Mustafa Abbas is defined by an unbridled passion for movies, where the lines between work and play are somewhat nonexistent. If he’s not making movies, he’s watching them. The 27 year old strives to attain originality in its purest form, where his short film, 100 Miles, won the Best Non Documentary Film Award at the 2007 Emirates Film Competition when he was only 23 years old. That same year, 100 Miles made the official selection at the Dubai International Film Festival, marking Abbas’s ascent as a filmmaker.

In this role, Abbas is also the writer, director, and cinematographer, crafting his vision into life.

Considered as his seventh film, 100 Miles is about a young schizophrenic who put a hit on an old rival for abusing a girl, only later to discover that he is innocent. Abbas was thus deemed one of the dark horses of the Arab film industry, sourcing human 44

behavior as his main inspiration for his crime-based, modern-noir style; films that are dominated by gritty dialogue enticing shadowy lighting. In 2009, Abbas added yet another feather to his silver screen cap, when his film, Rain, screened at the year’s Gulf Film Festival. Since then, Abbas has written several full length screen plays, some of which are currently under development.

Abbas had a clear-cut vision of his life in cinema; he began playing with a video camera at the tender age of 12. By the time he had turned 17, Abbas had already written, and shot, several home videos using the support of his friends as his star-studded cast.

This fascination with the psychological journeys of the average human soul is a central part, and even a guiding light, of Abbas’s career path. Upon the success of 100 Miles, he reached international status when his film, The Alley, screened at none-otherthan the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2007,

where his crime-based approach appealed to fans and critics, alike. On creating gripping stories that keep the viewer captivated by the raw portrayal of human character, Abbas doesn’t believe that there is a fixed formula to achieving success or making a film. Instead, he finds that the most vital part of a movie is creating a fascinating middle section, in order to sustain the interest of the viewer.

One would imaging that it is only natural for Abbas to flourish with the budding Emirati filmmaking scene, yet his ability to distinguish his work with the field of crime thrillers definitely separates him from the rest. Through his work, Abbas delves deep into the human soul, exploring the nature of characters and their ability to change from good to evil depending on the circumstances they are presented with. In a recent interview with Gulf News, he states, “I have realized anyone is capable of doing anything. It all depends on the

situation.� Choosing to break the mould, and deviate from the expected, he bases great emphasis on dialogues, and even the lack thereof, as silence plays an influential factor to exemplify the suspense in a given scene, or enhance the characters with a truly humane edge. Film critics may look for stunning graphics and 3D effects for that edge, yet Abbas sees the edge in the humanity and natural portrayal of the journey of the human soul.

Critics even compare Abbas’s films to American action films, as he has so far produced movies in the English language. Challenging himself even further, Abbas has recently written an Arabic story about street gangs, a resounding phenomenon in the Middle East. With both local and international screenings to add to his accolades of success, Abbas is soon due to release his next highly anticipated feature film, Criminal, at the 2012 Gulf Film Festival, starting from the 10th of April, until the 16th.

bazaar questionnaire: What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Health and peace of mind, respectively. Living the way you want, and doing the things you like from small to big..

What is your greatest fear?

I think the greatest fear of any human being is the fear of not being loved.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

My nerves.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Materialism/money-mindedness.

Which living person do you most admire?

ClichĂŠd but the truth: My parents.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Designer shoes.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

"Class".

When were you happiest?

January, 2009.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Probably drawing or singing.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

I'll get back to you on that one in a few years.

Where would you most like to live?

I'm living here already.

For more information about Mustafa Abbas, please visit www.mustafaabbas.com.

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A CULINARY HERITAGE Salwa Najia By bazaar staff What inspired you to write the recipes for your first cookbook?

I was always interested in cooking from a very young age; based on this hobby and passion, I started a collection of recipes. I never had an idea back then of creating a book, the recipes were just filed for my reference.

Some I've collected over the years from my mother, some I came across on my travels all over the world. I'm so fascinated by cooking that I would meet the chefs at restaurants where I loved the food, and ask for recipes and tips to create my own version of the dishes I had.

What do you wish to communicate with your cookbooks?

I would love to show people that cooking with passion is the most important thing. I worked really hard to communicate how I created these recipes. I want to present my readers with dishes they want to learn to cook, and might have a hard time finding an easy recipe with an elegant presentation.

Can you give us some examples of these hard-to-find recipes?

For instance, there are many Palestinian dishes that are very traditional and very hard to come by in modern restaurants. In these cases, I will locate the recipe from different sources, usually from its original source, before crafting my own—a recipe that is easy for everyone to prepare.

How is the second book different from the first?

The second book is very global with regards to the types of recipes compiled.

I came by a variety of different recipes for unique appetizers and desserts. My experience improved in terms of producing the book; better photography, and printing quality. Nonetheless, people love the first book because it is very comprehensive reference of regional and international recipes, with a total of 700. Any and every recipe that comes to mind is in that book. The second book is also loved for its variety of eclectic recipes.

Was it harder to create recipes for your second book?

Not at all! I actually acquired the experience I needed from my first book.

Now, creating new and interesting flavors comes naturally to me. Before I started my second book, I used to wonder how other authors did it. Slowly but surely, I accumulated more recipes and started my project once again.

For most culinary experts, the mark of a great cook is a science; this includes presentation, balancing textures, innovating tastes and much more. I might not be a culinary expert, yet I personally believe that the food I enjoy the most is cooked with passion, and from the heart. The culinary talent and vision of Mrs. Salwa Najia shows the marks of a great cook, as she chooses to cook with passion, and challenges her skills to excel through her journey in publishing two established cookbooks. Her first book, Al Mathaq (The Taste) is a gastronomic reference and a studied ode to regional and international dishes, and her second book, released this month, Atbaq Wa Athwaq (Plates and Palates) is an eclectic progression of innovative recipes. bazaar meets Mrs. Najia to find out more: What are the types of dishes you enjoy cooking the most?

I love taking known dishes from different countries, and modifying them.

I mix in different flavors, with the additional final touches of an elegant presentation. I'm also very fond of making Arabic pastries, Mo'ajanat, with very non-traditional ingredients and interesting applications, like mixes of eggplant, sesame oil and sun-dried tomatoes. Not only do they look good, they taste absolutely delicious.

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How has the feedback been for your second book?

The feedback is greatly positive; I am overwhelmed with the kind responses I've received from my friends and fans. My knowledge has reached those who can make use of it, that's what makes me happiest, especially when people from older or younger generations approach me with their success stories with the recipes.

What's the next step for Mrs. Najia?

I would love to translate my books into the English language to make them accessible to those people who prefer to communicate in English.

What tips do you have for home cooks?

Take cooking one step at a time, be determined and challenge yourself.

I never thought I could perfect very technical dishes, yet I did because I love how small details can make all the difference. I love working hard, from the heart, in every aspect of life and that always shows in cooking.

Mrs. Salwa Najia’s new cookbook, Atbaq Wa Athwaq, is available at bookstores and cooperatives across Kuwait.

bazaar music MDNA

by Madonna

The 12th studio album from singer Madonna, 2012's MDNA features all new material from the pop icon with production from French electronic musician and DJ Martin Solveig, as well as longtime Madonna collaborator William Orbit. Coming on the heels of Madonna's half-time performance at the 2012 Superbowl, the album's title is an abbreviation of her name. Included are the singles "Give Me All Your Luvin'" featuring Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. as well as "Girls Gone Wild."

LOVE IS A FOUR LETTER WORD

by Jason Mraz

Jason describes the album as, "not a departure in the sound of the genre in any way, it's just different tones, different textures. Musically, I think people are going to like it. It's personal. It's melodic. And it's mellow. There are a couple of up-tempo tunes, but mostly the rhythm of the heartbeat kind of takes precedence on this record.

Medium-tempo tunes; which I love. It feels more like the pace of life. At least, based on my life and what I've been doing." On January 20, 2012, during a performance streamed live from the Bing Bar at the Sundance Film Festival, Mraz told the audience that the album's title is Love Is a Four Letter Word. Mraz released a new single from the album, called "I Won't Give Up", and the single has peaked at #1 on iTunes.

LITTLE BROKEN HEARTS

by Norah Jones

Norah Jones has set a May 1 release date for Little Broken Hearts, her stunning new album produced by Danger Mouse (aka Brian Burton). Jones has also revealed the album cover and track listing of the 12-song set, which features original songs co-written by Jones and Burton. Jones drew the inspiration for the album cover from the vintage movie posters that adorn Burton's Los Angeles studio. Little Broken Hearts is the fascinating next step in the artistic evolution of one of the music world's most consistently intriguing singer-songwriters.

STATE OF TRANCE 2012

by Armin Van Buuren

To Armin van Buuren, music is a natural state of mind. The Dutch DJ and producer lives, breaths and sleeps on the wonders of the 4-to-4 beat and has been at it for more than 15 years. Nine of those years have involved the annual release of his A State of Trance compilation. A highlight for the trance-minded and dance addicts, now reaching for its 2012 edition. For 2012, Armin has found the perfect balance and track selection. From tracks produced especially for the ASOT series to new found gems from the upcoming league of dance producers. After much preparation, A State of Trance 2012 is a fact! This is A State of Trance 2012, mixed by Armin van Buuren.

ROSES

by The Cranberries

The Cranberries are back - with their first studio album in over ten years! The original Irish four-piece fronted by Dolores O'Riordan, who lit up the charts for over a decade with classics such as "Linger", "Dreams" and "Zombie".

They've sold more than 30 million records, with four Top 20 Billboard albums and a total of eight hit singles.

Roses, the 11 new-song-album from The Cranberries, was produced by the band's old friend and collaborator Stephen Street (The Smiths, Blur and more recently Kaiser Chiefs).

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source: www.amazon.com

LA CASA DEL HABANO “A smoke in times of rest is a great companion to the solitary soldier.” Che Guevara By bazaar staff

You remember those word association games you played as a child? Somebody would say one word and you’d have to spit out the first word that popped in your head. You know; foot – ball, pillow – fight, French – fries. I suppose you could figure out what kind of a kid I was from my responses, even though I edited the last one.

Anyway, let’s try a couple: Cigars?

Cuban?

Cuban Cigars. You can’t say one of these words without thinking immediately of the other. If you’re going to smoke a cigar it has to be Cuban and if you visit Cuba you have to smoke a cigar.

La Casa Del Habano brings a little piece of Cuba (and a lot of cigars) to Kuwait. Located at Al-Sawani Center and Kuwait International Airport, these cigar lounges are authorized franchises of Habanos SA, the company that oversees promotion, distribution, and export of Cuban cigars and other tobacco products worldwide.

The Walk-in Humidor is the heart of every La Casa Del Habano. This is where you can find every Habanos cigar available on the market presented and stored under perfect conditions of humidity and temperature. You can drop by and purchase quantities of 10, 25, or 50 (or multiples thereof) if you know what you want, or if you prefer to peruse the cigars and sample them, a vendor, with in-depth expertise on every cigar, is on hand to answer any query you may have.

Think of La Casa Del Habano like a home away from 50

home, the perfect place to enjoy your cigar with likeminded people in privacy and comfort. Rich wooden display cabinets and sumptuous leather seating make this the ideal environment to relax and savour your cigar of choice.

For the truly discerning customer, a locked humidor known as ‘The Vault’ is available to store your personal cigars in a locked security box, under optimum conditions and supervision of personnel responsible for each cigar.

La Casa Del Habano also sells a range of products for the cigar aficionado to enrich their smoking experience; hand-made humidors, cigar cutters, ashtrays, all in classic and modern designs.

That AlSalasil guarantees that all cigars sold in their lounges and outlets in Kuwait are 100% Cuban. They are the only licensed Habanos Cuban Cigar reseller in Kuwait and have been for 20 years. They offer 33 Habanos brands including: Cohiba This is THE Cuban Cigar. Once only available outside Cuba to heads of state and dignitaries, the Cohiba was created in 1966 for Fidel Castro himself and produced at the then top-secret but now world famous, El Laguito Factory. The name Cohiba comes from an ancient Taino Indian word for tobacco and the bunches of tobacco leaves that Columbus first saw being smoked by the original inhabitants of Cuba. These were the earliest known form of cigar.

Montecristo Perhaps the best known and most appreciated

Habanos brand worldwide, the Montecristo is named after Alexandre Dumas’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo, which was a favorite of the Torcedores (cigar rollers) when being read to on the rolling floor (a common practice, lectors would read aloud to the rollers for entertainment, this idea is believed to have originated in Cuba and still exists today). Montecristo’s perfectly balanced blend is created exclusively with selected leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region, home of the finest tobaccos in the world.

Partagas At 520 Industria St in the heart of Havana lies the Partagas factory where they have been making cigars since 1845. The cigar is recognizable for its deep, earthy flavor and the factory, now a popular tourist destination, is famous for legendarily introducing the first lectors to read to the Torcedores.

Romeo y Julieta Sir Winston Churchill was this brand’s most famous smoker. Named after Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, the brand became popular around the world after Jose "Pepin" Rodriguez Fernandez acquired the brand, subsequently travelling Europe and America entering his horse, Julieta, in racing events and promoting the brand.

Hoyo de Monterrey “Hoyo" literally means "hole” and in this case describes the low-lying position of the plantation on the fertile banks of San Juan y Martinez River. The flavor of Hoyo de Monterrey’s blend makes it an attractive choice for those who seek a delicate yet aromatic Habano that is lighter to the taste but with great elegance and complexity.

La Casa Del Habanos main showroom is located at Al-Sawani Center opposite the Sheraton Hotel. For more information visit www.thatalsalasil.com.kw or call 2246 6266.

FAST T

TELCO

GULF FRANCHISING HOLDING CO. Home-grown franchise concepts are knocking at your doors!

By bazaar staff

Franchising is one of those words that rings with different meanings in people’s minds, but in layman terms it is simply your money invested in somebody else’s tailor-made business plan; or technically it is when you purchase the name or trade mark of a certain business and in return you get the right to operate that business in your country of choice.

Establishing an independent business in today’s world may seem like a lot of work. It requires a considerable amount of investment, a well-outlined business plan and the know-how. Since opening up your own business can be an expensive, and sometimes slightly risky affair, entrepreneurs tend to go for the much easier option of getting a franchise that provides pre-established practices which you study, copy and implement.

Recently, the franchising concept has spread like wildfire across the GCC due to the Gulf’s growing economic activity, swelling population and the steady increase in the consumer’s purchasing power - leaving scope, however, for further growth potential.

According to Mahmoud Mousavi, Vice President of Franchise Sale & Marketing for Gulf Franchising Holding Co. (Kuwait) herightly believes that, “even though the boom of the GCC’s economy is bringing new people into the country leading to an increase in population, increased incomes and even inflation, it is helping rather than hindering people and businesses to take up value-based enterprises.”

With more than 400 franchise outlets in the food and retail segment, Kuwait has served, and still 54

does, as a franchise core for the Middle East region.

Brands that need no introduction such as 5aSec Dry Cleaning, Pitman Training, KwikKopy, Computer Troubleshooters, Dunkin Donuts, Subway, McDonalds and Pizza Hut all started in Kuwait. Kuwait is one of the most competitive and mature markets in the region and the most successful brands are based here.

So with this fact in hand, Gulf Franchising Holding Co. wants to change the rules a bit; why not start a Kuwaiti brand and make it into a franchise system to be franchised in the GCC region and then smoothly increase its horizons into Singapore, Italy, France, UK, Canada and United States?

Mahmoud Mousavi explains further, “the idea came to my mind when I started to think about all the successful local brands in Kuwait that created enough hype and significant impact in the Kuwaiti market, and are becoming outstanding chains that can be franchised out effectively. If we create an association to take care of legal and patent rights, creating international systems for currency transfer, these restaurants can be set up within GCC countries and eventually abroad. In the beginning the question that came to our minds was whether our restaurants could handle such expansion and reach an enormous broad base. Imagine traveling to London, Sharm El Sheikh, Istanbul or Beirut and visiting your fatherland restaurant concepts there. Such expansion has great economic benefits, simply by removing a certain international currency from your cash cycle that gets exchanged to Kuwaiti Dinar. Such action surely creates a stronger local economy for a 4-million-

people market. Now you see why the Americans are smartly trying to DOLLORIZE the world - it makes their economy much stronger. This even creates jobs and a path for better economic relations. Imagine the profits they are making here in the GCC. Imagine going to Amsterdam and in one corner you see your favorite Kebab restaurant, called Naz Persian Soul Food.”

Naz is an authentic Persian franchise restaurant that takes customers on a gastronomic journey to savor the wide range of sumptuous and delicious recipes, prepared with expertise from renowned Persian cuisine in a modern and vibrant atmosphere along with the aroma of the freshly baked Iranian bread. Naz’s menu draws its influences from Persia which has, over the years, established itself as the culinary mother of the Middle East and has influenced the evolution of Indian, Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines. Dishes are fresh, light, aromatic, subtly spiced and often marinated over time to ensure the ultimate flavors marry perfectly with the high quality produce and fine ingredients used.

Today NAZ, which is a home-grown concept and brainchild of GFC, has established its roots well in Kuwait and is all set to stretch its wings and take a flight for an international franchise expedition.

For Franchising Opportunities please contact: Mr. Mahmoud Mousavi – V.P. Franchise Sale & Marketing. Email: Mousavi@gfc.com.kw or Ms.ShivaniPushkarna – Franchising Coordinator.

Email: Shivani@gfc.com.kw.

NOVEMBER BAKERY Testing new delights By bazaar staff The tasting brought together all the elements of the ‘November experience’ from the décor to the design and finally, the food itself. As Bibi Hayat, Founder and Creative Director, told us before we sat down, she was trying out a few new things in an attempt to deliver healthier takes on baking so some of the items would feature unusual ingredients - apple sauce and prune puree instead of butter, almond flour instead of flour. It would be our job to try and discern those desserts that she’d played with from the traditionally baked ones.

The room that awaited us was one of glistening glassware and shimmering candlelight. The warm and welcoming ambiance generated was one of chic luxury and tasteful elegance. After being given pen and paper and asked to take a seat, we were asked to sample each new dessert and write down our thoughts (good or bad). From our feedback two or three items would make it from the tasting and onto the menu at November Bakery. I suppose there are worse ways to spend an evening.

First up was the ‘Hasooni’, named after Bibi’s brother as it is his favorite dessert - banana nut cake with a sweet cream cheese frosting. Then we tried their homemade Oreo cookies, created as so many recipes call for Oreos and they don’t want to be forced to rely on other brands for their own creations. Then came a pair of truffles, one lemon coconut and one Mahalabiya date. The former was my favorite dessert of the evening and I really hope it makes it onto the menu! Chocolate chip cookie cheesecake fused two great desserts in new way and the mountain of Rice Krispie balls added a new dimension as we were asked to pluck one from the display. The chocolate fudge brownie was one of the desserts featuring prunes instead of butter and honestly, it’s not noticeable.

The coffee crumble served as a pick-me-up as it was packed with espresso and was delicious.

Topping it all off was a strawberry and raspberry chocolate parfait.

So next time you’re in Al Tilal Complex drop by November Bakery and see which items made the cut and are on sale. Then pop around the corner and pick up a few things for the house at things by November. And if you’re planning an event, then you’ll be hard pressed to find the attention to detail and sheer luxury of November Events.

November has three locations at the Al Tilal Complex. They have things by November, which sells flowers, gifts and home accessories, handselected from around the world. Then of course they have the November Bakery, where they take the finest ingredients and turn them into fabulous confectionery creations and finally, 56

their third location is where their office is based, but also where you can go to experience a tailor-made event solution. This would be November Events.

November recently had a tasting of new delicacies and bazaar was invited, with a horde of hungry bloggers, to sample and offer feedback.

November Bakery, things by November and November Events are all based at the Al Tilal Complex, Shuwaikh. For more information visit www.thenovembercompany.com or call 2225 3445.

GLAM & CHIC FROM EIGHT TO SIX

By Diva Undecided

“However, that blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room from a pile of stuff” ~ Miranda Priestly, Devil Wears Prada

Meryl Streep (Miranda Priestly) in Devil Wears Prada may have, very well, encapsulated the entire backdrop and basis of her character in the movie with this outright and blunt remark. In that regard, anyone familiar with this scene will also concur that a similar level of reactive-bluntness can justifiably (provided you are a self-proclaimed fashionista) be spearheaded towards those who demean the value fashion entails and bears in our day to day lives.

A good number of folks spend the majority of their day at work, and a great number of those folks constitute the exact demography that utilizes any given opportunity to either, look good and presentable or over do it.

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Love it, loath it or downright despise it, every day people are judged by the way they dress and present themselves; why else would first impressions be weighed down by the physical appearance quotient? An unkempt look always signals lack of conscientiousness—a trait that is one of the biggest predictors of success. Various focus group studies have, time and again, proven that appearance can create credibility. It’s not all just for show.

Undoubtedly, office apparel is tricky stuff, necessitating walking the fine line between chicly appropriate and frowned upon. Understand the corporate culture and emulate it.

Kuwait has several means and norms to position itself

as a fashion hub, both for the masses and the classes.

Throw in some well-endowed disposable income and willingness to shop, and you end up with self-proclaimed fashionistas and a retail gala. However, not all times does everyone get it right. The women, particularly in their bid to make everything seem like appropriate office-wear, often end up doing more damage. Towering stilettos, figure-hugging business suits, loud shirts and not to forget, harems!

With the economy tiptoeing its way into the 2nd recession, it is perhaps safe to assume that we need to gear up for cutting corners in every possible direction.

It’s about time we start shopping in our closets for the perfect finds and go the extra mile to look professionally appropriate. And what better time than the age-old clean slate of the new year? The following is a list to help ladies accumulate more budget-friendly ammo for their office-wear arsenal.

Staples, Staples and Staples – Bing it, research it, study it or better yet Google it. Formulate your findings and make a list of what your wardrobe staples are. Male or female, this will not just be a mere act of kindness to your budget-friendly pocket, but will also make you a thrifty fashionista(o) in the process.

When in doubt, always go conventional – A cleancut suit with a buttoned down, sober-colored shirt can never betray you. Trust it. Own it.

Under dressing is equally disastrous as overdressing – Strike a balance and stick with it.

Leggings and/harems are a strict ‘No No’ to work – This includes the most modern of office-wear tolerance levels. At a professional set up, remember that you're being sized up all the time. Formal wear means no PJs, no Juicy Couture tracks and definitely, no harem pants.

Huggies belong to your 2 year old – Ladies! SUBTLE. It’s probably the best advice an average fashionista, yours truly, could part with. It will take you to great lengths in terms of earning respect from your peers. Anything remotely close to body-hugging formal trousers, business suits, skirts do not spell out ‘subtle’, and rightfully so.

The office is not a Milan ramp – Impossibly heels qualify as both physical and visual abuse. Remember that you're not dressing to attract attention but to underscore your professionalism. Make best friends with ballet flats and/ classic 2 inch pumps.

And Finally, no loud make up – Just a hint of makeup unless you’re looking to copy Ronald McDonald’s look. When using perfume, go easy with it. The idea is to not come off as someone who showered in it.

Mark Twain said it best: "Clothes make the man.” So, dress wisely.

THE RETAIL ACADEMY Learn beyond the barcode By bazaar staff

For the longest time, the perception of the retail industry in Kuwait, and the Middle East, has been negative. The mere consideration that working in the retail field is menial is a very outdated, let alone misguided, notion. From selling goods in a store, to flying off to exciting worldwide destinations to purchase these very same goods you once sold, that is the magic of retail. It is constantly changing consumer tastes with expert marketing techniques, and it mobilizes a stronger economic base when businesses in the retail services flourish.

With the economic hardships we faced in the recent years, we’ve seen small business flourish and take center stage in our local economy, proving to show that recovery can be made, allowing for new opportunities and growth for the economy in the long run. Sadly, this very same business cycle has shown that the retail sector was not as open to Kuwaitis due to the local perceptions about retail. As part of a national effort to promote employment amongst Kuwaitis in the service sector, The Retail Academy was built to train young Kuwaitis, and local expat youth alike, in the retail and service sector. The training center hopes to reach enough people to create a new wave of knowledge and training amongst the local population.

If anyone wishes to go into the retail industry, its important to have the tools and the basics to be better equipped to handle managerial positions later on in their careers. Learning by experience, as 60

one goes along when opening a business, occurs all the time. Yet by acquiring the necessary training, one is better equipped to avoid inefficient mistakes that they can't afford to make today. Nowadays, investing has become such a risk-averse field, and by learning the basic skills and art of retail, youngsters now have the chance to perfect their business models for better opportunities.

The Retail Academy is truly the first of its kind in Kuwait, offering a unique, and tailor-made educational opportunity for youngsters and young professionals alike. In their most recent project in partnering with Al-Yousifi Electronics, Al-Yousifi has agreed to take on trainees at the Academy to go on to offer them positions within their organization. By training this potential staff at the Academy in the field of sales, customer service, inventory and more, the trainees also receive a salary as well as technical knowledge, further allowing them to be entered in the Public Institute of Social Security to get the necessary support from the government. Upon completing their training, the trainees would be employed at Al-Yousifi, to be absorbed in the various sectors there, like sales, accounting, and upper management. People will be chosen based on this technical training, based on the simulation work that happens at the Retail Academy, making this institution a truly viable educational option for many who have previously overlooked retail, or did not know where to look to find the appropriate training.

The courses and training at The Retail Academy are available to all age groups, from students to young professionals, wishing to enter the retail field, or further their understanding of their current position in retail. For instance, learning how to sell to customers is an art form, giving better sales pitches, closing a sale, and communicating customer requirements to upper management. Trainees experience the true taste of a hard day’s work through hands-on training and simulation classes in front sales, telling, merchandising, inventory and much more.

Expanding the field of retail from the ground up is extremely important in today’s economy, even if the biggest challenge comes with illustrating that working in retail is not demeaning or menial. Learning how to sell by becoming a sales assistant, or a stylist at a boutique, can be perfected by our local youth.

As Kuwaitis, it would only be beneficial for the customer to be served by a fellow Kuwaiti, who speaks the same language, and understands the customers' needs.

Upon enrolling, trainees will immediately notice a dynamic environment. The simulated retail environment is equipped with glass, front window display areas for merchandising training, a simulated supermarket with functioning checkouts, a clothing store with mannequins and clothing racks, stock rooms, and even a simulated and functioning café. A series of lectures and classes by trained professionals in the field and a diverse team of instructors reinforce all of the simulation training at the Retail Academy.

The Retail Academy is located in Dasman Commercial Complex in Sharq.

For more information, please call 2247 0117, or visit: www.retailacademy-kw.com.

fashionality

LOIS LONDON Reinventing the Kaftan By bazaar staff

gown or a suited jumpsuit, Lois London is a designer’s vision of silhouettes accented to individual tastes.

Connecting the wearer with her inner goddess; intricate beading, rich colors, airy fabrics, and luxurious draping make for an exceptional addition to every modern woman’s wardrobe. Inspired by a huge loss in her life, the tragic death of her grandmother, father, and brother, who she lost in her early twenties, designer Radhika Perera Hernandez found solace in The Tibetan Book of Life and Dying.

In her journey towards healing, her experience helped her reconnect with her inner aspirations.

Paying homage to Sri Lanka, her collection of modern kaftans illustrates the story of this beautiful country, Hernandez states, “Sri Lanka is the most beautiful place in the world to me. From its winding country roads, lush jungle landscape, to its mesmerizing historical Buddhist ruins. No matter how old I am, I’m still in awe when I am there.

When I was a child my family would take trips to the countryside and visit gem mines where we would see sapphires the size of gold balls. Sometimes, simply driving through the winding roads of Sri Lanka can manifest the most beautiful sights; elephants and monkeys, Buddhist temples and monks, it’s a country filled with bright colors and wafts of tropical sea-air.

I am proud to be a product of that.”

Does fashion ‘make’ the person or does the person ‘make’ fashion?

I think fashion can transform the wearer but that does not mean it “makes” a person. It’s the blend of your energy and your style that create a unique fashionable moment.

How would you describe your style?

An eclectic fusion of vintage and contemporary. It is strong and bold, yet classic and makes a lasting statement.

My style definitely reflects how I feel each day.

How do you get inspiration for your style?

Through vintage finds and researching new trends in the market via blogs, etc. I love to shop vintage stores in Los Angeles, London, Miami, little known areas in the central United States—and open air markets in Sri Lanka, different parts of Africa and the Middle East. Some of my favorite vintage shops in the United States include RARE Vintage New York and Decades in Los Angeles.

The evolution of the Kaftan from an exotic beach side companion to wardrobe must-have is emulated by the culmination of tasteful opulence 62

defined by Lois London. Modernly envisioning the floaty fabric, traditionally worn as a long flowing robe or overdress, as an embellished

What does it take to become a style innovator?

It takes a person who is true to themselves and stands by their own vision.

What’s exciting right now in fashion?

The emergence of new independent designers who have so many viral outlets. You can independently create a brand and launch your website, twitter page and blog etc. That’s exciting. Creative freedom.

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?

New York City has been my greatest fashion influence, it’s a place I find inspiration every day.

During just my daily travels on the train, I encounter amazing color, texture, cultural influence and personal style. The city is like aesthetic stimulation for creativity. My designs are also influenced by my own heritage though.

Who are your favorite designers, and what is it that you love about them?

Stephane Rolland is a designer who I keep my eye on. He was with Balenciaga and now has his own line.

To me, his sculptural designs are true pieces of art.

Very inspiring.

What is the highlight of your ‘style’ career?

The highlight of my "style" career was putting my training to work and beginning this collection.

Special moments that stand out are the first time I was photographed by Style.com while attending the Glastonbury Festival in the UK, and the first email I received from a potential customer expressing interest in one of my designs. And the first time I found the courage to share my designs with my friends and family.

1. Olive green short kaftan - "MIA" RICH OLIVE SQUARE SEQUINS ON SILK CHIFFON. DEEP PLUNGING NECKLINE WITH BRONZE METALLIC MESH AND LEAF DETAIL.

3. ONE SHOULDER KAFTAN GOWN "SOPHIA" PEWTER SQUARE SEQUIN IN RICH BLACK SILK CHIFFON. FLOOR LENGTH KAFTAN GOWN CUT IN ONE SHOULDER STYLE.

2. JUMPSUIT – “BIANCA” VINTAGE 70’S INSPIRED JUMPSUIT IN INTRICATELY SEQUINED SILK CHIFFON. LIKE DRAPED CRYSTAL, PALE MAUVE WITH PEWTER SQUARE SEQUINS. SUBTLE HAREM DETAILS, DRAWSTRING STRAPS AND ELASTICATED WAIST AND CUFFS.

4. LEATHER - "ZOE" BLACK LEATHER PAILETTES AND BEADS ON BLACK SILK CHIFFON WITH DEEP EXPOSED BACK DETAIL.

Every fashionality has as a style obsession, what’s yours?

I’m obsessed with the 70’s, always have been.

Do you follow any fashion blogs? If so, what are they and which would you recommend?

I follow many but a couple I love are: LOVERS IN VAIN: loversinvain.blogspot.com STUDDED HEARTS: studdedhearts.blogspot.com What item of clothing (if any) do you wish that people wore more often?

Kaftans, they are effortlessly chic and can be worn almost anywhere. I think they are under utilized.

To be stylish is to be fashionable. True or False and why?

People consider those who are “fashionable” to be over the top and fashion forward. But to me, those who are stylish, can be so under the radar, with subtle details and accessories. Putting together an outfit effortlessly is stylish.

For order inquiries, please contact info@lois-london.com.

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THE HAIR MAKEOVER Racoon Hair Extensions for instant long, luxurious locks By bazaar staff

Beautiful, flawless and attractive hair has been the dream of every woman, and a beauty industry driver, since its initial boom during the 60’s. For the typical woman, seeking an instant look to give you that desirable VaVaVoom is sometimes an unattainable feat, especially with the story of the lovely Aqsa, the star of this Racoon Extensions makeover brought to us by TONI&GUY Kuwait. If you are anything like Aqsa, featured above in her before picture, and are fed up with your bob and fancy a little more length and Rapunzel-like locks, then Racoon Extensions would do you more than that.

Racoon International provides you with the finest and the most premium quality 100% human hair. It is the number one hair extensions brand in the UK and the 1st to be awarded the ISO 9001 in 2004for quality hair extensions. They are also the only company Tricologists have tested and proven to be non-damaging to the hair follicle, shaft, and strand.

Therefore, Aqsa was very excited when she found out she was selected for this special makeover.

Distributed in Kuwait by Beau-tique Cosmetics Intl, Racoon is one of the leading brands in the beauty and hair industries distributed to the Kuwaiti market through brand representation and product distribution. Brands like TONI&GUY hairdressing, label.m, Racoon, and the miracle working Tangle Teezer are the backbone of Beau-tique, providing Kuwaiti women with all the secrets of beauty and 64

glamour, giving her the dazzle of Red Carpet magic she truly deserves.

To attain her dream of getting long locks back, Aqsa had to go through three easy steps. First,she books an appointment for a consultation with a fully certified Racoon hair specialist to check her follicle suitability for Racoon hair extensions. Second, the fully certified Racoon hair stylist will apply Aqsa’s extensions and offer a comprehensive advice to give her the look she is looking for; a look which suits her bone structure and natural hair shape. Finally, to maintain and keep these magical extensions (pictured above in the after photo),Aqsa will need to give much attention to the aftercare steps and use the especially formulated products from the Racoon-Xtend Aftercare Range and Racoon’s award winning brushes.

To guarantee that customers like Aqsa receive the best results possible, Racoon offers international trainings to certified salons. Racoon International certification means the stylist has a solid marketleading knowledge and understanding of the science of hair. Simply, if they don’t make the grade, they can’t use the products. And even if they do, Racoon reviews their work regularly to make sure they stay ahead of the rest.

Chloe Robinson, an in-house Racoon International Educator, does an exceptional job delivering the training. Chloe’s been working with Racoon for six years, doing her Foundation Training while working for TONI&GUY in the UK, she states, “Our foundation

training courses take place over 3 days and are held in The Al Corniche Resort’s Conference Rooms. Each Stylist gets to do their own model over the three days. We want to ensure that each salon receives the proper training and knowhow to perform in the most professional manner.”

Racoon hair extensions are available in Kuwait at the following certified salons: Toni&Guy Al Corniche, Boudoir Salon, Blush, Crystal Palace, Strands, L&L, TahanySarab, Brush, & Memento.

Salons seeking trainings, or for more information, please contact 2225 1285, or visit: www.beautiqueonline.com, or Facebook, www.facebook.com/ beautiquecosmetics, www.facebook.com/groups/ racoonhairkuwait/, and twitter, www.twitter,com/ RacoonKuwait.

SKECHERS

GOJI GIVES BACK In an effort to give back to the environment and society with yet another creative collaboration, Goji Boutique presents five socialites with a cause: saving a tree by wearing a Treeshirt, a prominent environmental fashion brand, and wearing a bracelet for the Hayatt Foundation, a non-profit organization geared towards providing material and moral support for suffering cancer patients in Kuwait.

For this special Goji charity project, the fab five participants individually styled their looks, and provided their insight to answering two important questions: What should people do to help the environment?

What do you do to help the environment?

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Mohammed A. S. Al-Essa, Mastermind behind 10.Oh.8.

“I think everyone should start recycling to begin with. Actually before that, people should be aware of why we should help the environment because if they are not convinced they will never do it. Always start small, whether at home or the office, and then START SPREADING THE WORD... and the love, but the word first.”

“I've been an avid recycler ever since college. I had a box for paper and a box for plastics and had a company come once a week to pick it up and now I adopted that ritual at our offices at 10.Oh.8. It feels good to help the environment.”

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Mr. Fahad Al-Marzouq, Designer, Stylist.

“I think that everyone should plant a tree at least once a year.”

“I don’t litter, and I don’t waste water.”

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Yousef Al-Taher, Stylist, Fashion Journalist.

“We need to educate young generations; they’re the ones that’ll keep things going on.”

“I recycle all my things. I don’t litter and I plant some trees.”

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Abdulaziz Mashaan, Soccer Athlete and member of the Kuwait National Soccer Team.

“People should always use environmentally friendly products; everything that doesn’t harm the environment.”

“I use recycled paper to help minimize deforestation.”

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Yousef Al-Qenaei, Founder of Aymstrong, Athlete, Fitness Expert.

“Keep the streets, beaches and public places clean and reduce the usage of plastic bags, use brown bags instead. Also, give the option to compile groceries into one bag at grocery stores.”

“I use less plastic bags. I don’t litter. We need a government level approach to help consumers save trees.”

Photography by NATALIA SITCAI. Treeshirt shirts and Hyatt bracelets are sold exclusively at www.gojiboutique.com 73

MAD Make a Difference By bazaar staff

MAD began back in 2004 when Randa N. Diab received the bill after dining out one night. She was dining with friends and after splitting the bill, she suddenly felt guilty. The bill was large, but we all splurge once in a while and what better way to do so than fine dining. Randa felt guilty for a different reason.

That day she’d overheard part of a story about a taxi driver who had gone blind and was in desperate need of help. The story wasn’t being told in order to raise money, just another sad story that we all tell and hear, and it wasn’t until later when she was paying the bill that Randa remembered the taxi driver. “I believe that everything happens for a reason, people come into my life in such weird ways that I feel obliged to help them out,” she tells me. And so that’s what she did. The next time she met with her friends it was for dinner at somebody’s house. Even though there was no bill, she suggested they pay one anyway and she used the money to help.

From these humble, good-hearted beginnings, MAD has grown to a point where Randa can really make a difference. She is on the verge of having to decide whether to register as a charity or not. She already runs the organization as though it were one, anyway. All donations are signed for and issued receipts, and all money that she distributes is documented and filed away. She worries about losing the personal touch and the tangible feel of MAD. The way in which somebody can give money 74

directly to a worthy cause and see the effect it has on people. This is something you cannot experience when donating to large charities. They now have people who make one-time donations to particular causes and some who donate on a monthly basis and allow MAD to simply help people with this money.

But MAD is not all about money. Of course they help some people with financial donations but they also provide medical or school supplies for those who cannot afford such things. Randa personally goes around and buys these things with donated money before distributing it to those who need it. They even pay school fees for families who struggle to send their children to school. One of the many current families she is helping is being forced to repatriate after living and working in Kuwait for over twenty years. The father is now sick and he cannot afford to keep his family here in this place they consider their home. MAD is making sure he and his family are taken care of.

Randa is also trying to make people realize that they don’t have to donate money. She’s trying to expand, not only the reach of her donators, (she doesn’t want to be always asking the same people) but also what they donate. “We want people to donate in any way they can,” she tells me. This could mean clothes, time (visiting sick children in hospital) or blood donations. You can even donate a talent if you have one. MAD recently ran a CPR course run by Randa’s sister, who is a qualified

nurse and offered hers skills for free. The money that people paid for the course all went to MAD causes and at KD15 per person the attendees also benefitted. They also run cooking courses from a family bakery in the same way and offer a Ramadan cookbook of family recipes with all proceeds going to MAD. Randa takes her position very seriously, she tells me, “Whenever someone donates even a penny to me, I will personally ensure that I go to the people in need, evaluate what it is they need and then help them.” She acknowledges that she could not, and does not, do this alone. Cousins, and family in general, as well as friends all support the MAD cause. Her husband is her rock and none of what she does would be possible without him.

Always trying to improve and, help more people, Randa is now working on getting 'MAD Mondays' off the ground. She wants to encourage companies to donate a small percentage of their profits every Monday, or one Monday a month, whatever they are comfortable with. This would benefit the companies’ CRS programs and in turn MAD would generate more money to do what it was founded to do – make a difference.

MAD is a non-profit organisation that simply wants to make a difference in Kuwait. For more information on causes and donations visit : www.facebook.com/MADKuwait or contact Randa N. Diab directly at r_diab530@yahoo.com.

snap

Title: Up

Photographed by: Zahra Naseeb

Location: Qurain houses, Kuwait Description: Up there, I’m perfect.

The beauty of photography is that it is left open for the viewer’s interpretation. It is an art form in which the artist sees and captures a moment in time for us to forever contemplate. Instead of saying “this is how I saw it” a photo asks the viewer to simply “see”.e For your snap submissions, please send an email including the photo with its title, location, and description to snap@bazaar-magazine.com. Give us something to see.

freedom to express 76

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Launches in Kuwait for GapKids and babyGap

Gap is proud to announce the launch of its first collection by Diane von Furstenberg for GapKids and babyGap for Spring 2012, for girls from newborn to age 14.

The collection captures the essence of a little girl’s dream wardrobe, as imagined by an icon of American women's fashion.

Diane, alongside the design team at Gap, has created a collection true to her unique style, while her experiences as a mother and grandmother have informed designs that will delight girls and their Moms alike. Iconic prints, signature silhouettes and a bold color palette are translated into magical dresses that aspire to Mommy ’s style as well as provide a girl’s summer wardrobe essentials including easy t-shir t dresses, tanks and shor ts, capris, leggings and swimwear.

Accessories, including sunglasses, espadrilles and sandals, provide all the wardrobe building blocks that empower a young girl to playfully experiment with her evolving style and individuality, from pretty girlish dresses to rough and tumble essentials.

At the heart of the collection are vintage Diane von Furstenberg prints, including the instantly recognizable hibiscus and leaf motifs.

Diane's signature prints meet Gap's relaxed style, and are playfully mixed, encouraging 78

structured cotton or as a jersey romper shape for babies and toddlers. The dress collection continues with a series of exquisite cotton shift dresses that incorporate print with a refined appliqué daisy detail or delicate layers of cotton voile, as well as an elegant white cotton eyelet style that's perfect for the summer months.

At the heart of every collection from Gap, the t-shirt, in pink and heather grey, bears a new Gap DVF motif, that also appears on flipflops, ballet pumps, jersey tanks, leggings, sun-hats, beach bags, sunglasses and hi-top sneakers, as well as the lining of one of the star pieces - a navy stripe seersucker blazer, customized with a "Diane von Furstenberg" crest and badges calling out "DVF Gap" and Diane's personal mantra "Love is Life."

For Mom's and the youngest babies, vintage prints appear on bodysuits and rompers, as well as rattles and super chic diaper bags.

Diane von Furstenberg comments, "I am thrilled to collaborate with Gap on this playful collection for girls. It is timeless...colorful... effortless. That is very DVF!”

young girls to be bold and play with their personal style. The legendary wrap is reinvented with a child-like higher waist detail, in

Gap is located at the Avenues, tel 2259 7320 and 360 Mall, tel. 2530 9646. For more information, please visit http://international.gapinc.com.

In the Green

THE ORGANIC “IT” BAG!

By House of Butterflies House of Butterflies is a unique project born in summer ‘11. Hanouf Aljuhail, the founder of HOB mentions that at first glance, one might wonder if HOB’s products fall under bags, baskets, or accessories? And many might question how and where to use them: are they for storage? Can we travel with them? Can I use them for gatherings or to package my gifts? Can it be a baby bag? Or can it be my workout bag? Can I use it as a food carrier for picnics or visits? The answer is YES to all of the above and much more. HOB products define the universality of green products. First, recycled material is processed in France and/or parts of Asia, then, and in an attempt to empower local business where needed, they are transferred to co-op communities in developed countries where skilled workers hand-make each and every piece. Once the shipment arrives in Kuwait, a portion of the sales is donated to various organizations that care for children with cancer.

For more information please contact HOB via the following portals: www.hobq8.com/ FB: House of Butterflies/ Twitter: @hobq8/ +965-99111217/ sales@hobq8.com and hob_q8@hotmail.com. www.lescerises.com (HOB is the sole Middle Eastern agent for the original French company la cerise sur le gâteau™).

en.v & Zain Announce The REUSE 5.0 Creative Exposition in Kuwait to Promote Eco-Friendly Living The en.v Initiative (en.v), an organization dedicated to social responsibility in the Arab world, and Zain, the leading mobile telecommunications provider, announce the launch of the REUSE exposition in Kuwait. In its fifth year, REUSE 5.0 will be held on April 19 – 21st and Earth Day (22nd) from 5 to 9pm daily at the Australian College of Kuwait (ACK).

REUSE 5.0 will serve as an opportunity for nonprofit organizations, companies, professionals and aspiring creative talents to showcase their accomplishments in the fields of social responsibility and sustainability via a range of artistic mediums and interactive activities for the general public.

This year’s exhibit will feature internationally recognized artist Hassan Hajjaj and critically acclaimed graphic designer Tarek Atrissi. Zahed Sultan, the Managing Partner and CEO of en.v, has also written and released four songs as an EP (short album) to commemorate this year’s exhibit. The “Reuse Me – EP” is available for download on all major online music stores such as iTunes and Amazon.

In accordance with The en.v Initiative’s ethos towards environmental responsibility, REUSE is devised, executed as a “Carbon Neutral” event.

Accordingly, en.v ensures environmental concerns are addressed and documented during every phase of the exposition. Upon completion of the exposition, en.v conducts an internal carbon footprint audit and offsets all emissions by investing in a “Climate Friendly” project.

If you’d like to contact Hiba Arshad you can send her an e-mail on hiba.arshad93@hotmail.com or get in touch through the I AM Challenge-Kuwait Facebook page: www.facebook.com/iamchallengekuwait

For more information please visit the official REUSE blog:www.projectreuseme.com.

I AM Challenge-Kuwait

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Hiba Arshad is 18 years old, and the best way to describe her is a ‘tree-hugger’. As an 18 year old social activist, Hiba focuses on the issues of youth empowerment, social responsibility and environmental protection. As a British Council Global Changemaker, she attended the Global Youth Summit in 2010, a platform which brings together young activists from around the world, and it was from there that she got the idea to start a youth movement in Kuwait that tackles these three issues. In 2011, Hiba founded the youth movement ‘I AM Challenge-Kuwait,’ assisted be her friend Saif Rangwala. ‘I AM Challenge-Kuwait’ dares teenagers to wear a shirt with ‘I AM (their name)’ written on it, for one whole year everywhere they go, to make their mark in today’s materialistic society.

This initiative also empowers the youth to raise awareness for causes they are passionate about, and in 2011 gave a spotlight to environmental protection. Hiba has organized several awareness campaigns with I AM Challenge-Kuwait. The most notable of these was the ‘I AM Recycling’ exhibition which put up for sale merchandise hand-made from recycled items to raise awareness of how things can be reused, reduced and recycled.

ISTIDAMAH ENVIRONMENTAL SOUTIONS Istidamah Environmental Solutions is a Kuwaiti Shareholding Company. Founded in 2010, Istidamah identified the growing demand for clean technology in the MENA region and is focused on providing state of the art environmental solutions and services to both the government and private sectors alike.

Istidamah is primarily focused on development of projects and services in the field of municipal, industrial and hazardous waste management, treatment and recycling, as well as the development of renewable energy projects with particular

emphasis on waste to energy, solar and wind infrastructure projects. Their vision is to develop long term partnerships and strategic alliances with specialist providers, technical experts and governmental institutions to ultimately develop, own and operate specialized waste management, recycling and alternative energy facilities across the MENA region. Realizing the large levels of office waste generated in Kuwait that ends up in landfill sites, Istidamah’s “Green Step” CSR program was set up to tackle this particular problem. Green Step is offering a simple service package that offers environmentally responsible businesses the opportunity to divert and recycle their office waste. In addition to office waste recycling, the program also offers extended value proposition by incorporating education and awareness training targeted at internal organization as well as the wider public represented by children and school students.

For more information on REISSWOLF services please visit: www.reisswolfkuwait.com or call 2225 6500.

Contact them via email info@reisswolfkuwait.com.

PressDesigns is a concept store that offers a range of products designed by the interdisciplinary studio PAD 10 and manufactured from reused matter sourced from sister company 4Films, a leading printing press.

The materials utilized in crafting the collection include paper, wood, metal and acrylic. The eco-friendly aspect of the stationery is highlighted by the luxurious quality of paper used to make the notebooks and sketchbooks.

The latest collection of notebooks features whimsical cover designs by artist Amarante Milpic. PressDesigns is currently in the process of launching an e-commerce website, making it more convenient for customers to browse and make purchases.

METAL & RECYCLING ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM

For more information, log on to www.pressdesigns.net or call 2482 0150 Ext: 130

structured to be ecological and environmentally sensitive, so when you are looking for the security, comfort, and confidence to dispose of your confidential data: REISSWOLF secret. service.

COMPANY’S

(MRC)

For more information on IES services please visit: www.istidamah.com or call 2225 0663. Contact them via email info@istidamah.com or follow them @istidamahq8.

Newair This Newair Environmental program is one innovative approach launched by MRC that assists participating companies in Kuwait to adopt environmentally friendly practices when disposing waste. A number of conscientious companies have already joined this initiative. The aim is to recycle materials where and when possible, thus reducing the landfill areas currently being devoted to the disposal of cans, paper, plastic bottles and other items, such as e-waste and cardboard and plastic packaging. The service also includes government entities, mosques, schools, and universities. Not to mention individuals and homeowners who are constantly striving to keep our environment greener and healthier.

The REISSWOLF Group was the first European service provider for data security. Today, REISSWOLF is market leader in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Sweden and now in Kuwait. REISSWOLF will provide your company with secure containers tailored to your specific needs from the beginning to the end. Every part of our service is fully integrated, starting from the paper disposal through the shredding of your data such as disks, microfilms, CD’s and hard disks. More than 67 facilities in over 26 countries supply you with full access to a network of security personnel, security containers along with the highest quality standards you will find hard to match. Electronic waste destruction & recycling: REISSWOLF is capable of shredding hard drives and mobile phones e-waste to a point beyond data reconstruction. All our solutions are

Recently, MRC launched a dedicated call center to provide a unique customer services experience to its clients, the number is 2298-6222.

PressDesigns

SOLARITY Solarity is the first store of its kind, it sells a range of different products that all work using solar energy. As the region is blessed with constant powerful sun they thought it would be a waste not to take advantage of the opportunity, this way we are utilizing natural forms of energy and cutting back on electricity. As an environmentally conscious business, Solarity has entered the market to gradually educate people on the perks of solar energy, the aim is to start slow, in homes or chalets or when going camping, products like garden lights or decorative lights that usually hike electricity bills could be eliminated now with solar powered products. The store houses a variety of products ranging from party lights and phone chargers to solar generators and car ventilators that draw hot, stagnant air out of your car and fresh cooler air back into your car, environmentally friendly and extremely useful for our hot summers!

For more information please email: solaritykwt@hotmail.com or call 9990 8446.

Follow them on Twitter: www.twitter.com/solaritykwt. like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/solaritykwt.

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Q CAFÉ Simple food made well By bazaar staff

This bazaar editor might be on an extreme diet, yet when the opportunity presented itself to try the new menu at the rustically chic Q café located at The Village restaurant complex, I quickly scheduled in the date with a huge smiley, followed by, “Celebration 82

meal day”. I’ve heard countless raving reviews about the desserts, homemade pastas, and a tantalizing Saffron infused Striploin on skewers that were gaining momentum amongst bloggers, and our very own bazaar designer.

Envisioned to deliver a full dining experience, the concept of Q café has evolved greatly. Greeting us at the new location is Arwa Behbehani, who passionately explains to us how Q café’s journey is reaching new milestones. “Before, Q café was focused on sandwiches and finger foods, a menu that effectively catered to our Kuwait City customers. According to this new location, we wished to offer customers more options, and a full dining experience. Rather than a quick bite to eat, we offer customers much more—simple food made well. The food is familiar, as if you are having it at your house, neatly served on a clean, white plate.” Desiring simplicity is a tribute to the concept of less is more, when a simple dish is pure in form; it delivers a bounty of tastes. Arwa further adds, “I wanted simplicity, a restaurant untethered to a certain kind of cuisine. Our definition of fusion is offering different plates from different cultures, presented in its purest form, like pure Egyptian and Persian, all in one menu. Not only so, the menu is also prominent with recipes created by local moms throughout our appetizers, entrees, and even desserts. For instance, the Chinese chicken salad and the Mom’s cake, to create that ‘made at home’ taste, that uniquely defines the culinary experience at Q café.”

Staying true to Arwa’s words, the décor at Q café is an ode to purity; the design is focused on elegant typography portrayed in its signage and concrete raw materials. The space is rough, yet the naked floors and bare walls are charged with a cozy ambience. We couldn’t help but notice the seating areas fashioned out of blocks of cement, delicate light fixtures hanging off the untreated ceilings, the sun’s rays infusing the inside

with warmth though the large, floor to ceiling windows.

As we settled down to our meal, we are first presented with one of many sharing platters, “just for nibbling”, as Arwa mentions, comically cautioning us to save space for dessert and Vietnamese coffee later. The Eggplant platter arrives, with sour cream topping, and a diced concoction of herb-infused eggplant. A pleasure to consume, we generously spread the freshly baked bread with a dollop of olive oil, followed by the diced eggplant, added the sour cream, and voila—we were willing to spend the entire afternoon enjoying this platter!

Soon after, our appetizers followed. We decided to dig into the Sicilian Eggplant Boat, with a half roasted eggplant stuffed with cheesy tomato sauce, croutons, and Parmesan, topped with a layer of slightly crisped and golden mozzarella. Paying attention to using seasonal ingredients, we immediately noticed how the vegetable was vibrant with taste. The famous Striploin on skewers closely followed, and the Saffron marinated cuts sprinkled with mustard sauce offers an unusually delicious taste. One would imagine that Saffron, a strong, aromatic spice, would overpower the beef, yet the Saffron wonderfully tenderized the beef, making us wish we ordered ten portions of this appetizer.

Yet, we cautioned our greed and waited for the salads, which, if served alone, can make for a filling entrée. The star mom recipe, the Chinese Chicken Salad is another personal favorite, with Romaine lettuce tossed in soy dressing served with a choice of caramelized shrimp or grilled chicken. We also enjoyed the Strawberry salad, a mix of crunchy Rocca and baby spinach, finely chopped onions, and the opposing texture and sweetness of fresh strawberries served with

a balsamic dressing had us salivating for more!

When it came to the pastas, Arwa recommended we try the homemade stuffed gnocchi with a smooth blend of sundried tomato and cheese, topped with a spicy creamy sauce. Bursting with fragrant rosemary, we loved the softness of the gnocchi, urging Arwa to continue blessing us with these Italian delicacies.

Soon enough, we tried the Saffron and shrimp risotto; sensually blended and expertly cooked. We also sampled the Roast Salmon, succulently roasted, and served with a lemon-infused couscous with sautéed fresh spinach. We personally loved how a Western dish like roasted salmon was given a fine Mediterranean flair.

As for desserts, we were so surprised by the abundance of sinful dishes on offer. We started off with the signature Butterscotch Chocolate Pudding, drenched in a delicious homemade butterscotch sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Another dessert delicacy presents itself with the Chocolate Fondant that is baked to order; chili-flavored rich chocolate if desired, with vanilla ice cream and sprinkled hazelnut.

After this diving intervention, we tried the ever-so-light and airy Tiramisu. For those who love their coffee, a shot of espresso is served alongside this heavenly dessert to caffeinate that Tiramisu as you see fit. Genius idea!

Arwa further stressed that we could not leave without trying the Guilty pleasures. This dessert is the utmost indulgence one can imagine, envisioned in one dish.

With golden slices of brioche, secretly prepared to ooze with buttery yumminess and seasoned to surprise the taste buds, a side of a specially prepared Nutella ganache, toffee sauce, and an added edge of flavor that is present in rock salt is served for you to assemble as you please. One cannot leave Q café without trying this dessert; we absolutely devoured this plate to its very last drop of Nutella ganache.

For more information about Q café please log onto www.qcafe.com.kw or call their hot line: 96696539.

Follow them on Twitter and Instagram @qcafe_ and Instagram qcafe.

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XCITE.COM Kick-starting the e-commerce revolution in Kuwait By bazaar staff

At xcite.com they are trying to do things a little differently. Looking for the fresh, dotcom feel, they chose to set up office around the back of the Alghanim Industries main building in portacabins.

The offices are open plan and nobody has a set desk. It’s a fluid work environment and this is what they are aiming for. By breaking down traditional business hierarchies they hope to achieve a creative space that encourages teamwork and a collaborative approach to this new venture.

Everybody works on a laptop and is connected wirelessly, so people can up and move to another spot in the office if they feel like it. TV screens, mounted on every wall, deliver analytics keeping the team up to the minute of what is happening on their site.

The team itself is a mixture of new hires and established Alghanim staff - the new blood bringing in the e-commerce spirit and know-how, the others ensuring the values of the Alghanim brand that consumers know and trust remain.

They went live on December 15th 2011 and sales have been steadily building as people in Kuwait adapt to local e-commerce concepts. They are positioning themselves as a trusted online alternative to visiting their physical stores for people who don’t have the time or inclination to do so. They want consumers to think of xcite.com as a store in your living room.

For those already well versed in ordering online, having products shipped from America or Europe, they want to show them the benefits of ordering locally; customers will receive their orders within 84

48 hours, orders over KD20 qualify for free delivery (KD2 otherwise) and all products are delivered by customer service representatives who will install the product and even give a demo, if required. These are not simply delivery drivers; they are fully trained x-cite staff and so can answer any questions you may have about your new product.

For those still not fully trusting of online shopping, xcite.com offer a pay on delivery service that allows the customer to place their order online without giving out any bank or card details. When the product is delivered, the customer can pay by cash, K-net, or credit card. They see this as a great way to ease people into e-commerce.

The first thing you notice when visiting xcite.com is how clean and simple the layout of the website is.

A carousel informs of the latest products and special offers. The ‘Deal of the Day’ offers one deal, on one product, every day at a great price. This is an online exclusive offer. Links to the Facebook and Twitter accounts can be found at the top of the site. The site can also be switched from English to Arabic at the click of a button. The Arabic content is unlike other sites as they create original Arabic content for each product. This means full Arabic product descriptions down to the smallest detail. The language can be switched at any time and you will remain exactly where you were on the site (you won’t get bounced back to the home page).

As with anything today, social media has to be strongly present. They offer separate Arabic and English Twitter accounts and their Facebook page

operates in both languages, too. Not only will you be informed of competitions, deals of the day and new product launches, but here you can also dialogue directly with the xcite.com team with product queries, for more information, or even just to say ‘hey’.

If you’re looking for a secure, trusted source for a hassle-free online shopping experience, then xcite.com is the place to go.

Simply visit:

THE GRILL-LESS PICNIC

By Sumayyah Meehan

Picnic – (pik-nik) noun - an excursion or outing in which the participants share a meal in the open air.

Picture it. You wake up early Friday morning and get decked out in your finest clothing, completely ready for spending the day in Kuwait’s great urban metropolis. You’ve coifed your hair to perfection or wrapped that hijab just right. A splash of perfume and a touch of lip-gloss is all you need to finish your ‘look’. You hit the road and stop by one of the countless seaside areas around Kuwait. As you walk merrily along the seashore, breathing in all that fresh air, you are suddenly bombarded with thick smoke from a barbecue grill. For the rest of the day, and possibly several days to come, you cannot get the smell of smoky lamb kababs and chicken out of every pore. Your Friday excursion, and that of countless others, is ruined.

The Friday barbecue phenomenon is evident on every patch of grass you can find in Kuwait from noon until well after midnight year round. The barbecue enthusiasts congregate together, kind of like a swarm of hungry locusts, and grill like there’s no tomorrow.

The resulting plumes of smoke eerily make the Kuwaiti landscape look like Armageddon. Outdoor grilling is annoying for many of Kuwait’s denizens and poses a 86

fire hazard in public places. It also takes a toll on the environment as charcoal emits five times more carbon dioxide (CO2), which eats away at the ozone layer, than cooking gas. It is possible to have an amazing picnic minus the grill!

The Deli-Style Picnic Many grocery stores in Kuwait now offer deli counters resplendent in various deli meats, cheeses and as many side dishes as you can shake a stick at.

The variety is so immense that every member of the family will be pleased. Pack a variety of breads and condiments, such a mustard or mayonnaise, to seal the deal. Without having to fuss over a hot and smoky grill, families can truly enjoy each other’s company as well as great food.

The Vegan’s Picnic A picnic comprised of fruit and vegetables is a healthful option when eating outdoors. Preparing the food could not be easier since fruit requires no cooking and can simply be eaten right out of the peel. As for the vegetables, a giant garden salad or even pasta salad full of veggies is one of the easiest picnic foods around. Be sure to pack your favorite salad dressing and crunchy toppings, like croutons or almonds, to give more of a wallop to the meal.

The ‘Home’ Cooked Picnic It’s much easier to prepare meals at home than to cook outdoors on a grill, especially when weather conditions are not ideal. The abundance of insulated food keepers in local Kuwaiti stores makes keeping the food hot while in transit to the picnic location a cinch. Prepare family favorites and traditional recipes early in the morning for a lunchtime picnic in one of Kuwait’s gardens.

The Take Away Advantage When all else fails, there is nothing wrong with picking up take out at your favorite pizzeria or burger joint. Simply pull up to the drive-thru window, order and head out to your picnic location. The downside is the abundance of waste (i.e. wrappers, disposable containers). Make sure to throw the trash in the proper receptacle and keep the picnic area as clean as it was when you found it.

Once the food is taken care of, the only other things you need to pack are a large blanket, plenty of friends or family and tons of conversation! Take advantage of the gorgeous weather while it lasts. Engage in an impromptu soccer match or go roller-blading. After all, a picnic is not just about the food. It’s also about having fun!

YOFORIA Euphoric frozen yogurt By bazaar staff

Yoforia, located in the recently opened Food Circle in Mishref, is the latest arrival in the froyo market here in Kuwait. The store is fresh, modern and has an almost futuristic feel to it. As you walk in you’ll be drawn to the counter where myriad toppings await, but you’ll be getting ahead of yourself.

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First you need to head around to the other side of the store to pick up a cup for your yogurt. Here you’ll encounter a TV on the wall with five simple instructions. The first step is to sanitize your hands.

Sure enough, underneath the TV is a dispenser. With hands sanitized you can now choose your yogurt cup as instructed in step 2 (don’t worry about cup

size at this point). Now comes the fun part - step 3 tells you to fill your cup with yogurt, and this is what makes Yoforia stand out in the froyo market – you get to operate the machine and can decide exactly how much and how many flavors you want. Don’t worry if you’re a little apprehensive about operating the machines, the friendly staff are on hand to show you how it’s done. They have six Taylor Soft Serve Freezers (the gold standard for frozen yogurt), each dispensing two flavors offering a total of twelve. At each freezer you can mix the two flavors to create a custom flavor. The pairings of flavors at each machine complement each other such as Vanilla Bean and Dark Chocolate. Other flavors include Pomegranate, Mango, Saffron, Pistachio and of course Original.

They even offer Vimto yogurt for those looking for the taste of Ramadan all year round! A non-dairy Raspberry Sorbet is available for those who don’t eat milk products.

Now it’s time to get to that counter for the toppings as step 4 instructs you to do. The toppings can be found separated into four categories; sweets like gummy bears and worms, sour patch kids and marshmallows; chocolate goodies like Maltesers, Oreo Cookies and Snickers; cereal goodies such as Cap’n Crunch and Mini Weetabix and finally fruits like blueberries, strawberries, kiwi and banana. As with the yogurt, this is all down to you. There’s no staff member counting out your blueberries here!

With your cup in hand, filled with exactly what you want and precisely how much, it’s time to move to the final step of the TV’s instructions – step 5, weight and pay. And herein lies the beauty of Yoforia, you pay for your yogurt by weight. So if you want only Dark Chocolate frozen yogurt with hundreds of Maltesers piled on top, then that’s what you pay for (Maltesers are light remember).

If you want a dollop of each flavor and one piece of each topping, go right ahead. That’s what you’ll pay for. This approach is perfect for kids who can have somewhat strange tastes. One final bonus; no matter how much you fill your cup, they have a KD3 maximum charge. So you can fill your cup to the brim with anything you want, safe in the knowledge that you won’t be charged more than this when you pay.

So if you’re looking for a fresh take on the frozen yogurt concept, Yoforia is definitely worth checking out. The yogurt has a great taste and you’ll never tire of the many flavor combinations. They have thirty flavors available and will be running a social media campaign soon to allow customers to vote in their favourite flavors.

Yoforia is located in the Food Circle in Mishref.

Visit www.yoforia.com for more information.

SAFAT HOME

HANS HESS Elevating burgers through better ingredients By bazaar staff

With US-based Elevation Burger firmly established in Kuwait at The Avenues, a second location opening next month in Al-Hamra Mall, a location in Bahrain and more coming in Dubai, 90

Muscat and Riyadh, bazaar thought it would be a good idea to sit down with the CEO and Founder of Elevation Burger and find out just what make his burgers taste so damn good.

Hans Hess founded Elevation Burger in 2004 for purely selfish reasons; he could not find the burger he wanted at any other burger place. Lucky for us then that Hess has great taste. The burger he was looking for was made from freshly ground, organic, grass-fed beef. He tells me, “We started eating organic and started thinking about what our kids would be eating, we knew that families, and people in general, were looking for a product that didn’t exist in the marketplace.” Hess doesn’t think that the humble burger is an inherently unhealthy food despite the tough press it’s received over the years.

Beef in itself is not unhealthy. “Grass-fed, organic beef is much different than factory-farmed beef burgers,” he tells me. Factory beef is fed corn because it is a very cheap source of calories that will fatten the cow quickly. Cows’ stomachs’ however, are not designed to process grain and so they get sick. To ensure the cow reaches the desired weight, they mix antibiotics in with the grain. Add to this the fact that the cows are cramped together in feedlots where airborne bacteria also cause respiratory infections and what you end up with is, simply, sick cows. This produces a beef lacking in nutrients and vitamins, but loaded with antibiotics that get passed onto the eater. Hess tells me that in the US, 240,000 people a year require a medical grade dose of antibiotics to fight off various illnesses, as their bodies have built up resistance to regular doses due to antibiotic intake from factory beef.

How do you solve this? The beef Elevation Burger uses comes from cows that graze in pastures and eat only grass. That’s it. This results in healthier cows which in turn produce healthier beef, packed with nutrients and vitamins. Take that beef and grind it fresh everyday on the premises and what you get is downright tasty burgers for the customer.

So Hess chose the name Elevation to illustrate what he wanted to do – take the classic burger and make it better. He tells me, “We are all about simple.

The best way to build a brand is to focus on one thing. It’s hard enough to do one product really well and we’re not interested in distracting ourselves with other things.” This is why you won’t find any chicken on their menu, or breakfast items, not even hot dogs.

Hess continues, “we have a focus on delivering the right product and delivering it excellently.” He set out to elevate the burger and so that’s where the sole focus stays.

When Hess talks about delivering his product with excellence, there’s a lot more to it than just his beef. A lot of the materials they use to construct their stores are sustainable. Bamboo flooring paired with recycled tiles, and tables made from a by-product of sorghum grass to name a few. The tables are not only sustainable; the sorghum also produces a beautiful finish. Elevation Burger uses one of the most energy efficient griddles on the market to cook their burgers and they also recycle discarded oil into biodiesel.

It seems those new to Elevation Burger come for

differing reasons. Some are drawn to the organic aspect and then keep coming back because the burgers taste so good. Others hear about the burgers and later learn about organic, grass-fed, and all the other benefits. Either way, everybody ultimately eats here because they serve great food. Hess explains, “The consumer starts with taste. Two-thirds of any given population won’t be judging you on whether it’s organic or not, they’ll judge you on taste and so it has to taste good.” He tells me how the organic and sustainable food market has doubled in the last ten years in the US. Books like Fast Food Nation and The Omnivore’s Dilemma, and films like Supersize Me and Food, Inc have helped outline the problems with mass produced, processed food.

But if we’re being honest, most people would prefer to devour a burger than a book. Hess tells me, “Not many people are going to pick up ‘The Omnivore’s Dilemma’ so it’s up to people like us to actually make it real in people lives.” What better way to do this than taking all the information available, translating it to better ingredients, grilling up something entirely tangible, smothering it in cheese (real cheese, of course), serving it up with fries cooked in heart-healthy olive oil and allowing people to simply taste the difference.

You may, for good reason, be asking yourself then, why all beef is not grass-fed. The simple answer is that farming in the US is big business. Hess tells me that in the USA, 16 million acres of corn is grown for

the sole purpose of feeding cattle. Industrial farming uses heavy equipment that runs on petroleum based products and they also spray the crops with petroleum based fertilizers. Grassland should be carbon negative.

Farming corn like this isn’t even carbon neutral.

Growing corn produces carbon dioxide! Grazing cattle on this land would not only produce better beef but the grass would also sequester carbon dioxide. The problem; it is not as profitable.

Hess admits that he too is interested in profits but would like to make his by producing a better product. He tells me, “We are trying to make a dent in the problem, to tear a corner off the darkness, but it’s going to take much more than that to change the farming system.” But Elevation Burger is trying to make a difference and most importantly by doing so they are making a better burger, so everybody wins.

Hans Hess prefers his Elevation Burger with caramelized onions, dill pickles, ketchup and elevation sauce. However you order yours, and whether you eat it because it’s tasty or because it’s organic, you can always feel good about contributing to trying to make the world just a little better. So go ahead and order yourself another.

Elevation Burger is located in Phase II of The Avenues and will soon be opening in Al-Hamra Mall. For more information visit www.facebook.com/Elevationburger.kw or call 2259 7516.

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bazaar books Fiction reveals truth that reality obscures. ~ Jessamyn West

source: www.amazon.com

PERPETUAL EUPHORIA: ON THE DUTY TO BE HAPPY by Pascal Bruckner Happiness today is not just a possibility or an option but a requirement and a duty. To fail to be happy is to fail utterly. Happiness has become a religion—one whose smiley-faced good looks down in rebuke upon everyone who hasn't yet attained the blessed state of perpetual euphoria. How has a liberating principle of the Enlightenment—the right to pursue happiness—become the unavoidable and burdensome responsibility to be happy? How did we become unhappy about not being happy—and what might we do to escape this predicament? In Perpetual Euphoria, Pascal Bruckner takes up these questions with all his unconventional wit, force, and brilliance, arguing that we might be happier if we simply abandoned our mad pursuit of happiness.

HILARITY ENSUES by Tucker Max Tucker Max received his B.A. from the University of Chicago and his J.D. from Duke Law School. His first book, I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell, was a #1 New York Times bestseller and spent more than 170 weeks on the list. He has also been credited with being the originator and leader of the literary genre “fratire,” and was nominated to Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential List in 2009.

He currently lives in Austin, Texas, and can be reached through his website, TuckerMax.com. Hilarity Ensues is Tucker Max’s third and final book in his series of stories about his drunken debauchery and ridiculous antics. What began as a simple sentence on an obscure website, “My name is Tucker Max, and I am an asshole,” and developed into two infamously genre-defining books, I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell and Assholes Finish First, ends here.

LET'S PRETEND THIS NEVER HAPPENED: (A Mostly True Memoir) by Jenny Lawson For fans of Tina Fey and David Sedaris—Internet star Jenny Lawson, aka The Bloggess, makes her literary debut. Jenny Lawson realized that the most mortifying moments of our lives—the ones we’d like to pretend never happened—are in fact the ones that define us. In Let’s Pretend This Never Happened, Lawson takes readers on a hilarious journey recalling her bizarre upbringing in rural Texas, her devastatingly awkward high school years, and her relationship with her long-suffering husband, Victor. Chapters include: “Stanley the Magical, Talking Squirrel”; “A Series of Angry Post-It Notes to My Husband”; “My Vagina Is Fine. Thanks for Asking”; “And Then I Snuck a Dead Cuban Alligator on an Airplane.” Pictures with captions (no one would believe these things without proof ) accompany the text.

YOU'RE NOT DOING IT RIGHT by Michael Ian Black Michael Ian Black has been hearing these five words all his life. And now—on the eve of his fortieth birthday—he is finally beginning to wonder why. . . . As a husband and father living in the suburbs, Michael asks the question so many of us ask ourselves at one point or another: How did I end up here? (And also: If Fat Kevin Federline succumbs to his own wasted potential, what does that mean for the rest of us?) The answers to these questions, and others that you probably would have never thought to ask, are painstakingly detailed in You’re Not Doing It Right, Michael Ian Black’s debut memoir. From the comedian who brought you Stella and The State, Michael Ian Black says the kinds of things you’re afraid to admit. Here he is: naked, exposed, a little chilly, and understandably shriveled.

AN UNEXPECTED TWIST by Andy Borowitz Andy Borowitz almost died, but lived to tell this stranger-than-fiction tale. In his first-ever work of autobiography, the comedian and New York Times bestselling author tells how a freakish medical condition descended upon him one October afternoon and led him to the brink of death – in a New York hospital “consistently rated one of the ten best in the country.” What happens when “one of the funniest people in America” (CBS News Sunday Morning) comes face to face with his own mortality? An Unexpected Twist is in equal parts harrowing and hilarious – and a moving affirmation of what it means to be alive.

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AGE DEFYING HAIR beau-tique launches the NEW luxury line from label.m professional haircare By bazaar staff

Did you know hair ages just like your skin? label.m professional haircare was launched last year by beautique cosmetics to the Kuwaiti market to be the one of the most premium haircare brands in the market, and to answer this question. As the masters of hair styling and hair care, this month beau-tiquel aunched the new luxury line “label.m Therapy Age-Defying Range”. The kick-off took place in a glamorous event at the Missoni Hotel in their luxurious Presidential Suite d’Oro where different leading first-class beauty salons in Kuwait were invited as well as prestigious members of the media and fashion/beauty bloggers.

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The event started with a presentation about the new products in the label.m Therapy line, where Jenna Long, the label.m Products’ Ambassador here in Kuwait, presented live model demos. The models’ hair was styled using four of the latest label.m products that were launched recently in Kuwait. These include: • label.m Sleek Blow-Out Cream: Used to help create a smooth perfect Blow Out with this lightweight, nourishing cream with Avocado Oil, Olive Fruit Extract and Acerola Fruit Extract to gloss, moisture and smooth.

It works to restore moisture lost due to heat styling, leaving hair soft and shiny for a fabulous frizz-free finish.

The exclusive Enviroshield Complex protects hair against heat styling and UV rays.

• Power Paste: For serious texture, movement and definition, it includes Shea Butter and Cupuacu Butter to provide a gentle, flexible hold. It leaves hair shiny and healthy and is Sulphate free, Paraben free and Sodium Chloride free.

• label.m Miracle Fibre: Adds an urban texture and provides elastic support to any style and length. It softens and protects whilst adding a touch of undone glamour to your look and doesn't weigh your hair down.

It is Sulphate free, Paraben free and Sodium Chloride free.

• label.m Dry Shampoo: Refreshes hair inbetween shampooing using natural Rich Starch to disperse oil.

Also works as a brilliant matt texturiser for a soft touch, velvety finish to the hair.

Beverley Van Staden, General Manager of Beautique Cosmetics Intl.,stated, “We’re very excited about this new range, and we believe it will do extremely well in the Kuwait market. Beverley also mentioned that they had another surprise in line, a comprehensive treatment range by label.m that’s due to launch soon.

The label.m Therapy Range unlocks the secret to beautiful, youthful looking hair. It has the Rejuven-8™ complex that combines 8 of the most technologicallyactive youth-enhancing ingredients which are White Caviar that reduces hair discoloration or graying, Iron Rose Crystal to smooth the hair and reduce coarseness, Glycolic Acid Extracted from Turbinado Sugars which is an anti-aging ingredient, Glycolic Acid extracted from Palm Sugars which protects and hydrate hair, Danish Hyaluronic Acid that delivers deep long-term hydration, French Lupine Lipo-Peptides for healthier hair radiance and illumination, African Baobab Tree to portect hair from pollution and stress, and finally the last ingredient which is European sweet Chestnut for hair revitalized effect. The new range consists of Therapy Age-Defying Shampoo, Therapy Age-Defying Conditioner, Therapy Age-Defying Protein Cream, and Therapy Age-Defying Recovery Mask.

For more information, please call 2225 1285, or visit www.beau-tiqueonline.com, or follow Beau-tique on Facebook, www.facebook.com/beautiquecosmetics, or on twitter, www.twitter.com/labelmkuwait.

MILANO Finally, the attention you deserve! Step into the Spring Summer season with this mantra: Bold, bright, edgy, sassy and strappy! Milano shows how to maximize on the IT colors of the season in the most fabulous trends. Choose electric shades of yellow to shine on like the sun, hot pink and coral for a bold and flirty look, orange for playful confidence, eye-catching green, and alluring shades of blue.

DAY GLOW BALLERINAS Rainbow colored ballerinas happily take your look from day to night— these gorgeous flats will keep you smiling! Wear these with your favorite, summer outfit to give your look an instant pop of color.

A HANDFUL OF FUN Inject your neutral look with a shot of delicious colors with the Milano handbag collection to satisfy your color cravings. Pair these lovelies with a toned down look, or style with other brights in the spirit of the season’s major color blocking trend.

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STRAPPY Say goodbye to shades of grey and camel and trade in your wintery boots for these neon brights sandals that will give your feet that summer loving attention they truly deserve!

NITIN MIRANI bazaar’s April Fool By bazaar staff

In February I was not only lucky enough to catch the Comedy Night at Live Theatre, I was also able to sit down with the star, Nitin Mirani, on the fifth and final day of his Kuwait show. If you didn’t get the chance to see the show, don’t worry. Live Theatre will be serving up some more laughs soon and as Nitin Mirani believes world domination (comically speaking) will be his, through his planned international shows, soon you won’t be able to miss him- and trust me, you wouldn’t want to.

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Nitin Mirani tells me he was an observant child; he loved watching people and still does, “I’ve always been a person who loves to observe mannerisms and how people react to situations - a little creepy, sitting and watching people - but I enjoyed seeing how different people react in the same situation. That used to make me smile.”

And this is an important point about Mirani; he takes what makes him smile and he passes it on to his audience. When you see him on stage you know that what he is telling you genuinely tickles him. I can

imagine him noticing the idiosyncrasies he describes on stage for the first time and smiling, the onstage delivery already forming in his mind. Even as an adult he still gives off the vibe of an excitable child - one who has nothing but passion for his subject - he talks of comedy with such enthusiasm you can’t help but get caught up in his world view. He tells me that to make people laugh, to make them happy, is his path in life. He shies away from getting too philosophical but he knows now that this is his purpose in life. He tells me, “I’m not selling jokes, I’m buying laughter” and I believe him. It becomes clear that he seems to almost get more out of the transaction than the audience does. Making people laugh makes Nitin happy; not because of money, fame, success, but simply because he made you laugh. That’s all he’s looking for.

Before his career in comedy began Nitin sold French fries, music, real estate, clothes, credit cards, was a producer for ZTV, worked in event management and was a fashion choreographer! Through events and fashion shows he was exposed, and attracted, to the stage and working that many jobs upturned a wealth of observations about people and our weird and

wonderful ways. Working in events, things inevitably went wrong and time needed to be filled. It was Nitin who was thrown on stage to do the filling. With nothing prepared this would be what comedians call ‘improv’, being tossed in at the deep end. Drowning is usually the simplest, and only, way out. When people came up to him later to tell him they enjoyed the event, but his filler five minutes were the highlight, he started thinking about his comedy more and more.

At a show called One Night Stand hosted at the Mövenpick Hotel in Dubai in 2008, Nitin was again asked to fill in, as one of the comedy acts hadn’t turned up. He stepped up and ended up outshining the main act. At the next show he was not only paid, but people came to see him specifically. Unfortunately he admits he then lost a year catering his comedy to Indians because he thought that being Indian obligated him to do Indian comedy. Then on February 13 2009 he stumbled upon a place called Comedy Lounge where Aron Kader, of Axis of Evil fame, was auditioning people. The next day Nitin brought the house downs (in Kader’s words) and made an important realization.

The audience was a cultural melting pot - Indian, American, Lebanese, Arab, Spanish, South African, Filipino - and they were all laughing. Comedy was universal. “Just because I make coffee,” he tells me, “does not make it Indian coffee – it’s still coffee.”

Later tagged the ‘glocal comedian’, because he adds local flavor to global comedy, Nitin seems to be the perfect source of comedy in our ever-shrinking global village. He is able look past colour, money, status, and see only that which makes us human and

what connects us on a fundamental level. When he performed on a USO ship in Dubai he was approached after the show by a Texan guy who told him, “Dude, my mum says the exact same words, that’s my mum!”

Nitin tells me, “People from different, cultures, different backgrounds, different walks of life go through the exact same thing, essentially we’re all equal.”

He’s performed all over; Mumbai, Bangalore, Indore, Bahrain, Muscat, Goa and most recently, Hong Kong, Thailand, Maldives, Egypt, New York and Toronto!

The show in New York was at Caroline’s on Broadway and was the first time in a long time that his legs were shaking before he went on stage. But the experience of performing on Broadway gave him the validation he needed, the confidence to know he was good at what he was doing. When he arrived in Kuwait to perform for five nights at Live Theatre he wasn’t concerned about offending people. “I don’t need to use bad language to be funny [although] the Middle East is the only place where I get paid to NOT say things, people hire me and say don’t talk about this, don’t talk about that and here’s your cheque.” But he loved that Kuwaitis were open to what he was doing and he was, as always, more than happy to be making them laugh. He admires what Jasem and Khalid Al Shaheen are doing at Live Theatre – like himself their only intention is to make people laugh, to give people good, clean entertainment. If anything he would describe his shows as naughty, rather than offensive.

He recently started acting, appearing in Dubai’s first international movie, City of Life. He is taking his Komic Sutra show on the road to South Africa,

Manila, Australia, and he’ll be doing another Komic Sutra Dubai soon, too. He admits to me that Komic Sutra is really just an extension of himself because he couldn’t call his show Nitin Mirani – he’s too shy still. “Komic Sutra is my mask, my cape” he tells me.

But it doesn’t matter what name he hides behind, when he’s onstage, Nitin Mirani the man, can’t help but you make you laugh. He always makes his show seem as local as possible and this is why it works. As he told us from the stage, when he arrived in Kuwait he wasn’t sure if he should say ‘Salaamu `Alaykum’ or ‘Wa `alaykum s-salām’. Maybe you never noticed that when you fly into Kuwait International Airport you arrive in departures and when you fly out you go from arrivals – they’re the same place. People can be too busy to notice the minutiae of everyday life – the little things. God is in the details as they say and it’s Nitin’s job to help us notice them.

“Stand-up comedy is pure, it’s unplugged. You have to let your guard down and expose yourself to people and hope they embrace you,” he tells me. To me this seems to apply not only to comedy, but to life in general. He tells me that, unlike most people today, he’s not in a particular hurry to get anywhere because he plans on making people laugh for a long time, and he’s in no rush to stop doing that.

Nitin Mirani is a Dubai based standup comedian, actor, MC and host. For more information visit: www.nitinmirani.com or www.facebook.com/nitinmirani. *Images courtesy of Tina Patni.

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LA SENZA Young, fun and flirty!

By bazaar staff

La Senza is the ultimate shopping destination for the young, fun, flirty, globe-trotting Lingerista! La Senza corporation operates more than 230 stores throughout Canada, and more than 500 franchise-operated stores in 48 countries around the world, making La Senza Lingerie the ultimate shopping destination for the hottest trends in bras, panties and playfully sexy lingerie at guilt-free prices.

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Offering women a unique shopping experience in a beautiful and intimate environment, La Senza stores feature an outstanding lingerie presentation of bras, panties, sleepwear and loungewear. The La Senza brand name has become synonymous with high quality, affordability and elegance and La Senza takes pride in dedicating itself to its customers and merchandise.

Last month, Marina Mall witnessed the grand opening of the new look La Senza store in partnership with Liwa Trading Enterprises LLC. The Marina Mall store is the first new-look La Senza store to open in Kuwait, and the company plans to roll out the new concept across the region in the near future.

Set to impress, the new Marina Mall store comes with a completly fresh store design and layout that is characterized by flirty feminine and fun polka-dots, pin– ups and sassy in-store artwork that reflect La Senza’s fashion-loving customers.

And while the look is always changing, the company’s renowned customer service remains, with friendly, knowledgeable staff and expert bra-fittings available as always.

For the spring collection, La Senza unveils the fun and bright collection with “POP COLOR”, a sexy combination of ultra violets, hot pinks, and vivid turquoises with flirty lace fabrics. Pop art, primitive prints and the disco era served as the main inspiration for a collection filled of electrifying looks that POP in and out of the boudoir, perfectly suited for the fun-loving Lingerista.

Another key fashion trend for this sizzling summer season is leopard print, which La Senza has combined with white lace and hints of pink. This trend is seen across bras, bustiers, camis and more.

With stand-out pieces including La Senza’s amazing double push up bra “Hello Sugar”, extreme cleavage enhancing baby dolls, sexy lace and cheeky cotton panties, you will be spoilt for choice!

La Senza has 8 branches in Kuwait please call 2571 2430/1 for more information.

For the latest updates, videos and offers why not check out La Senza on: https://www.facebook.com/LaSenzaME.

‫هم�س القناديل‬ ‫بقلم‪ :‬عبدالعزيز الحشاش‬

‫تغريده قد تنقذ حياتك‬ ‫يقول الخبر ‪ :‬حصل متهم محكوم عليه باإلعدام في والية‬ ‫أركنسو (جنوب الواليات المتحدة) على محاكمة ثانية بعد‬ ‫مثوله األول أمام القضاء‪ ،‬إذ كان أحد أعضاء هيئة المحلفين‬ ‫يغط في نوم عميق وآخر يوجه رسائل على «تويتر»‪ .‬وقد‬ ‫أبطلت محكمة أركنسو العليا حكم اإلعدام الصادر في حق‬ ‫إيريكسون ديماس مارتينيز وطلبت إجراء محاكمة جديدة‪.‬‬ ‫وبررت المحكمة القرار الذي اتخذته الخميس والذي حصلت‬ ‫وكالة فرانس برس على نسخة منه قائلة «نوم احد افراد هيئة‬ ‫المحلفين فيما اخر يوجه رسائل تويتر‪ ،‬تصرف خطأ من جانب‬ ‫هيئة المحلفين»‪ .‬وقد حكم على إيريكسون ديماس مارتينيز‬ ‫باإلعدام والسجن مدى الحياة بعد ادانته بتهمة القتل‬ ‫والسرقة‪ ،‬لكن محاميه استأنفوا هذا الحكم في عام ‪.2010‬‬ ‫لكن محكمة االستئناف رفضت طلبهم قبل أن توافق عليه‬ ‫المحكمة العليا‪.‬‬ ‫أستطيع أن أتخيل اآلن فرحة هذا المجرم المدان‪ ،‬فكيف‬ ‫الستخدام موقع مثل التويتر أن يعيد النظر في محاكمتك و‬ ‫ينقذ حياتك ‪ .‬قد أصدق أن إدمان التويتر و الفيسبوك ممكن‬ ‫أن يودي بحياتك بأن تكون قائدا لسيارتك في الطريق العام‬ ‫و عينك في هاتفك‪ ،‬و لكن أن ينقذ تويتر حياتك ‪ ..‬فهذه لم‬ ‫تخطر في البال أبدا ‪ ..‬و رب ضارة نافعة ‪.‬‬ ‫موسوعة جينيس‬

‫موسوعة غينيس لألرقام القياسية هو كتاب مرجعي‬ ‫يصدر سنويًا‪ ،‬يحتوي على األرقام القياسية العالمية‬ ‫المعروفة‪ .‬الكتاب بنفسه حقق رقم ًا قياس ًا‪ ،‬حيث أنه يعتبر‬ ‫سلسلة الكتب األكثر مبيعاً على اإلطالق‪ .‬تم إصدار أول‬ ‫نسخة من الموسوعة في ‪ 1955‬بواسطة شركة غينيس‪.‬‬ ‫وتعد هذه الموسوعة من أدق المراجع التي يتم الرجوع‬ ‫إليها في معرفة األرقام القياسية‪ .‬و آخر الدول التي تسعى‬ ‫و بشكل دائم و مميز للدخول في هذه الموسوعة هي دولة‬ ‫اإلمارات العربية المتحدة و بالتحديد إمارة دبي‪ ،‬حيث أنتج‬ ‫مصنع للحلويات في اإلمارات أضخم «قالب شكوالتة في‬ ‫العالم» بوزن يزيد على ‪ 350‬كيلو غراما ويجري تسجيله في‬ ‫موسوعة «غينيس» لالرقام القياسية‪.‬‬ ‫وقال مصنع «سويت وييف» إن القالب مزين بما يقرب‬ ‫من ‪ 14‬ألف و‪ 600‬قطعة شكوالتة سوداء وبيضاء وقد‬ ‫استغرق تنفيذه ‪ 100‬ساعة من العمل المتواصل‪.‬‬ ‫والقالب أشبه بلوحة فسيفساء ضخمة‪ ،‬اذ تم تزيينه‬ ‫بقوالب شكوالتة بيضاء تحمل صورا لقادة االمارات‪ ،‬وصورا‬ ‫لالنجازات العمرانية والتنموية العمالقة التي تشهدها‬ ‫الدولة‪ .‬ويتم عرض القالب حاليا في القرية العالمية ومن‬ ‫المقرر ان يعرض في مواقع سياحية وفنادق كبرى ليعرض‬ ‫أمام أبناء الدولة والمقيمين والسائحين‪.‬‬ ‫ورأت إدارة المصنع اللبنانية أن تصنيع هذا القالب‬

‫العمالق‪ ،‬كنوع من رد الجميل لدولة االمارات‪ ،‬التي يعمل‬ ‫فيها هذا المصنع منذ اكثر من ‪ 17‬عاما‪.‬‬ ‫وعدد قطع الشكوالتة المزين بها القالب تمثل مجموع ايام‬ ‫‪ 40‬عاما‪ ،‬أما تكلفته فتقدر بـ ‪ 75‬ألف درهم ( ‪ 20.4‬ألف دوالر) ‪.‬‬ ‫عواصم غريبة و مضحكة‬ ‫سُميت مدينة بريستون البريطانية عاصمة التنانير‬ ‫القصيرة لكون فتياتها يشترين أكبر عدد منها بالمقارنة‬ ‫مع نظيراتهن في المدن األخرى‪ ،‬وال يأبهن إن عبث الهواء‬ ‫الشديد بتنانيرهن‪.‬‬ ‫ووجدت دراسة جديدة أن متاجر المالبس النسائية في‬ ‫المدينة الواقعة بمقاطعة النكشاير باعت أكبر قدر من‬ ‫التنانير القصيرة من أي مكان آخر في بريطانيا‪.‬‬ ‫وأشارت الدراسة إلى أن مبيعات التنانير القصيرة‬ ‫الضيقة الشبيهة بالقلم كانت األعلى في لندن ومقاطعة‬ ‫هارتفوردشاير‪ ،‬فيما شهدت‬ ‫الفساتين الكالسيكية المفضلة من قبل دوقة كيمبريدج‬ ‫وشقيقتها بيبا ميدلتون‪ ،‬إقبا ً‬ ‫ال واسعاً في مقاطعتي ساري‬ ‫وبيركشاير‪ ،‬واقدمت على شرائها واحدة من كل خمس‬ ‫سيدات‪ .‬كما أشارت الدراسة الى أن نساء ويلز يفضّلن‬ ‫فساتين الكتف الواحد‪ ،‬فيما تفضّل فتيات مناطق شمال‬ ‫شرق بريطانيا التنانير السوداء القصيرة‪.‬‬ ‫و للعواصم في أسماءها شؤون‬ ‫‪102‬‬

two cents

Loaay’s Two Cents Got business problems or challenges at work? With his Two Cents column, Loaay Ahmed shares his expertise in strategic management consulting to help managers, employees and entrepreneurs thrive.

Q

With all this corporate financial failures worldwide and the never-ending crises, isn't it time to let Islamic finance take the lead to fix all this mess?

LA: The term ‘Islamic Finance” is fascinating in the literal sense.

It gives the illusion of other types of Finance, one that is Christian or Jewish, for example. I wonder what a Buddhist Finance would be like.

Personification aside, Finance doesn’t have a religion. Islam has set some principles for society to spread justice in commercial transactions and to protect buyers from exploitations of greedy sellers. If such principles are needed, then anyone, Muslim or otherwise, can apply them ethically and legally to improve the outcome of their transactions. However, justice, no exploitation, reasonable dividends generated from investing in tangible ethical and responsible businesses are values that might not be of interest to all investors regardless of what their religious beliefs are. They’re after BIG profits, period.

There are many companies in the Muslim world that have been suffering since 2008 and they are Sharia compliant. They have been following Islamic principles wholeheartedly and yet they got badly hit like others – which makes one question the validity of such a system – or was “Sharia compliant” just a marketing label and the soul of their operation was Western capitalism in disguise? What the commercial world needs now is: First, to realize that the current system is clearly not working for the majority of investors. Second, to design or apply a system, be it based on Islamic principles or not, as a genuine attempt to take a different approach for better results rather than just wearing a different mask on the same face…and that’s just my two cents.

Q

When it comes to hiring new managers, what do you recommend that we look for to have an exceptional performance?

LA: Depending on what generation you hail from, images of angry bores, lazy koalas (even slower than regular koalas) or slithering corporate ladder climbers come to mind when you think of the word “Manager”. Basically, companies with all their corporate wisdom decided that as labor needs a foreman, employees need a manager to handle them. Over the years, as the quality of employees got more sophisticated, work got more complicated and projects kept piling up on more desks making what looks like a paper file cityscape from across many departments’ floors, managers became responsible for executing work in addition to ‘handling’ their subordinates. Most companies have been applying this formula for decades without considering an alternative structure. A small number of brave companies dared to think different and experiment in unconventional formulas.

Meet Morning Star, the world's leading tomato ingredient processor, serving food processors throughout the world. Chris Rufer founded the company in 1970 with the basic philosophy of selfmanagement. The concept works around hiring professionals who are great at what they do and to give them the freedom to initiate communication with other strategic partners (colleagues, suppliers, customers, etc) to help them achieve personal corporate mission statements that have been mutually agreed upon by the employees to achieve the company’s goals. By eliminating nasty bosses, managers who do nothing but ‘supervise’ and directors who just spread fear and kill joy wherever they see it, employees are efficiently reaching targets with excitement and a great sense of entrepreneurial personal responsibility. If you want different results, try something different.

Go ahead, give it a squeeze…and that’s just my two cents.

Q

I care about the details. Many times, projects look good on paper but poor when it comes to execution. The problem is that I get sucked into the nitty gritty details and I lose track of the overall progress. Any tips on how to be balanced?

LA: When you look at an average simple digital camera (not your mobile’s camera, an actual camera) you’ll most likely see an option with a flower icon referring to a “Micro” setting. People use this option to capture details like the fuzzy hair on a flower leaf, for example, or the details of a fingerprint. In business, the term ‘micromanagement’ refers to those who are paying attention to the smallest details and forgetting or losing sight of the big picture. Macro management is an opposite term that refers to hovering from above like a helicopter pilot to see the whole scene where there’s a chance of missing small hidden objects.

Men are usually good at macro management. Women are often better at micromanagement.

The Superman and Wonder Woman of Planet Business are the ones who possess the “Miacro” gene. This is the ability to zoom in on the tiniest issues while having the second part of the brain processing that data into the overall project and adjusting accordingly on the spot. Details are important, but not all details. So, be selective about what details you need to give more attention to. Also, setting a timeframe is a great way to cut short the microscopic research. Defining success criteria is an essential way to determine what matters and what doesn’t. Nobody likes a poorly executed product, service or event. Also, nobody wants one that’s over cost or behind schedule…and that’s just my two cents.

For Loaay Ahmed's advice on business or work matters, send a short email to loaay@knightscapital.com. Please note that only the questions chosen for publishing will be answered.

Loaay Ahmed is a management consultant and strategic expert. To learn more about Loaay and his consulting service, strategic business therapy, visit www.knightscapital.com.

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THE CAREER FOR ME NBK By bazaar staff

‘Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow’, this should be the motivation for every graduate starting his or her career path.

Finding that path and following it can greatly depend on the organization that will help you grow. Throughout the past three years, the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) has recruited more than 1000 young Kuwaitis, of both genders, as part of its commitment to providing distinctive career opportunities to ambitious young Kuwaitis. Furthermore, more than 1000 NBK employees are annually enrolled in professional training and development programs especially designed for NBK staff provided by world-renowned institutions including the American University of Beirut and Ernst and Young.

The first milestone in the career of every NBK employee is the NBK Academy.

Here are the thoughts of NBK’s future managers, executives and employees.

Why did they join NBK? Abdullah D. Al Sharrad, Domestic Branches Department, studied Marketing at the American University of Kuwait, “Not only will I be working in a well known organization, NBK is the first bank recognized internationally and now... I am NBK.” Manar K. Al Fahad, Domestic Branches Department, studied Finance at Kuwait University, “Growing up, NBK is the only bank I knew. Working in the private sector only meant one place: NBK.” Mishari A. Al Abduljalil, Domestic Branches Department, studied Finance at Kuwait University, “NBK has proven to me that the more you give, the more you get in recognition and appreciation. No limits, the best thing about being part of the NBK family is the high expectations that are always set.”

Maha W. Al Faraj, Domestic Branches Department, studied Accounting at the American University of Kuwait, “I joined NBK to build a strong career foundation.

NBK does not only enrich your resume, it gives it value, recognition and is a boundary setter.”

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Mohammed A. Abul, Domestic Branches Department, studied Business Studies at the American University of Kuwait, “As an organization like NBK, it came with great surprise that they actually care. This is why I choose NBK; they chose to care for us and give us the right acknowledgement we deserve.”

Noor Noel Al Saif, Domestic Branches Department, majored in Global Communication, minored in Psychology at the American University of Paris, “Since day one we have been constantly reminded of the importance of merging individual potential: Synergy.”

Ahmed F. Bin Essa, Domestic Branches Department, studied Finance at the Lebanese American University, “NBK has managed to prove and make a name for itself in the market. I want to be part of the family that helped in creating that name.”

Tawfiqah M. Al Aradi, Domestic Branches Department, studied Finance at the Gulf University for Science and Technology, “I never thought I would work in the banking sector. But after seeing the career fair at my university, I knew NBK was the place for me. A name that I know, a business that will allow me to grow and a stable career.”

Fay M. Al Mutawah, Domestic Branches Department, studied Accounting at Kuwait University, “After all these years, NBK has managed to keep its name and has set the standards for success. NBK on any resume means leadership.”

Today, NBK’s training programs include the NBK Academy, the Summer Internship Program and the NBK High Fliers Program, the first of its kind in the region, in collaboration with the American University of Beirut. Building success, a name, a stellar reputation, and achieving your goals all start with the determination to make a difference; to be part of NBK. For more information, please visit www.nbk.com. To connect with NBK, find them on facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/NBK.fansand twitter by following www.twitter.com/NBKPage and Instagram @nbkpage.

artist of the month

JELLY SHOT Bringing Blues-Rock to the rooftops of Kuwait By bazaar staff

In April 2008, under a different name and style, who we now know as Jelly Shot, came to life. It wasn’t until 2009 that they found their groove and established themselves as the Blues-Rock band that you’ve come to know. With more band member changes than most would care for; from a 5-piece, to a 4-piece and finally to their current trio – This is their story.

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1. How did your musical journey begin?

Mubarak: It was an impulse thing, really. I started listening to general rock music ranging in styles, primarily metal at first and always enjoyed some of the bass work done on records by my favorite bands at the time. I thought about it for at least a couple of years before deciding to actually start trying out the electric bass. That's fundamentally how it all began.

Hashim: I've been playing guitar since high-school, so about 9 years now. Friends of mine at the time had a band that I always wanted to be a part of, so I worked and worked at it until I could join them. After joining them, it was just uphill from there. I practiced for hours and hours every day much to my parents’ dismay but I just kept at it, and here I am now.

Khalid: I was the school drummer when I was in kindergarten and I used to drum basically on anything in front of me. My parents bought me my first drum kit on my 16th birthday and that’s when it all started.

2. What/Who inspires you to write your music and lyrics?

Mubarak: This is a trick question for me. I simply can't pinpoint one major inspiration as it all comes in from my everyday events. That can range from a lot of different feelings and factors, which would serve as the basis for what I'm trying to send across. I'm not one for complex song-writing because I'd love to keep things simple and groovy in terms of lyrics and music, but on occasion I might dive into something new and different than what I'm used to. A lot of stories can serve as the basis for some songs, as I'm recently looking into supernatural and faith-related stories just so I can get an idea of where I can go with my lyrics, without going beyond the limits I've set for myself. In terms of actual music, I simply look into where a normal riff is capable of going and build on it from that very point, with the results either being positive or negative.

Hashim: Personally, inspiration comes from a wide array of places, a lot of the time I write based on what I hear or experience in life and from people I see day-today. However while writing this new album and working on my solo music, I've been diving into the fictional 'what if?' scenarios of writing, so some of the lyrics are quite different. Musically, my writing has been based on typical chord progressions but I tend to break the music down and see where I can change it to make it all a little unorthodox.

3. Is the final sound of a musical track an individual or group effort?

Mubarak: Definitely group effort. It just doesn't really work with one person writing out the entire track and having each member play what he or she wants them to. No, each member is going to eventually add something to it that gives a bit of their touch. Like, one of us could write an entire track completely on his own but once that song is given to the other members, we'll all eventually give the track our own personal signatures in terms of beats, riffs and solos, and that's where a track becomes a group effort. The band has its own sound and that sound is only achieved when all members collaborate.

Hashim: The final sound of a track in my opinion is the grouped effort of every member’s individual effort. Of course, as a band, everyone needs to be able to work together and there's this chemistry that is needed, but each individual member really needs to hold their end and bring everything they can to make the overall sound as good as it can get.

4. Who/What in your early beginnings influenced your music?

Mubarak: This is funny actually. Throughout the 4 years this band has been alive, we've gone through a number of styles until we eventually settled on BluesRock. It was something that just clicked and made me personally feel good about the kind of music I want to play in front of a live audience. It started with me watching a local Blues band play live and I thought to myself, "This is really good. I'm enjoying this kind of stuff." So, from that point on I tried to bring forth the Blues into this band while also maintaining a Rock N' Roll feel so the band could have its own sound. At first, I'll admit that I figured an all-Blues band could work, but eventually will each member's style, I thought it would be best to go Blues-Rock instead. Through a number of practices and studies of the two genres, I felt that if it were possible to combine the two genres while maintaining their respective fundamentals, we could give it our own various touches that have developed from each of our inspirations and backgrounds, and create something just a little bit different. I'd like to think that we have done that, while still developing our own sound at the same time.

5. In your opinion, what was the hardest challenge you faced in your musical career so far?

Hashim: As I have said a number of times, the main challenge to any band in Kuwait, including us, is the lack of shows we get. I have lost count of the number of times we had a show confirmed which cancelled on the day of the show, or even mid-show!

That being said, thankfully a lot of people are putting in the effort to bring shows back to Kuwait, or at

least increasing the awareness of bands in Kuwait.

Khalid: So far, what I’ve faced during my musical journey is the image associated with our music in society, which leads to the slow progression of the music scene in Kuwait.

6. Has the continuous change in band members deterred your will to keep going?

Mubarak: Admittedly, yes. Being the founder of the band and to this day, the longest serving member, I've witnessed each member-change we've had and to be honest, some were actually for the better. For the ones that helped build Jelly Shot, it was a bit of a roadblock. Thing is, you grow so close to those

members throughout the time you spend together and when one leaves, it almost feels like you're starting from scratch, so one could easily lose hope if it happens more than necessary. However, with each member we've lost, we've developed a different outlook on our style. Starting off as a 5-piece band, then a 4-piece and now a trio, the past experiences give us a view on what we can become as we are now, with different opportunities to try different things in our style of music and the way we write. I guess you can call it a good thing, as well.

Hashim: We've been through a lot since I joined the band 3 years ago, I mean the change in members continued on next page...

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really takes its toll on you and makes you wonder how much longer you really have to go before it all falls apart. However, with every member that came and left there was a change in how we looked at the music and how we wrote. It's frightening but at the same time exciting because we never knew what was next, what the new member could bring to the table, and what the old member took with them.

7. How has the change in band members impacted your group dynamic, if at all?

Mubarak: Our sound was much different than it is now. We had a more heavy and upbeat sound as a 4-piece and as a trio than we did when we first started out. We had to learn to balance out the sound to the point that it shows how well-organized we are with what we do.

Hashim: In all honesty, the only main changes we've 110

continued from previous page

seen in our sound is having to adapt to a more rocky style due to Khalid’s heavy musical background, and now with the departure of Wahab, we've learned to take more of a major role in filling out the sound where he left a void.

Khalid: Since I joined the band, I've seen a slight change in the music writing, where it has become a bit more groovy and funky as well as the original 'Jelly Shot blues' sound. Personally, the departure of Wahab didn’t feel right. Musically it didn’t take a lot out of our sound but as far as band chemistry and band presence goes, it doesn’t feel as comfortable as it was, but I guess change is good and a trio seems exciting and new.

8. How has the Middle East influenced your sound?

Mubarak: Honestly, it hasn't done much yet, but the idea that we could experiment with the different

Middle Eastern sounds and see what we could come up with to give our sound a bit of originality is there.

With lyrics, it all depends on what's going on at the point. We've done a song that refers to one massive dust storm that occurred about a year ago.

Hashim: Well, I don't know much about how it's affected our sound, that being said, we do plan on throwing in a bit of culture to our next release. Up until this point we've been trying to find, define and refine our sound to something we truly think fits what we do, so once we're dead set on who we are and what we sound like, we plan on throwing in more of a cultural influence into our music as a way to stand out.

9. Have your different backgrounds as band members influenced your sound over time?

Mubarak: Definitely. No question about that. I was essentially a rock and metal guy, influenced by driving riffs and galloping rhythms. After I discovered and studied the blues, I found it hard NOT to incorporate my roots even if I tried. The roots will always show, whether it's through the music or the lyrics. I personally play harder than most bassists who play the blues do, and that's all from my previous background. With each member, it's what they can bring to the table.

Khalid: I started off with 'nu-metal' and heavy metal as my musical background, and I've now settled with the new metal genres along with groovy music.

Having that added to Jelly Shot's sound, I can't say it didn’t change our sound at all, but I do feel it’s become a bit more progressive and funky rather than a the typical straight 12-bar blues track sound.

Hashim: Well my background was all over the place, I was primarily a punk rock and heavy metal fan but over time I started to listen to, and play, a lot of psychedelic rock and blues, so I think my relatively aggressive background shows its face now and again in the music we play, but it’s very subtle when it does.

It's considerably more evident in Khalid’s playing.

10. Do you feel that music should always serve a specific purpose?

Hashim: I don't necessarily think it should ALWAYS serve a purpose, music could just be written for the sake of being written, but music normally is written for a purpose of sorts, be it to make you feel a certain way, to tell a story, songs of revolution, songs of protest, the list goes on. However I try to write music that tells a story, or evokes some sort of emotion just for the sake of giving the song some sort of direction.

Khalid: Since is so inspirational to me, it should serve a specific purpose, however it doesn’t always need to serve a purpose. Music sometimes is just a way to just kick back and simply let go and enjoy the tunes.

11. What are some of your favorite tracks, and why?

Mubarak: I can't really say I have a favorite track.

I can have a new one every week until a new comes along and takes it place. For some odd reason, my most played song at the moment of writing is "Welcome To My Nightmare" by Alice Cooper. Is it a blues song? No. It’s a straight-up, old school rock and roll song that I just find groovy despite its dark nature

and lyrical theme. It's just an uncomplicated song that does the trick, and everything in it works perfectly. As far as Jelly Shot originals go, without being completely biased I have to pick "Katy J". Everything about it was just great, I feel. It’s the softest track on our EP, so it doesn't mean that the heaviest or most upbeat track has to take the note. It’s a beautifully structured song and I feel it captures the band at its very best in terms of lyrics and music.

Hashim: My favorite song changes pretty often, but as of right now, one of my favorites has to be 'Consoler of the Lonely' by The Raconteurs, it's got that grungy post-rock, heavy fuzz sound with a great groove that really gets your head bobbing to the beat.

The guitar, bass and vocal work are simple but truly effective, a brilliant song by a brilliant band. However if I'm to pick an original to name my favorite, it'd be a tie between “Finest Thing Alive” and “The Jam”, they both have a great groove to them and they're a whole load of fun to play!

Khalid: To me, basically anything by metal bands Meshuggah or Vildhjarta, as well as “Wonderful Slippery Thing” and “Waves” by Guthrie Govan, I consider them to be musically perfect tracks.

12. Do you prefer singing covers or your original music?

Mubarak: I'm going to say both. At first, we were just a cover band and for a while, I got hooked on to doing just that. With the recent writing that we've been doing, I find myself anxious to play our own material as well. I like to call it a split preference because we're not only presenting our material, but also a whole lot of songs that have inspired our sound.

Khalid: My opinion is: If we have originals, why play covers? Playing covers takes away the band's identity, having to perform originals gives the band the opportunity to establish a stronger musical ground and identity.

Hashim: I have always loved performing covers, because we can do it in our own way, with our own interpretation. However, there's nothing better than being able to stand on stage, play an original song and hear the cheers that follow. Knowing that you wrote a song that actually gets a good response means so much more to me as a musician than rehashing someone else's song.

13. Is Jelly Shot a hobby or a possible career?

Mubarak: It was always meant to be a hobby. As much as I love doing what we do, I can't see myself making a career out of this. Sure, I think about it and the thoughts alone make me want to give it a shot, but what we have right now is something great that's built on having fun. I really don't want to change that to the point where I could get burnt out easily.

Hashim: It's really just a hobby to me; I always say that if a hobby becomes your job, you'll grow to hate it. However if the chance comes at the right time in my life, I'd most probably go for it, even if just for the experience.

Khalid: I never considered playing instruments or music as a career. I did however start my own studio,

but even that’s a side job when compared to my future career. Putting pressure on yourself to play an instrument in order to afford a living can make you hate it. Music is my sanctuary and it's where I am in my spare time.

14. Where was your very first live performance?

And what was the experience like?

Hashim: Jelly Shot's first performance was at the GUST Toastmasters event in 2010. It was really stressful before we played, because we were working with a sound technician who really didn't seem to know what he was doing in terms of setting up the stage for a band. That being said, I think it turned out alright. It wasn't my first time performing, but seeing as it was Jelly Shot's first performance I was really nervous.

I think the main downside to that show was that we were playing to a whole bunch of adults of which a rare few were actually singing along to what we were playing, but most of them were sat there really not knowing what to make of us—some were smiling, some looked pretty uncomfortable but the fact that the other performers were sat right in the front row cheering and pushing us along really gave me the drive to perform to the best of my ability. It was a rush.

Mubarak: I wouldn't call it our finest moment but given the circumstances, I felt we did a good job regardless of what we had to work with. I feel that the very first show we did gave us an outlook on what to expect if we were to ever perform in similar conditions.

At least we would now know how to present ourselves and our music.

Khalid: With Jelly Shot, my first live performance was Kuwaitstock IV in the British Embassy. It was by far, the most exciting gig I'd ever played and it was indeed a new experience having to share the stage with

big bands from the UK, not to mention the amazing atmosphere and audience.

15. What is your dream performance space and destination?

Mubarak: I really don't know… This is one of those trick questions. I don't think I have a preference for where exactly I want to perform, but I surely wouldn't mind doing it in other regions, at least to get the word out that we're out there, doing what we do best. If I had to pick one, I'll be predictable and say Mississippi, which alone is hard to spell! This is mainly because of its Delta Blues history, my personal favorite form of the blues.

Khalid: I've never really had a specific place in mind. Not that it's impossible, but it would be really exciting if we, as a band, traveled abroad to play a show, I think I would really enjoy that experience.

Hashim: A dream destination to play for me would be Wembley Stadium in England, the sheer expanse of the audience gives me shivers whenever I see them, so to perform in front of them would be a dream come true. Other than that, I would love to perform on a rooftop here in Kuwait, nice and loud just to show Kuwait that we're here and we want to be heard.

16. What would you like to accomplish in the future?

Hashim: I've a long list of things I wish to accomplish with Jelly Shot and personally, however I think the biggest thing I want to accomplish would be to tour around the world; the US, Europe and Asia, going from town to town performing and making Jelly Shot bigger than we could imagine.

Mubarak: I think Hashim said it best. There really is a lot for a small band like us to accomplish and touring worldwide would do us wonders. I expect it to be tiring, eventually, but that's just me. Touring worldwide is definitely something that we would love to accomplish. Oh, and a personal goal of mine is to give our form of Blues-Rock a completely different sound and feeling than what one would expect from the blues. That is something we're working on at the time of writing.

17. Will there be any Jelly Shot performances in the near future?

Mubarak: As I write this, we have two scheduled events coming up. One at the second installment of "Blend Music Festival" on March 22nd, 2012, organized by Avant Garde Projects and one that's still in the development stages at the Australian College of Kuwait, sometime in early April we hope. More news to come on that so find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for all the updates and future developments and don't forget to download our EP! For more on Jelly Shot please log onto: www.facebook.com/jellyshotband www.twitter.com/JellyShotQ8 www.youtube.com/JellyShotQ8 EP Download: www.jellyshot.bandcamp.com

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MAX - VIVA LA SPRING The new Max Spring 2012 Collection is now in stores By bazaar staff

There is a season when the birds start singing and poets get inspired.

There is a time when the skies embrace blue, and f lowers bloom in full glory.

There is a season when wander lust strikes and you seek out the unfamiliar.

It's time to shake off the winter clothes and adorn fresh new styles as the sun shines and temperatures rise. Max brings you a palette of fresher colors consisting of warm corals, purples in the form of violet and orchid tones. Dresses are integral to the season and a key look in the collection is the ‘Prairie look’- consisting of washed out denims in soft mid-tones, pretty plaids and soft muted floral prints. The look consists of pretty shirt dresses, draped harem pants, and pretty embroidered tops and tunics.

Nautical collections come with a twist this Spring, and florals, stripes and polka dots are mixed with the classic nautical colors. Florals are also big and garments like skirts, dresses and blouses are swathed in flowers. Animal prints are still in vogue and a variety of spots and stripes in line to add to your style, so too are Checks and plaids and you’ll find them in store, all at great value, of course.

Winter’s buttoned up look moves away towards a more laid back unstructured vibe.

Two key trends are driving the season ahead- Global traveller and Comfort dressing.

These ranges fall neatly into the trends that reflect classic menswear with lots of relaxed elements shown through style, comfort and color.

The leisure camp features colorful shirts and relaxed chinos teamed with clean and precise checks and stripes. Linens are in, with newness being injected with fresh and bright colors. Formals take a new approach with premium fabrics in smart and contemporary fits. Banker shirts and slim-fit formal trousers add style to the range.

Denim featuring upgraded fabrics and stone washing with hints of dirt and stain marks 112

contribute to a smartly diluted high street look. Detail is key: right whiskers, fray marks, rips and washes give vintage denim the best value for its competitive price.

The Max Spring Collection also features tees, checked shirts, chinos and knit wear decorated with embroideries, studs, and distorted flock effects. A wide range of sport jackets and hooded shirts are also available at terrific value.

Kidswear at Max this season reflects lots of fun and spirit in the most smart and cool outfits. Sports graphics are key for boys with preppy, varsity-inspired tees throwing in lot of newness to the range. Max also offers Back-to-School styles, with vest tops, T-shirts and cropped jogging pants seen in tones of burnt yellow, cream and blues.

Racing, nautical and robot themes are also key this spring with items like hoodies, layered tees and smart denims.

For girls tropical prints on dresses accompanied by bright stripes is trending. Colorblocking is big this season with dresses being the main styles to carry off this detail.

The rock chic look is accentuated with fun animal prints, rock graphics with purple and fuchsia colors accompanied by bright yellows. Boho pieces with embroidery detailing, cotton skirts and gypsy tops bestow that fresh pretty feel on young princesses. Kidswear at Max this spring offers you the latest fashion at best prices.

Do drop by any of the Max showrooms located at Al Rai, Salmiya, Hawally, Fahaheel, Khaitan and The Avenues to experience the freshest and trendiest fashion in town! Visit www.maxfashionretail.com for more information.

BEAN THERE DONE THAT Beans, beans are good for your heart, the more you eat the more you…

(Excerpt from “Beans, Beans, the Musical Fruit”)

By Kevin Smith

When I was a child I believed that Heinz (of the 57 varieties fame) was an English company. I suppose that’s part of childhood – the innocence and logic of youth lets you believe everything is created around you. And why wouldn’t you? I was unaware of the growing globalization building around me and so believed the whole world to be English – not because of some national pride inherent in a lot of my countrymen, but simply because I was too young to comprehend the world beyond. And besides, there was a Heinz factory near my house so it seemed perfectly reasonable to me that that’s where they made Baked Beans – all the Baked Beans. So maybe I was a little naïve, and perhaps a little dense…

Why any child would care about where Heinz produced its wares may seem strange. Well, I was no ordinary child. Sadly, I don’t mean that I was a child prodigy of some sort, that I was extraordinary in some way, it was simply that I refused to eat anything other than beans on toast for a good portion of my childhood.

For those not familiar: you take one tin of Heinz Baked Beans – my mother, in later years, would often try and fob off generic varieties on me, telling me they were made in the same factory, but I was having none of it – and you heat them over a low heat for a minimum of twenty minutes. This is imperative to ensuring the sauce thickens and the beans soften. Serve over hot buttered toast. Simple. Delicious.

Now, I wasn’t what could be called a fussy eater.

I enjoyed many other foods and there were only a few foods I couldn’t truly stomach; it was simply that I preferred beans to any other food. There’s no such thing 114

as too much of a good thing when you’re a child.

I remember the shame on my mother’s face as she handed the can to the waiter and asked if it was possible to heat the contents and serve with toast. The disgust on Frenchman’s face was evident. This was how it went on childhood holidays - my poor mother loading the car with crates of Heinz Baked Beans in preparation for our drive over to the gastronomy capital of the world. This was a time that travelling to foreign countries meant encountering something, well foreign. This was before IKEA, before H&M, before Starbucks, before a world of homogenization that allows us to buy identical products from identical stores in vastly different countries hindsight allows me to view these as simpler times. So it was that my mother had to take Heinz Baked Beans with us and then force reluctant French, Italian, and waiters from wherever, to heat them up and serve them on buttery toast. I’m pretty sure I ate my fair share of “tainted food” during this period of my life.

In my twenties I lived in various European places from cultural metropolises to Alpine villages. Even though my dependency on Heinz Baked Beans had diminished and given way to a more varied palate, I still treated myself once in a while. First I had to hunt down expat haunts and pay more than double their worth, but in my later twenties they started appearing on the supermarket shelves and were much cheaper and easier to find. We now live in a world where upon my arrival in Kuwait I would have been shocked to not find that iconic can and it now saddens me that there isn’t a shop or product from the UK that isn’t readily available here – with obvious exceptions, of course…

Not to be too grandiose but I feel my relationship with beans on toast is a metaphor for the whole of humankind. I said not too grandiose. I loved beans on toast as a child. Half a can of Baked Beans and a couple of slices of toast made me happy, I was content with that.

But I loved beans so much that as I grew up I wanted to include them in all my meals. This meant that during my early teens I replaced the vegetables in a Sunday roast with Heinz Baked Beans because they tasted better with chicken and potatoes than broccoli. When my mum made chili-con-carne I insisted she add a tin of Heinz Baked Beans, ditto for spaghetti Bolognese, baked potatoes were loaded with Baked Beans, toasted sandwiches were filled with Baked Beans. My mum made her own pizza dough so Tuesday was ‘choose your own topping’ pizza day–Baked Beans on pizza! In my later teens, returning home starving after being out with my friends and looking for munchies, I worked on my beans on toast recipe. I upped it to a whole can of Heinz Baked Beans and four slices of toast. I added cheese (sublime by the way), cooked meats, frankfurters, barbecue sauce, brown sauce, ketchup; I served it with mayonnaise, with cheese grated on top, with dollops of cream cheese. I added everything until it barely resembled the meal that I had so loved as a child. In the process I forgot what I loved about the meal in the first place - the simplicity of Baked Beans on buttery toast. I’d ruined it for myself. I could no longer enjoy it without all the bells and whistles.

See, metaphor for humankind. And you thought this article was going to be about Heinz Baked Beans.

A few years ago I stopped eating beans on toast all together, not being able to stomach the concoction I had created anymore nor being able to appreciate the basic eponymous recipe, either. I didn’t eat the meal for maybe a year, I suppose you could call it a “cleanse”.

When I finally revisited it I returned to the basics and I treat myself about once a month now, and what a joy it is. I keep it simple; one can of Heinz Baked Beans shared with my wife, two slices of whole-wheat toast, buttered.

Simple.

Delicious.

It’s not about the food anymore. It probably never was. I’ve moved on and broadened my horizon of cuisines. It’s like anything, if we don’t move on then we are living in the past and trying to live a life that doesn’t exist anymore. Remember it fondly and move on. It’s about the memories it invokes, the feeling I get when I see that can. I always keep a couple of cans of Heinz Baked Beans in my cupboard and that makes me feel at home – as though my mum could walk out of the kitchen at any moment and serve me up a plate of beans on toast just the way I like it.

Heinz Baked Beans are available EVERYWHERE, as is bread and butter.

‫بديكري ال�سمك‬ ‫بقلم‪Strawberry Girl :‬‬

‫لم يعد عليك أن تسافري إلى دو ل شرق آسيا أو تركيا‬ ‫لتنعمي بمعالجة القدم الرائعة باألسماك‪ ،‬حيث أنه يوجد اآلن‬ ‫سبا في الكويت يوفر هذا العالج‪ .‬إنه (‪ )Fish Nail Spa‬فيش‬ ‫نيل سبا موجود في الجابرية‪ .‬هذا العالج يمنح االسترخاء للقدم‬ ‫و تقشير الجلد الميت‪ ،‬كما أنه يحسن الدورة الدموية و يخلص‬ ‫من اإلجهاد و التوتر‪.‬‬ ‫إن اإلحساس األول عند وضع القدمين بالحوض و‬ ‫عشرات األسماء الصغيرة تلتصق بقدميك هو الشعور‬ ‫بالدغدغة‪ .‬بعدها تشعرين باالهتزاز كما لو أن قدميك‬ ‫كانت في جهاز المساج‪ ،‬و يمكن أيضا أن تشعر بلسعة‬ ‫كهربائية بسيطة‪ .‬لكن بشكل عام الشعور رائع‪ ،‬و هي‬ ‫تجربة ال يجب تفويتها‪.‬‬ ‫و بعد ‪ 15‬دقيقة من معالجة السمك للقدم فإن المفعول‬ ‫المنعش و المريح يبقى على القدمين لساعات‪ .‬كما أنه يمنح‬ ‫الشعور باالسترخاء من التوتر و هو شبيه بتدليك االسترخاء‪.‬‬ ‫كما أن القدم تصبح ناعمة جدا و طرية‪.‬‬ ‫األسماك الصغيرة التي تقوم بهذا العمل الرائع تسمى‬

‫سمكة الغارا روفا و موطنها األصلي في بحيرات من الينابيع‬ ‫الحارة في تركيا‪ .‬و تحب هذه األسماك أن تنظف الجلد‬ ‫بهجومها على المناطق الخشنة و القاسية و تترك الجلد‬ ‫السليم لينمو‪ .‬و تعلق نادية البقصمي‪ ،‬صاحبة الفيش نيل‬ ‫سبا قائلة‪" :‬ليس لهذه األسماك أي أسنان و لذلك لن تأذيك‪،‬‬ ‫بل تعمل مثل آلة شفط‪ .‬كما أنه تم استخدام هذه األسماك‬ ‫في عالج الصدفية و اإلكزيما في تركيا عندما تم اكتشافها‬ ‫تقريبا في العام ‪ .1800‬و بعدها في الخمسينات من القرن‬ ‫الماضي عندما تم اكتشاف منافع هذه السمكة تم استعمالها‬ ‫في المنتجعات‪ .‬و قرابة العام ‪ 2006‬تم استخدامها في دول‬ ‫شرق أسيا و ثم في الواليات المتحدة‪ .‬و في بريطانيا افتتح‬ ‫أول منتجع يحوي هذه السمكة في العام ‪".2008‬‬ ‫لقد أتت البقصمي بفكرة إنشاء هذا السبا و الصالون‬ ‫بعد أن جربت هذا العالج مع عائلتها في سلطنة عمان‪ ،‬حيث‬ ‫كانت في رحلة بالسفينة في دول الخليج و توقفت في‬ ‫عمان‪ .‬هناك رأت الدكتور فيش في أحد المجمعات التجارية‪.‬‬ ‫و قد انبهر زوجها باإلحساس المخملي على قدميه بعد‬

‫تجربة العالج‪ .‬و قد أحبت هي أيضا هذه التجربة و أرادت‬ ‫نقلها للكويت‪.‬‬ ‫و تأكد البقصمي أن العالج بسمك الغارا روفا آمن تماما‬ ‫و تشرح قائلة‪" :‬األحواض صحية‪ ،‬حيث أن التعقيم يقتل‬ ‫الفيروسات و البكتيريا في الماء‪ .‬كما أننا نبدل الماء في‬ ‫كل حوض يوميا بعد أن يتم إطعام األسماك‪ .‬و تم تجهيز‬ ‫األحواض بفالتر بيولوجية تتكون من خمس طبقات‪ .‬و‬ ‫ليس هناك أي موانع صحية الستعمال هذا العالج و ال أي‬ ‫حد للعمر‪".‬‬ ‫هذه السمكة حساسة جدا‪ ،‬و لذلك يمكن أن تموت‬ ‫بسهولة من بعض المواد الكيميائية‪ ،‬و لهذا السبب يتم‬ ‫غسل قدمي الزبونة بالماء و الملح قبل إنزال قدميها في‬ ‫حوض السمك‪ .‬ليس هناك أي مشكلة إن كانت الزبونة تضع‬ ‫طالء األظافر‪ ،‬لكن يجب أن ال يكون هناك كريم أو عطر‬ ‫على الجلد و الذي يمكن أن يؤثر بشكل سيئ على السمك‪.‬‬ ‫أيضا مستوى حمض ال ‪ PH‬طبيعي في الحوض و كذلك يتم‬ ‫تعيير درجة الحرارة على ‪ 30‬درجة مئوية تقريبا‪.‬‬ ‫و بما أن سمكة الغارا روفا رقيقة و حساسة لذلك يجب‬ ‫التعامل معها بحذر‪ .‬و تضيف البقصمي‪" :‬يجب أن يتم نقل‬ ‫السمكة بسرعة و إال تسبب ذلك في موتها‪ .‬فمثال عندما‬ ‫شاركنا بفعالية لمدة ‪ 3‬أيام في مجمع ال ‪ ،360‬أضعنا الكثير‬ ‫من السمك أثناء نقلهم للمجمع‪ .‬و كذلك عند افتتاحنا للسبا‬ ‫في شهر يوليو ‪ 2011‬فقد نفقت الكثير من األسماك حيث أن‬ ‫بعضها انحشر في الفالتر و أخرى قفزت من الحوض‪ .‬و نحن‬ ‫نستورد هذه األسماك بكمية ‪ 1000‬سمكة على األقل‪ ،‬و ذلك‬ ‫كل ‪ 45‬يوم تقريبا‪ .‬كما أننا نواجه مشاكل إذا انقطع التيار‬ ‫الكهربائي‪ ،‬حيث أن ذلك قد يسبب الوفاة للسمك‪ ،‬و هذا ما‬ ‫حدث مرة و أضعنا حوض كامل من السمك‪".‬‬ ‫و يوجد في الفيش نيل سبا ستة أحواض تحتوي على‬ ‫سمك الغارا روفا‪ ،‬و كل حوض يحتوي على ‪250 – 200‬‬ ‫سمكة تقريبا‪ .‬و تعيش السمكة الكبيرة منها قرابة الشهر‪،‬‬ ‫بينما تعيش الصغيرة بين ‪ -3 2‬أشهر‪ .‬و لكي ال تمل الزبونة‪،‬‬ ‫فإن السبا يحتوي على خدمات عديدة إضافية مثل البديكير و‬ ‫مانيكير‪ ،‬و األظافر الصناعية‪ ،‬و المساج أو التدليك‪ ،‬باإلضافة‬ ‫إلى العناية بالشعر‪ ،‬و التسمير‪ ،‬و الشمع‪ .‬و لديهم أيضا‬ ‫إمكانية شراء كوبون الهدايا أو اختيار باقة برامج‪.‬‬ ‫‪116‬‬

SILENT FAREWELL

By Abigail Mathias

The bench at her favorite park was vacant. Sam was thrilled. She remained puzzled why everyone preferred to be indoors, especially on gloriously sunny days such as this one. It was only after she lost her leg that she remembered what it used to feel like to be out in fresh air. Today seemed like a perfect day to die.

She didn’t feel old but she was slowly forgetting the smell of the earth, what the rain felt like, what running through the grass was like and chasing butterflies as if there were nothing more important in the world. Nothing was only a few months ago.

Sam now shuddered at the sound of cars zipping past – a stark reminder of what brought her so close 118

to death. A reckless driver who drove on the footpath instead of the road and zipped by before stopping to see the damage caused. As Sam lay there bleeding helplessly, she remembered her mother’s advice. Her mother always said Sam needed to speed up. She was not as fast as everyone else. Perhaps because she was always in her own world, stopping to smell the flowers and appreciate nature.

As Nick, carried her over to their favourite bench, Sam had only one wish, that they stay there forever.

It wasn’t a very big thing to ask. She read the doctor’s face a few days ago. Sam knew she didn’t have much time, but a few days is a lifetime for a Dalmatian.

Sam was grateful that Nick realized how much

the park meant to them both. Perhaps he was doing this for himself, too. Capturing a memory of their times in the park, one last time. As they sat there in silence, Sam felt a drop of rain and was glad she got to experience that, again. When she looked up in anticipation of more rain, she realized it wasn’t rain at all; those were Nick’s tears falling on her. She struggled to meet his face, as if to explain that she too understood his sorrow. She understood that he was trying to say goodbye in his own way. They watched the sun paint a glorious gamut of colors as it set that day. Sam felt grateful for Nick and for the bench that never allowed her to forget how much she had been loved.

NOODLE FACTORY Contemporary far-eastern cuisine By bazaar staff

Noodle Factory first rolled up its shutters back in 2007 just as The Avenues was opening its doors to the shoppers of Kuwait. People have flocked to the mall ever since and Noodle Factory has been a mainstay of the many, many, restaurants on offer at The Avenues. Serving a mixture of Pan Asian food with influences from China, Thailand, Indonesia and Malay, they have been pulling in customers from the beginning against stiff competition by using fresh, high quality ingredients to create flavour packed dishes in a mixture of traditional, modern and fusion styles.

The food is backed up by a great corner location on the first floor in Phase 1. They offer a contemporary, lively space which hints at, rather than relies on, its eastern influences, where you can watch the food being prepared in an open kitchen. Then they have that unique ordering system; customers fill out their 120

order on the menu and hand it to the staff, who are on hand to explain the ingredients or cooking methods used if you have any queries.

You may have noticed though that they haven’t rested on the laurels of their success. Each year they shake things up and overhaul their menu. They retire some items, replace or update others, and add completely new dishes. A lot of this is based on customer feedback, what they see as popular and where they think they can improve. This can be seen in them recognising the popularity of their sole broth, Chicken and Prawn Wonton Noodle Soup, and then adding three new broth noodles to the menu to offer more diversity under this part of the menu.

Noodle Factory recently added many new items to their menu from appetizers, soups and salads, to dim sum, noodle alternatives and desserts. They added a couple of new drinks in the form of the Green Dragon,

a mixture of passion fruit, lemon, blue curacao and topped with 7 Up and the aptly named Avenues, which is similar but replaces the blue curacao with ginger ale, making it a little less sweet. As for the new food additions, the Red Curried Seafood Wonton was not only extremely tasty, but also had a good amount of filling (something lacking in most wontons) and the Five Spice Salt and Pepper Squid was light, airy and crisp with the five spice delivering a pleasant flavour kick. Other new appetizers are Edamame served with either sea salt or chili bean sauce and Wasabi Prawn or Wasabi Tofu and Mushroom. A couple of new dim sum dishes have also been added, Seafood Sui Mai with Fried Scallops is a soft filling paired with the crunch of fried scallop. The Steamed Crystal Prawn Dumpling is both a pleasure for the taste buds, and the eyes due to the translucent skin. On the salad front, they’ve added Crispy Duck, Pomegranate and Watermelon Salad with

light and spicy. The Singaporean Seafood Laksa with Mussels, Prawns and Red Mullet, served in a Coconut Broth is a mind-boggling medley of ingredients and flavours that will leave you more than satisfied. They’ve added Yaki Soba with Peking Duck and Curry Oil to the wok fried noodles selection and a delicious Sweet Chili Eggplant joins the vegetable/side dishes line up. For those looking for noodle alternatives, Red Curry with prawns or chicken is tasty served with steamed rice, as are the Wok Fried Prawns in XO sauce. Saving the best for last, the Stir-Fried Beef Short Ribs in Chili, Garlic and Ginger Sauce is outstanding. The beef falls off the bones and subsequently melts in your mouth.

Topping it all off were a couple of new desserts, a Passion Fruit Brulee with Mango Sorbet that gave that deep, satisfying crack as you break through the caramelised sugar. The Chilled Coconut Delight was equally as indulgent but both were light and fresh tasting. It features a coconut cornucopia of coconut strips, coconut jelly, coconut cream, and is topped with a panand leaf ice cream, that even though you may never have heard of before you visit Noodle Factory, you won’t be forgetting in a hurry after you leave.

All the new dishes are welcome additions to an already great menu at Noodle Factory. They are open for lunch and dinner and also take reservations and cater for birthday celebrations.

Roasted Cashew Nuts. The varying textures and tastes make this salad complex yet subtle, and light enough to be eaten for lunch too.

Then there are the aforementioned broth noodles.

If you’re not familiar with broth noodles, they are like meals disguised as soups. Korean Kimchee with Grilled Beef and Fresh Lime is pungent and flavourful while the Thai Hot & Sour Noodle Soup with Prawns is

Noodle Factory is located on the first floor in Phase 1 of The Avenues. For reservations or more information call 2495 4751 or email: nfavenues.kwt@alshaya.com.

121

bazaar psych

By Dr. Juliet and Dr. Nisrine

Do you have questions for a psychologist? Are you afraid or embarrassed to see one?

Well, we may have the answers you need! Now you can ask Dr. Juliet and Dr. Nisrine for psychological and social advice for free!

Q. Can people become alcoholics even if they drink occasionally, like every once in a while?

A. Drinking alcohol isn’t only about the amount you drink. It is very important to realize why one is drinking, how often, and with whom.

Individuals can become alcoholics if they come to enjoy the feeling of being under the influence and become dependent on it to alleviate certain emotional distress. Alcoholics also drink and do not know when to stop. These individuals lose control over their alcohol consumption and the alcohol comes to control them. Because of all of this, alcoholism is a psychological disorder that can ruin individuals’ lives. People who are alcoholics often lose their relationships with their family, become inconsistent at their jobs and become isolated from the society. They ignore their responsibilities just to satisfy an urge to drink. It is also important to note that alcohol is a depressant and long-term drinking can cause depression and anxiety. Anyone who feels that they have lost control of their life and see increased psychological symptoms should seek professional help as soon possible.

Q. If many people in my family died and I did not feel sadness or regret and I didn’t cry, is that normal? I had three of my grandparents die, as well as my favorite aunt, but I felt nothing. Am I different or is everyone like this?

A. People grieve in their own way. However, it seems that you have not allowed yourself to process the loss of loved ones and be in touch with your feelings regarding them. Excessive losses can make us numb to our feelings and to protect ourselves, we distant our feelings in fear of losing control over those feelings. It is possible that the family saw you as the strong person who can handle it all and in the process of giving comfort and care to everyone, you forgot to grieve yourself. Also remember that 122

Dr. Nisrine

Dr. Juliet

dealing with death is a learned behavior, so maybe when growing up you saw women holding the family together during crisis and you are modeling similar behavior. You need to allow yourself to be sad and reassure yourself that nothing will happen that is out of your control. Don’t be afraid of your emotions.

good people away from your life. We suggest you sort out the reasons behind your trust issues with a qualified psychologist so you can live a satisfying and happy life. Remember, trust is the core of everything we do and without it, the possibility of connecting to anything and anyone is limited.

Q. How can I get rid of my food addiction?

A. Being addicted to food is almost like any other addiction, in that it is used as a way to relieve stress, escape, and indulge oneself. To get rid of food addiction, you need to understand how food has become a substitute for your emotional relief.

Sometimes, we learn this mechanism as children; when we got upset and needed relief, food was the answer, or we saw our parents or older siblings using food to medicate themselves from problems or life stressors. Food is an easy thing for us to use as a pain reliever; its fast, tastes good, and is available and legal, so why not? The problem is not with food, but the reason behind it. Just like anything, if we use it for other reasons than what it was meant for, it can become an addiction. Using something as a substitute for expressing our feelings or avoiding confrontation, and /or painful experiences is not a healthy way of dealing with things and ultimately, you will suffer the consequences. Please seek help soon to understand the connection between your eating and emotions. Your relationship with food needs to explore your past and how it's connected to your present and your way of coping.

Q. Is it okay to hate the world because everyone seems to be doing bad things all around you, such as drugs, alcohol, rape, murder, stealing, etc?

A. It seems that you are angry about what the world has turned into. However, it is important to understand that just like there is evil out there, there is also a lot of good. Don’t allow external events to turn you into a pessimist but rather allow yourself to make a balance between the good and evil out there. If you only see the bad in the world, this will make you afraid of your surroundings and it can cause you to become depressed. We agree that bad things have increased a little more in the past years but nevertheless, we should not make these bad things the focus of our lives if we want to live a healthier and fuller life. Remember, if you choose to hate, then you will be hated and ultimately, you will live miserable for the rest of your life, so what is the advantage of hating?

Q. How can I resolve my trust issues?

A. Trust issues stem from various experiences, including early attachment problems, betrayal from loved ones, etc. It is important for you to gain insight into the roots of these trust issues, process and resolve them, and then build healthy relationships.

Sometimes we allow bad experiences from our past to cloud our potentially positive future experiences, and this keeps good people from coming into our lives.

If you have trust issues, it's important to understand the reason behind them so you don't push potentially

For psychological advice, send your questions to dr.jdinkha@kaizen-kw.com. Please note that not all questions can be published. Dr. Juliet and Dr. Nisrine are bilingual and bicultural expert psychologists on various personal and social issues.

Visit www.kaizen-ke.com. or follow them on www.facebook.com/kaizen2q8.

bazaar goes to cinema The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in February

MERCENARIES Genre: Action Cast: Robert Fucilla, Billy Zane and Kirsty Mitchell Synopsis: Andy Marlow is an ex-British S.A.S serviceman turned mercenary who is working covertly at an observation post in the Balkans after a military coup has resulted in the assassination of the Serbian Prime Minister. During the unrest, Olodan’s army raided the U.S. Embassy and has taken the U.S Ambassador and his aide captives. The decision is taken to send in Mercenaries to carry out the top secret rescue. US Military personnel posing as United Nations peacekeepers are playing a support role, but cannot take part in active operations. Covertly, Andy and his team infiltrate Olodan’s headquarters, taking him captive and releasing the Ambassador and his aide. However the rescue is far from over.

SAFE Genre: Drama Cast: Jason Statham, Catherine Chan Synopsis: A second-rate cage fighter on the mixed martial arts circuit, Luke Wright lives a numbing life of routine beatings and chump change...until the day he blows a rigged fight. Wanting to make an example of him, the Russian Mafia murders his family and banishes him from his life forever, leaving Luke to wander the streets of New York destitute, haunted by guilt, and tormented by the knowledge that he will always be watched, and anyone he develops a relationship with will also be killed.

BATTLESHIP Genre: Action & Adventure, Science Fiction & Fantasy Cast: Alexander Skarsgård, Brooklyn Decker and Liam Neeson Synopsis: Peter Berg produces and directs Battleship, an epic-scaled action-adventure that unfolds across the seas,

in the skies and over land as our planet fights for survival against a superior force. Inspired by Hasbro's classic naval combat game, Battleship stars Taylor Kitsch as Lt. Alex Hopper, a Naval officer assigned to the USS John Paul Jones; Brooklyn Decker as Sam Shane, a physical therapist and Hopper's fiancée; Alexander Skarsgård as Hopper's older brother, Stone, Commanding Officer of the USS Sampson; Rihanna as Petty Officer Raikes, Hopper's crewmate and a weapons specialist on the USS John Paul Jones; and international superstar Liam Neeson as Hopper and Stone's superior (and Sam's father), Admiral Shane.

THE DECOY BRIDE Genre: Drama, Romance, Art House & International, Comedy Cast: Kelly Macdonald, David Tennant and Alice Eve Synopsis: When the wedding of internationally famous film star Lara Tyler (Alice Eve) to tweedy English author James Arber (David Tennant) is sabotaged by a paparazzo, they decide to relocate the event to the one place where the world's press won't find them: the sleepy Island of Hegg, as featured in James' bestselling novel The Ornithologists Wife. However, dilapidated buildings and greedy islanders are the least of the problems that the wedding party and their Hollywood entourage have to deal with, as Marco (Federico Castelluccio) the ingenious paparazzo tracks them down in his mission to photograph the celebrity wedding of the year.

TITANIC (3D) RE-RELEASE Genre: Drama, Romance, Classics Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet and Billy Zane Synopsis: Titanic is a 1997 American epic romance and disaster film directed, written, co-produced, and co-edited by James

Cameron. A fictionalized account of the sinking of the RMS Titanic, it stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson, Kate Winslet as Rose DeWitt Bukater and Billy Zane as Rose’s fiancé, Cal Hockley, Jack and Rose are members of different social classes who fall in love aboard the ship during its ill-fated maiden voyage. Cameron’s inspiration for the film was predicated on his fascination with shipwrecks; he wanted to convey the emotional message of the tragedy and felt that a love story interspersed with the human loss would be essential to achieving this production on the film began in 1995, when Cameron shot footage of the actual Titanic wreck. The modern scenes were shot on board the Akademik Mstislav Keldys, which Cameron had used as a base when filming the wreck.

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For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest you, log on to www.cinescape.com.kw

bazaar around town TED BAKER SPRING/SUMMER 2012 The Great Exhibitionist and his private views Not one to blend into the background, Ted’s collections become literal works of art this season.

Rich prints, sharp silhouettes, a palette of paint-box brights and bold brushstrokes in the form of textural and tonal highlights are at the very heart of Spring/Summer 2012. Add to that Ted’s unwavering attention to detail and you have a collection that’s sure to be a real talking point and worthy of a walking exhibit.

Womenswear celebrates the female form with defined waists, full skirts and cut away detailing.

Flower power reigns supreme with English roses, peonies and cherry blossom in full bloom on feminine 50s dress shapes. The Rosebug print featuring bright roses, bugs and butterflies is key and appears on everything from cropped jackets to shorts and from peep-toe heels to clutches.

The floral theme continues with laser cut appliqué and intricate floral cutwork adding interest to dresses, tops and flirty shorts.

Accessorise with towering cork wedges, wooden flatforms, oversized or mini box clutches in raffia and a stack of bangles.

In a way, Ted’s menswear collection is like a self-portrait, capturing all the elements of his personality. Larger than life, it’s bursting with vivid colour and detail, offering a bright and breezy take on riviera dressing. Chinos in slim and classic fits come in a rainbow of brights and earthy shades such as burnt orange, forest green and rustic red with contrast turn up detailing.

Pastel and check chino shorts are worn with nautical stripe tees and polos with slim collars.

Prints come through in the form of subtle polka dots and paisley trims on shirts and polos. Layer up with ribbed and fine weave summer knits.

The collection is finished with canvas duffle bags and shoppers, paisley and spotty neckerchiefs and bright suede deck shoes or brogues.

Ted’s new S/S12 collections’ exceptional quality and distinctive detailing are masterpieces of both style and substance…and set to be a sensation worldwide. Because after all, Ted’s always been the Great Exhibitionist.

MOTHERCARE KUWAIT JUST GOT BIGGER AND BETTER New website brings brand to online shoppers Mothercare knows that mums and dads – and new parents in particular – are always pressed for time. That’s why it’s delighted to announce the launch of www.mothercare.com – a new online shopping site that lets customers in Kuwait shop 24 hours a day, from the comfort of their own home.

The site also has two unique new features which are a first for online shoppers in Kuwait. The first lets customer set up their delivery address by pinpointing their exact delivery address on a Google map. The resulting geo-code location is accurate to within 3 metres, which can be used to help ensure greater accuracy of home deliveries. Secondly, customers have the greater convenience of being able to pay for their orders on delivery, either by cash or card.

THE NORTH FACE SPRING OUTDOOR COLLECTION The North Face is known to offer a variety of the best collection of outdoor apparel and equipment with outstanding features. For nearly 30 years, The North Face has been the brand of choice for numerous excursions. The Spring Outdoor collection exceeds expectations in terms of quality, comfort and distinctiveness. For outdoor enthusiasts, as tested by professional athletes, the Spring 2012 Outdoor Collection offers some of the most technically advanced products on the market. This season’s products are designed to endure the challenges of expeditions, whilst also maximizing the enjoyment of local hikes.

Comprising the Summit Series, Hiking and Climbing product lines, the Spring 2012 Outdoor Collection offers best-in-class apparel and equipment for those exploring the planet on two feet.

The North Face Outdoor collection available at: Carbon Fiber in the Avenues Mall, Carbon Fiber Kuwait International airport and Explorers Base Al -Tilal Mall Shuwaikh.

Follow them on twitter @TheNorthFaceKWT and Like them on Facebook tnfkuwait.

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CENTREPOINT UNVEILS ITS SPRING SUMMER 2012 COLLECTION Centrepoint, the popular shopping destination in Kuwait celebrates Spring Summer this year with a wonderful collection of products across Juniors, Splash, Shoe Mart and Lifestyle. Be it fashion clothing, shoes or accessories, kidswear or toys, or products that you’ll love to adorn your home with; Centrepoint has it all!

The new Spring Summer collection from Juniors seems to exude energy. The collection comprises cotton yarn dyed shirts, melange inserts, denim bottoms, cotton spandex hoodies, and convertible capris.

Taking cues from the best of catwalks, the Splash collection explores the choicest of trends coupled with the choicest of shape that are classic yet bold and edgy, vivid prints, colors and designs. Men wear the same trend in materials like linen or silk, smooth or printed cotton in crumpled finishes with over-dyed effects and textured knit.

Shoe Mart’s Spring Summer ’12 collection brings an assortment of styles for all who are inspired by the on screen trend setters, symbolizing science fiction, urban fixtures and holiday inspired trends.

Centrepoint once again has it all this season to surprise you and yet fulfill all your shopping needs! So stop by at any of our stores located at Al Rai, Hawally, Salmiya, Kuwait City, Fahaheel, Fintas and Jahra.

G-STAR RAW by MARC NEWSON Since 2003, G-Star has collaborated with acclaimed industrial designer Marc Newson on a range of unique, luxury street-wear collections that fuses high-tech materials with advanced industrial design techniques.

The Spring/Summer 2012 collection features three distinct product lines for men. The first uses Marc’s rubberized ‘dot’ logo from his original G-Star Elwood design on a range of high-tech leisure-wear; while the second part of the collection incorporates styling influences from 1950s military wear and applies modern materials and digital camouflage prints, including the Army Jacket.

The third range within the G-Star by Marc Newson collection presents two Japanese selvedge denims and a selection of ‘Walking Star’ logo T’s, like the Walking Star Outline Sweat.

G-Star RAW. Just the Product.

GERARD DAREL SPRING-SUMMERCOLLECTION 2012 Repetto ushers the summer with a riot of colors with Gerard Darel!

‘Pop style’ mixes with vintage fresh pastels in an upbeat collection inspired from the iconography of American and French musical masterpieces of the 50s and 60s. From ‘Les Demoiselles de Rochefort’ to‘An American in Paris’, the collection is just as vibrant as the classics.

The iconic Bridget Bardot ballerinas and dance inspired wedges, pumps and oxfords are infused with saturated colors, new fabrics, flocked leopard print, fluorescent and pixels. The color palette is enriched with new entries: Wild Amazon green, Galois blue, Light yellow Mayo, Sorbeta gourmet pink and neutral Biscuit and Milk. And exciting textures like sparkling distressed goatskin, salamander embossed leather, metallic crystal goatskin suede and vintage silk are introduced.

A luscious range of ladies shoes is offered this season to complement each and every style at Gerard Darel in The Avenues Mall – 2259 7500 Ext. 7060.

FASHCODE SPRING/SUMMER 2012 COLLECTION Fashcode has never been sweeter! This summer brighten up your wardrobe with FASHCODE’s candylicious summer collection to compliment your every occasion. Refresh your gloomy winter closet and say hello to the luscious lollipop colors guaranteed to make you smile. The collection will transform your wardrobe into a closet, filled with vibrant candy colored outfits for all occasions, putting out some wonderful heaven inspired designs, soft and feminine dresses, and blouses, to help satisfy your sweet tooth for the latest fashion. So go ahead and spoil yourself, complete your summer outfit with Dolce Vita shoes, our Aila bags and Vanina necklaces to match and complete your outfits, and you’ll be sure to stand out in the crowd. Inspired by the colors of summer, our new collection is girly and flirtatious filled with vibrant candy coated colors with items to bring out your feminine side. Shopping at FASHCODE can truly be described as sweet as being in a candy store.

Fashcode is located in The Avenues.

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big boys toys

ALEGNA WOODEN BATHTUBS Add a touch of natural elegance to your washroom with Alegna Wooden Bathtubs ($TBA). Thanks to the company's experience building yachts, the tubs feature smooth, seamless, organic lines that are well protected thanks to a highly water-resistant varnish that coats the surface, guaranteeing that they'll provide optimal service for years to come. A number of designs and wood choices are available, and if those suit you, they'll custom build a special tub out of basically any wood you choose.

www.alegna.ch

HOT TUB BOAT Every once in a while, we run across a product that's more or less self-explanatory. Such is the case with the Hot Tub Boat ($TBA). Capable of holding six people on the water or eight at the dock, this buoyant soaking tub is powered by an electric motor that pushes you along at a leisurely pace of five-or-so knots, so as to not splash around the water inside — that's your job, after all.

www.hottubboats.com

HUMN WALLET As our long time readers know, we're big fans of front pocket wallets, which is why you haven't seen many RFID-blocking cash carriers featured here — they're generally just too damn big, never mind any potential style flaws. The HuMn Wallet ($50 and up) solves this problem by blocking RFID signals while maintaining an incredibly thin — think two slices of aluminum joined by an elastic band profile. Available in several different colors, or in twill carbon fiber for those seeking a more upscale look.

www.kickstarter.com

JEEP ACTION CAMPER Jeeps may make great off-road vehicles, but for towing things? Not so great. So instead of trying to pull an Airstream behind your Wrangler, why not combine the two and drive the Jeep Action Camper roughly $54,000) Designed for two-person expeditions and built on the Wrangler Unlimited, the Action Camper offers a pop-up roof, a fiberglass body, a king-size bed, plenty of storage, a mini-kitchen with three-burner stove and refrigerator, a toilet with optional kitchen sink shower, and a fold-up dining area. Basically everything you need, packed in to one rugged, relatively small package.

www.actioncamper.com

TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 STEALTH WATCH The pitch-black Tag Heuer Formula 1 Stealth Watch ($TBA) is just the wristwear needed for those who like to keep it dark. The 42mm-sized watch features a black face, black lume, black-gold hour markers, and a stainless steel case with an all-black titanium-carbide coating. The only hint of color comes from the redtipped chronograph hand.

www.tagheuer.com

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BUT I DON’T WANNA GET MARRIED...

Yet!

By Lily K

When an Arab girl hits a certain age, there becomes increasing pressure on her to get married and start a family. There is always a constant fear that the girl will become an ‘old maid’ and no one will ever want to marry her (insert dramatic horror movie music here).

Recently I have been feeling the pressure to wed.

The pressure does not come in direct conversations with people, it’s more veiled and indirect. People begin by asking your age, then the follow up question is ‘Are you married?’ if the answer is no, there is a sad almost sympathetic look on people’s faces as in to say: ‘Oh you poor thing, you are such a loser.’ This look is usually followed by a patronizing comment like ‘Don’t worry, it will happen for you eventually. You just need to stop being picky.’

That piece of advice is more annoying and condescending then the original ‘pity face’. Why does everyone assume that because I’m a girl I am in desperate need to get married? Why is there a supposition that my life is not complete or that I am very depressed because I am single? Is it hard to believe that I am happy with my life at the moment, or that I have bigger plans for my near future than just finding myself a husband and settling down? Is it so hard to believe that a girl is thinking about her career and not her domestic life?

I don’t want to get married yet, I want to live.

I want to travel the world, I want to further my education and I want to enjoy being single for a while. All these things are still possible when married, but they become more challenging as there is the home, responsibilities and expectations, as well as another person to take into consideration.

Do people ask guys the same sequence of questions and give them the same type of advice?

I can’t image anyone looking at a single guy with a look of empathy that he is still single or advising him to ‘Hurry up and get married or no one will marry you after a certain age’. No, guys are asked about their education, careers and future work plans and are encouraged to take their time and not get married too young.

The oldwives’ tale that girls should have children as soon as possible does not apply anymore. Thanks to the advancements in medicine, women have been having kids in their late thirties, and even forties, without any complications. Girls have been reaching higher levels of education and investing in their careers. And anyway, a good wife and mother is not one that wonders what could have been, rather it’s one that has lived, experienced and accomplished things for herself.

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HOW TAYLOR KITSCH BECAME 'JOHN CARTER'

By Andrea Mandell

Man is about to make an epic landing on Mars.

But to get there, Taylor Kitsch, 30, had to convince a host of Hollywood types that he was the right guy to take on John Carter, a space-traveling big-budget movie born 100 years ago in a popular series of science-fiction novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

Kitsch calls the audition process "very intense" to nab the role of the Civil War veteran who is accidentally transported to a planet known as Barsoom (Mars) in the 3-D live action film. Once there, Carter encounters green creatures called Thark; gigantic, ferocious white apes; and a group of combative, red-tattooed humanlike inhabitants who are engaged in their own battle to the death. (Not to mention Dejah, a beautiful, defiant princess played by Lynn Collins.)

Confused? So was the Canadian-born Kitsch, who grew to fame playing a football player in the cult hit television series Friday Night Lights and honed his action chops playing Remy LeBeau in X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

"I came out of that first meeting and (went) straight to the bookstore," says Kitsch, who wasn't familiar with the classic sci-fi series.

Director Andrew Stanton had hoped for years to bring the series to the silver screen, and he had eyed Kitsch for the role since Friday Night Lights premiered in 2004. "But I would always give the caveat 'but he's probably too young,' " says Stanton, who makes his debut directing a live action film with John Carter.

But, "because I couldn't stop putting him on the short list," Stanton turned to IMDB, where he was ultimately swayed when he found out that Harrison Ford and Sean Connery were each about 30 years old when they took on Star Wars and Bond flick Dr. No, respectively.

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Kitsch was 28 when cameras for John Carter's intense seven-month shoot began to roll. The new leading man prepped hard, building a brawnier, 3-D-worthy physique, cramming with Civil War historians and diagramming (via chalkboard) the hierarchy of the character-crowded Barsoom.

"He's not a superhero to me," says Kitsch, despite Carter's burden of ultimately saving the foreign world.

"That's a huge part of the relatability factor of it. He's just a guy, a Civil War vet that's lost everything, his family, his cause, and he gets put into these insane circumstances, and gets another chance to find that purpose within himself."

Winking humor also is tucked into the packed plot, thanks in part to Stanton, who moves into live action after winning Oscars for helming Wall-E and Finding Nemo. (See: Woola, a rather adorable, lizard-like dog Carter adopts in the new world.)

But becoming a leading action star meant Kitsch had to prepare. Hard.

For 11 months, Kitsch, who is also a nutritionist, existed on a diet of oatmeal, egg whites, protein shakes, dry chicken breasts, yams and brown rice.

"It's brutal," he admits now, happily dipping into the bread basket. Kitsch's perfectly toned physique came courtesy of daily hour-and-a-half sessions of highintensity cardio intervals, plus sword training, band work and wire training. "And I wanted him to have a boxer's physique," says Kitsch. "I boxed a lot."

But one day, an exhausted Kitsch couldn't walk up a short hill on location in Utah. Stanton told the actor to sleep for half a day. Later, on set in London, Kitsch

collapsed. Doctors ordered three days of bed rest. Each time, Kitsch came back, rallying the crew and carrying on.

"It was a lot," Kitsch says. "And I think I grew in different ways, just that it didn't break me, I didn't really just quit. There's moments when I was definitely close."

Stanton remembers the exhaustive shoot days all too well. "And then you add, on top of that, that his character, narratively, gets beat up a lot. Before we were even halfway done on the shoot I was just saying, 'Thank you for not quitting.'... It really was a marathon."

Big movie aside, Kitsch is refreshingly candid in person.

The Vancouver native admits he doesn't care for the scene in Los Angeles (he lives in Austin), and says his personal life, while impressively un-blogged about, is minimal.

"I'm married to my work right now," he says with a shrug. "There are guys who have set the precedent, that have gotten movies this big that aren't in the (spot) light." His role models? "(Christian) Bale. (Matt) Damon.

(Johnny) Depp, even. So it can be done."

Kitsch next reunites with FNL director Peter Berg for Battleship, another mega-budget movie due in May. A big role in Oliver Stone's "incredibly violent and unapologetic" Savages (out this July) follows.

And of course, John Carter 2 could be waiting in the wings.

But Kitsch says the almighty box office is not top of mind. "My heart's in this film," he says. "I just want people to hopefully share what it was to make it.

Stanton, I hope the best for. I'd love to do it again and reunite with that family."

Š 2012, USA TODAY International.

POLY VORE For turning everyone into a fashion editor

By Stephanie Schomer

"We're democratizing fashion," says Jess Lee, CEO of Polyvore, the most popular fashion site on the Internet. More than 13 million unique visitors a month choose from 45 million product images to create "sets"—collages that look like fashion magazine pages, with every item available for purchase. That's made Polyvore a shoppable magazine, where every month is September. (Take that, Vogue.) "We're giving people, not fashion editors, the voice to define taste," says Lee. The industry likes what it sees, and partnerships helped push Polyvore into profitability in 2011. Bergdorf Goodman, for instance, asked users to style fashion director Linda Fargo for New York Fashion Week; the winner scored a seat at the Michael Kors show. American Eagle challenged users to make brandspecific sets, the best of which appeared on its Times Square billboard. "There 136

are few places that offer this kind of targeted demographic, as well as the tools to interact with them," says Oliver Walsh, CEO of digital marketing firm, which worked with Polyvore on a campaign for the launch of Versace for H&M. "We want brands to view us as a place full of their fans and influencers," says CTO and cofounder Pasha Sadri. To that end, last fall it introduced the Polyvore Intelligence Report, a monthly set of analytics that breaks down the demographics of Polyvore users and tracks their top trends and items. The report is sent for free to select retailers, designers, and editors, revealing what shoppers want now. (Hot: fisherman sweaters and studded handbags!) Next up for eager shoppers? Sites dedicated to weddings and interior design.

Š 2012, Distributed by Tribune Media Services.

bazaar investigates

AUK PARTICIPATES IN ITS 8TH EDUCARE EXHIBITION For the 8th consecutive year, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) has participated as a sponsor and exhibitor in EDUCARE 2012. The annual education and career development exhibition was held at the Mishref Kuwait International Fair (KIF) fairgrounds from March 12-15, 2012.

The AUK booth at EDUCARE was a point of attraction to a wide range of visitors including, recent school graduates, parents, young professionals, as well as local media. AUK President, Dr. Winfred Thompson, the Vice President for Administrative and Student Affairs, Dr. Carol Ross-Scott and Assistant to the President for Admissions and Public Affairs Amal Al-Binali were present at the event to welcome Dr. Khalid Al-Saad, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, who inaugurated the exhibition on behalf of the Minister of Education & Higher Education.

The AUK Admissions team was also present to meet with prospective students and visitors. The team exchanged conversations with visitors and responded to inquiries about the admissions process, campus life, and the different academic programs available at the University. In addition, representatives from the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at AUK talked to visitors about the extensive catalog of courses and programs the Center offers.

The exhibition was a good opportunity to highlight AUK’s main achievements this year, including, the accreditation of its Business and Economics Division by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); as well as, the accreditation of its Arts and Humanities Division, Social Sciences Division, and General Education Program by The American Academy for Liberal Education's (AALE).

More information on the American University of Kuwait can be found at www.auk.edu.kw.

RED BULL X-FIGHTERS RETURNS TO DUBAI ON FRIDAY 13TH APRIL Breathtaking jumps on motorcycles flying across bullfighting rings, gravity-defying acrobatics in front of frenzied crowds and some of the most exciting bare-knuckle rivalries anywhere in the world of sports will once again be the essential ingredients of the Red Bull X-Fighters World Tour. With six stops on four continents, the FMX riders will be battling it out for championship points before enormous crowds in returning hotspots Dubai, Madrid and Sydney. New locations include Glen Helen, California, Istanbul and Munich in the sport's 12th season. Du’s supported rider, Dany Torres of Spain, who was also the winner in Dubai’s 2011 stop, will be looking to defend his championship after dethroning American Nate Adams last year. The 2012 all-star lineup will be annouced on March 26. Dubai’s Red Bull X-Fighters 2012 will be held on April 13th under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.

April 13 – Dubai (UAE), May 12 – Glen Helen (USA), June 16 – Istanbul (Turkey), July 20 – Madrid (Spain), August 11 – Munich (Germany), October 6 – Sydney (Australia).

VIVA ANNOUNCES THE TWELVE STB LONDON FINALISTS VIVA continues supporting educational initiatives VIVA, Kuwait’s newest and most advanced mobile telecommunications service provider, announced the names of the twelve finalists who attended the second annual Small to Big (STB) management course at Kings College London between 11 and 17 March 2012.

Finalists were chosen through entries submitted from across Kuwait. This year, the finalists ranged from entrepreneurial individuals to employees who surpassed others through their exceptional work and potential. The Finalists of STB for 2012 are: Farah Alfadhalah; Abdulrahman AlNouri; Lama Alfadala; Hebah Almansour; Fawaz AlRoudhan; Omar Alothman; Fatemah Alhai; Dana Madouh; Fahd Alyahya; Abdullah Bu Ftain; Dari AlHuwail; And Mohammed Alnusif. Through STB, VIVA is fulfilling its commitment to supporting the community in creating an economically diversified and prosperous future for Kuwait.

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360 MALL LAUNCHES NEW BRAND CAMPAIGN The creative challenge was to establish a platform that could be used across messages and media while communicating to shoppers. The mall conducted quantitative and qualitative research amongst its core shoppers – Kuwaiti females, to have a deeper understanding of their beliefs and values to arrive at the essence of the campaign.

The campaign thought was based on insight that the malls’ core shoppers did not want to compromise in any aspect of their lives and wanted to live it to the fullest. This became the basis of the campaign thought – “Live 360” which is given a sense of immediacy by adjectivising it with “Live it now” resulting in “Live it now. Live 360” which is brought to life through 4 creative advertising executions.

With a deep understanding of its shoppers, the mall marketing team worked with advertising and communication professionals across Kuwait, Dubai and South Africa to develop a multimedia campaign.

“The campaign thought – “Live 360” will be leveraged and exploited through all tactical and strategic communications through the year delivering a consistent message to engage the malls shoppers and the public”, said Claudia Lopusinska.

GAP’S NEW SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTION CELEBRATES COLOR With the Launch of the new Spring/Summer 2012 collection, Gap is embracing color in every shade, shape and form. Tops, bottoms and accessories are brought to life in a wide range of luscious colors that instantly brighten your wardrobe. It’s color shown off in a sophisticated way – whether it’s contrasting or tone-on-tone, mixed, matched or striped, color has been elevated in a singularly Gap way.

The women’s collection bursts with color in variety of brightly hued jeans and khakis, including the Always Skinny Cropped Jean in fuchsia, surf pipe, lilac and rose and the Broken-In Straight Khakis in hot coral, active blue, dried fig, greenway and blue sky.

The men’s collection also incorporates color into jeans and khakis with the Slim Fit Jeans in French blue and red and the Denim-Washed Garment Dye Khakis in deep cobalt, cedar green, red rose and vintage wine.

Little ones can be bright this spring with a vibrantly-hued collection for girls and boys alike.

So ‘Be Bright’ and come celebrate the Fun and cheerful spirit of GAP this season !

STARBUCKS Love your smartphone as much as your Frappuccino? Then we have two words for you: Free Wi-Fi! Simply answer our weekly Starbucks Trivia question and you can win one of 25 Starbucks Cards toppedup with 5 KD, granting you free Wi-Fi access at selected Starbucks locations and enjoy your favorite coffee.

Starting April 1st and for a period of 1 month, check bazaar’s website, www.bazaar-magazine.com for details, and enter the competition on bazaar’s Facebook page and Twitter feeds to win.

‫مي باث آيس كريم‬ ‫ هذا االيس كريم الفوار يحول الحمام‬.‫ طبيعي خالي من المواد الحافظة‬100٪ ‫مي باث آيس كريم تم تصنيعه على أيدي محترفين وهو‬ ‫ فور رميه في مياه حوض االستحمام الساخنة ينطلق المزيج الفريد‬. ‫العادي إلى تجربة مفعمة بالنشاط تنغمس فيها جميع الحواس‬ ‫من المعادن والزيوت المستخلصة من المكونات الطازجة كبذور الجوجوبا وفول الصويا وزيت اللوز الحلو الذي يعيد النشاط لبشرتك‬ ‫ آيس كريم مي باث يذوب فعليا في حوض االستحمام فيطلق الفقاقيع العطرة محوال الحمام العادي إلى حمام‬.‫ويتركها ناعمة ورطبة‬ ‫ لتجربة لذيذة ومرطبة من الرفاهية‬،‫ دلل نفسك مع حمام اآليس كريم‬.‫فاخر يضاهي المنتجع الصحي من حيث الراحة واالستجمام‬ ‫ هذا اآليس كريم الفوار يذوب فورا في الماء الساخن مطلقا المعادن المغذية والزيوت العطرية التي‬.‫في حوض االستحمام الخاص بك‬ ‫ مي باث شربت هو سنفرة‬.‫ استلق وتمتع باالسترخاء بينما بشرتك تمتص المزيج الفريد من المكونات المعالجة‬.‫ترطب وتغني بشرتك‬ ‫ مي باث سائل االستحمام ينظف‬.‫ ولذيذا‬،‫ لينا‬،‫ لقشير وتنقية وترطيب الجلد فيتركه سلسا‬،E ‫للبشرة ذات رغوة مشبعة بفيتامين‬ ‫ وقد استلهمت كل نكهات سوائل اإلستحمام من روائح المناطق االستوائية‬.‫ ورائحتها لذيذة‬،‫ ويتركها لينة حريرية‬،‫بشرتك بلطف‬ ،‫ وزبدة الكاكاو‬،‫ مي باث ايسينج للجسم هو خاتمة االستمتاع الخاص بك! مشبع بزبدة الشيا‬.‫التي تشبعت بمستخلصات تلك المناطق‬ .‫ انه فاخرحقا وملمسه يشبه تماما كريمة الكيك على جسمك‬،‫ اكثف من اللوشن ولكن ليس بسماكة الزبدة‬.E ‫ و‬C ‫ و‬A ‫وفيتامينات‬ 139

bazaar a la mode BBW INTRODUCES THE NEW ‘ESCAPE TO THE TROPICS’ COLLECTION Lift your mood with the new Escape to the Tropics collection where exotic fruit meets tropical heat Don’t worry if you haven’t had the chance to head to an exotic island this season in the midst of cooler days.

Bath & Body Works’ Tropics range arrives in the Middle East just in time to bring you the ultimate beach holiday feeling you have been seeking!

Think Aruba’s tranquil waters, Rio’s tropical forests and Bali’s dream beaches and you can imagine the fragrant offering that the Tropics collection brings alive with three lush tropical scents: Bali Mango, Aruba Coconut and Rio Rumberry- just on time for a needed breath of fresh air now that chilled winter days are short lived.

Three new fragrances are now available in special preview 2oz size, which lets you to take your holiday mood wherever you go! All three ranges offer creamy body scrubs, body lotions, shower gels, fragrance mists that complete your true tropical experience. If you feel like experiencing a tropical vacation every day, slip in to the nearest Bath and Body Works and snatch up your favorite tropical scent!

DESIGUAL New and good, but specially good...

With its Spring Summer 2012 Woman collection, Desigual has breathed fresh air into its proposals, rekindling spirits without losing is the essence of its identity. New territories are mingled with the most desigualised lines, which are also presented under new codes for the new Desigual woman. Everything NEW is worked from a constant, inescapable premise... it must be GOOD. The BRAZIL, GREECE, NIGHT and DESIGUAL lines create a generous collection, not just in quantity but in depth. With an even greater mix of materials, charms, more embroidery, etc. Desigual continues to transmit emotion, feeling, color... and life, but seen from a new perspective, enabling it to explore new paths. BRAZIL’s calling card is colour, the brightest colors with the most vibrant contrasts. Greens, yellows, turquoises.... are infused with complete inspiration to create garments that ooze happiness from first sight. The mixes have seeped into the prints, combining with stripes, flowers and embroidery. Shine is an important detail in this line, with several garments created in satin. Watercoloured, blurred prints with a slightly naïf inspiration catch your eye.

NEW LOOK WOMENSWEAR SS12 Tribal prints, ethnic beading and Aztec influence combine to inject a dose of safari into this season’s new womenswear collection. Animal print is bold and fierce, refreshed with flashes of colour that bring alive delicate fabrics and shapes.

Inspired by the Savannah plains of Africa, key colors rest on sanded and sunbleached neutrals with shades of paprika, mustard and burnt metallics coming through as strong highlights. The introduction of sleeveless shirts, tapered chinos, safari shorts and unlined jackets give a utilitarian edge and harshness to an otherwise soft and feminine story.

Transforming the look from day to night relies heavily on the use of detailing. Fringing, lacing and subtle embellishments create a look inspired by desert nights whilst leather, snake print and sumptuous suede add texture and richness. This season, New Look’s womenswear is feminine, fearless and fun. Sugary pastels, tribal prints, neon flashes and lots of sheer demonstrate that with this New Look collection, the delight is in the details. Prepare to be wowed!

For more information visit www.newlook.com.

ROGER DUBUIS AND BEHBEHANI UNVEIL LA MONEGASQUE COLLECTION IN KUWAIT Connoisseurs of fine watches were all in Kuwait to witness Swiss luxury Maison ROGER DUBUIS unveiling its new and unique La Monégasque range at the 360 Mall from March 20 to 22. The watches are available for sale through the Behbehani boutiques in Salhiya Complex and Al Hamra Mall in Kuwait City.

The Monégasque collection conjures up an era when refinement was at the essence of the art of living. This new version of the exclusive line incorporates all the refinement and beauty of the complication that is most associated with fine watchmaking: the flying tourbillon. The masterful blend of mechanical precision and elegance, this model enriches the latest masculine collection from ROGER DUBUIS. It is the dazzling rendezvous between glamour and Fine Watchmaking, a marriage that infallibly inspired ROGER DUBUIS. Dedicated to a dream, a lasting tradition and the pursuit of excellence, the Monégasque collection vibrates in harmony with the mythical scene of Monte Carlo.

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bazaar techno Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. ~ Arthur C. Clarke

CANON EOS 5D MARK III D800 not living up to your low-light performance standards? You could always jump ship and pick up the new Canon EOS 5D Mark III ($3,500) instead. At its heart lies an all-new 22.3-megapixel full-frame sensor that delivers stellar images up to ISO 102,400, and it's augmented by the new, blazing fast DIGIC 5+ processor for 6 fps shooting, a 61-point AF system, Oscar-worthy 1080p video recording, a built-in HDR mode, and a rugged magnesium alloy body with a stainless steel mount — all of which ensure that you get the shot you need, no matter the time of day, weather, or situation.

www.amazon.com

APPTAG LASER BLASTER What can't smartphones do? Mark laser tag off the list. The AppTag Laser Blaster ($35) promises to turn your phone (or iPod touch, we suppose) into a laser tag gun/shooter that works via IR and high frequency sound to let app developers create nearly any kind of multiplayer shooting game you can imagine, all without needing to block the headphone port or eat away battery via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Six buttons — including a pressure sensitive trigger and an oversized reload switch — enable plenty of real-world interaction, and compatibility with most Nerf and Buzzbee toy guns serves as icing on the geek-flavored cake.

www.kickstarter.com

ADOBE PHOTOSHOP TOUCH Your iPad 2 just got a little more useful. Apparently aware that Photoshop Express wasn't getting it done for a lot of us, Adobe's upped the editing ante with Photoshop Touch ($10). Also available for the 400 or so Android tablets sold so far, it brings desktop features like layers, selection tools, advanced adjustments, and filters to the tablet, along with plenty of other tricks like the Scribble Selection tool, integrated Google Image Search, and Facebook sharing. Yes, its max resolution of 1600 x 1600 is pretty pathetic given the size of images we deal with these days, but for images that you're planning on sharing via the web or email, it's more than enough.

www.itunes.apple.com

B&O PLAY BEOLIT 12 PORTABLE MUSIC SYSTEM Bang & Olufsen, purveyor of pricey AV products, has announced a new brand and the offshoot's first product — the B&O Play Beolit 12 Portable Music System ($800). Designed by Danish designer Cecilie Manz, the Beolit 12 features sleek looks topped off with an Italian full-grain leather carrying strap, and packs in Apple's AirPlay technology, a built-in power supply, and a rechargeable battery that's good for 8 hours of use. Its 120 watt amplifier system individually drives two 2-inch tweeters and a 4-inch woofer.

www.beoplay.com

BIOLITE Is it a portable stove or a gadget charger? How about both. The BioLite ($130) is a compact, portable stove that burns sticks, twigs, pine cones, and other renewable resources instead of petroleum gas, lighting quickly and bringing water to a boil in no time. In addition, it packs a USB port on the front that draws its power from the heat of the fire, letting you charge your phone, GPS, or LED lights miles from the nearest outlet.

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STUDY: Facebook profile beats IQ test in predicting job performance

By Deborah Netburn

Can a person's Facebook profile reveal what kind of employee he or she might be?

The answer is yes, and with unnerving accuracy, according to a new paper published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology. And if you are smugly thinking to yourself, "I've carefully wiped my Facebook page of any incriminating photos, comments and wall posts," - well, it turns out you may still not have hidden your true nature from future employers: On a rating scale that examines key personality attributes that indicate future job success, you might get rated high in conscientiousness and possibly low on extroversion.

Other things a prospective employer might 144

be able to glean from your Facebook profile is openness to new experiences (vacation pictures from a glacier off New Zealand), emotional stability (are your friends constantly offering you words of comfort?) and agreeableness (are you constantly arguing with "friends?").

In a series of two studies conducted by researchers at Northern Illinois University, the University of Evansville and Auburn University, six people with experience in human resources were asked to rate a sample of 500 people in terms of key personality traits using only the sample group's

Facebook pages as a guideline.

The raters were told to spend roughly five to 10 minutes with each person's Facebook page, and work on the project for no longer than one and a half hours per day to avoid fatigue. They were asked to rate members of the sample group on what is known as the "Big Five" personality traits, which includes extroversion, conscientiousness, emotional stability, agreeableness and openness to new experiences. High scores on these traits are generally accepted by human resources managers as an indication of future good job performance.

Members of the sample group were asked to give a self-evaluation and took an IQ test. In one study, researchers followed up with the employers of people in the sample group six months after their personality traits were rated, to ask questions about job performance.

The researchers found that the raters were generally in agreement about the personality traits expressed in the sample group's Facebook page, and that their ratings correlated strongly with self-rated personality traits. More importantly, they also found that the Facebook ratings were a more accurate way of predicting a person's job performance than an IQ test.

Although the study does suggest that looking at a job applicant's Facebook page can prove useful for employers, Donald Kluemper, the lead researcher on the study, said employers need to tread carefully here.

A Facebook page can provide a lot of information that it would be illegal for an employer to ask of a candidate in a phone interview. For instance, a person's gender, race, age and whether they have a disability might all be visible on that person's Facebook page.

Still, a 2011 study conducted by the social media service Reppler found that 90 percent of recruiters and hiring managers look at an applicant's Facebook page whether they should or not.

"This was an effort to provide some evidence that checking on a person's Facebook page might be valuable and might be useful," Kluemper said.

"But I wouldn't go so far as to say that one study should be used as a reason to start using Facebook in hiring.

"Any other selection tool that is out there has been studied hundreds of thousands of times.

Basically, there needs to be a lot more work done in this area."

Š 2012, Distributed by MCT Information Services

bazaar checks it out KATE SPADE NEW YORK ANNOUNCES ENTRANCE INTO MIDDLE EAST First regional store opens in Kuwait kate spade new york announces a new distribution partnership with Jashanmal Group in the Middle East with the opening of its first store in the region. The partnership deal will involve exclusive distribution for the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain and will include women’s ready to wear, handbags, small leather goods, fashion accessories and jewelry in both wholesale and retail points of sale.

The first kate spade new york store opening took place at the 360 Mall in Kuwait on March 8, 2012. This will be followed by a store opening at the Dubai Mall in mid April. Both locations will carry the full lifestyle offering of product. There are plans to expand into other territories in the region in 2012 and 13 with multiple retail stores and several shop-in-shops.

Tony Jashanmal, Group Executive Director said; “We are delighted to announce our association with kate spade new york which is one of the fastest growing brands in the US. We are confident that this is an excellent addition to our portfolio of accessible luxury lifestyle brands and we are sure that it will offer our consumers an unparalleled sophisticated shopping experience.”

VICTORIA’S SECRET EXCLUSIVE SPRING/SUMMER ACCESSORIES Victoria’s Secret has some amazing new accessories for Spring/ Summer 2012 that are exclusive to the Victoria’s Secret Beauty & Accessories stores only. These items cannot even be found in the Flagship stores in the US! Head to Victoria’s Secret for some exclusive accessories and make them your secret!

NO BURN … NO MORE …& BETTER YET BYE BYE WRINKLED CLOTHES …

How many times have you burnt your clothes while ironing, or even worse burnt yourself (ouch)? The all-new award winning Bosch ‘SensorSecure’ Steam Iron - TDA 5680 prevents all burning accidents as the iron switches off when put down, and heats up extremely quickly when picked up again.

That’s because the Premier’s advanced, next-generation “active control” auto-shut off knows when the iron is being held — and shuts off power when it isn’t!

In independent trials, safety-conscious users were impressed that the Premier ‘Sensor Secure’ had such a feature — because there was no loss of performance even after it was left unused for 10 seconds.

Tempted yet?

Check out the new Bosch TDA 5680 ironing machine in all Ali Abdul Wahab Showrooms in Shuwaikh, Tel.: 2481 8424; Dajeej, Tel.: 2431 9060; My Home, Tel.: 2226 1700and SunCity, Tel.: 2224 1226.

AL-TIJARI WINS THE BEST INTERACTIVITY REWARD Under the Arab Banking Web Award Commercial Bank of Kuwait announced that it was awarded the Best Interactivity Award for 2011 for the Arab financial institutions category during the 3rd Arab Banking Web Award ceremony recently held in Beirut.

Commenting on this award, Ms. Amani Al Wara’a, Assistant General Manager – Advertising & Public Relations Department said “We are delighted to win the Best Interactivity Trophy for 2011 which reflect the high recognition of the Bank’s website by experts in the Region, where the website provides a range of facilities and state-of –theart services to ensure interactivity and present comprehensive information of the Bank’s products and services in such a user-friendly way.”

Ms. Amani Al Wara’a concluded that this annual event organized by the Pan Arab Web Award Academy help encourage innovation in the banking sector and facilitate and expand the banking services by using modern and up-to-date means, noting that the Bank winning of this award will give us a boost for further efforts to develop the means of communication between the Bank and its customers and the society in general.

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ZAFRAN’S MASTER CHEF TO REVEAL THE SECRETS OF INDIAN CUISINE With exclusive cooking courses every Saturday Zafran, the contemporary Indian restaurant by Foodmark, is inviting food enthusiasts to discover the secrets of Indian cooking with a series of exclusive cookery courses hosted by Zafran’s executive chef, Mohit Dhiingra. The classes and demonstrations, held at Zafran’s kitchens during March, April and May, will teach budding chefs about the subtleties and intricacies of the authentic, exciting flavors used in Indian cuisine, as well as the underlying medicinal properties of the spices used. The classes will be held at Zafran every Saturday from 10:00am – 12:00pm priced at KD 12 per head per session. In addition to the cooking sessions the participants will also be treated to a two-course lunch and will get to take home a goodie bag with homemade chutney, spice mix and a recipe book.

Food enthusiasts will have the opportunity to recreate an abundance of mouth-watering dishes from a wide range of Indian cooking styles, from learning the secrets behind the traditional spices used in dishes such as Tandoori chicken, to attaining the tender flavor of the Reasha Galouti from the North. Guests can also enjoy sampling dishes, which Chef Mohit will prepare for them on the day and receive advice on how to deliver sophisticated presentation with simple ingredients, all of which will be sure to impress dinner party guests.

BOSSINI SPRING SUMMER’12 COLLECTION Bossini Spring Summer’12 Collection is geared up for all the excitement it has to offer young kids, ladies and men. Aspire to the lavish bright colors this summer and explore the tribal patterns and intense embroidery with the dash of lace for a real change. For a fab style on the beach, Bossini’s white denim capris, hot pants, and check tanks are perfectly tailored to your fashion trend this season.

Ladies summer fashion by Bossini this year is all about great taste inspired with Leisure - French Sailor theme consisting of bold stripes, polka dot, graphic of sea-shore, boat wheel & navy’s ropes with all over print tunic shirt, dip dye print tee and ankle length cargo pant.

Men’s summer fashion by Bossini this year is all about great taste inspired from retro naval style. Key garments include Sailor & pier. Key Items: Marine Stripe is the key word of this season, we offer up a diverse selection of stripe style including stripe sweatshirt with toggle detail, special print tee & polo which work best with naval jacket. Emphasize seafearing style by pairing with double cloth shirt and rolled up chino.

Visit Bossini at Hawally, Fahaheel, Farwaniya, Khaldiya Co-op and Qortuba Co-op to experience a whole lot of summer fun!

TREAT YOURSELF TO PINKBERRY’S EXCLUSIVE WATERMELON FROZEN YOGURT FOR LIMITED TIME ONLY Swirly goodness can also be enjoyed in a convenient take-home package An irresistible new taste awaits at the world’s number one frozen yogurt brand this season. For a strictly limited period in all eight Kuwait Pinkberry stores, customers can experience the extraordinary, cool and refreshing taste of Watermelon frozen yogurt, topped with fresh pieces of Watermelon and Watermelon puree. This wonderful combination, rich with Vitamin A and C, is the ideal healthy non fat treat.

Customers can now also enjoy their favourite Pinkberry all the time, for either themselves or to share with family and friends with Pinkberry’s new Take Home 25oz which is easy and convenient. Any combination of flavors can be swirled in the Take Home pot.

The non-fat frozen yogurt at Pinkberry includes six distinct flavours of Original, Pomegranate, Chocolate, Passion Fruit, Coconut and Mango. Rich in calcium, vitamins and minerals, Pinkberry frozen yogurt has been certified by the National Yogurt Association of the USA. Pinkberry's frozen yogurts can be further accented by a wide variety of rich toppings ranging from fresh fruits to Belgian chocolates.

WATANIYA TELECOM SPONSORED ROAD RUSH RACE On 9th and 10th at Bahrain International Circuit Driven by its desire to spread awareness on the importance of applying safe driving rules and limit car accidents, and based on its social responsibility towards the youth population, Wataniya Telecom sponsored “Road Rush 2 Race”, which took place on March 9th and 10th at the Bahrain International Circuit. It was Wataniya’s first time to sponsor the Road Rush Race, which is specially designed for young ladies only to take part in. The participants raced their sports cars over two consecutive days competing against each other in different race obstacles to win valuable prizes and medals. Commenting on the sponsorship of the exciting car race and show, Abdulaziz Al-Balool Director of Public Relations at Wataniya praised the success achieved in the first Road Rush which encouraged Wataniya to sponsor the second race. Al-Balool emphasized the importance of the race in reinforcing safe driving rules amongst women and car enthusiasts. The aim is to reduce car accidents on the streets which remain to be an important objective for Wataniya to achieve within the community.

For more information on Wataniya’s sponsorships and events, please visit www.wataniya.com, or follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/wataniyatelecom, or check latest updates on www.facebook.com/wataniya or get the latest news on Wataniya’s blog www.wataniya.com/blog.

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bazaar scopes

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

TAU R U S

April 20 - May 20

GEMINI

May 21 - June 21

Your job scene is hopping with action and fun this month. You could get a raise or a promotion, or both. Your health should be in tip-top shape so get out of the house and move around. This would be an excellent time to start a new diet or exercise plan. During the last half of the month your focus shifts to partnerships and serious relationships.

They are blessed with some great aspects. If you’re planning on popping the question, wait until the last day of the month to do so. At that time the planets line up to really cement anything started on that day.

CANCER

Personal committed relationships dominate your life for the first three weeks of April. Renewed romance and enthusiasm could find its way back into this area. If you’re not in a committed relationship look for happiness to come through your business partners. Remember to acknowledge them for all they do in your behalf. It will pave the way for the remainder of April. During the last half of the month your focus shifts to shared resources. A quick accounting of the joint checking account could find you with a surplus of cash you did not expect to find. A quick, spontaneous trip may be in the offing. Be mindful that Mercury is still retrograde until the end of the month and could move to foul your fun.

June 22 - July 22

Joint money, taxes and insurance will hold your attention for the first two weeks of the month. Good news could be coming your way, just when you needed it the most. Careful planning may be required to stretch funds after the 21st, at a time when you feel the pull of the open road and the need to get away from it all. If traveling is on the agenda, remember to triple-check everything like schedules, planes tickets and reservations. The last half of the month finds you in pleasant company and focusing on your committed other. Solid ground may be gained with this person if you remember to listen closely to what they are saying.

LEO

Now is a good time to consider increasing your knowledge at the higher education level. Perhaps embarking on a new path of enlightenment or just a reading really thick book. Travel is favored as well, but with Mercury retrograde it’s advisable to triple-check you plans, schedules, and itinerary for mishaps that could catch you by surprise. During the last half of the month your career sector gets a big boost with Jupiter, Mars and the Sun all crowded into this house.

Sudden acclaim could come your way, shining the spotlight on you.

The benefits of this will be most felt on the last day of April.

July 23 - Aug 22

The career sector is jumping with activity and excitement this month. You may be thrust into the limelight over your accomplishments. There could be major advancements and pay increases from ideas and hard work you have put forth. Traveling for business or transactions at a great distance work best on the 17th. Double-check all the figures before agreeing to anything though. If you must travel this month, wait until the last day when aspects favor a journey filled with peace, smooth sailing and quiet joy. Traveling with friends is also favored. There could be some surprises from them along the way.

VIRGO

Nov 22 - Dec 21 Dec 22 - Jan 19 Jan 20 - Feb 18

Activities with friends sweep you through this April with fun at every turn. Short trips during the first two weeks could find you in lovely surroundings. If you must travel, make sure you triple check everything before you leave with Mercury retrograde all month. The last half of April could provide you with some surprises on the job and regarding your career. Some will be very visible and some will come from behind the scenes. Career changes made on the last day of the month will be the most beneficial and long lasting.

Aug 23 - Sept 22

LIBRA

Sept 23 - Oct 22

S CO R P I O

Oct 23 - Nov 21

S A G I T TA R I U S C A P R I CO R N A Q UA R I U S PISCES

Feb 19 - March 20

what’s your sign?

Romance flows freely in your life this month. It always does at this time of year. There could be some real surprises along these lines.

Persons could step from the shadows with flowers for you. Persons you had never considered romantically before could pursue with vigor and vice versa. During the last half of the month you shift to matters regarding your employment and health. There could be advancements on the job or you could take major steps to improve you health at that time. On the last day of the month, a matter regarding where you live could and should be finalized. Clear and sound thinking make whatever is occurring to come together in a very solid and beneficial way.

The home front is looking so right this month. Any improvements you have made or are working on pay big dividends during the first half of this month. If there are things that you would like to change regarding you abode, this would be the right time to undertake that effort. The results will be very satisfying. The last half of the month has you focused on your romantic life. There will be many opportunities at this time with people you would not normally find yourself attracted to. Still, take the risk and experience something new and different. You could receive a very meaningful romantic communication on the last day of the month. It will be safe to take it face value and trust it.

This will be an interesting month for you as the emphasis is on communication. There could be a flurry of information coming your way. The problem is Mercury is retrograde for the month. You may have to triple- check that information before releasing it to others.

The last two weeks of the month will find you drawn to your home.

Something there calls to you and the backyard barbeque looks so inviting. A home improvement project could find its wheels during this period with surprising results. On the last day of the month, there could be something of a very solid agreement reached that could affect you for some time to come.

Your money is highlighted this month. It’s all good news, though.

You may be feeling the effects of a budget put into place months ago, thus resulting is a surplus of funds. Also, changes that you could have made at the personal level bear meaningful fruit during this two-week period of April. After the middle of the month, communication picks up in your life. Be mindful that Mercury in retrograde could affect the flow and content of that communication. Try not to take anything at face value, but check out its validity before you accept it. On the last day of the month you could receive a very meaningful insight about yourself. This something could be of a very solid nature. What a nice gift from the heavens.

It could be safe to say that your friends could be planning ways to ruin your love life this month as a prank. Or it could be the other way around. Either way, be aware that there will be friction. You could also be feeling some restrictions that rub you the wrong way, too.

Patience is a virtue. Don’t go ballistic until you have all the facts. After the 24th, it would be a good time for you to find a solitary outlet for you energies. This will allow you the room you need to work out your problems away from distracting influences.

You’re bubbling with energy this month with the Sun and Mars in your 1st house of self. The energy lasts for three weeks and it’s a good time to get out there and do the projects you’ve been thinking about. During the month, there could be confusing signals and signs coming from your Committed Other. Postpone taking action on joint money matters until after the 11th. Good luck could come your way during the last half of the month in areas regarding resources and cash. Long forgotten loans and favors could suddenly be repaid to your surprise and pleasure. source: www.horoscopessign.com

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