bazaar September 2024

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About the Cover: This month’s cover is instantly recognizable to anyone who is familiar with the work of Kuwaiti artist Ghadah Alkandari.

‘Eve Stands for Palestine’ is Alkandari’s act of solidarity with the people of Palestine. It was painted in late October 2023, at the beginning of what would be an ongoing genocidal campaign against the Palestinians.

It is part of a series of drawings, paintings and handmade stickers depicting her character Eve wearing the Palestinian Keffiyah with resolve and pride.

September marks a pivotal point in the year—a bridge between the scorching heat of summer and the months pretending to be autumnal cool. As the days grow shorter and the air starts to crisp, we find ourselves in a period of transition. With people returning to Kuwait after their summer breaks, kids starting school and others packing their bags to leave permanently, we’re trying to focus on the things that make change more comfortable. This issue captures that shift, focusing on the changes that come with the new season. Whether it’s preparing for the school year ahead, refreshing your wardrobe with practical fall essentials, or reflecting on personal goals as the year begins to wind down, September offers a chance to reset and refocus.

We’ve always found inspiration from others who have walked the path before us. This month we meet Aya who has found passion in baking and sharing her sweet creations online, Athari Abdulaziz AlMutawa, co- founder of The Plant Society who is changing our approach to gardening, Lumina’s band members who tell us more about their musical journey and the avant-garde creatives behind Art Scene.

One of the best ways to embrace change is to make sure that our health is taken care of. Dr. Ahmad Al Shatti, Taiba Hospital’s consultant cardiologist explained some of the best things we could do to keep our hearts stronger. One of the things he suggested was regular exercise. We can’t hit the gym without looking our best and the latest collection from Athleta is helping fuel our motivation. We’ve also gotten some great advice from Xcite, for the best gadgets that can help us study smarter, not harder. Welcome to a new season, and a new opportunity to grow.

Happy reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

The bazaar team...

Boss

Ahmed El-Adly

Editor

Alia Al Duaij

Operations Manager

Ihab Youssef

Content Manager

Yasmine El Charif

Mixed Media Solutions

Jennifer Cádiz

Design

Shadi Mofeed

Staff Writer/Online Media

Yasmin Gamal

Israa Odeh

Cover by Ghadah Alkandari

Contributing Writers

Hamad Al-Khudher

Lara Jadayel

The Social Culture Club

Communications

Hala Y. Sharara

Syndicates & Sources

Fast Company

LA Times

MCT International

Newsweek

Printing

British Industries for Printing and Packaging

members

www.bpaww.com

INDEX SEPTEMBER 2024

26

THE PLANT SOCIETY

In this issue of Talking Greene, Hamad Al Khuder interviews Athari Abdulaziz AlMutawa, the cofounder of The Plant Society. This business offers a unique array of luxury, high-end, and practical gardening equipment. Athari’s mission is to promote more engaging, interactive, and aesthetically pleasing approaches to gardening.

42

HEART OF THE MATTER WITH DR AHMAD ALSHATTI

Your heart is about the size of your fist and on average it beats about 100,000 times a day. We go about our day without considering that this organ is keeping us alive, until it pounds faster or skips a beat. We spoke to Doctor Ahmad Alshatti, Consultant of Internal Medicine and Structural Interventional Cardiology at Taiba Hospital to learn more about heart health and what we can do to protect it.

96

50 YEARS OF THE PORSCHE 911 TURBO

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo, Porsche is launching an exclusive anniversary model of its iconic sports car. The 911 Turbo 50 Years combines outstanding performance and the finest materials with exclusive design elements. The interior and exterior evoke historic 911 Turbo models, complemented by timelessly elegant and contemporary styling elements.

110

ATHLETA’S REVOLUTIONARY TRAIN COLLECTION

Athleta, ushered in a new era of unparalleled performance technology with the debut of its new Train Collection. Learn more about the new 8-piece collection and the culmination of more than three years of rigorous, comprehensive wear tests with a range of women including elite professional athletes and everyday consumers.

30

AYA’S BAKING ADVENTURE

From baking for friends and family, to creating a widespread social media frenzy over her mini macarons, the establishment of Aya’s Baking Adventure was, as the name reveals, an adventure. Aya’s journey as a baker became the interest of others wanting to see the transformation of ingredients into beautiful edible treats.

64

ART SCENE

“Circles are the revolution.” With tongue firmly in cheek, these words are proudly projected onto the main screen in the last gathering of the season for the Art Scene community. bazaar met Art Scene which has been forming and reforming the creative spaces available to local artists, writers, musicians, entertainers, and filmmakers for the last year.

LUMINA

The Social Culture Club sits down with the members of Lumina to learn more about the dynamic journey of the band’s formation and evolution within Kuwait’s local music scene, revealing the intricate blend of influences that shape their music and ethos. 36

78

THE ALL 2025 NEW TOYOTA CAMRY

Toyota and Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Sons launched the latest Camry in the Middle East, showcasing its sleek design, spacious interior, and advanced technology. With nearly 20 million units sold globally, the Camry remains a top midsize sedan, now featuring a new Hybrid System, continuing its legacy of quality and performance. We learn more about this new exciting model.

#1

What: @lekitoys

Info: Create, play and learn

Editor’s Note: Get ready for school

#3

What: @stickhouse

Info: Italian handcrafted gelato, dishes and coffee

Editor’s Note: Sweet and cute

#2

What: @Lil.lovekw

Info: Kid’s online store

Editor’s Note: Let your little one live out her ballerina dreams

#4

What: @limited_giftkw

Info: Gifts and more

Editor’s Note: Fill up the whole class’s backpacks with fun things

#5

What: @voirbyus

Info: Fashion designer

Editor’s Note: We love the business chic vibes

STUDIO TO STREET FALL ESSENTIALS

TALKING GREENE: THE PLANT SOCIETY

For the love of gardening

by Hamad Al Khudher

Talking Greene is a series of discussions centered on the idea of sustainability in Kuwait, the group leading this movement, and locating tools to assist the general public in making wiser decisions. As a business owner in the same industry, I believe it is my responsibility to promote local organizations and individuals working to change the way we shop for goods and to increase environmental consciousness both domestically and abroad.

In this issue of Talking Greene, we delve into the story of Athari Abdulaziz AlMutawa, the co- founder of The Plant Society. This business offers a unique array of luxury, high-end, and practical gardening equipment. Athari’s mission is to promote more engaging, interactive, and aesthetically pleasing approaches to gardening. As a Kuwait-based entrepreneur with extensive horticultural expertise and a master’s degree in applied science from Australia, Athari’s passion for plants has flourished, and she has recognized the immense potential they hold, especially within the Kuwaiti context.

What was the inspiration behind the idea of The Plant Society? It all started at home. I love growing my own plants at home, especially in my quarters so when I was growing things at home, and I started buying stuff for myself, I realized that the market in Kuwait was much smaller in comparison to when I was living in Australia and Belgium when it comes to good quality gardening products. I used to go grocery shopping, for example, and find whatever I needed right at the counter or within the vicinity, offering a wider selection of products and choosing them was fun in itself. Whereas in Kuwait, I don’t get that at all and the majority of such products are the

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same everywhere you go. It becomes very monotonous and boring. I found myself wondering if I was the sole individual facing a similar predicament, and consequently decided to source exceptional products that are visually appealing, clean, and aesthetically pleasing, ultimately enhancing the enjoyment of gardening. I believe that we all should surround ourselves with beautiful things when we can and this would obviously make us feel better and enjoy our surroundings and feel rested.

Can you give our readers an idea on the native plants in Kuwait?

The region is home to over 374 species of native plants, with some unfortunately endangered. Many of these plants are native exclusively to the Middle East and have a rich history, with a significant number used for medicinal purposes. Looking back, these plants were widely utilized as medicine and animal feed, but regrettably, that connection has been lost over time.

Can’t such plants be reintroduced in the country?

Some are endangered, and some still exist. However, some of the issues are related to the lack of information or educating people on how to use them from ethnobotany to bring it back to modern day science. It is just a matter of finding that missing link, which isn’t easy and requires a lot of work, research, and more importantly funding, to reintroduce it to modern day Kuwait.

As a woman in the sustainable industry in Kuwait, what are some of the hurdles or struggles have you faced?

As a woman working in the government sector and the industry, I’m in, I faced two significant challenges. The government realm was predominantly male dominated, especially in my workplace, which included engineers, farmers, and other personnel. I recall an instance where I wanted to join the workers and use a shovel to dig a hole and help with planting, but they insisted I shouldn’t, citing my gender and the belief that such hard labor is not suitable for women. However, I had previously engaged in such labor back in Australia and enjoyed it. As someone passionate about my profession, I don’t mind getting hands-on and performing manual labor, as I consider it an integral part of my work. Despite the obstacles, I persevered in establishing the Plant Society, and I encourage others to pursue their goals, especially in their careers, with determination and resilience.

Despite the challenges, I have also been very fortunate to receive tremendous support from my family, friends, and even colleagues throughout this process. I have also been blessed with a few exceptional mentors who have been instrumental in assisting me, whether at my job or with the Plant Society. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge some of these individuals.,my sister Amnah Almutawa, Ali Al-Gaith, Dr Amal Abdulkareem Abdullah and Proceso T. Ramos Jr and Muhammad Riaz Feroz Din.

I have also had great support from people wanting to get involved in some way, whether sharing with me helpful information about horticulture or wanting to purchase products from me as support because they see the quality that I am investing in.

What’s in store for the upcoming period for The Plant Society?

I thoroughly enjoy giving plant workshops, as there is significant demand for them. Many people express keen interest in learning about plants, and some wish for their young ones to participate as well. I stumbled into giving these

workshops by chance and have been pleasantly surprised by how much I’ve enjoyed them. I particularly enjoy teaching children, especially when it comes to raising awareness about how foods are sourced like chocolate, as some are unaware that cocoa comes from plants. Engagingly educating the youth is crucial, so they develop a deep appreciation for the value of plants and their importance to life on Earth.

Follow @theplantsociety.kw on Instagram to learn more plants and upcoming events.

AYA’S BAKING ADVENTURE

For the Love of Baking and Spreading Joy

By Lara Jadayel

From baking for friends and family, to creating a widespread social media frenzy over her mini macarons, the establishment of Aya’s Baking Adventure was, as the name reveals, an adventure.

Young Aya Ghader watched as her late mother, may she rest in peace, intricately flipped the legendary crème caramel pan on its head, mesmerized by the goldenness of the caramelized sauce as it glazed the layer of creamy custard. A complex quest, Aya reminisces, only her mother was able to do so magically. The dessert would be admired then savored, a joyful memory that ran in the Ghader household.

And so, Aya and her elder brother adopted the desire to make those around them as happy as their mother; they began venturing into their childhood home kitchen, baking cakes for the entire family. With time, Aya’s admiration for baking continued to grow. She went on to bake for extended family and friends, whose smiles widened just by the smell of her freshly baked goods taken out of the oven. Aya was uninterruptedly found in the kitchen, sifting and whisking, testing out new recipes and flavors for her loved ones.

In 2010, Aya had macarons for the first time from a well-known bakery in Kuwait… and it was then that she asked herself, ‘How can I make this simple looking cookie at home?’ She began with her research, reading written recipes and watching hundreds of videos in different languages. She would step into her kitchen, testing and testing, until after so many failed trials declare, ‘Macarons are the hardest, most tricky dessert in the world!’ It took her hundreds of hours, and many more failed attempts, to finally get to the right consistency… until she then began experimenting with fillings!

Aya’s efforts paid off as her macrons became a hit! They were loved, devoured and recommended by family and friends. But up until then, she baked as a hobby, balancing with a full-time job. Her delicious recipes were savored by selected people only… the outside world hadn’t yet tried her baked goods.

That changed in 2015 when Aya and her husband participated for the first time in a local food market selling her signature Crème Brûlée, all made in her home kitchen, all on her

If not baking, Aya is: Singing

Favorite macaron flavor: Chocolate with caramel

Cuisine of choice: Lebanese-Egyptian fusion

Favorite destination to vacation in: Anywhere with crystal clear beaches

Dine-in or take-out: Dine in

An app you can’t stop using: YouTube

A motto you live by: ‘Everything is possible’

Something you take for granted: God’s destiny

Something you cannot live without: Family

Favorite book: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter

Favorite movie: Pretty Woman

Baker you admire: My Mom

Something you do to de-stress: Bake

own. Throughout her time at the market, she relished in her success of seeing as people excitedly munched into her baked goods… she recognized an internal feeling of pure and utter happiness. Her desserts made others feel, well, good! She wanted to spread more joy, and to create more and differently, a trait only made for competitive spirits.

And that was the start of Aya’s Baking Adventure!

Aya’s journey as a baker became the interest of others wanting to see the transformation of ingredients into beautiful edible treats; all from a home kitchen, all by a sole baker. From cakes, to macrons, to Cake-arons, Aya began sharing her unique designs for people to see through a screen, walking us through the process of baking, decorating, and packaging.

Each order has a backstory, which she narrates, attaching meaning and emotion to her baked goods. She gained popularity across social media platforms as viewers tuned in to watch her perfect customized orders; from realistic

book cakes to Super Mario characters, to replicas of burgers and fries, to gender reveal macrons… nothing became unexplored territory. Customization became Aya’s forte, and she began accepting orders of, well, any design you could think of.

She continued to bake and create, introducing the new and delicious mini macarons, thanks to Aya’s elder sister who suggested this brilliant idea, which set a new trend for edible giveaways! Moreover, Aya delved into the world of cookies, brownies, and exotic fillings for macarons; which led her to create her signature Kunafa Pistachio filling.

Viewers, supporters, and loved ones were on YouTube and Aya’s socials to watch as she did her magic… just as her mother did.

But of course, behind the entertaining snippets of transforming desserts into the talk of any celebration, is the story of the baker, Aya. In this feature, we learn more about Aya’s Baking Adventure, and how she manages being a sole, from-home baker who never stops introducing the newest and the most delicious treats.

How did the idea of customizing macaron orders come to you?

Aya: I used to follow different baking-related accounts on social media. One day, I saw someone making different shapes made out of macarons… and because I am very competitive by nature, I thought to myself why don’t I try doing that?

I then started with simple designs, like a onecolored heart shaped macaron. I then evolved to making multi-colored, complicated characters like Princess Peach from Super Mario. And because I admire the Arabic language, I delved into the making of Arabic letters Cake-arons, which are big pieces of macarons layered on top of each other with fillings in between. Seeing the popularity gained from Cakearons, that’s when I began creating many different designs for many different occasions.

How do you manage creating recipes, baking, packaging orders, managing inventory, delivery, customer service, marketing, and many other factors all on your own?

Aya: Magically! It’s exhausting to handle a business by yourself. I have a lot of sleepless nights… there are days where I don’t find the time to eat or do normal things, like seeing other people! However, I wouldn’t be able to do it without the help of my husband (and partner).  He takes off so much of the pressures that I wouldn’t be able to handle, like marketing! He also helps with the deliveries of special cakes that need extra attention and care. And sometimes, he helps with the baking!

Of course, when I first started, baking was a hobby that I turned to a side hustle. But as I became a full-time baker, I had to become more organized and focused, which is how I am able to manage Aya’s Baking Adventure!

What does a typical day for Aya look like?

Aya: Handling orders, replying to customers’ inquiries, checking on inventory, baking (of course!), stocking up on inventory, and coordinating orders with the driver.

What’s something people don’t know about being an at-home baker?

Aya: As convenient as it is having your own bakery at home, it’s very challenging to find the time & space to grow. That’s when I signed a lease for a central kitchen where I fully equiped and started getting all my baked goods out of.

What are some of the challenges you face as an at-home baker?

Aya: Not enough space!

What are some of the rewards from being an at-home baker?

Aya: Trying new recipes at my own comfort. Sometimes I stay very late at night and start baking at two in the morning because I got this crazy idea of a new flavor combo.

What does competing in this saturated market mean to you?

Aya: There is always room for new ideas. Competing should be with yourself, not with others.

What was the biggest order you worked on?

Aya: Al-Bayan Bilingual School (BBS) was hosting a back-to-school event. My cousin who worked at BBS asked if I would be willing to provide 500 mini macaron bottles (10,000 mini macarons in total!) to be given as giveaways for BBS staff. Even though it was too much to handle myself, it was such a joyful and therapeutic experience for me, especially since it came after I lost my mom. It gave me the drive to continue.

What was the most challenging order?

Aya: The Taj Mahal & Kuwait Towers Cakaron. This order was requested by the UAE Embassy in Kuwait… it put a lot of pressure on me, personally.

What was the most memorable order?

Aya: My cousins wanted something really special to celebrate their eldest sister’s birthday. They wanted a cake that looked like a realistic book–I took on the project and the design alone took around 2 weeks to finalize. Every element on the cake was to be edible… from the teacup,

to the needle and strings, to the picture of my cousin’s favorite canvas she worked on. At one point it became too stressful… I was about to ask a professional bakery to handle the order instead. However, I am so happy I didn’t because it turned out to be a hit! Everyone loved it and couldn’t believe the amount of details a cake could have. Once I posted the content on my social media accounts, the video went viral and reached 1.3 million views on TikTok, 2.9 million views on Instagram, and 3.9 million views on YouTube!

How do you see Aya’s Baking Adventure expanding?

Aya: I see it becoming an empire of the best baked goods with the most creative designs. I envision my brand becoming a touristic landmark, a place where people travel specifically to visit and enjoy.

What advice would you give from-home bakers wanting to enter what is known to be a saturated market today?

Aya: There is always room for something new to create, even if the product existed before… you can make your own version of the same product.

You can follow Aya and her Baking Adventure on Instagram @ayasbakingadventure.

MIDDLE EASTERN SUMMER AT SOTHEBY’S LONDON

Exhibitions and events celebrating the culture of the middle east from art to jewelry, food to fashion

By bazaar Staff

This Summer, as London once again becomes a port of call for travelers the world over, Sotheby’s is bringing a taste of the Middle East to New Bond Street. Each of Sotheby’s London galleries will play host to an aspect of Middle Eastern culture, with something for everyone to enjoy in an almost month- long multi-faceted group of exhibitions, accompanied by a series of public events.

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

On view are over 50 artworks that span 50 years of modern visual art in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including paintings, sculptures, and installations,

curated in collaboration with Qaswra Hafez, the founder of Hafez Gallery in Jeddah. Also featured are 60 exceptional jewelry creations, curated by A2Z Advisory Bahrain, that explore the influence of the Eastern world on jewelry design. This selection includes phenomenal colored gemstones and diamonds, iconic pieces from leading maisons, and contemporary jewels by today’s top designers. The exhibition also delves into the rich calligraphic tradition of the Islamic world, showcasing important leaves from religious and secular manuscripts that illustrate the evolution of calligraphic arts from the 8th to the 21st century. Additionally, five limited-edition handbags designed by HRH Princess Nourah Al Faisal, inspired by Saudi cultural heritage, are on display. Created in collaboration with Asprey and Princess Al Faisal’s brand Nuun, each handbag pays homage to the five major regions of the Kingdom through bold designs that celebrate their diversity and

beauty. Princess Al Faisal, who is also CEO of Art of Heritage, is dedicated to safeguarding the Kingdom’s treasured artifacts and traditional crafts.

Accompanying the art and objects displayed will be a series of events aimed at immersing visitors in the rich history of the Middle East, including panel discussions and gallery tours.

Moving from visual arts onto culinary delights, Sotheby’s Café offering will also get a makeover, in homage to the region’s café culture.

The title of the exhibition, Hafla, is the Arabic word for celebration, but goes beyond the English definition – denoting the celebration of something that is truly deserving of special care and attention. This theme sits at the heart of each element of the month.

Further details and partners to be announced in due course on www.sothebys.com/Hafla.

LUMINA

Shining a light on life’s darkest challenges with music

By Social Culture Club

In this exclusive interview with Social Culture Club, the members of Lumina share the dynamic journey of their band’s formation and evolution within Kuwait’s local music scene, revealing the intricate blend of influences that shape their music and ethos. As they discuss their journey from a casual music club gathering to becoming voices of a musical revolution, Lumina offers a glimpse into the creative dynamics and collective ambitions that propel them forward.

What inspired you to pursue music, and how did you become a member of Lumina?

Mando (Guitarist): My mother was a music teacher, and everyone in my family plays an instrument. I started with the piano and then moved on to the guitar, acquiring my first one along with an amp for $10 from a friend. Since November 2019, I’ve been playing for about six hours every day. Later, I joined the ACM music club and eventually started the band.

Latti (Singer): My music journey began a few years ago at a convention when my cousin entered me in a karaoke competition. As a shy 17-year-old, I was pushed out of my comfort zone and won first place. This led to an invitation

from the ACM music club, where I became a seasonal singer. I constantly battled inherited fears that suppressed my talent until I met Lumina. With them, I found a home among people who shared my background and passions, freeing me from self-made obstacles. In January, I used skydiving to cleanse myself of what was holding me back, and from that moment, I was determined to give my all to the world. An eclectic artist, I dabble in various mediums, including graphic design, poetry, painting, and art direction, often using myself as my own muse. My mother, aunts, and even my grandmother used to sing and chant when I was little, but they never had the chance to showcase their talents because their generation wasn’t as accepting. I sing to honor all the women who couldn’t express their voices. It’s time we break the system.

Codos (Producer and Bassist): I remember my mother scatting to Fayrouz and my father trying to teach me the Oud, but my passion always leaned towards Western music. I started learning to produce music at a young age, exploring various genres and bands before my heart settled with Lumina and my new project, TOE.

Fawaz (Drummer): Influenced by my mother, who played the piano and sang, I began playing music on her piano, inspired by the video games I played. I’ve always admired drummers, especially from the cover videos my father showed me as a kid. I first played a drum set at about seven years old, but didn’t play again for years as the set wasn’t mine. After much trial and error, I convinced my dad to buy me a guitar and later a drum set. Once I had my own instruments, I practiced for over five hours daily until I lost my practice space. I then focused on guitar, building my skills. Eventually, I soundproofed a small kitchen to resume drumming. After 3-4 years, I met Mando at the AUK rehearsal room a few months before our first performance, and now we’re here!

Aziz (Keys): I’ve been passionate about music from a young age, and mastering an instrument was always on my bucket list. After considering many options, I chose the keyboard for its accessibility, versatility, and challenge. I got my first keyboard in 2021 after finishing high school and practiced for about five hours daily. Then I joined ACM, majored in marketing, and met my future bandmates in the music club. I started experimenting with music production and became fairly good at it, releasing a song under the name “Agent Oranges.” When Mando started a band, I joined as their keyboardist and producer.

Ez (Guitarist): My mother’s side of the family had a talent for music, and I was fascinated by her ability to play the piano by ear and recreate music. I’ve wanted to learn the electric guitar since elementary school due to my exposure to the alternative scene. My dad bought me an acoustic guitar at 10, and I later purchased my first electric guitar with my college money. Through my experiences in the music club, I found people who shared my dream. Working with Mando inspired me to not only play the songs I liked but also improve my guitar skills and take it seriously. The rest is history.

How was your band formed, and when did you perform your first gig?

Lumina: It started with Mando, EZ, and Aziz, who met in the ACM music club. Later, Latti, Codos, and Fawaz joined us by fate, with synchronicities bringing us together. We are all driven by our passion for music and want to encourage others to express themselves through music or art, regardless of societal views. We remain true to ourselves, and that authenticity is what makes us shine. Mando: We all met at the ACM music club. I wanted to form a band, so we got together and made it happen in 2023, just two weeks before our first gig at AUK. Initially, we were a heavy metal band under a different name, but we eventually chose the name Lumina and transitioned to alternative metal. We performed both a cover and an original song at that first performance.

Ez: I used to be in the ACM music club, where I met many talented people. Mando and I discovered we had similar musical tastes and practiced songs we both enjoyed. His talent and company during practice were impressive, so I joined his band, “Usurpia,” as a vocalist, even though singing isn’t my strong suit. Aziz, brilliant with his solo work, always had parts missing, so I invited my best friend Latti, whose raw and powerful voice was perfect for the band. At the end of Art Scene’s open mic, Latti and I performed “Desire,” impressing Areej, the founder of Art Scene. I brought Mando to my university for comfortable practice, and while searching for a drummer, we met Hussein at music therapy, who invited us to perform at his concert at AUK. Mando later found an exceptional drummer, and after listening to his recordings, we invited Fawaz and Codos who agreed to join.

Can you explain the meaning and story behind your band’s name?

Mando: “Lumina” means “Bright Light” in Latin, which embodies the concept of our band. We aim to illuminate the challenges and darkness faced both individually and collectively within society. For instance, one of our songs addresses addiction, and we are developing more songs that tackle similar issues. We confront topics that others may avoid, setting us apart. What better way to address these challenges than through the mediums of art and light?

What challenges do you face as an alternative metal band performing in English in Kuwait?

Lumina: Rather than viewing it as a challenge, we see it as an opportunity to drive change and spearhead a musical revolution in Kuwait. There is a significant, and growing, audience for alternative metal performed in English— far larger than many might assume, and it continues to expand with each new generation. This burgeoning scene presents a viable business opportunity for investors, similar to trends observed in neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It’s an emerging market ripe for exploration, and many are beginning to recognize and capitalize on this potential.

Are you open to opportunities and offers from KSA or UAE?

Lumina: We are currently focused on establishing ourselves here in Kuwait, our home country, of which we are very proud. However, we are certainly open to opportunities from KSA and UAE. Touring is an integral part of our strategy as a band, and we are enthusiastic about reaching audiences across the region.

What is the greatest reward of being part of Lumina and performing your music?

Lumina: The greatest reward of being in Lumina and doing what we do is the profound connection we experience with our music. It’s about feeling completely and utterly alive, both on stage and off. This intense engagement with our art transforms every performance into a vivid, exhilarating experience.

Fawaz: We’ve all been playing music for years. Personally, I rarely write original music because I’m so fascinated by what already exists in the world of music. Coming together as a band allows me to use my drum and guitar knowledge, while Wahab, Latti, and Ez complete the puzzle by writing the lyrics. Together, we create new songs that didn’t exist before, blending our individual ideas and the diverse genres of music each of us enjoys.

How do you organize and manage your band’s activities?

Latti and Ez: We manage ourselves through a democratic approach. Whenever an opportunity arises, we vote on it as a band—it’s as simple as that. Collaboration is key to our operations; for instance, Ez takes on the task of designing our merchandise. Each member contributes their skills to support the group. We also maintain a regular schedule, meeting every Sunday and Tuesday at the studio to practice for gigs and produce new songs. Additionally, we have structured our ambitions into short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals to guide our progress and ensure we stay aligned as a team.

Why do you believe many musicians struggle to achieve success?

Lumina: The main issue isn’t marketing or external factors; it’s often about the goals they set. We aren’t driven by a desire for fame; our aspirations transcend that. Many struggling musicians tend to work in isolation, reluctant to collaborate. In contrast, our success stems from a collective effort. We operate as a cohesive group of remarkable individuals, and this teamwork is why we have achieved and will continue to achieve remarkable things.

Where do you envision yourself and the band in five years?

Lumina: At the top of the billboards, touring around the world

What advice would you give to those who wish to pursue their passion like you?

Lumina: Embrace the struggles you encounter; they’re a natural part of the journey. Instead of fighting the world, focus on yourself and your goals. You don’t need a miracle to succeed—what’s essential is your undivided focus and dedication. Work diligently, persevere through challenges, and stay true to who you are. It’s normal to feel fear, but don’t let that stop you. Move forward, even if you’re afraid.

Along the way, you’ll find people who support and believe in your vision, helping to turn your dreams into reality. Don’t be constrained by societal expectations. Be authentically yourself, and watch as things begin to fall into place. Remember, you’ll always face criticism regardless of your choices, so you might as well pursue what you love.

Follow Lumina on Instagram at @thebandlumina to stay updated on their latest music and upcoming live performances. Don’t miss their new song, “Leviathan.” Photography by @thes3od and @tings.jpeg.

CELEBRATING ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL GROUP OF SUMMER INTERNS AT ALSHAYA

The 18th Annual Summer Internship for Kuwaiti Students at Alshaya Group in Collaboration with the Public Authority of Manpower (PAM) Successfully Concludes

By bazaar Staff

In line with its commitment to support youth across the region, Alshaya Group, in association with the Public Authority of Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait, recognized around 56 Kuwaiti students who successfully completed their summer internship at the company.

The one-month program that ran for four weeks from 30th June to 25th July, witnessed the participation of young students who received training at popular brands across various locations, including Starbucks, H&M, KidZania, TekZone, MAC, American Eagle, COS, Pinkberry, Victoria’s Secret, The Cheesecake Factory, The Body Shop, Claire’s, Disney, Harvey Nichols and Monki.

Each of the Kuwaiti interns participated in an immersive learning and experiential journey that included hands-on professional training and intensive insight into all aspects of store operations, including sales, promotions, customer service, merchandising and stock management – the ideal preparation for those interested in a career in retail. The programme concluded with a graduation ceremony at Burj Alshaya where the interns were presented with Certificates of Completion.

“Spending this summer as an intern at Starbucks was an irreplaceable experience,” shared Lin Abdallah Almagaham “I feel confident I brought value to my team of professionals, who also shared their knowledge with me openly. Everything I worked on was part of something bigger but just as crucial to the process, which was motivating and exciting to witness. I felt very welcomed since day one, not only were the coworkers with whom I worked fantastic, but the supervisors also regularly checked in to continue building our relationship.”

Speaking about the programme Bashir Mazraani–Regional People Director, Alshaya Group said: “At Alshaya, we are dedicated to nurturing youth within the framework of our integrated development programs, providing invaluable opportunities for young nationals to immerse themselves in the dynamic retail sector. Since 2007, our partnership with PAM has been instrumental in providing internships that equip future leaders. We look forward to our continued partnership in aim to cultivate a thriving work culture in the private sector, particularly the retail industry and inspire a new generation of Kuwaiti professionals.”

“Our partnership with Alshaya Group opens doors for young people to explore the dynamic world of

retail. By gaining firsthand experience, they develop essential skills and build a strong foundation for their future,” said Altaf Al Saeed - Field Training Supervisor for Manpower Affairs.

Every year, Alshaya collaborates with the Public Authority of Manpower to offer retail internships to local students. These programs complement university education with practical experience, fostering future retail professionals.

Learn more about Alshaya Group at www.alshaya.com. Follow Alshaya on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

HEART OF THE MATTER WITH DR. AHMAD ALSHATTI

A conversation about heart health

By bazaar Staff

Your heart is about the size of your fist, and on average it beats about 100,000 times a day. We go about our day without considering that this organ is keeping us alive, until it pounds faster or skips a beat. We spoke to Doctor Ahmad Alshatti, Consultant of Internal Medicine and Structural Interventional Cardiology at Taiba Hospital to learn more about heart health and what we can do to protect it.

Dr. Ahmad is the fourth of seven siblings, it gave him a strong sense of family and responsibility growing up. Today, he’s a happily married father of four wonderful children, which keeps him grounded and constantly striving towards learning and growing.

“I picked medicine as a career very early on when I was a teenager. The idea of both helping people and answer complex puzzles fits well in my career. My passion for cardiology grew during my medical studies, as it allowed me to combine the analytical thinking of internal medicine, the diagnostic skills of radiology, and the hands-on expertise of surgery,” he explains.

As a cardiologist, he sees two types of patients; patients who are already diagnosed with a heart disease and patients who visit for investigative checkups. For previously diagnoses patients, they are routinely monitored to make sure that their condition is controlled and to be able to intervene before things escalate. For individuals who don’t have a diagnosis or symptoms yet are risk assessed and given the necessary tests including blood tests, stress testing and cardiograms. The Doctor can then provide a plan.

It turns out that a lot what we think is true about heart disease is untrue, Dr. Ahmad helped clear up some common misconceptions which could lead to delayed diagnosis or improper care.

Heart attacks always have obvious symptoms: Many believe heart attacks always come with intense chest pain, but some heart attacks can be “silent,” with mild symptoms or even none.

Heart disease only affects the elderly: People often think heart disease is just for older adults, but it can occur in younger people, especially with poor lifestyle habits or genetic factors.

If you have no symptoms, your heart is healthy: Many heart conditions, like high blood pressure or early-stage coronary artery disease, may show no symptoms until they become serious.

Cholesterol from food directly causes heart disease: While diet impacts cholesterol, other factors like genetics and overall lifestyle are equally important in heart disease risk.

Exercise is bad for people with heart conditions: In many cases, controlled and supervised exercise is recommended to strengthen the heart and improve cardiovascular health.

While anyone can develop heart disease there are some factors that can increase your risk such as aging, being male, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and smoking. While we can’t stop getting older, we can encourage smokers to quit and try to include more physical activity into our daily lives.

Luckily for us, advancements made in cardiology and treatment options have been huge in the past few years. In term of diagnostics the use of wearables has become approved as a way to monitor the heart rhythm and to record certain abnormalities. The quality of cardiac CT scans has improved, and physicians are able to obtain great images with little or no preposition.

As for therapeutic improvement, many new medications were released for heart failure which can improve symptoms, lower admission rates and mortality which is a huge move forward.

Cardiac surgeries that used to be performed with an open chest technique have been replaced with catheter based therapies. This has helped treat more patients who were not candidates for surgery in the past as well as improve patient quality of care post the procedure.

Dr. Ahmad gave us some practical tips to help improve heart health that you can take today:

Increase Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (walking, cycling, swimming) most days of the week.

Eat a Heart Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like olive oil and nuts). Limit salt, sugar, and processed foods.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, avoiding sugary drinks and excessive caffeine.

Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress levels.

Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Work towards a healthy weight through diet and exercise to lower heart disease risks.

Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regularly check these levels and consult your doctor if they’re high.

Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, as poor sleep can increase heart disease risks.

Limit Sitting Time: Break up long periods of sitting with short walks or stretches to keep blood circulation active.

Cardiac health is an investment we make early in life, but it is never too late to start now.

Taiba Hospital is located in Sabah Al Salem, off of route 30 on Road 3. Call them 24 hours at 180 80 88. For updates and information, visit the website taibahospital.com, and follow them on Instagram @taibahospital.

WHY LEADERS SHOULDN’T FOCUS ON CREATING A CORPORATE CULTURE

and what they should build instead

By Harvey Deutschendorf

Leaders often preach about the importance of building a healthy company culture.  Understandably, companies have historically mainly been primarily in building cultures that define and promote their corporation’s values, norms, and beliefs. But while workplace culture is important, it does not ensure that the diverse needs of its members are taken into account. Instead, the typical purpose of establishing a specific corporate culture is to increase fiscal outcomes and grow the organization.

Instead of trying to intentionally architect a particular corporate culture, I believe leaders should focus on building a sense of community. Building a community takes a much broader, long-term perspective, looking to ensure that its members feel safe, have a sense of belonging, and have the opportunity to develop deeper connections with the people they spend so much of their lives with.

“Community organizing and community building frameworks are some of the most effective strategies for improving and fortifying the ways people work together,” says Lauren Buckley, cofounder of The Hush Collaborative, an organizational strategy consultancy. “However, they aren’t widely applied in corporate settings.”

According to a survey by BetterUp, 69% of employees are unsatisfied with their connections at work and 43% don’t feel a sense of connection.

And according to Gallup’s 2024 Global Workplace Report, one in five employees worldwide say that they felt lonely the previous day. In my work, I explore how to combat employee loneliness while building community at work.

And while some in higher management don’t feel the need to make meaningful connections at work, research suggests they’re incorrect. “If the mandate for leaders across the board is to be data-driven, we are ignoring a very large data set that proves focusing on initiatives that improve employee experience drive and often exceed both top and bottom-line growth goals,” explains Buckley.

Here are five ways in which building a strong workplace community benefits an organization overall.

Building a sense of community within organizations helps build connections between workers. Shared experiences, getting to know one another, and discussing shared values as well as differences solidifies a sense of togetherness. This results in more collaboration, less time spent navigating conflict, and a greater sense of purpose. Community creates a broader, more solid framework for developing a cohesive workplace than culture, which is focused around the outside benefits that organizational success can provide.

Community Boosts Mental Health and Wellness

Researchers have determined that mental health and wellness are largely dependent upon having a strong sense of community and support

system that comes with it.  A feeling of being safe, accepted, and connected to each other relieves stress and feelings of insecurity that are caused by not having a sense of belonging and feeling isolated and alone. Community also increases the chances that employees will feel that they will be accepted and receive help if they reach out.

Organizations are continuously looking for ways to retain their top employees. Feelings of connection amongst employees helps them understand they are an integral part of an organization. Such people are more likely to remain within an organization, even if there are benefits to finding another job elsewhere. The sense of belonging and being part of something greater than ourselves is a strong human need. Building a strong community gives workers that sense of being part of a larger team.

One of the major struggles that organizations face is keeping good people. This becomes even more crucial when there is a competitive job market. It is during these times that the efforts that are needed to build a strong community really pay off. When staff experience a sense of community, feel safe and appreciated, they stay longer in the organization. A strong sense of community creates

emotional bonds that are difficult to recreate, and may not exist elsewhere, causing people to want to stay where they are.

Community Builds Strength in Diversity and Inclusion

Many organizations state their willingness to diversify their workforce and reap the benefits of a diverse team of people. Having a strong culture that is known for welcoming people from various groups in society acts as a strong incentive for talented people from those groups to work there. Knowing that an organization has a welcoming and supportive atmosphere will draw more diversity and talent into any organization. This creates a win, win for both the health of the organization and the individuals working in it.

“The difference between culture and community may feel nuanced, but I assure you, it is not. Culture affects change. Community drives it,” says Buckley. “As leaders, we can build strategic plans, workflows, and experiences that build real community. Ones that are fulfilling, collaborative, self-regulating, and capable of consistently exceeding financial goals.”

Photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash.

AN INIMITABLE JOURNEY

Welcome to Porsche Centre

Shuwaikh, heralding a new era of unparalleled lifestyle experiences

By bazaar Staff

In the world of luxury automobiles, the Porsche emblem is more than just a logo; it is a symbol of excellence, heritage, and innovation. With the unveiling of Porsche Centre Shuwaikh by Behbehani Motors Company, this iconic emblem now heralds a new era—a lifestyle of distinction that transcends automotive excellence. Porsche Centre Kuwait introduces a revolutionary showroom experience in the heart of the country that not only showcases the pinnacle of Porsche’s engineering but also offers an immersive journey through the brand’s storied past and visionary future.

Agency: bazaar Studios @bazaar.studios

Client: Porsche Centre Kuwait @porschecentrekuwait

Concept Creation and Production: BYFRR @thebyffrco

Photographer: Abdullah Al Failakawi @a.failakawi

Model: Haneen @thatsohaneen

The entrance itself sets the tone—a blend of architectural grandeur and technological innovation, inviting customers into a world where the Porsche spirit thrives. The expansive 35,450-square-meter Porsche Centre Shuwaikh arrives as a state-of-the-art facility and is spread across six floors, redefining the automotive retail experience, inviting customers into a world where every detail is a testament to Porsche’s commitment to innovation and customer excellence.

The main showroom, covering 2,800 square meters, serves as the heart of this experience. Here, Porsche’s diverse lineup of vehicles is displayed with an artistry that highlights each model’s unique character, from cutting-edge E-mobility solutions to timeless sports cars and versatile SUVs. The environment exudes an aura of exclusivity, yet remains accessible to those who appreciate the finer things in life.

As customers navigate through Porsche Centre Shuwaikh, they are also introduced to the brand’s forwardthinking approach to sustainability. The facility’s commitment to green technology is evident in its use of water recycling systems and solar panels, underscoring Porsche’s dedication to a sustainable future. Electric vehicle chargers, strategically placed throughout the center, signal Porsche’s leadership in the transition to cleaner, more efficient mobility solutions.

Porsche Centre Kuwait serves as a harbinger of a greener future—one where innovation and sustainability coexist to create a truly distinguished lifestyle experience in the automotive world. This is not just a nod to the future of the automotive industry; it is a definitive step toward leading it.

As customers move deeper into the facility, they encounter the service reception area—a spacious 3,600-square-meter space that is designed to ensure a seamless transition from admiring Porsche’s engineering marvels to experiencing the meticulous care they require. This area is a testament to Porsche’s commitment to customer excellence, where every interaction is tailored to the individual needs of the client.

The workshop, a sprawling 5,900-square-meter area, is the epitome of Porsche’s dedication to precision and innovation. Equipped with 34 Standard Work Bays, including 12 Diagnostic bays, 6 direct dialogue bays, and 9 quick service bays as well. in the inspection station, the workshop is designed to provide the highest levels of diagnostic accuracy. This is where Porsche’s skilled technicians apply their expertise to maintain each vehicle to the brand’s exacting standards. Specialized bays dedicated to different types of metalwork—whether aluminum or steel—underscore Porsche’s attention to detail, ensuring that every repair or service is conducted with the utmost care.

The experience at Porsche Centre Shuwaikh is not confined to the present. Delve into the rich history of the brand, exploring the roots of the Porsche brand and its evolution over time by visiting The Classic Porsche Cars Collection. Housed in an 850-square-meter exhibition space, offers a unique glimpse into the brand’s past. This collection is a tribute to the brand’s rich history, showcasing rare and special vehicles that have been carefully curated by the Behbehani family over the past 60 years. Through a blend of physical exhibits and digital technology, visitors are invited to journey through Porsche’s storied past, experiencing the evolution of a brand that continues to defy time.

The dedication to preserving Porsche’s heritage is further exemplified by the Porsche Heritage Service Centre, a specialized facility within the complex. Here, classic Porsche vehicles are treated with the same level of care and precision as their modern counterparts, ensuring that the legacy of these iconic cars continues to thrive.

For those who wish to take the Porsche lifestyle beyond the road, the Mezzanine floor offers a dedicated Porsche Lifestyle Corner. Here, enthusiasts can explore a curated selection of Porsche-branded merchandise and accessories that embody the sophistication and exclusivity of the brand. From stylish apparel to unique collectibles, every item is a reflection of the Porsche ethos—a lifestyle of distinction that extends far beyond the drive.

To find out how you can experience automotive excellence at a new level, follow @Porschecentrekuwait.

GET THINGS DONE

This dead-simple, to-do app takes minimalism to the max

By JR Raphael

I’ll admit it: I’m addicted to planning. It’s a sick sort of psychosis, I know. But oh, it be true: For whatever reason, I take a certain pinch of perverse pleasure in finding interesting new ways to map out my days and stay on top of my various tasks and obligations.

Hey, if there’s one good way to procrastinate actually doing stuff, it’s planning out how much stuff you’re gonna do!

Today’s tool is all about trying to fix that mindset—to eliminate all the counterproductive complexity around planning and make it as focused and minimal as can be. It’s an effective framework for organizing your to-do list without any frills, distractions, or unnecessary layers.

And, as an added bonus, you can relish in the sheer joy of thinking about it now instead of actually tackling that first real task.

Planning, simplified

Most to-do apps are complicated by nature. You’ve got layers upon layers of lists, priority levels, tags—all sorts of options and adjustments to obsess over. And that’s not even getting into all the AI-associated flapdoodle of the moment.

By the time everything is said and done, organizing your to-do list practically requires an item on your to-do list to accomplish.

- Today’s tool turns that type of thinking on its head. It’s a simple-as-can-be task planner with an absolutely incredible name: focus.txt.

- It’ll take you 20 seconds to figure out and

start using. It really is that simple:

1. Open the focus.txt website in any browser, on whatever device you’ve got in front of you. No downloads, no sign-ins, no hassles whatsoever.

2. Type any tasks on your mind into the #tasks section of the screen.

3. Type any notes in your noggin into the #notes section above it.

And, well—that’s pretty much it.

Focus.txt is supremely simple – by design. [Photo: focus.txt]

If you’re on a computer, you can use commands like Ctrl-B, Ctrl-I, and Ctrl-U to apply basic text formatting (bold, italics, and underlining, respectively).

On any device, you can type %date% to autoinsert the current date, %time% to auto-insert the current time, and %check% to insert a checkmark anywhere in your text.

And those are pretty much the only real “features” of note here. The entire point of focus. txt is what it doesn’t do—and that’s complicate your planning. You just open up your browser, type out what’s on your mind, and move on with your day.

The site automatically saves your info locally,

within your own browser—no syncing, no signing in, and no data collection of any sort. Your list just pops back up anytime you open the focus.txt page within that same browser.

If you want to download and save your list, you can hit the Download button in the site’s lowerright corner. It’ll then be saved as a simple plaintext file called—yup, you guessed it—focus.txt.

The site works brilliantly as a custom new tab page for your browser. (You can set it as your default home page in about seven seconds on Chrome , Edge, Firefox, or most any other browser—in both the mobile and the desktop versions.)

But mostly, it works by simply staying out of your way and allowing you to focus on your actual to-do items instead of obsessing over the organization of your to-do list.

A novel concept, even for the mushy-minded organization obsessives among us—wouldn’t ya say?!

• Focus.txt is completely web-based; you just open the site in any browser, on any device, to use it.

• It’s 100% free.

• And it stores all your info only locally—no data collection, no account creation, no privacy compromises of any sort.

WALDORF ASTORIA KUWAIT: WHERE LUXURY MEETS CELEBRATION

Tailored Events in the Heart of Kuwait for Unforgettable Moments

By bazaar Staff

Waldorf Astoria Kuwait provides the ideal setting for hosting Kuwait’s most prestigious, bespoke, and exclusive events. Boasting 2,274 square meters of event spaces and multiple meeting venues, the hotel is a top choice for business travelers and those planning special occasions.

Guests can take an advantage of the Grand Al Yasmine Ballroom, which can be divided into three sections to accommodate special events of any size. The Al Narjis Multi-Function Room offers similar flexibility, with the option to split into two rooms. Additionally, the hotel features five meeting rooms, including a Boardroom, PreFunction areas, a Show Kitchen, a Bridal Suite, Diwania, and the Library Business Center. The hotel’s dedicated team is committed to making every event an unforgettable success.

Waldorf Astoria Kuwait’s stunning decor, bespoke menu options, and personalized service provide an array of luxurious wedding packages. The hotel’s culinary team crafts unique, customized menus to suit each guest’s preferences, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Emphasizing artisanal fine dining, the chefs use locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors to create timeless cuisine. Every meal is freshly prepared and elegantly served, adding a touch of sophistication to your celebration

Function Rooms

Guests can select from the Grand Ballroom, MultiFunction Room, or Meeting Rooms, all equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology to suit any event. The meeting spaces are bathed in natural daylight, creating an inviting atmosphere, while the exclusive Ikaros Club elevates luxury with its blend of intimacy, comfort, and personalized service. With a unique and stunning banquet setting paired with extensive catering options, Waldorf Astoria Kuwait stands out as a premier venue for social events, meetings, and conferences.

Al Yasmine Grand Ballroom

The Grand Ballroom at the hotel is an exquisite choice for any special event, including the most enchanting weddings. With private access from the main driveway, this grand space is equally suited for intimate gatherings. The ballroom can be divided into three sections to accommodate a range of functions, from high-profile board meetings to elegant gala dinners and weddings. For an exclusive touch, the hotel provides a private ballroom entrance and car lift, allowing you to bring your vehicle directly into the ballroom for effortless unloading and a truly unique experience.

Your Perfect Celebration, Crafted Just for You by Waldorf Weddings

At Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, they will transform your wedding vision into an unforgettable reality with a commitment to elegance and exceptional service. The expert culinary team will create a personalized menu tailored to your preferences, ensuring a dining experience that will leave a lasting impression. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors, the chefs craft timeless, beautifully presented dishes. Experience sophistication at its finest with the stunning venue, custom menus, and dedicated service, all within a range of luxurious wedding packages designed to make every detail of your special day extraordinary.

Award-Winning Dining at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait

At Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, dining is a celebration of flavor and ambiance. Enjoy everything from elegant meals and romantic cabana dinners at Oxio to poolside refreshments and cozy café settings.

Our Mediterranean restaurant, Ava, which is awarded the Best Mediterranean Restaurant in Kuwait, brings the essence of the Mediterranean coast to your table with fresh, light cuisine from France, Italy, and Greece.

Other dining options include NYC with its Parisianinspired Peacock Alley, perfect for both sophisticated and casual gatherings, and OXIO Poolside Lounge and Bar, offering a relaxing escape with refreshing Levantine dishes amidst lush greenery.

Romance Under the Stars in a Private Cabana

Escape the city’s hustle and retreat to a charming private cabana where romance blooms under the starry sky. Picture yourself dining beneath twinkling lights, where every glance is filled with magic and every touch feels electric. Enjoy an intimate evening where the world outside disappears, leaving just you and your loved one. Make unforgettable memories that shimmer in the moonlight and stay in your hearts forever, creating a love story as timeless as the stars above.

Experience Luxury: Forbes Five-Star Spa

Retreat at Waldorf Astoria

Discover unparalleled relaxation at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait Spa, honored with the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Spa Award in its debut year. Located in the heart of Kuwait City, the spa offers state-of-the-art facilities, expert therapists, and premium treatments designed for ultimate well-being. Enjoy exclusive perks and unwind in the private lounge with a refreshing drink while anticipating your next luxurious treatment.

Give the Gift of Serenity: Waldorf Astoria Spa Gift vouchers

Give the gift of serene relaxation with a Waldorf

Astoria Spa Voucher. This thoughtful present offers an escape from the everyday, with indulgent treatments that soothe body and soul. It’s a perfect way to show your love and care, providing your loved one with an opportunity to unwind, recharge, and create lasting memories. For more information and reservations, please call +965 2477 4444, email: reservations. kuwait@waldorfastoria.com, or visit kuwait.waldorfastoria.com. Follow the hotel @WaldorfAstoriaKuwait on Instagram for the latest updates.

STEP INTO OUR NEWLY REFURBISHED RESTAURANT AT THE AVENUES - PHASE III AND EMBARK ON A CULINARY JOURNEY LIKE NO OTHER.

BEEN HACKED?

Here’s how to regain control of your personal data

By Arjun Bhatnagar

Most recently, a background-check company called Jericho Pictures, also doing business as National Public Data (NPD), has made headlines for being a part of one of the biggest data leaks in history. The personal information of nearly three billion people—including Social Security numbers, emails, addresses, phone numbers, relatives, physical addresses, and more—has made its way to the dark web.

While this is yet again another wake-up call for individuals and organizations to rethink how we share and gather personal data, it’s not the data itself that is the issue. It’s the fact that massive data aggregators like NPD are sitting on trillions, if not quadrillions, of pieces of our personal data without the guardrails in place to sufficiently keep it—or us—secure from the ever-growing sophistication of today’s hackers.

Look everywhere

With so much information in the wild, there’s a real chance your personal data from accounts and devices could be hacked, even in your “secure” work environment. Perhaps you’re already seeing suspicious bank transactions, unapproved software downloads, increased spam, outgoing phone calls you didn’t make, or two-way authentications you didn’t request. If so, take immediate steps to start minimizing the damage and regain control of your personal information with the following actions:

Update

Immediately replace passwords on critical accounts such as Gmail, Apple, banking, and travel with strong alternatives. These don’t have to be complicated, but should be long and unique to each account. Ensure operating systems are updated to minimize vulnerabilities and maximize security while editing account recovery options for added protection.

Report

Warn those around you who may be impacted by the hack, such as friends, family, and colleagues, that your email or other personal information has been compromised and not to respond to suspicious activities. For financial concerns, let your bank or credit card provider know. Close jeopardized accounts and freeze your credit activity for a few months (if not permanently) until you’re looking to open a new credit card or utilize a credit score. Don’t forget to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help fight any fraudulent charges.

Scan

Use anti-virus or anti-malware programs to scan and remove any malicious software that may have been installed on your devices. Run a credit check to ensure your personal data isn’t used to secure credit cards or large purchases. Then regularly check for unauthorized activity and repeat the above steps if any is found.

Secure

Make your devices and systems less susceptible to hacking by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). Add a password to your home router and consider setting up a guest Wi-Fi to minimize your risk. In addition, find out where your personal data exists publicly and start to remove access to it.

Continue taking proactive measures

Unfortunately, until legislation, corporations, and new technologies make privacy a priority, breaches will continue. Our data will be hacked, leaked to the highest bidder and, most likely, used against us. So it is up to us to take steps to mitigate the risk data breaches cause and to protect ourselves and our families from the personal, financial, and professional fallout they bring.

If you’ve avoided being hacked up to this point, consider taking proactive measures to stay ahead of the nightmare and inevitable next breach.

Start by sharing less.

• Think twice before you give the new restaurant or store your telephone or email.

• Ask yourself if it is necessary, then get comfortable with saying “no.”

• Read privacy policies.

• Object to cookies.

• Don’t agree to the collection of your data when given the chance.

Consider using password managers, VPNs, and alternative digital identities in place of your real details. This will protect your digital footprint and improve your privacy instantly by poisoning the well of personal data being collected on you by data brokers and aggregators.

Doing this, while deleting the information that is already out there, will make your data indecipherable and untraceable to you over time.

If you want to take it a step further, invest in identity-theft insurance to ensure you’re covered if your data becomes compromised.

A privacy-first mindset can be your solution to finding comfort in an increasingly insecure world. Read the fine print. Make sure you’re aware of how your data is being used and take the time to build simple, new habits that can help mitigate the risks for you and your family.

Photo by Kasia Derenda on Unsplash.

WHERE ARE ALL THE ARTISTS?

Rebuilding the Art Scene

By bazaar Staff

“Circles are the revolution.” With tongue firmly in cheek, these words are proudly projected onto the main screen in the last gathering of the season for the Art Scene community. Cleverly referred to as a NOT PARTY in circulars to throw off the ’rents and other disapproving authority figures, this is a celebratory hang-out designed to appreciate the participants who take the time to engage with Art Scene circles, shows, and sessions. bazaar is here to meet the minds behind the marvelous Art Scene which has been forming and reforming the creative spaces available to local artists, writers, musicians, entertainers, and filmmakers for the last year. It’s a loud, fun, and social gathering and so to glean any real insight from the organizers we agree to an online interview instead and leave the creative kids to it.

It’s unsurprising that Areej Saleh and Mohammad Husnain (Huss) are the first two to join our Zoom meeting as one or other of them, usually both, can be seen running around Art Scene events, prepping, keeping on top of things and maybe looking a little stressed at times, but always happy and exhausted by the end.

Areej and Huss laugh as they remember how they met, describing their days together a decade ago at the now-defunct (dead?) Kuwait Poets’ Society (KPS). “When we were still young and angsty,” says twenty-five-year-old Areej. Still young.

Still angsty. Returning to Kuwait from university in the States, and after Corona, Areej couldn’t find the creative events that used to be such a big part of Kuwait life. She reached out to Huss - he used to be the events organizer for KPS - and they endeavored to organize together along with Asad Ayaz and Khizar Khalil.

What started with Open Medium Hangouts of around 10 people in an art studio or on a beach, then grew into Art Scene’s first Open Mic which highlighted the increasing demand for more of these spaces. “Ever since then we’ve been growing and

expanding,” Areej continues. And they have been gathering loyal supporters along the way. Mohamed Saleh joined as an organizer after the first Open Mic. He explains, “I found the space and the people that I was looking for since I was a kid.” Now, as Art Scene’s Program Manager, Mohamed’s main responsibility is, “...to execute the vision of events and to monitor the overall progress in terms of the goals of the organization.” What he does is help to put creatives together as a community where, “They can have their own initiatives and ideas that grow the art scene in Kuwait,” he concludes.

Hawraa Khalfan, Art Scene’s Circles Manager, tells of her previous experience of organizing a community-based writing club similar to KPS which is where Areej became aware of Hawraa’s efforts. Areej asked her to be a facilitator for Art Scene. “How we find facilitators [now], based on my experience, is we find people who are very motivated about their craft, but not just that, they want to find their people in the craft too.”

This is where Areej interrupts saying that Muhamed has the most descriptive word for the kind of creatives that they are looking for, “Hungry” is the word. “This is the only word that I can use to describe it,” says Mohamed. He stresses with great emphasis, “They want this just like we do.” Mohamed’s first Open Mic experience with Art Scene was revelatory, and he made his mind up immediately that he wanted to stay and be a part of it.

After Open Mics came Circles; more in-depth, themed gatherings. Music Circles have been facilitated by Nasser Qabazard, Visual Circles by Saja Alsaadoun, and the Writing Circles facilitated by Hawraa who, “ Volunteered to do that and fix everything else,” jokes Areej, who further states, “We started as ‘where are all the artists’, then we found the artists and then we said ‘how do we keep the artists in’ and ‘how do we make the artists feel better about their art’?” A regular attendee of Music Circles, Abdullah Khuraibet a talented, young musician and composer says, “[What makes Art Scene] special is, it’s an opportunity for like-minded people to gather.” As so many participants express to bazaar, here is where they have finally discovered their community and space; within Art Scene projects and initiatives. Art Scene itself must be seen as invaluable, especially for those young artists now trying to find themselves within the local creative community.

How can Art Scene commodify and monetize this community creation and stay true to art? Does survival mean selling out? Areej has been putting a lot of thought into this lately and muses, “I was just trying to set up a space where people could express but I think most of it is realizing that as much energy as you want to put in, you’re able to ask people for it back and you don’t have to sit there and act like art is such a big sacrifice and you have to give it from your soul without ever taking anything back. It doesn’t have to be that way.” Maintaining the community takes funding, and building a strong foundation and infrastructure with a network that can hold organizational memory with longevity doesn’t come for free. It requires program development, attracting more facilitators, providing resources, and growing the community so that eventually, the artists turn around and want to give right back to up-andcoming creatives. The build can be exponential if done right, even though – from bazaar experience, organizing creatives can be a little like herding cats. It’s aspirational and inspiring to meet a team of people who know their worth and can pass on this confidence to a new generation. Let them build their own platform to be seen, heard, and taken seriously as a vital part of society.

talks fondly about the family support that was her experience, “The reason that I’m still a writer is my dad. I was this little kid with a notebook writing poetry about love I’ve never felt…and my dad was like, ‘This is amazing. I’m going to show it to my colleagues in the English department.’ I’m sure he embarrassed himself but it was still sweet”. However she also goes on to express that, “There is this… dynamic…which is we are taught or socialized into thinking that art is not a way to make money,” further going on to describe her father still expressing, “You should be an English teacher” which, although supportive, is not quite the same as embracing the idea of Hawraa as a writer.

Areej quite rightly interjects to clarify, “I think it’s kind of important for us to differentiate the spheres that we’re working in because there is money in Arabic pop and folk music and theater has been really well funded in Kuwait for a long time. There is money in different spaces.” The group then discusses how people have had to leave Kuwait and develop elsewhere in order to be able to then come back and be lauded as fully polished creatives, designers, and artists etc. “There’s a need for spaces for people to be able to just play and experiment,” urges Areej, “I think it’s really just a lack of seeing things as possible, and then as soon as you are shown, or as soon as people who can fund these things are shown [then they realize] this is possible.” Art Scene shows inexperienced, hungry artists that you can live

your art in Kuwait. bazaar reached out to @neptunic. photography published to @artscenekw on Instagram and immediately Nusaybah Al-Menaii responded by volunteering, “I can do a testimony for how great Art Scene is! Genuinely I can’t express how much I love that community!” Artists across myriad fields are finding they are a tribe, and interacting with each other can lead (and is leading to) exciting collaborations and a strong network.

Art Scene makes it look easy. So far they have produced and completed four Music Circles, five Writing Circles, two Comedy Shows, eight Open Medium Hangouts, seven Open Mics, and three Festivals. But it’s not that easy. Huss regales the group with stories of how events have been challenging. “Two days before [a rooftop open mic] we realized it was going to rain, and we had to shift from the rooftop to an auditorium. [Only after] we did the entire setup, did we realize that the AC was not working.” There may be a metaphor in there somewhere. Even when there is AC sometimes Art Scene gatherings have been so well-attended that the venue is bursting at the seams. Huss continues, “I believe it was the second open mic in Better Books and we were not expecting it to get really crammed…[but with one hundred people] it got so hot, even with the fans, that at the end, our last resort was…handing out ice cream to people!” A creative solution to a social need. Iconic. This is what Art Scene is all about.

Hawraa

Photography Nusaybah Al-Menaii

TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE

How would your mother describe you in one word?

MH: Super-Genius

AS: Sensitive

MS: Chaotic

HK: Well-behaved

How would you describe your mother in one word?

MH: Warmth

AS: Shining

MS: Gentle

HK: Funny

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?

MH: Why do you spend your money recklessly?

AS: What are you thinking about?

MS: Why are you drinking water so much?

HK: Do you live in tents [in Kuwait]?

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

MH: Pulled off a show at Kuwait Times HQ in 3 Days

AS: Buy a food truck and start my own coffee business.

MS: Went to the mountains and stayed for two days

HK: Shaved half my head

What is your theme song?

MH: If I was your Vampire - Marilyn Manson

AS: Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper

MS: By Design - Jacob Banks

HK: Mockingbird - Eminem

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

MH: Nirvana

AS: A word for pre-emptive nostalgia, when you know you’re creating core memories.

MS: ETC = End of Thinking Capacity

HK: Meh

Where would you like to live?

MH: Thailand

AS: Everywhere, for a little while

MS: Vienna

HK: I’m happy in Kuwait

What is your dream retirement location?

MH: Norway

AS: Somewhere with a lot of green, by a body of water, where I can write on a balcony under a tree

MS: Los Angeles

HK: A tiny beach house in Asia somewhere with my husband

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

MH: Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place - Kurt Vonnegut

AS: There is always some madness in love, but there is also always some reason in madnessFriedrich Nietzsche

MS: Ready is not a feeling, it is a decisionAndrew Gerstner

HK: “To be or not to be, that is the question” - by Hamlet, in Hamlet, written by Shakespeare

Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life?

MH: Wolf

AS: A fox, perky and sly and focused

MS: Horse

HK: A bear. I like cuddles.

Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it?

MH: The Simplicity

AS: The absolute freedom to explore and create without self-inflicted criticism.

MS: I miss the spontaneous plans and how we were all just living in the moment

HK: My mother

Nasser Qabazard talking again by Nusaybah Al-Menaii

Abdullah Khuraibet says Art Scene hits the right note

Mohamed Saleh has his priorities

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

MH: Harris

AS: Laila

MS: Omar or Saleh

HK: Zainab

How would you describe your handshake, in one word?

MH: Firm

AS: Curious

MS: Firm

HK: Indifferent, lol

What is the toughest part of your character?

MH: Resilience

AS: I’m a tornado

MS: I’m stubborn sometimes

HK: A high sense of justice

Who is your favorite historical figure?

MH: Socrates

AS: Does my grandma count?

MS: Carl Jung

HK: Toni Morrison. I don’t know if she would be considered ‘historical’ because she only passed away a few years ago, but she is one of my deepest inspirations. The Bluest Eye was the first novel that I read that inspired some major inner child healing within me.

What in the world do you least desire?

MH: Violence

AS: More desires

MS: To own a Lamborghini

HK: Being stuck in an unfulfilling job

What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place?

MH: Kindness

AS: A little more focus on what it is we’re all doing here

MS: If we could just be a little gentler with each other and with ourselves

HK: Communication. Not in the technological aspect, obviously there’s a lot of that. But in the deep, hearty, understanding, listening and hearing someone for who they are and what made them. Communication that leads to acceptance. Communication that leads to love.

Why do you think most people who do, like you?

MH: Because I’m rational and straightforward

AS: I’m funny sometimes!

MS: I try to provide a safe space for the people around me to be themselves

HK: I’m always the Mom in the room, lol

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”

MH: …contentment within oneself

AS: …a morning alone to watch the bugs

MS: …comes from within

HK: being aligned within, through my mothering and writing

Join on Friday 13th September for “IS THIS THING ON” at Argan Bedaya. Go to @artscenekw on Instagram for more details and how to register, and this season look out for creative residencies and retreats, Art Screen, Open Mics, Field Trips & Experiences. Look out for Hawraa Khalfan’s first novel “Still Born a Woman” and for novel notifications follow @hawraawrites on Instagram. See more of Areej’s writing on @molokhiyamama and listen to Mohammed’s playlists on @themaestro.co

Image courtesy of @artscenkw on Instagram

The Art Scene fam. Image courtesy of Art Scene

Shiitake Sensations

REACHING FOR THE STARS

SpaceX astronauts will test this breakthrough equipment in risky spacewalk

By Joey Roulette

SpaceX’s attempt at the first ever private spacewalk next week will be a test of trailblazing equipment, including slim spacesuits and a cabin with no airlock, in one of the riskiest missions yet for Elon Musk’s space company.

A billionaire entrepreneur, a retired military fighter pilot and two SpaceX employees are poised to launch on Tuesday aboard a modified Crew Dragon craft, before embarking on a 20-minute spacewalk 434 miles (700 km) into space two days later.

Until now, walking into the empty expanse of space has only been attempted by government astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS), 250 miles (400 km) above Earth.

SpaceX’s five-day mission — dubbed Polaris Dawn — will swing in an oval-shaped orbit, passing as close to Earth as 190 km (118 miles) and as far as 1,400 km (870 miles), the farthest any humans will have ventured since the end of the United States’ Apollo moon program in 1972.

Crew members, including billionaire Jared Isaacman, will don SpaceX’s new, slimline spacesuits in a Crew Dragon vehicle that was modified so it can open its hatch door in the vacuum of space — an unusual process that removes the need for an airlock.

“They’re pushing the envelope in multiple ways,” retired NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman said in an interview. “They’re also going to a much higher altitude, with a more severe radiation environment than we’ve been to since Apollo.”

The mission has been bankrolled by Isaacman, the founder of electronic payment company Shift4. He has declined to say how much he has spent, but it is estimated to be over $100 million.

Joining him will be mission pilot Scott Poteet, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, and SpaceX employees Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon, both senior engineers at the company.

For SpaceX, which has pioneered cheap, reusable rockets and expensive private spaceflight, the mission is an opportunity to advance technologies that could be used on the moon and Mars.

Far outside the protective bubble of Earth’s atmosphere, the electronics and shielding on Crew Dragon and spacesuits will be tested as they pass through parts of the Van Allen belt, an area where charged particles streaming mainly from the sun can disrupt satellites’ electronics and affect human health.

“That’s an additional risk that you don’t face when you just stay in low-Earth orbit and go up to the ISS,” Reisman said.

Not a normal spacewalk

The Polaris spacewalk will take place on the

mission’s third day, but preparation will begin about 45 hours in advance.

The gumdrop-shaped Crew Dragon’s entire cabin will be depressurized and exposed to the vacuum of space. While only two of the astronauts will float outside, tethered by an oxygen line, the whole crew will depend on their spacesuits for life support.

Days before the spacewalk, the crew will begin a “pre-breathe” process to fill the cabin with pure oxygen and remove any nitrogen from the air.

Nitrogen, if present in astronauts’ bloodstreams in space, could form bubbles, block blood flow and lead to decompression sickness, known as “the bends,” as with scuba divers who return too quickly to the water’s surface.

The crew will use an ultrasound device to monitor any bubble formation, one of many tools to be used in the mission to inform dozens of scientific experiments, providing researchers a rare peek into how astronauts might fare on the moon’s surface or elsewhere in deep space.

“It gives us a very unique opportunity to test these vehicles in such a very unique environment,” said Emmanuel Urquieta, vice chair for aerospace medicine at the University of Central Florida’s internal medicine department.

While astronaut safety on NASA missions is rigorously overseen by the agency, there are no such U.S. standards or laws for spaceflight safety in private missions like Polaris.

SpaceX officials and the Polaris crew said during a Monday news conference they have planned for an array of contingency scenarios if something during the mission goes wrong, such as an oxygen leak or failure to reseal the hatch door, but they did not detail what those were.

Reisman said he knows the Polaris crew and believes they are prepared to handle any unexpected mishaps.

“But there’s not a lot of room for error,” he said.

Photo by Laurenz Heymann on Unsplash.

MEET THE IKEA® MAVINN COLLECTION: VIBRANT PRODUCTS THAT CREATE JOBS

Handicraft with beauty and brains

By bazaar Staff

If we wanted to describe what kind of aesthetic or style we want in our home, then the IKEA MÄVINN collection hits all of it all at once. Beautiful pieces, sustainable, harmonious colors and made by artisans from all over the globe. Not just any artisans, mind you, the collection is made by various social enterprises that help combat poverty by empowering the craftspeople and creating jobs for them. It’s like visiting a local craft market, but instead IKEA has provided a platform for people who might not otherwise be able to access this market.

MÄVINN cushion cover

100% cotton. L40, W58 cm. Striped multicolor.

KD4.950

MÄVINN throw

100% cotton. L170, W110 cm. Striped multicolor.

KD9.950

MÄVINN basket

100% jute. Ø31, H29 cm

KD7.950

MÄVINN bath robe

100% cotton. Striped multicolor.

KD7.950

It’s been 12 years since IKEA first started collaborating with social businesses around the world, and the collaboration is still going strong today. Together, they develop unique, handmade products designed to create jobs for women and marginalized groups in regions where it’s most needed. As of today, the partnerships continue to generate work for 11,000 people.

This time, five social businesses were part of the making of the MÄVINN collection. From India, Rangsutra’s rural women artisans create handcrafted, woven and hand-embroidered textiles while expert women preserve traditional hand weaving techniques at SPUN, and Ramesh Flowers makes use of organic materials like nutshell, bark, and more to create beautiful eco-friendly floral and potpourri products. Classical Handmade Products in Bangladesh has also taken the sustainable route where handmade products are made using only garment waste and natural fibers such as jute and banana fiber. A little closer to home, the Jordan River Foundation has been helping create jobs and increase integration between women refugees and local women artisans by turning to traditional handicraft skills.

While they all create different products, they have mostly common goals that include providing the creators from marginalized or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with fair wages, training and sustainable livelihoods while protecting the environment, reducing waste, promoting sustainability and preserving traditional crafts.

By preserving age-old techniques like weaving, embroidery, and natural dyeing, these organizations support the artisans’ economic independence and ensure the continuation of cultural heritage. The collaboration with IKEA allows these social enterprises to reach a global market, amplifying their impact and helping to create positive social change through beautifully handcrafted products.

It is obvious that much love and skill have gone into the making of the MÄVINN collection. Each and every item in the collection is either woven, braided or embroidered by hand. The IKEA designers envisioned MÄVINN to be inspired by traditional, buzzing crafts markets. While we feel that every product in the collection has its own expression and handpicked feel, the vibrant colors and recurring patterns brings the entire collection together.

The collection itself is a testament to the beauty that human hands have always been able to create. They feel personal and unique, the slight variations in each MÄVINN makes them feel extra special. All products are made of cotton or jute, sourced where the social businesses operate.

Every product results from a close collaboration between IKEA, the artisans and the social businesses and embodies the idea behind the collection: creating jobs and standout handcrafted items at a great price by utilizing everyone’s skills.

MÄVINN bag

83% jute, 17% cotton. L42, W18, H5 cm. Holds 3.4l. Handmade/ striped natural

KD6.950

MÄVINN storage basket

100% jute. Ø36, H44 cm. Striped multicolour

KD9.950

MÄVINN rug

100% jute. Ø85cm. Flower-shaped natural

KD9.950

MÄVINN basket

100% jute. W38, D30, H18 cm. Black/natural

KD6.950

The collection includes a diverse range of products such as baskets, bags, rugs, cushion covers, bedspreads, bathrobes, plant pot hangers, throws, and pouches. We want them all. We can put the jute baskets to use in different rooms all over the house. We can even imagine ourselves using the hand-woven braided jute basket as a beach bag this summer or for picnics later in the year when the weather cools done. One of the highlights of the collection is a basket, in natural and multicolored designs, including a special cat basket that ensures everyone in the household has a place to sleep.

The flatwoven runner with its colorful dots can easily be placed in children’s room to give it a more earthy feel or in living room to add subtle colors while the flower-shaped rug can add whimsy to any space.

The soft bath robe gives you a magical spa-like experience. The striped 100% bedspread and throw add a luxurious but warm feeling to the bed. Our hanging plants will look much better in the handmade macrame plant pot hanger too.

Every piece tells a story of cultural heritage and empowers the artisans who created them.  When something is made by hand it feels intentional, mindful and a gift of time and care. The MÄVINN collection reminds us that collaboration can truly change not just individuals’ lives but also whole communities.

Shop the MÄVINN collection at IKEA the Avenues, IKEA the Warehouse (Sabahiya), IKEA 360, IKEA Assima, IKEA Khiran or online at www.IKEA.com.kw. For more information, please call 184 0408 or follow @IKEAKuwait on Instagram.

BETTER LEADERSHIP

4 successful leaders on the lessons they wish they learned earlier

By Matthew C. Meade

Reflecting on my career journey, one crucial lesson stands out: Embracing discomfort is essential for growth. For over five years, I thrived in one of my roles as an executive focused on innovating processes through technology within banking, relishing the projects and colleagues that enriched my professional life.

Yet, as time passed, I found myself settling into a comfort zone. It dawned on me that when the challenges plateau and the learning curve flattens, it’s a signal to pivot or explore new avenues.

As the team and I began to automate more tasks utilizing technology we would use our time for more strategic projects. However, over time we digitally transformed a significant amount of the organization saving several hours of reporting time per week pushing me to look for greater challenges.

Career journeys rarely follow a linear path from internships to executive roles and zigzagging or even taking a step down the ladder can be a path to success. At each step, there’s potential to gain valuable insights to navigate your career. I spoke to three other executives to uncover the key lessons they wish they had learned earlier in their careers.

Become your own best advocate

One crucial lesson I learned throughout my career is defining your value proposition is essential. Stepping beyond my comfort zone and advocating for myself has been paramount. Looking back on my journey, I regret not recognizing sooner the importance of self-advocacy. I used to believe that hard work alone would attract recognition and opportunities. It took me years to understand that I needed to not only document my achievements and impact but also

regularly discuss them with leaders, articulating my career aspirations.

This proactive approach not only fosters more fruitful performance discussions but also serves as a roadmap for career advancement. Until you explicitly express your goals for the future, you lack the feedback necessary to identify blind spots and areas for improvement to reach those goals.

Karen

Fraser, director of Products & Technology, PwC

Network with people who aren’t like you

Learning to network smartly was one of my biggest career lessons. I thought I was networking effectively by being involved in my company’s employee resource groups, professional development groups in my industry, and my alma mater’s local alumnae chapter. However, I learned that these networks were too small to sustain the vision I had for myself. I needed to network with people who didn’t look like me, worked in fields that I didn’t know much about, and were from different socioeconomic backgrounds than me. The “network effect” of this approach not only allowed me to be in rooms I couldn’t previously access, but also created the potential to buy the entire building that those rooms were in, if necessary, to advance my goals.

Christian McKenzie, venture capitalist and director Lofty Ventures

See mistakes as stepping stones to success

Reflecting on my journey as a corporate strategy leader navigating the realms of business, technology, and policy, I’ve come to realize a profound truth: Mistakes aren’t detours; they’re stepping stones. Allow me to share a personal anecdote: Early in my career, I spearheaded a project that didn’t yield the anticipated results. Initially disheartened, I soon realized that failure was not the end but a pivot point. It led me to reassess, innovate, and ultimately devise a more robust strategy, earning recognition and paving the way for further opportunities. If there’s one thing I wish I had known earlier, it’s this: Embrace failure as a friend, not a foe. It’s through our mistakes that we learn, grow, and ultimately excel.

All in all, navigating your career comes with its own set of lessons. Whether you are embracing discomfort for growth, defining your value proposition, networking smartly, and learning from mistakes. Career paths are rarely straightforward. Whether you take a step back, move sideways, or progress forward, it’s essential to be present, embrace your current situation, and enjoy the journey.

Photo by Mapbox on Unsplash.

THE ALL-NEW TOYOTA CAMRY 2025

ELEVATED, EMOTIONALLY CHARGED DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE

By bazaar Staff

Further strengthening the appeal of one of the Middle East’s best-loved vehicles, Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Sons EST Co. and Toyota have launched the latest iteration of its iconic Camry model in the region. Featuring a sleek, athletic exterior design and a spacious, high-quality interior, the new Camry combines engaging performance with seamless technology to help drivers and passengers get the most out of every journey.

The event was attended by Martin Aherne Senior Business Director Toyota Group Sales, Theo Kruger General Manager of Toyota retail sales, Bader Faisal Al Sayer Head of Toyota Marketing, along with the representatives from press and media.

According to Bader Faisal Al Sayer “Toyota Camry has established an exceptional presence and position in the mid-size saloon car market, in the Middle East and around the world. It managed to sell nearly 20 million cars worldwide. I would like to extend my thanks to all Toyota customers for their continuous support over the years, and we are always pleased to provide them with Toyota cars of the highest quality so that they can enjoy a distinctive experience that exceeds their expectations”.

Since its debut in 1982 and evolution over nine generations, the Toyota Camry has been embraced around the world for its outstanding performance, alluring design and renowned quality and value. As one of the Middle East’s most popular vehicles, it has established an unshakeable presence in the mid-size sedan market and a special place in the hearts of drivers in the region. With its advanced yet seamless technology, modern styling, and an all-new Toyota Hybrid System, this model introduces a level of refinement that exceeds expectations, further cementing the Camry’s reputation as a class-leading vehicle.

Theo Kruger said “Around the world, Camry has established a reputation for value. It’s simply outstanding in every way with the highest market share of the medium-size market in the GCC. The drivers of Camry are loyal, they are highly satisfied, they know Camry’s unparalleled quality and they buy it again and again.”

Tsukasa Takahashi, Chief Engineer for the Camry’s development, stated: “Since the launch of the first-generation Camry in 1982, we have delivered countless successful iterations to our global customers. This success is thanks to our distributors, dealers, and the customers who love this vehicle. Our mission is to maintain our position and continue offering appealing products for sedan enthusiasts everywhere. By further enhancing our trusted and proven nameplate, cherished by customers worldwide for many years, the Camry will remain a ‘sedan to the core.’”

Takahashi added: “In the next-generation Camry, we will deliver not only Quality, Durability, and Reliability (QDR), one of Toyota’s greatest strengths, but also styling and equipment tailored to the needs of each region. We’re confident that this new Camry will bring smiles to all customers by building on the excellence of the current model, with emotional styling that makes you want to own the vehicle and driving comfort that ensures peace of mind.”

Nobuyuki Takemura, Chief Representative, Middle East and Central Asia Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, commented: “We are excited to introduce the new Toyota Camry to our loyal Middle East customers. This iconic sedan,

beloved throughout the region, embodies Toyota’s commitment to innovation and performance. Toyota is also proud to offer an electrified powertrain option, making it yet another addition to our offering of sustainable mobility solutions. We deeply appreciate the support of our customers in the region and look forward to continuing our journey with them to deliver ‘ever-better cars’ that exceed their expectations.”

The new Camry is built around the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform. This delivers excellent body rigidity and a low center of gravity, guaranteeing a more rewarding driving experience. The vehicle features a re-engineered suspension and braking system, with optimally tuned MacPherson strut front suspension and multilink rear suspension, contributing to outstanding stability and handling to create exceptional ride comfort. The retuned suspension enhances responsiveness and agile handling, adding a sense of thrill when taking on twisting and turning roads.

To achieve a more exciting driving style, the new Toyota Camry comes with a choice of two powertrain options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Dynamic Force engine that produces 201 hp and 240 nm of torque and is paired with an eight-speed DirectShift automatic transmission; and an electrified hybrid powertrain, which combines a petrol engine and two electric motors that produce 184 hp and 134 hp respectively. The combined power of the two power sources is 227 hp. It is also paired with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) delivering heightened driving pleasure.

The new Camry HEV features the latest fifthgeneration Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5), an

evolutionary upgrade that allows the vehicle to operate entirely on electrical power with zero fuel consumption and carbon emissions or use a petrol engine combined with two high-performance electric motors. This system enhances powertrain output, acceleration, and driving response while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency of 27.7 km/L. Equipped with lithium-ion batteries that provide increased output in a smaller, lighter package, the Camry automatically recharges through the petrol engine or during braking, eliminating the need for external charging. This results in significant petrol station visits while delivering a driving experience comparable to conventional vehicles.

Drivers can also customize their Camry’s drive feel to suit their specific tastes with standard selectable NORMAL, ECO and SPORT driving modes, along with an additional EV mode for HEV drivers. These options allow drivers to customize their Camry’s driving experience, achieving a driving sensation which feels more refined and connected to the road conditions.

The new Camry’s distinctive interior design is complemented by a range of advanced features to enhance every passenger’s on-road experience. These include a 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, a 12.3-inch color full-graphic meter or 7-inch color display meter, a wireless charging system for smartphones, a color head-up display (HUD), a digital rear-view mirror, a dual-zone automatic air conditioning system with rear AC vents, a 9-speaker JBL surround or a six-speaker sound system, a panoramic roof, multi-adjustable power and ventilated front seats, and 60/40 split and reclining rear seats.

As with any Toyota vehicle, safety is a top priority for the new Camry. Drivers can enjoy complete peace of mind, thanks to the Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced safety and driver assistance system that includes a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with an expanded detection range for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles, together with new features such as Intersection collision avoidance support for crossing vehicles, Emergency Steering Assist, and Acceleration Suppression at Low Speed.

The new Toyota Camry allows customers to express their individuality through a choice of seven distinctive exterior colors, including Emotional Red, Platinum White Pearl MC, Silver ME, Precious Metal, and Attitude Black MC. Additionally, two all-new colors, Precious Bronze and DK. Blue MC, have been introduced. The interior offers a range of four complementary color schemes: Fromage, Black, Yellow Brown, and Neutral Beige. Customers can further personalize their Camry with a choice of three-wheel designs: 18-inch aluminum wheels with tight spokes for a sporty yet upscale look, 17-inch aluminum wheels featuring multi-axis spokes for a sleek, elegant look, and 16-inch steel wheels with twin spokes that create a sense of continuous motion.

Visit toyota.com.kw, call 1803803, or follow @toyotakw on Instagram. [...Continued]

BUY IT FROM YOUR PHONE

You’re still shopping on your computer—that will soon change

By Mark Wilson

Companies have been designing the web, apps, and online shopping around mobile-first for nearly a decade, and yet, a slight majority of shopping—52.3%—still happens on desktops, according to a new report from Adobe.

But desktop hardly owns every category during every shopping season. And the margins are now so close that, by 2025, Adobe predicts mobile will overtake desktop in overall sales as mobile has grown 10.2% year over year.

If you’re willing to dig a bit deeper, here are four big takeaways from the report, which analyzes one trillion visits to U.S. retail sites, 100 million SKUs, and 18 product categories—and points to a lot of design opportunities still to be tapped for mobile retail.

Last year, 51% of all online holiday shopping was conducted on mobile devices (overtaking desktop for the first time). And this year, Adobe anticipates that lead growing to 54%. The reason? It’s likely linked to the urgent, limited time promotions and sales that come along with the holidays, the company claims. Nobody wants to miss a deal, so they’re that much more willing to chase it down on their phone.

This holiday halo doesn’t just include annual winter celebrations like Christmas and Hanukkah. They also include sales for Fourth of July and Memorial Day—and even the wholly corporate “holiday,” Amazon’s Prime Day. Mobile sales represent 51% across these non-winter holidays as we celebrate our days off by bargain hunting.

Cosmetics and clothing are big on mobile, even ignoring the role of influencers

Seventy-seven percent of the time, cosmetics and other personal care items are purchased on a phone rather than computer; 60.8% of the time, the same is true for apparel. It’s easy to hazard a guess as to why: Influencers across social media hawk these products frequently. Who can resist?

But as it turns out, Adobe shows influencers are only driving about 3% of the overall traffic from social media to retailers in personal care. (Such referrals actually grew by 10% year over year, but it’s still a relatively small market.) And notably, Adobe doesn’t track native sales conducted on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. So in other words, mobile sales are even larger in these categories than we think—and large even when independent of influencing.

So just why are cosmetics so much more popular on mobile? Adobe suggests it has a lot to do with price point: Personal care items tend to be inexpensive, and people are more willing to buy inexpensive items online. As for apparel, Adobe offered no distinct explanation for its popularity. But observationally, I’d point out that apparel apps and sites tend to be very well-designed for mobile. And

to add upon that, apparel is often sold with the same limited time sales and perceived scarcity that makes mobile holiday sales so successful.

Groceries are a runaway hit on phones

Online grocery shopping is growing fast on mobile—68.2% of digital groceries are bought mobile rather than desktop now, which marks a 15% year-over-year growth. But why is this category taking off so fast?

No doubt, COVID popularized digital grocery shopping, and investment by Walmart, Kroger, and Target into their apps have something to do with it. But Adobe suggests that the routine habit of grocery shopping matches up well with mobile UX.

“Our take is that for some consumers, they tend to have a lot of repeat purchases in the groceries category—especially for staples like eggs or milk,” says Vivek Pandya, Lead Analyst, Adobe Digital Insights. “Mobile presents an easy way to quickly reorder these items.”

People still trust computers for big ticket items

If mobile shopping has any particular points of failure, it’s in two categories: home improvement and electronics, for which mobile accounts for only

33.3% and 21.3% of online sales, respectively. These two categories have also been more or less stagnant since 2019, all while personal care grew nearly 30% and the mobile grocery shopping share has doubled. By comparison, home improvement and electronics are total failures on mobile.

“Old habits can be hard to break, and e-commerce really had its start in a desktoporiented world. It’s fair to say that for consumers, many are still hesitant to hit the buy button for larger purchases on a mobile device, which they don’t view as the ‘core’ channel,” says Pandya. “Another reason is that mobile experiences were a bit slow to improve. For years, shoppers dealt with UIs that lacked polish, poor navigation in some cases, and also less personalization.”

Indeed, a terrible UX (I’m looking at you, big box home improvement retailers), crossed with high price points, make it easy to imagine why consumers take a few extra moments to buy a backyard shed or new graphics card on their computer with a mouse and big screen. That said, any industry shortcoming is always an opportunity in disguise.

Photo by Roberto Cortese on Unsplash.

CELEBRATE YOUR DREAM WEDDING AT RADISSON BLU HOTEL

The perfect backdrop to your magical day

By bazaar Staff

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most crucial decisions a couple will make during the planning process. The venue sets the tone for the entire celebration, influencing the atmosphere, style, and even the logistics of the day. A well-chosen venue aligns with the couple’s vision, accommodates their guest list, and provides the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. Moreover, the right venue can enhance the overall experience by offering convenient amenities and a setting that reflects the couple’s personalities and love story, making the day truly special.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait, is excited to offer couples an exceptional wedding experience, combining beautiful venues with top-notch service. Known for its attention to detail and commitment to making every moment special, Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait, is the ideal choice for anyone looking to celebrate their big day in style.

EXCEPTIONAL VENUES FOR A MEMORABLE DAY

Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait, features several stunning venues, each with its own unique charm:

Abdul Husain Marafie Grand Ballroom: Located aboard the grand Al Hashemi II dhow, this venue offers a luxurious setting with gold accents and handcrafted wooden details. The dhow’s maritime history adds a touch of elegance to any wedding.

Dasman Ballroom: This ballroom dazzles with its stylish design and private entrance. The modern foyer and versatile setup options ensure a spectacular arrival for guests and a memorable atmosphere for the celebration.

Sky Lounge: Perched on the rooftop, the Sky Lounge provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Its glass enclosure and double-deck terrace make it perfect for outdoor celebrations, blending indoor comfort with outdoor beauty.

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES FOR A STRESS-FREE WEDDING

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait, makes it easy with their all-inclusive packages. Couples can select their preferred venue and let the hotel handle the

details. The packages cover everything needed for a seamless event.

Selecting the ideal wedding venue is crucial, and this venue offers a variety of beautiful locations to choose from. To enhance the experience, early check-in and late check-out options are available for the newlyweds, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable day. The venue provides tailored menus and drink packages, customizable to suit individual tastes, and a dedicated service team ready to arrange personalized touches such as Arabic tea and coffee. Stunning photo spaces allow for capturing unforgettable moments, while a specially crafted tiered wedding cake adds to the celebration. The venue also offers fresh flowers on VIP tables, customized tissue boxes, and a selection of kosha options with stylish lighting and wall covers. Guests can enjoy the comfort and elegance of VIP sofas and tables, and the reception area features a unique perfume table. Additionally, professional photography or a high-quality lighting system is available, along with a lively dance floor and DJ to keep the celebration going. With tailored financing options and a friendly events team ready to assist with all planning needs, this venue ensures a wedding day that is truly unforgettable.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait, is part of Radisson Hotel Group, a globally recognized name in hospitality. Known for delivering stylish, memorable experiences, Radisson Blu combines attention to detail with the Yes I Can! service philosophy to ensure every wedding is perfect.

For more information, follow Radisson Blu Hotel on Instagram @radissonblukuwait or call 25673252.

RAUCH’S CAFEMIO

Delicious Iced Coffee on the Go

By bazaar Staff

We absolutely love our coffee, and sometimes in the summer heat we’re just not in the mood for a hot drink.

So when we’re craving our energizing jolt of caffeine, we know it’s time for iced coffee and we’ve recently discovered Rauch Cafemio.

Rauch’s Cafemio is an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a creamy, delicious iced coffee on the go. Made with 70% fresh, low-fat Alpine milk, Cafemio offers a rich, smooth taste without relying on milk powder, making it a healthier and more satisfying option. Whether you’re in need of a quick energy boost or want to indulge in a refreshing treat, Cafemio’s convenient resealable PET bottles make it easy to enjoy anytime, anywhere.

Drinking iced coffee is an invigorating experience that’s like a party for all your senses. As you take the first sip, the cool, refreshing liquid instantly awakens your palate, delivering a smooth blend of rich coffee flavors that are both bold and mellowed by the cold. The slight chill contrasts beautifully with the natural flavor of the coffee, often enhancing its subtle notes of sweetness and creaminess.

Cafemio levels that up by offering four distinct flavors, each catering to different coffee preferences. For those who enjoy a light and mild taste, Vanilla is the perfect choice. Cappuccino offers a slightly stronger yet still mild flavor, while Macchiato provides a balanced, mediumstrength coffee experience. For those who prefer a more intense coffee kick, Espresso Macchiato delivers a robust, bold flavor.

You can also get creative with your Cafemio. Simply shaking it with ice, adding whipped cream, and topping with chocolate powder, you can create a caféquality delicious homemade Frappuccino right in your kitchen.

The combination of convenience, highquality ingredients, and a range of flavors makes Cafemio a winner in our books. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy morning commute or crafting a decadent dessert, Cafemio delivers a satisfying and versatile coffee experience every time.

You can find Rauch Cafemio in all co-ops, supermarkets and quality retailers. For more on Rauch follow @raucharabia on Instagram.

SCANDI-CHIC STYLE AVAILABLE AT DEBENHAMS

Three popular Scandinavian Fashion Brands have just launched at Debenhams!

By bazaar Staff

Debenhams has always been a go-to destination for fashion-forward shoppers, and now, with the addition of VERO MODA CURVE, AWARE and ONLY, the store’s collection has become even more irresistible. These brands bring a fresh, trendy vibe, offering something for everyone.

The brands are part of BESTSELLER; one of the largest fashion groups with 20+ fashion brands like JACK&JONES, NAME IT, SELECTED and many more.

AWARE by VERO MODA

AWARE is setting higher standards to prove that fashion can be done in a better way. Leading the way with unique pieces made from certified recycled and organic materials and a distinct focus on long-lasting qualities. The AWARE brand appeals to women who demand more conscious and sustainable fashion choices.

For those who prioritize sustainability without sacrificing style, AWARE is a perfect match. This eco-conscious line is dedicated to creating fashion that’s kind to the planet. Available at Debenhams, AWARE offers a selection of clothing made from sustainable materials, proving that fashion can be both stylish and responsible.

The AWARE brand originates from the very popular fashion brand VERO MODA, offering a dedicated line that combines the brand’s signature style with a commitment to sustainability and ecofriendly practices.

ONLY

ONLY, a brand that has been making waves in the fashion world since 1995, is known for its bold and trendy designs that resonate with the modern, fashion-savvy shopper. ONLY brings an exciting mix of youthful, edgy, and versatile clothing that’s perfect for those who love to make a statement with their wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for the perfect wardrobe staples, a chic jacket, or a standout piece that adds flair to your outfit, ONLY has something to suit every style. With its fresh, urbaninspired designs, ONLY ensures that you stay ahead of the fashion curve. Looking to make your wardrobe trendier? ONLY is the brand for you!

VERO MODA CURVE

VERO MODA CURVE is celebrating every woman’s unique shape with stylish, flattering, and comfortable designs. Their dedicated Curve collection is tailored specifically for curvy figures, ensuring confidence, elegance, and a perfect fit in every piece.

VERO MODA CURVE is redefining plus-size fashion with its collection of stylish, curve-friendly clothing. Now available at Debenhams, this brand offers chic and comfortable options for women who want to embrace their curves with confidence. From trendy tops to elegant dresses, VERO MODA CURVE ensures that every woman feels fabulous.

With VERO MODA CURVE, AWARE, and ONLY now at Debenhams, there’s never been a better time to update your wardrobe. Visit your nearest Debenhams store or shop online to discover the latest in fashion trends. Whether you’re looking for sustainable fashion, curve-friendly designs, or the hottest trends, these brands have you covered.

Shop these brands and more by visiting the website at www.debenhams.com.kw or Debenhams stores. Follow @debenhamsmiddleeast on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest updates. Call Customer Service: 182 1212.

ARE WE READY FOR THIS?

How TikTok made perms cool again

By Henry Chandonnet

These days, you can spot a Zoomer by his Broccoli perm.

The haircut, which features loose curls pushed forward on the head, has become a generation-defining look. Popularized by TikTok stars like Noah Beck and Bryce Hall, the Broccoli perm is meant to be floppy and effortless, even as young boys sit for hours-long perm sessions.

“The Broccoli perm isn’t exactly new: Earlier iterations to hit the mainstream include the K-perm and the boy perm. Through a cycle of renaming, perms have gone from internet fad to grooming mainstay. Their popularity shows, yet again, just how influential TikTok has become on all facets of our society.

An evolution of trendy perms

TikTok perms first blew up in 2020, in the early days of the pandemic. Of course, perms (short for “permanent wave”) aren’t new; rockers in the ‘80s sported excessively coiffed hair, teased inches above their scalp. But the perms of 2020 took on a different, altogether more suave aesthetic. These new iterations—many of which were done at home during lockdown—were combed forward and patted down. They also frequently featured side fades, leaving only the top puffed.

In 2023, the trend was reframed around the growing K-pop sensation. Wanting to look like their favorite member of BTS or Stray Kids, people starting aiming for more of a new-school boy-band look. And while the K-perm was a tad smoother than the boy perm, the overall trend remained the same: Gen Z boys were rolling up their locks and buying up the sea salt spray.

The Broccoli perm (also called the Zoomer perm or the birds-nest cut) is the most aggressive version yet. The curls are all pushed forward on the head, forming a makeshift florette to hang over the forehead. For older generations it’s maybe a strange look (some have derogatorily referred to the style as “fboy haircut” and “alpaca cuts”), but it’s clearly caught on: Everyone from Tk to Tk [celebs here] is rocking the look. (Even Superman has gotten in on the action.)

Are TikTok trends just renamings?

Platforms like TikTok promise expansive varieties of content; every For You Page is different, and new microtrends sprout in different communities. How, then, did perms take over a whole generation so dominantly, and for so long? Much of that comes down to branding.

Consider some other internet trends: In 2023, TikTok emphasized the “clean girl” beauty idea, which was not unlike the 2010s “makeup no-makeup” look that blew up on YouTube. In 2015, kids were dangerously plumping their lips as part of the “Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge”; these days, teen lip fillers are all the rage. The perm is just another iteration of trend recycling, where an old fad gets a new name. It’s proof, once again, that social media can quickly make the old new again.

Photo by Don Ricardo on Unsplash.

COS AUTUMN WINTER 2024

By bazaar Staff

Campaign Features Colman Domingo, Christopher Abbott, Aidan Bissett, Mariacarla Boscono, And Rianne Van Rompaey

The COS Autumn Winter 2024 campaign echoes the brand’s design ethos, embracing its timeless aesthetic, characterised by innovative design, precise craftsmanship, and unexpected modern touches.

The campaign features Academy Award nominee, actor and playwright Colman Domingo, actor Christopher Abbott, and singer Aidan Bissett, alongside model and actor Mariacarla Boscono, who closed the brand’s Spring Summer runway in Rome this spring, and fashion model Rianne Van Rompaey. Other campaign stars include models Taemin Park, Dara Gueye, Awar Odhiang, and Chu Wong. Photographed by renowned fashion photographer Karim Sadli in an intimate Milanese studio, the images capture the individuality of each talent while showcasing the collection’s exquisite quality and enduring elegance.

Nature continues to inspire a neutral palette enhanced by rich burgundy tones. An exploration of juxtapositions, the campaign merges contrasting styles and silhouettes fluidly. In womenswear, an angular blazer and straight-leg trouser suit sits seamlessly alongside a Responsible Wool Standard certified hooded top, paired with a voluminous leather skirt. A sculptural checkered

jacket in woven leather exhibits a uniquely tactile surface, while effortless, loose-fitting leather, wool, and denim trousers are dressed up with leather shirting or softened by fine knitwear. Leather boots, loafers, or buckled sandals finish each look, complemented by fringed or quilted clutch bags.

The menswear collection features modern twists on traditional styles, including a contemporary wool herringbone coat designed for day-to-evening dressing. Experimental layering highlights innovative and well-proportioned fits, while relaxed, loose-fitting suiting, and textured knitwear contrast with the sharp, clean lines of elegantly tailored shirts. Fluid trousers are worn with oversized leather jackets, while casual denim sets feature statement topstitching. Woven leather accessories, neckties, and winter scarves complete menswear looks this season.

The collection will be available online at cos.com and in select COS stores.

BACK PAIN BASICS AND SELF-CARE TIPS

When

it comes to back pain, there’s good news and

bad news

By Joel Streed

The good news is that back pain is rarely a sign of something serious and is often relatively short-lived. The bad news is that it’s a common ailment for many adults. About 80% of adults experience pain in their back at some point in their lives. Nearly 90% of back pain cases are temporary, and people make a full functional recovery within 12 weeks of the onset of their symptoms.

What causes back pain?

Some of the most common causes of back pain include:

-- Arthritis

Lower back pain often is caused by osteoarthritis, or wear-and-tear arthritis, the most common type. Just as arthritis affects your knees, hips, wrists and shoulders, it also affects your spine. The spine has over 30 segments, each with four joints and discs, that can develop arthritis. The joints in your back can swell and become larger, similar to the symptoms of arthritis in the knuckles of the hand. This inflammation and enlargement can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord or nerve roots, a condition called spinal stenosis.

Also, cartilage degenerates as you age, so boneon-bone joint movement can cause pain with movement.

-- Bulging or ruptured disks

Disks are the cushioning between the bones in your spine that absorb impact, similar to the suspension on your car or a mountain bike. Disks can bulge or rupture and press on a nerve. Also, they can degenerate with time and lose the ability to provide cushion for average day-to-day impact, which can result in back pain.

-- Muscle or ligament strain

Repeatedly lifting heavy objects or twisting your back quickly can strain muscles and spinal ligaments. Carrying extra weight can strain your back, leading to pain.

It’s not always possible to pinpoint a reason for back pain. Back pain can sometimes be tracked to muscle strain from a fall or lifting something heavy. More commonly, people can’t tie their pain to any specific activity or event.

When should you seek care for back pain?

Rarely, back pain may be a sign of something serious.

However, you should schedule an appointment with your health care team if you have pain that:

• Accompanies unintended weight loss

• Arises with swelling, redness on your back and fevers, which could indicate an infection Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs

• Follows a fall, blow to your back or another injury

• Happens during or after cancer treatment

• Is constant or intense, especially at night or when you lie down

• Occurs with new bowel or bladder control problems

• Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain extends below your knee

How can you find relief from back pain?

Although you may want to head to the couch when you’re hurting, continued light activity and stretching can help in recovery.

Doing regular activities and even light exercise is all right unless the activity worsens the pain. Recovering from an injury means a gradual increase in activity. Listen to your body and try to keep moving.

Avoid actions that further stress your back, such as bending over to tie your shoes, twisting your entire body, bending from your waist or performing high-impact exercises.

Rest, applying heat to the affected areas and over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen, might be enough to ease the pain. If your pain isn’t better after several weeks, you may need to see your

healthcare professional for an evaluation.

How can back pain be prevented?

The best way to avoid back pain is to prevent it by taking good care of your back.

Recommended activities include:

Exercise.Walking, swimming and other low-impact aerobic activities can strengthen your back. Build muscle strength and flexibility. Stretching your back and strengthening your back and core muscles can support and protect your back. Plank holds and push-ups are good ways to help build your core.

Sit, stand and lift correctly. Avoid slouching and standing or sitting in one position for too long. When you need to lift something heavy, lift from your legs, not your back.

Maintain a healthy weight. Carrying extra pounds strains back muscles.

If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow through the smaller blood vessels throughout your body and can reduce your body’s ability to heal injuries.

Photo by Afif Ramdhasuma on Unsplash.

50 YEARS OF THE PORSCHE 911 TURBO

EXCLUSIVE 50TH ANNIVERSARY MODEL OF THE 911 TURBO

By bazaar Staff

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo, Porsche is launching an exclusive anniversary model of its iconic sports car. The 911 Turbo 50 Years combines outstanding performance and the finest materials with exclusive design elements.

The interior and exterior evoke historic 911 Turbo models, complemented by timelessly elegant and contemporary styling elements. An optional Heritage Design Package further refines the aesthetics of the anniversary model. Porsche has limited the 911 Turbo 50 Years, which is based on the last-generation 911 Turbo S, to 1,974 units in honour of the year in which the first 911 Turbo made its debut.

Unique anniversary model with Turbo feel and design

When it was introduced in 1974, the Type 930 Porsche 911 Turbo shifted the boundaries of what was possible. It brought the benchmark turbo technology from the 917/10 and 917/30 racing cars into a production sports car with superior performance and combined it with a unique design and unprecedented day-to-day usability.

The 911 Turbo 50 Years anniversary model – based on the 911 Turbo S introduced in 2019 – both pays tribute to and reinterprets this heritage. The standard side vinyl graphics are a nod to the historic livery of the Porsche 911 RSR Turbo presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1973, itself a forerunner of the 911 Turbo. It features the current Porsche Turbo-exclusive colour Turbonite, which here makes its first appearance on a 911. Turbonite is also used on inlays in the rear engine cover, the fuel tank cap and in the Porsche crest. It is also being used as a contrasting colour in the Turbo 50 model logo. Another historical reference is the use of Anthracite Grey on the rear wing blade, rear apron, mirror base and air intake trims. A badge on the rear engine cover grille features a turbocharger icon and the years 1974–2024. When the door is open, the LED door projector projects the image of a turbocharger onto the

ground next to the car. The 911 Turbo 50 Years comes with the 911 Turbo S Exclusive Design wheels in Turbonite as standard.

Interior recalls the zeitgeist of the 1970s

The interior of the 911 Turbo 50 Years is also redolent of Turbo history. As an exclusive tribute to the early Porsche 911 Turbo models, the iconic McKenzie tartan adorns the centre panels of the seat covers and the interior door panels. Additional contrasts in Turbonite further differentiate the car from the regular 911 Turbo S series-production model. These Turbonite accents include the seat belts, controls, decorative stitching, trim strips with decorative inlays in black leather and the Porsche crest on the GT sports steering wheel. An illuminated Turbo 50 logo, meanwhile, features on the door kick plates, which are finished in black brushed aluminium. The logo is embroidered into the headrests of the Adaptive Sports Seats Plus. There is also a Turbo 50 logo on the back of the left rear seat. Above the glove compartment is an anniversary plaque in aluminium, which bears both the Turbo 50 logo and the individual limitededition number of the sports car. The A-pillar, sun visors and roof lining are upholstered in perforated Race-Tex. An analogue Porsche Design Subsecond clock with a special Turbo 50 design adorns the dashboard.

Even more history with Heritage Design package

The historically inspired, optionally available 50 Years of Turbo Heritage Design Package complements the anniversary model with numerous additional exclusive design and equipment features that hark back to the 911 Turbo models of the 1970s. The base colour of the Heritage Design Package is provided by the Aventurine Green Metallic paintwork. Alternatively, both the standard 911 colours and Paint to Sample programme colours are also available. One component of the Heritage Design Package is a high-quality decorative graphic in White (satin finish) consisting of three elements: the lollipop with individually selectable car numbers between 0 and 99, the 50 years of Turbo logo and a Porsche logo. Those who prefer a minimalistic look can dispense with some or all of the graphic elements. The historic Porsche crest from 1964 is used on the front bonnet as well as on the centre caps of the Sport Classic wheels,

painted in Brilliant Silver and White (satin finish).

The Turbo 50 and Porsche logos on the rear are in Gold. In the interior, additional leather features and additional tartan design elements round off the anniversary model. The dashboard trim, glove box and seat backrest inlays are covered with the classic pattern. The historic Porsche crest is mounted on the steering wheel, while the centre console storage compartment bears the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo embossed in the leather. The dials in the instrument cluster and the Sport Chrono clock in the Heritage Design Package are finished in green.

Outstanding in performance, style and history

Technically, the Porsche 911 Turbo 50 Years is based on the 911 Turbo S that has been in production since 2019. Its 3.7-litre boxer engine with variable turbine geometry (VTG) twin turbocharging delivers 478 kW (650 PS) and 800

Newton metres of torque. With a kerb weight of 1,640 kilograms, the result is a power-to-weight ratio of 2.52 kg/PS. The 911 Turbo 50 needs just 2.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and hits 200 km/h in a mere 8.9 seconds. Power is transmitted to the wheels by the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and the active all-wheel-drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) with Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), including the electronically controlled rear differential lock with fully variable torque distribution. A sports exhaust system with black tailpipes comes as standard. The 10 millimetrelower Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sports suspension and the lift system on the front axle are also included as standard, as are the LED matrix headlights, including the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus. The brake callipers of the standard PCCB brake system feature a black finish.

Exclusive Chronograph for a timeless sports car Exclusively for the owners of the 911 Turbo 50 Years, Porsche Design Timepieces is releasing a special timepiece as an homage to the anniversary model. The 911 Turbo 50 Years chronograph is equipped with the COSC-certified Porsche Design WERK 01.200 movement with flyback function. Like the vehicle, the watch is limited to 1,974 units and combines classic design with modern technology. Its black dial with elements in Turbonite is a perfect likeness of the timepiece on the dashboard. The strap, made of black vehicle leather with decorative stitching in Turbonite, features a folding clasp. The transparent case offers a view of the winding rotor in the same style as the wheels of the 911 Turbo 50. The limited-edition number engraved on the titanium housing corresponds to the limitededition number of the vehicle. The chronograph is also available in a special version in conjunction with the Heritage Design Package.

Ready for immediate order

The limited-edition 911 Turbo 50 Years anniversary model can be ordered now. It can also be seen in the ongoing Beyond Performance – 50 Years of Porsche Turbo special exhibition at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

To find out how you can experience automotive excellence at a new level, follow @Porschecentrekuwait.

HOW NOT TO BE A TERRIBLE TOURIST

What Europeans want travelers to know

By Laura King

Travel can be exhilarating or awful, and like it or not, we all leave footprints. Of course, some tourists tread more heavily than others, leaving residents swearing, slack-jawed or just shaking their heads.

In this busy European travel season, here are some things tourism professionals and local people would like you to know, so you won’t be that tourist.

Buy locally made items

“Don’t just purchase cheap souvenirs,” said Lony Scharenborg, who manages a merchants’ association for Amsterdam’s Nine Little Streets, a picturesque shopping area in the canal district.

“Remember that the people who live here need their bakeries and their grocery stores. Pick up something from there.”

You’re a guest, so act like it

“A city is not only monuments and marbles; it is people,” said Giovanni Andrea Martini, a City Council member in Venice.

“Show respect and coexist.”

In another overburdened destination, Emma Martin of Spain’s Turisme de Barcelona also said a little consideration goes a long way. She urged visitors to think of themselves as “temporary but integral” citizens.

During big events, consider an alternative locale

In Paris this summer, plenty of locals fled the Olympics influx, while some travelers deferred their visits or found last-minute bargains.

Another example: Scotland’s historic capital of Edinburgh is even more jam-packed than usual during the Festival Fringe in August, but Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, points out that lesser-known parts of the country are “filled with hidden gems.” The moral: Whenever possible, get off the beaten track.

Think sustainability, especially with transportation

“Choose sustainable options if you can — come by train, use an electric vehicle, use public transport when in the city, use a bicycle,” said Charel van Dam, marketing director for the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions. “Stay longer in the same place — less movement is always better.”

In every big European city, and in many smaller ones, there are travel apps to help you avoid bottlenecks.

Be curious — and friendly

“I’m happy when people ask me about cheese — but very happy when they ask me about other things, about life here!” said Spyros Chalikias, 39, who works in a tourism-focused cheese shop in central Amsterdam.

When you can see you’re part of the problem ... “If you see that huge line at that TikTok place, think of the impact in a tiny street, and maybe take your business elsewhere,” said Scharenborg.

Try to help local causes

German tourist Manuela Pietsch, 52, from Heidelberg, attended a recital in Amsterdam’s Westerkerk, a 17th century church, with her voluntary donation earmarked to help with restoration of its historic Duyschot organ. “It makes me feel good to be part of this,” she said. “And it was a wonderful recital!”

In many European destinations, history is painful

“Yes, you can mention the war,” said Jan Katzmarczyk, who has been conducting walking tours in Berlin for 13 years, including of many notorious Nazi sites. He urges visitors to be direct in their queries, but not accusatory toward the current generation. “We’ll take the blame, but

etiquette, which varies from one European country to another — although tips are almost always less than is expected in the U.S.

Adapt! As in, bring a plug adapter to charge your devices

USB sockets are a relative rarity, especially in older accommodations, and chances are slim the hotel will have an adapter to lend you.

“I can’t tell you how often Americans ask,” said the receptionist at one moderately priced Paris hotel, who did not want her name used because her employer wouldn’t approve. “Sometimes I want to say, ‘Oh, yes — let me just go out back and pluck one off the tree where they grow.’”

Don’t take things out on service workers

They’re trying to do their jobs and help you. Try to work with them and find solutions for that canceled flight or overbooked hotel. Document what happened — save texts, emails and proof of

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE

Genre: Horror, Comedy

Cast: Jenna Ortega, Michael Keaton, Monica Bellucci

Synopsis: After a family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her teenage daughter, Astrid, accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife.

STRANGE DARLING

Genre: Action, Adventure

Cast: Willa Fitzgerald, Kyle Gallner, Barbara Hershy

Synopsis: Nothing is what it seems when a twisted one-night stand spirals into a serial killer’s vicious murder spree.

TRANSFORMERS ONE

Genre: Action, Adventure

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johanson

Synopsis: The untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever.

SPEAK NO EVIL

Genre: Psychological Thriller

Cast: James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Aisling Franciosi

Synopsis: A family is invited to spend a weekend in an idyllic country house, unaware that their dream vacation will soon become a psychological nightmare.

Source: cinescape.com.kw

AFRIAD

Genre: Mystery, Horror

Cast: Keith Carradine, David Dastmalchian, Katherine Waterston

Synopsis: The Curtis’ family is selected to test a new home device: a digital assistant called AIA. AIA learns the family’s behaviors and begins to anticipate their needs. And she can make sure nothing - and no one - gets in her family’s way.

THE WILD ROBOT

Genre: Action, Adventure, Animation

Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor

Synopsis: After a shipwreck, an intelligent robot called Roz is stranded on an uninhabited island. To survive the harsh environment, Roz bonds with the island’s animals and cares for an orphaned baby goose.

FALL 2024 COLLECTION

Empowering Glamour

By bazaar Staff

& Other Stories is proud to unveil its Fall 2024 collection, a luxurious blend of the glamorous and powerful aesthetics of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, reimagined with contemporary fashion sensibilities. This collection is characterised by dramatic draping, opulent fabrics, and a dynamic interplay of textures, resulting in sculptural silhouettes that artfully merge the past with the present.

“Our Fall 2024 collection is a nostalgic nod to an era of bold fashion choices and unapologetic glamour. We wanted to capture that fearless spirit and infuse it with modern sophistication, creating pieces that empower and inspire,” says Malin Sone, Head of Design at & Other Stories.

The collection also features elevated everyday essentials designed to transition seamlessly from day to night. Highlights include silk blouses adorned with frills, delicate dresses with draped or textured details, and sharp tailoring paired with supple leather and soft suede. Luxurious

knitwear incorporating fine cashmere, merino wool, and mohair complements the collection’s statement pieces, while capacious coats and chic jackets round out the outerwear offerings.

Accessories play a pivotal role in completing the look, with leather bags emphasising sleek clutch styles and statement jewellery featuring luxurious diamante cocktail rings and cascading earrings for maximum impact. The footwear selection includes sculptural-heeled pumps and slouchy knee-high leather boots, perfect for accentuating the 80’s-inspired silhouettes.

The colour palette is as diverse as it is refined, spanning serene blue hues and rich green tones, transitioning through warm neutrals to deep plums, burgundies, and opulent browns. Leopard print accents and gleaming gold touches evoke a sense of luxury and exclusivity, embodying the spirit of the season.

The Fall 2024 Collection will launch on Thursday 22 August. Available globally in selected stores and at www.stories.com.

Shark Beauty SpeedStyle Pro

Shark makes some of our favorite hair tools, including its original SpeedStyle. This upgraded version of the brand’s hair dryer lets you style straight or wavy hair while maintaining its shine and volume. It comes with three attachments: a turbo concentrator (for straight styles), a quicksmooth brush (for volumizing styles) and a frizz-fighting finishing tool.

ASIWO U1

Upgrade your water adventures with the ASIWO U1 Universal Underwater Scooter. This is undoubtedly a great companion for SUP, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and DIY projects. The robust motor reaches speeds of up to 12 km/h with a runtime of 80 minutes, providing stable and controlled water experiences. Maximum thrust of this device is 17 Kgf.

Roomba Combo 10 Max Robot + AutoWash Dock

This 2-in-1 Roomba robot vacuum and mop is iRobot’s most advanced model yet. It can clean carpets and hard floors like wood and tile and quickly transitions between mopping and vacuuming modes. On hard floors, the Roomba vacuums and mops at the same time.

Laifen Wave

Designed for optimal dental care, the Laifen Wave electric toothbrush boasts a high brushing efficiency. It combines 60° oscillation and vibration for a deeper clean. The Wave’s dualaction combination of vibration and 60° oscillation provides 3x higher brushing power compared to ordinary sonic motors, ensuring superior brushing efficiency.

Monk Smart Ice Bath

Immerse yourself in the Monk Gen-One Monk Smart Ice Bath, blending 5,000 years of wisdom with modern technology. Enjoy an automatic cleaning system that keeps your ice bath hygienic and free from manual maintenance. Benefit from light-guided breathwork, improving your relaxation and wellness routine.

FUNDIAN X1

Level up your gaming setup with the FUNDIAN X1 All-in-one Wireless GamePad and Keyboard Combo, now available in a CookieRun Limited Edition. It works seamlessly with iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and streaming TVs like Shield TV, Google TV, and Fire TV.

Source: bestproducts.com

ATHLETA’S REVOLUTIONARY TRAIN COLLECTION

Engineered with Proprietary PowerMove Fabric, the Game Changing Collection Empowers Women through High-Intensity Movement

By bazaar Staff

Athleta, ushered in a new era of unparalleled performance technology with the debut of its new Train Collection. A brand rooted in performance and innovation, its new 8-piece collection is the culmination of more than three years of rigorous, comprehensive wear tests with a range of women including elite professional athletes and everyday consumers. Athleta also executed extensive third-party lab tests to perfect the fit and design-- including shape retention, strength, pilling, snagging, breathability and wicking. The result is a high-performance training assortment that empowers women through their most intense workouts.

Central to the Train Collection is the debut of PowerMove, a proprietary high-performance fabric crafted with recycled polyester, derived from post-consumer plastic bottles to lessen environmental impact. PowerMove boasts an interlock construction that provides a sleek sensation with optimal coverage, supportive stretch, and weight. PowerMove is constructed using a fine 50-gauge double knit machine to create an ultra-light, breathable and quick-drying fabric without sacrificing coverage and durability. PowerMove offers optimal compression featuring both vertical and horizontal compression for a supportive fit. The fabric is cut on the cross grain to give her flexible compression, allowing for more stretch vertically on the body which offers support for explosive movements such as box jumps and burpees.

“Our innovative new Train Collection truly brings to life Athleta’s mission to empower women through movement. With this launch, Athleta continues its commitment of creating products for real women with our obsessive attention to every detail,” said Casey Schumacher, Senior Director of Design. “We wanted to ensure we created a product she could jump, lift, sweat and move in without distraction.”

The Train Collection is anchored by the Interval Tight, which has a unique waistband design that uses an adhesive technology, allowing it to mold to the body and ensure an optimal fit - making it a sleek, comfortable, and high-performance choice for the toughest workouts and beyond. The Train collection will also include the Interval Stash 7/8 Tight, Interval Stash Capri, Interval Stash Short (7-inch), and Interval Jacket, offered in a variety of colors including Black, Dark Lapis Blue, Granite Blue, Iceplant Pink, Aspen Olive, and Bright White.

Serving all her training needs including pre and post workout, the Unstoppable Fleece Assortment, features Flex Fleece, a new, proprietary fabric that’s a midweight technical fleece made with recycled polyester fiber and spandex for stretch. The Unstoppable Fleece assortment is comprised of the Unstoppable Full Zip, Unstoppable Quarter Zip Vest and Unstoppable Jogger. It is wicking, quick drying and breathable so pieces can be layered for outdoor training ensuring she can take on anything, anywhere. This assortment is incredibly versatile, providing a supremely comfortable experience before and after the gym with its irresistibly soft and cozy on-body feel.

To shop Athleta online, visit athleta.com.kw and follow @alyasra on Instagram. Visit Athleta at 360 Mall Kuwait, Khiran Mall, and of course, The Avenues. Contact Athleta 360 Kuwait via WhatsApp at 50772034, The Avenues at 50434721 and Khiran at 22205614.

THE FRAUD

by Zadie Smith, Fiction

THE COMING WAVE

by Mustafa Suleyman, Non-fiction

SCARCITY BRAIN

by Michael Easter, Non-fiction

It is 1873. Mrs. Eliza Touchet is the Scottish housekeeper—and cousin by marriage—of a once-famous novelist, now in decline, William Ainsworth, with whom she has lived for thirty years. Mrs. Touchet is a woman of many interests: literature, justice, abolitionism, class, her cousin, his wives, this life and the next. But she is also sceptical. She suspects her cousin of having no talent; his successful friend, Mr. Charles Dickens, of being a bully and a moralist; and England of being a land of facades, in which nothing is quite what it seems.

STAY TRUE

By Hua Hsu, Memoir

In the eyes of eighteen-year-old Hua Hsu, the problem with Ken—with his passion for Dave Matthews, Abercrombie & Fitch, and his fraternity—is that he is exactly like everyone else. Ken, whose Japanese American family has been in the United States for generations, is mainstream; for Hua, the son of Taiwanese immigrants, who makes ’zines and haunts Bay Area record shops, Ken represents all that he defines himself in opposition to. The only thing Hua and Ken have in common is that, however they engage with it, American culture doesn’t seem to have a place for either of them.

NORMAL RULES DON’T APPLY

by Kate Atkinson, Fiction

We are approaching a critical threshold in the history of our species. Everything is about to change.  Soon you will live surrounded by AIs. They will organize your life, operate your business, and run core government services. You will live in a world of DNA printers and quantum computers, engineered pathogens and autonomous weapons, robot assistants and abundant energy. None of us are prepared. As co-founder of the pioneering AI company DeepMind, part of Google, Mustafa Suleyman has been at the center of this revolution. The coming decade, he argues, will be defined by this wave of powerful, fast-proliferating new technologies.

BUILD THE LIFE YOU WANT

Nothing is quite as it seems in this collection of eleven dazzling stories. We meet a queen who makes a bargain she cannot keep; a secretary who watches over the life she has just left; a man who bets on a horse that may—or may not— have spoken to him. Everything that readers love about the novels of Kate Atkinson is here— the inventiveness, the verbal felicity, the sharp observations on human nature, and the deeply satisfying emotional wallop. A startling and funny feast for the imagination, these stories conjure a multiverse of subtly connected worlds while illuminating the webs of chance and connection among us all.

by Arthur C Brooks and Oprah Winfrey, Non-fiction

Have you ever found yourself wondering “Why do I want more than I have?” Michael Easter, author of The Comfort Crisis and one of the world’s leading experts on behavior change, shows that the problem isn’t you. The problem is your scarcity mindset, left over from our ancient ancestors. They had to constantly seek and consume to survive because vital survival tools like food, material goods, information, and power were scarce and hard to find. But with our modern ability to easily fulfill our ancient desire for more, our hardwired “scarcity brain” is now backfiring. And new technology and institutions—from dating and entertainment apps to our food and economic systems—are exploiting our scarcity brain. They’re bombarding us with subversive “scarcity cues,” subtle triggers that lead us into low-reward cravings that hurt us in the long run. Scarcity cues can be direct and all-encompassing, like a sagging economy. Or they can be subtle and slight, like our neighbor buying a shiny new car.

In Build the Life You Want, Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey invite you to begin a journey toward greater happiness no matter how challenging your circumstances. Drawing on cutting-edge science and their years of helping people translate ideas into action, they show you how to improve your life right now instead of waiting for the outside world to change. With insight, compassion, and hope, Brooks and Winfrey reveal how the tools of emotional self-management can change your life immediately. They recommend practical, research-based practices to build the four pillars of happiness: family, friendship, work, and faith. And along the way, they share hard-earned wisdom from their own lives and careers as well as the witness of regular people whose lives are joyful despite setbacks and hardship.

Source: Goodreads.com

YOUR SUCCESS BEGINS WITH XCITE Study smarter not harder

By bazaar Staff

As the season changes and new opportunities arise, it’s important to prepare yourself with the right tools and resources to thrive in all areas of life. Whether you’re heading back to school, stepping into the classroom as a teacher, diving into your favorite games, or focusing on personal well-being, being equipped and ready is the key to success. At Xcite, we understand the diverse needs of our customers, which is why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you excel in every aspect of your journey.

Study Essentials

A productive study environment starts with the right equipment. From cutting-edge laptops that keep you connected to reliable tablets for notetaking on the go, having the right technology is crucial for staying organized and efficient. Take advantage of our 20% Off on selected Lenovo and HP laptops to ensure you have the best tools for your studies or if you are into the Apple ecosystem then an instant 8% off on MacBook to stay connected and productive. Add in a few must-have accessories like wireless headphones to block out distractions and smart planners to keep your schedule on track, and you’ll be set for academic success.

Teachers and Students

In both teaching and learning, having the right tools can greatly enhance the experience. For teachers, incorporating technology like interactive displays and projectors can make lessons more dynamic and engaging. High-quality printers and scanners are also essential for managing coursework and assignments efficiently. Save on essential tools with Up to 25% off on HP

Neverstop Printers + OfficeJet Pro Printer and 20% OFF on Canon Printers. Students, on the other hand, can benefit from lightweight and powerful laptops, smart notebooks, and organizational tools that help them stay on top of their studies. A well-equipped classroom, whether at school or at home, sets the stage for effective learning and success.

Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is just as important as staying productive. Personal grooming products, fitness trackers, and relaxation tools are all part of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re focusing on physical health or mental well-being, having the right products helps you stay on track and feel your best every day.

Gamers

Gaming isn’t just about playing—it’s about immersing yourself in worlds of adventure, strategy, and creativity. To truly experience the best that gaming has to offer, you need the right setup. Take your gaming to the next level with our 10% OFF when you buy any LG, HP, or Acer gaming monitors. Enhance your experience further with up to 50% Off on HyperX gaming products, up to 40% Off on Logitech gaming products, and up to 50% OFF on Sades gaming products. Create a space that fuels your passion and helps you achieve new levels of performance.

Exclusive Deals for Your Success

At Xcite, we believe that preparation is the foundation of success. That’s why we’ve curated a range of exclusive deals to help you get the most out of every aspect of your life. Whether you’re stocking up on study essentials, enhancing your teaching toolkit, upgrading your gaming setup, or investing in self-care, our exclusive deals are designed to support your goals and aspirations. Visit us in-store or at xcite.com to explore these offers and start your season with Xcite.

Stay updated on the latest events, monthly promotions and offers by subscribing to the monthly newsletter on xcite.com, follow X-cite’s social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Snapchat, @xcitealghanim or Facebook at XcitebyAlghanim and win prizes with contests, or visit the online store at www.xcite.com.

ANCIENT DRAGON LEGENDS

Embark on an epic puzzle adventure in Ancient Dragon Legends! Match three or more spheres within a limited number of moves to progress through levels. Discover and unlock entries in the comprehensive Dragon Encyclopedia as you play.

PIBBY DARKNESS APOCALYPSE

Brace yourself! the apocalypse is here! Join forces with Pibby to save the characters who got assimilated by a glitch-like corruption (The Darkness). You need to win all the rap battles in order to avoid getting corrupted too.

ANIMAL SODUKO

Dive into the wild world of Sudoku with a twist!

“Animal Sudoku: 3D” brings the classic puzzle game to life with stunning 3D graphics and adorable animal themes.

KINGS OF THE CASTLE

The dragon Zantorian locked Prince Rupert away in a castle tower on a dangerous and mysterious island. Lord Baldor dispatches the princess to investigate the hostile and unfamiliar territory and save the prince.

BRICK BASH SAGA

With it’s new and improved gameplay and unique levels, Brick Bash Saga promises you a very fun time. You throw the balls at the bricks and hit them unitl they break. Every level has a different layout and you need to aim the balls accordingly.

BW EMPTY PARK IT

Move the cars properly to be able to put your car in the right place.

THE BARB’XPERT, A BEAUTY BRAND DESIGNED TO MEET MEN’S SPECIFIC NEEDS

Look after your appearance, French-style

Styling and grooming play a crucial role in a man’s overall presentation and selfconfidence. In today’s fast-paced world, personal appearance speaks volumes, often serving as the first impression in both personal and professional settings. Well-groomed men exude confidence and attention to detail, which can positively influence how they are perceived by others. Beyond aesthetics, grooming is a form of self-care that fosters a sense of discipline and self-respect. Investing time in styling not only enhances one’s look but also contributes to a positive mindset, empowering men to face their day with assurance and charisma. Ultimately, grooming is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and showcasing one’s personality.

Launched in 2017, the brand The Barb’Xpert by Franck Provost has been designed to meet the specific needs of every man. Aware that men’s care routines must be efficient, simple and time saving, The Barb’Xpert products meet these essential needs. The brand has become a key player in the men’s beard accessories market with 35% growth in 2019.

Innovative and avant-garde, The Barb’Xpert brand is constantly attentive to new trends and the needs of each consumer in order to develop alongside them. A distinguished French brand that has elevated the grooming and haircare experience for men to an art form. Renowned for its high-quality, meticulously crafted products, BarbXpert combines the elegance of traditional French craftsmanship with innovative modern technology. The brand offers a wide range of grooming accessories, ergonomic combs to luxurious manicure kits especially designed for men.

By bazaar Staff

With its eye-catching design and modern look; Barb’Xpert products very much stands out from the competition. The real strength of The Barb’Xpert brand is to offer a global concept with a strong visual identity where consumers can find everything they need. The products are easy to use while being really efficient.

Each product is designed with the discerning gentleman in mind, ensuring that every grooming routine can be both efficient and indulgent.

BarbXpert’s commitment to excellence is evident in the durability of their tools, as well as in their dedication to using only the finest materials in their products. Whether you’re sculpting a stylish beard, or looking for basic grooming tools BarbXpert provides the products necessary to achieve professional-level results at home. This brand not only enhances personal grooming routines but also promotes a sense of confidence and sophistication, embodying the timeless charm of French elegance.

In a world where first impressions matter, investing in proper grooming and haircare tools is not merely about vanity but about presenting oneself in the best possible light.

Coming soon to Kuwait. Discover the best tools for beauty and grooming at roomserviceq8.com and by following @beauty_appliances_kuwait and @roomserviceq8 on Instagram.

VIRGO

AUG 23 – SEP 22

You could have an excellent time going out with your friends on the 11th. Avoid the tendency to overdo on the 21st by having reasonable plans. Changes that you have been hoping for would be easier to attain on the 26th.

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22

Everybody seems open to your ideas on the 5th & 6th. Travel beckons and could be a whole lot of fun on the 15th. Don’t let old habits get in your way on the 22nd.

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22

You tend to sparkle and shine on the 7th & 8th. Don’t let inconsiderate words rattle you on the 22nd. Friends want to take you out for a good time on the 26th.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21

Avoid the tendency to overdo on the 12th by planning a doable day. Friends want to take you out for a good time on the 15th. The 21st is not a good day for a discussion with the boss.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19

Don’t let authority figures bring you down on the 8th. Words should be picked with caution before you say them on the 18th. The 30th would be an excellent day to do something fun with your mate.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18

Don’t let others trick you with an unexpected agenda on the 7th. Folks are willing to listen to you on the 14th and 15th. Your intuition is stellar on the 19th.

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 19

Don’t let your own words undermine you on the 3rd; Pick them carefully. You sparkle and shine on the 16th and 17th. Don’t believe everything that you hear on the 25th.

ARIES MAR 20 – APR 19

Don’t believe everything that you hear on the 3rd. An idea to improve your work space is yours on the 11th. Dreams can bring you many messages on the 30th; perhaps take some time to ask for specific guidance before retiring.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20

Some luck could be coming your way with money on the 15th. People are particularly open to your ideas on the 20th & 21st. Don’t listen to negative ideas coming your way from others on the 22nd.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21

Don’t listen to unexpected chatter on the 7th. Your intuition is spectacular on the 24th. Changes you have been wanting to make flow easily on the 26th.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

A dream could point you in a new direction for making money on the 6th. You are particularly creative on the 15th. You sparkle & shine on the 25th & 26th.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22

Investments are not favored for the 8th. Doing something with your significant other would be particularly fun on the 22nd. You are filled with abundant ideas on the 30th.