Community Times May Issue by Community Times

Since 1996

May 2018

IN TUNE WITH THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1996

How to spenD iftAr Differently THE HISTORY OF THE FANOUS AHMED FARAG: THE EGYPTIAN PRODIGY LIVING IN THE SHADOWS

GD DesiGns: MoDernizinG Antiquities

FILM MY DESIGN: UNITING LOCAL DESIGNERS AND FILMMAKERS

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CONTENTS MAY 2018 tOWN tAlK 06

DeStINAtIONS

Talk of the Town News

TRAvEl Spiritual Traveling in India: A Yoga Retreat

StYle 10

GD Designs: Modernizing Antiquities

AYO: Telling Stories Through Fashion

Marakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kimonos and Kaftans

Culture

ART Collective Art Exhibition

Books Influential Spiritual and Self-Help Titles

EvEnTs Events You Do Not Want to Miss

FIlm Film My Design: Uniting Local Designers and Filmmakers

mIND, BODY & SOul 42

How to Keep Yourself Energized in Ramadan

FeAtureS

COVER CREDIT: GD DESIGNS

How to Spend Your Iftar Differently

The History of the Fanous

COmmuNItY 28

REAl PEoPlE Ahmed Farag: The Egyptian Prodigy Living in the Shadows

REAl EsTATE Latest Real Estate News

BuSINeSS 34

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Latest Business News

CuISINe 44

Energy-Boosting Salads and Drinks

Lesaffre Opens New Baking Center in Egypt

SOCIetY 52

Social Events and Gatherings

Publisher Live Colors, Nicosia Managing Partner Najla Riad Associate Partners Ahmed Samy Mohamed Maher

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief Moguib Roshdy Acting Editor Najla Riad Assistant Editor Rawan Abdel Latif

WRITERS Katharina Froehlich, Noha Kandil and Zaina Hassan

Editor’s NotE

ART DEPARTMENT Art Director Khadiga El Badan

Senior Graphic Designer Hania Hindy

Dear Reader

SALES DEPARTMENT

Wish you all a blessed month of fasting and goodwill giving to those in need. It is not only a month where you abstain from food and drink for the better part of the day, but it is also a great opportunity to give to those most in need. !ere are many charity organisations and hospitals for the poor that would welcome help from you. However, my preference always goes to either food stuff that charities in turn package to donate to families or clothes or household items that you do not need instead of giving money. Same with hospitals, if you and friends and family can get together and donate something the hospital lacks, such as medicine or a kidney dialysis machine for example, I always feel it is a better way to serve a purpose. As I mentioned above, this is a month to fast in order to experience the hunger of the poor people, when they have to skip a meal or stay all day without eating and have one small meal of boiled potatoes or a piece of bread dipped in a sauce. However, the irony is that when you go to the supermarket or any food outlet just before the holy month or during, you are struck with a mélange of humans stuffing their shopping carts with a mountain of all kinds of goodies from meats to vegetables to all the accompaniments that Ramadan food requires, be it nuts or dried sheets of fruit to make juices or dates and some of these goodies skyrocket in prices especially during Ramadan….sad.

Sales Director Rania Halim

PRODUCTION MANAGER Enas Adly

ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT Distribution Manager Rana Ezzat Salem Tantawi

Office Manager Magda Adib

FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS Hazem Abdel Tawab Ahmed Abbas

Office Clerk Mohamed Adel Office Custodian Ismail Othman Distribution Al Ahram, Next Media Mohandessin, Zamalek, Heliopolis, Maadi, Nasr City, New Cairo, 6 October City, Sheikh Zayed City

Prepress & Printing: Sahara Printing Company

In this issue we have some energy boosting drinks that would be beneficial for you while fasting, we also mention outings that are not the usual where you can break your fast with family and friends. We also have an interesting article on the history of the Ramadan fanous. In the style section you will find a new design company called Marak that designs outfits appropriate to wear in Ramadan or on the beach.

!e Editor editor@live-colors.com Address: 48 Abdel Moneim Hafez Street, Midan El Sabaa’ Emarat, Heliopolis, Cairo, Egypt Tel/Fax: (+202) 2290 8127 - 2415 8762 Mobile: 0100 005 2322 - 0100 005 2323 E-mail: editor@live-colors.com Website: published by LC Live Colors Nicosia, Cyprus

CommunityTimesEgypt

Ct | MAY 2018

TOWNTALK

Hilton Hotels in Egypt Receive Industry Awards Hilton hotels across Egypt have received numerous industry awards and accolades, as well-respected hospitality and consumer guides release their annual lists of hotels recognized for excellence in a wide variety of categories. The Luxury Travel Guide Awards, which recognize and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the affluent travel and tourism industry, have heaped praise on Hilton this year. Hilton Alexandria King’s Ranch received the overall title of Luxury Hotel & Restaurant of the Year 2018, with Conrad Cairo taking the same honors for Egypt as the country’s Luxury Hotel and Restaurant of the Year 2018. Hilton Alexandria Corniche has the distinction of being awarded the Luxury City Hotel of the Year 2018 across Middle East and Africa, and Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences won the Luxury Island Hotel of the Year in Egypt. Trip Advisor has also recognized several Hilton chains with a slew of awards. Hilton Alexandria King’s Ranch received two 2018 Travelers’ Choice Awards as a Top 25 Value for Money in the Middle East, and Top 25 Value for Money in Egypt, whereas Hilton Hurghada Resort won two 2018 Travelers’ Choice Awards as a Top Hotel for Families in Egypt and in the Middle East. Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa has been awarded a total of four 2018 Travelers’ Choice Awards from Trip Advisor as a Top 25 Luxury Hotel in both Egypt and across the Middle East, as well as a Top 25 Service Hotel in Egypt as well as the Middle East. Moreover, Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa received the eCristal regional award for 2018 - for the fifth consecutive year. The award is granted for hotels maintaining the highest standards of health and safety. On the other hand, Hilton Alexandria Corniche received the Outstanding Service Award for 2017 from Gohotel.com. This award is offered to the hotels that consistently achieve a high customer review rating in these categories: cleanliness, facilities, location, rooms and service.

Ct | MAY 2018

Marriott International Unveils Unified Loyalty Programs with One Set of Benefits Marriott International announced that it will introduce one set of unified benefits across Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) for its members in August 2018. This will create an incredibly rich hospitality loyalty program in which members will earn more points faster than under the prior programs - on average 20% more points for every dollar spent. For the first time, members will have access to book stays and earn or redeem points among 29 participating global brands comprising 6,500 hotels in 127 countries and territories. Additionally, the Moments experiential platform is expanding, with more than 110,000 experiences in 1,000 destinations from must-see attraction tickets and tours for purchase with cash by all guests, to once-in-a-lifetime events only available to members using points, including the new bespoke “Moments Live” event series. Beginning in August, members will be able to combine their separate Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and SPG accounts into a single account spanning the entire loyalty portfolio. Also beginning in August, travelers will have the ability to book stays across the entire portfolio for the first time on Marriott.com, SPG.com and the Marriott and SPG apps, or by contacting customer engagement centers.

Hiba Tawaji in Egypt for the First Time at Sheraton Cairo Hotel After the great success of her new song “salam ala masr”, Sawt Music proudly presents for the first time in Egypt, the iconic Lebanese soprano singer, Hiba Tawaji. As the main sponsor, Sheraton Cairo Hotel team welcomed the star upon her arrival at the VIP Sheraton Club lounge on the 26th floor where she took pictures as her first memory in Egypt with the Nile view from the lounge’s terrace. Since 2007, Hiba has been developing her vocal techniques with celebrated Lebanese composer and producer, Oussama Rahbani. Tawaji and Sawt Music team chose Sheraton Cairo Hotel for her stay and press conference for its prime location in the heart of the city, leisure facilities and enriching culinary voyage through the variety of restaurants to give the star an authentic and unique first experience in Egypt.

Hilton Partners with UNICEF in Collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports Hilton recently announced partnering with UNICEF in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The partnership will see Hilton hotels across Egypt participating in the “Meshwary” Project – an initiative that helps build the skills of today’s youth through various training opportunities; providing young women and men with additional insights in problem solving, creative thinking and communication to prepare them for entering the workforce. An agreement was signed by Mohab Ghali, Vice President of Operations for Egypt & North Africa at Hilton, and Bruno Maes, UNICEF Representative in Egypt; whereby Hilton will offer internships and on job training opportunities to over 750 youth across its hotels in Egypt over the coming five years. The program will offer 45-day internships/job placement opportunities, where the participating youth will have the opportunity to shadow Hilton employees across the different operation departments including food and beverage, housekeeping, engineering, landscape, kitchen, front office and security. The program will kick off from Hilton Sharm Waterfalls Resort, and continue rolling out across all Hilton hotels in Egypt over the period of the five-year agreement.

Sameh Abdel Wahab - New General Manager of Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa Marriott international announced the appointment of Mr. Sameh Abdel Wahab as the General Manager of Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa. With over 40 years of experience and a diversified background in Rooms, Sales & Marketing and Operations, Abdel Wahab joined the company in 1977 as a member of the ITT Sheraton team, which later became part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Throughout his journey, he gained regional exposure moving from Sheraton Cairo and then Sheraton Heliopolis to Sheraton Al Hada Saudi Arabia, Sheraton Baghdad and Sheraton Dammam, where he worked as General Manager, achieving the highest revenue in the hotel’s history in 2014. In 2016, Abdel Wahab became the General Manager of Le Méridien Amman, where he managed the hotel until the end of 2017. Now, he is back in Egypt, his home country, as the new General Manager of Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa.

JW Marriott Cairo Hosts the Prominent Mahmoud Kabil JW Marriott Hotel Cairo hosted an exclusive Charms JW Ladies Society event, which was honored by the legendary actor and UNICEF ambassador Mr. Mahmoud Kabil, who was interviewed about his career and personal life by Mrs. Sahar Khairy, the hotel’s Guest Relations manager. The attendees were mesmerized by the enticing Lebanese restaurant offerings “Ahlein” prepared by JW’s talented Lebanese chef in a remarkable atmosphere along with the joyful DJ tunes and the unprecedented hospitality. Charms JW Ladies Society is an exclusive ladies club dedicated to enriching the lives of its members through an exciting program of events, seminars and social gatherings. In a cheerful surrounding, Yasmine Sherif, Multi Property Director of Marketing Communications JW Marriott & Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotels and Sahar Khairy welcomed guests upon their arrival.

MAY 2018 | Ct

TOWNTALK

Happening in Ramadan

Ramadan by the Nile At Hilton Zamalek This year, celebrate Ramadan differently in Hilton Zamalek. Feel the Nile breeze while enjoying your Sohour in the open air on a pool deck at “The Terrace”, where a unique Sohour menu has been prepared for you to choose from, along with a BBQ festival and flavoured shisha. Enjoy their daily live entertainment program and games like Backgammon and Domino throughout the night. Come along with your friends and family and break your fast with our famous Ramadan daily buffet at the main restaurant overlooking the stunning view of the Nile. For more information, please call 01001604031.

Welcoming the Holy Month of Ramadan at Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence Embrace the magical spirit of the holy month and celebrate it with Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence. Whether for Iftar or Sohour, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence offers a variety of exciting venues. For Iftar, it is all about La Gourmandise Ramadan Tent in the heart of the First Mall. Underneath the twinkling colorful lights of La Gourmandise’ stylish Ramadan Tent is an extravagant buffet offering traditional Ramadan favorites, all beautifully crafted and serviced by the Four Seasons’ artisans. If guests prefer to break their fast in the outdoors, they can enjoy two different special Iftar set menus in Shami/Syrian Restaurant Aura; exquisitely curated and prepared by Syrian Chef Nedal Hamadany, who draws his culinary inspiration from home cooked meals from his hometown in Damascus. Not only is it offering a Shami culinary experience for Iftar, but also creating inspirational nights for Sohour as families gather and catch up on the favorite Ramadan series in their own private cabanas with their screen TV as well as presenting an Egyptian inspired Sohour buffet by the pool with live entertainment by their side. However, some prefer a casual night out on the town, and therefore join La Gourmandise Ramadan Tent for Sohour and choose from its a la carte and shisha menu. For more information, please call the hotel directly or +20235671600 or to reserve for Iftar or Sohour, kindly call: +20235672018.

Ct | MAY 2018

Tradition Meets Style at the JW Marriott Cairo The time spent with family and friends during Ramadan is priceless, so let JW Marriott Hotel Cairo help you create memories to cherish by spending Iftar and Sohour there, where you will enjoy impeccable service and an exquisite culinary experience surrounded by the unique atmosphere of the holy month. Layaly Mirage presents legendary Iftar offerings at The Beach. Plateau features a la carte and family-style Iftar menus in addition to an extensive range of fine shisha selections. Ease into the welcoming evening vibes at Welad El Zawat at the Clubhouse Terrace, complete with a delicious Sohour buffet and live entertainment. Pick up your favorite hand crafted Arabic pastries from La Patisserie, and feel wonderful at Mandara and discover an enticing Ramadan spa package.

Enjoy A New Taste of Ramadan at “Jaz Collection”

Ramadan Delights at Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts in Egypt This Ramadan, indulge in an amazing holistic experience and savour the moments of perfect relaxation of the holy month by heading to one of the spiritual havens of Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts in Egypt. The hotels’ team has prepared special packages to harmonize your spirit and soul. Treat yourself and your family to a lavish stay at Steigenberger Alcazar in Sharm El Sheikh with your feet in the golden sand and the sparkling crystal clear water of the Red Sea just a few steps away. Feel the ultimate spiritual experience along the sun kissed glittering water of the Red Sea at one of Steigenberger adults-only hotels. Both hotels of Steigenberger Coraya in Marsa Alam and Steigenberger Makadi at Madinat Makadi have tailored packages to unwind your mind, body and soul. For a memorable family getaway at the heart of the city of Alexandria, book your stay at Steigenberger Cecil. To sense the authentic spirit of the month, gather your family and friends to devour the mouth-watering Iftar and Sohour traditional specialities prepared by Steigenberger El Tahrir talented chefs.

Celebrate Ramadan at Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel Renaissance Cairo Mirage City hotel welcomes Ramadan with authentic Iftar and Sohour offerings during the holy month. “Afandina” is the perfect spot to chill with your family and friends after a long day of fasting around the pool area with a delicious range of food during Iftar and Sohour, great shisha and live entertainment.

“Jaz Collection” invites visitors to come and experience the atmosphere of the holy month of Ramadan, offering special accommodation packages as well as Iftar and Sohour promotions throughout the month. With more than 45 hotels all over Egypt, “Jaz Collection” welcomes you with an array of authentic, inspiring and inviting venues in which to reflect, share and give thanks. The uniqueness of “Jaz Collection” lies in the renowned service standards and the diversity of choices; catering for ultimately every holiday need and taste.

Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Nile RitzCarlton, Cairo In the spirit of giving and precious gatherings, this year The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo invites guests to break their fast with an array of delicious food offerings at “Al Qahira” and “Alf Leila Wa Leila” Ballrooms, “Culina” restaurant as well as “Wust El Balad” Ramadan tent. Culina Restaurant The culinary team has put together a selection of gourmet Arabic and international delicacies for their extensive Iftar buffet experience. Main courses are provided through interactive cooking and molecular gastronomy stations for main courses and desserts that add an element of culinary theatre to the experience. Wust El Balad Ramadan Tent Located at the spacious garden, the hotel features a unique Ramadan tent for memorable Sohour nights and delicious shisha flavours, combining contemporary design with oriental accents.

“En Passant” offers you a wide range of oriental pasties and dessert to celebrate Iftar.

The tent includes large TV screens which will air the most popular TV shows and series of the season.

Create unique memories this Ramadan by bringing family and friends together at “Chinoix”, offering an a la carte menu.

Al Qahira and Alf Leila Wa Leila Ballrooms Suitable for big groups, the “Al Qahira” and “Alf Leila Wa Leila” ballrooms are ideal for family gatherings, offering a lavish set Sohour menus and Iftar buffets with an array of delicious food, including traditional Arabic dishes and beverage selections suitable to cater to every taste. With a dramatic fountain leading guests to their spacious foyer as well as exquisite chandeliers, upholstered walls and dreamy lighting creating a magnificent ambience in the main ballroom, the space welcomes guests with grace and refinement. For more information, please call +202 25778899 Ext: 2002. MAY 2018 | Ct

STYLE

GD Designs: Modernizing Antiquities By Noha Kandil

Ghada Dwaik, a 30-year-old architect and owner of GD Designs, found her passion in hunting treasures that could have otherwise gone to waste.

waik collects valuable vintage products and renovates them through combining her unique talent in lighting design with her unusual skills in electricity and wiring. Not only that, but she is keen on spreading the concept of up-cycling in Egypt, and transferring the knowledge she gained through her trials to those who are eager to learn.

In this interview, we learn more about Dwaik and her vision.

When and how did GD Designs come to life?

Is there a specified range of products that you work with?

Starting February 2017, I decided to quit my job and start my own brand. I began finding my own identity in what I love the most which is up-cycling vintage pieces and antiques. It is like I am able to give those pieces another chance to be in demand again.

At first, I loved product design and felt that I needed to explore more, but something was missing. I later found my true passion and devotion, which is lighting design.

Lighting design is a big part of any interior, yet not everyone is aware of its “rules”; can you tell us more about the nature of it?

To be honest, I wanted to start my own brand with something different, remarkable yet close to my personality. I like to dig deep and know the story behind each and every object/product in general, and lighting design is a passion of mine, so why not combine both?

Lighting, in general, adds to the vibe, mood and touch of any piece of furniture or any given space. You can say that lighting is the spice to your food. Although lighting has many features that some may see as a whole, but in fact, if we scale it down, we find different factors that each have their own effect. !ose factors complete each other in a harmonic way that gives you the “light unit” that you desire.

Ct | MAY 2018

!e design world now is fast-paced, always changing and challenging the designers to give their best that they sometimes forget the fact that the world has so many treasures which can be used in different ways. My selection has no limitations, as I am open to any old/vintage piece that has potential.

Can you take us briefly through your design process?

What is the most memorable project you have worked on?

I first find my treasures, then try to fix any parts that are broken or need to be changed, and then figure out a way to present them at their best, and finally light them up with love.

Every project has a little piece of me. I can say that my last project, that will be launched soon, took a bigger piece than the others because this time I got large scales to work on freely, collaborated with other designers whom I learnt a lot from and happily gave a chance to the upcoming designers to create and explore such a unique experience.

A part of lighting design depends on the electricity and wiring; is that something you had to learn? Do you have your own team of electricians, especially since you handle large commercial projects? At the beginning, electricity and wiring were a challenge for me until I mastered them and started to gather the pieces and light them up by myself. Afterwards, the scale of my projects increased, and so I started building up a team that includes both the electricians and designers as well, where we can all work together on larger projects.

Your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Creative Fairyâ&#x20AC;? workshops were very successful; can you tell us more about that experience? Was there a certain message that you stressed on?

Do you do individual projects like studios and apartments or just commercial ones?

For me, I love to pass on knowledge and experience to people as much as I can, so my workshop is just an implementation of what I love to do. People come to learn new things, find their designer side, and get inspired from others. I was surprised with their outcomes, and how they pushed themselves and gave all they have.

Our store in Galleria40 receives customers with different needs, and we adapt to each individual. I can proudly say that GD was a part of many projects, starting from giant projects to ministudios.

I was very happy with the experience overall, and I learned many things from them. Whenever I get another chance, I will launch Creative Fairy III.

Do you prefer creating out-of-the-ordinary pieces, or handling commercial projects from A to Z?

What is next for GD Designs? If you could name a future milestone, what would it be?

On one hand, what you get from the A to Z project is the pleasure of visualizing a certain mood, establish it in its best shape and form and end up with an installation that fits your desired mood and experience.

I would love to spread my designs internationally, but would rather spread the concept of up-cycling more. Not a lot of people do it, since it is very tempting to throw something away and get a brand new version of it.

On the other hand, the unique products develops a lot of skills, because it is always easier to start from scratch rather than from a piece that is already there and needs renovation. !e challenge lies in how to create the best outcome. Frankly speaking, hunting for unique products is my favorite because it always makes me discover more about myself.

My dream is to find regular people, designers and nondesigners, up-cycling their things, making use of their old and unwanted objects and not wasting materials.

MAY 2018 | Ct

STYLE

AYO: The Egyptian Brand

By Zaina Hassan

That Tells Stories Through Fashion Chances are, if you were asked to wear one outfit for the rest of your life, it would be a comfy, crisp t-shirt and jeans. However, let’s be honest here - finding the perfect basic t-shirt is tricky business.

hankfully, AYO, a new local fashion brand, has cracked the code with a line of basic and graphic tees that don’t include sassy French words or quirky hashtags. Instead, AYO understood the power of attracting emotions through strong storytelling, treating every piece as an individual saga; a vessel to tell a gripping narrative. Stopping by AYO’s showroom in Hacienda last summer felt like an ultimate museum experience, as each t-shirt was displayed in a glass frame, complemented by a plaque card on the wall telling a fictional story. Today, AYO stands as a popup shop and online retailer, emanating the same museum-like vibe. AYO launched its “!e Hits” series, a creatively unique episodic roll-out plan for their on-going collection, which was like a fashion soap opera, except each episode had a different underlying theme. AYO integrates word play, humour and wit into stories that connect to the onlookers, instigating conversation.

Ct | MAY 2018

AYO serves as a reminder that fashion is far more than just clothes; it is about experiences and elaborated messages. We sat with Taher Agameya, co-founder of AYO, to talk about his buzz-worthy entrepreneurial story. When did you start AYO and how did the idea come about? Ahmed Tayeh – my partner and old friend – and I were involved in our textile family businesses years back, which helped us understand the science of what makes a good t-shirt. So the idea started back when we were in school, and we knew that we could make a better quality t-shirt at a lower cost. What inspired you to create a line of streetwear tees in a time where wild themes are trending? I am not really into fashion and trends; I am a guy who wakes up every morning and wears a basic t-shirt, and I was fed up with going to foreign brands and buying one that changes shape every time you wash it. I knew I was not the only person going through that problem.

Where did the idea of the name originate from? AYO is a word pronounced by Alexandrians to express an ultimate feeling, both amazing and terrible, and we are very proud of our Alexandrian heritage. What is it like having your friend as a partner? We fight about many things – deadlines, colours, designs, models and shoots – and frankly speaking, it is just a matter of who is willing to fight longer. Our brand identity mentions that we will always give when there isn’t more to give, and at the end of the day we are in it to have fun. Sometimes we just need to remind ourselves of this. Our designer, Mohamed Abd Rabo, is the backbone of the business, so his input is also very important. I sometimes feel like the love we have for the project is as strong as our friendship and the love we have for each other. What do “!e Hits” represent? “!e Hits” are all theme-based shirts that express messages we want to sell. Our first is “Fit You”, which is about how you should find your fit in life and your identity. Once you do that, then you can find ultimate happiness, and this is all you need. To find your fit you must stay balanced, face your fears, know your strength, stay focused and believe in yourself. I took my camera with me everywhere and took some interesting shots, and that’s when we came up with the playful stories. From your first episode, what would you say is your favourite design and why? “Believe in Yourself” – the design is one of a donkey cart, with a shepherd named Mesut, beating a Ferrari. I hope that one day

AYO will be like Mesut, and that our small idea can not only compete with renowned brands, but also beat them at the game. Along with selling t-shirts, you also sell positive messages. What message will you be sending in the future? I can’t tell you anything except that it will be full of “hashtaka”. What do you think are the biggest mistakes that people make when starting a t-shirt brand? Everyone thinks fashion is always glamorous, but to me it is more than just aesthetics. Many people forget about the importance of the fit – when in reality a t-shirt is equal part design and equal part fit. We went as far as creating a size between medium and large. What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs? You will never be ready to start and you will never find the perfect time – just go for it and opportunities will open up. What can we expect from AYO in the future? People can expect a larger variety of products that target different age groups, release parties and a cartoon show with each episode of “!e Hits”. We are still dreaming big, and want to become an international brand, sold and known all over the world. Checkout AYO’s Instagram account: ayo.fityou

MAY 2018 | Ct

STYLE

Ct | MAY 2018

MARAK KIMONOS AND KAFTANS Marak features a wide selection of bright, textured, printed, sequined and embroidered kimonos, kaftans and cover-ups, offering something for every woman. All the pieces are made of the purest silk, linen and cotton, soft to the touch; bringing both comfort and style to every look. As each woman is unique, her own personal style can easily connect with the evolving designs featured in their Spring/Summer 2018 collection; contemporary garments for a woman looking for a more avant-garde creation while proud of her cultural roots. Using exceptional material and perfected intricate detail throughout each design, Marak is for a woman who identifies with style and her heritage. Marak delivers worldwide and you can check out all of their items on their website: www.sedamarak.com or via Instagram: @Marakseda

MAY 2018 | Ct

CULTURE Arts

Gallery Khan Al Maghraby Presents the Artwork of Five Young Artists Collective Art Exhibition Until May 13th Khan El Maghraby Art Gallery 18 Mansour Mohamed, Zamalek Cairo, Egypt

Joseph Elduwairy El Duwairy, a graduate from Helwan University’s Faculty of Art Education in 2000, seeks to portray how childhood is the root of our passion and spontaneity through simplicity, clear colors and attention to detail in his artistic works.

Esraa Zidan Esraa Zidan - a young, talented artist graduated at the top of her class with a BA from Helwan University’s Faculty of Applied Arts. Zidan got her Master’s degree in human anatomy through painting and a short diploma in figurative arts from Florence. Zidan was awarded a certificate of appreciation from the Egyptian Cultural Centre in Italy.

Ct | MAY 2018

Hala El Sharouny Expressionist artist Hala El Sharouny also graduated from Helwan University in 2004 and holds a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in painting and drawing. Her work is characterised by its dynamic, playful techniques that addresses contemporary social issues such as women and society with a twist of humor using a diverse and vibrant palette.

Kamila Bassioni Kamila Bassioni is a visual artist and freelance illustrator who received her B.A. in scenography from the Fine Arts College in 2009. Bassioni has made illustrations for books and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magazines like Katr El Nada and for the following publishing houses: Kalimat, Shagara and Dar Al Banan. She also participated in several group exhibitions in Egypt, Ireland and Poland and at the 7th International Biennale for the Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, 2016.

Samaa Yehia Yehia has a very unique artistic and emotional state that reflects her wellcultured character as a good reader of the present, with a vision for the future and a passion for heritage, specifically the khaiameya world that is loaded with decorations, motifs and past lives. Yehia embodies this dialogue through her very special palette and her cache of forms, boats and women, overwhelmed by carvings and decorations with significance in the popular imagination creating a state of joy and reflecting the spirit of an art aimed at making the viewer happy. !e artist redraws her forms, characters and artistic world on unusual surfaces, anticipating to what extent the recipient will interact with it, especially after viewing her former shows.

MaY 2018 | Ct

CULTURE Books

ith the approach of Ramadan, we are all reminded to dig down and get in touch with our spiritual side. Sometimes, certain books have that strong impact on our perspective on life, which is why we bring you some of the top influential self-help titles you can find in bookstores today.

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment By Eckhart Tolle Eckhart Tolle’s message is simple: living in the now is the truest path to happiness and enlightenment. While this message may not seem stunningly original, Tolle’s clear writing, supportive voice and enthusiasm make this an excellent manual for anyone who’s ever wondered what exactly “living in the now” means. Tolle is a world-class teacher who is able to explain complicated concepts in concrete language. More importantly, within a chapter of reading this book, readers are already seeing the world differently - more conscious of how thoughts and emotions get in the way of their ability to live in genuine peace and happiness. Tolle packs a lot of information and inspirational ideas into “!e Power of Now”, but thankfully adds markers that symbolize “break time”, which is when readers should close the book and mull over what they just read.

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose By Eckhart Tolle With his bestselling spiritual guide “!e Power of Now”, Eckhart Tolle inspired millions of readers to discover the freedom and joy of a life lived in the now. In “A New Earth”, Tolle expands on these powerful ideas to show how transcending our ego-based state of consciousness is not only essential to personal happiness, but also the key to ending conflict and suffering throughout the world. Tolle describes how our attachment to the ego creates the dysfunction that leads to anger, jealousy and unhappiness, and shows readers how to awaken to a new state of consciousness and follow the path to a truly fulfilling existence. “A New Earth” has been written as a traditional narrative, offering anecdotes and philosophies in a way that is accessible to all.

The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth By M. Scott Peck Confronting and solving problems is a painful process, which most of us attempt to avoid. !e very avoidance results in greater pain and an inability to grow both mentally and spiritually. Drawing heavily upon his own professional experience, Dr. M. Scott Peck, a practicing psychiatrist, suggests ways in which confronting and resolving our problems - and suffering through the changes - can enable us to reach a higher level of self-understanding. He discusses the nature of loving relationships: how to recognize true compatibility, how to distinguish dependency from love, how to become one’s own person and how to be a more sensitive partner.

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Quiet Power: Growing Up as an Introvert in a World That Can’t Stop Talking By Susan Cain Susan Cain sparked a worldwide conversation when she published “Quiet”. With her inspiring book, she permanently changed the way we see introverts and the way introverts see themselves. !e original book focused on the workplace, and Cain realized that a version for and about kids was also badly needed. !is book is all about kids’ world - school, extracurriculars, family life and friendship. You will read about actual kids who have tackled the challenges of not being extroverted and who have made a mark in their own quiet way. You will also hear Cain’s own story, and you will be able to make use of the tips at the end of each chapter. !ere’s even a guide at the end of the book for parents and teachers.

The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different - and far more satisfying - than he ever imagined. Santiago’s journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and most importantly, to follow our dreams.

The Celestine Prophecy By James Redfield “!e Celestine Prophecy” contains secrets that are currently changing our world. Drawing on ancient wisdom, it tells you how to make connections among the events happening in your own life right now, allowing you to see what is going to happen to you in the years to come! A book that has been passed from hand to hand since it first appeared in small bookshops across America, “!e Celestine Prophecy” is a piece of work that has come to light at a time when the world deeply needs to read its words. !e story it tells is a gripping one of adventure and discovery, but it is also a guidebook that has the power to crystallize your perceptions of why you are where you are in life, and to direct your steps with a new energy and optimism as you head into tomorrow.

Tuesday’s With Morrie By Mitch Albom Maybe it was a grandparent, or a teacher or a colleague. Someone older, patient and wise, who understood you when you were young and searching, and gave you sound advice to help you make your way through it. For Mitch Albom, that person was Morrie Schwartz, his college professor from nearly 20 years ago. Albom rediscovered Morrie in the last months of the older man’s life. Knowing he was dying of ALS - or motor neuron disease - Mitch visited Morrie in his study every Tuesday, just as they used to back in college. !eir rekindled relationship turned into one final “class”: lessons on how to live.

The Prophet By Kahlil Gibran Kahlil Gibran’s masterpiece, “!e Prophet”, is one of the most beloved classics of our time. Published in 1923, it has been translated into more than 20 languages. “!e Prophet” is a collection of poetic essays that are philosophical, spiritual, and, above all, inspirational. Gibran’s musings are divided into 28 chapters covering sprawling topics like love, marriage, children, work, joy and sorrow, housing, crime and punishment, laws, freedom, reason and passion, pain, self-knowledge, friendship, prayer, religion, pleasure, beauty and death.

MaY 2018 | Ct

CULTURE Events

EvEnts not to bE MissEd

La Bayadère BaLLet aLexandria Opera HOuse 12 and 13 May

La Bayadère is a four-act ballet by French choreographer Marius Petipa and was first performed in 1877 in Russia to the music of Ludwig Minkus. !is piece, that tells the story of the love between an Indian temple dancer and a warrior, will be presented by the Cairo Opera Ballet Company. Time: 8 pm

“deviL’s HOpe” – egyptian MOdern dance tHeatre cOMpany eL gOMHOuria tHeatre 10 to 12 May

!e Egyptian Modern Dance !eatre Company will be introducing the piece “Devil’s Hope” to art and dance enthusiasts. !is group has been active internationally as well as locally, being one-of-a-kind in the Arab World, and whose performances focus on the Egyptian and Arab civilizations.

KOLtHOuMiat araB Music institute 13 May A night dedicated to Om Kolthoum’s greatest hits. Time: 8 pm

Time: 8 pm

sOirée MusicaLe – MusHira issa cairO Opera HOuse – Main HaLL 11 May

Pianist Mushira Issa has become a famous musician both locally and internationally, playing in some of the largest orchestras worldwide, and will be presenting us with some of her best work during a Soirée Musicale night at the Cairo Opera House. Time: 8 pm

pacO renteria Music cOncert eL gOMHOuria tHeatre 7 May

Paco Rentería is considered as one of the most successful guitarists in Mexico. He composes, produces and edits his compositions himself, among which are music for the film “E1 Marichi” casted by Salma Hayek and Antonio Banderas and music for the trailer of the film “La Leyenda del Zorro” (Legend of Zorro) that features Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Time: 8 pm

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“el eyaal regaat” play el nahar theater 7 to 9 may A continuation to the popular “El Eyaal Kebret” play, this comedy show includes the return of Soso El Sokary and introduces the lives of Ramadan El Sokary’s grandchildren. Tickets are available at TicketsMarche. Time: 7 am

art exhibitiOn ZamaleK art gallery 29 april tO 21 may “Moments” paintings by artist Hana El Sagini and “Free, She Is” sculptures by Ahmed Abdel Tawwab will be on display at the Zamalek Art Gallery.

ramadan dOdgeball league sheratOn el matar

11 Brazil Street, Zamalek.

every saturday, monday and Wednesday

Looking for a sport to play during Ramadan? !is dodgeball league will include teams with 6 – 12 players who will compete to win! Registration is available at E7gezly. Time: 9 pm

Omar Khairat COnCert CairO Opera hOuse – main hall 13 and 14 may Legendary soloist Omar Khairat will entertain the crowd with his piano masterpieces.

Time: 8 pm

4biKe ride baghdad street, ZamaleK 11 may For all those sports enthusiasts out there, this group cycling event will definitely be one for the books. Tickets are available at TicketsMarche. Time: 7 am

MaY 2018 | Ct

CULTURE Films

Film My Design: Uniting Local Designers and Filmmakers

By Noha Kandil

Egypt’s entrepreneurial scene has been flourishing; nevertheless, only very few of the emerging startups/projects get applauded for raising the bar. Among the few is the “Film By Design” (FMD) project that combines two of the richest forms of art: filmmaking and design. !ree inspiring young Egyptian women joined forces to shed light on the aspiring local design community through filmmaking, aiming to create a collaborative platform connecting the two creative fields in a one-of-a-kind venture. !e final projects that will arise from this collaboration will be showcased and celebrated at FMD’s three-day annual event through a film screening and an exhibition. !e first edition of the event will take place at Darb 1718, from the 13th to the 15th of December 2018. In the following interview, the masterminds behind FMD share some insightful information about their new venture. Who are the founders? Us: Farah El-Rafei, Israa Ibrahim and Nada Salem. We are three Egyptian designers who graduated from the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. After graduation, we became very active in the Emirati and the Italian design scenes, in the fields of Exhibition Management, Interior Design and Product Design, and have seen how rich the design community is in both countries. When we looked at the design scene in Egypt, we found that even though there is a diverse pool of talented designers - the community is not as dominant and well promoted; this applies both locally and internationally. It is for this reason that we decided to establish the FMD startup in Egypt. How did the “Film My Design” project start? We were inspired by international design-film festivals, which screen design-centered films. !ey visually engage the viewers in the story rather than simply featuring the final products in an exhibition space. Since this type of event doesn’t exist in the region, we decided to establish a first-of-its-kind initiative that intends to establish Egypt as the forerunner in the regional design scene. “Film My Design” aims to establish a community of Egyptian designers and filmmakers who collaborate to produce design-film documentaries. !e idea is to create a platform that showcases and celebrates the design process through film.

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We intend to focus on the “design process” to reveal all the different stages involved in the production and evolution of a product. !is is to provide a more comprehensive understanding of design. In order to showcase something that is as complex as the design process in a way that it is both engaging and informative to the public, we decided that film would be the best communication tool, as it can drive a cultural and social impact by evoking a more personal and emotional connection with the presenter. Why is it necessary for filmmakers and designers to collaborate? FMD introduces a new means of self-expression for the filmmakers and a different outlet for the designers to tell their stories. Film is a great marketing tool for the designers to promote and explain their unique practices to a broader and more diverse audience. It documents and showcases the unique ways in which they think and allows them to share their inspirational success stories to the public. Our aim is to also showcase the documentaries at international design-film festivals and relevant events to promote local designers and filmmakers to international audiences. Is there a certain criteria based on which you choose the filmmakers and featured designers? Following the application deadline, the FMD team will then assess the submitted material, including project briefs and work samples, then select the final participants per the following

Designers: Would the designer’s story create a social/emotional impact? Is the story culturally relevant? How appealing and inspirational is the story? How appealing and unique is the story to creative practitioners, design students and the public?

necessary addition to the Egyptian design and film landscapes. It gave us a realistic, first-hand experience on the process of filmmaking generally, and on the design-related filmmaking specifically.

!e designer’s approach in producing their product in terms of ideation, research, technique, materials, resources, tools, etc should be unique.

!e plot revolves around five designers and five filmmakers, who collaborate to tell different design stories. !e designers came from different fields, and they each have their own approaches.

Filmmakers: Simulation of experiences, communication of ideas, stories, perceptions, feelings, visual aesthetics, sound, scene and character design, film-editing, dialogs, special effects, and choreography. Creativity, uniqueness and experimentation in filmmaking techniques, approach, style and cinematography are also important.

!e participating filmmakers played an essential part in the film fabric. !ey also added a unique layer of depth to the whole film, because they each worked on their own short documentaries. !erefore, the end results were five short documentaries and a longer, more comprehensive documentary that provided a broader narrative to everything.

In the lead up to the event, selected designers and filmmakers are then required to form teams; each designer will work alongside a filmmaker over three months.

All in all, the film gives us a glimpse into the daily lives of the designers at their studios and a “behind the scenes” look at the collaboration between the designers and their respective filmmakers.

To what extent are you involved in the filming process? We don’t restrict the filmmakers, so how they wish to approach their documentaries in terms of shooting and content is totally up to them. Yet, to ensure the best outcome and further push diversity and creativity, we highly encourage that the participating filmmaker explores different techniques and perhaps integrates other disciplines into their production, like graphics, stop motion and animation. !e filmmakers have the liberty to choose how they would like to showcase their respective participating designers so long as they feature a clear presentation of the design process. We want this to be a challenging project where filmmakers are asked to produce design-centric documentaries that are creative, meaningful, inspirational and educational while tackling the different conventions of filmmaking. What role do you play in balancing between the filmmaker’s vision and letting the designer tell their own story? Although it is very important for the documentaries to express diversity and highlight the unique style of each filmmaker, they also need to be within the realm of the FMD project, which is showcasing the design process through film. We ensure that this is communicated clearly through our participation packs. Also, to facilitate the collaboration and introduction between the designers and filmmakers, a meet-and-greet session will be held. !is entails a “PechaKucha” informal presentation session where each participating filmmaker and designer is given a few minutes to introduce themselves and their previous work to the rest of the group. Following this session, designers and filmmakers will cross-review profiles to select one participant with whom they would like to collaborate.

What are the main success indicators for FMD? Our first success indicator would be when talented emerging designers and filmmakers are first recognized and brought to light through “Film My Design”. We believe that there are many hidden local talents that deserve a creative platform like FMD, which will provide them the exposure and opportunity to showcase and celebrate their work and practices. Another success indicator is our ability to raise public awareness about design and what it entails. Experiencing the design process has a much greater impact because it triggers ideas and builds an admiration of a certain design discipline. It also gives a deeper appreciation of the craft and changes perceptions or even career goals of younger audiences to certain professions. What are some of the obstacles you faced with this project? Our main challenge is financing our initiatives/events, but we are fortunate to bump into individuals and entities who are interested in working with us on a partnership basis. How do you see FMD in the future? FMD aims to develop an archive of design-film documentaries that capture and document the evolution and development of both creative fields in Egypt. We intend for “Film My Design” to act as a means of documentation. Even though there have been recent efforts to archive Egyptian design practices, we believe that there still exists a major gap. Not only will this platform promote creative practitioners, namely designers/artisans and filmmakers in the region, but it will also become a great source of information and knowledge for schools, universities, educational institutes and the creative community as a whole.

How is your first documentary coming along? We produced an introductory documentary that showcases what FMD is all about. To produce it, we partnered with the talented film production house “Flink Studios”.

FMD aims to establish Egypt as a precursor for the dualistic relationship between design and film, so that it creates a strong precedent for this community in the MENA region and in the world.

!e aim of the introductory documentary was to test our idea on the ground. We wanted to make sure that our initiative is a

All application forms for designers and filmmakers are available to download at: filmmydesign.com/applications MaY 2018 | Ct

FEATURE

advertorial

HOW TO SPEND IFTAR DIFFERENTLY THIS YEAR During the month of Ramadan, many aspects seem to be centered around food: when, where and what we are going to eat. Instead of the usual Iftar outing, we thought about providing you with a few out-of-the-box ideas on how to spend it a little differently.

ON A FELUCCA !ere are several variations to this. To begin with, for several years in a row now during Ramadan, boats such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fel-Feluccaâ&#x20AC;? have become a popular choice for Iftar, as you get to experience sailing on the Nile in an elegant setting. Catering is included, and so all you have to do is reserve, show up with the minimum number of people required and take a seat on the beautifully decorated felucca. Although more expensive than your ordinary felucca, the relaxing atmosphere while chatting with friends and family and feasting on a tasty Iftar is definitely worth the difference. However, if you are into the more traditional choice, then you could also step aboard one of the popular feluccas, keeping in mind that you are going to have to take care of the food arrangements.

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PICNIC Regardless of who you choose to spend this day with, you can never go wrong with a picnic. Since many people are unable to really dig into the food after a day of fasting, opting for a lighter Iftar doesn’t sound like a bad idea. All you have to do is prepare a basket with sandwiches, cold salads and drinks, and head to one of the public or private parks, like Family Park or Azhar Park, to enjoy the day. You could always go a little earlier, providing you are prepared with an icebox, to enjoy the greenery, take a walk and set up a nice blanket on the ground. After eating, you can top the evening off with some tea or Turkish coffee if you have a portable fire pit on hand.

ON THE BEACH Although many people stray away from the beach during Ramadan to avoid the heat waves, among many other reasons, it remains as a very peaceful option for Iftar. Not far from the idea of a picnic, you could always travel to Ein Sokhna or the North Coast, and head out a little before sunset when the sun’s peak has ended but giving you enough time to enjoy the view, and set your blanket on the sand. !ere is something magical about watching the sunset with the view of the sea, and in the case of Ein Sokhna, the mountains. Since many people avoid beach destinations during that month, you will be able to enjoy the light meal that you ordered or packed yourself as well as the view in a state of serenity, which will definitely result in a unique Iftar experience that you will remember.

THEMED DINNER PARTY Everyone awaits special occasions for the invitation to delicious meals at a cozy home, and that is actually what comes with Ramadan. However, instead of the regular Iftar dinner, you can opt for a themed dinner party to add a little to the fun.

HORSE-RIDING OR CAMEL-RIDING For the minimalistic people out there who enjoy the simpler things in life, with a little touch of adventure, then you could always head to the Pyramids and enjoy a few hours of horse or camel riding before heading to a Bedouin seated area. When it’s time, you can enjoy a traditional Bedouin feast, followed by tea on an open fire. !is night will opt for a very different approach to Iftar, but the peace and quiet that comes with it will definitely make it a Ramadan to remember.

Whether you choose a Galabeya (traditional dress) and a traditional theme, or a sixties one, definitely leave some room for the guests to use their imagination. Regardless of your choice, make sure that the decorations, table settings and even the food relate to the chosen theme, and even set up a game or activity after the meal to keep people energized. !is will be an unforgettable Ramadan night for both you and your guests.

ON A YACHT If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, then having Iftar on a yacht will definitely fulfill that. Since Ein Sokhna is the closest possible option that will not tire you out if you are going and coming back on the same day, then arrange with one of the boat owners for a day of fishing and feasting! Most of the boats you can rent out offer you a lunch/dinner option, or you can prepare your own meal beforehand and let them store it for you. You can start off the day early, enjoying a cruise through the water, dolphin-watching and fishing, before preparing for your meal that you will be sharing with your loved ones, or you can go just before sunset, enjoy the view and the company before heading back to shore.

MAY 2018 | Ct

FEATURE

The History of the Fanous

or decades now, with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, people show their celebratory mood by decorating their homes or shops with the traditional Fanous, which is the Arabic term for a lantern. Ramadan is one of the most awaited Islamic events of the year, where Muslims practice patience, forgiveness and generosity by fasting and giving to charity, among other actions.

Unknown to many however, is the origin of this Fanous and how it became a symbol of the holy month. To begin with, the word itself is of Greek origin, “ ”, which translates to “light” or “lantern”, and was used as an expression of hope reflecting the “light in the darkness”. !e Fanous today is a mix between Islamic design and Egyptian folklore, incorporating copper and colored glass for a cheerful effect. !e larger, more traditional ones are usually hung from balconies, windows or ropes that connect from building to building to announce the commencement of Ramadan, whereas you can also find smaller ones as key chains or decorations, that usually light up using a battery or a form of electricity. Handmade Fanous’ are usually made from copper, iron or bronze, and crafted in Sayeda Zeinab, Al-Mosqy Square and Al-Attaba, to name a few.

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Ancient Egypt Dating all the way back to the Pharaohs, the Fanous looked more like a lamp, but with a candle in the middle. Some say that the display of these lanterns signaled the arrival of the Nile flood, while others mention that they were torches used during Pharaonic festivals that celebrated the birth of Osiris, Isis, Horus, Seth and Nephtys, as well as the rising of the star Sirius. However, during this period of time, these lanterns did not have the shape of the Fanous that we all know today.

Fatimid Dynasty !is is when most people agree was the beginning of the Fanous tradition in Ramadan. !e Fatimids are said to have been the first to introduce lanterns to Egypt, the birthplace of the Fanous. At first used as a means to see in the dark during night walks, the lanterns were seen heavily during the Fatimid caliphate when the Egyptians greeted the leader Al-Muizz li-Din Allah carrying the Fanous upon his arrival in the country on the 15th of Ramadan of 358 AH. Also appearing during that dynasty, the children accompanied the Caliph Al Hakim Bi-Amr Illah while carrying lanterns and singing songs, as he would check the moon to mark the beginning of Ramadan. It is said that the Caliph later ordered the mosques in Egypt to hang these lanterns outside at sunset to indicate to the Muslims that it was time to break their fasts. !e Fanous was also used at that time for safety measures for women to make sure that Cairo was illuminated during the hours of the night, to make it safe for them to walk in the streets for late prayers or for family visits.

Today !e aspect that these decades have in common is that Egyptians loved to celebrate, even thousands of years ago, and to do that, light was a huge factor. Ramadan to Muslims is also seen as a month of hope and purity, which is exactly what the Fanous symbolizes. Nowadays, even weeks before the arrival of the holy month, you can spot the Fanous sellers in every street, displaying every shape, from the traditional ones, to the more modern ones, and there is no doubt that this specific tradition holds dear to the Egyptiansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hearts, whether young or old. Used all over the world now, the Fanous is not only used for religious purposes, but for decorative ones as well.

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COMMUNITY Real People

Ahmed FArAg: The egypTiAn prodigy Living in The ShAdowS

By Noha Kandil

he only Egyptian with a Master’s degree in oboe, and as the youngest conductor in Egypt, Ahmed Farag is also a music instructor and the author of two published books, before even turning 30.

Most striking about Farag is not the immensity of his accomplishments, but that he does not have an ounce of ego to display. He merely sees his achievements as opportunities not to be taken for granted. His main inspirations come from Dr. !arwat Okasha; the former Minister of Culture, and the mastermind behind the arts and culture revolution in Egypt. We sat down with the inspiring young artist to find out how he accomplished so much at such a young age.

How did you get into music? My mother and older sister are into the arts, but my sister was already studying theatre, so they wanted me to explore another form. I entered the conservatoire at the age of ten, and this is basically how I got into music.

Why did you choose the oboe in particular? It was a total coincidence. Before entering the conservatoire, they usually ask applicants what instrument they wish to

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study and play, and I remember my mother telling me to stay away from the oboe and to choose the flute or trumpet, because they are more convenient price-wise. However, I somehow got confused between the trumpet and oboe, and I chose the latter. !ey told me that my anatomy structure goes well with it because of my small hands and chubby lips. An oboe’s price back then was around 32,000 EGP, now at 200,000 EGP; and so you can only imagine how my mother felt that day.

What made you continue studying and succeeding in At first I was just a kid, so I was basically doing what I was told up until the third year, when I felt really demotivated as I wasn’t doing that great with the oboe. Also, my instructor and mentor back then, Eric Kocinski, left that year due to sickness; and just before he left, he had become less tolerant with me, which made me question my capabilities. I got really sick that year and couldn’t go out, so I studied and practiced more than ever. When my instructor got back, he saw a huge improvement in my performance, and started allocating more time to help me.

Can you tell us more about the nature of the instrument? Playing an instrument, especially the oboe, is like playing a sport. It requires daily practice, and almost every muscle of your body is used, especially at the beginning. Also, the oboe requires long breaths and the ability to control them as it has a very small hole through which you control the sounds. It also takes a lot of time to be able to tolerate the pressure induced by blowing breaths for long hours without getting dizzy.

When did you start playing as part of an orchestra? During my third year of high school, I auditioned for the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, but I was rejected despite the fact that my performance was really good. I later learned that it was not really a rejection, but that the prominent Conductor Nader Abbassi, who was one of the judges back then, wanted me to be a part of the Cairo Symphony Orchestra instead. !at was the first time I was professionally a part of an orchestra, which was unusual for someone without a college degree.

Being a soloist at the Cairo Opera House is a dream for many musicians. Why did you feel the need to travel? Since 2004, when I joined the Opera, my experience had been enriched massively compared to anyone my age. My mentor started urging me to travel to further develop my talent and knowledge. Also, back then, the Opera House paid for the flight tickets of musicians who wanted to study abroad, so following my first year in college, I applied for a master summer class in Blonay, Switzerland, and travelled for a week. !e class took place in a summer house, where instructors and students gathered to learn and play daily freestyle music sessions, in addition to mingling with one another and exploring the beautiful surroundings. After that week, I became more eager to travel and started looking for scholarship programs.

Said Foundation, to study in Germany or France. However, I have always wanted to go back to Switzerland, and so I thankfully got accepted at the Haute École de Musique de Genève, where I stayed for seven years!

What exactly did you study then? I finished my Bachelor’s music degree in three years, then I did my Master’s, specializing in the oboe, for two years. I took conducting as a selective course, and I fell in love with it as I could express myself more freely, which is why I decided to do another Master’s for an additional two years.

How did you get by in Switzerland at such a young age? Barenboim wasn’t very happy with my choice, and it took them months to provide me with another grant, so I had to live with only 400 Francs in one of the most expensive countries in the world. I had no insurance, no extra money, I didn’t want to ask my parents for help, and if I went back to Egypt, I would be seen as a failure. I lived with my instructor, but I was only 18, and it was hard to get work with a decent salary because I had no permit, so I jumped between jobs. I worked as a security personell at a museum for a while and as a baby sitter on other days; all of that while attending school in the morning.

Playing an instrument, especially the oboe, is like playing a sport. It requires daily practice, and almost every muscle of your body is used, especially at the beginning.

How did you end up spending seven years in Geneva? It all started when my instructor, Alexander Gattet, who is a well-known soloist at the prestigious Paris Orchestra Symphony, suggested that I apply to the scholarship program offered by the Conservatoire de Paris. I took his advice, but unfortunately did not make it through the first exam round. I was really upset that all my hard work had gone to waste, in addition to spending a lot of money that I saved specifically for that trip. However, I ended up taking a couple of classes with the instructor, and Monsieur Gattet offered me a brand new oboe for free; the one that I am still using until today. !at oboe was my lucky charm, because just months later, I got accepted to play and tour with the international WestEastern Divan Orchestra led by Conductor Daniel Barenboim and Academic Edward Said. It was a turning point in my career, and the first time to be exposed to such diverse talents from around the world. After touring almost all of Europe, Conductor Barenboim had noticed me and offered me a scholarship from the Barenboim

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COMMUNITY Real People I can learn something through music and use it in writing, and vice versa. !ey all help me to express parts of me.

!ings started looking up after a while: I applied for another scholarship and received 8,000 Francs, which turned my life around. When Barenboim sent me the additional 2,000 Euros that I applied for, I was also granted another scholarship worth 15,000 Francs, and things kept getting better. I moved to a students’ hostel and started performing independent indie concerts.

How did you start writing? It happened during my last two years in Geneva, when I decided I was going back to Egypt after finishing my Master’s in conducting. I was overwhelmed with nostalgia towards the end of my stay, and I did not want those seven years to go by undocumented. !e initial idea was to write a joint letter, and provide copies to all the people who impacted me during my stay, but as I started writing, I knew that one letter would not be enough, and so I kept going.

Yes and no. My time in Geneva was my main inspiration, and I wanted to document it, but as I went on writing, I developed this new ability to create and add to the story; or even deduct from it in some cases. For instance, there is no way I could have mentioned every single person that impacted me, so I would gather three of them into one character, and blend the situations. I wanted to translate the book after finishing it, but I could not convey the same emotions I had in another language, and hiring a translator would have been expensive.

As much as I loved Geneva, I felt like I had done all I could there. I wanted to come back and experience life after growing up, and see how the new me would do. I wrote down the goals I wanted to achieve, the obstacle I might face, and I was ready. Unfortunately, the excitement and drive I had did not last more than a year. I spent a whole year putting my heart and soul into teaching the oboe at the conservatoire, for free. I was waiting to be granted the accreditation and the equivalent degree, but I hit a dead end when they offered me one that was not in my field! !e certificates I had were equivalents to Doctorates in oboe and conducting, but they did not give them to me because I was too young.

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In the end, I refused to accept the degree they offered, sacrificing a prestigious position and a very good salary. Now, I work with my Bachelor’s degree as an oboe soloist at the Cairo Opera House, and as a part-time music teacher for three-year-olds at an international school, to make ends meet. Of course I am not fine with the unfairness of the situation, but I try to look on the bright side; I had a good run, and no one can take that from me. Conducting is not a part of my contract, because of my age once again. However, I do it every once in a while whenever they ask me, but as an extra gig. I conducted the Golden Cockerel by Rimsky Korsakov - Cairo Opera Symphony, as well as the Prokofiev Roméo et Juliette, First Suite - Karlovy Vary Symphony Orchestra. My most memorable experience was when I got to conduct the Neojiba Orchestra in Brazil, which was a part of a youth program dedicated to getting kids and teenagers off the streets and teaching them music to allocate their energy towards something useful. After settling down in Egypt, I started looking for publishing houses. Before that, I wanted to evaluate my writing first, and luckily got introduced to Dr. Alaa Al Aswany. He read my book and told me that it was worth publishing, which gave me the confidence to continue. He also advised me to focus on writing solely if I really wanted to succeed.

and writing? I believe I learn something different from everything I do, and they are all connected in a way. I can learn something through music and use it in writing, and vice versa. !ey all help me to express parts of me. I also need to be practical; at this point in my life, I can’t rely on writing to get by. I am trying to be optimistic, remaining thankful for what I have accomplished at a young age. Even though things did not go as planned since I came back to Egypt, I believe I have been compensated and blessed in other ways.

Real Real Estate Estate

OUD LaUnches new FLagship prOject: azaDir

rientals for Urban Development (OUD) has marked a strong comeback as a leading real estate developer in the Egyptian market by announcing the launch of its new flagship project, Azadir, in the heart of New Cairo. Azadir, the name is derived from the enchanting Neem tree which is also known as Azadirachta Indica, will be home to vast green spaces and more than 100 Neem trees. !is year-round tree has a strong positive impact on the environment and is claimed to cure a myriad of human diseases. Spanning a total area of 69,550 sqm, Azadir is conveniently located near the Middle Ring Road and South 90 Street, only a few minutes from the American University in Cairo, Point 90, and New Cairo’s greatest attractions and hot spots. More than 81% of the development is dedicated to vast green spaces and colorful flora, with lovely trails and walkways swaying in between. Moreover, the spacious landscape is mostly roadless, making it a safe and secure community for kids to play. Azadir is set to be a pollution- and noise-free neighborhood. !e launching of Azadir comes right after the “We Are OUD” campaign that took the city by storm last month, announcing the company’s comeback after a promotional hiatus that lasted several years. During this period, the company focused on developing its rich portfolio of living and working communities in Cairo and Marsa Allam.

Ct | MAY 2018

Inertia’s G-Cribs:

Where Luxury Meets Simplicity

nertia, the dynamic real-estate developer with projects in Cairo, on the Mediterranean Sea and on the Red Sea, is targeting younger generations with their project G-Cribs in El Gouna.

For those looking for modern, yet affordable units in a key location that will allow access to El Gouna’s luxurious lifestyle and services, this project introduces everything from studios to three-bedroom apartments. “Inertia is always keen to base their projects on three main factors: meeting delivery dates, committing to have youthful thinking and creating the right partnerships to deliver fast

implementation,” mentions Mr. Ahmed Mokbel, Board Member and Marketing and CRM Vice-President. Located within the mansions of El Gouna, G-Cribs is comprised of 324 residential units on a total of ten feddans all overlooking greenery and eight swimming pools, and is split up into two phases. G-Cribs Phase I has been established and delivered in 2016, whereas Phase II will be delivered in 2019. Not short on facilities, G-Cribs Phase II offers heated swimming pools with state-of-the-art finishing and interiors, elevators, generators, security and a clubhouse where residents can socialize and workout in the fully equipped area.

MAY 2018 2018 || Ct Ct MAY

BUSINESS

Celebrating egypt’s relationship with MexiCo: An Interview with the Ambassador By Rawan Abdel Latif

Evolve Business Development Solutions Leads Management Agreement Signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Mangroovy El Gouna Resort

fter a few months of extensive and thorough negotiations to reach the most suitable hotel operator, the executive team of Evolve Business Development Solutions has successfully concluded the management agreement signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Mangroovy El Gouna Resort. Mangroovy For Real Estate & Tourism Investment appointed Evolve Business Development Solutions to be its exclusive hospitality consultancy firm to manage the process of acquiring and selecting an international hotel operator to manage its first hospitality project in El Gouna. !e upscale DoubleTree by Hilton Mangroovy El Gouna Resort is due to open in 2020 and will feature 179 modern and tranquil rooms and suites, direct access to the beach, a pool bar, a specialty restaurant, a health club, a spa and a meeting/banquet space on over 1,000 sqm. !e resort will act as the focal point of the Mangroovy Residence compound, containing over 700 residential units on the unique and famous Mangroovy beach, alongside water sports facilities, multiple swimming pools and a club house, in addition to a number of restaurants at the beachfront and in the resort.

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Azza Serry, Chairman of Evolve Business Development Solutions, commented, “!is is one of the most exciting hotel management deals to conclude this year. It is a real pleasure working with the professional owners of Mangroovy For Real Estate & Tourism Investment, led by Mrs. Mona El Sewedy, and the signing of the new DoubleTree by Hilton Mangroovy El Gouna Resort, in a top destination like El Gouna, is a great addition to the DoubleTree by the Hilton brand in Egypt.” Seen in the photo from right to left: Bassam Hafez, CFO, Mangroovy; Ahmed El Sewedy, President and CEO, El Sewedy Electric; Mona El Sewedy, Chairman, Mangroovy For Real Estate & Tourism Investment; Azza Serry, Chairman and CEO, Evolve Business Development Solutions; Carlos Khneisser, VP Development, Hilton MENA & Turkey, and Habiba El Kerdany, Vice Chairman and Chief Marketing Officer, Evolve Business Development Solutions. Evolve is a boutique consultancy and management firm that specializes in the hospitality industry through a broad spectrum of functions. It offers services in the fields of Strategic Business Planning, Market Research & Studies, Business Development & Marketing Consultancy, Distribution & E-Commerce, Operational Finance, Human Resources, Training & Development and Hospitality Management.

TRAVEL

Spiritual Traveling in India: A YOGA RETREAT BY KATHARINA FROEHLICH

Time spent in India has an extraordinary effect. India will teach us the tolerance and gentleness of a mature mind, understanding spirit and a unifying, pacifying love for all human beings. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TAHRIR SHAH

Ct | MAY 2018

ndia truly is a country like no other, where traffic comes to a halt because a cow is crossing the street and where monkeys jump out of trees in the middle of the city to steal your sunglasses. Although the country faces extreme poverty, it seems to be the richest when it comes to happiness and hope. To really understand India, I would recommend reading a book before your trip to get a deeper understanding of it. My personal favorite novel is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holy Cow - An Indian Adventureâ&#x20AC;? by Sarah Macdonald, which describes the idiosyncrasies of the areas very well. Know that once you visit India, you will make up your mind quickly whether you love it or hate it.

Why Practice Yoga in India? For travelers who are familiar with Asia, it is a known fact that if you want parties you go to !ailand, if you are interested in hiking and mountain climbing you go to Nepal and if your aim is to improve your yoga and meditation skills, India is the place to go! Yoga is a mix of physical, mental and spiritual practices, which have origins tracing back to India. !ere is a wide variety of practices that have been used by millions for more than 2,000 years. India surely has many wonderful sights, but what I heard from many travelers was that the most memorable experience always had something to do with self-exploration and getting lost in the captivating places of India, the birthplace of yoga. For the Indians, yoga is a lifestyle and a tradition. When you go there, one of the first things you will ask yourself is how the Indians can keep themselves so happy in the midst of all the craziness, later finding out that it is because yoga is a well-established part of their daily lives.

MAY 2018 | Ct

TRAVEL

!e beaches help make the city an Top Five Yoga Destinations in India unforgettable heat during the summer,place being 2,000 meters above sea level. A and give MCLEOD GANJ (HIMACHAL PRADESH) five-day beginner course costs EGP 1500. Accommodation is available through their many guest houses located in the center, McLeod Ganj is a town in the Himalayas that is home to a large you the chance with prices starting from EGP 200 per night. community of Tibetan refugees, and is also where the main spiritual leader of Buddhism, the Dalai Lama, came from. to combine Website: hiyogacentre.com After a one-hour walk up the mountain from McLeod Ganj, you RISHIKESH (UTTARPRADESH) sightseeing with will reach the beautiful Village of Dharamkot, which is home to the Iyengar Himalayan Yoga Centre. Rishikesh is home to many of the most famous serenit y Ashrams in India, which are a type of spiritual hermitage that allows you to connect

Iyengar Yoga is a little different than the other types as it requires props for almost every pose. !e main instructor, Sharat Arora, learned the practice from the founder of Iyengar Yoga, BKS Iyengar.

Arora says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yoga is not just for a yogi to gain enlightenment and freedom, but also for the common man to be peaceful and happy, learning to adapt to the present environment and adopt a lifestyle that brings harmony.â&#x20AC;? Since Dharamsala is located in the north of India in the Himalayan Mountains, it is the perfect escape from the Indian

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your stay with a few classes like yoga and meditation. !e most famous Ashrams in Rishikesh are the Phool Chatti, the Sivananda and the Parmarth Niketan.

To my delight, I stayed at the Parmath Niketan, one of the most famous Ashrams worldwide, which offers extensive yoga programs for beginners. Every evening, the Ganga Aarti - a religious ritual where fire is used as an offering to the goddess of the River Ganges - takes place around sunset.

Rishikesh is internationally known as the Yoga Capital of the world, hosting the annual International Yoga Festival in March. !is occasion invites thousands of people of different nationalities to practice yoga together, while enjoying music therapy, Mantras and cultural events like film screenings and concerts.

Yoga is not just for a yogi to gain enlightenment and freedom, but also for the common man to be peaceful and happy.

I would also recommend visiting the waterfalls that are a short walk from the village. Two yoga classes, three meals and a double room are for EGP 100 per day. Websites: internationalyogafestival.org - parmarth.org

PUNE (MAHARASHTRA) I reached Pune after a 20-hour local train ride from New Delhi, which was definitely not the best choice if you are looking for comfort. !ere are also direct local flights to the town from most Indian airports and international flights to Mumbai, which is just a two-hour car ride away. Pune became a popular destination for yogis in the 1970s when Osho Meditation Resort was founded. Osho, whose actual name was Rajneesh Candra, was a popular Indian philosopher and originator of dynamic meditation, a new type that involved letting go of any past attachments your future ego. Even though Osho passed away in 1990, the Ashram itself is still as vibrant as ever, attracting a lot of foreign visitors daily. !e courses offered start from 6 am and include silent meditations or celebratory dance meditations. Most of the meditations are accompanied by tailored music, which indicates the beginning of a new phase. One night in the resort costs EGP 900 and does not include the cost of the program or courses. Cheaper options are available outside of the resort. !e meditation pass will cost you EGP 500 per day and offers access to all the classes, courses and nightlife such as the full-moon meditations beneath the stars. Website: osho.com/visit

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DESTINATIONS Travel TRAVEL GOKARNA (KARNATAKA) After having spent a lot of time in the mountains and inside of the country, I felt the need to refresh myself with a stay on the beach. I had actually never heard about Gokarna before, but found out about it by chance from a traveler when I was in McLeod Ganj. Gokarna is a town on the beach next to Goa in southern India, that’s name translates to “ear of the cow”, originating from the myths that Shiva came out of the cow Prithvi’s ear in the town. !ere are several yoga schools in Gokarna, but I personally prefer the Shree Hari Yoga Centre. Tucked behind a tranquil beach on the Indian Ocean and bordering the lush vegetation of the jungle, Shree Hari Yoga offers walk-in classes and retreats that are open to all levels. !e retreats can be booked for a stay between three and 14 days. Breathing techniques, philosophy, cleansing techniques and group discussions are also included in their daily programs. If you are interested, there is also the possibility to attend a 200hour certified Yoga Teacher Training which will allow you to teach anywhere in the world. !e four-week stay’s cost starts from EGP 26,000 including accommodation, classes and meals. Website: shreehariyoga.com

AUROVILLE (TAMIL NADU) !e magical Auroville is an international city which is currently home to 2,500 people from 49 nations. It was built in 1968 by

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people from 129 different countries and has the purpose to realize unity in diversity. I myself felt mesmerized when I first visited and saw how so many people of different origins could live together so peacefully above all creeds, politics and nationalities while bearing the same goal in their minds. Many Aurovilians are practicing Integral Yoga as described by Sri Aurobindo, after who the town is named. !e purpose of Integral Yoga is the transformation to a divine way of life. !e main guesthouse in Auroville offers different kinds of rooms according to your budget. Website: auroville.org

THE RELIGIONS Hinduism is the main religion in India, occupying 80% of the population, followed by Islam at 14%. Hindus believe that there are 33 main deities, each having a special gift to protect the believers in different ways. Opposite to common belief, Hindus don’t worship the cow, but rather honor it. All animals are sacred in the religion and the cow represents all of them. Indian Hindus live their religion very openly, and so being openminded and having an interest in culture is a must if you decide to travel to India!

MOTHER GANGA !e river Ganga is the second longest in the country, being famous in India and to Hindus around the world for its holiness, as many pilgrimage sites are located directly on its banks. !e Hindus believe that the river can free them from their sins, so they come to purify themselves from bad deeds. An interesting custom is that even the funerals take place on the bank of the river, where the body is sprinkled with water while prayers and hymns are sung.

THE SADHUS When I first arrived in India, I noticed that there were many middle-aged or older men wearing nothing more than a very loose piece of cloth around their lower body, sometimes accompanied with a light robe. Not always, but quite often, they paint their faces white, red, yellow or another color according to the deity they have devoted themselves to. !ese are Sadhus who have been in India for 2,000 years and who consider themselves holy men who are dedicated to an ascetic lifestyle. Usually, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any other belongings other than what they wear and are dependant on other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mercy. Sadhus are important for the Hindus since they represent those who have been strong enough to leave the materialistic world behind and lead a life free of worldly joys. Unfortunately, there is a large number of fake Sadhus who pretend in order to gain donations from tourists. From my experience, the Sadhus who are asking for large donations and get angry when you turn your back on them are the ones who are fake. When it comes to traveling to India, it is essential for you to trust your gut feeling and the country will then lead you to the things that are good for your soul. Website: auroville.org

Hinduism is the main religion in India, occupying 80% of the population, followed by Islam at 14%. MAY 2018 | Ct

MIND, BODY & SOUL

HOW TO KEEP YOURSELF ENERGIZED IN RAMADAN Vitamin B Something you can begin to do well before the holy month is incorporate vitamin B into your diet. Not only does this vitamin offer an energy boost, but it also helps concentration, memory and your mood. You can either consume it in the form of tablets, or you can naturally find it in meat, fish, dairy products, avocados and watermelons, among many others. Vitamin B is also known to be great for our hair, skin and nails that can often suffer from the dehydration that can come with Ramadan.

It is no secret that everyone fasting in Ramadan suffers from a severe drop in energy levels, and sometimes eating those festive sweets after Iftar does not give you that boost that will last the entire next day. !at is why we have put together a few tips and tricks that include things you should consume or do to keep that energy level as high as possible.

Aromatherapy Not many people are aware that certain scents aid in concentration and alertness, helping to wake up the mind. Try buying an essential oil diffuser and stick to using scents like peppermint and citrus to get the maximum effect. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find a diffuser, you can search for specific candles with these oils or smells and light it during the day. Natural soy or beeswax candles with these incorporated scents will be even better.

You may want to consult your doctor before consuming it as tablets.

Maintain a Workout Plan We all tend to get more lazy when the month rolls in, especially when there is no food or water in our system. However, never underestimate what a workout can do, even in the long run. If you have it in you, then schedule a 45-minute workout right before Iftar, so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend too long without any form of hydration. If this is difficult, then start your routine after you have eaten by at least an hour. You do not have to do your regular exercises and can minimize your cardio workout, but any form of sport will raise your energy and concentration levels.

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Dates and Honey !e benefits of consuming these are no secret, but they must be mentioned because of how much of a difference they can make. Both dates and honey contain a significant amount of natural sugars and fibers that can get you through the day. Consuming dates will provide you with a great source of vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, sodium, potassium and zinc, among many others. As for pure honey, you will find antioxidants, proteins, amino acids that make it the perfect energy-filled snack.

Whole Grains

Replace Candy with Nuts

Whole grain foods are complex carbohydrates that take longer for your body to break down, acting as a great energy booster as you stay energized longer. Whole grains are also highfiber foods, and include quinoa and wheat.

You want to avoid short-term energy boosters that are high in sugar, like candy bars. !ese artificial sweeteners do indeed have a great effect, but it is instant and short lived. Instead, opt for a handful of nuts that are high in protein, omega-3, vitamin B and E, fiber and magnesium. It is highly recommended to consume nuts raw, as you will be getting the maximum amount of benefits.

Coconut Water or Detox Water Also very popular, both coconut and detox water are the best for hydration and refreshment. You can make detox water at home by combining cucumbers, ginger, mint and lemon with water and let it sit for a few hours.

Dark Chocolate Eliminating all sweets would not exactly be practical during a month like Ramadan. However, dark chocolate is a great guilt-free substitute to keep going back to as it is full of antioxidants, natural sugars and natural fats that will give you a well-needed energy boost.

!ese beverages are a good source of nutrients and antioxidants, and are great for diabetes, heart health and blood pressure. We all know how important it is to stock up on anything hydrating between Iftar and Sohour, and so drinking enough water is essential, for skin and hair as well.

MAY 2018 | Ct

CUISINE

Energy Boosting Salads and Drinks Thai Veggie Salad IngredIents: Đ ĐREDĐBELLĐPEPPER ĐTHINLYĐSLICED Đ ĐBUNCHĐSCALLIONS ĐTHINLYĐSLICED Đ ĐCUPSĐSNOWĐPEAS ĐTHINLYĐSLICED Đ ĐCARROTS ĐTHINLYĐSLICEDĐORĐ SHREDDED Đ ĐBUNCHĐRADISHES ĐTHINLYĐSLICEDĐ ORĐSHREDDED Đ uĐREDĐCABBAGE ĐTHINLYĐSLICEDĐORĐ SHREDDED Đ vĐCUCUMBER ĐCUTĐINTOĐSTRIPS Đ ĐCUPĐDRIEDĐMANGO ĐTHINLYĐ SLICED Đ ²⁄³ĐCUPĐPEANUTS ĐCHOPPEDĐ PLUSĐ EXTRAĐFORĐGARNISH Đ wĐCUPĐFRESHĐCILANTRO ĐCHOPPEDĐ PLUSĐEXTRAĐFORĐGARNISH Đ uĐCUPĐFRESHĐMINT ĐCHOPPED Dressing Đ ĐGARLICĐCLOVES ĐMINCED Đ INCHĐPIECEĐFRESHĐGINGER Đ MINCED

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dIrectIons: Đ 4OSSĐALLĐTHEĐSALADĐINGREDIENTSĐ TOGETHERĐINĐAĐLARGEĐBOWL Đ )NĐAĐMEDIUMĐBOWL ĐWHISKĐ ALLĐTHEĐDRESSINGĐINGREDIENTSĐ TOGETHERĐUNTILĐTHEĐMIXTUREĐ ISĐSMOOTHĐINĐTEXTUREĐUSINGĐ AĐMINIĐFOODĐPROCESSORĐORĐANĐ IMMERSIONĐBLENDER ĐĐ Đ 0OURĐTHEĐDRESSINGĐOVERĐTHEĐ SALADĐANDĐTOSSĐTOĐCOAT Đ Đ 4OĐSERVE ĐPILEĐAĐHELPINGĐOFĐ SALADĐONTOĐAĐPLATEĐANDĐTOPĐ GENEROUSLYĐWITHĐMOREĐCILANTROĐ ANDĐPEANUTS Đ Đ °EĐSALADĐGETSĐBETTERĐASĐITĐSITSĐ ANDĐWILLĐKEEPĐFORĐUPĐTOĐTHREEĐ DAYSĐINĐANĐAIRTIGHTĐCONTAINERĐINĐ THEĐREFRIGERATOR

Shrimp, Avocado and Broccoli Salad IngredIents: Đ ĐHEADĐBROCCOLI ĐCUTĐINTOĐ®ORETS Đ ĐGRAMSĐCANNEDĐKIDNEYĐBEANSĐ Đ ĐLETTUCE ĐCUTĐINTOĐWEDGES Đ ĐAVOCADOS ĐCUTĐINTOĐWEDGES Đ ĐCOOKEDĐPRAWNS Đ ĐHARDĐBOILEDĐEGGS ĐCUTĐINTOĐWEDGES Đ uĐCUPĐMAYONNAISEĐ Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐWATER Đ vĐTEASPOONĐSESAMEĐOIL Đ ĐTABLESPOONĐTOASTEDĐSESAMEĐSEEDS Đ vĐTEASPOONĐCHILIĐOILĐ OPTIONAL Đ 3EAĐSALTĐ OPTIONAL dIrectIons: Đ "RINGĐAĐPOTĐOFĐWATERĐTOĐBOILĐANDĐDROPĐINĐTHEĐ BROCCOLI Đ Đ "OILĐFORĐ ĐMINUTESĐTHENĐDRAINĐANDĐALLOWĐTOĐCOOLĐ UNDERĐCOLDĐRUNNINGĐWATER Đ Đ ,AYERĐLETTUCE ĐBROCCOLI ĐBEANS ĐAVOCADOS Đ PRAWNSĐANDĐEGGSĐONTOĐ ĐSERVINGĐPLATES Đ Đ 7HISKĐMAYONNAISE ĐWATERĐANDĐSESAMEĐOILĐ TOGETHERĐ PLUSĐTHEĐCHILIĐOILĐANDĐSEAĐSALTĐIFĐUSING Đ ANDĐDRIZZLEĐOVERĐSALADĐPLATES

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Honey Walnut Salad IngredIents: Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐBUTTER Đ vĐLARGEĐYELLOWĐONION Đ THINLYĐSLICED Đ ĐCUPSĐSEEDLESSĐREDĐ GRAPES ĐWASHEDĐANDĐCUTĐ INĐHALF Đ ĐCUPSĐCANNEDĐCORN Đ ĐCUPĐUNCOOKEDĐBULGURĐORĐ OTHERĐGRAIN Đ wĐCUPĐWALNUTS Đ uĐCUPĐHONEY Đ uĐCUPĐWATER Đ &RESHĐBABYĐSPINACH Đ #RUMBLEDĐBLUEĐCHEESEĐ OPTIONAL Đ 3ALTĐTOĐTASTEĐ dIrectIons: Đ -ELTĐTHEĐBUTTERĐINĐAĐ MEDIUMĐSAUCEPANĐOVERĐ LOWĐHEAT ĐĐ!DDĐONIONSĐ ANDĐSAUTýĐONĐLOWĐFORĐ ABOUTĐ ĐMINUTES ĐSTIRRINGĐ

Quinoa with Pine Nuts and Raisins Salad IngredIents: Đ ĐCUPĐQUINOA ĐRINSEDĐWELL Đ uĐCUPĐPINEĐNUTS Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐOLIVEĐOIL Đ ĐCLOVESĐGARLIC ĐTHINLYĐSLICED Đ vĐCUPĐCHOPPEDĐFRESHĐPARSLEY Đ uĐCUPĐRAISINS Đ ĐTABLESPOONĐFRESHĐLEMONĐJUICE Đ 3ALTĐANDĐFRESHLYĐGROUNDĐPEPPER dIrectIons: Đ 0LACEĐTHEĐQUINOAĐINĐAĐSAUCEPANĐ ANDĐCOOKĐOVERĐMEDIUMĐHEATĐ UNTILĐTOASTED ĐABOUTĐ ĐMINUTES Đ Đ !DDĐ wĐCUPSĐOFĐWATERĐ ORĐLOW SODIUMĐCHICKENĐBROTH ĐANDĐ BRINGĐTOĐAĐBOIL Đ Đ 2EDUCEĐTHEĐHEATĐTOĐMEDIUM

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OCCASIONALLY ĐUNTILĐONIONSĐ AREĐSOFT ĐGOLDENĐBROWN Đ ANDĐALMOSTĐSWEETĐTASTING 7HILEĐONIONSĐAREĐSTILLĐ COOKING ĐPOURĐBULGURĐANDĐ ĐCUPSĐOFĐWATERĐINTOĐAĐ SAUCEPAN ĐBRINGĐTOĐAĐBOILĐ ANDĐCOOKĐFORĐ ĐMINUTES Đ UNTILĐMOSTĐOFĐTHEĐMOISTUREĐ HASĐABSORBEDĐANDĐTHEĐ GRAINSĐAREĐSOFTĐENOUGHĐ TOĐEAT ĐĐ,ETĐCOOLĐFORĐ Đ MINUTES 7HENĐONIONSĐAREĐDONE Đ STIRĐINTOĐTHEĐBULGURĐSOĐTHEĐ GRAINSĐABSORBĐTHEĐBUTTER Đ 3EASONĐWITHĐSALT #OMBINEĐGRAPESĐANDĐCORNĐ INĐAĐLARGEĐMIXINGĐBOWL ĐĐ !DDĐCOOLEDĐBULGURĐANDĐ WALNUTS Đ 7HISKĐWATERĐANDĐHONEY Đ POURĐOVERĐMIXTUREĐANDĐ STIRĐWELL Đ !DDĐFRESHĐBABYĐSPINACHĐ ANDĐCRUMBLEDĐBLUEĐCHEESEĐ JUSTĐBEFOREĐSERVING

LOWĐANDĐSIMMER ĐCOVERED ĐUNTILĐ THEĐLIQUIDĐISĐABSORBED Đ ĐTOĐ Đ MINUTES Đ 2EMOVEĐFROMĐTHEĐHEATĐANDĐLETĐ SIT ĐCOVERED ĐABOUTĐ ĐMINUTES -EANWHILE ĐTOASTĐTHEĐPINEĐNUTSĐ INĐAĐSKILLETĐOVERĐMEDIUM HIGHĐ HEAT ĐSTIRRING ĐUNTILĐGOLDEN Đ ABOUTĐ ĐMINUTES ĐTRANSFERĐTOĐAĐ PLATE Đ !DDĐTHEĐOLIVEĐOILĐANDĐGARLICĐ TOĐTHEĐSKILLETĐANDĐCOOKĐOVERĐ MEDIUMĐHEAT ĐSTIRRING ĐUNTILĐ GOLDEN ĐABOUTĐ ĐMINUTES Đ 4RANSFERĐTHEĐGARLICĐTOĐTHEĐPLATE Đ RESERVINGĐTHEĐOIL &LUFFĐTHEĐQUINOAĐWITHĐAĐFORK ĐĐ !DDĐTHEĐPINEĐNUTS ĐGARLIC Đ RESERVEDĐOIL ĐPARSLEY ĐRAISINSĐ ANDĐLEMONĐJUICE Đ 3EASONĐWITHĐSALTĐANDĐPEPPERĐ ANDĐTOSS

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CUISINE

Chicken Salad with Carrots and Pistachios IngredIents: Đ ĐCUPSĐCARROTS ĐPEELEDĐANDĐCUTĐINTOĐSLICESĐ Đ ĐTABLESPOONĐBROWNĐSUGAR Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐOLIVEĐOIL Đ vĐTEASPOONĐSALT Đ vĐTEASPOONĐFRESHLYĐGROUNDĐBLACKĐPEPPER Đ ĐBONELESS ĐSKINLESSĐCHICKEN BREASTĐ HALVES ĐCUTĐCROSSWISEĐINĐTHINĐSLICES Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐFRESHĐCHIVESĐORĐSLICEDĐ SCALLIONĐGREENS Đ ĐTABLESPOONĐANDĐ ĐTEASPOONĐVINEGAR Đ ĐSHALLOT ĐTHINLYĐSLICED Đ ĐCUPSĐBABYĐARUGULA Đ ĐBUNCHĐWATERCRESS ĐTOUGHĐSTEMSĐ REMOVED Đ vĐCUPSĐHALVEDĐREDĐSEEDLESSĐGRAPES Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐUNSALTEDĐSHELLEDĐCHOPPEDĐ PISTACHIOS dIrectIons: Đ 0REHEATĐTHEĐOVENĐTOĐ # Đ Đ #OATĐANĐ ĐXĐ ĐBAKINGĐPANĐANDĐAĐRIMMEDĐ BAKINGĐSHEETĐWITHĐCOOKINGĐSPRAY Đ 0LACEĐTHEĐCARROTSĐINĐTHEĐPREPAREDĐBAKINGĐ PAN Đ

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3PRINKLEĐWITHĐTHEĐSUGAR Đ ĐTEASPOONĐOFĐTHEĐ OLIVEĐOIL ĐANDĐAĐPINCHĐEACHĐOFĐTHEĐSALTĐANDĐ PEPPER ĐĐ4OSSĐTOĐCOATĐWELL Đ 2OAST ĐSTIRRINGĐSEVERALĐTIMES ĐFORĐ Đ MINUTES ĐUNTILĐTHEĐCARROTSĐAREĐTENDERĐANDĐ LIGHTLYĐGOLDENĐATĐTHEĐEDGES !BOUTĐ ĐMINUTESĐBEFOREĐTHEĐCARROTSĐAREĐ DONE ĐPLACEĐTHEĐCHICKENĐINĐAĐMOUNDĐONĐ THEĐPREPAREDĐBAKINGĐSHEET Đ $RIZZLEĐWITHĐ ĐTEASPOONĐOFĐTHEĐOIL ĐANDĐ SPRINKLEĐWITHĐ ĐTABLESPOONSĐOFĐTHEĐCHIVES Đ ANDĐAĐPINCHĐEACHĐOFĐTHEĐSALTĐANDĐPEPPER ĐĐ 4OSSĐTOĐMIX Đ !RRANGEĐINĐAĐSINGLEĐLAYER ĐĐ2OAST ĐTURNINGĐ ONCE ĐFORĐ ĐTOĐ ĐMINUTES ĐUNTILĐCOOKEDĐ THROUGH Đ 2EMOVEĐCARROTSĐANDĐCHICKENĐFROMĐTHEĐ OVENĐANDĐLETĐCOOLĐFORĐAĐFEWĐMINUTES -EANWHILE ĐINĐAĐSALADĐBOWL ĐMIXĐTHEĐ VINEGAR ĐSHALLOT ĐANDĐTHEĐREMAININGĐOIL Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐCHIVES ĐANDĐuĐTEASPOONĐ EACHĐOFĐSALTĐANDĐPEPPER ĐĐ !DDĐTHEĐARUGULA ĐWATERCRESSĐANDĐGRAPESĐ TOĐTHEĐDRESSINGĐANDĐTOSSĐTOĐMIXĐWELL ĐĐ 3PREADĐOUTĐONĐAĐPLATTER Đ 4OPĐWITHĐTHEĐCARROTS ĐTHEĐCHICKENĐANDĐANYĐ JUICES ĐANDĐSPRINKLEĐWITHĐTHEĐPISTACHIOS Đ 3ERVEĐWARM

Power Salad with Roasted Chickpeas IngredIents: Đ 'REENĐDRESSINGĐ INGREDIENTSĐBELOW Đ Đ ĐLARGEĐCARROTSĐ Đ ĐMEDIUMĐZUCCHINI Đ uĐCUPĐFRESHĐBASIL ĐCUTĐINTOĐRIBBONS Đ ĐCANĐCHICKPEAS ĐRINSEDĐANDĐDRAINED Đ ĐTABLESPOONĐOLIVEĐOIL Đ ĐTEASPOONĐCHILIĐPOWDER Đ vĐTEASPOONĐCUMIN Đ !ĐGENEROUSĐSPRINKLINGĐOFĐSALTĐANDĐPEPPER Green Dressing Đ ĐAVOCADO Đ ĐCUPĐPARSLEYĐANDĐCILANTROĐLEAVESĐ COMBINED Đ ĐJALAPEĄO ĐRIBSĐANDĐSEEDSĐREMOVED Đ ĐCLOVESĐGARLIC Đ *UICEĐOFĐONEĐLIMEĐ Đ vĐCUPĐWATER Đ vĐCUPĐOLIVEĐOIL Đ ĐTEASPOONĐSALT Đ vĐCUPĐPISTACHIOSĐ

dIrectIons: Đ 0REHEATĐTHEĐOVENĐTOĐ # Đ Đ 0ATĐTHEĐCHICKPEASĐDRYĐWITHĐPAPERĐTOWELSĐANDĐ TOSSĐWITHĐTHEĐOLIVEĐOIL ĐCHILIĐPOWDER ĐCUMIN Đ ANDĐSALTĐANDĐPEPPER Đ Đ !RRANGEĐINĐAĐSINGLEĐLAYERĐONĐAĐBAKINGĐSHEETĐANDĐ BAKEĐFORĐ ĐTOĐ ĐMINUTES ĐSTIRRINGĐORĐSHAKINGĐ THEĐPANĐEVERYĐONCEĐINĐAĐWHILEĐTOĐPREVENTĐOVERĐ BROWNING Đ Đ 3HREDĐTHEĐVEGETABLESĐINTOĐVERYĐTHINĐRIBBONSĐORĐ SLICESĐUSINGĐAĐGRATERĐORĐPEELER Đ !FTERĐSHREDDING ĐPRESSĐTHEĐZUCCHINIĐLIGHTLYĐWITHĐ PAPERĐTOWELSĐTOĐREMOVEĐEXCESSĐMOISTURE ĐĐ4OSSĐ THEĐVEGETABLESĐWITHĐTHEĐBASILĐANDĐSETĐASIDE Đ 4OSSĐTHEĐVEGETABLESĐWITHĐAĐSCOOPĐOFĐTHEĐGREENĐ DRESSINGĐ ĐSTARTĐOUTĐWITHĐABOUTĐvĐCUPĐANDĐADDĐ MOREĐIFĐNEEDED Đ Đ !DDĐTHEĐROASTEDĐCHICKPEASĐANDĐTOSSĐGENTLYĐTOĐ COMBINE Đ Đ !RRANGEĐTHEĐSALADĐINTOĐBOWLSĐANDĐSERVEĐ IMMEDIATELY Green dressing: Đ 0ULSEĐALLĐINGREDIENTSĐ ĐEXCEPTĐPISTACHIOSĐ ĐINĐAĐ FOODĐPROCESSORĐUNTILĐINCORPORATED Đ !DDĐPISTACHIOSĐANDĐPULSEĐUNTILĐMOSTLYĐSMOOTHĐ DEPENDSĐONĐWHATĐCONSISTENCYĐYOUĐWANT

MAY 2018 | Ct

CUISINE Banana, Date and Peanut Butter Smoothie IngredIents: Đ ĐCUPĐUNSWEETENEDĐPLAINĐALMONDĐMILKĐ ORĐANYĐ TYPEĐOFĐMILKĐYOUĐLIKE Đ ĐRIPEĐBANANA Đ ĐTOĐ ĐPITTEDĐDATES Đ ĐFROZENĐBANANA Đ ĐTABLESPOONSĐNATURALĐCREAMYĐPEANUTĐBUTTER Đ uĐCUPĐICE dIrectIons: Đ 0LACEĐALLĐINGREDIENTSĐINTOĐAĐPOWERĐBLENDERĐANDĐ BLENDĐUNTILĐSMOOTH Đ Đ )FĐYOUĐLIKEĐITĐTHINNER ĐADDĐMOREĐALMONDĐMILK

Peach-Vanilla Yogurt Smoothie IngredIents: Đ ĐCUPĐPLAINĐSOYĐMILKĐ ORĐANYĐ TYPEĐOFĐMILKĐYOUĐLIKE Đ Đ ĐFRESHĐPEACHES ĐSKINĐLEFTĐONĐ Đ vĐCUPĐNONFATĐVANILLAĐYOGURT dIrectIons: Đ Đ"LENDĐINGREDIENTSĐTOGETHERĐ ANDĐSERVE

Ct | MAY 2018

Mango-Strawberry Smoothie

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ĐTABLESPOONĐPLAINĐNONFATĐ YOGURT uĐCUPĐGREENĐTEAĐ UNSWEETENED

IngredIents: Đ ĐCUPĐFRESHĐSTRAWBERRIES dIrectIons: Đ vĐCUPĐFROZENĐMANGOĐCHUNKS Đ #OMBINEĐALLĐINGREDIENTSĐINĐ Đ uĐCUPĐREDĐGRAPES AĐBLENDERĐUNTILĐSMOOTHĐANDĐ Đ uĐCUPĐFROZENĐSLICEDĐPEACHES WELLĐCOMBINED Đ

Dark Chocolate Smoothie IngredIents: Đ ĐPITTEDĐDATES Đ ĐCUPĐUNSWEETENEDĐCHOCOLATEĐALMONDĐMILKĐ Đ ĐCUPĐICE Đ ĐTABLESPOONĐUNSWEETENEDĐCOCOAĐPOWDER Đ ĐCONTAINERĐVANILLAĐYOGURT Đ vĐBANANA ĐSLICEDĐANDĐFROZEN Đ $ASHĐOFĐINSTANTĐCOFFEEĐORĐESPRESSOĐGRANULESĐ OPTIONAL dIrectIons: Đ 0LACEĐDATESĐINĐAĐSMALLĐBOWLĐANDĐCOVERĐWITHĐHOTĐ WATERĐFORĐ ĐMINUTESĐORĐUNTILĐSOFTENED ĐANDĐTHENĐ DRAIN Đ "LENDĐMILKĐANDĐDATESĐFORĐ ĐSECONDSĐORĐUNTILĐ PUREED ĐĐ Đ !DDĐICEĐANDĐREMAININGĐINGREDIENTS ĐANDĐTHENĐ BLENDĐFORĐ ĐSECONDSĐORĐUNTILĐSMOOTH

Ultimate Green Smoothie IngredIents: Đ ĐCUPSĐFRESHĐSPINACH Đ ĐCUPĐWATER Đ ĐGRAPEFRUIT Đ ĐCUPSĐPINEAPPLE dIrectIons: Đ "LENDĐSPINACH ĐWATERĐANDĐGRAPEFRUITĐTOGETHERĐUNTILĐ SMOOTH Đ !DDĐREMAININGĐINGREDIENTSĐANDĐBLENDĐAGAIN

Sweet Banana Smoothie IngredIents: Đ ĐBANANA Đ vĐCUPĐFAT FREEĐVANILLAĐYOGURT Đ ĐICEĐCUBES Đ ĐTEASPOONSĐVANILLAĐEXTRACT dIrectIons: Đ "LENDĐINGREDIENTSĐTOGETHERĐUNTILĐSMOOTH ĐANDĐ THENĐSERVE Đ

MAY 2018 | Ct

CUISINE

LESAFFRE OPENS A NEW BAKING CENTER IN EGYPT On May 3, in the presence of HE. M. Stéphane Romatet, !e French Ambassador to Egypt; Eng Ahmed Ibrahim Mohamed, Head of Sheikh Zaeid Municipality; Mr. Antoine Baule, CEO of Lesaffre; and Walid Nasef, General Manager of Lesaffre Egypt, a new Baking Center was opened in Cairo. As a global key player in yeasts and fermentation, Lesaffre designs, manufactures and markets innovative solutions for baking, food taste, health care and biotechnology. Each Lesaffre Baking Center is a center of expertise in bread making, dedicated to training, technical support, product and process development and commercial presentations of the products. !e Egyptian center, managed by a French bakery expert, is part of a network established in France in 1974, and is now made up of 39 Baking Centers, with over 200 baking technicians on all continents. Lesaffre established its subsidiary Lesaffre Egypt in June 2015, through the acquisition of Egybelg, a yeast plant based in Nubaria. During the past two years, Lesaffre has made a series of major structural investments to modernize the plant and improve the production cycle. !e investment plans of its Egyptian subsidiary also included the building of a new Baking Center in Cairo, as an extension project. “Designed on two floors, the total area of the building is about 650m2. All the investments were made in collaboration with the best local and external suppliers, to take advantage of local excellence,” explains Walid Nasef, General Manager of Lesaffre Egypt. !is center is part of a global network of Lesaffre and will closely coordinate its activities with the regional baking center and the corporate center in France.

Ct | MAY 2018

SOCIETY Mr. Magdy Naguib’s Farewell In honour of Mr. Magdy Naguib’s years of exceptional service, Mr. Mounir Ghabbour, Chairman of Mirage Hotel Corporation & Golf Hotels, Mrs. Mounir Ghabbour, and Mr. Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director Marriott International, ME & A, hosted a farewell reception party. The event was held in the Tutankhamun Ballroom at JW Marriott Cairo and was attended by 500 invitees who all wished Mr. Magdy happiness and success in the new chapter of his life – a well earned retirement. The night was filled with emotion as everyone wished the hospitality legend farewell. Speeches were made by Mr. Alex Kyriakidis; Mr. Mark Satterfield, Chief Operating Officer of Marriott International Africa Region; Mr. Magdy Naguib and Mr. Mounir Ghabbour. The heartfelt speeches were followed by a gala dinner that was prepared by the hotel’s extraordinary culinary team.

Ct | MAY 2018

Mercedes-Benz Egypt Hosts its Second Networking Circle of “She’s Mercedes” Mercedes-Benz Egypt hosted the second networking circle of “She’s Mercedes”, a place where women can connect and exchange ideas, share experiences and learn from one another, and a hub for sparking conversation, offering new perspectives and supporting ambitions. Taking place at Zamalek’s “Pier 88” overlooking the spectacular Nile River, the night hosted inspiring speaker Dr. Doreya Karim, Director of Bio Geometry Energy Systems LTD, as well as media attendees and influential ladies who were all welcomed by Marie Zarif, Senior Manager Marketing & PR at Mercedes-Benz Egypt. Throughout the gathering, Dr. Doreya shared her experiences through life, how she followed in her father’s steps - Founder of the Science of BioGeometry, Dr. Ibrahim Karim - illustrating different aspects of BioGeometry, Nature’s Own Design Language, while showing how to project harmony into your environment and aim to better people’s lives.

MAY 2018 | Ct

SOCIETY Sheraton Cairo Hotel Creates a Mystical Oncein-a-Lifetime Experience Inside the Pyramids for Five Lucky Loyalty Members In what can truly be termed as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any ardent meditator, holistic practitioner or travel explorer, members of Marriott International award winning Loyalty Program, SPG bided last week on the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experiential platform SPG Moments for a chance to experience magic inside the Great Pyramids of Giza with a midnight visit and a private meditation session. The experience began with an exclusive Pharaonic-themed dinner at Sheraton Cairo Hotel and Casinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Lounge before heading to the Pyramids of Giza Plateau after dark to explore a unique Pharaonic meditation session inside the main chamber of the Great Pyramids of Cheops at sunrise.

Members also got to live the magic and the mystery of a bygone era dressed in speciallyprepared white linen outfits and accessories inspired by the Pharaonic era. This exclusive aweinspiring moment was available for only five lucky loyalty members. To find out more or get a chance to win a similar experience, log on to SPG Moments and make your bid.

Ct | MAY 2018

Fayruz Lebanese Menu ReLaunch at InterContinental Cairo Citystars Fayruz launched its newest menu in a prestigious event gathering clients, food lovers, media and bloggers around the tastiest Lebanese food. During the opening, invitees experienced the charming Lebanese cuisine, flavored Shisha, great food, wine and live entertainment by the fabulous belly dancer Anastasia. The idea behind the concept is to provide guests with the feel of being at home and eating authentic Lebanese food while enjoying the company of their friends. MAY 2018 | Ct

SOCIETY Mohamed El Sharnouby and Tania Saleh Perform Classic Arabic Hits at The Marquee Theatre On the 4th of May, The Marquee Theatre in Cairo Festival City welcomed renowned singers Mohamed El Sharnouby and Tania Saleh, where the conductor, music producer and Composer Hany Farahat was the leading Maestro for this enchanting concert.

Ct | MAY 2018