Dubai Vibes Magazine| Issue 6 | August 2021

VOL 1 • ISSUE 6 • AUGUST 2021

Expat stories.

What’s yours? ‘it’s glory when you win, but what if you lose?’

Danny Hendrikus Boxer-turnedbusinessman

‘Sweet dreams are made of silk’

Hard court maneuvers

Alexander Suski goes from insurance sales to Dubai hospitality top guy

Natasha Inman advocates mental health through her line of fashion pajamas

‘Heroes need not have supernatural powers’

Chris Daymon says there are also those doing Covid vaccs

‘Life is like ice cream, Enjoy it before it melts’

Vasco Valenca de Sousa creates flavored vegan emotions

Ramayana Bringel Bringing Brazilian vegan joy to Dubai

Sara Soares Way ahead of her time

‘I try and be with people who do not take themselves seriously’

Sushmita Bose shares how she found her ‘voice’ in writing

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From the publisher This edition is a good wrap.

With Dubai being an international city in mind, we reached out to expats and checked their interesting stories to share. What’s an expat city without expat stories to share, anyway?

And so, we have Sara Soares from Brazil who walked us through her latest venture, something that adds flavor instead to Dubai’s eclectic dining scene: Holly Organico, a vegan paradise.

Danny Hendrikus, boxerturned-businessman, is not going to throw in the towel.

Find out why from this guy who was born and raised in the Netherlands.

Alexander Suski, who is from Belgium, shares his journey from being a pro basketball player to insurance sales and now, Dubai hospitality top guy.

We also feature Chef Krushnath Ramesh Jadhav, Chef de Cuisine at a five-star UAE hotel, a small town Indian boy who made it to the big league because he’s got “fire in his belly.”

Lisbon-born Vasco Joao Magalhaes Valenca de Sousa would rather “break on through to the other side,” as the late Jim Morrison would say, than stay banal. And so he created Dubai’s latest craze: vegan ice cream.

Ramayana Bringel brings Brazilian vegan joy to Dubai and Natasha Inman, accountant from the UK, advocates mental health through her line of luxury pajamas.

This and more in this latest Dubai Vibes Magazine.

Indulge. Enjoy. Enthuse.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

STAFF BOX Publisher Gabriel John Rimando

Editor Jojo Dass

Sales and Marketing Manager Elaine Anne ‘Bella’ Marbella

Contributing Writers Joshua Trias Amanda Hensley Zainab Shahid

Graphic Designer Allan Caragao

Photographer

‘Dig deep and show who is boss’ – Danny Hendrikus A boxer-turned-businessman, this guy is not going to throw in the towel - page 10

Than Dumas Find us at https://www.dubaivibesmagazine.ae/ https://www.facebook.com/DubaiVibesMagazine.ae

dubaivibesmag dubaivibesmagazine DubaiVibesMagazine.ae Dubai Vibes Magazine

Sweet dreams are made of silk Natasha Inman advocates mental health through her line of fashion pajamas - page 28

ON THE COVER

‘Heroes need not have supernatural powers’ Chris Daymon says they can also be those doing swab tests or Covid vaccs. - page 33

Indeed! At 24, Sara Soares is way ahead of her time and there’s just no stopping her.

A seasoned market analyst, who also is brand advisor to international companies, while at same time having investments in Dubai’s real property and sitting on the board of an ethical mining company, Sara, it seems, never gets her hands full.

She recently came up with a latest venture that’s close to her heart, something that strays a bit away from the daily grind and adding flavor instead to Dubai’s eclectic dining scene: Holly Organico, a vegan paradise.

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FEATURES

Ramayana Bringel

Bringing Brazilian vegan joy to Dubai

‘My main motivation for creating vegan dishes is based on my core philosophy to stop animal suffering and use the Earth’s goodness to prepare high quality and flavored dishes.’

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‘It’s all about a passion for healing’

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long with her Mother Claudia Bringel, Ramayana set up the first vegan and organic bakery in Brazil, supplying products to different sized businesses across the country.

Having been vegan for seven years now, Ramayana always observed good eating habits and had a vegetarian upbringing since she was born. Her main motivation for creating vegan dishes is based on her core philosophy to stop animal suffering and use the Earth’s goodness to prepare high quality and flavored dishes. The main recipes were created in her home kitchen for family and friends who were always surprised and delighted by her special skills.

What started out as door-to-door sales in a small town, quickly progressed to become a successful homegrown business and her fame grew through local organic fairs to supplying and launching restaurants!

Ramayana’s passion for healing with food led her

The latest craze in town is Holly Organico, a vegan restaurant along the Al Wasl strip – Wasl Square to be more precise.

And in the kitchen is Chef Ramayana Bringel, 28-yearold Brazilian, born in Rio de Janiero and raised in a quaint town south of Minas Gerais.

She has been an entrepreneur since 2010 and has successfully established at least five vegan restaurants.

to study vegan nutrition and she attended three technical courses all over Brazil. She has taken many courses including courses in local cuisine development in Europe and Asia.

As a nature lover, she continues to travel the world and explore their unique cuisine to bring culinary flavor to her vegan dishes. She thrives on creating new dishes and offering a variety of choices for healthy and pure eating, finding ways to use only organic ingredients to prepare her food – at Holly Organico.

to better health, wellness and harmony between mind and body.

The restaurant has many options: traditional Brazilian cheese bread, tapioca, scrambled tofu, omelette, focaccias, classic stuffed croissants, waffles, and tartlets for Breakfast.

For lunch, there is a new daily dish of the day prepared and served. Popular orders are Feijoada, Stroganoff, Paella, to mention a few.

Holly Organico Kitchen’s commitment to your health and well-being is evident in the vegan restaurant’s organic, fresh, and natural meals which are custom-made using the highest quality ingredients to fulfil your body’s health requirements, without compromising on great taste.

For the afternoon tea, you will find many wonderful options of fresh cakes and pies straight out of the oven that will surprise and delight you! Be sure to try our infamous milkshakes and the Brigadeiros!

The appetizers are also great to accompany your coffeetime or tea break. For savoury we also offer the traditional Brazilian coxinha, cheese balls, kibbeh, falafel and esfihas.

Holly Organico is more than a place to eat deliciously organic food; it is a rewarding experience that invites you to join us on a journey

For dinner, there are options for special dishes of the house like Lasagna, risottos and the incredible traditional Brazilian Moqueca.

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STORIES

Emilie Goldstein Mikulla: Changing people’s perception of pain through yoga

‘I have found that combining movement, manual therapy and education is a powerful way to do it.’

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arseille-born Emilie Goldstein Mikulla arrived in Dubai 13 years ago, having been travelling for many years as part of her job and, in the process, having as well moved 28 times in her life, living and working all over the globe, including South Africa, Thailand, Malaysia and the US. “Because of my upbringing, I’ve always been interested in the world and different cultures. I worked for many years as a travel journalist and absolutely loved discovering places off the beaten track and encountering people I would have otherwise never met,” Emilie tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

“In parallel, I spent a lot of time studying human anatomy and decided to change careers and dive into the human body! But I still do have a bad case of wanderlust,” she added.

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And as it has been the rage these days, coupled with veganism as more and more people come to terms with themselves to live healthily Emilie got herself into yoga.

“I have found that combining movement, manual therapy and education is a powerful way to get people to change their perception of pain (if they are in pain), and also to keep injuries at bay; generally, to feel better in their bodies and minds,” Emilie says.

Dubai is the city that Emilie has lived the longest in. “To me it’s special because it’s where I met my husband and where my two boys were born,” she says.

Her husband, Marc Mikulla, is CEO at a broadcast and digital Studio portal; and the two boys are Max, who is 10 years old, and Leo, five.

“When I first moved here in 2008,” recalls Emilie,

“I was so grateful that it was such an easy place to make friends.

“Everyone is a stranger here and so it’s easy to find like-minded people and form strong bonds. But because it’s an expat city, it’s tough to see people leave all the time.”

Dubai, being a world-class city, is not cheap.

“That’s true,” says Emilie. “But I found that you get a lot for your money – large homes, great food, lots of activities. And it’s still very well possible to live well without burning a hole through your wallet - you just have to be in the know,” she added.

Her mantra? “Give more than you take,” she says.

‘I try and be with people who do not take themselves seriously.’

By Jojo Dass

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A journalist, Sushmita Bose has bragging rights to a bestselling book she did when she was in Delhi. She shares how she found her “voice” in writing.

riting is an art. And Dubai, with its galaxy of creative minds, has limitless shining stars, among them, Sushmita Bose.

Sushmita says the “ability to give expressions to thoughts, and flesh them out from a unique perspective while lending my own insights — all the while creating content that’s reader-friendly,” is what she loves about her work.

“Writing is a creative challenge, and you never really stop learning,” she tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

Sushmita used to do a very popular Sunday column called “Single In The City” when she was in Delhi. The column was later compiled into a bestselling book.

“The brief (of the book) was: Navigating life alone as a woman in one of the ‘unsafest’ cities in the world,” narrates Sushmita.

So how did it all began?

“I took up English Honours in college because I’d thought it would be the easiest subject to study. As it turned out, that wasn’t quite the case. But, I took comfort from the fact that Literature is always subjective, so there was no structured format to process it,” says Sushmita.

“I could interpret it in whatever way I wanted as long as I back my interpretations with valid observations and some sort of writing flair. I think that’s how I found my own ‘voice!’

“I enjoyed writing — and I think I was good at it if I go by what my teachers told me since I was a kid because it gave me a chance to faff. I once remember a teacher telling me that one of (my) Geography test papers had no substance (because, as usual, I hadn’t studied) but a lot of style,” she further said.

Sushmita took a test for trainee journalists at a news magazine after she got through college.

“I was absolutely sure I’d flunk big time. Weirdly enough, I got the job. After that I was too lazy to hone any other skills,” she said.

Having been in Dubai since 2008, Sushmita said it took some time for her to get used to the city, “mostly because I was missing Delhi hugely.”

“But then I grew to love it. I’ve made some great friends here, and in many ways, I’ve unearthed unknown facets about myself because it’s a city that left me alone to contemplate whenever I wanted to,” Sushmita says.

Sushmita says friends, coffee, Netflix and a sense of humor keeps her going.

“I try and be with people who do not take themselves seriously,” she says.

Her life philosophy?

“Live and let live. Never take more than you can give. Be kind. Don’t judge.” w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |

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MOVERS

‘Dig deep and show who is boss’ – Danny Hendrikus A boxer-turned-businessman, this guy is not going to throw in the towel

‘I am a fighter. Literally I am. I have done 18 professional fights in the ring. For me, this is also a lifestyle. When you are inside the ring it’s up to you. Did you do your homework? Are you prepared? It’s glory when you win, but what if you lose?’

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‘No nonsense’ fight

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ubai is where people from all over the world gravitate to, working “smart and focused.”

“I have been visiting this city since 2009. I have seen it growing more and more.

There is no place in the world like this. The no nonsense mentality to create whatever the dream is. It motivates me,” 42-year-old Danny Hendrikus, born and raised in the Netherlands, tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

Dubai, he says, “belongs to the few places in the world where it all happens.”

“If you make it here, you can make it everywhere.

The people here are all smart and focused. They come here for a reason. Everyone here came with a purpose. And that is what you feel when doing business here.

“The money question is normal to ask. How much will it cost? Here, I learned this is very useful.

Instead of talking too much about the bees and birds, it’s about, ‘Can we work… yes or no?’ I like that direct approach,” Danny, who’s been staying in the city full time in the past five years, added.

And it pretty much fits into the equation.

Danny, who has ventured into running his own business, a networking application called “Socios Member Club” connecting individuals willing to invest time and money and get rewarded, already got it tailor-made for him the moment he learned to understand numbers when he was a kid.

“From the day I could calculate, I always knew I was going to do my own business one day,” said Danny, who graduated at the Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia when he was 21.

Danny learned to speak many languages as he was growing up in the Netherlands, which made it easy for him to blend in Dubai’s international set-up. “I know the European way of business and here (in Dubai) with Russians, Asian, Arabs, Americans and so on, you just keep absorbing this positive

energy,” he says.

Danny wastes no time going for it whenever he sees an opportunity, he says, but indicating, at the same time, that the ride has not been less bumpy at all. At the moment, his heart beats with Socios.

“Taking the risks yes: winning and losing. But every year making sure you grow. Financially and or personally. I also know how it is to lose.

Business that you worked on for years with heart and soul and then all changes. But, I think that’s all part of the journey. Right now is my time with Socios. I know it is going to succeed. I believe in it and it’s my job to serve the public with it,” he says.

Danny had been a boxer in the ring, too – something that has taught him vital lessons he now hangs on to as a businessman long after the bell has stopped ringing the final round.

‘The money question is normal to ask. How much will it cost? Here, I learned this is very useful. Instead of talking too much about the bees and birds, it’s about, ‘Can we work… yes or no?’

I like that direct approach.’

“I am a fighter. Literally I am. I have done 18 professional fights in the ring. For me this is also a lifestyle. When you are inside the ring, it’s up to you. Did you do your homework? Are you prepared? It’s glory when you win, but what if you lose?” says Danny.

He shared how he once went through a Thai boxing match in Australia with an opponent.

“After he fell,” Danny says, “I went to the corner and got my last minute of rest before we fought the last round. I was super tired. My ears were stuffed, body bruised and it was mentally tough.

“My coach passed me the water and told me the words that I will never forget. He said: ‘Dig Deep and show who is boss.’ I got the energy back and fought the last round. That quote, I like to carry.

Hard times are fine, they are all part of the journey.

Just continue and don’t give up.”

And so, Danny, the boxer, is just not about to throw in the towel; he won’t.

“The last two years, I was working behind the scenes. I am not a technical IT guy. I have people for that. As since recently the app’s first release was ready, now I can promote it and talk about it, making deals to benefit the members. I hope I can make a lot of people happy. That’s the real bonus,” he says.

Socios, which means partners in Spanish, aims to link investors, influencers, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to become millionaires, live a luxurious life, and make money while enjoying the company of like-minded people.

“We are all addicted to our phones. We scroll through our phone at every single moment we have. I thought that what if I could bring an app to the phone that actually makes us money? An app we consider as working. This, every single moment of looking at your phone could actually be of some value.

A combination of Instagram, Linkedin, and Signal Messenger, Socios is globally present, allowing members to connect instantly. Just download the app, create your profile, explain what you are looking for, and get connected.

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MOVERS

‘Life is like basketball’ – Alexander Suski

Alexander took lessons he learned on the hard court in his journey from working in insurance sales to being among the head honchos of Dubai’s hospitality.

By Jojo Dass

‘It prepared me to deal with adversity and for sudden failure; as in sports, we all know that one can go from being a winner to a loser, and vice versa in just a fraction of a second.’

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Taking it from Michael Jordan

‘I can accept failure; everyone fails sometimes.

But I can’t accept not trying again.’

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lexander Suski, recently appointed acting chief executive officer at Ishraq Hospitality, could probably still hear the thump-thumping sound of a basketball hitting the wooden floor whenever it’s crunch time.

It’s been many years ago when he last played. But that unmistakable whiff of the hard court is still all around him, bringing back flashes of memories, whenever he ponders on his next move at work.

From sales to hospitality Having grown up in a little village in Belgium, Alexander was in the big league, playing professional basketball in his early 20’s, when an incident snuffed it all out.

“I had an injury and it forced me to quit from that career aspiration,” Alexander tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

For a moment, it seemed the world has dead-ended on Alexander, and he took the first thing he saw that could bring him back.

“From there, I worked in insurance sales, which was an exciting hardcore sales learning curve that taught me a lot,” he said.

The road he has taken eventually led him to hospitality. “I realized I really loved it and decided to develop myself further; it allowed me to travel and have amazing experiences.”

The rest, as the cliché goes, is history.

Head honcho These days, Alexander counts among Dubai hospitality’s head honchos with bragging rights to over 18 years of industry experience that spans Europe and the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, and more than a decade of strategic development in sales and marketing in these parts of the world.

Prior to his appointment as acting CEO at Ishraq Hospitality, Alexander was associate vice president for sales and marketing at Millennium Hotels and Resorts – MEA where he had a portfolio of 48 properties and over 40 future openings under his watch.

Before that, Alexander was area director of sales and marketing at Kempinksi Hotels in Egypt and Bahrain, then moved to UAE as director of sales

and marketing at Kempinski Hotel Ajman and Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. In this role, he reinvigorated sales and marketing strategies, market share, profit expansion and hotel brand repositioning to accelerate growth.

Alexander’s more than a decade-long valuable experience in Europe was integral to his vast understanding of the hospitality sector. He has worked with InterContinental Hotels & Resorts (IHG) in Warsaw; Sofitel Luxury Hotels (Accor) in Bruges-Ghent-Brussels-Luxemburg-Amsterdam; Crowne Plaza (IHG) in Brussels; and De Dikke Van Dale (Fletcher Hotels) in Holland.

‘The best way to get back on your feet is to self-assess with your team, your peers and managers: ‘What did I do wrong, or where do I learn from?’ Taking that learning to heart and acting on it immediately get you a step further.’

His previous post before he was appointed acting CEO at Ishraq Hospitality was group director for the company’s, Commercial and Business Development division, where he oversaw commercial operations and strategic expansion of seven hotel properties under InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG Hotels & Resorts) and Wyndham franchises. In addition, Alexander was also responsible for driving short- and longterm commercial strategies for the portfolio and developing Ishraq Hospitality’s well-recognized Hospitality Advisory Services for investors or hotel owners.

Ishraq Hospitality is a division of Mohamed &

Obaid AlMulla Group, one of the most dynamic and prominent business houses in UAE. Basketball Looking back, it’s all about basketball, after all.

“Being a professional basketball player when I was young, prepared me to deal with adversity and for sudden failure; as in sports, we all know that one can go from being a winner to a loser, and vice versa in a fraction of a second,” says Alexander.

“The best way to get back on your feet is to selfassess with your team, your peers and managers: ‘What did I do wrong, or where do I learn from?’

Taking that learning to heart and acting on it immediately get you a step further,” he added.

He said he takes it from Michael Jordan who once said: “I can accept failure; everyone fails sometimes. But I can’t accept not trying again.”

In his new post, Alexander will be playing team captain. “My key role is the expansion of the company, being, first, recognized as a leading white label hotel operator in the region; and second, the expansion of Holiday Inn Express in the Middle East,” he says.

“We will be only as successful as the team is,” he added, “so, it is important to have the right experts and motivated department heads in place.

Alexander said he has been very lucky to be brought up in a Belgian education system, which means Dutch, English, German and French were part of the regular curriculum.

“Then I decided to work in Brussels – and that meant working in a French spoken business environment all the time. Thanks to the diverse international professional path abroad and to working with all different nationalities, one is always practicing linguistics,” he says.

Alexander has been in Dubai for eight years and has no plans of leaving soon. “My family is here – wife and two daughters – and we love Dubai for all that is gives. For me home is where my family is.”

He has lived in Belgium, Luxemburg, Egypt and Bahrain, among others, travelling and moving around.

“Dubai is now home, and it is where we decided to settle down,” he said.

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MOVERS

Dr. Sharadchandra Prasad: Bringing his specialization to Dubai ‘It was gratifying to help patients with renal failure and provide them with various methods of treatment including transplant.’

By Jojo Dass

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r. Sharadchandra Prasad, specialist urologist from India, arrived in 2016 to practice his profession.

“I deal with diseases of the urinary tract mainly kidney stones, prostate problems, urinary infections, infertility and male sexual problems. I get to help people and alleviate their sufferings,” he tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

“In terms of experience, medical college was very satisfying as you would be exposed to diagnosing common to rare conditions and offer treatment in a multidisciplinary team,” he shares.

“We were heading the renal transplant team. It was gratifying to help patients with renal failure and provide them with various methods of treatment including renal transplant. Medical college is a place of great energy, wherein you are surrounded by inquisitive students, and learning is the main focus of many,” Dr. Sharadchandra said.

Dr. Sharadchandra have worked as an associate professor at the medical college in India. “This exposed me to the actual problems of the society and to work hard for its betterment,” he said.

The doctor says Dubai, being an expat city,

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provided him with an excellent platform to work with an international crowd and help solve their health problems.

“Dubai is the first city I have stayed in outside of India. It is an amazing place with the best city infrastructure. It is lively and vibrant with people of different nationalities staying together in a systematic and organized manner. It’s been like a home away from home. People here are very friendly and live in perfect harmony with each other,” he said.

“It also allows you to understand different cultures and beliefs,” he added.

Dubai is second home to people from over 250 countries.

Residing in Deira, Dr. Sharadchandra said he loves the place as he is constantly reminded of the old times – the Creek waterfront, museum, fort the

gold and spice souks… “you have it all here,” he said.

“The marina, on the other hand is the one of the best that Dubai can offer and reminds you how much the city has changed in such a short time.”

Dr. Sharadchandra said.

He said that being surrounded by “forwardlooking, positive-hearted people is a great motivation to continue staying here.

“I enjoy my work and am always ready to help,” he said.

Dr. Taghreed Almahmeed: ‘I am delighted to be able to offer this revolutionary new medical technique to women here in the UAE.’ Emirati/Bahraini medical specialist uses a brandnew technique that more accurately locates cancerous tissue, allowing for less invasive surgery.

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r. Taghreed Almahmeed, a consultant general surgeon at Dubai’s Al Zahra Hospital, is one of a handful of UAE surgeons with knowledge of a brandnew technique to exactly pinpoint non-palpable breast tumours via the use of a new subcutaneous radar reflector.

The size of a grain of rice, the reflector is placed under the skin via a small needle and helps to more accurately locate the cancerous growth and its depth under the skin, meaning the surgery only removes what’s necessary from the breast.

Not only is the new technology more effective in increasing the chances of complete cancer removal, but is less invasive and its accuracy reduces the chance of second surgery and any associated delays in follow-on, life-saving treatment, such as radiation therapy. Another advantage is that a more focused, concentrated surgical incision provides a more positive post-surgery cosmetic outcome for the patient.

Dr. Taghreed, who comes from an Emirati/ Bahraini background, said: “I am delighted to be able to offer this revolutionary new medical

technique to women here in the UAE. Throughout my career I have always strived to adopt the latest global best practices, technologies, and methods to help my patients increase their survival chances.

“This state-of-the-art new reflector offers cancer sufferers a real advantage – not only does it allow for more effective surgical intervention in terms of tumor location and removal, but any procedure that reduces time between breast surgery and radiation treatment can make a tangible difference

‘This state-of-the-art new reflector offers cancer sufferers a real advantage – not only does it allow for more effective surgical intervention in terms of tumor location and removal, but any procedure that reduces time between breast surgery and radiation treatment can make a tangible difference to people’s recovery.’

to people’s recovery,” she adds.

The US board-certified surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) has earned a reputation as an innovative leader, specializing in non-invasive cancer surgeries for women, and is one of few surgeons in the whole UAE licensed to use the new technology.

Dr Taghreed ensures the surgical protocols she follows are executed flawlessly and strongly believes in going the extra mile and making a lasting difference to patients’ lives. Restoring their hope and health has been her inspiration everyday throughout her 27-year career and therefore devotes as much time as possible to establish a relationship that is built on trust by meeting her patients, answering their questions and understanding their cases.

Dr Taghreed had also worked at various hospitals in the US and Canada with each role helping build her vast knowledge and reputation for excellence. Throughout her career, Dr Taghreed has published several peer-reviewed journals and undertaken a number of research activities.

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STORIES

The pandemic changed his life, too Gopal Sudhakaran loves to travel. These days he clings on, waiting for the world to rise up to a new day. ‘It’s just a matter of time,’ he says.

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he world has gone through worse trials, says Gopal Sudhakaran, media and marketing manager at a diverse 40-yearold, UAE-based consumer retail and trade company.

“We have had the 1918 Spanish Flu that lasted two years in four waves and killed up to 100 million people around the world and they made it back then,” he said.

“How much more today with the coronavirus pandemic where we have become so advanced and moved by leaps and bounds? This is not the end of the world. There is always a bright side. This will come to an end. It is just a matter of time,” Gopal added.

Gopal, an Indian national who obtained his MBA from the prestigious University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom, said travelling used to be a hobby.

“I love to explore different destinations, experience different cuisines and understand cultures. Now, I’m waiting for the world to be back on track,” Gopal said.

The pandemic, says Gopal, “happened just so out of the blue.” And it tested humankind’s resilience and survival instincts, he said.

From the business perspective, Gopal said the pandemic actually caused their company – which is into a range of consumer products from photography, IT and medical field to electronics, travel, beauty accessories and even a one-stop coffee shop – to fast-track its digitalization process.

“We were already working on our digitalization prior to the pandemic. Now, we have a full-fledged e-Commerce platform,” he said.

Gopal arrived in Dubai around 2003. “I have seen the whole transformation of the city, which is absolutely fantastic,” he said.

He has been with the same company since circa 2005-06.

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Chef Krushnath: ‘Fire in my belly, passion for excellence and an eye for detail.’

‘Gordon Ramsay has been my inspiration right from the beginning; I have been lucky enough to kick-start my journey from Gordon Ramsay London.’

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hef Krushnath Ramesh Jadhav, Chef de Cuisine at a fivestar UAE hotel, describes himself as a “very simple, small town boy” in India, who chased a dream that led him to Mumbai, where he got his college degree in hospitality and tourism management, then on to London, where he studied international culinary arts from Ealing Hammersmith & West London College before finally kicking off his career at Gordon Ramsay London.

“Gordon Ramsay has been my inspiration right from the beginning; I have been lucky enough to kick-start my journey from Gordon Ramsay London,” award-winning Chef Krushnath tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

And he is just getting started.

“There still is a lot to learn in my culinary journey, and by true leadership and management, I would like to see myself become a successful executive chef,” he says.

Asked about what drove him to embark on his journey, Chef Krushnath, couldn’t be more precise: “Fire in my belly, passion for excellence and an eye for detail.”

“Creativity continuously developing culinary techniques to offer innovative dining experience keeps me going,” Chef Krushnath said.

Chef Krushnath says he believes in quality over quantity.

“For me, cooking is all about five elements put together to make a fantastic dish. These are salt, fat, acid, heat and spices,” he says.

Chef Krushnath also loves to share his knowledge, learned from mentors like the famous Chef Indrajit as well as Chef Angad, and teach new talents. “I want to see them grow and become successful chefs themselves,” he said.

Chef Krushnath continuously develops culinary techniques to offer innovative dining experience. He has extensive experience in the hospitality industry, confidently managing all-day dining, in-room dining, banquet and club lounge in fast-paced settings, producing high-quality food. w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |

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STORIES

Renata Messarra flies on her own Working in Dubai for over 10 years has enabled her to learn the ropes of entrepreneurship.

‘I have travelled to over 40 countries and the experience helped me to have a better grasp of the world.’

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eople don’t stay in one place too long, they move up. That’s how they do it in Dubai.

Renata Messarra, managing director at

Reborn Consultancy,

a public relations firm, started out in this expat city more than 10 years ago, fresh from finishing her BA in Advertising and Marketing in Lebanon.

“I decided to move to Dubai to discover my potentials. After getting employed in great companies, where I’ve been given the chance to perform my work in domains like corporate events, media, outdoor marketing, fashion and hospitality among others, I have decided to fly on my own. I’ve always been interested in entrepreneurship since day one,” Renata tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

She brings more than a decade of experience with particular strengths in the areas of digital marketing, events and public relations especially in the food and beverage industry. Her years of creative experience were acquired from handling well-known local and international brands.

Renata, who was born in Lebanon and raised in Bologna, Italy, has recently formed her own public relations firm that, she says, “really fills a gap in the market…with a vision of being a leading communication agency in the UAE, focused on delivering award-winning campaigns.”

“I’ve been in Dubai for over 10 years, which allowed me to see the evolution of the market and understand how Dubai will be the best living city in the world based on His Highness Sheikh Mohamad Al Maktoum’s vision,” says Renata.

She added: “I have travelled to over 40 countries, and the experience helped me to have a better

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grasp of the world by learning and experiencing the different cultures of each country that I have visited.

“Dubai is my place to go for work. I’ve never felt working anywhere else as there are all nationalities under one roof here and it’s so dynamic.”

What keeps her going?

“Challenges and achieving my goals. And mostly being surrounded by the people I love, who are the key when it comes to supporting me in reaching my dreams and ambitions. In the end, the foundations of successful business are simple: experience, goals, purpose, passion and most important, values,” says Renata.

Another thing, she says, is that Dubai is “home to everyone who has a dream.” The city, she added, “offers all the opportunities for everyone to achieve the impossible as long as they are a hard worker.”

“Opportunities knock at your door everyday.”

STORIES

‘Life is just like ice cream … (enjoy it before it melts)’ – Vasco Joao Magalhaes Valenca de Sousa Meet the guy behind Dubai’s latest craze: vegan ice cream

By Jojo Dass

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Vasco and his experimental journey of happiness

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isbon-born Vasco Joao Magalhaes Valenca de Sousa would rather “break on through to the other side,” as the late Jim Morrison would say, than stay banal.

“Facing the challenge of touching the unknown; the ‘never seen before’; the pleasure of creating ‘flavored emotions’ before they exist,” says Vasco, is what keeps him going.

And in a world veering toward veganism, ice cream man Vasco has just made things a bit more exciting, coming up with…(drum roll please)… vegan ice cream!

“I had a few friends who couldn’t taste my ice cream creations simply because they were intolerant to milk, or because they were vegans,” shares Vasco.

“One day, I came to a point of getting upset with myself for not being able to satisfy some of those friends, and the whole thing became a priority for me, almost like an obsession driven by my passion for ice cream! The Brooklyn Creamery offered me the chance to share those creations with the world,” he said.

And so, Vasco started his journey into vegan ice cream territory, taking off from the award-winning motivational speaker, Art Berg’s comments on life.

“As I normally say, ‘The impossible just takes a little longer.’ I kept creating and optimizing my recipes every day in a continuous improvement mode.

That’s probably the reason why I am absolutely not afraid of being copied, because when that moment comes, I know I am already running an improved series of my own creations,” says Vasco.

“I kept making ‘flavor puzzles’ in my brain every day. Recipes build up in my head and I can taste them and preview my emotions before turning them into a practical thing in the lab,” he added.

Indeed, Vasco says he has become so obsessed, in a good way, with his own creations, and with the sustainability value of the vegan solutions, to the point that it suddenly was all about ice cream!

“Life is just like ice cream … to be enjoyed before melting,” he said when asked about his existential reason for being.

“I understand life as an experimental journey of happiness. We should build and develop our skills not because we have to, but because we love to; because it makes us happier. We should make a difference as a natural result of our obsession, of enjoying doing every little thing we do for a living,” says Vasco.

Vasco and Dubai Vasco, who has been calling Dubai home for the last seven years, has travelled to Portugal, The Netherlands and Denmark. “In the past, I have also travelled often to most of the European countries, the Middle East, South America and China,” he says.

And how does he find Dubai, an expat city of people from over 250 countries?

“It’s an amazing place. I call it my innovation harbor (If you can dream Dubai … you can build

Dubai) An experimental and inspirational city (always re-inventing itself). And, of course, it’s a great place to live – and in my case, to explore my ice cream passions!”

Vasco, who has been writing a book during his free time, says that if any, life is encapsulated in renowned American visionary and inventor, Richard Buckminster Fuller’s ageless quote: “There is no such thing as a failed experiment, only experiments with unexpected outcomes.”

“My best creations often come from small mistakes and from following unconventional routes. Many times, in that randomly erratic territory (pain), you find the answers (gain) to unsolved puzzles,” Vasco says.

His future plans? “To continue trying to make a difference.”

‘My best creations often come from small mistakes and from following unconventional routes.’

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COVER STORY

Sara Soares Way ahead of her time Sara recently came up with a latest venture that’s close to her heart, something that adds flavor to Dubai’s eclectic dining scene: Holly Organico, a vegan paradise.

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Sara Soares is brand advisor to international companies, a seasoned market analyst, Dubai real property investor and a mining company board member; she’s also behind the latest craze in town: Holly Organico, serving plant-based meals with a Brazilian twist.

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ndeed! At 24, Brazilian model Sara Soares is way ahead of her time and there’s just no stopping her.

A seasoned market analyst, who also is brand advisor to international companies, while at same time having investments in Dubai’s real property and sitting on the board of an ethical mining company, Sara, it seems, never gets her hands full.

She recently came up with a latest venture that’s close to her heart, something that strays a bit away from the daily grind and adding flavor instead to Dubai’s eclectic dining scene: Holly Organico, a vegan paradise.

“I became plant-based about two years ago. It was a real life-changing experience that helped not only my body, but mind and soul as well,” Sara tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

A globetrotter, Sara one day decided to use her keen interest in food and bring Brazilian flavor to Dubai, offering not only vegan delicacies but as well, specialties from her home country.

“I have been traveling extensively across the globe to study and know more about different food cultures and choices, thinking of how to bring these new ideas to my business,” says Sara.

“All my travel inspires me to create a truly interesting menu for the restaurant, bringing in concepts from other countries so that I could offer vegan choices to all nationalities,” she added.

The culinary fusion, which expat city Dubai has never had a shortage of, was just perfect. The dining concept, waiting to be explored. All it took was a thought cloud up Sara’s mind saying, “It’s finally here!”

Vegan thoughts Veganism, Sara says, came at a time when people were waking up to a new eco-friendly, health lifestyle.

“With our new reality unfolding around the world, many people are changing their food consumption patterns. Health, sustainability, respect for animals and the environment have become a priority in everything we do and how we live our lives,” Sara said.

Market trends support veganism, with about 70 percent of the population looking for ways to improve their diets through reduced meat consumption.

“It’s clear that when more people join the cause, industries and businesses follow. What was previously a minority has now become millions of people around the world turning towards healthy eating and veganism. The vegan revolution is already a reality and it is advancing every day to improve the lives of consumers around the world,” said Sara.

Popular hang-out Dubai, a gastronomic trend setter where, as Sara puts it, “all the world comes and goes through 24 hours a day,” now has a growing number of vegan restaurants. “But,” she stressed, “Holly Organico offers great variety, constantly experimenting to deliver unique sweet and savory food.”

Holly Organico opened in February this year. Sara said the feedback on the diversified menu has been “very encouraging and positive.”

“Our restaurant has in-house dinning, catering and frozen options. It is geared to serve many types of customers and events.

“The indoor ambience is very serene as we have incorporated precious stone collections to bring good energy and vibe. Holly Organico has become quite a popular hang-out spot for customers on Al Wasl Road,” she said Brazilian magic Flavorsome spices and mouthwatering aromas

comprise the magic of Brazilian culinary wonders that spread happiness to mealtimes!

“We always use fresh ingredients and lovingly create many different combinations of these to bring you dishes that are both healthy and delicious. We have a ‘Dish of the Day’ that is a specially selected ‘showstopper’ of our popular menu, made fresh and prepared to perfection!”

Sara says.

“Don’t even get me started on our finger food! The empanadas and savory are always being restocked in the kitchen and these hardly stay on the shelf. All our butters, cheeses and spreads are homemade, the Nutella is a restaurant favorite. We also make vegan cakes from the best vegan ingredients, often using dates to sweeten our gluten free options for the cakes or savories.

“They say that the best way to know the history of a place is through the types of food it offers!

Take the opportunity to explore typical Brazilian delicacies in our restaurant,” Sara said.

Hobby Despite all these activities, Sara still finds time for model shoots – but more as a hobby.

“I enjoy being able to reinvent myself as a model and change the way I look to create different personas and characters. The creative process and variety are what I enjoy the most.

“On the outside, it seems like a luxury lifestyle choice. But in reality, a lot of hard work goes into each shoot and this requires dedication and good time management,” she shared.

At 24, Sara’s journey presses on. “I have had solid professional help to achieve my objectives and establish my business successfully,” she said.

“It’s not an easy road to embark on, but hard work, passion and devotion can take you to any place you aspire to be in,” Sara added.

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COVER STORY

‘I have had solid professional help to achieve my objectives and establish my business successfully.

It’s not an easy road to embark on, but hard work, passion and devotion can take you to any place you aspire to be in.’

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STORIES

Saakshi Khubani: Creating content with a wider appeal

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rought up in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Saakshi Khubani noticed that Dubai’s local media scene is saturated with content targeted at only a handful of ethnicities, which actually comes as no surprise considering the city’s multi-cultural set-up where each ethnic communities tend to have its own way of keeping abreast about what’s going on, mostly through social media.

“I hope to create content with a wider appeal,” Saakshi tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

“When I initially came to Dubai in 2016, it felt foreign to me, even though the culture is quite similar to that of Saudi’s. It took me a while to adjust, but I happened to fall in love with Dubai eventually.

“I love the diversity in terms of cultures a little too much as it helps me understand different people as well as learn a thing or a two about each culture.

Also, this city never sleeps, one can never get bored with the number of things to look forward to every single day!” she added.

Saakshi, born in India, said her passion for the public relations industry and her goal to one day be able to “create impactful campaigns that can genuinely prove to be helpful to the society,” keeps her going, not to mention family and friends, “who are so supportive of everything I wish to accomplish in life.”

Saakshi, with her voracious appetite for the communications industry, has done an opinion piece on mass communication in the UAE, which has been notably featured in one of the national dailies, she had co-developed a public relations campaign that won second place in a competition hosted by the Ramada Ajman, and participated in a Student Integrated PR campaign at the Dubai Lynx - Festival of Creativity 2019.

Moreover, while pursuing her BA in Media, PR, and Advertising at Middlesex University Dubai, Saakshi further explored the local media scene with

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several internships, workshops, conferences, and competitions. Her internships gave her backstage access to world-renowned brands and industry giants like ADNOC, Burberry, Roberto Cavalli, the Jumeirah Group, and Tiffany.

It’s her fondness for the arts and writing since she was a child that enabled Saakshi to find her love for communications and socializing, which the public relations industry fused.

“Given my love for art and events since childhood, unlike most people my age who were undecided about their career, I knew from the very beginning that I wanted to do my bachelor’s in communications,” Saakshi said.

“I then decided to move to the UAE to pursue B.A in PR, Media, and Advertising from Middlesex University Dubai. Throughout my three years in university, I took up several internships in multiple agencies including and volunteered for several events to understand different roles that exist within the media industry. After graduation, I decided to take a job in PR as it naturally aligned with my passion and gave me a chance to build on multiple skills at once,” she added.

End of the day, she said there is “nothing in this world that you cannot do if you put your mind to it and there is no one in this world that can replace you.”

STORIES

Sweet dreams are made of silk Accountant advocates mental health through fashion pajama clothing line.

‘I think the work culture (in Dubai) is much different, and there’s pressure for people to work relentlessly long hours. But we often neglect and forget that rest and reflection are just as important for our well-being… to allow us perform at an optimal level.’ – Natasha Inman

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All work, no sleep is bad ‘I try to be an advocate in promoting ways people can invest in their own mental well-being. I wanted a brand where I could combine my passion for posh pajamas and help raise awareness on the importance of good mental health.’

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n expat herself, Natasha Inman is no stranger to the issues involved in living thousands of miles away from home.

Coming from Leeds, a city north of England where she has stayed for some 29 years and worked as a licensed accountant for 10 years, Natasha moved to Dubai in February last year. “(I) immediately discovered the infectious energy here and desire to succeed,” Natasha tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

But as the narrative goes, there’s a price for everything.

“The absence of friends and family is a huge contributing factor; the majority of your support network is no longer in touching distance.

Adjusting to a new life, new job and a new culture

can be a lot to take on in a short space of time and often leads to higher levels of mental stress and anxiety,” says Natasha.

“I also think the working culture is much different to other countries and there’s a pressure for people to work relentlessly long hours and weekends.

Everyone has the physical capability to sit at a desk for 15 hours a day, but we often neglect and forget that rest and reflection are just as important for our wellbeing and to allow us to perform at an optimal level,” she added.

Natasha, who advocates mental health, said sleep, along with exercise and a good diet, help in finding the life balance.

One silver lining to last year’s lockdowns, she said, was that it enabled her to discover her inner entrepreneur, which led her to create a sleepwear range made of silk.

“Not only is the smooth, frictionless texture of silk comfortable to wear and sleep on, it also comes with a myriad of health benefits - it keeps your hair and skin hydrated and it helps keep you cool,” Natasha says.

There is also a core belief in it: “Having suffered from poor mental health in the past, I try to be an advocate in promoting ways people can invest in their own mental well-being. I wanted a brand where I could combine my passion for posh pajamas, help raise awareness of the importance

of good mental health and contribute to a positive change in the world,” Natasha says.

And so, in her efforts to be socially responsible, Natasha donates AED 15 to the Al Jalila Foundation to support mental health research, for every purchase made on stateofrem.com.

“Having a successful brand and business is important to me. But making a positive change to society and the world gives me even greater satisfaction. I want people to buy from ‘State of REM’ and leave with the best pair of pajamas they’ve ever bought, with the knowledge that they’ve also made a positive contribution to society and someone’s life,” Natasha says, referring to her sleepwear range’s brand name.

“I think State of REM’ has given me a renewed sense of purpose. It’s what gets me up in the morning and what I dream about at night. Having something to focus on that you’re interested in and passionate about when you’re away from friends and family has given me a lot of stability and focus,” she says.

Dubai, she added, has also influenced her. “Being surrounded by inspiring entrepreneurs and successful businesses has really rubbed off on me. If I was still back in the UK, I don’t think I would have set up this brand, Dubai has definitely inspired me to start and find my purpose,” she says.

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STORIES

Naomi Bell: Breaking stereotypes about women wanting to be beautiful

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‘We just want to be the best versions of ourselves to feel confident and comfortable.’ – Naomi Bell, beauty therapist

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ver wondered why women take so much time in the dressing room, putting all sort of cosmetics on their faces from eyebrow pencils to eyeliners, lipsticks, powder… the whole nine yards!

And what about that wicked queen who asked the mirror, “Who’s the fairest of them all?”

“Each woman is beautiful in her own way – but I believe true beauty comes from the inside and is reflected in the soul,” says Naomi Bell, beauty therapist who runs a parlor in the city.

“I don’t think that as women, we strive to be ‘beautiful’ as all women already are,” she says.

“I think we just want to be the best versions of ourselves in order to feel confident and comfortable.”

Naomi, who’s from Liverpool in the UK, grew up in Dubai, having been here since she was five years old. She left after school for the UK to study then came back in 2017.

“I am originally from Liverpool, UK. However, I have spent the majority of my childhood in the Middle East. I left Dubai in 2012 once I finished my A Levels to complete my Beauty qualifications in the UK. I came back to Dubai in 2017 where I set up NRBeauty originally as a freelancer Beauty Therapist before opening the salon in February 2020,” she said.

And what does she love most about her work?

“Day to day, I meet so many ladies in my job.

They all come to us with different concerns and goals. What I love the most is helping these ladies enhance what they already have and having them leave the salon with a glowing smile on their face feeling more confident in themselves,” Naomi says.

“Dubai is home for me. My parents are here, which is great. After spending over 20 years now in the UAE, I have seen the city change dramatically,” she added.

Naomi said her goals keep her going. “Having something to work towards and focus on keeps me going and drives me forward in a positive direction,” she says.

Ramla Shahid: Enjoying her work-life balance

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orn in London, Ramla Shahid, works at a public relations company “that looks into providing the best possible work-life balance,” she says.

“They have recently introduced the 4.5-day week that aims to give us more time to spend with family and to focus on wellbeing, which I love,” Ramla tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

Having been in Dubai for just the past three years, Ramla grew up and went to school in Abu Dhabi.

“I was previously living and studying in London and worked at Harrods London – a luxury retail store – as a project consultant,” she shares.

“I grew up and went to school in Abu Dhabi and then moved to London for university and studied my bachelor’s in Marketing & Advertising with Media,” Ramla said.

“I then carried on doing my masters in Luxury Brand Management and also an MBA. I moved back to Abu Dhabi to where my family was settled and started working. After that I moved to Dubai and started to peruse my career in PR,” she added.

Growing up in Abu Dhabi, Ramla is awestruck with Dubai’s diversity of cultures – more like the whole world in one expat city!

“The city’s diversity is unmatched. I have friends and colleagues from various countries and I keep learning about new cultures and traditions,” Ramla says.

“It is analogous to when you visit a new country as a tourist and learn about its culture and people, which you learn in Dubai as you live by – and it is just fascinating!

“All this is a result of a visionary Leadership, which has enabled an exceptional environment of tolerance for all nationalities, cultures and religions,” she said.

Dubai, Ramla further said, is a unique city in the sense that it has a lifestyle for people from every walks of life.

“If you want luxury and extravagance, you can find it here, as well as you can find budget restaurants and shopping in abundance. The best way to put it is that Dubai can be as expensive or affordable as you want it to be, and that’s what makes it such an attractive destination globally,” she said.

The people and their kindness as well as a sense of belonging keep Ramla going, she said, as she moves forward to explore more and continuing to learn, which is what her life philosophy is all about, she said.

‘I was previously living and studying in London, then worked at Harrods London – a luxury retail store – as a project consultant,’ Ramla tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

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STORIES

‘Heroes need not have supernatural powers’ Chris Daymon says they can also be those doing swab tests or Covid vaccs.

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hen he was a kid, Chris Daymon’s idea of a hero was largely inspired by a collection of early Superman comics.

“A ‘hero,’” he tells Dubai Vibes Magazine, “was somebody who had supernatural powers like being able to fly or have laser vision or the strength to bend steel.”

“But as I grew up,” he added, “I realized everyone can be a hero and an inspiration to many.”

Indeed, the pandemic tested everyone’s survival skills. And for Chris, it was about a career shift from being a successful fashion writer and a researcher to a Covid nurse.

“In March last year, I lost my job as a researcher for a semi-government company that track updates and news on construction projects in the region.

After being jobless for a month and two weeks, I realized that the pain, anguish and despair at times

could be really unbearable. I was depressed. It was difficult to think where to get your means of income,” recalls Chris.

“One of my friends told me to try my luck at being Covid-19 Nurse. I got the job and became team leader of a Swab Team in Ajman. Then I was transferred to Al Razeen 4 Quarantine Facilities in Abu Dhabi where I became the head nurse of the evening shift.

“Today, I am working with a Dubai team as a Covid-19 vaccination nurse. I have been lucky enough to have had the pleasure of meeting some healthcare professionals, who have inspired me.

“My life experiences have helped me realize that I feel the best about myself when I am given the opportunity to help and care for others,” Chris says.

Having a career revision was tough, he said.

“There will be certain adjustments. But it’s more challenging. In the nursing profession, you deal with many aspects of patient care, and I enjoy the variety in the routine.

“At the risk of personal safety, we go to work every day at a clinic or hospital and help patients deal with symptoms related to Covid-19. It is an act of great courage to willingly enter an environment that could expose us to the coronavirus,” Chris says.

Despite this, he said he is always ready to go back to the frontline. “That is where I am needed,” he said.

Chris arrived in Dubai six years ago. His first job was being a customer service and sales. He met iconic Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco who saw his talent in writing and collaborated with him.

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STORIES

Spreading Spanish culinary wonders in Dubai Lloy Rubio Drummond brings his artsy skills in the restaurant ‘As a Spaniard, it makes me proud to show Dubai a bit of our culture and gastronomy.’

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Have you ever tried challenging the challenges? ‘Ít is important to find the right people you trust and who share the same goal.’

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loy Rubio Drummond studied artistic baccalaureate in Barcelona, as he had always wanted to be an interior designer.

“Things have turned a bit,” he tells Dubai Vibes Magazine, “and so now I am implementing some of my creative and artsy skills in the restaurants, I work at.”

Born in Barcelona, Lloy, who has also lived in Ibiza, first arrived in Dubai in February 2013, looking for a different work environment and career experience.

“I was approached by a manager I had in Ibiza. He offered me a position in Jumeirah Group, and since then, it has been a very satisfying rollercoaster experience.

“I guess it is true what they say: ‘If after the second year you are still in Dubai, you must be liking it.’

Dubai has given me many positive things – on the professional and personal side.”

Lloy left Dubai in March 2018 for a new experience with Sunset Hospitality in Lisbon, Portugal, and stayed afterward in Barcelona for another year.

“We were homesick. So, we wanted to live sometime in Europe close to our families. But, we missed Dubai so much we decided to make a move back to the desert in August 2020,” he recalls.

Lloy is general manager at Lola Taberna Española, a casual dining Spanish restaurant in Barsha Heights.

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STORIES

Sid Rivera does the ‘dance of life’ ‘I have just been in Dubai for a week when I got a job as a telco sales guy. I didn’t have the vaguest idea how to deal with people of different nationalities.

I just knew I had to make a sale and I did.’

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id Rivera grew up in a province back home in the Philippines and was only able to experience the big city life during college, where he successfully pursued a degree in hotel and restaurant management as a working student, and obtained his diploma a Dean’s Lister.

Fresh out of college at 20, Sid tried his luck in Dubai. It was 2016.

“I have just been in the city for a week when I got a job as a telco sales guy. I didn’t have the vaguest idea how to deal with people of different nationalities. I just knew I had to make a sale, promote the company’s services and products… and I did,” Sid tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

“I have grown used to dealing with people, but Dubai was a bit at a different level and so I quickly adjusted to the work culture,” he said.

Sid then moved to a travel agency where he took on a bigger responsibility of marketing the company’s services. Today, Sid works as team coordinator at a real estate company.

The sense of camaraderie holds firm in Sid’s motto.

“When I got my first salary, I bought groceries and sent these to typhoon victims in the Philippines. It’s my way of giving back and it runs in my family,” said Sid. “One of the most important things for me is to enjoy a good work-life balance. By doing so, I retain the energy and passion I need to give my hundred percent at work.

“The ability to choose from among a diverse range of tasks was one of the best features I was able to develop in my previous job. My organization worked closely with a variety of societies and charities. As a result, the list of tasks I received included project management, public relations, strategy, and marketing. Each project provided a different challenge. As well as learning a wide range of skills to help the company, I was able to approach each new task with a fresh mindset. This, in turn, increased my level of creativity,” said Sid. Looking back, Sid said his has been a journey full of learnings, “a dance of life,” he said, that sometimes caused him to stumble when he was not looking, and rise up again, in a manner graciously like it didn’t happen.

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STORIES

‘I was a superskinny guy; at 14, I started to work out as I wanted to be an army officer.’

It did not pan out for Mohamed Naeem Salama, who took to modelling instead and now has bragging rights to several titles.

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certified personal trainer and fitness model who was originally from Alexandria in Egypt, Mohamed Naeem Salama had wanted to join the army.

“I was a super-skinny guy; and at the age of 14, I started to work out because I wanted to be an army officer.

But it wasn’t meant to be . So, I continued and take it to modeling,” he tells Dubai Vibes Magazine.

Since then, Mohamed joined competitions and now has bragging rights to a string of awards and titles – second runner-up Mr. Dubai 2014; Mr. Fitness Dubai 2016; and Top 15 fitness model in Las Vegas 2018, among others.

“I have done a lot of commercials and been featured in different magazines and newspapers. I have also been a brand ambassador for international companies,” says Mohamed.

“We always need to believe in our gifts and even if only 1% of the people believe in you, that is already more than enough.

I have learned that we always need to be grateful for what we have and help each other,” he said.

Mohamed said it is all about dreaming big, working hard and setting goals.

“Also,” he said, “I believe everyone has a gift, so my advice is for them to find this gift and link it to education and a dream.”

Mohamed said he plans to keep going and invest in himself, work hard and to enjoy life.

“We only have one life, so we need to enjoy it to the maximum,” he says.

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