Dubai Vibes Magazine | Issue 11 | January 2022 by dubaivibesmagazine

VOL 1 • ISSUE 11 • JANUARY 2022

Expat stories. What’s yours?

DJ Tom Higham: Bringing his Turntablism and Passion to Dubai

Vijay Bhatia

How to keep a positive frame of mind?

Emirati magician Moein Al Bastaki shows how charity and magic becomes an act of passion Fatima Zahra Alaoui: What’s inside the entrepreneur’s mind?

For Dubai Vibes Magazine advertising, partnerships and other promotions, kindly send email at this address: bella@dubaivibesmagazine.ae or call 0544585440

From the publisher Vijay Bhatia started his tourism business amid a pandemic, and many people are questioning him about his decision to open up an enterprise in a volatile moment. But as a man of independence, he solidified his self-trust.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

STAFF BOX Publisher Gabriel John Rimando

Editor-in-Chief Angelo Dumag

Contributing Writers Amanda Hensley Zainab Shahid Archie Reyes

Sales and Marketing Manager- Dubai & Northern Emirates Elaine Anne ‘Bella’ Marbella

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Sales and Marketing Manager - Abu Dhabi Abdelkarim Mohamed Madkour is currently the manager of the Al Mamzar Community Restaurant in Dubai. He was a graduate of hotel and tourism in Egypt. And throughout his professional life, he focused on working with different internationally acclaimed hotels, restaurants, and cafés in Egypt and other parts of the globe. “My work experience has been primarily in restaurants and cafes for the last twenty years, via international hotels and restaurants with high names in the food and beverage industry,” he shared.

Joel Lara Genove

Graphic Designer

Dj Tom Higham: Bringing His Turntablism And Passion To Dubai (Pages 14-15)

Allan Caragao

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

dubaivibesmag dubaivibesmagazine DubaiVibesMagazine.ae Dubai Vibes Magazine

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Migration Specialist Karun Luthra is already a legend in the consultation industry. Throughout his career, he has been into sales and consultation. His comprehensive journey in influencing and guiding people to have the best decision supports him to become a developed individual and service-oriented motivator.

Emirati Magician Moein Al Bastaki Shows How Charity And Magic Becomes An Act Of Passion (Pages 20-21)

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ON THE COVER

This is more good reads in the latest edition of Dubai Vibes Magazine. Enjoy.

Fatima Zahra Alaoui: What’s Inside The Entrepreneur’s Mind? (Pages 28-29)

Vijay Bhatia is the Managing Director of Jules Tourism, a 52-year-old businessman, and the owner of five different companies in different parts of the globe. He is a Singaporean national but an Indian by race.

Abdelkarim Mohamed Madkour Passionate Restauranter Advocates for Positive Atmosphere in Business A legendary restaurateur creates positivity in the workplace by sharing his skills accompanied by his goals and aspirations. He always makes sure that every employee, affiliate, and customer will feel success and satisfaction at the end of the day.

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“Honesty, sincerity, love, and motivation at work results to an amazing outcome.”

bdelkarim is currently the manager of the Al Mamzar Community Restaurant in Dubai. He was a graduate of hotel and tourism in Egypt. And throughout his professional life, he focused on working with different internationally acclaimed hotels, restaurants, and cafés in Egypt and other parts of the globe. “My work experience has been primarily in restaurants and cafes for the last twenty years, via international hotels and restaurants with high names in the food and beverage industry. I have worked in both Egypt and the Netherlands, and now Dubai in roles related to this field,” he shared. His career in the United Arab Emirates started in 2013 when he experienced working as a manager for a hotel. After some time, he decided to return to the restaurant and café industry. Even though a legend in the restaurant and café field, Abdelkarim still strives to develop and face challenges to improve his skills and make a difference. Passion begets happiness “To be able to enjoy work requires love and sincerity, a desire to develop

professionally, respect to colleagues and a willingness to work with them, acceptance of new challenges, accomplishment of tasks entrusted, the value of happiness of clients, and exceeding costumers’ expectations,” Abdelkarim said. According to him, his passion and happiness complement one another in his current company. In that sense, he finds no problem in the workplace. His love for serving people makes him feel rewarded and contended.

He also added that Dubai is not only beautiful aesthetically. Moreover, the city treats people with tolerance, respect, and appreciation. It is a whole pluralistic society that makes it more wonderful. This man of determination and service also thinks of settling down in Dubai and creating businesses in Dubai and Egypt.

“We’re working with a respected company that values and appreciates its employees, listens to work needs, and collaborates to finish duties,” he added. His life after work primarily evolves with different kinds of sports and going out to the beach to enjoy the sun and water. He also visits his family every end of the week. Dubai is beautiful According to Abdelkarim, “The United Arab Emirates is a well-respected country that values diversity and does not discriminate against citizens or visitors based on race, religion, or nationality.”

ChengLing “Jojo” Zhang Chinese Entrepreneur sees Dubai as a hub of opportunities and Innovation.

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“When you gain confidence and success, all of your efforts will pay off,” she said.

xecutive Vice President of One Road Group- Dubai, ChengLing “Jojo” Zhang, described the city of Dubai as a place of great culture and possibility. Her love for business and success always drives a young entrepreneur like Jojo. This woman of business has stayed in Dubai for almost ten years, creating opportunities and helping Dubai in different innovation projects from structures to transportations. According to Jojo, Dubai gave her a lot of breaks that helped her be a person of freedom. A promising start-up of business would likely be difficult for anyone, but Dubai let her realize that: “This city has variants of cultures, and it

is open for 150 nationalities. The city is also famous for its oil and gas, tourism, and financial center.” The beginning As a Chinese, she has constantly been reminded to be practical in life and do her best to learn more about everything. At first, Jojo struggled much in the usage of the English language. Moreover, she knew things slowly until she developed her confidence. Jojo’s first job in Dubai was as a trader of oil and gas. Since she enjoyed her work, excitement will always be part of her everyday routine. After some time, she decided to let her fortune bring her luck. “Starting a business in oil and gas was challenging. I was a trader before, and I experienced how difficult it was. Procedures and process of business in Dubai are different,” she said. One Road Group The One Road Group is a Chinese company whose initiative to build One Road resulted in many projects developing in Dubai, primarily transportation-related activities.

“I am proud to have this business. When you want to have anything, please continue to do it; nothing is impossible,” she said. She added that in creating a business, a person should always think smart about an idea. Based on her experience, she waited for two years to build her business, and it was all worth the wait. Lastly, Jojo is very thankful for Dubai. The city gave her a lot of opportunities. She also considered the emirate as part of her life.

Rabih Arabi Expat hospitality guru is making waves in Dubai’s food and beverage industry

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“I am a Syrian, but Filipino by heart.”

Syrian national Rabih Arabi makes waves in one of the busiest cities globally, Dubai, by creating his taste of delicious cuisines from integrating various cultures of different countries. Rabih is the owner of Barako Art Café and Pinoy Word located in Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai. His intelligence gave him a margin to target many nationalities for his businesses. And now, he bent his move to participate with the Filipino community’s desires. This innovative man started working in Dubai as a chef before coming up with his business concept. As a resident and employee of Dubai for the last 24 years, he built a network and learned how the emirate’s

business

changed.

Living in Hospitality Industry His background in the hospitality management realm is a mix of further studies and a time-based experience. He graduated from a university with a degree in hospitality. His theoretical ideas turned to reality when he started working after his education. For a long period of working in Dubai, his first work as a chef led him to be a man of courage, determination, and ambitions. His aspirations to grow and cultivate his visions never stopped, even he had good work at that moment. According to him, loving Dubai makes him happy and contented. He also considered Dubai home of productive individuals who believe that everything is possible. “In Dubai, time is moving very fast. I love Dubai, and this place is a home for me. As long as I feel happy, I will stay in Dubai. Dubai is successful,” he said.

world of food and beverages. “I am a concept builder. I make a perception of the world. I have many notions of food and beverages from Italian and now Filipino cuisines and coffee,” he shared. Filipino spirit According to Rabih, Barako Art Café is like a small house of Batangas in Dubai. It offers a variety of Filipino foods and their best seller Barako coffee (a coffee bean from the Philippines). “Filipino friends helped me developed the concept of Barako Café and Pinoy Word. I selected the Filipino idea because the community has a vast audience in Al Rigga, Deira. I love Kabayans (Filipinos); they are so peaceful and intelligent. Currently, his business is a home of many Filipinos and other nationalities who love to try variants of coffee proudly made by the Barako Café itself.

Rabih considered himself a concept builder. Aside from being an expert in hospitality, he also loves to intellectualize and revolutionize the

Chef Omar ‘Stay hungry and passionate, and things will fall into place.

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“I believe that when you cook food in season, that will taste better, and that makes you a better chef,” he said.

hef Omar is an Executive Chef and restaurant owner who is constantly learning and bringing new ideas to the culinary world. Omar Rodriguez grew up in San Francisco, California, and moved to New York to start his culinary journey. He stayed in “The Big Apple” for almost half of his life. In that city, his spirit molded him to become practical and wise in the world of gastronomy. “I studied at San Francisco State University and moved to New York and went to Culinary Institute of America, where I was classically trained. I got a bachelor’s in restaurant management,” he shared. The reason that brought him to Dubai was an invitation of his chef friend, who used to work in Dubai for quite

some time until he enjoyed his stay pursuing his lovely restaurant in the New York of Asia. “I went to Dubai, and I have been here now for six years. My first project here was to open a Peruvian restaurant; I am extremely ambitious in all my endeavors; I always want to have a beautiful restaurant,” he said. One day, a businessman invited him to be the restaurant’s chef, and that was also the time he tried and decided to join Slab. “When I came in the restaurant, I changed all the concepts, and currently, we are on our third year and still thriving,” Chef Omar told Dubai Vibes Magazine. Chef Omar will always say he loves Dubai for three primary reasons: First, he loves the weather. Second, he described the city as the melting point of different nationalities worldwide. Lastly, the standard of living in Dubai is boundless. Starting Slab Restaurant According to Chef Omar, Slab started in 2018 as a sandwich laboratory. But he conceptualized and elevated it into a restaurant. His main goal as a chef is to offer his

customers a menu that tastes good and seasonal. He also added that when an individual is motivated and driven, a person can create a vast difference. And for him, seasonal cooking is the best thing to do. His philosophy excites him every day because, in all seasons, he can offer a different bounty. He also revealed what it is like for him when his food isn’t to his taste sometimes: “As a chef from a different culture, cooking food at the same quality is a struggle for him. Sometimes food quality has to be sacrificed to meet the same standards.” Chef’s wisdom “My plan after Dubai is to stay in Dubai and expand the brand business in fried chicken and sandwiches and of course to grow up Slab,” he said. The restaurant is still planning to expand the shop into significant cities in the region. Lastly, he advises his fellow dreamers to be patient and passionate about what they want to do. Developing oneself is part of the process because nothing happens overnight.

DJ Tom Higham Bringing his Turntablism and Passion to Dubai

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“The most satisfying thing for me is taking a crowd on a journey, and leading them through the music they have not heard and letting the energy of the music take them away, but you need the right crowd and setting to do this.”

“I

love my job; I love performing, playing music, feeling the energy of the crowd, curating playlists, and building my music collection.” Things will always get better when you hear the whimsical and fantastic music of DJ Tom Higham, a British decent Disc Jockey who has been in Dubai for several years to set up his career and passion in creating the best beats and nicks of all time.

studied Economics at a university in the United Kingdom. Although a diligent student, he still managed to balance his passion and academic life. “I studied Economics at university, but I bought my own set of decks while studying. I entered and won a few DJ competitions, and by the time I finished university, I was already playing in three cities across the north of the UK, so the transition to full-time DJ was the natural next step,” he said.

DJ Tom’s exceptional musical talent has been nurtured since he was young. His dream of becoming a music producer someday is currently in its development. And the city that never sleeps-Dubai is an excellent platform for him to build a network, process his passion and make a seamless dream that will never stop him from aspiring for greater heights.

First Downbeat

Aside from being one of the best performers in the town, DJ Tom

“My first residency came while I was at university, playing warm-up sets under a more experienced DJ headlining, and I learned a lot from these experiences. However, I am very fortunate to have bunches of career highlights from playing alongside Steve Angello at his Size Matters Festival, winning the Pukka Up DJ competition, and playing in the main room in Amnesia.”

According to DJ Tom, his first gig was a complete disaster. It is a 60th birthday celebration in Newcastle, and the equipment at the venue was faulty, and he was not briefed for the music. That was also when he realized that every tim he sets his hand on his deck, he should always be prepared.

Although a university graduate, DJ Tom chooses the best thing that will make him happy and fulfilled.

According to his friends, Tom never had a real job- as a kid, he worked a paper round, a summer as a bar back at a sports bar, and a two-week stint at a pub. He never had any office experience. How to Juggle? DJ Tom spent most of his time living in Dubai in the Marina area, close enough to walk into JBR, and enjoy the beachfront, just outside of all the traffic. He describes Dubai as a city with so much to offer. He is thankful for all the fantastic opportunities the city has given him and the connections he managed to build with people from all over the world. Moreover, not all the time, he is at its cloud nine. According to him, “Covid has been the biggest struggle I have faced - being forced to stop working for almost a year due to lockdown, restrictions, entertainment bans were unbelievably difficult.” “My next goal is to establish myself as a music producer, under a new alias, and then build a brand as an artist in a new musical direction. I have worked hard this season to catch up financially to where I was before Covid and after Ramadan. I will be reassessing my work-life balance to make more time for focusing on my productions in the studio,” he ended.

Aparna Bajpai CEO, Beauty Queen, and Grand Ambassadress turns advocate of women empowerment

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parna means goddess of strength, beauty, wealth, and health. This beautiful woman is a mother, wife, philanthropist, and businesswoman. Her skills and desires towards empowerment are her drives to achieve victory. An Indian national, Aparna Bajpai, created her destiny at a young age as she moved towards married life. Although committed to family life, the situation never stopped her from reaching the top of her dreams. This woman of beauty was hailed Mrs. India Globe-UAE and a Grand Ambassador of Mrs. India Globe. She is also the founder and Chief Executive Officer of BeingShe, which serves women worldwide, and empowers them on the road to greatness. Before coming to Dubai, Aparna worked in London and studied

master’s degree. After serving as a professional in London, she gave up her professional life to look after her daughter. “I was married quite early at the age of 19 and moved to London with my husband, and I took my MBA in marketing. I worked there for eight years. And when I had my daughter, I gave up my professional life and become a busy mom for her; nurturing her, giving her the right parenting,” she said. Being a mother gave her drive and passion towards creating a support system for women and helping the community get the right opportunity and exposure in the world. Forming BeingShe

She also added that her company have several supports, and it include; BeingShe Universe, one of the biggest fashion shows in Dubai. BeingShe Excellence, BeingShe Club Membership, and She Talks that aims for professional growth and international networking.

Aparna’s business ventures to female independence. Stating a business for her had never been easy; she needs to pass by the process of learning, meeting people, creating a good circle of networks, analyzing the market, and understanding the system on how it works.

Loving Dubai

“The vision- mission of BeingShe is to create many opportunities, growth, network, and transformation, to any and every woman of the community. We want to make the largest ecosystem for women’s support,” Aparna explained.

“Dubai is magical. It is a pleasure for me to be in the most beautiful city globally. It makes me feel home, safe and comfortable. Dubai is taking care of women,” she said.

Aparna’s magical life all started in Dubai. It gave her the enchantment to continue advocating for women’s power in the workplace, daily living, and married life regardless of status, faith, and race.

Moein Al Bastaki Emirati magician Moein Al Bastaki shows how charity and magic becomes an act of passion

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“Stay Positive and believe that magic is in the air.”

“W

hen I am out and somebody notices me and requests me to perform magic, I always fulfill. I love bringing joy to people through my magic,” Moein said.

journey.

A man that believes that magic is real creates his own destiny in the world of fantasy and dreams. Moein Al Bastaki a 40-year-old Emirati is a magician, illusionist, and mentalist. He is also working as the Chief Executive Officer of MOEIN Al Bastaki co.

An Arab Magician

His passion in magic created a lot of opportunities for him to perform for royal gatherings and special events. Although he did his Masters in Business, still, he loves working as a performer and an architect of his own

“I struggled with the conservative culture in the Arab world. I had internal battles of telling people about my art because some people may look at magic as taboo art,” he said.

Aside from being a magician in the stage, Moein also wants to share joy and excitement through his charitable programs related to people with special needs and cancer victims.

The art of magic was introduced to Moein when he was six. According to him, his grandfather showed him his first magic and that was the start if his journey and love of fantasy.

At first, Moein doubted to show his identity in media and introduce himself to the public, but one of his friends pushed him to have confidence and see the world in its magic. Surprisingly, the society enjoyed his art. “When I started performing in media I was in doubt of people’s reaction, horrified but I realized I got more support than people who were against me. Years later, I am still being appreciated for my art and the

entertainment and I bring to people’s lives when performing,” Moein shared. What keeps him going? “With Magic, I make sure to perform illusions that move people emotions in different ways; Joy, fear, excitement and anxiousness and leave them an experience that they could talk about for years to come and got them to have a memory for the best,” Moein said when asked on what he enjoyed about his current career. According to him, when he gets a chance of being in any event that can help individuals like charity related like people of special needs and cancer related, he will not hesitate to take chance and perform his best magic for audience. He added that keeping the mystery alive adds joy and excitement to people’s lives and that is the secret for a successful career. Moreover, in the near future, he aspires to be one of the most renowned names in the history of magic world.

Vijay Bhatia How to keep a positive frame of mind? “You should diversify. You can’t have one business. If something happens to it, you will be down and out.”

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“The journey of life is filled with ups and downs. Sometimes you have highs, and sometimes you have lows. But nothing is forever.”

ijay Bhatia is the Managing Director of Jules Tourism, a 52-year-old businessman, and an owner of five different companies in different parts of the globe. He is a Singaporean national but an Indian by race. Fresh out of high school in 1989, Vijay Bhatia said he started working at Emirates, the largest airline and one of two flag carriers of the United Arab Emirates. Being a man of business has been in his nature. Before having Jules Tourism, he had been a trader. According to him: “Jules Tourism belongs to my business partner from

Nigeria. What happened was, one day, we just met and talked. She told me that Jules Tourism Company was not doing well; that time, she also asked for a partnership.” “I have been in Dubai for almost 50 years. The motivation that keeps me going is when Dubai does something different. That is why, I admire the ruler of this city. In this emirate, every day is a different day, and every hour is a different hour,” he added. “It is constantly changing,” he said. Taking inspiration from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and the ruler of the Emirate of Dubai, every day is different for him, he explains. He also added that he looks at the ruler of Dubai as his guiding person and inspiration. Keeping a positive frame of mind

a volatile moment. But as a man of independence, he solidified his selftrust. Vijay said, “Do not put your eggs in one basket. You should diversify. If something happens to it, you will be down and out. We have diversified. So, we have this, and we have plans to open other businesses as well, like a cleaning company and a limo service company.” When asked about his plan, he said he did not know yet. But he is happy that he has already achieved his dreams even at a young age. Vijay said he had traveled a lot – 56 countries and 126 cities, to be exact. But there’s one place, he says, he keeps coming back to the Philippines. “I used to go there every year,” he said. “My second home will be the Philippines when I grow old. I am 52, so like when I am 60…65…70, I want to stay in Makati.

Vijay started his tourism business amid a pandemic, and many people are questioning him about his decision to open up an enterprise in

Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis “Contribution is an asset in our society; it makes us better human beings.”

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“Life is too short, and we need to spend it with our loved ones. I know people who need me, and I’m there for them, but I don’t want to talk about it since this matter is a matter of intimacy.”

assilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis is a political scientist who has practiced journalism for many years. Currently, he is working with various media outlets from print to radio in different parts of the globe. Greek descent Vassilios has been in media for a long period. And his journalism practice creates leeway for him to integrate his knowledge in politics and media. He was a Master of Arts in International Relations graduate and worked as a political journalist and analyst. Aside from being part of the estate of public figures, “One of the jobs I did in the past was the English teacher. Children are the future of this world, and any learning process should include Preparation: Arousing Interest; Presentation: Encountering the New Knowledge or Skills; Practice: Integrating the New Knowledge or

Skills; Performance: Applying the New Knowledge and Skills,” he said. Vassilios fondness for children also set him to be a philanthropist. In the United Arab Emirates, he worked as media coordinator at Small World, a charitable institution supporting children in need globally. The organization was under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Al Nahyan. He started his career in print media in one of the prominent media agencies in Dubai, covering significant events around the emirate. This man of talents currently works as an anchor of the weekend’s news report on radio Strimonika, a radio under the patronage of the Museum of Radio and Technology in Salonica, Greece. “During my presence in Dubai, I worked with many other magazines. Also, I collaborate with various websites worldwide; my interviews get published online. Recently, I had a great friend who offered me her magazine to conduct interviews with great personalities from around the world,” he remembered his Dubai journey. Pull out quote: “I would love to, but as a journalist, I travel to meet new people, to develop new projects, and engage in collaborations in different countries. I reckon a place to live in is Europe, close to most of the world.

Diversity fuels Passion Staying for almost ten years in Dubai gave him the feel of the multicultural setting of the city that imposes new norms and values of a traditional ethnic culture fused with modernity and innovation. “This has constructed their diasporic identity by using, reinventing, and reinterpreting their ethnic traditional cultures,” Vassilios added. According to him, he finds Dubai as a great city that creates an opportunity for everyone. It is good in every way, especially the diversity of culture, that makes him more passionate and satisfied with meeting new people and personalities. “Being a journalist is very exciting. I get to meet new people, get to know them better, and then interview. It’s a psychoanalysis process which I enjoy doing to my interviewees,” Vassilios shared. On the other hand, as a journalist, he also faces struggles in competition and the accuracy of resources that challenged him from time to time. Although his professional career has run smoothly despite controversies, the obstacles he faced in his personal life never hindered him from surviving in his work.

Fatima Zahra Alaoui What’s inside the entrepreneur’s mind?

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“If you are doing the right thing and you are focused on its phasing, definitely it will have a good result.”

ince childhood, this woman of courage has already developed her skills of being a risk-taker—an intelligent woman from Morocco and now a successful businesswoman in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

is the key to attaining quality work. She also had chances to work and be promoted to several positions. Since she was a top performer in the company, Fatima also got the job to become an assistant manager. Entrepreneur’s mind

Fatima Zhara Alaoui, the managing director of ITQAN Immigration Services, developed her courageous spirit from a young age. She went to Dubai at the age of 19 and brought goals to transcend her life and have a brighter future. “My first work in the United Arab Emirates was as a hotel receptionist. While working, I also intend to study at the same time,” she said. Fatima added that time management

According to Fatima, creating networks in Dubai is one of the most effective ways to grow holistically in professional life. She makes sure that she will always have a takeaway lesson when meeting people. One of the greatest lessons that professionals taught her was: “Always think of being an entrepreneur and never stay in your place as a normal employee. So, what I did was, I look for an extra job.” She opened her first shop in one of the hotels in Abu Dhabi, and that second was not easy for her, but her brave heart daringly remains her drive. The story did not stop at that moment; she also founded a company in Morocco, her home country. Transaction of goods from Morocco to the UAE got more manageable for her business.

Positivity and Wisdom The situation that triggered Fatima to set up an immigration center was based on her personal experience, when her application was unsuccessful when she applied for Canada. She also observed that her friends also had the same experiences as her. “I realized that there was something wrong; I need to do something about it,” she insisted. From that moment, she started to create ITQAN, an immigration agency that helps people achieve their dream of travel and migration. After contemplating all of her accomplishments, she offers this advice to dreamers: “If you are afraid to try, that means you have no knowledge, but if you try, at least you know how your success is progressing. Never give up.” “No one succeeds on Day 1, there will be a lot of trials, but they let us grow and learn more. These challenges will make us stronger. Every dreamer should fight, keep the positive spirit and be confident.”

“I also had the opportunity to work with Etihad Airways. I got my master’s degree in Business Management,” she said.

Saif Ali Khan The Differences of Dream and Passion

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“I believe in one thing which I would like to say loud: if you want to settle and make it big in Dubai, the secret is – first you give Dubai and then Dubai gives you back.”

“D

ubai has always proved itself to be a fighter who makes it to the top as its focus, as the country’s leadership believes that no problem cannot be solved, and there is nothing that can stop us if we are determined.” With Saif Ali Khan, a Canadian Managing Director of Supreme Events and Entertainment, nothing is impossible. A professional software engineer who now manages events and advertising. At an early age, Saif, a man of hard work, started to dream big by providing tuition fees for his schooling when he was in Grade 10. He considered that precious moment as the start of his career and luck.

Softnet in 1999 as Sales Executive selling accounting software. After some time, he excelled at his job and eventually became heading sales for a particular territory. After a few years, Saif decided to have a career change to discover more of his competencies and learn more about management and business.

you dream big, you can make it,” he proudly said.

“I changed my work line in 2003 when I joined Concept Group of Companies as Group General Manager. That was a turning point in my career, and I moved from technical and software to advertising & events, and ever since, there has been no looking back. I have been a part of various national and international level events, and each show for me a masterpiece to remember,” he said.

“Events is life for me, and I have tried to understand the field in its deep sense and divided all aspects. An event is not just an evening with flashy lights & good food; there are lot of factors that goes behind the planning of an event to ensure that you give the experience to the clients that they deserve,” he explained.

Blessed in Dubai He landed in Dubai in 1999 with a dream to provide a good life for his family. He started working with Focus

One of the highlights of his career is when he started his own business and never thought that it would be effective even during the pandemic. Dubai has always provided him with new opportunities as far as he is concerned. As a result, Dubai supported him in his dreams, and now, the company grows with the help of his loyal clients. “I call Dubai – my love… After blessings from God the Almighty and my parents, Dubai has given me everything, and I feel this is where I belong. This city is for dreamers; if

Aside from being a businessman, he also serves as a volunteer of the International Live Events AssociationILEA Middle East. It is an association for the events industry that caters to the region.

On the other hand, Saif’s success began with a humble beginning, he used to walk for 25 kms a day to save money on taxis during summer. He sacrificed his energy and time for the sake of creating his destiny. “I have had my fair share of struggles, and honestly, every day is a struggle, but it is up to us to accept it with positivity, overcome and keep moving. The key is to keep moving on,” he shared. Finally, his ultimate dream for his family and himself is to have a wellestablished business in Dubai and in Canada.

Nipendra Maharjan ‘Consistency and working hard is the key’

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“I usually don’t care about negative vibes and I am trying to keep myself positive as much as possible. Whenever I fail, I don’t give up. Rather, I push myself to work hard.”

ipendra believed that there are no shortcuts to success. If you are already growing, then help others grow with you.

friends here, and I heard many good things about the UAE. Moreover, Dubai was my dream city.

Nepalese Nipendra Maharjan is currently working as a Senior Quality Control Officer in a coffee roastery. This 29-year-old man started his journey in Nepal when he took the barista training. While working in his home country, he heard to someone that Dubai was conducting many competitions related to coffee. At that time, he was fascinated and passionate about creating latte art.

When Nipendra arrived in Dubai, he looked for a platform to help him push further his dreams. And one of the most remarkable people that invited and enabled him to join the throwdown competition in UAE was Kunga Ghale, his mentor and inspiration.

“One day, I saw a vacancy for baristas for different countries; eventually, I applied. Luckily, I got selected. I had a chance to choose a nation, and I decided to go with United Arab Emirates (UAE) since I have lot of

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He started competing in different throwdown contests and was even elevated to the national competition from that very moment. “I started my career as a junior barista here in UAE, and I pushed myself to become better,” he shared with Dubai Vibes Magazine. Nipendra’s confidence gave him the courage to develop every day. This self-assurance provided him a promotion in his company. He started as a junior, eventually transferred as senior to head trainer, and now brewing as the Senior Quality Control at Emirati Coffee Co. As a quality control in a coffee roaster, his main job is to look after the quality of the coffee and the service they provide to their customers. He

also offers quality training regarding coffee and creates solutions to the shop’s problems. Of all the achievements and fame, he gained in Dubai, Nipendra still faces adversity. According to him, living away from your home country is always heartbreaking. He said, “I’m working hard here in Dubai to make my family’s lives better.” He also added that he misses his country a lot. If he is given a chance in the future, he plans to share his experience and knowledge with his compatriots to uplift the coffee community of Nepal. And this plan already started when he created a latte art pattern of his national flag.

Bonn Lozano Learning through Action: Bonn Lozano, never limit oneself in working, Learn.

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“It is the only place (Dubai) I know that change is so fast in terms of growth, innovation, and development.”

ubai has been a hub for more than 200 nationalities who create their dreams and future. Many investors and people in business are opening their trades in the city because of diverse culture and financial growth. One of these business-minded individuals is of Filipino descent, Bonn Lozano, the owner of Shokudo Restaurant. He has been in Dubai for 15 years, continuously growing his business and helping people be part of his enterprise’s success. His first years Before coming to Dubai, Bonn worked temporarily in the Philippines at Eastwood Properties, Megaworld. Thenceforward, he decided to work on his destiny.

“After some time, I eventually ventured to my own business. I was into supplying and distributing LPG gas in the Philippines,” he shared. Bonn arrived in Dubai in 2006 and sooner worked as a sales and business developer in a prestigious company in the city. Upon excelling in his work, he becomes a safety officer and safety manager for DEWA. According to Bonn, while working from the company he was affiliated with, he never stops learning things from its operations to the management. He believed that his accumulated learnings could be part of his dream business. He added that “I learned a lot from my previous firm, and it includes the ways to run a company. Those observations help me so much to start up and open a business here in Dubai.”

up. We should never stop learning. These lessons are worth working for, because they can result in growth and progress,” he ended. In pursuit of his dreams, he patiently waited for the right time and reminisced to learn and turn his dreams into reality. Learning through action is observed to a man of great mindset like Bonn Lozano.

Never stop learning For Bonn, starting Shokudo Restaurant was not that easy; he faced a lot of challenges, and the struggles were always part of generating a new endeavor. Although skirmishes were on their way that time, he stayed positive. “I believe that we all have our ups and downs, and it is part of growing

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Pragna Vaya Event Management Guru Envisions Growth to Help Aged Expats

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“It is about how you plan your life, what you want and how you set your priorities.”

woman of valor like Pragna Vaya, the managing director of Orbit Events and Promotions, lived and established her life in the United Arab Emirates. Her entire career was planted and harvested in the beautiful emirates of Dubai. This foundation helped her to become successful and significant person today.

Pragna is an Indian by race but was born in Bahrain and raised in Dubai. She considered herself a lover of the city that never sleeps. Her hunger in arts keeps her moving and navigating to the cloud nine of her dreams. Her talents were nurtured by the education she had. Pragna was a graduate of Architecture and Interior design and a lover of paintings and drawings. Event Guru Spending all her life in the same career shaped her to be one of the best event organizers of this generation. She managed concerts, musical plays, press conferences, weddings, and even big birthday parties. “My passion in events was practicing, organizing musical plays, concert and community plays. We also organized Bollywood concerts with famous Bollywood performers,” she said. This visionary woman always believes in her philosophy: life is all about planning, setting, and stamina. According to her, every person has their own journey, but nothing comes so easy when they dream.

secret for a gratified life,” she attested. Benevolent heart Pragna has been in business events management and organizing for 20 years. And work taught him the importance of learning and practicing balance in everything. Having friends and family support has a massive factor for personal and professional growth. As a businesswoman, she always ensures that her work in Orbit Events and Promotions provides a 360 degrees solution: “Everything is important from the beginning, up to the end of the event,” she said. In addition, she also shared that setting a vision is essential because it mirrors the growth and prosperity in business and the workplace. Especially in Dubai, a city constantly innovating and developing. Everything is possible in Dubai; that is why she said, “I want to do something great in the future that can help the old-aged communities of expats who want to settle down in Dubai. Building a home for them will always be part of my dream.”

“A person shall set personal goals, and for me, I want to live a certain standard, and working for it is the

Satakshi Singh Passionate Entrepreneur making a name in Immigration Services business

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“When you want something, don’t overthink about it, just follow your instincts,” said this woman of passion.

woman of greatness creates her destiny by trusting herself and believing that there is nothing impossible to those who know how to wait and envision a progressive life. Satakshi is an Indian and have been in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, for 15 years. She studied in different schools around the Emirate and took-up Hospitality Management in Switzerland. This woman always believes that passion gives somebody a drive to push through in achieving dreams. As a millennial, her mindset makes her hungry for development and learning. And she found that creating her own business would help her not just to be a woman, but a woman who has a voice in society.

Building her empire Before building her own business in Dubai, Satakshi served as an employee of several companies in the emirate. Most of these industries are concerned with finance banking. Later on, these experiences aided her to manage a business of immigration. “I am passionate about it (immigration service). People at first did not believe in me, that I could create my own business because of my age, but I realized trusting myself was one of the most important ingredients in achieving ambitions,” she said. At 29, she built her empire full of confidence and exemplary purposes. Her core keeps her poignant in helping people migrate, enjoy and aim high. Satakshi’s motivation to build her empire reflected in her stay in Dubai for many years. According to her, although many people want to work in Dubai because of several opportunities. Still, there are some people in Dubai tend to migrate to other countries like the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

she said. Dubai is full of life For Satakshi, Dubai is already her home. She began visualizing her dreams one step at a time. It started when she was a student and continued to develop into the chief executive officer and founder of Annaka Group. The keenness and self-trust can undeniably make someone an unbothered queen or king. Sakshi believes that a dreamer must not give up. The key is determining whether someone will push for a goal and enjoy what is on the table.

“Make sure that if you want to migrate to another country, make sure that you think for it many times. Migration is a huge step, and it is not easy at all,”