Identity magazine December 2013

DECEMBER 2013 - 15 L.E. VOLUME 9, ISSUE 3 WWW.IDENTITY-MAG.COM

Christmas in style!Party

Destinations

Plus their matching outfits

Party Makeup

Part y Like An

EGYPTIAN Stupid Myths Relationship Problems Fashion faux-pas Awesome Inventions

&

which look will you choose?

THE PERKS OF BEING “Si El Sayed” Egyptian boyfriends trouble

christm as and ne w y e ar ... no - one does it bet ter

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so Many CHoiCes ... at ristor ante tusCany, JW ’s ste aKHouse, roy’s and tHe Pal atial sar aya Gallery.

Part y your Way into tHe neW ye ar at eGyPtian niGHts or Harry’s PuB uP till an ‘e arly Bird’ Bre aKfast at oMar’s Café. MarK tHe start of 2014 WitH an unforGet taBle festive CeleBr ation at Cairo’s HistoriCal MasterPieCe.

Edit or’s

F

IDENTITY’S EDITOR’S NOTE

Vivienne Westwood Gold Top available at Villa Baboushka

NOTE

or years now, Egyptians have been known for their sense of humour and sarcasm, and for making a joke out of the hardest situation. That is why we decided to dedicate this issue to Egypt.

This issue we combine everything related to Egypt and the Egyptians. Our team has interviewed some of the Egyptian talents who made it globally and represented our country perfectly. Some you might know and some you might not have heard of, but all of them have never stopped trying to make their country a better place. Alongside, we have combined some fun tips and jokes, fashion fauxpas for Egyptians, ancient Egyptian fashion, and much more.

December is also this magical month of the year where we get to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve so we also squeezed in some gift ideas and fashion tips for the festive season.

For our Fashion Editorial Shoot, we decided to go with something original, new, pure Egyptian yet still high fashion. I’d like to thank the whole team who helped in making this creative shoot and concept come to life.

Rola Kamel

Hope you enjoy your read as much as we enjoyed its making…

On The Cover Photographer: Hatem Saleh Model: Malak Mansour Fashion Styling: Sandra Rizk Make-up Artist: Sara Boulos Hair Dresser Mina from Mohamed Alsagheer Beauty Salons Cover Design: Mohamed Maher

Managing Editor Rola Kamel Editor-In-Chief Nawal Ismail Senior Editor Sandra Rizk Associate Editor Ahmed Hassan Clinical Psychologist Bonnie Settlage Relationship Expert Marwa Rakha Contributing Writers Nevine A. Abaza Opinion Column Mohamed Maher & Ahmed Hassan Photographer Hatem Saleh Model Malak Mansour Fashion Styling Sandra Rizk Make-up Artist: Sara Boulos Hair Dresser Mina from Mohamed Alsagheer Beauty Salons Graphic Designer Mohamed Maher Marketing and Advertising Manager Riham Yehia Marketing Coordinator Nourhan Yehia Website Company Afaq Designs Distribution Companies Sky Net & Al Ahram Identity Magazine Distributors Ashraf Fouad & Essam Ibrahim Identity Magazine was founded in 2005 by Rola Kamel to enhance every aspect of a woman’s life style helping our female readers to discover and improve their own identities.

Published by Beezarre Publishing Ltd. Themistokli Dervi, 6 Papyros Building, 4th Floor, Flat/Office D5 – P.c 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus.

The Subscription rate to Identity is 180 L.E. for one year (12 issues) by Al Ahram, Tel: 02-27703190 Contact us at: 26A Montazah St., Zamalek, Cairo-Egypt. Tel: 02-27361187 Mobile: 0122-9401071 email: sendus@identity-mag.com www.identity-mag.com

IdentityMagEg

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

@identity_mag

IdentityMagEg

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Identity Magazine

IDENTITY’S CONTENTS

32

Contents

3ALA RA2Y EL MASAL

December 2013

Identity’s Favourites 6 Check out what our team picked out for you this month!

Identity’s Damsel in Distress Read our monthly series of episodes written by an anonymous girl 10 An Opportunity arises Identity’s Marwa Answers Who is better to answer your love and relationship questions?

12 Egyptian Boyfriends = Trouble

27

ANCIENT EGYPT ON FASHION

Identity’s Show Buzz 14 Celebs Gone Bad Identity’s Fun Stuff We bring you tips and bits on how to, well, do anything!

15 Egyptians Abroad: Expectation vs. Reality 16 Egyptian Stupid Myths 17 How To Make Your Egyptian Mother Mad! 18 Egyptian Avwara 20 Egyptian Relationship Problems Identity’s Glamour Our fashion experts bring you the latest fashion and beauty updates, news and tips.

Beauty 22 Party Make-Up Inspiration Fashion Unconventional NYE Party destinations Christmas Gifts Phashion Influence Of Ancient Egypt On Fashion Egyptian Fashion Faux-Pas!

24 26 27 30

Identity’s High Fashion

32 3ala Ra2y el Masal

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

22

PARTY MAKE-UP INSPIRATION Identity’s Interviews 40 The Folklore Troupe: Louli Selim 42 Brand Architect: Amir Fayo Identity’s Piece of Writing

44 The Perks of Being ‘Si El Sayed’ 46 Awesome Egyptian Inventions 48 Stereotypically Egyptian Identity’s Reviews 50 Best of Cairo Identity’s Ay Kalam Sarcastic facts, Egyptian stories, jokes, and anything that will fix your mood!

56 Egypt Now & Then

PROUD SPONSOR OF

IDENTITY’S FAVOURITES El Fishawy

5INTERNET

POSTS THAT ARE SO NOT CUTE!

By: Mohamed Maher

@MoeMSamed

Because the sky isn’t cute.

Molokheya “Do you Love me?” “Blue” Because things like this aren’t cute.

Koshary Tahrir Tanoura

Identity’s

favourite THINGS WE

ABOUT EGYPT

Because fields aren’t cute.

No. That’s why he left your ass in a box in a empty field.

La Bodega

Because questions like this aren’t cute.

Because the ocean isn’t cute.

Sequoia

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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Renaissance caiRo MiRage city Hotel Ring Road, Mirage city P.o BoX 250, 11757, Heliopolis, cairo, egypt t: +202 24 06 33 33 f: +202 24 48 44 44 renaissancecairo.com

IDENTITY’S FAVOURITES

KISS & MAKEUP

I

Cafe Riche Mahmya

t seems that the more we grow By: Ahmed Hassan up, the more @MrTooFab complex life gets. Even though your life might be as simple as it gets, things have a way of being complicated and dramatic. The simpler solutions don’t seem to work anymore and people sometimes expect that dramatic outburst to understand or change. Why don’t we just get along? Put all our differences aside and act like adults; accepting one another. Are we really SO different that we can’t understand one another?

Identity’s

Pub 28

favourite THINGS WE

ABOUT EGYPT El Brince

Shatafa Luxor

Wekalet ElBalah

El Hussein

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

All this brought me to different questions, why do people fear change? Being different is good, acting differently is also good. No need to stick to old and mediocre ways if the wind of change is blowing. Whatever happened to just ‘kiss & makeup’? It used to work so well for us!

Are we really so selfish that we can’t see beyond what people want and need?

And the most baffling question of all, why can’t we appreciate those who do well?

A little appreciation goes a long way in building a person’s motivation, self worth and over all positivity. I guess what I want to say is, always give credit where it’s due and never belittle someone for that might be done to you.

IDENTITY’S DAMSEL IN DISTRESS MY NAME IS RONZIE. I’M AN ORDINARY EGYPTIAN GIRL IN MY TWENTIES, BUT MY LIFE IS FAR FROM ORDINARY. I’M JUST TRYING TO BE HAPPY, BUT ALL I EVER DO IS GET INTO MORE AND MORE TROUBLE. ALL I EVER WANTED WAS TO LIVE A HAPPY NORMAL LIFE, WORK A DECENT JOB, AND MEET MY KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR, AND WHAT I GOT WAS A REAL LIFE DRAMA MOVIE. MY LIFE IS A SERIES OF ADVENTURES THAT I WILL SHARE WITH YOU...

A

s we wrapped up the photo shoot I could see a very handsome guy walk in, I melted instantly. He turned out to be Moe’s best friend, Joey, they were like brothers. Knowing that I can’t resist blue eyes, plus the fact that Joey was flirty and very charming, I knew no good would come from knowing him. I tried to avoid him but was cornered into joining him and Moe for lunch. On our way home Moe decided to rest his hand on my thigh as he said with a smile “You did a really good job today, you’re a natural” I smiled and thanked him, but his hands just stayed where they are till we reached my house.

I spent the night thinking about Moe’s move. I was confused and just couldn’t decide if he was attempting to flirt with me, or if he was just encouraging me after my first modeling shoot and he was too tired to think of removing his hand after this very long day. One thing I was sure of, I wasn’t repelled by his touch, there was nothing dirty about it, he wasn’t trying to take advantage of me in any way. It was more sweet than anything. Maybe if he had done the pep talk then removed his hand it wouldn’t have been that big a deal, maybe I wouldn’t have stayed up all night thinking about what it meant.

Eventually, somehow, I managed to sleep.

my best friends all complaining that they haven’t seen me for a while, which I couldn’t deny, it has been quite sometime. I told them about the shoot and they all got so psyched about it, and decided we should go out to celebrate. I was a little bothered that I didn’t get to have my peaceful day at

that i could hear the beeps from their messages as we talked, they are clearly very excited. I asked him what he thought of them, and he told me that I should read the email again if it wasn’t clear. I giggled but asked him to tell me his opinion again, I wanted to hear it, and know more. He told me that I looked very attractive, sexy, and in some photos seductive even. He kept on going with the positive comments, but wasn’t flirting at all, he was plain old Moe, the friend. I was happy with his comments, flattered, but found it very strange that he didn’t even unintentionally flirt, it bothered me a little. It’s Episode 8 not that I wanted him to hook up with me or anything, I just wanted to feel that I am that much attractive for him that I couldn’t stop himself from flirting a little with me. Deep down inside me I concluded that the flirting that happened yesterday was all just to get me confident for the shoot. I asked him about the news, and he asked me “Can I see you tonight?” I told him that I had already planned for a night out with my friends. “I wanted to tell you in person, but there goes... I showed your pictures to a very important client, Episode 9 and they want you to be one of the main models in home, but chatting with them their shoot. It’s a huge campaign, made me miss them alot, so I the kind that professional models decided to go. would viciously fight over to win”.

“No way! That is... wow! I don’t As I thought about what to wear, know! I thought its a one time I could hear that I got an email. It thing” I replied him. “I know, it’s was from Moe, the pictures! How not your career path, or atleast nice and thoughtful of him to send not one that you thought of. them so soon I thought to myself But why not? Think about it. It’s as I smiled reading “You look hot a good opportunity, and we’d ;) call me when you see this, I be traveling for the shoot, and have some news”. I sent some I know how much you love to pictures to the girls, and called travel”. I thought to myself that Moe instantly, I was very excited. Moe knew me so well, as soon as Moe didn’t even say hello, he just he mentioned the traveling part I blurted out “did you like them?” as got tempted. It would take some soon as he picked up the call. I told convincing with my parents, but them that I loved them, and that I it could be a lifetime experience just sent a few to my friends, and that I never forget.

“An Opportunity arises”

THE DIARY OF A DAMSEL IN DISTRESS

It was Friday, I woke up late. I was slightly exhausted from the day before, but I had a smile on my face thinking about the shoot, I can’t wait to see the pictures.

My parents were traveling, so the house was quite. As i sipped on my morning coffee I decided that I will spend the day at home relaxing, enjoying the peace and quite. I reached for my phone, and found many notifications. There were endless Whatsapp messages from

DISCLAIMER: ALL CHARACTERS IN THIS PAGE ARE FICTITIOUS CHARACTERS, BASED ON IMAGINED “WHAT IF...”

SCENARIOS, BUT CAN OCCASIONALLY BE INSPIRED FROM REAL LIFE STORIES SEEN OR HEARD.

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

IDENTITY MARWA ANSWERS

Egyptian Boyfriends

= TROUBLE!

Dear Marwa,

I’m a 24 year old Egyptian girl and I’m already sick of dating Egyptian men.

My first boyfriend was a big flirt who tried to pick up foreigner girls every time he travels with his friends which I considered cheating and was a big turn off.

Another one was so controlling that he wanted me to do anything he wants without even discussing it first. He also considered me as his own property, and not in a cute way. My third boyfriend was too conservative that he wanted me to change everything about me, from the way I dress to the people I talk to.

I was never attracted to foreigners but at the same time I keep finding it hard to be with Egyptians. Are all Egyptian guys the same? Should I give up on finding a good one? Or should I find out a way to deal with them and maybe try to change them?

By: Marwa Rakha Relationship Expert

“The way boys are brought up in our culture neither promotes independence nor security.”

Dear Fatma,

Fatma.

I have good news and bad news for you; the good news is that you are still young and you have a lot of opportunities to meet your match. The bad news is that many of the guys you will meet are victims of typical Egyptian households one way or the other. The way boys are brought up in our culture neither promotes independence nor security. Most of the problems you faced in your previous relationships are the outcome of such upbringing; your first boyfriend was an insecure little boy who needed constant reassurance that he is an attractive man. He also has no respect for women in general and pursues them in a hunter-prey manner. Your second boyfriend was also insecure and depended

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

on your blind obedience to reassure his masculinity. Your third boyfriend also is insecure about his ability to satisfy you and keep you in his life without imprisoning you behind social traditions.

They were all scared!

The three of them needed to damage your self-esteem to be able to control you!

They all thought they needed to control you to keep you in the relationship.

Egyptian or not, when you meet a man, get to know him first as a person! Get to know his thoughts, beliefs, and opinions by interacting with him in his daily life.

Meet his friends, talk about work, and exchange stories and anecdotes about childhood and parents.

Before you invest time and emotions in a relationship invest time and effort in a pure sincere friendship with that person – a friendship that has the potential to grow into a steady relationship or would remain a great reliable friendship. Only then, you will be able to save yourself from more frustration and heartache. This way, you will also give him the chance to get to know what kind of person you are; he will know that you do not need to be leashed to a man to behave well and that you willingly and consciously chose to be in a relationship with him.

In any relationship there will always be issues to work out and creases to smoothen but do not waste your time on a man whose actions and words are not aligned with your needs. No one changes; a flirt is always a flirt, a control-freak is always a control-freak, and a conservative will always be a conservative. Your three heartbreaks could have been easily avoided if you took your time getting to know each one of them as a friend first. Give them time, dear Fatma!

IDENTITY’S SHOW BUZZ

CELEBS GONE BAD

Santa will be very disappointed By: Ahmed Hassan

KIM KARDASHIAN: She might have had it all wrong (or right) with the sex video scandal and everything but Kim K is now a mother and engaged to superstar Kanye West with a 15 carat diamond ring. Not too shabby eh?

MILEY CYRUS: Twerked, made a huge scene at the VMA’s and smoked weed on stage while receiving her music video of the year award. She ended up with a chart topping album, a new image and a whole new range of fans who support her! Who needs Santa when you got your publicist?

TAYLOR SWIFT: That girl goes through men as much as Meryl Streep gets nominated for an Oscar! Her reputation as a ‘bad girl’ didn’t really bring her down. If anything, her career is now going better than ever with numerous awards under her belt.

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

PARIS HILTON: Same goes for the Hilton princess, after the sex videos and the over exposure of her private parts, she managed to build an empire from music to fashion. Paris is her very own Santa!

IDENTITY’S FUN STUFF

Expectation

Expectation

GIRLS! GIRLS EVERYWHERE!

Party every night!

Reality

Taking selfies in the hotel bathroom

Expectation

I will bust some awesome dance moves!

Reality

EGYPTIANS ABROAD Expectation VS REALITY

End up dancing with the dudes

Expectation

By: Ahmed Hassan

Reality Dance awkwardly & uncomfortably all night

Reality

I will play in the snow all the time!

Stick to the heater all trip

Expectation Reality You end up looking like this when making a conversation

I won’t drink!

Maleesh feeh!

Reality Expectation

Eshta ya3ny, ana el English beta3y helw

Order one Red Bull that turns out mixed with vodka & act like a drunk all night IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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IDENTITY’S FUN STUFF

EGYPTIAN STUPID MYTHS By: Sandra Rizk

Our parents convincing us that when we lose a tooth (or a cow tooth), the sun replaces it with a bride’s tooth. Does that make any sense? No? Thought so. “Ya shams ya shamoosa, khodi sennet el gamousa w haty sennet el 3aroosa.”

If you don’t brush your teeth before you sleep, “El shamama” will come smell you while you sleep. What the fuck is a shamama? And why should I be afraid if it’s just going to smell me?

Eating cucumber will make your eyes turn green while eating tomatoes will make your cheeks turn pink. Hmmm believable.

Screaming in the bathroom will wake up the devil.

Makes a little bit of sense since the bathroom is the devil’s home right? Pffff.

When a dog barks, it means he saw a ghost.

If you don’t finish your meal, your leftovers will haunt you in your sleep.

Don’t play with scissors because you will probably be cutting through the angels around you... Like, seriously?

To avoid catching a cold, try to cover your neck area. As if you only catch cold from that area.

Always enter a household with your right foot, just to give the house and the people living there some luck, you know.

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If you had a nightmare where you were naked, it probably means that you were cold.

1

Tell her that your friend’s mom’s molokheya is much better than hers.

6

BREAK “EL TA2M EL SEENI”! KOLO ELA EL TA2M EL SEENI!

8

Don’t answer her calls just because you know how loud she will be.

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IDENTITY’S FUN STUFF

5 4

Claim that the “shebsheb” she threw at you a second ago didn’t hurt.

3

Even worse, ask her who Abdelhalim is.

Tell her that you hate all Abdelhalim’s songs.

7

Bring home a hamster.

(ENTA GAYEBLY FAR FIL BEIT??)

MAD! 10

By: Sandra Rizk

LEAVE THE LIGHTS OR AC ON, EVEN JUST TO GO TO THE KITCHEN.

When you go home, take off your shoes in the middle of the living room. Chances are, they will be thrown at you in less than a second.

9

HOW TO MAKE YOUR

EGYPTIAN MOTHER

11

Tell her your phone died and you forgot to call her from a friend’s phone.

12

13

Wait until she has had a big week and then... all you need to do is call Mama’s name repeatedly... you know: “Mama, Mama, Mama, Mama, Mama, Mama, Mama” Just keep doing it - it’s guaranteed to work... of course, the alternative to this is to extend the word “mama”, changing pitch and tone throughout: aaaaaaaaAA

MMMa “MaaaaaaMMM aaaaa” MMMMmmaaa Wear white in winter or black in summer.

Yallahwee moseeba!

Forgetting a family gathering or event. (Tab3an, manta kol hammak as7abak ya anany!)

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ORDER FOOD WHEN SHE SPENT THE WHOLE DAY COOKING.

15

Don’t clean your room or closet, leave your clothes on the floor, and head out. You will be punished by being grounded until you clean your room, or she will leave it as messy as it is until you clean it up.

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013 DECEMBER 2013 IDENTITY

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EGYPTIAN IDENTITY’S FUN STUFF

AVWARA ‫ووره‬

FACEBOOK AVWARA

‫ا‬ ‫ف‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬ ‫و‬

Let’s get something clear. Facebook is not your diary and it is not a place to leave your thoughts. You have a friends list that you should respect; I don’t want to hear about how your day went, or how much you’re disappointed in the close people around you, or how you’re sick of other people writing stupid statuses.

I do not care about the way you feel towards your boyfriend or your cat, or how exhausted you are from work, or how you’re sick of Cairo’s nightlife and Egyptians, or how you think you’re too talented to be living in Egypt. I seriously don’t care! If I want to know, I’ll call you and ask you. You have 2000 + Facebook friends, which means that only 100 of them are truly your friends, which also means that 1900 people don’t give a shit about your life. So please some mercy!

NIGHTLIFE AVWARA You can always go out and have fun without actually getting any attention you know? You don’t have to jump around the CairoZoom Photographer so he could notice you and take a picture of you. You don’t have to scream every time you hear a song that you like. You don’t have to wear cropped tops and show your stomach, trust me. You don’t have to dance on a table or on the bar. You don’t have to keep saying how drunk you are, we can all see that. You don’t have to show off to your friend that you’re “mesaytar” and know the club bouncer (We all know that you spent half your life at the club’s door trying to get in so you probably know him, yeah).

So enough with all the attention seeking and just focus on enjoying your night.

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

By: Sandra Rizk

POLITICS AVWARA We get it. You love Egypt.

You were born here. You want what’s best for this country. SO DO WE!!! Your Tahrir pictures holding the Egyptian flag don’t mean that you love this country more than other people. Stop fighting with everyone around you just because you think they are “felool”, “Sisi lovers”, “ikhwan”, or supporting anything you don’t support. They are all Egyptians with different beliefs, deal with it!

INSTAGRAM AVWARA

BBM AVWARA

We all love instagram because its filters make any picture look much better. That does NOT mean you are a model and it definitely doesn’t make it okay to take a “selfie” picture every single day. Taking a selfie only means one thing; “Wow I look so pretty today, it’s not fair that only my friends get to see how amazing I look”. Oh, and it’s okay to take a shot of your meal if it looks delicious, but you don’t have to take a picture of every meal, every day, everywhere.

Pins everywhere!!! Havent you always been an iphone user? Didn’t you used to make fun of Blackberry and the people still using it? Didn’t you used to own blackberry and changed it because you were so sick of BBM and people texting you every second? Don’t you already have Whatsapp application that can do exactly what BBM does? Okay, fine. You prefer BBM so that you chose to add whoever you want on your list? Then why the hell are you posting your pin on all your social networks for everyone to see???!!!

FITNESS AVWARA You started working out? Cool. You joined a training program? Good for you. That doesn’t make you a fitness specialist who can post everyday workout tips and inspirational quotes.

Working out is good for your health, we get it and we are happy for you, but stop posting pictures every day before your work out, while you work out, and after your work out. You’re not doing this for us, are you?

CAIROFASHIONISTAS ACCOUNTS AVWARA: You probably have 16 fashionistas account following you on Instagram now, asking you to re-post every picture you post on your private account. What’s up with that? I like the idea, but one account is more than enough. It makes you think twice before posting a picture of yourself. Not to mention how most of them just re-post pictures of girls wearing… well, just clothes.

These are not fashionistas, you do not have a good sense of fashion, and please, oh, please enough with all the annoying hash tags.

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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IDENTITY’S RELATIONSHIP TIPS

EGYPTIAN PrOB

For him

12 3 4 5 She will do anything possible to prove she’s right.

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

When you meet a girl, before allowing yourself to even think about her, ask her where she lives, where all her family members live, and check her ID to make sure. If you live in Heliopolis while she lives in 6 October, this relationship is dead before it even starts.

Also, ask her about her parents and whether they are conservative or open minded so that you understand if she has a curfew or not. If she does, you will spend your next couple of months or even years, leaving places before the night even starts. In this case, marriage for you will be just to get her to go out with you and stay up late.

When dating an Egyptian girl, expect that a couple of months later the marriage subject will come up one way or another. “Ana papi 3eref eni mesa7bak w mesh mwafe2, either ne2ra fat7a w yeb2a fee 7aga official aw lazem neseeb ba3d” I promise you her dad knows nothing about you, and even if he does, she can still date you without him knowing, matmaseleesh!

This case doesn’t refer to all Egyptian girls, but most of them NEVER admit anything about their past. If she dated 7 guys before you, she will tell you that she only dated 2, and that they were both very serious relationships. If she made out with all 7 guys, she will tell you that her first kiss was with you. But since we live in a tiny society, you’re bound to find out the truth sooner or later, so it’s okay to ask around about the girl before you get involved.

RELATIONSHIP LEMS If the guy you’re about to date has a sister or female friends, do a little stalking and get to know how these girls around him are. If they are not similar to you, he will probably try to change you into being like them since they are the girls he grew up with.

Even if you’re chubby and not so pretty, he will still ask you to wear conservative clothes, and wear a one piece bathing suit or not wear swimming suits at all. As if all men around you will leave all pretty girls out there and check you out.

When dating an Egyptian man, chances are he will try to prove his manhood to you and to the people around you every day. Don’t do this don’t do that, don’t speak to boys, don’t wear this skirt, don’t go out without him, etc.

Even if none of them make sense to both of you, he will still expect you to agree with him just to prove he has the upper hand in the relationship. To avoid all this, make yourself pretty clear from the start and let him know that you are not willing to change your life for anyone.

This one applies to all Egyptian guys.

When you first meet him, he will try so hard to prove to you how cool he used to be. “You see that girl over there? Yeah, we made out 2 years ago and she was all over me for months.” “You should have seen my body 2 years ago before I stopped working out, kont forma!” Why is it always 2 years before you met him?

Because it’s not true. That’s just their way of impressing you.

He will do anything possible to prove he’s right.

For her

1 2 3 45

By: Sandra Rizk

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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PARTY MAKE-UP INSPIRATION

IDENTITY’S BEAUTY TIPS

Which look will you choose?

By: Mohamed Maher

Max Factor Colour Expert Eye Liner

Revlon Matte Lipstick Pink Pout

Anna Sui Liquid Eyeliner

Statement Liner at Anna Sui

Dior Rosy Nude

Regal Beauty at Dolce & Gabbana

Pink Pout at Diane von Furstenberg

Nars Blush In Gaiety

Rosy Smoky Eye at Gucci

Flushed Cheeks at Felder Felder

Standout Lip at Fendi

Make Up For Ever Flash Color Stick in Turquoise

Wink Eye Pencil Inky Six

Inky Eyes at Jason Wu 24

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

17 Lasting Fix Lipstick in New Black

Marc Jacobs Lacquer Lip Vinyl

Vinyl Red Lip at Marc

by Marc Jacobs

Swarovski Elements Crystal Flat Backs Embellished Eyes at Thakoon

Sephora Collection The Shape Shifter

IDENTITY’S FASHION

Unconventional NYE ASOS Ring Pack

Deepa Gurnani Headband NARS Satin Lipstick

Marc By Marc Jacobs Earrings

Jil Sander Sweater Zara Wellies

Asos Over The Knee Socks

Pull & Bear Links Scarf

BEACH PARTY: Welcome a new year with a refreshing sea breeze and a big warming bonfire!

Theory Leather Shorts By Malene Birger Pants

Magaschoni Scarf

Richard Nicoll Bomber Jacket

BOAT PARTY: All aboard to welcome a new year in a new way!

Fireworks will add extra flair to a magical celebration.

Rimmel London Lipstick

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

H&M Sweatshirt Zara Wallet Pull & Bear Navy Wedges

Vince Camuto Glove

Party destinations

& THEIR MATCHING OUTFITS! By: Ahmed Hassan

By Malene Birger Cape Coat

J.Crew Necklace

Givenchy Sandals

Eugenia Kim Turban

J.Hadley Bracelet

OUTDOOR PARTY:

Whether your own garden or roof, turn it into a party space ‘à la SATC’ style. Release balloons or sky lanterns and make a wish!

Hermes Bracelet

TopShop Floral Dress Givenchy Print Clutch

Falke Knee Socks

TopShop Headband TopShop PJ Top TopShop PJ Shorts Sir Williams Home Ballerina

SLEEPOVER PARTY: Feel years younger as you celebrate yet another new year and throw a sleepover party! Chocolates, popcorn, movies, fun games and lots-o-gossip!

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IDENTITY’S CHRISTMAS PICKS

CHRISTMAS Gifts The Best for the Best!

By: Ahmed Hassan

For the Wander Lusted the

Canon GX1 is

perfect to capture moments around the world in both still and video

Book Worms will enjoy the #1 rated novel Real by Katy Evans

Cool Kids need cool games and so the

Nintendo 2DS is the perfect gift for children of all ages

Every Fashionista will greatly appreciate an Albertus

Swanepoel faux fur scarf this season

Apple Fans will be thrilled with the latest addition of an iPad Air to their collection

When it comes to Fitness Fanatics the

Nike+FuelBand is the ideal gift to keep track of fitness levels

The TechSavvy will find Sony

Business minded people will enjoy the Jot Script stylus pen for easier writing on tablets 28

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Smartwatch 2 an interesting addition to their gadgets

The PlayStation 4 is here and all Gamers want it badly! Will Santa grant their wish?

IDENTITY’S FASHION INSPIRATION

Phashion

INFLUENCE OF ANCIENT EGYPT ON FASHION By: Ahmed Hassan

EGYPTIAN PHARAOHS CONTRIBUTED TO THE ADVANCEMENT OF MANY FIELDS AND ONE OF THEM IS DEFINITELY FASHION! DRAPES, PLEATS, GOLD, HEAD PIECES AND ROCKING THE TIMELESS WHITE COLOUR… YOU NAME IT, THEY’VE DONE IT! LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT MODERN ITEMS INSPIRED BY OUR ANCESTORS.

Ark Gold Necklace

Alexander Wang Top

Sophia Kokosalaki Dress

Sohpie Hulme Belt

Bottega Veneta Sandels

Roberto Cavalli Bracelet

Rick Owens Skirt

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IDENTITY’S FASHION INSPIRATION

Michael Kors Dress

Aquazzura Sandals Sass & Bide Dress

Rosantica Necklace

Matthew Williamson Dress

Jonathan Simkhai top

Jonathan Simkhai Skirt

Lanvin Top

Donna Karan Dress Dior 2004 Runway Gold & Ruby Necklace

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Iam By Ileana Makri Bracelet

Temperley London Skirt

Helmut Lang Skirt

Les Chiffoniers Top

Guerlain Kohl

M.C.L. By Matthew Campbell Laurenza Bangel

Sparkling Sage Necklace Alexander McQueen Gold Dress

House of Harlow 1960 Earrings

Linda Farrow Sunglasses

Iam By Ileana Makri Necklace

Sharon Wauchob Skirt

Chloe Bracelet

Helmut Lang Top

Musa Flip-flops

Kenneth Jay Lane Necklace Lisa Blue

Maria Black Arm Cuff IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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IDENTITY’S FASHION FAUX-PAS Tracksuits: I blame Juicy Couture for perfectly demonstrating why the velour tracksuit deserves a place on the list.

Loungewear at its very worst, this look should only be worn at home.

Leggings as pants: It really irks me when I see girls running around with leggings and a t-shirt that leaves their butt hanging out. And yes, your butt IS hanging out. Leggings are only slightly thicker than opaque tights. You wouldn’t wear tights alone, would you? Didn’t think so.

EGYPTIAN

Fashion

FAUX-PAS!

By: Sandra Rizk

Brands Mania: I pretty much believe that we are the most people in the world who wear brand name designers just to show off, not because we actually like their clothes.

Apart from that, wearing a head to toe brands outfit is an absolute faux-pas!

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Matchy matchy: Matching your shoe color, with your bag and belt is so 1997.

It’s a big NO-NO!

Louis Vuitton bags: They are not the only bags in the world, you know that, right?

Hats on Hijab: This should be considered as the ultimate fashion sin. Aside the fact that hats are old news; they shouldn’t be worn over hijab! If you’ve chosen to be veiled, try to deal with the fact that there are things you are not allowed to do anymore. It’s like wearing a bikini over a long sleeve top and leggings.

Shorts over tights: Stockings are super-cute when paired with a dress, but we can’t say the same for shorts. It was trending for a while, but now it’s time to let go of this ugly trend!

Fake glasses: If you don’t need glasses, don’t wear them.

It’s as simple as that.

Too much makeup: While a complete lack of makeup can make it seem as if you don’t care, too much isn’t a good idea either. It’s about capturing the essence of classic over sexy.

The invisible bra strap: Why? Just… WHY? Invest in a racer back bra and a strapless one to subtly support your twins without have those plastic invisible straps peeking out from your top or dress.

And FIY, we all see them!

Studs & spikes: It’s as if this trend was specially made for Egyptians. Apparently, Egyptian girls has always secretly wanted to be that bad chic wearing this big leather jacket with studs and spikes all over it. Cool.

Now get over this idea or image you have in mind and throw all your studded stuff away! It was a cool trend that we all enjoyed for a while, now it’s over.

Too much skin: Follow the basic rule of exposing one area at a time. So if you’re showing a lot of leg, put away the cleavage. If you’re wearing a strapless dress, slightly lower the hem past peek-a-boo status.

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‫على‬

‫ر�أى‬

IDENTITY’S HIGH FASHION

‫املثل‬ Photographer Hatem Saleh Model Malak Mansour Fashion Styling Sandra Rizk Assisted by Mohamed Maher Make-up Artist Sara Boulos Hair Dresser Mina from Mohamed Alsagheer Beauty Salons Special Thanks to Boutique 51 & Villa Baboushka

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Khoon Hooi Black Gown available at Villa Baboushka Kreisi Couture Head Band & St. Erasmus Gold Statement Necklace available at Boutique 51

‫من بره‬

‫هال‬ ‫هال‬ ‫ومن جوه‬

‫يعلم اهلل‬ IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013 DECEMBER 2013 IDENTITY

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‫مرايه‬ ‫وفى القفا‬ ‫�ساليه‬

‫فى الو�ش‬

‫‪IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013‬‬

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Laltra Moda White Dress & Deepa Gurnani Spiked Gold Necklace available at Villa Baboushka Nanni Silver Bracelets, Rafe Gold Clutch, Rafe Silver Clutch & Nian Leather Top available at Boutique 51 Forever 21 Spiked Bomber Jacket & Gold Cross Cuff

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Khoon Hooi Silver Cutout Dress available at Villa Baboushka Silver Necklace & Bracelet available at Boutique 51

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

‫�إي�ش تعمل‬ ‫امل�شطة‬ ‫يف الو�ش‬ ‫العكر‬

‫عني‬ ‫احل�سود‬ ‫فيها عود‬

Forever 21 Black Lace Cropped Top Stradivarius High Waist Skirt

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‫اخلزانه‬ ‫وال جوازة‬

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Stradivarius White Lace Cropped Top White HighLow Skirt by Sandra Rizk Paul Smith Brown Leather Boots available at Boutique 51

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013 DECEMBER 2013 IDENTITY

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IDENTITY’S INTERVIEW

THE FOLKLORIC ART & CULTURE The AUC Folklore Troupe Interviewed by: Sandra Rizk FOR CENTURIES, EGYPT HAS BEEN KNOWN FOR ITS UNIQUE DANCE STYLES FROM EACH REGION; FROM THE SAIDI DANCE FROM UPPER EGYPT, EL-HAGGALA FROM MARSA MATROUH, TO FELLAHY DANCE FROM THE COUNTRY SIDE AND MANY MORE. THE AUC FOLKLORE TROUPE HAS BEEN REGULARLY REPRESENTING EGYPT AND AUC IN INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVALS TAKING PLACE ALL AROUND THE GLOBE. WE COULDN’T BE MORE PROUD OF THESE YOUNG TALENTED EGYPTIAN STUDENTS FOR GIVING EGYPT THE IMAGE IT DESERVES. TODAY, WE GLADLY MEET WITH ONE OF THE STUDENTS, LOULY SELIM, WHO WAS ONCE IN CHARGE OF THE TROUPE FOR TWO YEARS.

F

irst, start by telling us all about the AUC Folklore dance Troupe…

AUC Folklore Troupe was first established back in 1986, the idea behind the creation of a folkloric dance group was to make sure students inside an American cultured university were exposed to different elements of their own culture.

At first AUC addressed Mahmoud Reda; Founder of the renowned Reda Troupe, to head the team and manage it. However, due to the busy schedule of Mr. Reda, he delegated the task to one of his troupe’s members. Since then the responsibility of managing/ choreographing for the AUC Folklore Troupe was passed from one Reda Troupe alumni to the next with an exception of two trainers that handled the team between 2003 and 2004 from other currently active cultural dance groups in the country.

Unlike professional dance groups where a set number of dancers are needed to maintain the group, being a student based group there is no such rule of member count. Whatever number of students who enrol into the group in addition to the already existing ones it makes up the number of dancers inside the group.

Good job guys! Tell us about your experience as the AUC Folklore Troupe leader for 2 years? Can

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you give us an image of what it was like dancing with the troupe?

There is no such thing as being a group leader because the group is always managed by the choreographer that the university hires. However, there is what we call the popular seniority system, meaning that the older you are in the group, the more solos you dance and the more responsibility you take such as teaching the new students old dances, keeping track of rehearsal attendance and so forth. I was lucky enough to handle such responsibility for 2 years.

Dancing with the AUC Folklore Troupe was the highlight of my college years hands down, it not only taught me the importance of working together as a team so that we may all shine together but it also taught me discipline, respect and professionalism.

Apart from the functional benefits of being in the team, on an emotional level I also gained a lot. I made lots of friends who I now consider family, also seeing and interacting with new younger students every year was an experience on its own.

What are some of the group dynamics – who does the choreography, who just dances, etc?

Whichever manager the university hires to manage the team is responsible of creating dances for the team. However, most of the team’s dances are

a replica of the old original Reda Troupe dances.

Since, Reda Troupe is considered the pioneer in folkloric dances, AUC Folklore Troupe took them as a benchmark and took the challenge on and were always assisted in executing that by our managers since they were usually Reda Troupe Alumni.

In addition to the Reda Troupe dances that the group recreates, AUC Folklore Troupe also has their own original dances as well. These dances are usually the creation of the manager on board at the time as well as creations by the students themselves (mostly older team members who have the capability to choreograph).

Interesting… What kind of places/ countries/ competitions do you perform at?

AUC Folklore Troupe travels on annual basis to represent Egypt in international folkloric festivals as well as competitions around the world, we’ve been to several countries such as Germany, Spain, France, Poland, Turkey, Italy, Croatia and more.

dance styles needs a dancer to represent a certain character/personality on stage; most other dancers from other groups abroad don’t have that variety that our Egyptian background gives us.

What are your dreams and aspirations?

Being a student based group owned by the university, we can’t really go far above that under the name of AUC Folklore Troupe. However, the team aspires to be the best it can be from generation to generation showing artistic cultural performances at a professional level delivered by students.

What do you think is the most distinctive feature of your team?

We are a family and so we work as a family which brings out the best results. There is no competitiveness or jealousy within the team. We all work to look good together and encourage the younger members to excel and be the best till they take the place of the older ones when they graduate.

All photographs are courtesy of Randa M. Ali

As for our performances in Egypt, we give an annual performance inside AUC to share with fellow students the dances/material we have as well as give the members a chance to perform in front of their friends and family.

And what’s your favourite thing about folklore?

To put it plainly, it’s OURS. We are doing something that is ours from our own culture and surrounding.

That’s very inspirational. As a crew, where do you get your inspiration from?

Our biggest inspirations are Mahmoud Reda and Fareeda Fahmy, these two changed the view of dancing in our country from belly dance to artistic cultural dance that represents different areas in Egypt. We look at their dances and see art, creativity and passion...that is what inspires us.

They are very creative indeed. What do you guys feel you bring from your Egyptian background that’s different than other dancers?

I would believe a sense of happiness, charm and variety. Egypt is a very big country and so provides us with a variety of styles of dance from each region such as the Saidi dance from Upper Egypt, ElHaggala from Marsa Matrouh, Fellahy dance from the country side and many more. Each of these

Have you won any prizes before?

Yes, the team has won many since its creation but I don’t have the records of it. It is directly with AUC administration.

What was the toughest challenge the team has ever gone through?

It doesn’t get that dramatic, however, our one consistent challenge is finding enough male dancers to be part of our team. There is this ugly stereotype of male dancers that is very popular which makes most male students very reluctant to enroll in the team.

What’s in the future for your crew?

I believe it won’t get far from being a university based dance crew because it’s owned by the university itself. However, the AUC Folklore Troupe will continue to accept new students year after year and give artistic performances for as long as the students keep coming :) Is there anything else you’d like to say to your fans and supporters out there?

Thanks for the support and love over the years since this team was established till now, we hope to continue giving professional level performances by students :) IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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IDENTITY’S INTERVIEW

AMIR MOSTAFA

Brand Crafting Extraordinaire Interviewed by: Ahmed Hassan

MEET THE MAN BEHIND MANY OF YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS IN EGYPT. JUST AT THE AGE OF 38, AMIR (A.K.A. AMIR FAYO) BECAME A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR AND MANAGED TO TAKE HIS BUSINESS INTERNATIONALLY WORKING WITH BIG NAMES IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES! HE IS SINGLE TOO LADIES, WE RECKON HE WON’T BE FOR LONG. LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT HIS FASCINATING JOURNEY...

T

ell us a bit about your history Originally I studied electrical engineering but then I started working abroad during summer in several retail/fashion brands such as Emporio Armani & Benetton. My knowledge on retail expanded and realized that my passion is to create brands that stand for something and have a meaning to an audience.

In 2008, I joined JWT where I got the opportunity to collaborate on advertising campaigns as Vodafone and the campaign for the tourism of Egypt and again this was a different addition to my knowledge where I learned more about advertising and brands.

By 2010, I moved to NYC and I started my own company and my services as a brand architect What does a ‘brand architect’ do?

The scope of my business ranges from business models, brand ideas and concept all the way to the final details of the look and feel of the space. It’s a mix between thinking and strategy driven process to creative thinking and real life executions. My clients range from investors creating brands and businesses to entrepreneurs who are trying to articulate their business idea and bring it to life. I work on building brands that are striking and meaningful to consumers.

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Have you always been passionate about the world of advertising?

I am more passionate about creating brands than the advertising industry.

Do you have a favourite campaign that you worked on?

My favourite brand: Zooba as it gave me the chance to use my own cultural heritage and my own language to create a different perception for Egyptian street food. As for advertising, the tourism campaign in Egypt and the Duracell Powermat in NY. Was it challenging breaking a cultural barrier and reaching international consumers?

I gained such knowledge when I worked in a company called Nelly Rodi where I worked on forecasting global trends & consumer insights. I dealt with international customers and it was an eye opening experience to witness behaviour of many different cultures and how the basic simple human feelings are always the same but the ways of expression are different from one culture to the other. People are people everywhere; they have the same fears, insecurities and joys. If u can understand how they feel and what their aspirations are, a lot of doors will open :)

You were named one of top 10 entrepreneurs by Monocole Magazine back in 2011, What do you think sets you apart from other entrepreneurs?

I think the recognition of Monocole was overrated, I am sure there are tons of people in Egypt who created and still develop amazing things every day. I was just in the right place and moment to be selected by Monocle. I think I am like every other person who dream about something and work hard for it. I have met in my career very smart people that I always aspired to be in their league of intelligence or creative people that I would really call them a genius breed of humans!

Along the way, I realized you can’t become smarter, you can’t become a genius, either you are born as one or not. What you can do is teach yourself the skills that smarter people might not have and surround yourself with people who are smarter than you so you get to places quicker than the smart one on his own ;)

What are the perks of doing what you do?

Being exposed to different business models and brand experiences has taught me different layers of knowledge and taught me that creativity has to be logical.

What do you think of advertising & branding in Egypt? Do you think Egyptian consumers are more ‘aware’ & brand conscious?

Of course we all relate to brands when we say I like to buy this brand and I don’t like to buy this item.

Branding is emotional and we are a very emotional culture so for sure we understand and we relate to it but in our own way.

What do you see are the most important characteristics of entrepreneurs?

Guts; have the guts to do and be ready for a roller coaster ride because no one will pay you a check at the end of the month :) How does the creative process go for you? Do you need a certain setting to summon creativity?

My process is very simple, define, analyze, design and execute. I like linear logical thinking with a creative spirit.

Which projects are you most proud of?

My own brands like Villa Babushka, Boutique 51, 69, Aura, Nassya.com, Zooba and NOLA. On a global level, Duracell power matt and hotel Missoni and product development stages of Dean & DeLuca in NY. How was the transition from working in Egypt to working in several countries?

It was quite tough actually because you think when you email people and they don’t reply back to you, you think it’s about you! Living in NYC, you learn when people don’t reply it isn’t about you, it’s about that you are trying to reach people who are the best in what they do and they are too busy to answer someone they don’t know. So it takes time to understand how to connect and what to say...

Some of your work is interior design and architecture, is that correct?

I wouldn’t say architecture, as I have a lot of

respect for architects and admire their profession and I always read about the topic but I can relate more to interiors. I did over 30 interior design projects but again I am self taught, never studied the profession. I am always improvising!

Do you have an all-time favourite advertising campaign (not yours)?

The dove campaign “Beauty Sketches” and I always use it as a reference in my presentations as it’s a brilliant example of perception.

What motivated you to get to where you are today?

Always feeling that I don’t know enough, I am an animal of curiosity!

What do you envision for Egypt in the next 5 years (From your own point of view whether socially, economically or otherwise…)?

Big question, wish I can be that visionary to have an answer.

What’s next for Amir Fayo?

Play and live inspiring experiences every day.

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From that moment the doctor promises a newly pregnant couple that they are having a baby boy, to the day he gets married, an Egyptian man enjoys privileges given to him merely due to the fact that he has a penis. In our society, I find it very unfair that many Egyptian men still feel like “Si El Sayed’; superior to women in every aspect.

Let’s take a sarcastic look at the different stages and benefits of being ‘Si El Sayed’

THE PERKS OF BEING ‘SI EL SAYED’

By: Ahmed Hassan

IDENTITY’S PIECE OF WRITING

It all starts with upbringing. They say our personalities are a mix of nature and nurture! Well I believe in our society nurture plays a very big role in our personalities. Once the boy is born he is surrounded by an aura of ‘Alf mabrouk galak walad yesheel esm el 3ela’ and immediately he earns a certain respect in his family (especially if he is the only boy). We’re talking the best of everything; he gets the lion’s share of everything even if he is the second child after a girl. His mother even hooks him up with other girls, not just one but ALL the girls of her close friends and family. Being the only boy after two girls in my family, I can’t even count the number of times ‘gawezoony’ to every girl I had a play date with.

Many families don’t expect from the boy child to handle any house chores since they are the girl’s or the mother’s job! He grows up completely dependent on that female figure that does everything for him without even questioning. He grows up seeing women as inferior and capable of handling only easy and household tasks but not equal to men. How many men have you met who don’t know how to ‘cook’ spaghetti or even fold their own t-shirt? Very manly isn’t it??

Speaking of manliness, the uncles’ idea of quality time with the young boy is talking about women with sexual innuendos & puberty. The child’s curiosity and innocence is replaced with the idea that being a man is all about that; sexualizing women, facial hair, rough voice and the ability to ‘please’ himself. By the time he is a teenager, he starts flirting with ‘El mozaz’ and exploring their bodies (which is okay for the boy to do but never for the girl) and if he didn’t do that then he carries the ‘3ayel 5ere3 burden’ and feels emasculated.

Moving on to his young adulthood, he is automatically expected to follow in his father’s footsteps. He ends up in engineering, medicine or even law schools not because he actually wants it but because his father ‘hayzabato’ once he graduates. He fools around with a couple of girls and leaves them all for the one with the innocent smile and good family who barely turns him on sexually (which akeed means enaha a virgin).

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When it comes to the Egyptian man being in a relationship, it’s a whole new level of ‘Si El Sayed’. He starts applying everything he learned by example from the male figures in his life. He doesn’t care about her future or what degree she gets; after all, he will be the one to take care of the household. As long as she stays cute, does what she is told and doesn’t succeed beyond his success it’s all good! Compromise, listening, understanding are all terms of no meaning for ‘Si El Sayed’ since he is always right. Not to mention that if you ever see him tear up and mention it, it will be the end of the world! He is never to show weakness or vulnerability these are for women!

They turn into big babies, demanding, with intense love & hate emotions that will confuse even Oprah.

With that he controls the girl he is with, makes her wear what he wants, stop talking to whoever he wants and even stop seeing her friends because they are “bad influence” when he is just trying to avoid seeing her best friend with the big boobs and revealing outfits. Why do you need friends when you have him to serve? On the other hand, he gets to go out with his friends, stay up late and even flirt with other women because he can control his harmless play.

Ready for marriage? You thought he would change didn’t you? Nope, sorry, got you there! If anything his control increases, because with that ring on your finger, he feels like he owns you. The wife needs to look good, make him feel good about himself and his accomplishments and have no needs beyond satisfying his (especially the sexual ones). It’s ok for him to get fat and ugly but the woman has to maintain how she looked like when they married. Although these days, this sort of shifted to him spending all his free time at the gym to get a body that he will enjoy showing off to other women instead of his wife. HE SUDDENLY TURNS INTO A GROWN SINGLE MAN WHILE HE IS MARRIED! Unfortunately what further confirms his behaviour, are the women who put up with all of that for the sake of being married and not breaking apart an already dysfunctional household. Religion is often used to put further control on his wife. If she has any thoughts of a career of her own then she is not a good mother, why should she need a job if he brings in the dough?! It’s insulting!

If you find many or all of these qualities mentioned here then congratulations! You’ve got yourself a real ‘Si El Sayed’, you can now go be the little dumb doll he desires you to be and procreate even more men with the same complex issue all over again.

Or you could join the feminist force and spread the equality virus among the Egyptian male population.

IDENTITY’S PIECE OF WRITING

AWESOME EGYPTIAN INVENTIONS By: Ahmed Hassan

EYE MAKEUP – KOHL: Egyptians are credited for the invention of eye makeup as far back as 4000 BC! They used makeup not only for beauty purposes but also to present class and socioeconomic status. Kohl is by far the longest standing invention, used by most women to this day. Egyptian or ‘Arabian’ Kohl is regarded to be the best in the world. Makeup was not just used by women but also by men. Beyond the cosmetic reasons, it was believed that applying a thick coating of makeup helps with various eye diseases.

WRITTEN LANGUAGE: Even though drawings were used to express words and tell stories date back to 30,000 BC, Egyptians are among the first to come up with a writing system. It started with pictograms and images depicting events and then evolved to having symbols and sounds which we came to know as hieroglyphics.

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CALENDAR: We would just be lost in time today if it weren’t for our ancestors! The Egyptians created the calendar to differentiate between different seasons and times of Nile flood. The entire agricultural system was highly dependent on the calendar which they divided into 3 seasons: inundation, growing and harvest. Each season had four months and each month divided into 30 days which totals to a year of 360 days.

BREATH MINTS : Be proud and thankful when taking a breath mint that could save a rather embarrassing and awkward social encounter (Smooch Smooch).

Egyptians devised the breath mints to conceal unpleasant aromas. If only they all still continue to use them to this day!

WIGS: Wig it out like an Egyptian! Back in the day, they used to shave their heads bald during the summer to keep them clean. However, other than priests and laborers, it was not considered aesthetically pleasing to be bald which is why they invented wigs. It wasn’t meant to replace hair, it was merely a head piece made in elaborate designs and shapes.

THE DOOR LOCK: When you lock your bedroom door to keep your parents out and enjoy a little alone time, be grateful that ancient Egyptians appreciated privacy too. They invented a device around 4000 BC that allowed a key to shift a bolt into an open or closed position. However, it was huge in size (about 0.6 meters) which wasn’t very convenient.

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IDENTITY’S PIECE OF WRITING

STEREOTYPICALLY EVERY DAY DURING OUR USUAL ROUTINE, WE MEET A VARIETY OF PEOPLE WHO ARE STEREOTYPICALLY (AND PAINFULLY SO) EGYPTIAN! HERE’S A MORE UP CLOSE & PERSONAL LOOK (NO JUDGMENT – AT LEAST I’LL TRY).

Veiled Girl on Kasr El Nile: CHARACTER: M2afela 3ala nafsaha, monafka & lies to herself, forced to wear veil, can’t wait to get married l ‘Dakar’ yesatetha.

ITEMS ON HER: Bag full of makeup, barfan, mobile Nokia music full of Tamer Hosny music.

IDEA OF FUN: Walks on cornice El-Nile, listening to her boyfriend talk about their future, and sitting by the sea in Alexandria eating ice cream.

STATUS: ‘Mortabeta’ without any official engagement.

Guy in Skinny Jeans: CHARACTER: ‘open minded’ fash5, beta3 manazer, follows trends as they die out, happiest when getting follows on twitter and instagram ITEMS ON HIM: Fake Gucci wallet, Samsung SIII and keychain with ‘Souret el 7asad’ on it.

IDEA OF FUN: Taking pictures at cafes with his girlfriends, any mainstream event, stalking others through social media STATUS: Suspiciously single

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EGYPTIAN By: Ahmed Hassan

Party Girl: CHARACTER: Good girl gone bad, slutty yet still a virgin, rebellious, seeks independence, outgoing, popular and has issues ITEMS ON HER: Cigarettes, more cigarettes and red bull IDEA OF FUN: Clubbing, traveling, going to new hotspots and ‘innocently’ playing with cute boys STATUS: Heartbroken recently single

–

Nerd with Back Bag: CHARACTER: Good boy, religious, tight with his family, yearns for exploration and independence, secretly fantasizes about his teacher and wears all kinds of plaid shirts ITEMS ON HIM: Kleenex packet, gaming laptop and a picture of Jesus in his wallet IDEA OF FUN: Playing COD with friends, hanging out at the club and traveling with his church group STATUS: Forever alone

JUST TO AVOID MANY HATEFUL LOOKS AND COMMENTS, ALL THE CHARACTERS IN THIS ARTICLE ARE FICTIONAL & DEPICT THE STEREOTYPES OF SOME EGYPTIANS. IF YOU FELT LIKE YOU WERE LOOKING AT A REFLECTION OF YOURSELF IT IS PURELY COINCIDENTAL. IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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IDENTITY’S REVIEWS

BEST OF Cairo

Nightlife:

2013 & BEYOND! CAIRO IS FULL OF EVER GROWING OPPORTUNITIES, HERE IS THE BEST IT HAS TO OFFER!

By: Ahmed Hassan

Dining

Goya Sushi – Bored of going to the same old places that serve sushi? Head to Goya for fresh delicious sushi, interesting décor and scrumptious desserts!

12 Hassan Assem St., Zamalek

Vent – Mixing alcohol with a much needed place to showcase art and underground talents; this new art bar is coming in to save nightlife in Cairo & replace Arabesque as the newest hip place to go!

6 Kasr El Nile St., Downtown

Fitness:

Music Cairo Jazz Club – The long standing hot spot is a crowd’s favourite due to hosting a variety of local artists and musicians from Jazz all the way to House music.

197, 26th July St., Agouza

Shopping: The wellness log – ever wanted to feel like a celebrity with your very own tailored nutrition and workout program?

Now you can! Go to thewellnesslog.com and start your dream makeover now!

Whether you are looking for casual or high street fashion, head to Mohandessin for one of the shopping streets in Cairo; Burberry, H&M, Pull & Bear, Bershka and more of your favourite brands!

Intersection of Wadi El Nil & Lebanon street 52

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Culture

Darb 1718 – the contemporary art and culture center has certified itself as one of the cultural beacons of Cairo; displaying work of emerging new artists & capturing the attention of an eccentric crowd.

Kasr el Shamae Street, Fustat, Old Cairo (Behind Hanging Church)

8 RESTAURANT: THE FINEST CHINESE CUISINE OF 21ST CENTURY.

ECLECTIC

SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

When was the last time you walked into a space that took your breath away? This is the effect that 8 restaurant unequivocally evokes among guests.

As one is greeted and escorted to the dining space, one begins to realize they have started to embark upon a pretty special culinary journey. The welcome is genuinely warm; the surroundings are atmospheric; the menu is stimulating; the overall ambiance feels creatively composed. Welcome to 8, Egypt’s finest Chinese dining experience, at Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza.

The talented Chinese Chef Shuhua, presents an extensive selection of menu items including many varieties of steamed and fried dim sum. Translating to “touch the heart,”’ dim sum is a Chinese favourite.

Highlights of 8’s dim sum menu are the shrimp and crab dumpling with black caviar, and steamed Chiuchow-style dumplings with spicy vegetarian sauce. Every Friday, Chef Shuhua presents is artistic dim sum buffet in an interactive chef-guest experience, to enjoy a dim sum brunch with family and friends, sipping Chinese tea and feasting on a wonderful assortment of dishes.

The best thing about 8 is that guests can decide how private they wish their dining experience to be.

The main hall leads off to five Nile-side semi private dining rooms, perfect for groups, romantic couples, or business guests. Don’t miss it: 202-2791 7000

As soon as you notice the little embossed silver sign on Mohamed Mazhar street, Zamalek, you are instantly tempted to check the store out. Once you step foot in the place you immediately grasp that it won’t be like any other store or boutique, starting with the unconventional, avantegarde design which aims at attracting and interacting with the customers; allowing them to further investigate each product up close and personal. The store stocks around 15 high quality brands from around the world, from fashion to décor, every item is unique and come in limited supply. As you walk through the store, you are overwhelmed with a feeling of exploration and start checking every item out. The best thing about it is that you might find items that make you wonder “How come I don’t have one already?!”

Not only will you find items like hair accessories, funky clutches or even designer shirts for men and women, you will also find creative games for the little ones too! like the Indian tent which they build and colour to their liking. Even if you’re in the process of renewing your home, check out Incana, an Italian brand that provides high quality artificial stone that will modernize your home in a natural looking way.

For those who appreciate luxury, quality and exclusive items, 50A concept store delivers all that and more! Whether you’re in the mood for a little shopping or not, the experience of enjoying the store is one that you do not want to miss!

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IDENTITY’S REVIEWS

MARRIOTT EGYPT SAYS THANK YOU WITH GLOBAL CUSTOMER APPRECIATION WEEK

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arriott Egypt sales & marketing teams celeberated an annual iniative by Marriott International to say thank you to all customers & partners.

The Global Customer Appreciation Week aims to emphasize the company’s commitment with partners.

Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director of Marriott International, Middle East and Africa, said: “As the company grows across the Middle East and Africa, we are acutely aware that the regional hospitality sector is highly competitive; guests are highly sophisticated and have a choice of where

to dine, drink and stay. The Global Customer Appreciation Week is simply a chance for us to personally thank our guests and customers, and to give something back to the communities we live and work in.”

The 2013 Global Customer Appreciation Week activities included a kick off meeting for the Sales & Marketing teams of Marriott properties in Egypt at Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar El Khayyam Casino.

Through out the week the Marriott Egypt Team joined for shuttle visit all across Cairo to ensure the Thank You message is well received by their loyal customers. Topping of the week, a fun filled Dinner by the Magnificent pool of the newly opened Renneisance.

“The Global Customer Appreciation Week is simply a chance for us to personally thank our guests and customers...”

Saying Thank you to the community Marriott hotels in Egypt also organized a celebration in cooperation with the Egyptian clothing bank, which works to secure and provide those in need with enough clothes all over Egypt, this was part of the Spirit to Serve the Community Marriott initiatives and support efforts.

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

IDENTITY’S CAIRO’S HAPPENINGS

Cairo’s Happenings “When Fabric Care Meets Fashion” Bazaar & Fashion show During the spectacular Bazaar & Fashion show of the season featuring the season’s latest fashion of Egypt’s most well renowned designers such as Hesham Abo El Ella, Ariel unveiled its latest breakthrough innovation “Ariel PODs”, the most technologically advanced 3 compartments POD in the world that provides best cleaning results while taking care of fabric.

Have a ball this year and welcome New Year 2014 with cheers and fun all night only at Le Passage Cairo Hotel & Casino!

Be it a classy dinner event in the privacy of our Azure fine dinning restaurant, or a hip event at Le Papillon discotheque, we at Le Passage Cairo will ensure, that you will start the year 2014 in style!

Celebrate New Year’s Eve The Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences way!

The Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences is the perfect venue for every mood’s celebration, enjoy the New year’s Eve with our festive menu at the “ “Time Lounge” in an elegant tranquil atmosphere.

Festive Season Celebrations At Four Seasons Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is the place to be during the festive season as it prepares to give guests and visitors alike the first-class hospitality it is renowned for throughout the holiday period. Christmas is always a special time at Nile Plaza with Santa’s visit, gingerbread house and live piano music at the lobby, while offering a choice of venues to enjoy a delightful evening.

Barclays Bank Egypt Inspirational Seminars Barclays Bank Egypt hosted the developers of Bey2ollak – a mobile application used by millions of Smartphone users – as part of a series seminar, under the title “Be Inspired”, to present inspiring success stories by successful young Egyptians.

Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s at the Marriott Palace For Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day enjoy dinner and lunch buffets at “Roy’s Country Kitchen” while at “Saraya Gallery” & “Harry’s Pub” you can indulge in our especially tailored set menus for this festive occasion.This New Year’s Eve enjoy a spectacular dinner at “Ristorante Tuscany” or “JW’s Steakhouse” while listening to the tunes of the inspirational live music.

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IDENTITY’S CAIRO’S HAPPENINGS

Tivoli Dome – Halloween Celebration Tivoli Dome- Zayed & Tivoli Dome Heliopolis have celebrated the Halloween on Thursday, 31st of October, Friday and Saturday, 1st and 2nd of November.

Halloween’s “Night of Fright” at O Bar An extravagant Halloween’s night with O Bar’s new resident DJ, Monir Zakhari.

Zakhari spinned some dark tribal house sets that were complementing the spooky mood of the night. Guests dressed up in avatars, hulks, jokers, school girls, and construction workers costumes. O Bar boosted a wave of glitz and glamour that is typical of Cairo’s premier hotel, Fairmont Nile City.

Royal Tulip Alexandria Luxury Hotel Dancing Event Such a splendid night with super cool people enjoying a private world of total lavishness! With purely House night by DJ ToyBoys who rocked the dance floor!

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Maybelline Comes To Egypt!

The international cosmetics brand launched at Le Pacha, Zamalek in a wonderful event.

Refaat Jewellers Grand Opening Event at the Four Seasons, First Mall The opening event took place on Thursday the 7th of November with teen model, Tara Emad and TV Talk Show Host Motaz el Demerdash present for the occasion. The jewellery featured is a collection of brands including Yoko of London, Tirisi, Utopia and Refaat Jewellers’ very own creations.

Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences Celebrates with “El Zamalek Tourism & Investment Company” In celebration of the several awards that had been awarded to the hotel during the year 2013, the awards are: Trip Advisor “Award of Excellence 2013”., MENA Travel Award of “Best Corporate Hotel 2013, World Tourism Day 2013 “Award of Excellence” by Minster of Tourism and World Travel Awards “Egypt’s leading Hotel 2013.

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan took part in Aswan is Safe Festival Aswan is Safe Festival took place in Aswan under the auspices of the Aswan Governor Army Major General/ Mustafa Yosri El Sayed and the Minister of Tourism, Dr. Hesham Zaazoue.

Dazzling Christmas and New year Celebrations at Sheraton Miramar Exceed Christmas and New Year celebrations at Sheraton Miramar with unique festive ambiance at the perfect venues with spectacular Sea view. Ensuring that every day will be filled with the joy and excitement required for a happy holiday season.

Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah… the ideal ambience for your Christmas and New Year Eve celebration Step into the New Year with an extravagant & glamorous New Years Eve at Buddha Bar Cairo’s signature night spot, offers innovative Asian Fusion Cuisine, signature Cocktails and lavish sushi with live DJ entertainment.

Prices start from LE 900 for Silver and LE 1900 for Gold.

New Year’s eve wish at Radisson Blu Hotel, Alexandria Enjoy this year the “Horror Night” theme and the international delectable open buffet on the tunes of our D.J, Saxophone &the belly dancer show for only EGP 500.00 per person all inclusive. Party will start from 9:00 pm till 3:00 am. Furthermore, you can enjoy the room’s package including the “Horror night party” and the following day breakfast for only EGP 725.00 per person in double room all inclusive.

2014 NISSAN GT-R Outstanding performance meets a new level of sophistication Evolution never stops for the Nissan GT-R. Nissan’s iconic sports car brings a refreshed vision of “innovation that excites” with the introduction of the 2014 model offering a new level of sophistication, yet with no compromise in performance.

Samsung Expands on its Children Education Initiative this year in Bani Sweif Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Egypt, recently announced the outstanding results and ongoing operations on its developmental initiative in Bani Sweif, as they continue to empower the technological skills of Upper Egypt’s children under its campaign “Samsung Hope for Children.”

The British Council choose Windrose Academy to conduct the tests that are related to Cambridge University Windrose Academy is the first GEMS school in Egypt to host the Cambridge IGCSE Examinations held by the British Council, which is looking to broaden its accessibility to students throughout the city.

Kempinski Nile Hotel Appoints Peter Nast as General Manager Kempinski Nile Hotel is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter Nast to General Manager. Nast has 24 years’ experience in hotel operations and revenue management, and has held numerous positions including General Manager, Executive Assistant Manager and Director of Sales and Marketing.

Yasmine Sherif Promoted to Multi Property Director of Marketing Communications at the JW Marriott Cairo and Renaissance Cairo Mirage City.

Yasmine, a dynamic and quality focused public relations and communications calibre, brings with her a rich experience garnered from her career in the hospitality industry and her successful leadership experience with Marriott International.

Yasmine has been a member of the Marriott family for the past 4 years.

A true joy of Christmas spirit with the harmonies of “Rafik Attalah” at Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino – Cairo Sonesta Hotel - Cairo is inviting you for a memorable special Christmas Eve Dinner including Turkey Dishes and joyful live band entrainment, or a delightful Lunch Buffet on Christmas Day featuring traditional Christmas favorites.

IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

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IDENTITY’S AY KALAM

EGYPT NOW THEN

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IDENTITY DECEMBER 2013

Duravit Showrooms

See what is beyond

Starck 3 Undercounter Washbasin + Countertop Washbasin + Furniture Washbasin

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SHOWROOMS. Our NEW CONCEPT in Egypt is a COMPLETE bathroom in all aspects : clients in our top-end special Duravit

furniture, fittings, accessories and sanitary ware.

Starck 3, design by Philippe Starck

We can help you in designing your bathroom.

Visit us at DESIGNOPOLIS | SHERATON

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Designopolis El Haram District - H-206 KM 38 Cairo Alexandria Desert Road, Sheikh Zayd City 6th of October - Egypt Phone +2 02 38572041 +2 02 38572042

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Phone +2 02 26968700 Fax +2 02 22681298