SEPTEMBER 2016 - 15 L.E., VOLUME 11, ISSUE 12 WWW.IDENTITY-MAG.COM
make-up tips:
LIGHT VS DARK YOGA POSES TO TURN BACK THE CLOCK
27
FALL FASHION LOOKS your guide to easy living
YOUR ANTIAGING DIET
LIFE BEGINS AT 40! see page 46
WHAT HAPPY PEOPLE DON’T WORRY ABOUT
A/W 2016
FASHION TRENDS
MYSTERIOUS INTRIGUE taking risks to another level
6 Identity September 2016
letter from the editors
mysterious intrigue see page 36
G
rowing up, you accept that no matter how hard you try; there are things that are just out of your hands. Youth sets aside and wisdom hits in. You are faced with reality; life is tough!! We are all barely surviving! All the people you see laughing, dancing, partying…all have there own struggles, all are trying to find a coping mechanism to make it through. Hitting your 40’s is a bliss; you are still young inside out, you feel the same no matter what, but at ease having figured out life a bit more. You still have your own struggles for sure, but tend to be easy on yourself. Enjoy to the max, your prime years are yet to start.
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. 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 8 Identity September 2016
masthead
SEPTEMBER VOLUME 11
ISSUE 12
IDENTITY-MAG.COM
Founder & Managing Editor ROLA KAMEL Editor-in-Chief NAWAL ISMAIL Senior Arabic Editor ADEL SALIB Copy-Editor AMINA EL FAYOUMY Junior Editors AMINA MOUSTAPHA, ALIA EL SAADY, NUHA EL ZUBEIR Relationship Expert MARWA RAKHA Psychology Expert KATE KERPEZ Fashion Expert NAHED KAZZIHA Senior Graphic Designer ALIA EL-ABD Graphic design intern SAMA ABBAS Marketing & Advertising Manager RIHAM YEHIA Digital Marketing Manager STEVE NABEEL Social Media Executive NOUR NADER Online Advertising Consultant MARWA KAMEL Identity Magazine Distributors ASHRAF FOUAD & ESSAM IBRAHIM Website Company QPIX SOLUTIONS Distribution Company AL AHRAM Printing House INTERNATIONAL PRINTING HOUSE (IPH)
10 Identity September 2016
contents
36 27
shoot:
MYSTERIOUS INTRIGUE
THE LOVE OF LIFE
10 MUST-HAVES 12 YOUR ANTI-AGING DIET 14 SIX THINGS HAPPY PEOPLE DON’T WORRY ABOUT 16 FIVE ANTI-AGING YOGA POSES 18 ARE YOU A MORNING LARK OR A NIGHT OWL 20 LIFE LESSONS IN WORDS 22 AGING GRACEFULLY 23 FOUR LATE ACHIEVERS
50
WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER GIVE UP
12 Identity September 2016
FASHION & BEAUTY 24 MAKE-UP: LIGHT VS DARK 26 TOP 7 FW’16 TRENDS 30 SLAYING CLOTHES NOT THE ENVIRONMENT 32 FASHION FIT
YOUNG AT HEART 42 MARRIED TO A STRANGER 44 WHY LIFE BEGINS AT 40 46 HOW TO KEEP YOUR HEART AND SOUL HAPPY 48 TAKING THINGS EASY 52 ULTIMATE GUIDE: HOW TO DEAL WITH MENOPAUSE 54 THE FEAR OF AGING
BITS & PIECES 56 SNAPS 58 PRESS RELEASES 64 HOROSCOPES
www.identity-mag.com
11 Period Struggles They Didn’t Tell Us About
Dutch Team Dresses in Solidarity With Egyptian?
Big News For Amina & Amr?
What’s Inside What’s Hot
Interviews
Entertainment
Bel Masry
Relationships
Life
A La Mode
Health Gurus
Latest news in Egypt, the world, and the Internet.
This section is based on Egyptian culture and funny things Egyptians relate to.
Everything beauty and fashion related in the Egyptian fashion scene.
Missed the interview when it was published? you can find it here.
Everything from love advice to intimacy related to Egyptian culture and traditions.
Everything related to health and fitness.
It is all about entertaining; from celebrity news to places to go
This section is dedicated to serious topics, discussions, interviews and open letters.
must-haves BULGARI - SERPENTI DIAMOND RING “Bedazzle your perfectly manicured nails with this ring in 18kt pink gold with black onyx and pavé diamonds” HERMÈS LES CLÉS SCARF “This house of Hermès classic was first issued in 1965. The keys are inspired by models in the collections of Emile Hermès and the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles, they are a superb ensemble of antique fine metalwork”
IDENTITY LOVES MANOLO BLAHNIK - HANGISI SUEDE NUDE PUMP “Nude lace almond toe pumps featuring a Swarovski crystal front buckle and a spin high heel.”
VERSACE - VE2120 “An exclusive keynote accessory of Versace’s collection guaranteed to make you the showstopper of your group.”
DIOR - DIOR VIII TIMEPIECE “Striking, elegant and timeless, Dior VIII is reminiscent of the day the emblematic fashion house was created, October 8th 1946.”
TONY BURCH - TONY BURCH EMMA DROP EARRING “These earrings feature Swarovski-crystal pearls along with a tiny signature logo, adding a graphic element — and a hint of shine — to everyday looks.”
DIOR - DIOR ADDICT ULTRA GLOSS IN THE SHADE SCANDALOUS “More than just a gloss, Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss is a lip plumper and gloss all in one.”
16 Identity September 2016
YVES SAINT LAURENT - CLASSIC MONAGRAMME SHOULDER BAG “Classic Saint Laurent top handle bag with metal chain and leather removable shoulder strap.”
the love of life
YOUR ANTI-AGING DIET by Alia El Saady
BLUEBERRIES
Sometimes all you have to do to add years to your life, look and feel healthier is, to eat. It might be hard to believe, but what we eat dictates how we look and feel over a long period of time. That’s why the turn of phrase “you are what you eat” isn’t just a saying. Oftentimes, a change in diet can help us feel healthier on the inside and on the outside. If you want an all natural rejuvenation method, you don’t need to go searching for the fountain of youth. You just need to increase the intake of these foods in your diet.
This tasty little blue miracle fruit is full of antioxidants which give your skin extra protection from the damage caused by free radicals. A half a cup of this in your breakfast and you’ll see a loss of fine lines and wrinkles. And if you’re feeling really adventurous on your mornings, whip a batch of blueberry pancakes for a nutritious treat that’s equally satisfying.
GREEN TEA If you want to ensure that your skin doesn’t suffer from hyper pigmentation and brown spots, a cup of green tea might just be what you need. One cup of this healthy brew will help reduce the effects of aging through the antioxidants and chemical compounds found in the tea itself.
POMEGRANATES
KALE AND SPINACH
Pomegranates are packed with vitamin C which helps fight off wrinkles; they also contain compounds that fight off free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can destroy cells and are actually the culprits of many diseases and a lot of the symptoms of ageing. This is why eating a pomegranate is useful in combating these free radicals on the long term. Another super nutrient also found in pomegranates can help the body preserve more collagen, which makes the skin appear smooth and look plump.
These greens work wonders for skin elasticity. Kale is one of the most nutrient dense foods out there with a high content of vitamins and a low content of fats; you basically can’t get enough of it. It also happens to be extremely rich in antioxidants, which is great for fighting those nasty free radicals. Spinach contains beta-carotene, which is known to increase skin elasticity. A combination of both these two greens in your diet is a surefire way to improve the overall texture of your skin.
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the love of life
6
THINGS HAPPY PEOPLE DON’T WORRY ABOUT
visiting – but a happy person knows not to compare and knows that THEIR happiness is very different from, and not mutually exclusive to, other people’s lives. THE OPINIONS OF OTHERS Many times, we are told “you can’t do this” or “this isn’t good enough”, but those negative comments don’t bring down a truly happy person, who knows that the true power of their happiness lies far beyond the heresy.
WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS Most young people today have anxieties about what the future holds, and where their lives will be in by Nuha Elzubeir the coming years – but worrying about the future When all the noise fades away from our busy lives, really does more harm than good. A happy person the one thing that truly matters, the one thing we is content about the place they’re in at the moment, aspire for the most, is our pursuit of happiness; and aren’t worried about where they are going. from being pleasantly content with your life They aren’t plagued with the Must-Be-Successful to the intense joys of celebrating life. The best Syndrome because they realize that happiness is the thing about being happy – or reaching as close biggest success of life.
as possible to that goal – is that we don’t worry ourselves about many things. If you want to be Happiness doesn’t have an expiration date, and no matter how old you are, where you are in life, or what happy, stop caring about the following things:
MONEY It’s really hard to ignore the fact that money runs the world today. Most of our decisions and ambitions are motivated by finances and many still hold the belief that money can buy you happiness – a notion that we’ve long established isn’t true. Happiness is a state of mind that knows no monetary bounds. APPEARANCES In a world where appearances are becoming people’s priority concern, the way we look, or the way we are perceived holds far too much importance. Buying a new car, throwing the most lavish dinner party, or wearing the most expensive gown, means nothing to a person who is truly happy. The exterior is inferior. SOCIETAL NORMS A truly happy person recognizes that what our society tells us isn’t important, and simply listens to their instincts in terms of what makes them happy. They follow their dreams, because these societal norms are often designed to curb our happiness. WHAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE DOING With the growth of social media, we’re exposed to all the fun things everyone around us is doing, all the new items they’re buying, all the new places they’re 20 Identity September 2016
you’re doing right now, never stop pursuing your happiness. Detox the bad and embrace the positive.
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the love of life side. Turn your head to the right and hold for 15 to 30 seconds. Switch directions to stretch the other leg. This pose is great for strengthening your arms, thighs, legs and ankles. It’s also good at relieving back pain and increasing levels of stamina and endurance. 2- TREE POSE Stand with your feet together, toes forward. Place the sole of your right foot on the inside of your left thigh, your calf (not on the knee joint) or the inside of your ankle, with the toes of your right foot lightly touching the floor. Place your hands in prayer position in front of your chest and look straight ahead. Hold for 15 seconds. This pose is great for developing balance and strengthening your posture.
5
3- SEATED TWIST Sit cross-legged with your arms extended so your fingertips touch the mat on either side of your hips. Inhale, lengthening your spine and lifting your arms overhead. Exhale and twist gently to the right; lower your left hand to your outer right thigh and your right hand behind you. Look over your right shoulder. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds. This pose is really good for decreasing pressure on your spine and hips and known to improve flexibility.
4- COW POSE Start on your hands and knees in a “tabletop” position. Make sure your knees are set directly below your hips and your wrists. Elbows and shoulders are in line and perpendicular to the floor. Center your head in a neutral position, eyes looking at the floor. As you inhale, lift your sitting bones and chest toward the ceiling, allowing your belly to sink toward the by Alia El Saady floor. Lift your head to look straight forward. Want to turn back the clock to a time when you This pose stretches your back muscles and abdominal were more limber and flexible? Well, Yoga might muscles as well as your neck and increases the just be the thing you need to keep you looking and mobility of your spinal vertebrae.
ANTI-AGING YOGA POSES
feeling younger. A few of these poses and you’ll find that you’re getting a natural face and body lift without all the creams or nipping and tucking! Just make sure you have a mat, pillows and a nice open space so you can get started with these poses.
5- MOUNTAIN POSE Stand with the bases of your big toes touching, heels slightly apart (so that your second toes are parallel). Lift and spread your toes and the balls of your feet, then lay them softly down on the floor. Rock back and forth and side to side. Gradually reduce this swaying 1- WARRIOR II POSE Stand with your feet shoulder apart; move your right to a standstill, with your weight balanced evenly on foot pointing to side and left foot turned in slightly. the feet. Keep your torso facing forward. Exhale and bend This pose is the basis of all standing poses and is great your right knee. Inhale and raise your arms out to the for strengthening your thigh muscles. 22 Identity September 2016
psychological insights lifespan, so that children tend to be larks, transition to owls as adolescents, and then transition back to larks as adults. Age is one characteristic that tends to separate the owls from the larks. Approximately 63% of people over age 60 reported that they were larks on a survey, while only 24% of people under age 30 reported the same. Women are also more likely to be larks than men, with 48% reporting a preference for mornings while only 40% of men reported a morning preference.
ARE YOU A MORNING LARK OR A NIGHT OWL
Interestingly, there tends to be personality differences between larks and owls that may or may not be tied to genetics. Larks, on one hand, report higher levels of personality traits like persistence, cooperation and conscientiousness. They also tend to procrastinate less, and unsurprisingly, they tend to sleep better than night owls. Owls, on the other hand, are often more intelligent and wealthy than larks, but they also tend to use caffeine and alcohol more than their morning counterparts. Of course, they are also more likely to be insomniacs, and are more likely to sleepwalk.
Although larks and owls may be different in many ways, this does not stop them from finding common Do you wake up in the morning feeling refreshed ground. Both larks and owls, for instance, perform and ready for the day’s events? Or do you wake better on creative problem-solving questions at up groggy, after hitting the snooze button on their opposite preferred time of day - that is, larks your alarm clock three times? Most people have performed better in the evening, and owls performed a certain time of day when they feel the most better in the morning. In fact, if you are a lark, you energized, and that time of day might be built may want to try staying up late the next time you go into our genes, say scientists. In a survey that on a date. As it turns out, morning people are more asked people if they considered themselves a likely to have relationships with night people. It morning or night person, or if they had no seems that larks and owls can get along, after all. by Kate Kerpez
preference, 75.5% of respondents indicated that they considered themselves either a morning or night person. Overall, 44% of survey respondents identified themselves as ‘morning larks,’ while the 56% majority identified themselves as ‘night owls.’
The cause of our tendency to be more alert in the morning or evening lies in our genetic circadian rhythms, or our “internal clock.” Circadian rhythms exist in the brains of humans and other animals to tell the body when to sleep and when to be awake over the course of 24 hours. People with a longer circadian rhythm are more likely to be owls, while those with shorter circadian rhythms are more likely to be larks. Circadian rhythms also tend to change over the 24 Identity September 2016
Sources: -This One Factor May Explain Why You’re a Morning Person or a Night Owl: http://www.businessinsider.com/being-a-morningperson-or-a-night-owl-is-in-your-genes-2016-2 -Early Bird or Night Owl? It May be in Your Genes: http:// www.livescience.com/53624-morning-person-geneticinfluence.html -Why You’re an Early Bird or a Night Owl: http://www. webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/early-bird-night-owl -Morning People Vs. Night Owls: 8 Insights Backed by Science: http://www.fastcodesign.com/3046391/ evidence/morning-people-vs-night-people-9-insightsbacked-by-science
City Stars Tel. 202 2480 2240 • Mall of Arabia Tel. 02 011 2848 7777 • Cairo Festival City Tel. 01 125 857777 virginmegastore.ae
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the love of life
LIFE LESSONS IN WORDS by Amina Moustapha
Remember when you were a kid and you thought being a grown-up meant having all the answers? Well, now that we are all grown, we’re still trying to figure out life. Some authors understand that we are naturally impatient. We want the answers and we want them now, so they casted some of those writers spells and came up with significant you should fight it back, and that’s what the book will books tutoring some of life’s most important guide you through. lessons. 1. ‘TUESDAY WITH MORRIE’ BY MITCH ALBOM ‘Tuesday With Morrie’ is a truly fantastic reading, and when it comes to life lessons, it literally has it all. Mitch Albom– the author- recounts the time spent with his 78-year-old sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz. Through Morrie’s every Tuesday lessons, you will learn that life is not meant to be filled with happiness, joy and relationships, but at the same time it is not meant to be sorrowful. Morrie viewed it exactly as is. He knew that the most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love and to let it come in, because life without love is meaningless. 2. ‘THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING’ BY JOAN DIDION No matter how strong we are to face life’s challenges, there is this one feeling that will smash down our shield. It’s grief. In her book, Joan Didion will show us how grief weakens the knees and blinds the eyes. The book deals with the infinite sense of loss surrounding the death of a vital person. It explains how grief does not follow some straight line, where you’re devastated and then day by day you’re less devastated, until one day you’re fine. It ebbs and flows. There’s nothing logical about it, and trying to impose logic isn’t going to help you at all. Instead, 26 Identity September 2016
3. ‘TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD’ BY HARPER LEE “You never really understand a person until you consider things from their point of view…until you climb into their skin and walk around in it.” This book offers crucial lessons about prejudice and the fears that motivate it. It doesn’t give in to the belief that deep down, everybody’s actually good. Not everybody is. And we must still persevere to see things from their perspective, and though we may not justify their ways, we must strive to understand them. Yet, there comes a time when some people need to be put down – we must follow the call of our conscience then, and yet be kind to them in the process, as much as we can. 4. ‘THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS’ BY ANN BRASHARES This book is a sparkling breath of fresh air; it captures the spirit of friendship in the most charming and sauciest manner possible. In The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, we follow four girl best friends as they go their separate ways for the first time in the summer to step out into the world of grown-ups and real life. The story might be going for a fun cute read, but it hints at deeper topics. It focused on the exploration of family dysfunction, death and the bonds of friendship.
the love of life
4 LATE ACHIEVERS by Amina Moustapha
Some people who are in their late twenties and early thirties might believe that time for success has already passed them by. Others who have failed several times or their work has gone unnoticed also translated their lack of success to incompetence.
as a novelist at the time’. At the age of 43, he began what would eventually turn into his epic fantasy series: A Song of Ice and Fire. It became the New York Times No. 1 Bestseller. HBO Productions purchased the television rights for the series. It attained an exceptionally broad international fan base, and also won 26 Primetime Emmy Awards.
The following names were all late bloomers in their careers and they are the very proof that no STAN LEE & JACK KIRBY: Creators of Marvel matter what your age, success goals should not be Universe (Superman, X-Men) pursued in tight deadlines. When Stan Lee first drew his comics, ‘The Fantastic
Four’, he was shy of his 40th birthday. Jack Kirby was 43 when he created the highly successful superhero Streep’s love for acting showed while she was still ‘Captain America’. Together, they led the expansion in high school. She appeared in numerous school of the legendary Marvel Universe from a small plays, went to Yale School of Drama and took part in division of a publishing house to a large multimedia numerous theatre productions in Broadway. In her corporation. This eventually led to the creation of late twenties, she auditioned for ‘King Kong’. The Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron-Man, Thor, the X-Men and producer Dino De Laurentiis stated that she was too many other fictional characters. unattractive for the role. Few years later, while Streep was in her thirties, she was spotted by Robert De Niro SUSAN BOYLE: A Scottish Singer who suggested her for a role in his movie ‘The Deep Susan Magdalane Boyle came to the hall of fame Hunter’. Streep is now considered by many to be the at 55 when she appeared as a contestant on the greatest film actress of all time. TV program ‘Britain’s Got Talent’. Within nine days of the audition, the video of her performance had GEORGE R. R. MARTIN: Author of the Game been watched over 100 million times. Her first album of Thrones Saga was released in November 2009 and debuted as the Martin began selling short stories professionally in his number one best-selling album on charts around the twenties. His fourth book, “The Armageddon Rag”, globe. was unsuccessful. ‘It essentially destroyed my career
MERYL STREEP: Hollywood Actress
September 2016 Identity 27
fashion fever
Bathina Leg Shine Benefit Hoola Bronzer Benefit
MAKE-UP TIPS:
LIGHT
When you’re tired of the contour and all the clear-cut bronzing lines and you’re looking for a dewy look with a load of shimmer then, you should definitely start strobing. And what is strobing you ask? Well, it’s a fancy term for highlighting and it’s just the kind of look you need to keep that youthful glow.
Kate Nudes Rimmel
But before you jump into the shimmering world of strobing, here are some tips to get you started:
Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting ConcealerMaybelline
Got Myself into a Jambalaya - OPI
1. Prep your skin with moisturizer. For a longwearing dewy glow, you’ll want to start off with a nice moisturizer. For oily skin, have no fear! Oil-free moisturizer will keep your skin replenished and not greasy! 2. Find the highlighter shade that suits your tone. If you’re fair skinned, try a champagne tone. For darker skin, terracotta tones are just the right shade of highlighter you need.
Sheer Light IlluminatorNude By Nature
3. Only use highlighter where the light hits. Apply your highlight on your brow bone, cheekbone, on the bridge of your nose and on your Cupid’s bow.
The Essential Eyeshadow Palette - Clarins
28 Identity September 2016
4. Blend, blend, blend. This tip is pretty obvious, but blending with a brush or damp makeup sponge, is your way to get rid of those harsh makeup application lines.
The smokes palette - Maybelline
Rainy Picadilly L’Oreal
Exaggerate Liquid Eyeliner- Rimmel London
VS
DARK
Chocolate Soleil Too Faced Dark
by Alia El Saady
Bold and dark is the theme of this season. If you really want to make a statement this September, then the dark end of the palette is the way to go. Bold is beautiful; you can’t deny that. And if you’re a night crawler and adore the night life, then darker tones are your friend and to couple any bold look, a smokey eye is a staple make-up technique. So here are some tips to get that rockin’ smokey eye look:
Volum’Express Pumped Up! Maybelline
Sin - Mac
1. Blend with an unused brush. If you want a well blended smoked out effect, an unused brush helps you get the look you need. 2. Use a primer. Primers will give your skin a smooth base, that’s useful when you start blending.
Boing Concealer Benefit
Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil - The Body Shop
3. Keep eyeliner handy. Couple your smokey eye look by lining your top/ bottom lashline and your water line as well. 4. Lots of lashes! Apply mascara to the roots and wiggle upwards to give extra volume to your lashes. September 2016 Identity 29
fashion fever
7
TOP FW’16 TRENDS by Nahed Kazziha
Summer is officially over. And while you are still clamouring for a couple of extra beach days before finally admitting defeat, we will be keeping an eye out for what to wear. This fall season spans a whole gamut of trends galore, reading much like a hysterical Hollywood film- unlikely pairings, epic pieces, revamped styles and looks from far-away lands. Take a look at what Fall/Winter has in store for us this coming seasons.
Chanel FW16
1. Camelot Ellery FW16
Gucci FW16
Guinevere and her round table ain’t got nothing on you. Medieval-inspired gowns that transcend legends and land straight on the runway are what it’s all about. Regal sleeves, intricate trimmings and luxe fabrics will upgrade your evening wear from regular to regal.
30 Identity September 2016
Erdem FW16
Alexander McQueen FW16
Paco Rabanne FW16
2. Chinoiserie
A Detacher FW16
3. Capelets Christian Dior FW16
Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini FW16
The runway’s interpretation of the exotic orient is one stereotype we would love to play into! Intricately woven designs in vibrant palettes engulf this season’s silhouettes, complete with Mandarin collars and piping. Chinoiserie has all the fix-ins you need to complete a dynastic fashion cycle this fall.
A distinct counter-reaction to the cold shoulder look sported for Spring/Summer. It has all the genius of drawing attention to shapely shoulders without exposing them to frosty temperatures. The versatility of outerwear’s MVP for the season is undeniable and can be worn over your cardigan, coat or dress. September 2016 Identity 31
fashion fever Balenciaga FW16
4. Reworked Denim Esteban Cortazar FW16
Rag & Bone FW16
Frayed denim is still the staple jean of the generation. This season’s denim in taking the cut outs and cut offs and sewing them back together, creating intriguingly stitched silhouettes. Crops and jackets form the cornerstone of this jagged jeans movement that has taken the runway and street style by storm.
Sies Marjan FW16
5. Pink & Yellow Delpozo FW16
Marissa Webb FW16
The fashion equivalent of an elephant befriending a dog; it is surprising yet endearing. The high contrast look is not for fashion’s faint of heart. Aside from confidence, you will need nature’s own gift of heavily contrasted colouring to pull this off. 32 Identity September 2016
Vetements FW16
Vanessa Seward FW16
Haider Ackermann FW16
6. Pantsuit
Monse FW16
7. Velvet Prada FW16
Haider Ackermann FW16
Previously borrowed from the boys, women in power have repurposed the pantsuit and made it a pillar of power dressing. Though arguably a favourite among female politicians, the runway adds a whimsical flare to traditional business wear, using funky trimming and textured fabrics.
Fashion’s antidote to winter flannel is all but dull. Velvet sheen is superbly reflected off of jeweltoned garments that stand out in the darkest of winter nights. Velvet has taken over everything from outerwear to evening wear, so rest assured that your suave wardrobe addition can do no wrong. September 2016 Identity 33
sunny daze fashion fever
SLAYING CLOTHES NOT THE ENVIRONMENT! by Nahed Kazziha
In case you have not heard of Eco Fashion before, it involves the production of fashion garments through sustainable design methods, which in turn help decrease the carbon footprint. So, in a world of fast food and fast fashion, how easy is it to get your hands on trendy, fair and ecofriendly clothes? Runway and high street alike are channeling their creative juices into shockingly desirable pret-a-porter, readily available to the trend conscious. 34 Identity September 2016
By Honest As the name suggests, the Company was launched in 2012 by award-winning designer and art director, Bruno Pieters, and is based out of Antwerp, Belgium. The Company pretty much lives by the motto “honesty is the best policy” citing all materials and efforts that go into the making of each individual garment, including its respective carbon footprint. The core belief is that customers deserve to be informed, a key right many consumers demand in other industries. The case that all living beings must be respected is well made by Pieters and his team, who produce everything from clothes and bags to jewellery and shoes while maintaining a “respect for all living beings.”
H&M
Stella McCartney
Adding their voice to the eco fashion chorus is none other than high street retailer H&M. As Scandinavian as it gets, the corporation issues a sustainability report to its investors tracking material composition, wages and labor conditions, animal welfare, garment recycling and water resource reduction. Not to mention its covet-worthy line appropriately christened H&M Conscious, offering clothes and cosmetics that will leave your conscience guilt-free. The retailer, which is well-known for providing fast and on-point trends, has even managed to nab the gorgeous Olivia Wilde as the Conscious brand ambassador, leaving customers little to no reason to buy a regular white tee from their store when they can purchase a feel good sustainable model instead.
A prominent advocate for environmentally responsible fashion and is widely regarded as a pioneer in the sustainable fashion industry. Take the cult classic accessory, the Falabella handbag, a skillfully architected vegan tote (vegan really means fake leather in this case, but just look at this masterpiece). In one of her interviews, the daughter of the animal rights activists once mentioned “I design clothes that are meant to last. I believe in creating pieces that are not going to get burnt, that are not going to landfills and that are not going to damage the environment.”
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fashion fever
FASHION FIT by Nahed Kazziha
Nowadays, thanks to the advent of the fashion cult sweating out all over the world, fitness has become part of an integral healthy and trendy lifestyle. Invest in some key workout pieces to help you stay motivated while benefitting from the best cost per wear. Your workout gear will actually pay for itself. So, get ready to sweat while still looking hot!
RINGMASTER
Channel your inner Laila Ali and demonstrate your greatness. Floating like a butterfly has never been so easy when you dress like a champion.
DANCING QUEEN
Stay sharp and sur pointe at dance training. Embrace the all in one and minimal dancewear pieces that will keep you focused on your movement rather than wardrobe malfunctions.
PILATES AFFICIONADO
Reward your core with some whimsical designs to keep you motivated and visualizing those long, lean muscles. Your body will thank you. 36 Identity September 2016
YOGA BUNNY
Eat, Pray, Love- but look good while doing it! No need to compromise on your peace of mind and slip into some yoga gear that is as dynamic as your flow.
BOOTCAMPER You may be a beast at bootcamp, but you can still be the belle of the ball (or crossfit box). Keep your shoes lightweight to ensure maximum agility and layer like a pro.
GRAND SLAMMER
Take control of the court, clay or grass, in classy and crisp tennis ensembles. Tennis whites will have you ready for Wimbledon in no time, worst case, as a spectator.
ROAD RUNNER
It is just you and the road when you are running with the wind. Wick off the sweat in agile fibers and brighten up your day with some fun colors. And of course, the right trainers!
September 2016 Identity 37
38 Identity September 2016
M
YSTERIOUS
I
NTRIGUE
Mirana Tera is an up and coming fashion designer with geometric architecture inspired couture. Using her intricate craftsmanship to produce creative designs and with her different spin on fashion and dresses she is sure to make a mark in the fashion world. Designer: MIRANA TERA, Photographer: Amina Zaher, Model: LEILA EL MASSRI, Stylist: HUSSY ELCELIEMY, MUA: DIANA HARBY, Hair: RAFI TOMA, Location: VILLA BELLE EPOQUE September 2016 Identity 39
mysterious intrigue
40 Identity September 2016
September 2016 Identity 41
mysterious intrigue 1- WHAT WAS THE REASON FOR YOUR INTEREST IN FASHION? AND IN LATER BECOMING A DESIGNER? I don’t know the exact reason, but since I was very young I used to draw random stuff. At the age of 8, I started drawing dresses and outfits and made tiny clothes for my dolls. I loved the idea of having endless choices of clothes, knowing that I can make any piece of clothing I want. When I grew a bit older, I started considering studying fashion design. I took up a mini diploma at Career Gates when I was still studying pharmacy at the German University, but it just wasn’t enough for me. This is when I heard about the Italian Fashion Academy in Cairo and enrolled in a two year course there.
I was blessed with having parents who pushed me to complete my diploma and cheered for me all the way.
Well, honestly there are a lot of them and they’re constantly changing. Right now, it’s mainly Ashi studio, Krikor Jabotian, Delpozo, and Balmain. I love how their designs are edgy and different yet wearable. However, I still have other designers that I really love.
8- WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF THE PROCESS WHEN CREATING A DRESS? (DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION ETC?)
6- OF YOUR DESIGNS, WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE? The cropped top with small petals on the waist and the silver dress with petals are my favourite two, although honestly, I have a soft spot for every single piece I created. 7- WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE PROCESS WHEN CREATING A DRESS (DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION ETC.)?
I love every single stage of the process. From creating a mood board, designing, drawing, picking the fabrics, 2- WHICH DESIGNER OR DESIGNS INSPIRE YOU to pattern making, cutting the fabric and sewing. THE MOST?
3- WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR INSPIRATIONS FOR YOUR OWN DESIGNS?
Understanding the client’s taste and trying to design a piece that suits their taste, bearing in mind their body shape, is not an easy task but I love it. Also, making the design come true, especially when it’s not mainstream, is sometimes challenging.
Everywhere. Buildings, nature, people, clothes from 9- IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY CELEBRITY WEAR different eras and so on. ONE OF YOUR DESIGNS, WHO WOULD IT BE? AND WOULD THEY WEAR SOMETHING YOU’VE ALREADY DESIGNED OR SOMETHING ENTIRELY 4- WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING DESIGN NEW? YOU EVER HAD TO WORK ON? In general, the women I like to dress are the daring The designs in my latest collection were very and edgy yet feminine ones, the ones who’d take challenging. They included an architectural element risks even when it comes to what they wear. which was hard for me to bring out. But after some If we’re talking about Arab celebrities, I’d love to trial and error, I managed to do it. It always feels dress Cyrine abdelnour, Amina Khalil, Dorra and more rewarding after finishing backbreaker designs. Kinda Aloush. I also love Scarlett Johansson. I like the fact that her body is realistic; she’s not too skinny. I’d love to create a customized piece for her. I’d also love 5- WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU’D WISH PEOPLE to dress Angelina Jolie. HAD TOLD YOU ABOUT STARTING IN FASHION? 10- ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS? Actually, I’ve been told a lot of things. “It’s not easy Definitely! We’re starting to work soon on the next as it seems, people will consider you a seamstress collection, Spring Summer 2017. not a fashion designer and stuff like that.” However, 42 Identity September 2016
September 2016 Identity 43
mysterious intrigue
44 Identity September 2016
September 2016 Identity 45
advice guru
MARRIED TO A STRANGER by Marwa Rakha 46 Identity September 2016
Dear Marwa,
spiritual essence suffered – and is still suffering.
I am a 46-year-old woman who is suffering from estrangement in my relationship with my husband of 20 years. I have been fighting the urge to leave. I have lost all feelings of joy. I feel he is part of my life, like my family, but no jest of enjoying life or love together. He’s always depressed and complaining of things. I feel life has taken its toll on me and that I’m nearing my end. I’m afraid of illness, old age and death. They have become the main things controlling my life. I lost the urge of seeking happiness after so many tragedies that happened in my life. Those require a whole book to narrate. I’m confused and realize that it’s probably early menopause, but I’m unable to kindle any kind of feelings especially that he is reluctant to do anything about it and complaining that I have changed into an aggressive person. He is reluctant to change his flaws (I don’t know if he even acknowledges them). What can I do?
We get ill when we mistreat ourselves: mind, body, and soul. If you find yourself guilty of ill thoughts, fear, negativity and mental stress, then you are making yourself ill. If you find yourself guilty of eating the wrong foods, drinking unnourishing beverages and smoking sickening pollutants, then you are making yourself ill. If you find yourself unable to love, to embrace, to accept and to nurture your soul, then you are again making yourself ill. There has been a lot of research nowadays linking lack of exposure to the sun to vitamin D deficiency, which leads to illness of the mind, the body and the soul – get your vitamin D level tested.
Dear Divine Woman, Upon reading your message, I was more concerned about you as a person and your outlook on life than about your marriage and feelings of estrangement. This is why I intentionally decided to address you as “Divine Woman”. This is the fact that sunk underneath the hardships you faced during your 46 years of life.
As for your fear of old age, ancient wisdom has taught us that with old age, comes the beauty of wisdom, experience and peace. The only problem with the ancient tutoring is that women now cling to youth more than they should; man-made fairy tales have linked aging face and greying hair to witches, hags and evil mothers-in-law. Think of yourself as a graceful being enjoying the different phases and stages of life, think of life as a vast infinite sea and think of yourself as a divine creature gliding over its surface without ever falling under, stumbling or drowning …. Glide my dear … glide gracefully towards the horizon where we will all meet our end.
Do not fear death and think of all the beautiful memories you have created, and will continue to In ancient times, men were infatuated with women create, until you set into the horizon like all the and they looked upon them as the essence of life ancient divine goddesses. Focus on a legacy of and the extension of divinity. They stood perplexed memories and love and consume yourself creating in front of their ability to express their emotions, to them. The only thing that ceases to be upon death is nurture one another, to grow babies in their wombs, our flesh but our thoughts and spirits live on through to deliver babies out of their bodies and to nurture our words, actions and the lives we touched. their offspring with liquid love from their breasts. They decided that all gods above and below were As for your husband, I cannot advise you on whether women: the goddess of the sky, the goddess of the to stay or leave. Maybe after you start your own sea, the goddess of fertility, the goddess of justice, journey of restoring your divine self, you will come truth, and wisdom, and many more goddesses back, look at him and fall in love with him all over which were created and reverenced over the years – again. Maybe you will come back after making peace thousands of years. with life and death and what’s in between, and decide that the two of you need to end your physical bond as Today, many women forget their legacy of strength a married couple but continue to be friends. Maybe and wisdom and give in to social pressures and you would decide that you want to turn this page and expectation, which by time erode the divinity within start a new one. You never know what awaits you at them. This is what happened to you! This is why you the end of the journey of self-discovery and you will are no longer happy! You got caught up in the web- never find out, if you do not start. like details of the physical aspects of life that your
young at heart
WHY LIFE BEGINS AT
40
by Alia El Saady
The tell-tale phrase: “Youth is wasted on the young “comes to mind when we’re told to compare between old age and youth. With age comes wisdom, an increased confidence boost and an understanding not only of one’s body, but also the way that body interacts with the world around it. No longer are you bound by societal restrictions that dictate how you’re supposed to look and neither are you past your prime. 48 Identity September 2016
From birth to the age of twenty-one, we are busy growing up. It’s a period of pleasant confusion, but can also be one that’s riddled with irresponsibility and leaning on our parents for support. Onwards from that period, we find ourselves busy making a living rather than really living. Many young people believe that as one grows older, muscles weaken, eyes grow dim, that hearing fails and reason totters. But, that is hardly the case. Here are just a few reasons why life begins at the ripe age of 40:
and experience you have at this age is substantially different than when you first entered the job market. You’re a lot more skilled than you were before, and with that comes a much more permanent, settled and secure job placement. INCREASED CONFIDENCE
At 18, you were surrounded by images that suggested you had to be a certain weight or a have certain image. All the models on the billboard ads you saw were roughly the same age you were, whether you TIME SLOWS DOWN meant to or not, you emulated their image. Try as you might have, you could never really get that perfect Throughout your life, you’ve been through a lot of body that you saw displayed on magazine covers. It hectic moments. You’ve gone to school, worked, built was unattainable and was subconsciously itching at a family and now you’ve got the time to really focus the back of your mind. But now as you grow older on yourself and the things that you truly enjoy doing. and reach the age of 40, you are no longer bound Your time in the yesteryears was all in service to this by these images. For one thing, they don’t apply to day when you find the leisure to do the things that you as they once might have, but also because of the you like to do at the prime age of 40. You’re happy fact that you realize that these beauty constructs are that the time has come for you to truly settle and unreal. They really have no say at what happens when enjoy work, family and friends away from the hustle you’re 40 when your skin isn’t as taut as it used to be. and bustle of your hectic past. Your youth was a good time for exerting yourself out to get things done, but CERTAINTY now you can take it easy and let time pass slower while enjoying the company of friends, family and Anyone who went through the turbulent period of even co-workers. This is a great time to put things adolescence knows that it’s flooded with lack of into perspective and start getting reacquainted with certainty and feelings of anxiety towards the future. yourself to find out what it is you really like to do After that time, you’re likely to be struggling with and what you’ve missed doing while you’ve toiled either a quarter life crisis or a mid life one. But once away behind a desk for many years. If you have an you’re done with all that, you enter the period of appreciation for music, now is a great time to start the most certainty in your life. It is a time when you taking up an instrument. If you’ve found that your can truly say that you know where you want to be, wanderlust has built up over the years, now is the and what you want to do with your life. Life isn’t as time to plan a trip and start plane hopping or back daunting as before. You have a sense of clarity amidst packing across whichever continent you please. The all the uncertainty you’ve gone through. People come world was made for the taking, especially at your age. to you for advice, and you actually know what to tell them because you’ve been through it all, or most BRAIN VS. BRAWN of it. You’re a black belt in this thing called life, and you’ve got four decades under your belt to prove it! At a younger age, you’re working your butt off to make a living and making money for yourself. As you get older, you find a way to work efficiently. You’re So whether you’ve toiled behind a desk before getting not solely operating on horsepower, but on brain to that job security many yearn for, or you’ve had power as well. You figure out a way to do job tasks many a time feeling insecure in front of the mirror quicker and with minimum effort exertion. You’re a before you could truly learn to love what was on the lot smarter about your job and know that stressing other side of it, you need to acknowledge that you’re yourself out will just be a waste of time; you keep here. You made it to 40, and no amount of uncertainty your cool on the job so that you’re working a lot more or time is going to bring you down, because life begins effectively than younger employees. The job security at 40 and no one can say otherwise!
young at heart
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HEART AND SOUL FOREVER YOUNG by Amina Moustapha
The biological clock will never stop ticking; it will keep rushing us carelessly and arrogantly into the different stages of life without waiting for our permission. With every passing year added to our lives, we are compelled to mature into adults who bear sanity while juggling to-do lists as long as the sun shines in the sky. But who says that getting older means straying away from a youthful heart? Our heart and soul are the luckiest on our ride; years cannot play their game with them unless you gave them a carte blanche to do so. If you didn’t permit that, your heart and your soul can enjoy life along with the many blessings that come your way, fresh and vigorous. 50 Identity September 2016
Here is how you keep your heart and soul young far more contagious than any cough, sniffle or sneeze. forever: Radiate with positive energy through your smile to everyone around you. Humour lightens your burdens,
DON’T ACT YOUR AGE, ACT LIKE YOURSELF inspires hopes, connects you to others and keeps you Some people let a happy moment slip through their hands, like passing up chances to have their bestloved ice cream cone or swing on the swings in the park on a gorgeous day, simply because they don’t think it’s how an adult should act. Those people will go home with their heartstrings tugging them back for a small ounce of carefree fun. Don’t do that. Let your wings fly whether they’re seventeen or seventy years old, and land you wherever your soul desires. A number shouldn’t make you place limitations on your heart’s yearnings. Leave the ageists’ words at the back of your head. You don’t have to act your age, but you do have to respect it. You can’t get the same results in your fifties that you got in your twenties. In fact, you can’t get the same result at the age of 50 that you got at 45. That’s how life works, but why should that stop you from diving into your youthful heart caring? Turn back and have that ice cream.
grounded, focused and alert.
GO AFTER YOU PASSION
Routine, boredom and indifference are the worst enemies you can ever fight, and the strongest weapon you can have to beat them is your passion. When they say follow your passion because it knows the way, they weren’t talking in vain. Passion yields eagerness, owning to the fact that when you chase a dream, you spend all your energy to make it come true. Eagerness is the best trait of youth; it makes your heart pulse with enthusiasm, teaming up with your soul and rushing you while saying get-up-and-go. And when both of them look up to find their desire in the making, they won’t dare age.
TAKE PLEASURE IN THE NATURE AND THE OUTDOORS Most probably you’ve already experienced this.
KEEP EXPLORING AND EXPERIENCING THE If you’re stressed out at home or in the office, it’s WORLD amazing what a quick walk outside can do for you. It’s As long as there are places in this world where you haven’t set foot yet, then you’re still so green my friend. Don’t ever underestimate the welfare and satisfaction travelling and exploring the world might get you. Experiencing new places is a refreshing chance to meet new people from completely new cultures and perspectives than yours. Travelling enables you to explore the unseen wonders of the world. It’s a golden chance to run into new adventures beyond your imagination, ones that will stimulate your heart and make your soul feel as young as ever. Don’t miss any chance that can add new facets to the book of your life. Life offers so many joys for you to grab. If you let them pass, it will become part of the past and you may end up feeling sorry. Hang on to those chances. And that’s how you live a life you will remember.
ALWAYS FLASH A SMILE AND SHARE A LAUGH Laughing and smiling are positive gestures that add fun to everything around us, but that’s not only why you should let humour through your door. Laughing is the best medicine for your health; it is a powerful antidote to stress, pain and conflict. Nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind, heart and body back into balance than a good laugh. Also, humor is infectious. The sound of roaring laughter is
not a coincidence! Sunshine and fresh air rejuvenate the body and boost the mood. Science backs up this theory. A study found that after taking nature walks, people reported lower levels of stress. Another study also reported that taking a walk in a green area can put the brain in a meditative state. Add a few trees in the mix and you’ll feel even better. What if this was your way of life? Imagine what getting rid everyday of the stress that burdens you will do to you. Your soul will be as light as a feather.
GIVE UP ON GRUMBLING AND COMPLAINING Expressing dissatisfaction and annoyance about anything and everything in your life is similar to a machine that throws fireballs and might explode any minute; it is filled with fire and will burn anyone close to it. I am not saying you shouldn’t express your feelings. You definitely should because bottling them up is also a path to exploding, but you should keep an eye to the fine line between voicing your emotions and complaining. Complaining means you’re looking back at what is past tense now, which will make you feel weary and old. Learn to let go and move on; turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to all the flaws in the world so that you can see the beauty despite the imperfections. Only then, your heart and soul will stay forever young. September 2016 Identity 51
young at heart
TAKING THINGS EASY by Alia El Saady
52 Identity September 2016
Life gets stressful as we get older. We never actually realize the stresses it imposes on us and the amount of tension we build up over time. We’re either too engrossed in work, too stressed out about life in particular or too tired with everything else that we forget to press pause on life’s stresses and play on all the things we truly enjoyed before things got so hectic. Here are just a few things we need to do to relieve ourselves from life’s worries and take it easy.
TRAVEL
face them head on, rather than bottling them up Travel has always been one of the best distressing inside and having them project later on in different techniques. The idea that a person can go on holiday situations. and simply vacate their life of all the worries that seemed to overwhelm it is not a fairly new one. But it MASSAGE does need to be reiterated, because most times all we Another way to de-stress is through a massage. Take need is a change of scenery to help us unwind. If you a load off and have a spa day; immerse yourself in think your work can’t stand to lose you for a week or essential aromatic oils. After an indulgent afternoon, two, take a few days off and travel locally. There are you’ll realize that there is a lot of tension held in your a lot of beautiful holiday destinations across Egypt joints and that you should make a point to relieve it that should definitely do the trick. If you’ve got a lot as periodically as possible. It’s said that most people of time on your hands, then why not see the world, hold tension in their shoulder and neck without realizing. The best way to get rid of that tension is what’s keeping you? through a deep tissue massage that is sure to make you feel good as new. READING A lot of people will recommend taking up a hobby, but if you really want an enriching exercise, then CONVERSATION reading is the best thing to do. For one thing, you can Nothing is as natural a stress reliever as a good get a book, buy a magazine or read an article about conversation. Communication is the best way for any topic that interests you. For another, reading is you to let out all the things that you’re bottling a truly relaxing practice which creates an immersive inside of you. One way to really take it easy is to experience that I would venture to say television and openly communicate all the things that are bothering cinema hasn’t succeeded in creating. All you have to you. Instead of worrying about something, have a do to travel to a whole other world is pick up a book; conversation about it, either with a licensed therapist or a friend or a family member. Openly discussing it’s that easy. the things that cause you to worry is the first step to getting them out of your mind. Make sure you YOGA Yoga is one of those activities that work on relaxing find someone with an open ear and good listening you and your muscles while strengthening them and skills who’s willing to engage with your problems increasing your flexibility. It also has the ability to and empathise. At the end of the day, humans are keep you young; check out our article on anti-aging empathic creatures and all we really need is a good yoga poses for more info. The practice of yoga is listener to validate how we feel. So before you decentred primarily on deep breathing exercises which stress, make sure you discuss! are the core of getting your body to relieve tension.
LAUGHTER
ALONE TIME
Despite the importance of good conversation in your life, you need to realise the importance of being alone. Solitude is not something to fear and sometimes the most relieving sound is the sound of silence. Whatever you choose to do with your alone time, make sure it’s something that will recharge you and make you want to spend time with people afterwards! Sometimes, we get so engrossed in our solitude that we forget the importance of the company of others. Before you decide to become a hermit, limit your alone time, just enough to make BOXING Why not release some tension with an activity that you feel relaxed, but not enough to turn you off from allows you to hit things! It’s a way for you to let off people completely. some steam and let out any negative feelings you might have. Channelling your anger is a perfect way for you to really get in touch with your emotions and It’s true what they say about laughter being the best medicine; it can cure anything and has been known to be a natural tension reliever. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll watch a comedy film or spare an evening to share some laughs and joke around with family and friends, especially since it’s known to be contagious. Whatever it takes to get that smile on your face, just do it!
September 2016 Identity 53
young at heart
word from the wise:
WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER GIVE UP
S
by Amina Moustapha
ometimes, we give up before we actually start doing something new because it scares us. Sometimes, we surrender just before making this huge breakthrough to success owning to the fact that there is no guarantee we will thrive. If only we knew someone who knows a little bit extra about life who can guide us!
endurance to hold our ground against the challenges and obstacles we face. So what are you saving these staying powers for? You can never be a part of something great, if you don’t get your feet wet and migrate out of your comfort zone. To open up the realm of immense possibilities, you must be stretched. You must run the risk and attempt new things. The greatest regrets most of us have are the regrets of what we failed to try, not what we tried and failed, because even failing is a lesson you shouldn’t miss. And whenever you have cold feet, remember Audrey Hepburn’s words “Nothing is impossible; the word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”
In excess of the 1.5 million years of human existence, it is only for about the past 200 years that people have gone to anyone other than local elders for resolutions to life’s dilemmas. Anthropologists state that in prehistoric times, the sageness of older people was a key to human survival. Consulting the greybeards is really a 2. NEVER HOPE FOR IT MORE THAN YOU “natural” thing for us to do. WORK FOR IT Any human being, no matter how pessimistic he is, wishes to have a successful happy life. The older generation has stolen a march on the younger one when it comes to this dream; everything we have been through has been inked in their story. Years might slip us away from our haleness and fine fettle, but in return, they pay us back in wisdom. For this reason, the best guidance young people will ever wish to have is from those who preceded them in that game called “life”.
HERE IS WHY THE OLD-TIMERS THINK YOU SHOULD NEVER GIVE UP: 1. ANYTHING UNATTEMPTED REMAINS IMPOSSIBLE
Dreams, hopes, wishes…who knows how we would have survived without these motives! We would be lost; they’re our compasses that we turn to whenever we go off our track. But a compass doesn’t get you where you want; it just shows you the way. It’s your feet and each step forward that will take you there. If you leave dreams to put everything together, then you better forget about it. Our dreams come and go with the breeze, minute by minute. There is a reason why sweat is always mentioned whenever we talk about great achievements; such things demand effort and labour. So if you want something, it should be yours for grab. Move toward it and keep going until you hit your gold mine! Don’t save keep any energy in reserve, and throw your hat in the ring.
3. THIS WAS DONE BEFORE
We are all driven by that sense of purpose. We’re There is nothing new under the sun. Every idea is blessed with an emotional, mental and spiritual generated by another idea, every story is inspired by 54 Identity September 2016
4. THE FELLOWSHIP OF SUCCESS WILL HAVE YOUR BACK
another story, every project is based on the research another project had put together. That’s how life works, and once in a blue moon, a JK Rowling will pop a total new thing out of the air, and even then you will notice that another thing was the reason the fire had caught and brought Harry Potter to us. So what are your goals? There must be someone who has succeeded before at what you’re trying to achieve now. Even if there was only one person in the world who has done what you want to do, it tells you only one thing. Whatever your goal is, it’s reachable. If your goal is crazy and totally shocking according to our standards, remember that a ‘school of magic’ wasn’t something we would have swallowed easily before Rowling made it happen.
We don’t have any special super powers; we are humans. It’s quite expected that in the middle of the road or even by the end of it, you will get tired and look upon you and feel that the end line is way too far. That’s when your friends’ role comes to the table. Your fellows are your power bank; recharging your battery is their duty. You should do the same for them when they’re in your shoes. For that reason, surround yourself with a circle of people who share the same interests, goals and beliefs as you. Sometimes, this common passion might place you in competition, but there is nothing wrong with that. Competition motivates us and brings out the best in us.
5. YOU ARE SO CLOSE
We often give up far too soon. We can’t see what the future holds for us, but we sure can keep striving towards our dreams. If only you knew how close you were! If only you knew what the impact would be for one more phone-call, one more interview and just one more late night working on your passion. Always keep in mind that each step forward is a step closer to your goal. Persistence is something that can only be learned through hardships, but it will get you exactly where you want. If you could achieve your aims simply by wishing for them, life would be very easy. Still, who wants an easy life? It’s boring! September 2016 Identity 55
young at heart
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE ON HOW TO DEAL WITH MENOPAUSE by Nuha Elzubeir
For a good 40 years of a woman’s life, periods become one of the worst struggles. Cramps, heavy flow, trying out failed sanitary products, ruined vacations etc. But despite the nightmare that comes with menstruation, it’s important in that it signifies womanhood and fertility, which in turn symbolizes youth. It’s a scary thought thinking that such a huge change might be happening to our bodies, and irreversibly so. What makes it worse is the stigma surrounding hitting menopause - women are considered “dried up” and “past it” because they can no longer fulfil society’s requirement of them to reproduce. It makes perfect sense for women who are approaching menopause to fear this change, although it 56 Identity September 2016
warrants no worry. The pharmaceutical industry came up with a pill, HRT, an ‘elixir of youth’ that somehow combats menopause and stops it. Other ‘natural’ remedies surfaced the market. Trying to stop that which is natural is the epitome of artificial. Other than the many societal pressures women in their 40’s face as menopause gets closer, the symptoms of the process can be inconvenient and discomforting on the body. Many women experience hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, heavy flow and the infamous hot flashes. There are many ways women can cope better with these symptoms and reduce the stresses that come with the ‘M’ word.
NUTRITION Eating right is the oldest trick in the books. Making sure your food has all the nutrients you need and taking the supplements necessary is essential for your general health. The healthier your body, the easier the menopausal process will be for you. EXERCISE AND YOGA More on general physical health, making sure you regularly exercise helps regulate your hormones, reducing hormonal imbalances and making for a generally gradual and smooth sailing process. Exercising regularly has many benefits to women going through the transition because it reduces the mood swings, controls hot flashes and aids in strengthening bones. To deal with the emotional stresses of menopause, joining a yoga class will be of utmost benefit because it helps bridge the gap between the mind and the body, granting you with peace of mind and reducing general anxiety levels. If you don’t want to go to a class, there’s an article written by Alia El Saady on the many Yoga poses you can try at home. TAKE CALCIUM On the subject of bone strength, because women going through menopause lose a lot of bone mass, taking Calcium supplements and including Calcium in your diet (such as drinking milk for instance), certainly helps a lot with maintaining physical strength. Ultimately, the stronger our body is, the better equipped it is to cope with the changes thrown at it.
of asking for help, and definitely don’t be afraid of seeing a therapist. Anti-depressants may or may not be needed, but it’s an option you can explore if you feel that your stress levels are high. ACUPUNCTURE - HOT FLASHES One of the ways to deal with hot flashes, which can be intolerably uncomfortable for many, is acupuncture. Acupuncture is a Chinese method of healing that can help with inner peace and tranquility and is recognised as an effective way to deal with the symptoms of menopause by both the WHO and the National Institute of Health in the U.S. TAKE OMEGA 3 Omega 3 has fatty acids that not only work to reduce heart diseases, but also act as a mood stabiliser. Women going through menopause may find mood swings to be disturbing for them, and for the people around them, and let’s face it, not everyone may be willing to deal with your mood swings so a mood stabiliser is always a great option. You can find Omega 3 in fish like tuna but also in Flaxseed, which also helps with hot flashes and the dreaded vaginal dryness. USE VAGINAL MOISTURISER One of the symptoms of menopause that some women experience is dryness in the nether region, which can make sex uncomfortable. This is super easy to fix, because any water-based vaginal moisturiser will fix the problem.
STAY INTIMATE A common misconception associated with menopause is a decrease in sex drive and a decrease in orgasms - both absolutely inaccurate. With the above remedies that help combat vaginal dryness, there is no reason why menopausal women should stop getting intimate with their partners. On the contrary, it helps a lot in keeping you feeling young EMOTIONAL WELLNESS = PHYSICAL and relieving your stress. A study about women’s HEALTH sex drive after menopause actually showed that 2/3 It’s crucial to realise that your mind and your body of women found no change in their sex drive, and are eternally connected. Your emotional wellbeing, some even experienced stronger orgasms. Knowing including your stress levels, has great implications that your sexual prowess remains untarnished can on the severity of the symptoms you’ll experience certainly help you deal with the stigma and fear of during menopause. Some of the ways to keep your growing old that comes with menopause. stress levels in check are to keep a journal, find an outlet for stress and make it part of your daily routine But on a serious note, the process may be tedious, but to take deep breaths. If your stress levels are still you no longer have to worry about monthly periods, an issue, talking to someone about your concerns cramps and those damn vacations that are ruined by and thoughts could be very helpful. Don’t be afraid Aunt Flo.
young at heart
THE FEAR OF GROWING by Nuha Elzubeir
OLD
GERASCOPHOBIA /ger-ask-oh-fobya/ noun An impending fear of growing old. Symptoms include panic, anxiety, dread, or terror at the thought of getting old and extreme avoidance measures taken against ageing. Did you ever feel a lump in your throat, as your birthday was approaching close? Or panicked at the thought of no longer being young and beautiful? Has the thought of getting a single white hair, or a wrinkle or two, freaked you out beyond return? Is turning into the big three-0 the scariest horror story you’ve ever heard, and if you’ve already turned 30, has that always haunted you? Do you continuously lie about your age because if you don’t say it, it won’t be real? Even those as young as 20, considerably at the prime of their lives, are plagued with this growing tumour of fear at the mere thought of getting older, of not staying young forever, of not being able to stop the clock from ticking, and of never being able to reverse the effects of old-age.
pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, arthritis, poor eyesight and many more come with old age, and people are aware of that. This is a rational fear and the only thing we can do is be as healthy as possible from as young as possible.
REALIZING YOU AREN’T WHERE YOU WANT TO BE – When you’re 20, 30 seems so far away, and
when you get to it, 40 seems a century away. This makes it easier for us to set goals and envision where we want to be in our lives. The problem is, the older we get, the more we realize we aren’t where we thought we’d be and that our dreams and ambitions may never come true. Of course, that doesn’t take away from the achievements each one of us has been able to accomplish and the life we’ve lived, but it does take its toll on you.
These fears don’t stem from nothing and aren’t completely irrational. There are so many reasons FEAR OF MAKING MISTAKES – When we’re why people fear growing old: still young, mistakes made are lessons learned,
but as we grow older, we cannot afford to make UNDESIRABILITY – As the physical imprints of mistakes anymore. Fearing those mistakes makes us growing start to become more visible on your body, walk on the fence, not really living to the fullest, in your fears become more urgent that you won’t be hopes of staying away from any possible mistakes. as attractive as you were, that these wrinkles on The consequences of a mistake as we get older your face, or the grey hairs on your head, make you are far more severe than when we are still young, any less who you are. Even romantic songs stress on and relatively free. This comes in with the fear whether their lover will still love them when they’re of responsibilities. The reason we can’t afford no longer young and beautiful. Undeniably, the mistakes as we get older is because the basket of beauty industry hasn’t been kind to women with any responsibilities we carry are filled to the max, but are signs of growing old and some have started using still pretty empty when we are young. anti-ageing beauty products as early as 20, so there’s no surprise there. I can write chapters on how your BEING ALONE – Especially in a culture where being wrinkles and grey hairs reflect a life lived, and should called a spinster starts at your late 20s, and your be celebrated rather than avoided, but that won’t marriageability as a woman tremendously declines change the feeling many get with every approaching after you turn 30, the fear of being alone for the rest birthday. of your life is a scary one. You start to ask questions like: What if I don’t find a life partner? Should I lower HEALTH COMPLICATIONS – No matter how my standards so I have a life companion? Can I handle healthy your lifestyle is, growing old is also a withering being alone? Even if you do get married, the older process and health complications arise with it. Blood you get, the less people will be around you as your 58 Identity September 2016
SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO COMBAT THESE FEARS? 1. PUT YOURSELF FIRST – This is a general
rule that applies to everyone really, but to combat the fear of losing your beauty and desirability, pamper yourself. There’s nothing wrong with getting frequent facials, getting a blowout every once in a while, and going for a massage whenever you feel like it. Don’t forget to maintain a generally healthy lifestyle as well. We’re not here to tell you what that is, but it should definitely be at the forefront of your concerns. Do what makes you feel good and what makes you feel beautiful, society be damned.
2. KNOW YOU ARE NOT ALONE – No matter how old you are right now, the fear of ageing is very common and many feel exactly the same way you do. It makes it worse when you think you’re isolated; take solace in knowing that your fears aren’t yours alone.
3. VOCALIZE YOUR FEARS – Talk to someone
about it; exchange dialogue. This applies to any problem you may have; don’t ever suppress your worries. Talking about it will help you overcome it by sharing the worry with someone else, and it might even help you understand more where your worries stem from. Sometimes, when we put our worries into words, the thoughts themselves become clearer.
4. GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE – needs for help increase and quite frankly, it’s a scary Refuse the idea that certain activities are for certain prospect. ages. There’s no such thing as being too old to do something. So long as your body allows you to do DEATH – We all know we’re mortal beings, and something, YOU’RE NOT TOO OLD! they always say, “the good die young”, but the idea of growing older inevitably leads to the idea of 5. AND LASTLY, EMBRACE YOUR AGE – Don’t death. Just like the wrinkles and grey hairs, we fear try to lie about your age, but rather take pride in the rather than celebrate. Death isn’t as scary as people years the world has been blessed with your existence. make it out to be, it’s not a loss, but rather an end of something great – the time to celebrate what did Age is just a number, and it only carries the happen rather than mourn the things that didn’t. significance you give it. When we start looking at the years we’ve lived as memories, accomplishments and Although they aren’t completely irrational, the fear lessons, as celebrations, rather than as years lost that of growing older stands in the way of living our we can never look back, we realize, there’s nothing to lives to the fullest, and like every other fear, can be fear. Growing old is what we make of it, and a positive combatted. A very expressive quote on growing old attitude is all it takes to change it from a fear to an by James A. Garfield is: “If wrinkles must be written empowerment tool. upon our brow, let them not be written upon the heart. The spirit should not grow old.” September 2016 Identity 59
editorial SOMABAY OUTSTANDING BY NATURE REDEFINING THE RED SEA INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS Among Hurghada’s glittering string of coastal gems, Somabay sparkles the brightest as the epitome of sun-drenched luxury to sum up the exclusive essence of the Red Sea. Roll-ing out on ten million square meters, this year-round resort destination has miraculously survived the onslaught of package tourism to stand out as a comprehensive community of unrivalled quality. Flowing into a landscape of natural wealthiness, Somabay not only hosts five star luxury hotels, up-scale residential developments and a vibrant marina, but also boasts Gary Player’s signature golf course and the ‘World Luxury Spa’ award winner of the year ‘Cascades Spa & Thalasso’. Somabay’s continued commitment to promote Egypt’s tourism industry has earned it Cityscape’s annual award for the year 2015 as the top ‘Community, Culture & Tourism Project’.
elegance that resound with na-ture all around. Synonymous with world-class hospitality, Somabay has successfully converted La Residence Des Cascades into Westin Hotel to welcome on board an internationally ac-claimed haven of tranquil elegance. It has also signed a ten year contract extension with Robinson’s Club Hotel, renovating more than 300 rooms to invite more travelers to indulge in its exciting five-star resort experience. Ensuring there’s something for every taste, Somabay has launched its stylish SoBar for cocktail enthusiasts, Kempinski’s La Pergola Res-taurant for an exquisite culinary experience, as well as Kempinski’s state-of-the-art Confer-ence Center catering to business-oriented travellers. Adding new colorful experiences to its family of hotels, Somabay is welcoming on board an internationally acclaimed luxury brand. In 2016, Someday has made a name for itself as an exclusive host for Over the past year, Abu Soma Development major interna-tional events including Mercedes Company (ASDC) has recorded sev-eral National Golf Trophy Tournament and the Turkish unprecedented achievements that have Airlines World Cup. strategically transformed the resort’s breathtaking landscape into an international destination Drawing the world’s attention to its natural beauty, of choice. From upgrading visitors’ in-ternet Somabay has brought an abundance of fresh experience to 210 MB to carrying out a 40,000 m2 entertainment experiences to Egypt crowned with extension to the existing marina introducing Soma’s the success of its rock-epic Dire Straits concert vibrant Boulevard. Located only thirty minutes by which made international headlines as the most car from Hurghada International Airport, Somabay exciting concert of the year. Following in its success offers a variety of contemporary living options footsteps, the 7th of October will witness an where it’s Golf/ Marina Apartments and Abu Soma ultimate revival of the Pop era as Jenny Berggren; Reef have swiftly become its sold out successes the voice of Ace of Base and Thomas Anders of . To meet the rising demand for investment Modern Talking will land for the very first time on opportunities, Somabay has also launched an Egypt’s shores. Somabay guar-antees a fun-packed attractive portfolio of residential projects to weekend reunion of pre-and post bon fire parties include Somabreeze, Abu Soma Reef, Wadi Jebal by the beach in a memorable experience you do and Bay West Villas conceiving breathing spaces of not want to miss. 60 Identity September 2016
ORANGE EGYPT Comes With an Entirely Different Summer This Year
With the start of summer holidays, Orange Egypt prepared well to be with its customers in all what matters to them. It started by providing 19 outlets for the whole range of Orange services, selectively chosen for being unique locations during summer along the North Coast including Alexandria, Marsa Matrouh, and Ras El Bar.
With the aim of spreading joy and fun along the North Coast, Orange is celebrating its rebranding this year in a special and unique way through a huge promotional campaign, starting with interactive games and shows, and continuing with valuable gifts in all its outlets. Hence, Orange customers will receive instant gifts when buying either prepaid or postpaid lines. As for ‘Orange Money’ customers, they will receive special surprises and gifts when subscribing to the service or when depositing money. Orange is also offering customers interested in buying the latest phones special discounts of up to EGP 500 on a large collection of state-of-the-art mobile phones.
products.
In the spirit of interactivity with music and art lovers everywhere, Orange is keen on sponsoring many singing concerts and performances throughout the month of August for major superstars such as Amr Diab. His concert is part of the “Efsel” chain of concerts Orange is offering its clients through its “Ghaneely” bouquet. As for beach sports’ lovers, the company is sponsoring four different beaches during the summer so that its clients can enjoy competing and participating in beach volley ball competitions.
Improving young people’s skills received special attention from Orange, as it organized training courses during summer holidays for university students in Egypt. It hosted 89 students from different Egyptian universities to receive the required training in different sectors of the company according to their wishes and their majors. At the end of the training these students will receive a certificate to assure they had completed their As part of its summer activities this year, the training by the company. company is holding a daily raffle draw for its customer for a chance to win smartphones and Orange did not forget to fully cover areas tablets when buying any products from outlets with the most crowds during summer through in this area. For more interaction, customers will the installation of 35 new network and signal receive mugs with their personal photos printed strengthening towers in Alexandria, Agami, and on them as a souvenir from the company when all along the North participating in any of the interactive games the Coast. company is offering or when buying any of its
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editorial
Chef
Phillippe Bossert Revolutionizing Cuisine at the Cairo Marriott Hotel by Alia El Saady
Food is an art, and like all arts it has a message. And who better to deliver that message and take fine dining in Egypt by storm than Chef Philippe Bossert, Executive Chef of the Cairo Marriott Hotel and Omar Khayyam Casino. Bossert has 20 years of culinary experience under his belt and has had the privilege of having his food sampled by political dignitaries worldwide from Vladimir Putin, to Queen Sirikit Kitiyakar of Thailand to Prince Michael of Kent.
the country. “Food is the culture of a country; you can’t change the culture. Egypt has a great history and we take this history and combine it with food”. Bossert is determined to make big changes to the Cairo Marriott Hotel’s menu. With the Bakery, he’s introduced a multitude of different sandwiches from the Mediterranean to the Asian to the French. “I’ve added Le President Cake which is made for the President in France; the guests really like it!” And in the Saraya Gallery restaurant, they’re planning on bringing the French Bistro atmosphere to Cairo. What is exceptionally interesting is how Bossert plans to incorporate ravioli with molokheya and scallops, an inventive combination of tastes and textures in a unique dish that is both French and Egyptian. To the Japanese Restaurant, Torii, Bossert has bold new ideas for the plating where he hopes to add stone plates and augment the overall presentation of the dishes. And as far as fusion cuisine, Bossert definitely doesn’t disappoint: “In Torii, the fusion will be for all of Asia, Thailand and Indonesia, not simply Japan”.
Philippe Bossert is all about promoting original taste using “excellent products and ingredients”. Although Bossert is a student of the Auberge de l’ill that primarily emphasized the nouvelle cuisine style with lighter more delicate dishes that focused on presentation, Bossert’s style is a lot more original and focuses on taste above all else. “I’m a classic chef; I want to see the products and give value to them. We don’t want to confuse guests. The current generation wants to have fresh food. People are turning toward healthier options. I don’t want to have a complicated dish that people don’t understand. People need to understand what they eat,” says Bossert What is particularly refreshing about the Chef is the kind of drive he brings to the kitchen. He And with such an emphasis on the importance of exemplifies passion as the most important thing to taste, Chef Bossert knows what he really needs have when working in a kitchen and says that he to create a flavorful dish. He believes that olive oil tries to benefit those under his tutelage for them to and sea salt are the two products you just can’t “bring those benefits to the guests and their food”. live without, and this is in part due to him having And with such a strong basis, we know that Chef lived in Portugal. Having worked internationally Philippe’s additions to the Cairo Marriott Hotel and in Kempinski Djibouti Palace, he makes a point to Omar Khayyam Casino will be unparalleled. combine his knowledge and expertise along with 62 Identity September 2016
WORLD CLASS PIANIST ZADE DIRANI’S ENTERTAINS THE INAUGURATION OF MOUNTAIN VIEW DIPLO RAS EL HIKMA - NORTH COAST
On the occasion of inaugurating Mountain View Diplo Ras El Hikma in the North Coast, “Mountain View” the Real Estate Development and Investment Company has organized “IL CONCERTO” live performance. The event took place on a Friday afternoon August 5th, in the presence of ambassadors, diplomats and Mountain View clients. The ceremony, which was held at Mountain View Diplo Ras El Hikma North Coast, was attended by 22 ambassadors and diplomats from different countries, including Switzerland, Mexico, Ecuador, Finland, Venezuela, Ukraine, Paraguay, Chile, Japan, Croatia, Senegal, Mexico and Uzbekistan. Furthermore, a large number of socialites joint among which were: politician and TV presenter Moataz Abdel Fattah, Radio presenters; Sherif Nour El Deen and Yara El Gendy, lifestyle TV presenter Sherif Madkour and Egyptian Premier league footballer Muhammad Zidan, as well as a number of celebrities and Mountain View clients. Razan Maghraby, the diva Lebanese artist was the MC. Razan expressed her tremendous admiration for Mountain View’s leading projects in the Egyptian real estate market. She also mentioned with great zeal Mountain View’s ability to meet customers’ needs, as well as their delivery dates. She stressed on how the company wowed the clients with some new and outstanding innovations and she requested from the audience “not to miss the opportunity and hurry up and book a unit- as she will do herself”!
Mountain View’s Founder and Chairman, Eng. Amr Soliman gave his speech highlighting that Mountain View has a clear message which is “to bring happiness to our customers”. He stated that this is Mountain View’s secret of success and competitive standpoint. Eng. Amr Soliman has also honored a number of ambassadors from the Egyptian Youth Diplomats Association founders. Undersecretary of State, Ambassador Ayman Kamal also gave a speech, where he expressed his pride in Mountain View’s project, the company’s ability to achieve in such a short time, and making their innovative dream a beautiful reality. He also added that Mountain View is an Egyptian company that always generates new ideas and significantly supports the growth and development of our national economy. Finally, the ceremony, which was attended by thousands of elite people and the community’s crème de la crème coming in their luxurious stretched limos, was topped by the musical tracks played by the world class musician and composer Zade Dirani. Dirani rocked the event with his vibrant music that appeals to millions of fans worldwide. Dirani also expressed his respect for Mountain View Diplo Ras El Hikma, which -as he mentionedmeasures up to various glamorous projects in Europe and the US. He was also pleased to perform for the first time before Egyptian audience- which he says places great respect for. September 2016 Identity 63
editorial
LAUNCH OF PLATEAU AT THE JW MARRIOTT HOTEL CAIRO JW Marriott Hotel Cairo pulled off all the stops for the launch of PLATEAU, a new open-air restaurant elegantly sprawled over a spacious outdoors terrace with three partition , for Shisha , Bar and dinning overlooking the greenery of the golf course and its shimmery lake . Plateau offers the perfect place to see and to be seen while enjoying tasty food , refreshing cocktails & mocktails and the extraordinary view.
64 Identity September 2016
SsangYong fortifies its Korean presence in Egypt with the launch of the new Korean giant, Tivoli XLV, through its sole authorized distributor “Arabiat For Trading & Distribution” Established in 1954 in Korea, SsangYong Motor Company penetrated the Egyptian market in 2015 through the support of “Arabiat For Trading & Distribution”, the sole authorized distributor; introducing the youthful TIVOLI, a mini SUV available in 4x2 & 4x4 which turned into a success within a matter of 9 months. Hence paving the way for SsangYong to further dominate the Egyptian market by launching the latest global model, Tivoli XLV. Tivoli XLV is considered the “bigger sister” of Tivoli with a 4440 mm length, 1635 mm width, & 1635 mm height and a cargo space of up to 720L which is further supported into 1,440L by a foldable 2nd row, hence expanding into one of the largest cargo spaces within its segment. Sleek edges & unique design easily portrays SsangYong’s personality and Korean excellence. Similar to Tivoli, XLV offers global safety features comprised of Smart Steering (Comfort, Normal, Sport), ABS + EBD, Immobilizer & Panic alarm system, and driver seatbelt reminder. XLV’s COMFORT category offers a comfortable drive, the car’s interior is equipped with rich woven cloth seats, front & rear arm rests with cup holders, trip computer, Bluetooth, AUX/USB spots, MP3/Radio with a 6 speaker system all with a multi-function steering wheel. While the exterior is equipped with tinted power windows, outside electrically adjustable & heated mirrors, along with fashionable front & rear fog lamps. XLV’s LUXURY category offers the previous package with added treats. The interior is embellished with leather seats & steering wheel, cruise control, driver & passenger air bags with off switch, Smart keys with start/stop engine. The exterior has an electric sunroof, privacy glass in the rear windows,electrically foldable mirrors. Since SsangYong’s market penetration in 2015, it introduced 2 models, opened 4 service centers across the country, and established a reputable dealer’s network. For more information about SsangYong & its models, go to http://ssangyongegypt.com September 2016 Identity 65
bits & pieces
ABRAJ MISR PAYS EGP 600 MILLION OUT OF 800 MILLION FOR “THE GATE’S” LAND PRICE Currently studying a number of banks financing deals and all details shall be announced by the end of 2016
GOODBYE EXPECTATIONS HELLO IKEA 2017 CATALOGUE
IKEA Egypt launched its new annual catalogue for 2016 – 2017, unfolding the theme “Unfollow Expectations”, offering an additional 1,600 new products and solutions designed to inspire Fathallah Fawzy: We have received people to create their own the “The Gate’s” project final environment, making everything construction licenses and we simpler and more enjoyable. have started the implementation process.
HELLO FRIDGE SPACE, HELLO FAMILY REUNIONS When the kitchen becomes the heart of your home and the food becomes the main attraction, you’re going to need a fridge that can handle all the attention. Summer vacation—where the memories and anticipation keep you going all year long- it’s the most exhilarating season of the year. And if your ideal summer getaway includes enjoying the comfort of your own home, surrounded by the people you love, there are few things better than a generous meal prepared with fresh, delicious ingredients. 66 Identity September 2016
EAT WELL, MOVE WELL, FEEL WELL AND DISCOVER A NEW APPROACH TO WELLBEING WITH WESTIN HOTELS AT THE SCENIC MARASSI HOTSPOT IN NORTH COAST EGYPT
JUMEIRAH BAY RAS EL HEKMA LAUNCHES WITH A BANG In a star studded event held at the Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo this month, Egypt’s top businessmen and celebrities came together to celebrate the official launch of phase one of Jumeirah Bay Ras El Hekma. Earmarked to be the destination of choice on the North Coast, Jumeirah Bay Ras El Hekma is the third largest development on the North Coast, sprawling over 6,000,000 sqm of land.
GERHARD E. MITROVITS APPOINTED GENERAL To celebrate the debut of the MANAGER OF ROYAL MAXIM Westin brand into Egypt, Westin PALACE KEMPINSKI Hotels and Resorts has created an exclusive “Westin Beach Lounge” Kempinski Hotels announced at the famous Martin’s Beach the appointment of Gerhard E. hotspot at Marassi in the North Mitrovits as General Manager of Coast. From 15th August until 31st Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, August 2016, guests are invited to effective from August 2016. enjoy complimentary access daily between noon and sunset and experience the brand’s six pillars of wellbeing in this chill out space and get rewarded with Westin branded summer essentials as giveaways.
OMAR KHAYRAT ENCHANTS IN WHITE BAY
MEET THE TALENTED ZUMBA INSTRUCTOR ROMMEL REYES My name is Rommel I work for Premedion Spa and prevention center at Hilton Alexandria King’s Ranch and I love to rock it out in every Zumba class I’m part of, whether as an instructor or participant. The reason is simple: Every class feels like a party! I have continued my training in other dance genres such as Hip Hop, Bollywood, Jazz, Ballet, restaurant will feature a Thai Bellydance, and Contemporary; seafood promotion, while Fresca all the while enhancing my Café will offer a sushi promotion. knowledge and expertise in Salsa, Both will continue through August Merengue, Cha Cha, and Bachata 30, 2016. Well, the sky’s the limit!
FROM ASIA WITH LOVE In an out-of-this-world evening, AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL White Bay hosted El Maestro’s first ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT ever White-themed beach concert in Sahel. As the symphonies began This year, August comes with twice to rise, the glamorous sunset the fun at Four Seasons Hotel cast its golden beams on a crowd Alexandria with two special tastes elegantly dressed all in white; that will be presented within the El Maestro and his orchestra culinary scene of the beloved city. included! Beginning on August 12, Fish
BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT AT THE NILE RITZ-CARLTON, CAIRO Escape the summer heat and revitalize with a dip in The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo’s open air Olympic-sized swimming pool. With a cooling summer breeze coming in from the Nile, the hotel is well-placed to entertain heatweary business or leisure guests.
AL ADHA FEAST AT SONESTA HOTEL, TOWER & CASINO – CAIRO Feast would never be complete without “Family & Friends”. Celebrate with them Al Adha feast in style at Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino – Cairo, where you can The iconic hotel invites visitors treat yourself with the golden sun and Cairo residents to relax and rays & delicious buffet with live recharge by the pool with its entertainment, all around the pool. shaded sunbeds, surrounded by lush greenery and gently swaying Sonesta special accommodations palm trees. Guests can enjoy the package this Eid: sunshine and summer breeze Book 2 nights & get the 3rd night while having their cold towels for FREE replenished and sunshades For only LE 750 per person/per night in a double room, polished. based on half board basis (inclusive of all service charges and applicable taxes)
UNFORGETTABLE EID AT ROYAL MAXIM PALACE KEMPINSKI Pamper your family this Eid alAdha at the luxurious Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski. With the special welcoming and our friendly staff, you will feel royal from the first minute you step in the Palace. The Palace offers you a journey that will take you back to Europe in the Belle Époque era with all the state-of-the-art facilities. After all the greetings, the Lady in Red will escort you to your cosy room. The Royal Maxim Palace’s Eid packages start at EGP 1,599.00 .
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your star VIRGO
August 23- September 22
Strengths: Analytical, Observant, Helpful, Reliable, Precise. Weaknesses: Skeptical, Fussy, Inflexible, Cold, Interfering. Most Compatible with: Taurus, Capricorn, Pisces and Scorpio. How to Attract Virgo: Virgos are usually not attracted to overly confident or ostentatious people. They are attracted to partners who are observant, helpful and supportive and have a fun yet modest approach to life.
Horoscopes ARIES
This month, you should be ready to shift your attention from home and emotional issues to personal ambitions and outer goals.
TAURUS
LIBRA
Love compatibility between couples will be excellent this month; treat your lover to an extravagant date!
SCORPIO
Money will flow in naturally without much hard work at this time of the year. Take it easy at work and don’t push yourself too hard.
Career and professional matters will be in the background this month. You should try to concentrate SAGITTARIUS September 2016 will be an auspicious month for the on enhancing your inner strength. Sagittarius career. You will be too busy to even go out on a date.
GEMINI
This September, major changes in your job and professional life can be expected. Emotionally, you might be a little down.
CANCER
There will be frenzied activity in the home front; be prepared to shift focus to the domestic side.
LEO
In September 2016, the personal enterprise and hard work will be necessary for the Lions to accomplish their objective.
VIRGO
Your monetary situation is superb this month. For a change, the Virgins will think of splurging money on themselves. 68 Identity September 2016
CAPRICORN
This is a professionally satisfactory month with complete support from your family. Keep them close, and you will succeed professionally.
AQUARIUS
Single Aquarians looking for love relationships will be successful in September 2016. Be on the lookout for your new love interest!
PISCES
Career and finances will be excellent for Fishes. You will be physically and mentally fit and also in tip top shape this month.