MARCH 2017 - 15 L.E., VOLUME 12, ISSUE 6 WWW.IDENTITY-MAG.COM
Things Egyptian Women are Tired of hearing
8 EGYPTIAN WOMEN BREAKING GROUNDS FEMINISM:
50 items to
The Whole Story
Dress Like a Boss Hairstyles To Save You Time see page 10
Beauty Products to die for 5 MINUTES
Health Tips with Amany Helmy
The
Xecutive by women for women
What If Women Ruled The World?
MYSTERIOUS, MYSTERIOUS, EXOTIC EXOTIC AND AND MYSTERIOUS, MYSTERIOUS, EXOTIC EXOTIC AND FUN FUN TOO... TOO... TORII’S TORII’S RERE-AND FUN FUN TOO... TOO... TORII’S TORII’S RERESTYLED STYLED JAPANESE JAPANESE MENU MENU STYLED STYLED MENU MENU BRINGS BRINGS AJAPANESE MODERN AJAPANESE MODERN TWIST. TWIST. BRINGS BRINGS A MODERN A MODERN TWIST. TWIST.
‘Japanese ‘Japanese Tacos’ Tacos’ and and ‘Torii ‘Torii bites’ bites’ ‘Japanese ‘Japanese Tacos’ Tacos’ and and ‘Torii ‘Torii bites’ bites’ with with tuna, tuna, salmon salmon and and scallops... scallops... with with tuna, tuna, salmon salmon and and scallops... scallops... ‘sharing’ ‘sharing’ dishes dishes with with USUS Wagyu Wagyu ‘sharing’ ‘sharing’ dishes dishes with with US US Wagyu Wagyu beef beef , shrimps , shrimps and and prawns... prawns... soups, soups, beef beef , shrimps , shrimps and and prawns... prawns... soups, soups, salads, salads, sauces, sauces, spices spices and and herbs. herbs. salads, salads, sauces, sauces, spices spices and and herbs. herbs. Take Take front front row row seats seats forfor thethe Take Take front front row row seats seats for for the the shimmering shimmering blades blades and and flaring flaring shimmering shimmering blades blades and and flaring flaring flames flames of of teppanyaki teppanyaki with with sea sea bass, bass, flames flames of of teppanyaki teppanyaki with with sea sea bass, bass, tenderloin tenderloin beef beef and and lobster lobster tail. tail. tenderloin tenderloin beef beef and and lobster lobster tail. tail. Eat, Eat, talk, talk, share, share, relax... relax... have have fun! fun! Eat, Eat, talk, talk, share, share, relax... relax... have have fun! fun!
ASI ASI AN FUSI ON... ASI ASIAN AN AN FUSI FUSI FUSION... ON... ON... SHARE SHARE SHARE SHARE DELICI DELICI OUSNESS DELICI DELICIOUSNESS OUSNESS OUSNESS AT AT TORI AT AT TORI TORI TORIII II 16 16 SARAY SARAY EL EL GEZIRA GEZIRA ST., ST., POPO BOX BOX 33 33 ZAMALEK, ZAMALEK, CAIRO CAIRO 11211, 11211, EGYPT. EGYPT. 16 T: 16 SARAY EL EL GEZIRA GEZIRA ST., ST., POPO BOX BOX 33 33 ZAMALEK, ZAMALEK, CAIRO CAIRO 11211, 11211, EGYPT. EGYPT. T: 00.SARAY 00. 202.27.28.3000 202.27.28.3000 T: CAIROMARRIOTTHOTEL.COM T: 00.00. 202.27.28.3000 202.27.28.3000 CAIROMARRIOTTHOTEL.COM CAIROMARRIOTTHOTEL.COM CAIROMARRIOTTHOTEL.COM ARABIC.MARRIOTT.COM ARABIC.MARRIOTT.COM ARABIC.MARRIOTT.COM ARABIC.MARRIOTT.COM
IDENTITY March 2017
volume 12 issue 06
Founder & Managing Editor ROLA KAMEL Editor-in-Chief NAWAL ISMAIL Copy-Editor AMINA EL FAYOUMY Junior Editors FARAH KHEDRE NOUR YOUNIS
T
he best thing about my job has been, by far, preparing for this issue! Women Empowerment! It’s truly remarkable how many more inspiring women we still haven’t interviewed and how difficult it is to choose the perfect candidate. The brainstorming sessions are the zest on top, next comes the challenge of actually reaching them, and last but not least, coming up with the most adequate questions to let their inner beauty shine. Their exquisite stories and paths are an inspiration to many; the kind of story one would like to have when they look back in time. Each and every one of them has her own unique story, from cooking to motorcycle riding and much more. Buckle your seats and get ready to be zapped in their worlds! We bring you a few of these exceptional women and pray that our interviews serve them right. We enjoyed every minute preparing for this issue, and we hope you enjoy it too! Rola Kamel 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 Distribution by AL AHRAM Website Company: QPIX SOLUTIONS Contact us at: 26A Montazah St., Zamalek, Cairo-Egypt. Tel: 0227361187 Mobile: 0122-9401071 email: sendus@identity-mag.com www.identity-mag.com
IDENTITYMAGEG
4 March 2017
Freelance Writer AMINA ELGHANDOUR Relationship Expert MARWA RAKHA Fashion Expert NAHED KAZZIHA Senior Graphic Designer ALIA EL ABD Junior Graphic Designer SANDY SAIED Marketing & Advertising Manager RIHAM YEHIA Digital Marketing Manager STEVE NABEEL Digital Marketing Executive YOUSSEF ALI Social Media Executive ALY KHALIL Business Development Manager NOHA OMRAN Identity Magazine Distributor ASHRAF FOUAD
IDENTITYcontents
The Xecutive see page 22
FOR WOMEN
8 Amany Helmy: Fit & Over Fourty 32 How to Turn Your Partner Into a Feminist? 34 Milestones in the Story of Feminism 36 Seven Things Egyptian Women are Tired of Hearing 38 If Women Ruled the World
STYLE
10 Hairstyles For Professional Women 12 This Season’s Beauty Essentials 14 Fashion Bosses 18 My Mama’s Jeans 19 Like Mother, Like Daughter 20 Working Girl
EMPOWERMENT
38 The Persistent Ragia Samir 40 Rowaidah Bibers, the PR Guru 42 The Football Lover, Laila ElGammal 44 The Always Curious and Ready to Explore, Indji Ghattas! 46 Hanan Youssef, Painting the World on Her Canvas 48 Norshek, the Fitness Fanatic
IS HE HINDERING MY PERSONAL GROWTH? page 6
6 March 2017
50 Planning a Life with Reham El Ezaby 52 Assia, Healthy Has Never Been this Yummy!
OUT & ABOUT 54 60 62 64
Advertorial Snaps Press Releases Horoscopes
FASHION BOSSES page 14
IDENTITYadvice
Q&A
C) Is more experienced than you and truly sees all the pitfalls in your way
Identity
If it’s the first, then you are dating an insecure person who is stumbling all the time, cannot get a proper job, is always falling behind, in general performing below expectations, is lazy and is not an achiever. If that is the type of person you are dating, then it is totally expected that he would be jealous of you and that he would try to hold you back in the name of love or under any other false pretense.
Is He Hindering My Personal Growth? by Marwa Rakha
Dear Marwa, I’ve been in a relationship with my boyfriend for 6 months now. In all honesty, everything was going great. We were really getting along and having a lot of fun together, however, I can’t help but notice that he is slowly turning into a control freak. He started to have a lot of reservations about my work and who I talk to. This has been causing a lot of problems between us, and I don’t know what to do. What do you think I should do? Is he hindering my personal growth? Should I break up with him?
If it’s the second, then you will notice that his control extends beyond your dream job and career. Does he have a say in what you choose to wear, in who you choose to befriend, in how you carry yourself, in what you choose to say, and in your general demeanor? If yes, then your man likes you, might grow to love you, but he wants to own you. He sees you as someone who has potential for a decent life and he has made it his job to save you from the life of debauchery that you are living. He is acting as a self-righteous saviour. If it is the third, he might have the right intentions but he is turning into a father figure. A father would order you to do something or forbid you from doing another without any further explanation, without room for exploration and without allowing you space for experimentation because he is older and wiser, and because he loves you and you should trust him and obey him blindly. If your boyfriend is acting this way, then you have gotten yourself into another fatherdaughter relationship. Should you leave him? This is not an easy decision. Even if you are on the wrong path, you are entitled to make mistakes, learn from them and grow. This is the only way we grow and there is no other way to gain life experience. We must make mistakes and wrong choices to gain depth and inner wisdom!
Before you decide to stay or leave, examine his character further and find out which one of the three Dear Worried About Personal Growth, types above your relationship falls into. You can look at the bigger picture and decide if this is the person you Your complaint is the tip of the iceberg, and getting to would like to date or not, how serious you are about a the root of this problem needs further digging. On the future with that person and how involved do you want surface, your boyfriend seems controlling, but what are him to be in your life. The next step would be to talk the real motives behind his behaviour? to him openly about how you feel about him and his interference in your life. Set your limits and see what he A) Jealous of you – as in envious has to say. B) Lacks trust in you 8 March 2017
The purpose of this month’s issue is to celebrate women, inspire them to be who they are and share their success stories. But we also wanted to celebrate our own female role models, because they are the ones we look up to whenever we feel like giving up. This is a nice reminder of historical figures that left a huge dent in the world and a mention to modern day women who still fight everyday for a better world.
Q: Who is your female role model and why? A’s: “My mother. She taught me strength, responsibility and perseverance. She’s a tough cookie! I can’t think of a better role model! Also, Anne Sullivan for her tolerance and bravery. She always inspired me. Imagine having to teach a child with Helen Keller’s condition. She must have had tolerance beyond human. I always remember her when I become intolerant.” Rola “Angela Merkel, because she’s the leader of a great nation. She’s a strong woman who lives a simple life; she even buys her own groceries.” Steve “My mom is my role model. We often underestimate the importance of family in our lives, when in fact they make us into the strong people we are. My mom is one of those people who can make being strong look so easy.” Nour “Radwa Ashour, because she was strong, liberated, beautiful and an aspiring novelist. She defended the Palestinian case and always used her voice to fight the injustices in Egypt.” Youssef “Zaha Hadid, because she created a whole new school in architecture that she will always be remembered for.” Sandy “Every woman who supports other women.” Farah “I would have to say any pioneering feminist, from Huda Shaarawi to Beyoncé. Any woman who’s stood up for women’s rights is a role model to me and my mom, of course, because she was a pretty awesome working woman back in the day!” Alia March 2017 9
IDENTITYhealth
AMANY HELMY: Fit & Over 40
Best of Instagram
by Nour Younis
Fitness and health have been receiving a lot of attention lately. However, a lot of women who are trying to carve their way to the perfect body shape still struggle to find clear guidelines on how to do it. This is why we brought you the advice of the expert Amany Helmy, a 50 year old Egyptian woman and a mother of two who was the first to complete the Ironman Triathlon in Barcelona, Spain in October 2016, hoping that her endearing spirit would inspire other women to follow in her footsteps. As for the diet, I recommend you eat the right quality of food that gives you the fuel to pursue your daily It has come to our knowledge that you were planning workout and healthy living. This can be achieved by to pursue a career as a banker, why would you say eating more plant based food containing the right you made the switch and what encouraged you? amounts of protein and vitamins, along with low carbs such as brown rice, pasta and whole-wheat bread in It was simply pure fate that made me switch from my small portions from 4 to 5 times per day. banking career to my sports achievements. My husband decided to go to the United States of America to What is your advice for middle aged woman who are pursue his PhD, and I resigned from banking to support just starting out new fitness programs? his decision and discovered the world of sports. I was so motivated to see so many varieties of people doing It’s never too late to exercise. I believe that in every their sports, indoors and outdoors, and I thought why phase of age growth, you can always reinvent yourself. couldn’t I do the same. I tried it and became addicted You only have to be passionate about it. I started with to it. playing basketball, and then moved to aerobics and then entered the world of running. I also took up tennis, I fell in love with running early in the morning until I Pilates, and finally I’m enjoying the sport of triathlons at finished my first marathon in Dallas, Texas. I used the age of 50. to attend aerobic classes on a daily basis until I got certified as an aerobics instructor. What are some of the challenges you faced as an athletic woman here in Egypt, and how do you believe From your experience, how do you believe women you were able to surmount them? could optimize their fitness level after the age of 40? Is there a specific diet that you would recommend Egypt sometimes doesn’t offer the best environment them to follow? when it comes to practicing outdoor sports like cycling or running. I try to take advantage of the great weather we I believe women can optimize their fitness when they have most of the year and early morning exercise to avoid reach 40 by incorporating strength training as part of traffic and any harassments. Please don’t use that excuse their exercise routine. This helps greatly in improving to not pursue your outdoor workouts, and remember their bone density, and thereby allows them to exercise you always have a goal to reach and that is your ultimate better, safer and for longer durations. happiness achieved from being fit and healthy. 10 March 2017
Photography: Julie Fischer
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IDENTITYbeauty
Hairstyles
for Professional Women by Nour Younis
With multiple trends popping up to help complete the perfect professional look for working women, it is crucial to realize the significance of your hair in making a statement. This is why we thought it is necessary to review this year’s professional hairstyling trends. Remember, just because your work is boring, doesn’t mean that your hair has to be too!
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THE TWENTIES UP DO Some people like to call it ‘The Great Gatsby’ fever, and it really is a fever, except it’s the kind that will make you look absolutely glamorous on any working day! You wouldn’t need to change a thing about it when you’re out and about on a classy date at night. 12 March 2017
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THE FRINGE Believe it or not, this seventies look is now back and in style and the best news is that it no longer comes in half measurements, but in either mini or XXXL forms! The hairstyle is just perfect, because it allows you to look professional while giving you the edge you need to look radiant.
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THE STRAIGHT AND SIMPLE This look is for those of you who have very long hair and absolutely no time or energy in the morning to style it. Super straight is just the way for you to go, especially because you could totally straighten it the day before and just touch it up in the AM if you have to!
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HALF UP, HALF DOWN This one is perfect for those lazy days when you’re too tired to style your hair. You can even play a little and tie your hair up in different styles like in a knot, a loosely twisted back or in a French braid.
THE LOW PONYTAIL If you’re looking for a simple youthful elegant look, then this one is definitely for you. All you need to do is tie your hair back in a fairly low ponytail with a black hair tie, because less is always more.
THE KNOT IT UP While pintails are cool and chic, it is elegant to just create a lovely knot at the nape of the neck and leave some loose strands hanging out for texture. The messy loops create a very appealing look, and it gives you just the edgy style that you need.
THE BALLERINA BUN It’s a classic, but it’s also ultra chic. It will give you the fantasy look you’ve been seeking without making you look like you were even trying.
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THE PIN BACK This style is both trendy and work appropriate. All you need to do is apply thermal protector spray on damp hair, dry your hair with a round brush making sure that you create volume, while pushing your hair and loosely twisting it to the desired side and pin it.
THE CHIGNON You can never go wrong with this hairstyle, especially because it gives you the “I mean business” vibe that, most, women usually opt for, and it looks better than a boring hair bun. March 2017 13
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IDENTITYbeauty
THIS SEASON’S BEAUTY ESSENTIALS by Farah Khedre
Pampering should be a way of life, a lifestyle because it will benefit your health, your wellbeing and will allow you to reconnect with your body and soul. Beauty brands all over are majorly upping their game and creating captivating products that it’s hard to keepup. Check out these cool tools, products and gadgets that will make your 2017 easier.
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TOM FORD LIPS & BOYS 2016 The Tom Ford Lips & Boys lipstick collection is ever growing. They come in a range of diverse shades that will cover you all season long. It’s tough finding a nude shade that goes well with your notso-rosy-pink lips, and Tom Ford offers you a nude shade that will glide over your lips and give a glossy look without being sticky. Our favourite shade? It has to be the gorgeous deep metallic plum shade that would definitely rock any outfit.
A MAKEUP MISTAKE ERASING PEN It’s hard to get our makeup right without a few blotches here and there, especially when we’re applying eyeliner. Prestige Cosmetics’ Make Up Eraser Pen will remove any kind of makeup mistake and will come in handy on the days we don’t get enough beauty rest and our eyes are half closed, half open.
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ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS DIPBROW POMADE It’s tough when you need to fill in your brow but can’t find the right shade that matches your hair color. Either it’s too light, too dark or too irrelevant. Anastasia Beverley Hills’ Dipbrow is a smudge-free, waterproof pomade formula that comes in 11 natural shades. It performs as an all-in-one brow product as it works as a brow primer as well as provide color, shading and sculpture. It will also make you stop worrying that your brows are disappearing throughout the day.
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A TOP MATTE COAT THAT WILL MAKE ANY NAIL POLISH MATTE Matte finishes are all the hype now, but we don’t always find the perfect nail polish shade we want in matte. So with O.P.I’s genius matte top coat, we now needn’t fret because we can make all that’s shiny matte in a matter of seconds.
ULTRA HD FOUNDATION BY MAKEUP FOREVER Make Up Forever’s Ultra HD Foundation comes in 40 shades so no one would feel left out. It’s impossible not to find the color that suits you best! It will hide any imperfections such as acne scaring or uneven skin tones and gives you flawless skin. After all, it’s called Ultra HD because it was created for HD TV.
DIOR DIORSHOW MASCARA To women with sensitive eyes, applying eye makeup is a real challenge. Therefore, picking the right mascara can be a bit of a nightmare. Because you deserve better than watery and itchy eyes, Dior’s Diorshow Mascara is made with the right formula that contains the right kind of unfragranced ingredients. Also, make sure that when you apply it, you avoid the root of the lash and instead, put it on slightly above the root thus further away from the actual eye.
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MARC JACOBS LE MARC LIQUID CRÈME This new sensation is an eight-hour wear, non-dr ying, liquid lipstick that comes in a range of bold, vanilla scented and full coverage nudes. It guarantees that your lips will stay looking full and plump and won’t appear cracked or lined all day long!
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URBAN DECAY LIQUID MOONDUST CREAM EYE SHADOW Urban Decay’s Moondust eye shadows now come in a cream formula! The super blendable shadows come in 8 sparkly shades that will give your look that extra shimmery something to stand out. They contain bits of iridescent sparkle and lush 3-D metallics to give your eyes a diamond-like effect.
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COMPLEXION CORRECTION SKINCARE CC CREAM BY EMBRYOLISSE This CC Cream is a univer sal complexion perfector that adapts to your natural skin tone and corrects imperfections such as blurring the appearance of fine lines, dilated pores and wrinkles. It is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, which aids the skin in retaining essential moisture and the product also protects the skin from premature ageing. You can either apply it on your entire face or on the targeted zone; use it on bare skin or after day cream.
ANASTASIA GLOW KIT This palette will enhance your collarbones, brow bones, and cheekbones or anywhere you wish to draw attention to. The ultimate glow kit comes in six stunning shades from glimmering golds and coppers to burnished bronzes. It can be applied dry or with a dampened brush to immediately take you from day to night. It could also be used as an eye-enhancing shadow!
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IDENTITYstyle
FASHION BOSSES
CHIARA FERRAGNI
Signature Style: Eponymous Shoe Label
by Nahed Kazziha
Before Girl Boss, there was just Boss and she was a woman. Our protagonists below forward fashion thinking from varying angles. There are those who paid their dues, and those who spotted a gap in the market through keen sense of observation. Some are veterans of the industry, and others are millennials paving the way ahead. Undoubtedly, all of them rule over the fashion kingdom with power, grace and of course, style.
Fashion website, Who What Wear, is consulted by sartorial aficionados worldwide for trend reports and street style, thanks to its California Girl co-founder Katherine Power. Along with fashion journalist, Hillary Kerr, the duo debuted a new approach to fashion in 2006, taking it off the runway into the more attainable realm of friendly online bloggingno Mean Girls allowed. It’s been a decade and Power is arguably among the most influential girl bosses out there, having built an empire out of a website, collaborating with Target on an apparel line and co-authoring a book. To boot, her minimalist style is always on point, down to the manicured nails and polished hairdo.
KATHERINE POWER
Signature Style: Minimalist Blazer
When your name eclipses your own brand, you know you have got it made! Chiara Ferragni pretty much invented fashion blogging, as evidenced by her near 8 million Instagram followers. Her website,The Blonde Salad, not to mention her shoe line and numerous collaborations, have turned Italy’s defile darling into an international sensation. She began her blog in 2009 and two years later, while still studying law at Bocconi, she was profiled by Teen Vogue as Blogger of the Moment. Ferragni has since proven her staying power and solidified her position among the social influencer elite.
Chiara Ferragni Shoes
Balmain
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IDENTITYstyle
SARAH RUTSON
Signature Style: Breton Stripes
Formerly VP of Global Buying for Net-A-Porter, Sarah Rutson is famed for her keen sense of business and eye for the creative- not to mention her love of all things striped! At 45, Rutson kept a pulse on new talents across the industry, such as Monse and Junya Watanabe, often serving as their mentor and avid online promoter. She is not only credited with scouting up and upcoming designers, but also with introducing established brands like Chanel into the online retail space. As if all of that were not enough to admire Sarah Rutson, her consistent posts praising her buying team showed a genuine collaborative spirit and support that all lady bosses should aspire to adopt.
ANNA WINTOUR
Signature Style: Oversized Shades
The London-born legend in dark oversized sunnies and statement chokers is best known for her unapologetically angular bob cut and, of course, her career as Editor-In-Chief of Vogue US. The real life Miranda Priestly is feared and revered on the international fashion scene. Her clout is powerful enough to make or break a designer. Wintour had journalism in her blood, as the daughter of the Evening Standard’s editor. She went from high school job at London’s most exclusive boutique to being in charge of fashion’s most coveted print media in just under 25 years.
Chanel
La Ligne
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IDENTITYstyle
MY MAMA’s JEANS Mother
by Nahed Kazziha
This is nothing short of an open love letter to the most au courant form of denim out there. A shout out to the jeans that hug the heart as tightly as they do the figure, crafted out of the strongest of fabrics capable of keeping up with your hardcore activities on the go. These pants accentuate what you want to flaunt, all the while keeping those secrets you would rather keep well concealed- a true and loyal friend of your physique.
Mother Daughter Daughter
Mother
Daughter
LIKE MOTHER LIKE DAUGHTER
But before they were Mom Jeans, they were just jeans. All the rage in the 80s and meshing into the 90s bootcut, the denim wonders are back to bring magic into our casual wardrobe, claiming cult following. You know that when Kendall Jenner rocks a classic, it is mandatorily back on trend. So, give your skinnies a break and set those flares aside. Instead, grab the most comfy and on point denim style of the season.
Paul & Joe
by Nahed Kazziha
They say the apple does not fall far from the tree. So let Mother’s Day be a reminder of that special Mother-Daughter bond that transcends all things fashion. Playing Mommy and Me is every little girl’s daydream come true- just think of countless fashionistas-to-be slipping into their mothers’ stilettos at this very moment! Thankfully, both highstreet and couture have answered our #Twinning prayers to shower us with an abundance of closet stuffers for mother and daughter alike. So, take a look at some of the winning picks you can nab to take your bonding to a sartorial level.
Ragged Priest Mother
Daughter
Mother Vanessa Seward Topshop MOTO
Balenciaga
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Mother
Waven
Mother Daughter
H&M
Daughter
Daughter
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IDENTITYstyle
Working Girl by Nahed Kazziha
H&M
You have fought your way to the top- blood, sweat and tears. You have hustled and stayed up late nights planning your business. You may even be roaming the globe helping to make the world a better place. And while the girls of yesteryear were made of sugar, spice and everything nice, you are made of grit and matter. So, it is only natural that your wardrobe expresses it, too!
Abercrombie & Fitch
Le Specs
BOARD ROOM You know that board room battles are not limited to hashing out contracts and plans.You need to exude confidence and clarity. Try on a suit for size; skirt or pants will do. After all, it is called a power suit for a reason. And go ahead and try bolder hues in favour of classic black every once in a while, with minimal accessories. No muss, no fuss.
CORPORATE CASUAL There are two candidates for this look: first, those who can wear jeans to work (Score!); and second, those who celebrate casual Thursdays at work (TGIF…I mean, TGIT). The trick is to keep it polished, yet laid back. Make sure your denim is not ripped and torn; preferably opt for a darker wash. Avoid the fashion faux pas of confusing “going out” tops with shirts- casual does not mean party-time!
Balenciaga
Theory Haider Ackermann
Fendi
Dr Martens
Christian Louboutin
Roland Mouret
Smythson
Johanna Ortiz
Zara
Saint Laurent
L’Agence
22 March 2017
Gabriela Hearst
FIELD WORKER Whether you are a do-gooder travelling to develop a remote village, an explorer wandering around harsh terrain or an engineer out to scout your next site, you will need to be prepared and styleready. Sturdy shoes are a must, because nobody wants to mess with their pair of Manolos. It is best to skillfully layer your garments, instantly adding style and readiness, come what may.
MR by Manrepeller Proenza Schouler
Frame
ENTREPRENEURESS You are no stranger to the professional battlefield. Armed with a notebook or tablet to capture inspiration and ideas on the go, you better have a stylish way to lug your gadgets around from meeting to meeting. Keep heads turning with a statement blouse, but plant your feet firmly on the ground with comfy loafers or sneakers without slowing down.
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IDENTITYthexecutive
The
Xecutive by women for women
“The Xecutive” collection revolves around women empowerment and celebrates their success and independence. In this showcase, every single detail is done by women, for women, and to women. Gathering between their tight schedules and them wanting to look good, Temraza smoothly blends in to fit into their lives making them look elegant and confident all day. “The collection showcased are very much what ZAGH is about, a woman that is confident & proud, one that celebrates her femininity but is vicious when defined by it”. Fashion Designer: TEMRAZA Jewellery Designer: ZAGH Model: MONIQUE WEINGART Photographer: ISABELLE RUEN Make-up & Hair: REYNA KHALIL Art Exhibit & Special Thanks to RECYCLE GROUP INSTALLATION curated by Richard Taittinger Gallery, & Artists: ANDREY BLOKHIN & GEORGY KUZNETSOV Location & Special Thanks to HOTEL INDIGO, NEW YORK
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IDENTITYforwomen
How To Turn Your Partner Into a Feminist? by Farah Khedre
A lot of women refrain from associating themselves with the word “feminist”, because in the eyes of many people, it is synonymous with “man hater” and “butch”. It’s only natural that more men would have the same attitude. Most men would squirm and guffaw at the mention of the ‘f’ word, because the media and society have long been portraying feminists as rabid men haters. It’s time all feminists united and gathered all of their anti-feminists partners and nudged them in the right direction. This is how you turn your partner into a feminist:
think there’s more to it than achieving equal rights between men and women, because that is the actual If you have ever asked your partner if he’s a feminist, definition of the word. Break down the stereotype that and his answer was a firm “no”, then make sure he has feminists believe women are better than men and that the right understanding of the word. “Feminism means bashing men is what feminism is about. Simply, explain believing in equal rights for men and women,” is an to him that feminists are those who believe that men uncomplicated, succinct answer that is sure to satisfy and women are equal and that all individuals should be him. Don’t explain it in a complex way that makes him judged by their abilities rather than their gender. 1- Explain to him what feminism is
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2- If he already believes in equal rights for men and men. Get him involved in the scene and show him women, explain to him that this makes him a feminist that men can be feminists too. Show him that men are crucial to the feminist cause, because feminism liberates Sometimes those who do believe in equal rights both genders. Expose him to the feminist organizations, between both genders still don’t like to refer to which target men such as HeForShe, the National themselves as feminists due to all the misconceptions, Organization for Men Against Sexism and Men Can stigmas and negative connotations associated with the Stop Rape. word. Your partner might not like the word, but if he says he believes in equal rights for men and women, then he needs to understand this word he hates 6- Be rational and not pushy defines a part of his personality. Therefore, whether he chooses to be identified as a feminist or not, his beliefs If you have a strong argument but your reasoning and inherently make him a feminist. Maybe he just doesn’t method of communicating it is aggressive and pushy, feel that the label properly represents him because of your message will never get through. This applies on all the misogynist man’s line of thinking that all feminists fields of life. To start changing your partner’s opinion of blame men for everything. Whatever the case is, let him feminists and push him in the right direction, you can’t know that it’s never the words or labels that matter as be on the attack all the time. You have to take into much as the actions do, and yet identifying himself as a consideration that he was brought up in a male-centric feminist shouldn’t make him feel ashamed. society, so it’s only natural that his core beliefs are muddled by years of being taught the wrong lessons. Bring up the subject of feminism lightly and only when 3- Show him what a feminist looks like by actions not it’s relevant. If you push him to discuss the subject all day words every day, he will get bored and lose interest. Be smart about picking the right time to question his feelings Simply, be a feminist example. He will reach his feminist and thoughts about patriarchy, sexism and misogyny, potential when he starts to reflect your feminist values, because timing is very important. and the only way he will do that if you lead by example. Balance the dynamic of your relationship and don’t expect him to pay the tab, or be the one who spoils 7- Argue that “feminist is manly” you and treats you like a princess all the time. Society and culture tells men that being identified as feminists makes them girly and questions their 4- Call him out on sexist comments manhood. But it takes strength for a man to admit that men and women should be treated equally. It takes People laugh at sexist jokes all the time and think it’s strength because this is confessing that men should be okay or acceptable because it’s “just a joke”. People, able to cry without being emasculated, that they have especially anti-feminists, always assume that feminist every right to express their emotions without society women don’t have a sense of humor because they labeling them as weak. Only men who are absolutely refuse to laugh at an offensive joke. Refusing to confident in their sexuality and manhood would gladly normalize a situation that is abnormal does not make admit that feminism is needed and necessary to both us humorless. If your partner ever engages in offensive genders. commentary, makes a sexist comment or laughs at one, call him on it and explain why it offended you. And now that you’ve turned your partner into a feminist, some people would advise you to thank him for being an ally and for being open to the idea 5- Make him read about feminist organizations for of feminism. But, Identity says don’t! The truth is, he men should thank you for bestowing upon him the most precious skill of all: common sense! However, do Maybe he never associates himself with the cause be proud of him for standing up to women’s rights because he feels like the feminist community is directed and for being the man that he is, because most men by women at women and that there’s no place for wouldn’t bother with being feminists. March 2017 33
IDENTITYforwomen
Secular Feminism and Education
MILESTONES IN THE STORY OF FEMINISM by Amina El Ghandour
Feminism is a long story that is intertwined with the history of human thought. There are many dimensions to look at this intriguing topic that inspires arguments and raises questions to our day. Whether one supports or doubts the notions embedded in ‘Feminism’, one fact remains, and that is feminism is one of the most important movements in human history. A lot of human achievement would have not come to fruition without the liberation of women. This took centuries of thought and independent minds that were able to challenge the established conventions. In this article, Identity would like to touch on the milestones of the feminist movement and some of the influential individuals who helped bring it to life.
escape an unwanted marriage or the institution of marriage altogether, and devote herself to learning. Therefore, it is no surprise that the notions of feminism were seeded in the female orders of the Middle Ages, rising from the idea that all are equal in the eyes of God.
With the Protestant movement and the disintegration of the conventional Church into more forms of reformist groups and sects, women started to emerge more as religious activists. The numbers of female preachers increased dramatically. But loud female voices ran a dangerous risk; they aggravated their male counters who exploited the thin line between prophecy/spirituality and demonic possession. Many outspoken women fell prey to the witch hunts of the 17th century. Most known in the English popular culture is Dame Eleanor Davis, whose revelations resulted in Religious Feminism her being an icon of female lunacy and the material for jokes at the time. It did not end with her slander; she The feminist movement can be traced back to the was also fined and imprisoned, and only her rank saved female religious orders of the 11th century. A life her from being burnt at the stake. at covenant was the only way a noble woman could 34 March 2017
fight, however, was fierce in England. Those campaigning were labelled ‘suffragettes’ by the Daily Mail in 1906. “No taxation without representation” was at the heart of their campaign. The suffragettes became a wide and organized movement in Edwardian England, acting under the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) founded by the Pankhurst Family; most remembered for the movement was the determined and outspoken Emmeline Pankhurst. These women rallied, protested and marched with banners. Their dress code was white, green and purple. It was not long before some even resorted to violence, knocking on politicians’ doors, smashing shop windows and even taking up suicidal acts. But the violence lost them some of their supporters and resulted in the imprisonment of many suffragettes.
Female voices that spoke in the name of God were thinly tolerated. Hence, a more serious problem rose with secular female activism. By the 17th century, powerful secular voices, like Marguerite de Navarre (1599) and Anne Marie Van Schurmann (1640), started championing the intellectual abilities of women. They were followed by an unwelcomed strain of female writers. The cultural boom of the Elizabethan era resulted in a surge of female playwrights in England who were not enthusiastically welcomed, but strongly present nevertheless. In France, a female playwright also nudged the feminist movement forward in the period of political tensions that led to the revolution. In 1791, Olympe de Gouges published the Declaration of the Rights of Woman and the Female Citizen.With voices The suffragettes’ movement was one of the best advocating female intellectual abilities, the significant documented female movements in history due to fight became the fight for education. the emergence of photography. The intensity of the campaign came to a halt by the break of WWI. And One strong voice for female secular education in the finally, in 1918, women over the age of 30 were given the 18th century was the writer and philosopher Mary right to vote in England. After WWI, many European, Wollstonecraft. Her arguments resonated powerfully Asian and African countries adopted women’s suffrage. during the Enlightenment era and were backed by a However, it took Spain, Italy and France two more number of male and female advocates of women’s decades to allow women to vote. rights. However, education remained for a long time tied to the religious establishments, and it was not until the 19th century that secular female education took off. A Feminist Movements Around the World secular education rendered more work opportunities for women. In America, feminism emerged in the wake of the anti-slavery movement in the 19th century. But many countries in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America Marriage and Female Rights had much to battle before the rights of women. Subjected to colonialism and exploitation, feminist When it comes to married women’s rights, many movements came as an aftermath of movements names can be mentioned, but Caroline Norton stands against the social injustices resulted by colonialism. For out. Despite her good education and social standing, example, in Mexico, the first wave of feminism sparked Caroline Norton discovered that a married woman with the revolution (1910-18) against the dictator had absolutely no legal rights when her marriage fell Porfirio Diaz who ruled after the break from the second apart. Caroline’s husband put his hands on her money French Empire. And in Egypt, a feminist movement was and deprived her of her three children. She campaigned embedded in the 1919 revolution against the British relentlessly until she was able to instigate the passing occupation. of the Custody of Infants Act 1839, The Matrimonial Causes Act 1857 and the Married Women’s Property It takes independent minds and courageous Act 1870.These laws were replicated in other countries individuals to change the course of history. The and reshaped the lives of countless women. fight for women’s rights was a long one, and still ongoing in certain parts of the world. But the strife for women’s rights is a strife for humanity overall Fighting for the Vote: the Suffragettes and should continue to extend to every individual on the face of the earth. The break from definitions The fight for the right to vote was one of the main that confine groups to their sex, race, or religion and milestones in the story of Feminism.The right of women to vote was given with limitation in Sweden, Iceland the recognition of equal rights for all is inevitable to and Finland towards the end of the 19th century. The a world with less suffering. March 2017 35
IDENTITYforwomen Being an Egyptian woman in Egypt is hardly a walk in the park. In fact, it is one of the toughest things a woman ought to face. Not only does it come with a lot of tasks and uncalled for expectations, but the amount of bogus conversations and talk women have to endure is just completely and utterly ridiculous. That being said, we compiled for you a few things women in Egypt are constantly being told in hopes that you would understand some of the struggles that Egyptian women face.
1.
When are you getting married? It doesn’t matter how accomplished a woman is, this question will always haunt her. In a way, it reflects on the Egyptian society as a whole and on how women are not defined by their hard work and self worth, but by which box they would check off the marital status section in official documents. In all honesty, it’s really a degrading question because it makes women feel like whatever they got going on in their lives is not enough unless a man put a ring on it.
2.
You’ve put some weight on. This is also one of the few declarations you only hear in Egypt, even though it’s considered really inappropriate in any other part of the world. No one should be allowed to comment on any person’s appearance unless they are complimenting them. Imagine what women in Egypt feel when they’re constantly being body shamed without anyone ever thinking that it’s inappropriate behaviour to begin with.
7
Things Egyptian Women are Tired of Hearing
3.
or to have a career that is slightly more successful than theirs. A woman ought to only study business, fashion design or any other non science major. At the end of the day, she is only expected to earn her degree, stay at home and turn into a housewife who has nothing but her husband and children to care for.
5.
Women can’t drive. No actually, some women do know how to drive just like some men do become fashion designers.There is absolutely nothing in this world that is only exclusive to one gender, so why is it that women in Egypt have to constantly endure being told that they can’t drive? The generalization is just unfair, and most women get really offended from being accused of something that is not even supported by any evidence, but just because some men gathered together one day and decided that women can’t drive and that this is how it is.
6.
She couldn’t take care of her home. They usually say that when women go through a divorce or are separated from their husbands. As if losing your perfect family was not hard enough, people tend to think that it’s ok to add insult to injury and blame women for their failed marriages. Apparently, marriage is supposed to be this death sentence that you cannot ever get out of even if you’re being abused or treated inhumanely.
7.
She’s easy. Society tends to have these genuinely absurd rules that women in Egypt have to abide by. Women have to be nice, but not so nice. If they were just a little bit nicer than what society allows them to be, that would mean that they are being flirtatious in an ill mannered way which would make women unworthy of an honourable man who would protect them. After all, they were easy. Men didn’t have to work hard enough to earn them by their sides.
How are you going to get married if you don’t know how to cook? Apparently, in Egypt, being a good wife is directly correlated with being a good cook. They don’t ask you about your morals or your life goals, because these things are just unimportant. What’s important is a woman’s ability to cook perfect Mahshi and Mumbar dishes that are just as good as the ones their mothers in law cook. Finally, these examples are enough to show the amount of gender stereotyping that is predominant in our society today. The evidence is uncanny, Science schools aren’t for girls. They don’t want girls to go for engineering or medicine, because and it’s about time women put a stop to all the they don’t believe that their degrees would be of use. humiliation they constantly have to deal with to this It’s not like husbands would like their women to work day.
4.
by Nour Younis 36 March 2017
March 2017 37
IDENTITYforwomen
IF WOMEN RULED THE WORLD by Farah Khedre
K
evin Hart, being the comedian that he is, once said: “If women ruled the world, there would be no wars. There would just be a bunch of jealous countries not talking to each other.” We will overlook the stereotype for the sake of humour and because the first part of the sentence is actually not far off from the truth. Women are more compassionate; it’s only natural that there wouldn’t be talk about a pending World War III because feminine empathy would end all wars. But let’s put aside war for a second. What would the world be like if women ruled it? Yes, men don’t actually lead the world. Yet, the majority of those in positions of authority are men. Most of the world’s past rulers, kings and sultans, both great and grim, were all male. Women simply didn’t get a chance to rule as much as men did. The majority of the workforce consists of men and in most of the cases, they are the sole breadwinners of households which indirectly makes them rule the family. So, what if it was the other way around? These types of questions are hard to answer. It’s hard to pinpoint all the differences that would be apparent in the world if men and women switched positions. It’s actually a question in and of itself because it raises more questions than it leads to answers. 1- If men were women and women were men, would the difference only be cosmetic?
because men all around the world feel undermined, disrespected and violated by women? 6- Would the men working in the film industry have to define themselves as “Male Directors”? 7- Would male writers be asked in interviews: “What’s it like being a man in your industry?” because it’s a job that’s usually occupied by women? Social stigmas affect men as well as women, but there’s no denying that in our real world, women got the shorter end of the stick. Aside from the social stigmas faced by women, the question also raises more questions that address the social and cultural disgrace associated with the male gender. For example, would fathers finally be proud if their sons worked as “male nurses”? In this imaginary world where women are men, is a woman “the one” and man “the other”? Would boys be dressing as girls to seem more powerful or would they still find it offensive to wear skirts or dresses? Would women refuse to wear pants because it’s offensive to their gender? Or would women still dress as men to shake off the meaning of power altogether and establish equality? Would women urinate in public and sexually harass the men they feel like harassing? Would men be expected to shave their legs? The list of questions is vastly endless but unfortunately, we will never know. In this fantasy, would the world be a grim place for men? Would they be scared to walk down a dark and empty alleyway alone? Somehow, it seems really and profusely unlikely.
2- Would men only be filling women’s shoes and vice versa without actual change in the dynamic between However, in a woman-dominated world, one could expect the two genders occurring? that the controversial obsession with the bikini wax to 3- Would women be the dicks and would gender wane. Women won’t be expected to trim and shave every part of their body to be perceived as attractive imbalance still be prevalent? and sexy because men won’t be deciding for them what 4- Would we be constantly hearing about men’s is sexy and what isn’t. Women, like men, also have their personal issues that will hold them back and consequently issues? let the world suffer, but in this imaginary world, the war 5- Would there be such a movement called “Maleism” isn’t suffering because it turned into a war zone. 38 March 2017
It is safe to conclude that in a world where women lead, gender inequality would still be an issue and men would still be fighting for at least some of the rights women are fighting for. In ancient times, women were seen unfit to be leaders, because their intellectual capacity was perceived as limited and women themselves were seen as “emotional” beings unable to make unbiased and logical decisions (especially during that time of the month “when their hormones are acting up”). Logic
itself doesn’t even know how to justify that with a dignified answer. The ability to prioritize emotions, emotional fortitude, sound decision making skills (this might surprise some men but women do possess this ability) and compassion only add up to the reasons why women are fit to lead, just like men. In a world led by women, there would be less chaos. We would not be bombarded with news of sexual assault, bombings, death, hatred and war on a daily basis. March 2017 39
IDENTITYempowerment
What were some of the challenges you confronted I would have to say absolutely yes! Samsung is a on your journey as a woman establishing a persona company that respects diversity and inclusion of for herself in the marketing field? women in business and all other aspects. During my visit to Samsung headquarters in Korea, I have met In some rare cases, it was challenging to lead/manage women who are more senior than I am and leading on men who were actually older than me in age. Yet, very senior posts in Samsung Global Team. In Samsung with patience, team engagement/empowerment, Korea - for example - pregnant female employees are professionalism as well as trust my team, I was able to given a different color ID so that all their colleagues establish a win-win situation with them because at the would know of their pregnancy. They are given priority, end of the day, we all want to benefit the business, the attention and a general special treatment. team and all of us individually.
The Persistent
RAGIA SAMIR by Farah Khedre
Ragia Samir, the one for all and all for one leader, has worked relentlessly hard over the years to get to where she is now. Her road to success was not easy and sometimes full of bumps, but tenacity, a strong will of character made it possible for her to jump through all the hoops with grace. She’s an example for Egyptian women who sometimes find it hard to establish a persona for themselves in a male dominated society. As we sat with her for an exclusive interview, we got to see some of that persistence she holds above all else. As Head of Marketing at Samsung Egypt, what are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned while holding such a powerful position? The most important thing I learned is that persistence and hard work continue to be very strong weapons to achieve success. Despite all the possible obstacles that one might face, never giving up is a golden key. Empowering my team is another success formula, as I strongly believe that no one can succeed alone. 40 March 2017
What are your tricks to remain up-to-date with all Do you ever find yourself not taken as seriously as the marketing and advertising hacks given that the the men who work in your field or that they are digital world keeps growing with every passing day? overshadowing your voice? How do you deal with it? A lot of reading is essential to me in all mediums I’m fortunate to say that such situations didn’t happen whether it’s online, magazines, books, papers, etc. In to me frequently. However, when they did occur, they addition to reading, staying in close contact with my were mostly on individual cases. Luckily, I was able to counterparts in other markets, other companies and prove the opposite through actions and outcomes. other industries helps a lot as well. What do you think is holding back women in Egypt?
What would you say is different between the marketing strategies used by Samsung in foreign I believe there is always a way for women in Egypt countries and in Egypt? to reach the highest possible levels, but only if THEY WANT TO. We can see around us great examples of Samsung Egypt is part of a huge corporation that is successful women across all social classes who were present worldwide. In Samsung Egypt, we follow the able to make it despite any cultural or social constraints. regional strategies for Samsung worldwide with a little With that being said, however, if a woman chooses to bit of localizations to address the nature of the Egyptian be in the dark rather than bear the effort of succeeding, market. she will always stay in the dark and that would be a bad influence for other women. The opposite is also true because if more women worked hard for what they What would you like to tell all the women who want, they would influence other women to do the are fighting hard to reach influential positions and same. Strong will power is a major key here. establish gender equality in Egypt? I would tell them to keep going and never give up no What are the advantages of being a woman in your matter what the obstacles are.The road to success might position? not be the easiest, but things worth fighting for never are. Achieving success is doable if you set goals for yourself I don’t see a difference between being a woman or a and work day and night to get to where you want. man in my position. It all depends on the “Skill Set” one possesses. Given your experience, would you say that women are finally prevailing and are starting to hold positions Your resume is impressive because of its diversity as equal to men? you have had many different work experiences; are you now achieving your career goals in Samsung? Is I believe women have been keeping a very good the work atmosphere woman friendly and gives you momentum in that front over the past 10 to 15 years the respect you deserve? where we were able to see great examples of successful Egyptian women in all fields. March 2017 41
IDENTITYempowerment
structure always reflects on your external work. My team is my backbone, and they are the propellant for any form of good work I do. In short, in order to excel in the PR field, you have to understand the concepts of transparency and love and to practice them with your team, because these are the two main components of what I call successful management. Do you feel like that there are certain tasks or jobs that you are not able to pursue, even at the prestigious level you have reached in your career?
ROWAIDAH BIBERS
On the contrary, I usually feel like I have the green light to do whatever task I want to do. My job necessitates that I form different working relationships with different sectors of the country. It’s safe to say that I have access to the different sectors of Egypt whether it be, the government, the ministries multinational companies or the media.
the PR Guru by Nour Younis
Rowaidah Bibers is a PR guru who studied Business Administration and Accounting at the University of New Brunswick. Rowaidah is currently working as the Managing Director of POD. She has excelled in the PR field on every measure and her secret is that she does not only regard PR as a job, but as a passion that she happened to be very talented at. You have reached a very impressive level in terms of PR; can you tell us more about your journey and why you chose PR as a career? Ten years ago, I didn’t know a thing about PR but the moment I started learning, I felt I had the necessary communications and social skills for the job. Being a very sociable person in my personal life also helped me to excel in the PR field. In fact, I took it as a challenge. I made it a point to start networking, and I really did. I never visit a place without making it a point to get to know someone new, even if that person is not related to my work. I’m very passionate about getting to know people in general, and I regard PR as a talent in itself.
This also the main reason I never faced any challenges in the PR field. How can PR be utilized in favour of businesses? In 2011, it’s safe to say that a lot of companies and businesses underwent several crises. Crisis management is one of the most important roles of the PR departments, because companies and businesses should know how to lobby, to be proactive and to be ready to handle or face different challenges that the company might face. That means that if any businesses or companies are not strong in terms of PR or corporate communication skills, they will be more prone to negative situations and crises. However, I believe that companies and corporations started to acknowledge the role of PR after the revolution. They now understand that communication is key to their success, whether it’s communication with the government, the media or with the internal labour force.
In your opinion what are the key factors necessary to excel in the PR field, and what are some of the As a woman, do you feel like you faced more factors that helped you succeed? challenges to reach your position in the PR field? Well, the PR field is actually dominated by more women than men. I personally believe that women do better than men specifically in our field, because women innately have the social and communication skills necessary for the job. The PR field is all about networking and dealing with different people, and women are better at doing that than men in general. 42 March 2017
As I mentioned earlier, PR is all about communication and being people smart. If you have good communication internally with your team, you will undoubtedly excel in your career. On the other hand, if you lack strong communication ties with your team or regard them as anything other than your own flesh and blood, you will most definitely fail. The inner working
How would you describe the professional world in Egypt? Do you believe that women are being granted the same opportunities as men? What would you suggest is the right action to ensure equal opportunities for both genders? I believe that successful women are capable of succeeding anywhere in the world regardless of the social pressures they might face. However, the problem is in the perceptions and traditions of the Middle East as a whole. We perceive women as these fragile creatures who are worth preserving. The good news, however, is that this perception is starting to change but it’s important to understand that the change won’t happen in one day. More women are taking leading roles as ministers for example. The change is happening and it will keep happening. All we have to do is remain patient and give it time. We are starting to learn our rights, fight for them and the best part is that we are acquiring a lot of these rights. The role of women in the community has really increased in the past few years, and more is yet to come.
In Egypt, it is often claimed that women can’t succeed in maintaining their professional lives without it affecting their home, family and personal life. What do you have to say about that, and do you agree? What advice do you have for other women who are looking to hold prosperous careers just like you? I can agree to a certain extent. The balance between work and home in Egypt has become very hard, I don’t believe in failure. It’s just not a word in my mainly because people are working extra hours. dictionary. I believe in challenges and I believe that we That situation is not exclusive to Egypt by the way; should be able to take on challenges and to carve our Germany for example faced the same problem so they ways into the world until we feel satisfied with our decided to include nurseries in big corporations. This lives. It is also important that we set our own success shows that work doesn’t only affect Egyptians when it goals and not let others tell us what to do and how comes to their personal lives and homes. It’s a global to be successful. Every woman should be looking for issue. I honestly believe that it’s very hard to balance her inner self satisfaction, because it is only through between work and home in general, which is why the self-satisfaction that you are able to defy all odds and smart thing to do is to find and adopt a policy when fight to become a better person at your career even trying to balance between your work and home. You when faced with the opportunity cost of having success have to know when to give to each and when to back affect your personal lives and families. We have to off. Honestly, there is no right way to do it. There is no believe in ourselves enough so that we can achieve our world measurement to the balance between work and dreams because at the end of the day, we are capable home. It all depends on the satisfaction of the woman of achieving whatever it is we want to achieve. The who is doing the decision making. It’s important that key is in these 4 points: First you have to love yourself, when she looks back on her life, she feels satisfied with second you have to love yourself, third to love yourself how she chose to spend her time whether investing in and finally to think of others. Women have to learn to her family or in her work. put their needs before others, because they will never succeed without loving themselves. Who would you say was your role model(s) growing up? And what did you look up to them for? What do you see yourself doing in the future? Queen Rania and Princess Diana are my role models. Mainly because they were or are very educated influential women who held great power and authority, yet managed to stay humble and down to earth. Also, any woman who chases her dreams is a role model to me.
I want to stay as motivated and passionate about my career and job as I am right now and to keep succeeding and going the extra milestones; I’m very satisfied with my life. The only thing that I really hope and dream of is a stable economic and political future for our beloved country Egypt. March 2017 43
IDENTITYempowerment
The Football Lover
LAILA ELGAMMAL and up-grading the overall experience at the school. Many of those ideas came from the background that I was looking at matters from a different angle than that of an “all-male” team. I could see many opportunities and locked potentials which were virtually transparent to a male’s eye. As a result, the management of Real Madrid Technical School had reached out for me to seek my consultation on professional basis. How did you overcome these hardships?
I wouldn’t label them as “hardships”; I would rather call them “challenges”. Basically, most of those challenges The football industry in Egypt is mostly dominated emerge out of trying to convince football coaches and by men; was it challenging to tap into the field as a technical supervisors that there is more to football woman? than hardcore training and competition, that Building a strong social bond between players and creating a Being a woman in a mostly “male dominant” industry fun, enjoyable and motivating environment is of equal is a very challenging issue. However, having the ability importance. to see things from the “other gender’s” perspective seems to be a factor which could add significant value. What were some of the most inspiring moments of All my life, I have been a true believer in sports. I’m your career? convinced that engaging kids in sports at an early stage is essential in building the foundations of their What inspires me the most is when I see the results character, and helping them develop high levels of self- of our work and efforts reflected on the young esteem, confidence and independence. These were players, whether on the pitch (development in their the reasons behind enrolling my kids at Real Madrid technical skills and physical abilities) or off the pitch Technical School. (improvement in their social behavior and wellbeing). As a parent, I used to attend most of the training sessions with my kids. I used to vigilantly observe the work What is your advice to young women who are trying process at the academy, and I had always presented my to make a name for themselves in the marketing field? comments and ideas to the management for improving 44 March 2017
• Team unity is more important to girls than boys. • Girls may place more emphasis on ‘fair play’ than boys who are more likely to bend the rules. • Boys are more likely than girls to blame other people (the referee, the weather, the coach) if they lose. Girls have a tendency to blame themselves for a poor performance. • For girls, winning is not as important as making sure every player gets an equal amount of playing time. • Boys appear to be more ‘self ’ or ‘ego’ oriented and tend to be more ‘win at any cost’ in their approach to sports.
Do you ever find yourself being professionally doubted because of your gender?
Is the percentage of girls who are enrolled at the academy equal to that of the boys’?
In some situations, I find myself being doubted by some people because of my gender. But as soon as I start working closely with them, those doubts begin to fade away on the spot. It is all about believing in one’s capabilities and being capable of reflecting this on others, regardless of their prejudices.
by Farah Khedre
Laila El Gammal is the Marketing Manager of Fame Academy, an Egyptian company that aims at developing the football industry in Egypt in many ways. Its work scope involves the establishment of football academies that contribute to the development of football skills on a technical level, and the development of the society on a social level based on a community services front. She is a fulltime working mom who has a passion for sports and dreams to expand the industry in Egypt and make it inclusive to all genders.
My advice to any woman trying to build her career at any field is to be confident in her abilities and understand that being a woman is a great advantage (not an obstacle), as you view things differently thus, add benefit and value to any organization. Be courageous and never be afraid to ask, since learning is an ongoing process. Don’t be skeptical, as you should always experiment and try new methods and approaches. Always communicate with experts and people of more experience; invest time and effort in developing your skills and expertise. I know this might sound out of vogue, but trust me it always works.
At this stage, the vast majority of participants are males. It has always been a down side that female participation in football has long been discouraged in Egypt. However, girls’ interest in playing football is on the rise, even though the scale and speed of this growth is still not measured accurately. One thing is for certain; all football academies have to gear up for accommodating What is your opinion regarding the current status female football and preparing to build the appropriate of women in your field? Do you think more women technical/training infrastructure for it. are tapping into it, or is it still a field that is mostly dominated by men? A marketing manager’s job is extremely demanding and time consuming; what are your tricks for balancing To be honest, the level of women penetration in this your work and your personal life? field is still pretty low. However, I’m confident that with time, the number of women who will be joining this Being a full-time working mother can lead to feelings field will increase significantly. of guilt and stress because of divided attention between work and family. The key is to focus on a In your line of work, do you get to meet and deal plan, get organized and find the right balance between with a lot of kids and their parents? If so, do you see profession and parenthood. Therefore, effectively any differentiations between the ways they raise their organizing your family’s time and on the other hand, boys and how they raise their girls? openly communicating your priorities with your partner and employer will surely lead to a balanced life and thus Working closely with parents, made me realize that they will provide you with the sense of achievement and tend to become more “over protective” towards girls enjoyment with the least sense of guilt. in comparison to boys. Many of them fail to recognize the “hidden” athletic values that girls possess. Even What are your plans for the future? though researches into gender differences pertaining to football is still narrow, sports experts confirm, through Our vision at Real Madrid Technical School is to be experience, that females, in general, are more internally the focus for inclusive, safe, top quality and successful motivated by self improvement and goals related football development in Egypt. We also aim at increasing to team success and appear more motivated by a participation and improvement in the sport at all levels, cooperative, caring, and sharing team environment. In a and thereby encourage good health, wellbeing and nutshell, below are the main differences that distinguish sportsmanship. girls from boys in relation to sports in general: My plans for the future is to help Real Madrid Technical School to retain and grow provision and develop • Girls tend to be more analytical than boys. This flexible club formats that will support existing players means girls will not take generalities at face value. They and introduce new male, female, players with a will want to know why they should do something in a disability and from diverse communities/backgrounds particular way more than boys will. into football. March 2017 45
IDENTITYempowerment
The Always Curious and Ready to Explore
INDJI GHATTAS! by Farah Khedre
The TEDTalks obsessed Indji Ghattas learned independence earlier than most, at the age of 12 she got her first job and realized that there’s more to life than depending on your parents for support. She runs the Harley Davidson dealership by morning and turns badass by night. Her friends often joke that if they opened up her blood vessels, they would find motorcycles moving around. But there’s more to Ghattas than Harleys, read more to find out!
back as we get to relax and take snack, bathroom and coffee breaks. It’s only hectic because of the borders and because the region is difficult. We usually go on the course of two days unlike riding to Luxor, which is much tougher because we drive 760 kilometers a day and take no stops. How does riding make you feel?
I say this a lot but the closest feeling you’ll get to flying is riding. You feel like a bird with everything levitating You run a Harley-Davidson dealership in Egypt, a you off the floor. country fueled by gender inequality, so what are some of the hardest moments you had to go through When did you first start developing your passion to defy stereotypes? towards Harleys? I didn’t experience a lot of inequality in my line of work. On the contrary, I think it was a big plus – me being a woman conquering a man’s world. When we’re on the road, I get a lot of thumbs up from men and women for riding a Harley. I honestly can’t say that I felt unequal, but the riders usually try to make sure I’m safe. It’s not inequality; it’s them being gentlemen.
I was with my father in the US and we were coming out of the hotel when he told me, “Indji come, let me show you this bike.” I remember very well that it was an Ultra. I was so obsessed with the idea that I can ride on that and not fall. My father is not into riding, but I kept obsessing over the idea of how I can get on that bike. Then it totally went away and I never had the passion again until we took over the brand. The truth is Do you ever feel like you’re being undermined/ that Harleys either grow on you or not, and over the disrespected as a woman in your field? years, it grew on me too much and no one or anything could ever make me leave Harley Davidson. In the beginning, I felt undermined, but not disrespected. When people would walk into the store, they would Do you know any of the other few women who ride ask, “Is there a guy we can talk to?” because they would Harleys in Egypt? think ‘ugh, another woman, what would she know’ because it’s all bikes and oils and chroming which is In 2016, we got together for at least five or six times. supposed to be manly machines. But after a while, I We did a women’s only ride and had a one day photo established a name for myself and proved that I’m just session, one day for breast cancer awareness and one as capable as any man in my field. day for violence against women. On the day for the UN Women Against Violence, I led the formation which consisted of 90 bikes in total, 12 women and the rest were men. I led the way with the women behind me On some weekends, we ride to Sokhna or halfway while the men followed. This marked the first time for to Sahrawy, but my favorite rides are the long ones. I Egypt to have a woman lead the formation. The men rode to Luxor and Lebanon once and to Jordan four were there to support us and our causes. times. The road to Lebanon and Jordan is quite laid How did your family’s support make a difference How often do you get to ride?
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should have equally to men such as being offered the same opportunities, getting the same promotions and salary, but men will be men and women will be women. There are some aspects where men and women shouldn’t be equal because each has a different role to play. Who would you say is your role model? Every woman who goes after her dreams and never gives up is a role model to me. Also, my grandfather who was a handcrafting man who did everything with his own hands and opened up many doors for me. What would you advise young girls and boys? I would advise them not to waste their time. It makes me so sad that the new generation is wasting so much time on this technology-infested world. I now find myself wishing that I had read more and had done more when I had the luxury of time. I’m fortunate to say that I did everything I can with it. My advice to them is that if they had to get bored then get bored of doing too many things, but not because you’re doing nothing with your time. Every child is born with a talent, but parents don’t invest much time in learning what their child’s talent is. They should help develop it because throughout your journey to get to where you are without these talents, the world will suffer. Lastly, I urge now? parents to let their children explore. Stop telling little boys not to play with dolls and little girls to stick to My mother and father were scared and worried as them. I played with dolls all my life. I was the doll of parents, but my mom always pushed me to go and try all dolls and had the full Barbie collection, and now I things. I’d tell her I’m going for 2 weeks to ride my bike grew up to become someone who likes guns, knives on an adventure and she’d be like ‘Ok’, but of course and motorcycles. with a hint of worry in her tone. What are your plans for your future? Do you see any difference in Egyptians’ muddled perception towards women tapping into fields that For Harley, I really hope that people would understand were culturally associated with men, from when you that riding motorcycles is pure pleasure and I would first started and now? like to put emphasis on pure as it has nothing to do with status. I took over Porsche about 6 months ago, I don’t like the idea that there are fields for men and because I was starting to get too laid-back. Sticking with others for women. Human beings, history and culture the same brand for too long makes you lazy as you fall developed the discriminations that we’re all fighting into a routine and I’m a person who works well under against now, but the world initially wasn’t meant to be pressure; I need to be really intimidated to work well. this way. On all levels, whether it’s politics, business or medicine, I see women breaking grounds very strongly Cooking is a passion of mine, so hopefully I’ll get to lately. travel to France and take the cooking course I’ve been enthusiastic about for so long now. I wish my dog, Sky, What do you think women should do to be perceived and my owl, Sugar stay happy and healthy. I wish I could as equal to men? go on at least one trip abroad to Croatia, Tibet, St. Petersburg or Tanzania. My intuition tells me it’s going Women will never be perceived as equal to men and to be a super year. I don’t think they should be. There are rights I believe I March 2017 47
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HANAN YOUSSEF
Painting the World on Her Canvas by Nour Younis
Hanan Youssef is an established Egyptian artist who has attended different workshops in Italy and Egypt in order to further explore the art field. Her multicultural upbringing has clearly affected her work. It is safe to say that her paintings are truly inspirational. In fact, some would go an extra mile and claim that many of her art pieces are regarded as masterpieces! Tell us more about your journey; why did you choose to become an artist?
to name a few, in addition to some solo exhibitions as well. For starters, I did “Asalit Baladna”, which consisted of oil paintings in 2014 and was a solo exhibition at “Atelier al Qahira”. Then in 2015, I did “The Charm of Water” at “Duroub Gallery” in Garden City, which was all water colours. I usually paint with oil, pastels and water colours. Last but not least, I had two joint exhibitions in 2016; the first one “Nuba” exhibition was I started taking my painting to the next level after after a trip we had to the lovely Nubian villages with a the Egyptian revolution in 2011. I had been painting few very talented Egyptian artists. And the second and for years till there was no longer space in my house my latest exhibition took place at the Opera House to hang my paintings. My family were always very and was all about movement and expressions. It was supportive; they encouraged me to take my next step. a combination of water colours, pastels and oil paints. By that time, I’ve had a few minor joint exhibitions, but I consider the “Art & Soul” exhibition which was held How would you describe the art market in Egypt, and in 2012 at the Cairo Opera House – Salah Taher Hall what do you think are some ways by which it could – to be my first exhibition as a professional artist. It get more attention? was an accumulation of years of working with different mediums and styles. I think it’s already starting to expand since the 2011 revolution. In the past 10 to 15 years, I felt like the art It was a very positive experience, and it gave me market in Egypt was in decline. Artists were tied up the push and courage to move forward with my art. by political and religious ropes that stopped them from Since then, I’ve had many collective exhibitions at the showing their true art; artists must have the freedom Opera House, Art Corner Gallery and Nadim Gallery to imagine and innovate. I’ve always loved painting. I graduated as an architectural engineer, which in my opinion is a form of art, but painting was always my first passion. I’ve attended many workshops in Egypt and Italy, and I love experimenting with new types of paint, styles and textures and seeing where each would take me.
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What would you say is the role of women when it What are some of the challenges you faced as a comes to art in Egypt nowadays? Do you feel like woman in the art field and how did you manage to they’re leaving their distinct footprint, or are their tackle them? roles considered minor compared to men? I feel the major challenge I’m always faced with is The role of women in art has increased dramatically where and how to present my art. One needs to find in the past few years. Even though there are many a proper gallery to showcase his/her work, and this is amateurs and imitators, eventually only the talented very difficult. Many galleries are owned by the artist ones whether men or women remain. I feel that exhibiting, or the process of choosing is carried out in a women always had a distinct footprint in art, women very biased or unprofessional manner. like Zeinab El Sigeeny, Tahia Haleem, Injy Aflatoon and Gazbia Sirry to name a few. I have had the good fortune to deal with a few respectable galleries, but this remains to be a big issue What exhibition did you find most challenging or with me and many other artists. rewarding to curate? What does being creative mean to you? I’m constantly challenging myself; changing styles, mediums and subjects. Every exhibition has a different “Being creative” in my opinion is producing art that is taste to it, but maybe I can single out my 2015 water innovative, expresses me and is pleasant to own. colour exhibition. Every once in a while, I have something to say through I had been painting with water colours for years, while my art, but I mostly paint because it makes me happy. not realizing how difficult a medium it’s considered for Hopefully, the happiness in my paintings will be many artists. The positive feedback was very rewarding contagious. for me. What are you trying to communicate with your art? How would you say that art has changed during the past 5 to 6 years? Every painting or exhibition conveys a different message, depending on my mood or my surroundings. I am very happy to say this. I believe many artists have My first exhibition was at the height of the revolution, started to express their political views in their art. Many and with many exhibitions revolving around the horror prominent female artists have also started to emerge of the revolution, my exhibition was a message of hope. into the art scene in Egypt and the art of sculpture is My subjects had sad eyes, but they were very colourful. definitely making a comeback, I felt that it had dropped My landscapes featured the beautiful Egyptian beaches, lately. boats and countryside. Do you think the government gives enough support I was trying to convey the resilience in each of us that to the art world? even though we may be going through tough times, but with hope we can overcome our hardships. I think that may be at this stage the government has other priorities; the art world not being one of them. Where do you get your inspirations/ideas from? The art scene is withheld by individuals and personal efforts only. If only people knew the importance of art Sometimes, my inspiration would be a place I have and culture to the progress of nations!!! visited with its landscape, culture and faces. Other times, I would just go into my studio and paint whatever In what way do you feel that your art engages with comes to me at the time. the Egyptian people? What are your goals for the future? I feel that my art is the combination of my life experiences; I’ve had a multicultural upbringing and My goals are to keep painting and experimenting, and I think this shows in my art. All my landscapes are hopefully my feelings and experiences will be shared inspired by Egypt and the expressive Egyptian faces. with as many people as possible March 2017 49
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NORSHEK the Fitness Fanatic by Nour Younis
probably one of its kind, came naturally. Having fitness as a passion and a job helped me maintain that lifestyle; I was motivated to practice what I preach and also boss people around the field - lol
Norshek Fawzy is an entrepreneur and a fit busy mother of two who is passionate about health and body wellness. She debuted her career by founding the BootCamp in 2010 which was regarded as the first of its kind in Egypt before launching The Wellness Log, the first online customized workout and nutrient provider in the country. Norshek is also a certified parental and postnatal trainer.
We noticed that there aren’t many Egyptian women in your field; what do you have to say about that? Do you agree? I actually disagree; I’ve seen plenty of women get into the fitness field in the last couple of years. As a woman, do you feel like you have faced more challenges to reach your position than your male counterparts?
Fitness wise, no! Business wise, definitely yes. I’ve been talked over during meetings and had my professional What made you decide to venture into the fitness opinion dismissed by men, but it really helped having business field, and how would you say it added to a supportive husband and business partner. He always made sure I stood up for myself and got the respect I your life? deserve. I’ve always been athletic, played football and track and field for as long as I can remember. Until Nabil and I met, fitness to me was just that annoying hour at the How do you keep your fitness training knowledge up beginning of practice. He very easily changed that, to date? and it got me interested in the field. I studied a lot and attended courses and workshops, mainly out of I follow reliable research sources, and attend any curiosity. Starting The BootCamp, which in 2010 was interesting workshops I can find whenever I’m abroad. 50 March 2017
Can you tell us more about the Wellness Log, and interferes with your private life and family? What do how do you believe it could be of added value to you do to escape and have your own private social those who are looking to maintain a healthy life? life? The Wellness Log is a program that is personalized to your every need. If anyone wishes to reach any target, they can do so by ordering a program from The Wellness Log, and our team customizes it 100%.
It doesn’t, no. I choose what to share, and what to keep private. It doesn’t matter how many people see or know about the things you share. Even if it’s one person, that makes it not-private. It’s not really about the number of followers. I actually find support in those who find me inspiring (although I struggle to understand why they To many people, you are regarded as supermom do). Whenever I’m down, I get a private message from mainly because of your busy schedule, being a someone with exactly what I need to hear. businesswoman and a mom at the same time. How do you manage to balance between the two? What would you say is the role of the digital world Now that my kids both go to nursery it’s much easier. and social media when it comes to your industry? I act as if I’m done with work at 3:30, but that’s never the case. I explain to my kids that I have work I need HUGE!!! It’s shaping the industry. We moved 100% to get done, and try to balance my time between them online, and we now target clients all around the world and other responsibilities. But I’d like to maintain that especially with Jumpsuite - which is the first global supermom image if possible; I’d also appreciate a cape! marketplace for fitness and nutrition programs. What strategies do you use to increase your client base?
What advice do you have for other working mothers who are looking to have it all just like you?
Mainly offer quality service. For 3 years, we didn’t spend a dime on marketing. People who used our Let me just say that I’m flattered with all the ‘inspiring, service usually talked about us and we all know that no super mom and having it just like me’ talk. Really!! My marketing is better than the word of mouth. one and only advice to working moms is to delegate at work, at home and with kids. Delegate! You cannot and will not do it all. Choose what to miss here and there, We know for a fact that you chose to move to Gouna and don’t beat yourself up about it. Once you decide, with your family and that you are managing your let it go! business from there. Can you tell us more about that shift? What made you decide to make it, and what are some of the obstacles you faced? What do you see yourself doing in the future? We decided we’ve had enough of Cairo stress honestly. The move was mainly for the kids. We want to raise happy kids, and kids are influenced by their parents and the people around them. Moving away from traffic, pollution, etc was a very very logical solution.
I’d hope to see myself running an NGO that helps kids in all aspects, raises awareness about safety measures such as car seats and teaches parents how to deal with certain issues. A place that people like Amina Diab can use as a centre to coach parents of underprivileged kids about positive parenting.
To many people, you are regarded as one of the most inspirational fitness icons, would you say that it March 2017 51
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Planning a Life with
REHAM EL EZABY by Farah Khedre Working in events is not a 9-5 job where you finish and go home to your family; it involves very tight deadlines for submissions and stressful nights of build-ups. Being a wife and a mom before all puts additional pressure on how to manage time and be able to fulfill your duties at both ends. Overcoming these challenges over the years You’re currently working as the Events Regional wasn’t easy, but progressive. I can work from home Account Director of Viola Communications; can you when needed now knowing that I have a capable team tell us more about your role and why did you choose to deliver and a loving hubby to support me. it? Initially, you had worked in the Dubai branch of Viola I’ve been working in Viola Communications since Communications. Now that you moved to Egypt’s 2008. My current role as an Account Director includes branch, are there any noticeable differences in the different responsibilities that involve creating the event way women are treated in the working field between concept and strategy, establishing and maintaining strong the two countries?
Reham El Ezaby is creative, down to earth and always ready to lend a hand. She runs a tight ship both at work and at home. Taking a little time out of her busy schedule, Reham sheds light on the nature of her work and gives us a scoop about her life!
relations with existing and potential clients, managing the events team to deliver effective performance at all levels as well as formulating new business proposals in synergy with different business units and within the main strategic plan. I started out at the age of 15 by working as an usher in corporate events and exhibitions and kept following my passion, and here I am today.
I think the main difference would be for some men to accept direction from a woman especially if you’re younger, despite years of experience and background. I think men in Egypt are not in favor of such combination. Not that I’m facing this here, but I have seen it somewhere else unfortunately. Where in the UAE, you work with different nationalities, cultures What challenges do you usually face, as a woman, in and age groups and yet everyone is up to his role, and this field? And how would you say you were able to such issues are just neglected. surmount them? 52 March 2017
What do you like most about your job? How do you Describe a time when you felt very successful in your stay motivated when things don’t go as planned? work. What do you think you did that made it so successful? I love the fact that we bring ideas into live experiences and memories that last. Anything can inspire you. Believe Throughout the years, I’ve worked on numerous it or not, but there was a time when my son’s cartoon prestigious events on international scales and presence, inspired a whole set of stage designs! What keeps me but the closest one to my heart was for one of our going is knowing that I did my best within my abilities, shopping mall clients who aimed to celebrate Mother’s resources and available time frame. Day. Briefly, we wanted to capture moments of unconditional love and appreciation via video footage. What is your viewpoint of your job as a whole, and We were supposed to share the love and reward them do you feel like women are the right candidates for with surprising gifts, thus creating a memorable and this job? Why? emotional experience. The event reached out to more than 25,000 mall visitors on the day of the event. It’s I think women can literally do anything; working in safe to say we saw lots of tears and shed a lot more events is stressful and demanding like many other jobs which is something I will never forget. The event also women succeed at. It’s all about how you find the won the prestigious 2014 MECSC/ICSC Gold Award balance and effectively utilize your resources and talents For Marketing Excellence. to the best outcome for your family and career. What are some of the tactics you use to persuade a What would you say is your definition of success in client of the value of your services? both your work and personal life? Most people perceive event planning as producing I’m grateful for the loving and supportive family and a nice design, adding some A/V support and maybe friends. I have achieved so much in my career, and I getting an interesting entertainment act to complement couldn’t feel more grateful as my work has allowed me the set-up. In reality, it’s about creating an experience to make friends for life and work with amazing talents that achieves a goal and captures moments that last in from different parts of the world. My once-upon-a-time our memory. It starts with understanding the objectives fresh grad team all became successful senior managers of the event itself, studying the target audience to reach and this is what mostly makes me proud. My team and them effectively and accordingly, defining the scope of I have won awards, got respectful recognition from services. We always aim to provide a comprehensive various clients and government entities. We have got solution that fulfills different aspects of the marketing more than 8 shortlisted nominations over the past 2 strategy within given timeline and according to the years at the Middle East Events Awards apart from the client’s budget rather than just a nice design and ones we won. It hasn’t been easy because it never is, but supporting services. I have made it through all the personal and professional challenges I have faced throughout the years. I’m glad to Can you name the biggest lesson you’ve learned be exactly where I am today, because it’s a true blessing throughout your life, both personally and that I have worked relentlessly hard for. professionally? We realize that your job is very demanding, so how I would have to say that I’ve learned not to blame the would you say that you manage your time? Do you circumstances or other people for where I am today. feel like it affects your personal life and family? To keep going until you get what you want one day! I also learned that nothing lasts forever, whether it’s your Pre-planning and setting priorities are major keys. I success or your failures, everything will pass. The key is always try to put my family first regardless of my way of to learn the lessons through all of it and never give up. doing it. I’ve got someone to assist with house chores, and I make sure I spend quality time with my husband What are your goals for the future? and son every day. Yet, I think the dilemma of every working mother is that feeling of guilt. It will always be I want to work for the Egyptian government. I want to there, because simply you can never get enough of your be responsible for handling all their events internally loved ones. However, I have an understanding husband and abroad. I also want to take part of our country’s who supports the concept of a working woman/ future image, because we should all take pride of who mother. Besides, he has a strong passion for cooking we are and what we can achieve. and that literally saves the day, everyday. March 2017 53
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ASSIA
Healthy Has Never Been This Yummy!
because this helps me be a better mother and wife. It motivates me to become a better woman and helps me to cope with the daily routine.
by Nour Younis
Assia is a 33 year old Moroccan mother of two. She’s also an author, TV presenter, brand ambassador, food photographer, food stylist, recipe developer and food expert who is all about making healthy and delicious meals that replace the need to eat fast food.
We know for a fact that you studied Political Science I don’t like to waste my time and energy watching what in college, would you care to tell us what was behind others do or offer; I only like to focus on my own brand the major shift to the food industry? and my own offerings. I want my audience and fans to identify my brand without even seeing the logo and I was never really satisfied with what I studied; I was this requires so much work from my side concerning looking for something that would really make me enjoy the idea, the styling, the components and the recipes. myself and reach a high level of self-achievement. I Thankfully, I have managed over the past few years to wanted to build a career around my passion, and for build an identity and I wish to capitalize on that. me this was the main reason I was attracted to the food industry. Being a Moroccan who studied in France, then getting married to an Egyptian and moving to live As an influencer who has over 1.6 million followers in Dubai also played a big role. I was exposed to many on different social media platforms, what would you cultures and cuisines, and that helped me get very say is the role of social media in the food industry? creative with my recipes. And what are some of the tactics that you use to make sure you get the most efficient level of social media penetration? We realize that you’re a brand ambassador to several international food brands; could you elaborate I never consider my fans to be virtual friends or people. more on what you do as a brand ambassador? What I always feel they are real people, members of my family message do you wish to send out to your fans and whom I genuinely care about and hence the way I followers? approach them is different. I deal with them on a more personal level, and I think this is crucial for the success Being a brand ambassador means you have to set a of any brand. I strive to build a trusting relationship with very representable image for the brand. It also requires them, and make them feel that I’m a credible figure. I that you become an inspiring role model for all women care more to have 50 thousand followers who believe out there. I also need to come up with new ‘out of in me rather than 1 million who don’t like anything I do. the box’ recipes using the brand products, as well as actively present the brand online, on all of the social media channels of the brand as well as my personal As a mother and an inspiring working woman, how ones. do you manage to balance between your demanding work schedule and your time with your family and friends? It is no secret that cooking and food styling have become sort of a trend nowadays, so we can’t help Of course, it is not always balanced. Many times, I find but wonder how do you create an edge for yourself? myself tilting more towards my work or giving it more time and effort. I’m thankful I’m a busy mom though, 54 March 2017
What would you say is your biggest success so far, and why do you regard it as such? I’m very proud to have written 5 books in 4 years. Everything can go, but the book and its value will remain forever. What do you believe makes your recipes stand out than other colleagues in your field? As I mentioned earlier, I’m a Moroccan who studied in Paris and is now based in Dubai and married to an Egyptian. All these factors combined gave me exposure to a lot of cuisines. The Moroccan cuisine is also a very flexible one with no limits, and is open to all different styles of cooking. It has a very interesting history and embraces many of the authentic old ways of cooking. This helped me a lot to possess control over my recipes.
What do you see yourself doing in the future?
Do you have any advice for other women who are I wish I can be like the famous producer Assia who was living in the 60s. I will be different because I’m a looking to follow in your footstep? food producer, but I wish to be like her. I’m enjoying You have to enjoy each and every step until you reach the journey so far, and every step is an addition to my the top. Don’t strive to reach success fast because if learning curve. Even if I failed, I consider each step to you do, it will fade away quickly. The slower you get to contribute to my success in a way or another. the top, the more stable and successful your career will be. Would you like to add anything else? I found that many women are inspired by my style in fashion. I tend to represent conservative women living Any woman who managed to get over the boundaries in the Middle East who know how to dress well, be of her house walls and create something big from fashionable, embrace the trendy colours and styles yet nothing is a real role model for me and is worth all the remain modest looking. My clothes have become an important ingredient in my overall image. respect. Who is your role model and why?
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IDENTITYout&about
Orange Data Acquires the ISO 14001 certificate in the field of Environmental Management and the OHSAS 18001 on Occupational Health and Safety
MOTO Z:
THE THINNEST SMARTPHONE IN THE WORLD
that truly revolutionises the industry of phone as we know it. These mods attach to the back of the phone with magnets. Among these mods, are the the Moto Z Insta-Share projector,the Hasselblad True Zoom mod, the JBL Sound boost speak mod and the battery mod
In continuation of its social and environmental responsibility the company has been giving priority to since its inception in May 1998; Orange Data announced acquiring the ISO 14001 and the OHSAS 18001 certificates. This achievement comes as a result of its efforts to develop performance over the past few years, extending the scope of environmental management, occupational safety and health of the company. The acquisition of these certificates was a result of Orange introducing several updates on all the activities, buildings and systems running the company.
Finally, the phone is equipped with a fingerprint sensor found on the front of the phone allowing you to unlock it with just the comfort of pressing your fingertips.
The company has been put under testing and monitoring to ensure compliance with the requirements of both the ISO 14001 and the OHSAS 18001certificates.
The Verdict Finally, It is of no doubt that Motorola’s take on a modular smartphone with the new Moto Z is As for the display, well it is considered one of the definitely stronger than anything we’ve seen before. phone’s strongest features. With its 2,560 x 1,440 The attachable mods definitely give the phone an resolution, the display amounts to an approximate edge, but it is also important to note that even of 535 pixels per inch. That makes viewing photos without the mods the new Moto Z comes off as a pleasant experience since the display is obviously pretty powerful phone when compared to other both bold and vibrant! smart phones. Not to mention that it’s stylish and easy on the eyes! It’s the perfect combination for The Moto Z is also convenient when it comes to day to every phone fanatic who seeks both style and power. day performance. While using it I never encountered any slow down or jitteriness. This is because, Inside Moto Z Features and Characteristics the Moto Z, sits a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 Brand: Lenovo processor, a generous 4GB of RAM, and a 32 GB Operating System Type: Android storage making the phone perfect for daily use Storage Capacity: 32 GB Depth: 5.2 mm As for the camera, the Moto Z has a 13 megapixel rear Width:75.3 mm camera with a f/1.8 aperture lens and a sensor with Processor Type: Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 1.12um size pixels. As you can see all this plays in the 820 camera’s performance favour since it gives photos CPU Speed: 2.15 GHz rich vibrancy to the colors and plenty of sharpness. it RAM Memory: 4 GB is also important to note that the autofocus is quick Front Camera: 5 MP enough not to allow shutter lags when taking photos CPU: Dual Core Model Number: Moto Z The Moto Z also provides you with an opportunity Item EAN: 2724333054360 to add modular accessories to its already innovative Megapixel:13 MP characteristics. This we believe is a stepping stone Screen Size: 5.1 to 6 Inch
Jean Marc Harion, Orange Egypt CEO, expressed his happiness with this international recognition, saying, “We are proud to obtain these certificates with the company harnessing all efforts and energies to pass the tests. By acquiring the ISO 14001 and the OHSAS 18001 certificates, this puts strict procedures and a high standard on all aspects of quality of services provided, and ensures world-class quality for Orange Egypt’s customers. Acquiring these new certificates will help us improve performance and increase production efficiency, as well as provide better services to our customers.”
With the recent spike of phone prices, the Moto Z phone felt like the right phone to buy, since it had just the right characteristics for your daily needs, and quite honestly it has been receiving a lot of fuss, that it appears to be the perfect gadget for any millennial. What’s very noticeable about the phone is, once you pick it up you won’t help but notice how thin the phone is. The Moto Z is 5.2 millimetres width which makes it the thinnest phone in the world! How is that possible you would ask? Well, that is because of a lot of factors, among which is, the fact that the Moto Z doesn’t have an earphones jack. But don’t worry because they provide you with an adaptor for that!
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Jean Marc Harion, Orange Egypt CEO
Wholesale Officer said, “Orange acquiring these certifications confirms the company’s continued careful monitoring of safety, environment, health systems and occupational health in addition to its continuous development of this area using state-ofthe-art technologies to maintain health and safety of all employees.” It is noteworthy that Orange Egypt (formerly Mobinil) was the first telecommunications company in the Middle East and North Africa, to acquire the ISO 14001 certificate in 2001, acting as acknowledgement of international entities to the fact that Orange Egypt applies an effective environmental management system, with the main objective of protecting the environment, maintaining natural resources and reducing energy consumption.
“Orange Data’s employees are exposed to many risks while on duty especially during the external fittings, which requires taking into account the strict safety systems to maintain their safety and the safety of the public. Being bound by the environment and health certificates’ terms and professional integrity is among Orange Egypt’s priorities,” he added. In the same context, Rana Abbadi, Orange Egypt’s Chief Regulatory and March 2017 57
Dusit Thani LakeView Hotel
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TreatYour Queen
THE ULTIMATE DINNING Mother’s day buffet and indulgent EXPERIENCE FOR MOTHER’S spa specials, it’s never been easier to DAY AT THE NILE RITZ- show mom how much you care. CARLTON, CAIRO On Tuesday, March 21st treat The Ultimate Dinning Experience Mom to a spectacular, hassle-free for Mother’s Day at The Nile Ritz- Mother’s day buffet filled with delightful selection of breads, soups, Carlton, Cairo Celebrate Mother’s Day at The Nile salads, entrees, desserts and more. Ritz-Carlton, Cairo and create an Mom will enjoy a complimentary meal when dining with three paying unforgettable Mother’s Day. guests. Bab El Sharq invites you to celebrate generations of motherhood with For the ultimate Mother’s day gift, the amazing mothers in your life indulge mum with one of the special while enjoying a delicious family Mother’s day offerings at the spa. sharing menu inspired by three Don’t miss Dusit Gourmet’s sweets that are sure to please mom’s sweet different Arabian generations. For a memorable family gathering tooth. select Culina – where you will enjoy a buffet-style lunch that features a MOTHER’S DAY IS SPECIAL AT JW MARRIOTT CAIRO wide array of global delicacies. HOTEL. The Nile Ritz-Carlton has something special for both your parents this Bring mom to Mirage Café year. Vivo has crafted two exquisite for a sumptuous dinner buffet three and five course menus that overlooking the Golf course with are offered to those who wish to its stunning landscape, this casual take their mothers or fathers on a restaurant blends flavours from east and west, offering a unique dining private date. experience. If you are looking for an The spa packages for this occasion outdoor venue to spoil mom and for two guests is EGP 2700 the family, head to “Plateau”; the latest venue at JW Marriott where exclusive of all applicable taxes. moms receive a complimentary CELEBRATE MOM WITH AN meal when dining with a family of UNFORGETTABLE MOTHER’S four. DAY GETAWAY AT DUSIT Give your mom the gift of time and THANI LAKEVIEW HOTEL relaxation at Mandara Spa; offering This Mother’s day, celebrate Mom’s exclusive spa treatment package special place in your life with an from 21st – 23rd March 2017. The unforgettable getaway at Dusit package comprises of 30 minute Thani LakeView Hotel. With a lavish body scrub of her choice, 30 minute 58 March 2017
express facial, followed by 60 minute Swedish or Aromatherapy massage and refreshment in spa relaxation area. CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY FOR A WHOLE MONTH AT ROYAL MAXIM PALACE KEMPINSKI! This month rejoice with luxury at Kempinski’s signature restaurants; accompany your beloved family to The State- buffet, Lucca- Italian cuisine, Yana- Thai restaurant, or Romanov- grill house for a special culinary journey. Experience a special family event at Vibes Lounge and terrace on March 24 for a special High Tea Time from 12:00 pm- 6:00 pm serving finger delicacies along with live entertainment. Le Petit Royal, kids club, will provide several children’s activities to keep the little ones entertained.
Pamper your queen at Resense Spa with exclusive packages and offers during the entire month of March. The packages vary like featuring a 3-hour spa treatment, manicure or pedicure, anti-aging facial, and a full body massage. RENAISSANCE CAIRO MIRAGE CITY HOTEL CELEBRATES MOTHER’S DAY It is the day for family get-togethers and there is no one more special than Mum on Mother’s Day, celebrate all that she has been to the family and show everyone’s appreciation and love for her at Renaissance Cairo Mirage city hotel . Discover Chinese speciality with the whole family at Chinoix. Mothers will enjoy complimentary dinner for every table of at least four persons. For a contemporary atmosphere, head to Citron and delight in a lavish
international dinner buffet with the How about a cup of an afternoon family where Mum will dine for free tea along with one of her favourite for every three paying guests. irresistible freshly baked dessert from our Fauchon - Salon de Thé. Make her feel extra special and devour one of our heavenly cakes Treat her to a day of luxurious spa prepared specially for your mum at treatments at Bien Vivre. En Passant. Go ahead and spoil your mum. She PAMPER YOUR MOM AT deserves it! SONESTA HOTEL, TOWER & CASINO - CAIRO RAMSES HILTON MOTHER’S DAY ACTIVITIES Mothers are the moon that shines our lives; indulge her in her special Mother’s Day restaurants offer: day at the Italian restaurant “La MOMS EAT FREE! Gondola” while we will help you When dining with her family at to say Thank You to the most “Maharaja” India Restaurant passionate person in your life, by or Breezes Lounge & Grill creating the inspiring ambiance Tuesday March 21st, 2017 with a special red rose and complimentary cake for her. Mother’s Day room offer: Spoil your MOM and let her get Indulge her in the Lebanese way at a bit of rest and relaxation in her our famous “Baalbak” Restaurant special day! while enjoying the oriental live entertainment. Ask about Mother’s day special offer March 2017 59
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Marriot Reimagines its Mobile App to Meet the Needs of Modern World Travellers App puts power in the hands of Marriott Rewards members to personalize their travel experience
Based on the foundation of actual hands-on guest research and feedback, Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) will now offer Marriott Rewards members a dynamic mobile experience personalized for them. Guests will enjoy new and expanded digital features; customized travel content; simple, one-button navigation; and a new swipe-able discovery home screen.
Hilton Sharm El Sheikh Hotels Welcome Egyptian Media Delegation Building on its long-term relation with its valued Egyptian media partners, Hilton hotels in Sharm El Sheikh welcomed a group of lifestyle media on a four-day trip to tour the city’s four Hilton resorts. Hilton’s portfolio of Sharm El Sheikh properties includes: Hilton Sharm Dreams Resort, Hilton Sharm El Sheikh Fayrouz Resort, Hilton Sharks Bay Resort and Hilton Sharm Waterfalls Resort. The media were welcomed by the general managers and management team of the four hotels.
The new Marriott Mobile app breaks the mold of typical hospitality apps, by going beyond transactions and one-size-fits-all content. For Marriott Rewards members, the new Marriott Mobile app dynamically adjusts to personalize the user’s experience throughout their travel journey. Whether members are in trip planning mode, getting ready to travel, in transit, or enjoying their hotel stay, the app will display content and features based on what services members are most likely to need in that moment of their travel journey. “Many people have an emotional connection with their mobile devices and apps they’ve downloaded. Therefore, it makes sense that we can deepen our relationship with Marriott Rewards members by delivering greater recognition, and easy access to the loyalty programs’ features through our new mobile experience”, said Thom Kozik, vice president of Loyalty, Marriott International. The Marriott Mobile app for IOS is available in the Apple App Store in English, Chinese, Spanish, French and German. Following this year, Android users will be able download the app in Google Play. What’s Inside the App: When members check in using the app, for the first time they will now be able to request room upgrades and receive notification it has been fulfilled before they arrive. Also for the first time, they will be able to request a late check-out in the app rather than at front desk, which is guaranteed for Gold and Platinum Elite Members. Guests can use the app to chat directly with hotel staff before, during and after their stays for special requests that require personal attention, or choose from a drop-down menu of the most frequently requested services or amenities such as more towels or extra pillows. Having been the first to offer Mobile Requests globally beginning in 2015, the service is currently available at more than 4,000 hotels worldwide. For travelers in planning mode, they will now be able to precisely narrow down their destination searches by address or point-of-interest to find the closest, most convenient hotel, and to save their favorite hotels for quicker future bookings. Easier Navigation: Members will engage with the app’s new interface that features an innovative “one-button” ergonomic design. Inspired by observing travelers as they dashed through airports, balancing their phone in one hand and luggage in the other, the new design offers simple thumb-tap access to everything the app has to offer. In a departure from other hospitality apps, the typical “never-changing” home screen has been replaced with four dynamic, swipe-able screens triggered by what travelers may need at a specific point in their journey. 60 March 2017
March 2017 61
IDENTITYout&about Sokhna project, prior to the date to finish the project for 24 months, where the company planned to complete the first stage 12-2018, which was implemented on an area of more than 120 thousand square meters with investments amounting to 750 million pounds.
Love More This Valentine’s Day with Entertainment at City Wadi Degla Developments Centre Maadi and City Centre launches Promenade New Alexandria Cairo, the ultimate residential destination in the rising area City Centre Maadi and City Centre Alexandria brought a little more The single phase project costs 1.5 love into the world this Valentine’s billion EGP Day by offering visitors a variety of interactive activities, entertainment and wonderful gifts from February 1 ¬to February 14. Group exhibition“ARCADE”
First Egyptian General Manager Tatweer Misr Promotes Revival for The Cairo Marriott Hotel of the Culture and Soul of Egypt’s Forgotten Communities Omar Tantawy has been appointed with a Touch of Color as the new General Manager of The Cairo Marriott Hotel. In his new Tatweer Misr Sponsors NGO Misr role, he will be the first Egyptian El Saada to bring color to the only National to hold this position at remaining old Nuban Island Heissa the flagship property of Marriott to promote tourism and generating International in Egypt. happiness
In this group exhibition, Arcade gallery introduces its first season’s collaborating artists through a selection of their artwork, shown for the duration from Thursday 9 March till Wednesday 12 April. Arcade gallery opened its doors to promote different contemporary art disciplines, and value adding cultural projects, offering its small but cozy place for temporary exhibitions, allowing the encounter of different energies and visions of different artists, through presenting them to the public with the purpose of participating in the development of the society
Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski was delighted and honored to host top media key figures for a special dining experience at Yana the Thai restaurant. Chef Prapai Pattamang created some of his delectable signature dishes such as tomyum soup, crab yellow curcumin sauce, and more mouthwatering dishes. Guest were greeted by the marketing Friday Brunch at Lucca team and Mariam Habib the new appointed Director of Marketing and Communications where special acknowledge was given to every attendee Inspired by the flavours of Tuscany, and magazine owner for their continuous support which contribute to Royal Lucca treats you to an inviting array Maxim Palace Kempinski success and accomplishments today. of Italian favourites and classics at Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski. Our passionate Italian Chef Antonio Carrano cooks for you an excellent menu with the best ingredients of the Mediterranean. Join our Friday Brunch where you can enjoy classic Italian tunes along with the view of our glistening palace courtyard. Careem Caters to Growing Needs of Customers to Increase Supply
HTC’s New Series: It’s All About the Brilliant U
Careem, the region’s leading appbased car booking service, today announced the revamping of its product offerings to further reinforce its customer-centric brand positioning as the safest, most affordable, highest quality mobility solution.
HTC, a pioneer in innovative smart technologies, unveiled its newest smartphone series, HTC U, with two new models, the HTC U Ultra 5.7-in and the HTC U Play 5.2-in smartphones, at an event at the Armani Hotel in Dubai, UAE, presided by Chialin Chang, President of Smartphone and Connected Devices Business, HTC, and regional HTC leadership.
HTC unveils all-new smartphone Revamp of Products in Motion to series with HTC U Ultra and HTC U Play GO and GO+
“Metawee Group” finished 70% Estate Market of First of the first phase of the project Organization “Alburouj is a True Catalyst for “Blue Blue” Sokhna before the Simulation Event in Middle Great Communities” East, Under Patronage of ‘Ain deadline with 24 months Shams University, Seven Teams The Board of Capital Group Metawee Group has announced from Egyptian Universities Properties “CGP” flies from that the company has finished 70% Participate in Shell EcoAbu Dhabi to Inaugurate the of the first phase of the “Blue Blue” Marathon in Singapore Construction of Alburouj 62 March 2017
Stay a step ahead of the pace of modern life with the Huawei Mate 9 The flagship device is unbeatably fast and fit to keep up with today’s dynamic world March 2017 63
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League in youth centers throughout the country
IKEA Unites a Couple under One Roof on Valentine’s Day Dimitrios Zarikos - Regional Vice President and General On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, Manager IKEA partnered with Meshwar at Four Seasons Hotel Cairo Organization for Community Nile Plaza Development to help unite a couple under one roof. The couple, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile who has been engaged for two Plaza is delighted to welcome years and struggling to furnish their Dimitrios Zarikos as the new small apartment, was surprised to Regional Vice President and General see their apartment fully furnished Manager. by IKEA as a Valentine’s present.
Caroline Selim the Executive Assistant Manager For Sonesta Hotel Tower & Casino – Cairo
The opening sees Majid Al Futtaim ushering in a new era of retail and entertainment in Egypt With $722 million in investments, the company’s first super-regional mall in Egypt introduces never-seen-before concepts to the local market
Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia opens the doors of In the presence of Minister of its eagerly-anticipated Mall of Egypt Investment & International on Thursday, 2 March at 10:00am. Cooperation, Minister of With an investment of $722 million, Education, National Council the mall is expected to attract a For Women & The Academy great fanfare from crowds eager to of Scientific Research and be the first to experience Egypt’s Technology latest shopping and entertainment hub. L’Oreal Egypt announces the opening of 2017 edition of “L’OrealUNESCO For Women in Science” Levant & Egypt program Almost 90 winners from the Arab world, and 14 talented young women from Egypt since the launch of the program in 1998 The Largest Fishing Competition at Sheraton & Westin Soma Bay Resorts Hurghada
Sonesta Hotels International has announced the promotion of Mrs. Caroline Selim to the position of Executive Assistant Manager and in charge of Sales and Marketing for Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino – Cairo. Caroline has more than 25 years of experience in the hotels and tourism industry inside and outside Egypt and since joining the hotel in 2000 her commitment, achievements, skills and aptitude have been have been exemplary, and had led her to such post. Caroline’s last position was Director of Sales and Marketing for Sonesta With the Participation of Hotel Cairo 5,500 teams Representing All Sonesta Hotel,Tower & Casino Cairo Educational Directorates team wishes her the best of luck Launch of the 2017 Pepsi School 64 March 2017
Majid Al Futtaim Opens the doors of Mall of Egypt
Kamala’s Dim Sum dinner at Conrad Cairo Conrad Cairo held exclusive elegant dining evening at Kamala Restaurant for one of a kind Chinese culinary experience made by the Chinese Dim Sum Chef Liang De Jiang who came especially from Conrad Bangkok for a Dim Sum Promotion at Kamala Restaurant.
These days, the whole world looked at the Red Sea Resort Soma bay in Egypt, as a popular lifestyle hotspot for sports and leisure events specially for those who are willing to enjoy the tranquility, comfort and relaxation as well to have the change to experience some sports’ competitions. March 2017 65
IDENTITYsigns
TAURUS
Try to rest and relax more this month; your career has been taking its toll on you. While things might not be going as well as you had hoped, the hardship shall pass.
GEMINI
Romance will be on your mind. Love will move for you as fast as Cupid’s arrow, so rejoice love is near!
CANCER
This month, you’re in luck when it comes to your career. And for those of you who are university-bound, you will hear good news on that front!
LEO
PISCES
February 19 – March 20 Strengths Friendly, generous, kind-hearted, creative. Weaknesses Fearful, oversensitive, indecisive. Most Compatible with Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio and Capricorn Love: As the month begins, you will find yourself in a matchmaker mode.You will start playing Cupid and matching your friends with each other, and you will actually get some sparks flying! As for your own love life, well, your friends will definitely return the favor and you might find yourself embarking on a new relationship. You will be surprised from all the kinds of new romance that will be buzzing around. Career: You will do a lot of networking this month that will definitely help both you and your friends achieve your career goals. Beware though, don’t let your work schedule trump your working out schedule, because you will be needing that toned figure that you worked so hard for.
ARIES
This month is the perfect time for serious love and commitment. Forget about your career for a while, your life is passing you by.
VIRGO
If you don’t stop delaying things, it will sooner or later eclipse in your career. Beware; what you worked so hard for can be lost any minute.
LIBRA
This will be more of a family oriented month for you; you will start focusing more on your love life and taking care of your lifetime partner.
SCORPIO
You want the emotional happiness and the respect at home that you believe you could only get through career success.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll find yourself at a position where you have to defend your personal position in the company, as well as the company’s competitive position. But, things will get better.
CAPRICORN
Your career and outer ambitions will become of less importance. The need for emotional harmony will be stronger.
AQUARIUS
You will face some hard times with your partner, but the good news is, you will come out stronger.
PISCES
Other people hold the key to your good these days, This is going to be a fortunate month for you. You will and you can’t do it alone. So, it’s about time you focused have every life aspect in line, whether it’s your love life or your career. more on your love life. 66 March 2017
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X-Large Design by Duravit
Offering plenty of extra storage space and extra elegance, the X-Large furniture series is popular with instinctive good taste. For more info please visit our showrooms in Sheraton +2 02 26968700, Designopolis +2 02 38572041 or +2 0238572042, Sharm El Sheikh +2 06 93664162, Hurghada +2 01 001789418 or visit www.duravit.com.eg
68 March 2017
W E CA N H E L P YO U I N D E S I G N I N G YO U R B AT H R O O M .
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