OCTOBER 2011
The Winning Spirit Majlis A’Shura Aspirants CUISINE Go Veg
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH A Mammogram Experience Experts Speak Celeb Survivors Think Pink
OCTOBER 2011 VOL 9 NO. 102
from the desk
EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Salman Ibrahim Al Balushi GROUP EDITOR Mayank Singh CORRESPONDENT Myssaa Said Al Hinai DESIGN SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Sandesh S. Rangnekar SENIOR DESIGNER Aliya Al Waheibi SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Rajesh Burman PHOTOGRAPHER Motasim Abdulla Al Balushi PRODUCTION MANAGER Govindraj Ramesh
Of causes and dreams
ADVERTISING & MARKETING ADVERTISING MANAGER Pooja Verma ASSISTANT ADVERTISING MANAGER Fareeda Sulaiman Al Balushi CORPORATE CHIEF EXECUTIVE Sandeep Sehgal EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Alpana Roy VICE PRESIDENT Ravi Raman SENIOR BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVE Radha Kumar BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVE Zuwaina Al Rashdi DISTRIBUTION United Media Services LLC
Breast cancer awareness is a subject very dear to our hearts at Al Mar’a. Year after year, we attempt to do something different for the cause of cancer awareness. While stories of breast cancer survivors do bring hope and faith to the fore, we also focus on the hard-hitting facts as well. One of our team member’s close friends recently noticed something unnatural on one of her breasts. It took a lot of convincing, education and counselling for her to agree to have a mammogram. She was scared of both the process and the outcome. She finally did have one and thankfully, her reports turned out to be normal. It’s very important for every woman to have a screening mammogram after the age of 40, especially if she has a strong family history or the risk factors associated with breast cancer. To put this point across, one of us decided to have a mammogram to explain what the process entailed. It was an intense experience but nevertheless, it had to be done, for other women had to know what screening for breast cancer is all about. Read about this special experience and a lot more in our special Breast Cancer Awareness pages. In this issue, we also have women who are contesting the Majlis A’Shura talking about their dreams and aspirations. We wish them the very best and hope that there will be a number of women elected to the Shura Council this term.
Published by United Press & Publishing LLC A Renaissance Services Company
P.O. Box 3305, Ruwi, Postal Code 112, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Tel: 00 968 24700896 Fax: 00 968 24707939 e-mail: almara@umsoman.com website: www.umsoman.com
Our Fashion pages are a riot of colour with a report on the hot trends this season. And as a special treat for World Vegetarian Day which falls on October 1, our Cuisine pages are filled with vegetarian delights. Enjoy the issue… Until next month, stay cool, people!
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publishers. Copyright © 2011 United Press & Publishing LLC Printed in the Sultanate of Oman at Oman Printers & Stationers
e-magazine – logon to www.oeronline.com or email us at .almara@umsoman.com to get your personal e-magazine
CONTENTS
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
14 Profiles of celeb survivors 18 A personal account of a mammogram at Muscat Private Hospital 22 All you need to know about breast cancer by Dr. Smita Lulla 24 Special events by NACA for the month 26 Pink must-haves!
22
26
AM RECOMMENDS
PEOPLE
55 Give your hair a makeover with Bio Anti Frizz Elements from Glamour Beauty Salon
PROFILE
EVENTS
38 H.H. Sayyidah Wisam Al Said, Corporate Affairs Manager at Oman Oil Marketing Company on communication and more… 42 Biljana Mohan on her diverse interests in life
FEATURES
9 The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards is all set to honour successful women from all walks of life 13 The Omani Women’s Fashion Trends 2011 will showcase designs by seven upcoming fashion designers
FOCUS
34 Amal Van Hees on women’s representation in the Majlis A’Shura 36 Majlis A’Shura aspirants talk about their hopes and aspirations…
34
38
TRAVEL
30 Why Denmark should be one of your must-see destinations…
WELL-BEING
40 Keep the mind stress-free and feel the pressure vanish, says Dr. Prema Seshadri.
GO TECH
46 Some interesting iPad apps
GOOD THINGS
48 Must-haves for you and for him…
38
SOLUTIONS AT HOME
58
63 Practical ideas for your home and you...
FASHION & BEAUTY
50 The hottest trends this Autumn-Winter 66 Presenting the CH Carolina Herrera AutumnWinter 2011 collection…
66
Cover Design: Sandesh S. Rangnekar
BEAUTY ZONE
56 The beauty check-list.
IN EVERY ISSUE
Your Say •Life, etc •Stargazing•News
YOUR SAY
Address your letters to: The Editor, Al Mar’a, United Media Services P.O. Box: 3305, PC 112 Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman or fax us at 24707939 or e-mail us at almaraoman@gmail.com
INCREDIBLE STORIES It was a treat reading the September issue of Al Mar’a. Your cover story on women achievers exemplified the sayings, “Where there is a will, there is a way,” and the ‘sky is indeed the limit’ if you put your hearts and minds to something. All the stories were incredible and so beautifully told that it has prompted me to think out of ‘my daily existence’ and strive to achieve something worthwhile in life. Climbing mountains, deep sea diving, riding a bike and practising taekwondo are indeed tough jobs, but these women have proved that you can go off the beaten track and do what your heart tells you to do. It’s definitely tough but not impossible. It may take time… but the end is not far in sight… if the will and determination is there. Hats off to Muna, Nashwa, Stefanie and Neveen… who have shown that there are no limits, except the ones we
place on ourselves. RASHA AL RIYAMI - AL KHUWAIR FITNESS FAN I am a huge fitness buff and absolutely loved the fitness routines of the stars featured in your magazine. I have been doing a part of the P90 workout for quite some time now and find it absolutely fantastic. I was so out of shape six months ago but I could feel the difference after starting out on this workout in just three weeks. My favourite module is the Cario X and Kenpo X and Tony Horton is a good motivator. I recommend it to all the women who want to feel fabulous about themselves and are willing to work hard to get the results they want. SANGEETA RODRIQUES - SEEB
skin. Wow! The simple face pack described at the end of every fruit was interesting enough to try out immediately. I have so far, tried on three fruit packs and I must say that the effect has been refreshing and rejuvenating. Looking forward to more such informative articles. SABAH KHAN - AL GHUBRA ABAYA CHIC I simply loved the fashion spread featuring Lubna Al Zakwani’s exclusive designs. It was a lovely and modern take on the abaya, very trendy and chic! The interplay of colours and embroidery make her creations stand out. No wonder they are one-of-a-kind! I want own a Lubna creation soon! They are simply exquisite! RAMLA AL KINDI - QURUM
GETTING FRUITY I love fruits and but I never knew they would do so much good to my
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OCTOBER 2011
NEWS
Festive flair Renowned fashion designer Mrunal Khimji is showcasing her latest collection; The Diwali Collection 2011 which is now available at Mrunal’s Boutique. To celebrate the festival of lights, a wide variety of ethnic and modern clothing is on display: simple yet elegant; basic and classy embroidery as per your liking; bright and colourful to bring more to life. “The collection this year is less bling and more colours. It features simple drapes and designs, bringing out the best in a woman,” says Mrunal. Drop by at the boutique, opposite E&Y building, Qurum or call 24568927 to find out more.
A green cuppa
New flavours Did you visit the RBG Grill at Park Inn Muscat recently? The restaurant has launched an exciting new menu, introducing more tempting delicacies for diners to choose from. Succulent steaks and gourmet burgers cooked to perfection are served with complementing side dishes to make for a truly satisfying dining experience. The menu also features appetising starters, alternative main courses and mouth watering desserts. In an innovative move, the restaurant has also gone online, allowing diners the option of reserving their table in advance. 8
OCTOBER 2011
Second Cup, Canada’s largest specialty coffee franchiser, now serves Rainforest Alliance certified coffee in Oman. Reinforcing the brand’s stand on green products for a sustainable future, all espressobased coffee served at Second Cup are 100 per cent certified by the reputed international non-profit organisation that is transforming land-use practices, business practices and consumer behaviour. For more than 18 years, the Rainforest Alliance Certification has been supporting coffee farmers around the world improve their livelihood while protecting the environment and wildlife by focusing on sustainable farming and agriculture best practices.
Entertainment Unlimited Offering the best in class music entertainment, Sony Ericsson’s latest offering - the Sony Ericsson Mix Walkman phone - highlights the company’s customersensitive design orientation. The phone integrates full touch functionality with a corner user interface similar to that available in the Xperia mini range. Packed with features, the gadget includes a camera enabled with video recording and WiFi connectivity for chatting and browsing. Packs quite a punch, doesn’t it?
EVENT
Achievers All
The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards 2011 will acknowledge, honour, celebrate and applaud achievers from different fields…
L
ook around you and you can see women achievers everywhere. Omani women have made inroads in every field you can think of. Whether it’s in traditional sectors or those off the beaten track, they have risen to the top through sheer grit, determination and hard work. They are role models for generations to come because they are not only super achievers but pioneers as well. The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards 2011 is a humble salute to the women who have not only excelled personally and individually, but also made immense contributions and enriched the society we live in. “With the nominations for the Awards underway, we’ve been overwhelmed with the response received across the different categories. Women are not only nominating themselves but also other women who they feel deserve to be appreciated and applauded for their hard work. It goes without saying, that the concept of the Al Mar’a Excellence Awards 2011 has struck the right chord among women in the Sultanate,” says Alpana Roy, Executive
Mercedes-Benz Oman signs a Strategic Partnership with Al Mar’a Excellence Awards
Vice-President, United Press & Publishing. The Awards have been designed to range across 12 categories, namely: Corporate Leadership, Fashion Design, Performing Arts, Fine Arts, Educational Services, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Health Services, Science and Industry, Technology, Sports, Petroleum Services and Social Responsibility. Apart from these, two women will also be the recipient of the prestigious Woman of the Year and Most Promising Woman of the Year Awards. The Awards will judge achievers according to different parameters like innovation and creativity, the impact their contributions have had in society, their leadership abilities and the goals achieved. The final ranking process with be appraised by our official assessment partner, Ernst & Young. If you wish to nominate yourself or any other women who you think deserve to be honoured for making a mark in their respective fields
and thereby impacting society, all you have to do is log onto www.almaraonline.com or fill up the nomination forms also available at selected retail outlets, which will then have to be submitted with your (or your nominee’s) supporting documentation at United Media Services, Ruwi. Winners of the Al Mar’a Excellence Awards 2011 will be announced at a glittering event to be held at The Amphitheatre, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, on October 25, 2011. Join us in celebrating and applauding these inspiring leaders… The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards 2011 is an Al Mar’a Initiative. Strategic Partners: Mercedes-Benz (Zawawi Trading Company, the authorised general distributor for MercedesBenz in Oman) and BankDhofar. Assessment Partner: Ernst & Young. Media Partners: Times of Oman & Al Shabiba. Radio Partners: Al Wisal FM and Merge 104.8 FM. Printing Partner: Ruwi Modern Printers.
BankDhofar signs a Strategic Partnership with Al Mar’a Excellence Awards
OCTOBER 2011
9
NEWS
Congrats! Great work needs to be rewarded, don’t you agree? BankDhofar recently rewarded its staff under its staff recognition scheme. This scheme enables employees to take an active part in the enhancement and development of the BankDhofar brand, its products and services. BankDhofar employees honoured at the ceremony were Zakiya Rashid Al Amri, Izki branch, Naeima Rabeea Al Busaidi, Shinas branch, Yusriya Omar Al Balushi, corporate communications and marketing department, Hamoud Khalfa Al Qasmi, MBD branch and Yunis Issa Al Habsi, Samad Al Shan branch. Way to go!
Sailing high
Brand value
Sophistication, functionality and versatility at its best, the all unique Citizen Yacht Timer is a magnificently powerful watch that combines the innovation of function and refinement of design. Powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive movement, the watch features Race timer-99 min countdown, split time, automatic chrono start, 1/100th of a second chronograph up to 24 hrs and water resistant to 200 metres, making it the ideal watch for yachting. The watch is also equipped with convenient features like 30 cities world time, UTC display, dual time, dual alarm, 12/24 hr time and Daylight Saving Time. The rose gold colour case and the black PU strap makes this watch a real head turner.
If you are looking at quality consumer electronics and home appliances, Haier is a brand that offers cutting edge technology that ensures excellent product quality and superior performance backed by elegant looks. The products in the range include LCD, LED TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, dish washers, microwave ovens and window and split air conditioners. Haier products are distributed by Mustafa Sultan Electronics L.L.C and are available at retail outlets besides dealers and hypermarkets.
Safety First We know that safety is top priority when it comes to your home. That’s why you should take advantage of National Bank of Oman’s (NBO) Himayati Home Insurance plan, the most comprehensive and simple home insurance plan for NBO customers in the Sultanate. It has been arranged by NBO in association with AXA Insurance (Gulf) B.S.C. It provides families with an easy and complete insurance solution for household contents and personal belongings with premiums starting from as low as Rials 3 per month! NBO customers can take optional cover benefits for ‘important documents’, insurance of ‘domestic helpers’ and ‘building’ cover, all at an unbelievable low cost. A free basic travel Insurance is provided for those opting for the annual payment plan. So what are you waiting for? Get one today! 10 OCTOBER 2011
Right Shots Happy Spirit This year, Chopard is offering a lighter, yet ever exquisite version of its iconic Happy Diamonds. Visions of slender hearts or precious circles yellow, rose or white gold circles polished or set with precious diamonds. This menagerie of luxury, all motioning together, creates the spectacle that is the famous floating diamonds. These radiantly joyful yet discreet pieces will glitter in splendour on the neck, wrist, ears or fingers of the women who are lucky enough to love them. Want to know more? Contact Khimji’s Watches.
Sony has launched two new digital point-andshoot cameras, the Cyber-shot TX55 and the WX30 – both packed with superior features, and designed to offer convenience to capture the moment with DSLR-style still photos, Full HD videos and amazing 3D images. While the Cyber-shot TX55 holds the distinction of being the world’s thinnest camera with full HD video recording capabilities, the equally distinguished Cyber-shot WX30 offers functionalities such as Full HD video, Picture Effect and a 3.0-inch touchscreen, which enhance user-experience.
Business Tool
The Cost Factor
Nawras, has launched another ‘first’ with the unveiling of its eagerly-awaited Business Mousbak prepaid service. Through its Business Group feature, the new Business Mousbak service gives the ability to make free calls between all employees of a company, whether they are using mobile postpaid or prepaid lines. Helping to control costs, a secure online tool is provided to make it easy for corporate customers to recharge and distribute credit to employees on an ad hoc basis or automatically on a regular basis. What an idea!
India’s fastest growing airline comes to Muscat. IndiGo has announced service on the Muscat – Mumbai sector effective from the tenth of this month. Muscat will be the fourth international destination on IndiGo’s growing network. IndiGo will operate four flights a week between Muscat and Mumbai with a promotional return fare of Rials 88 on the route. IndiGo has recently launched its international services with daily and direct flights from Delhi to Dubai, Bangkok and Singapore. The initial response of the flights has been good so far and the carrier hopes that it will be able to replicate its domestic success in international market as well.
Strong partnership Oman Air has announced a new joint venture with Bahwan Travel Agencies, which will promote inbound tourism to Oman and outbound holidays to destinations served by the national carrier’s network. To be known as Oman Air Holidays LLC (in partnership with Bahwan Travels), the Sultanate of Oman’s first ever public/ private partnership will result in the country’s largest travel and tourism business. The deal will see the airline’s Oman Air Holidays division integrate with Bahwan Tours for inbound holidays and with Bahwan Holidays for outbound holidays, sharing markets, personnel and systems to offer value for money products to clients in Oman and around the globe.
Picture Happy Are you a fastidious shutterbug? Then, you’ll like Samsung’s new ‘multiview’ camera that enables today’s increasingly ambitious camera user to frame the perfect shot from any angle. The ultra slim and stylish device boasts enhanced picture quality, touch screen technology, as well as many innovative and user-friendly features to ensure that all users can relax and enjoy their shooting experience, confident of capturing even the most challenging shot, be they behind or in front of the lens. Happy clicking!
Sporty Fun This November sees the fifth generation of the world’s most successful high-performance saloon arrive in the Middle East region. The new BMW M5 is an exceptionally dynamic high-performance sports car with four doors and five seats, a further development of the concept originally initiated in 1984 with the first generation BMW M5. It features the world premiere of a newly developed BMW M high-performance, high-revving, 4.4-litre V8 engine with an M Twin Power Turbo package. What a car!
Social power This is CSR at its best! Omran’s recently launched corporate social responsibility programme, ‘Intajee’ has become a soaring success, with more than 1,000 local products made by families from Al Batinah sold out within the first week of their debut. In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Agriculture Association for Al Batinah Farmers, ‘Intajee’ is centered on empowering families with the necessary skills and training to sustain themselves through their own microbusinesses. Looking forward to more of these kind! OCTOBER 2011 11
NEWS
Tranquil Zone It’s the best weekend getaway ever! Located in the heart of the picturesque Marina Town, Jebel Sifah, the Sifawy Boutique Hotel marks Muriya’s foray into the hospitality industry. It is all set to welcome guests at its 55 elegantly appointed guestrooms – 25 standard rooms, 30 fully furnished suites and three suites equipped for physically challenged guests. All rooms have private balconies with comfortable seating, overlooking the beautiful marina or the swimming pool. Marina Suite guests may also avail the services of a private butler. If you are looking for a getaway that offers you the best of different worlds, Jebel Sifah beckons with its natural beauty and world class facilities. Enjoy!
Heady Whiff Fan di Fendi, the new fragrance by House of Fendi is for the woman who’s fun-loving, free, crazy about life, luxury and everything lovely. It’s an object of desire, a wildly exciting fragrance, a scent that exudes a warm floral accord. An Italian garden in the sun is encapsulated in the head notes: fun-loving pear and black currant are illuminated by the essence of tangerine. Closer to the heart, it’s enriched with floral notes while the base note gets bewitching with leather meeting patchouli. It’s time to party! Available at Muscat Pharmacy (Perfumes & Cosmetics).
Perfect Finish The new foundation from Sensai ‘Fluid Finish Lasting Velvet’ has been created to get a beautifully moisturised skin with a semi-matte finish, instantly. The unique technology encapsulates highly evaporative oil, moisturising matte powder and drops of pure Fuji-Sensui water — natural spring water from Mount Fuji — to create a fluid foundation that spreads quickly and easily for a lasting hold on the skin. The finish is semi-matte, yet full of moisture, leaving your skin looking naturally fresh and feeling comfortably soft.
12 OCTOBER 2011
The Power unleashed In car news, the Jaguar XF has been announced as Auto Express Driver Power ‘Car of the Decade’. Over a period of 10 years readers of Auto Express have been invited to participate in the Driver Power survey and evaluate the car they own. The detailed survey encompassed many aspects of vehicle ownership - from reliability to dealer performance, to design, handling and ease of use. Congrats!
EVENT
Style Makers Omani Women’s Fashion Trends 2011 is a unique fashion event that will showcase the creations of seven young Omani fashion designers…
T
he fashion industry in Oman has undergone a seachange with the emergence of talented and focused fashion designers. They offer a fine blend of the traditional and the modern and are mostly uncompromising when it comes to reflecting Oman’s rich history and tradition. Omani Women’s Fashion Trends 2011 (OWFT) is a unique fashion event organised by leading event management company, Light and Shadow Enterprises and aims at showcasing the progress and achievements of Omani women in the field of fashion. The first edition of the event was held last year where four leading Omani designers showcased their collections. OWFT 2011 will be held on the 13th October 2011 at the Majan Ballroom, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-
Carlton Hotel. From this year, Her Highness Sayyida Amal Bint Turki Al Said is the guiding light, advisor and brand ambassador for the event. Under her stewardship, OWFT will reach out to a wider audience and cater to a large section of the Omani women.
Zadjali, Maitha Al Harthy, Shibly Maksood Ali Nusrat and Wafa Basalwad.
The main objectives of OWFT are to provide the best possible platform to nurture young Omani talent in the field of fashion; to highlight the successes of Omani women in the field; create awareness on Omani fashion and raise funds for a charitable organisation that supports women.
“Light and Shadow Enterprises has organised successful fashion shows in Oman featuring top international fashion designers like Neeta Lulla, Hemant Trevedi, JJ Valaya and others. We would now like to give the fashion designers of Oman a platform to showcase their creations and at the same time celebrate the women of Oman. The future of OWFT is to create a fashion council and take Omani fashion to the next level,” says Shruti Chowdhary, director, Light and Shadow Enterprises.
The theme of OWFT 2011 is ‘The Rainbow’ where seven designers will come together to showcase each colour of the rainbow where each designer will be given a colour to design their garments around. As the grand finale, the best garment from each designer depicting the colours of the rainbow will be selected and these garments will then be auctioned. The charity OWFT will support this year is The National Association for Cancer Awareness (NACA). OWFT 2011 will showcase a total of seven young Omani women designers. The participating designers are Afaf Ismaili, Hala Al Balushi, Hanna Al Raisi, Hazar Al
OWFT 2011 will also give students of fashion design at the Scientific College of Design an opportunity to be present backstage and assist the designers and models.
What a wonderful way to showcase and bring rich and vibrant Omani fashion to the spotlight! An inspiring initiative, indeed! •The sponsors of OWFT 2011 are BankMuscat, BMW, Khimji’s Watches and Chopard, Capital Store, Kaya Skin Clinic, and Manal Beauty Center while the Media Sponsor is Times of Oman. • Al Mar’a is the Magazine Partner for the event.
OCTOBER 2011 13
FEATURE – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
Of Hope & Inspiration MANY WELL-KNOWN CELEBRITIES HAVE HAD PERSONAL STRUGGLES WITH BREAST CANCER, AND NOW SPEAK OUT TO HELP OTHERS SUFFERING FROM THE DISEASE. BELOW ARE PROFILES OF FIVE SUCH STARS, WHO BATTLED THE BIG C AND WON…
B
reast cancer can strike anyone… And however much we reiterate the need for timely diagnosis, it’s just not enough. So we go one step further and feature a few celebrities who have battled breast cancer and emerged survivors. These are stories of ‘then and now’ – the beginning of a frightful diagnosis, treatment, acceptance and finally, identifying with the cause of awareness. They have also proved that breast cancer survivors can go back to leading normal lives. Here’s why these celebrities are our symbols of hope.
CYNTHIA NIXON
2006: A cancerous tumour was discovered in her right breast during a routine mammogram. Initially, she didn’t want the public to know, but later, decided to tell her story when she realised it might serve as an inspiration for other women at risk. She underwent a lumpectomy and six weeks of radiation. 2011: She now serves as ambassador for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. She is also making her way back to Broadway, all set to star as Professor Vivian Bearing in the first Broadway production of Wit. Words of inspiration: “I felt scared. And I thought, ‘Oh, I don’t want this to be happening.’ I was very cognizant of if it’s going to happen, this is the best way for it to happen, that it’s found so early and we can just get right on it.”
14 OCTOBER 2011
JACYLN SMITH
CHRISTINA APPLEGATE
2008: She was 36 years old when actor Christina Applegate revealed her diagnosis for breast cancer. She had a double mastectomy performed to combat the disease. The early detection made all the difference for a now healthy Christina who has become an advocate for early screening – both mammograms and MRIs. She even started Right Action for Women, which helps pay for tests for high risk young women who can’t afford them. 2011: Three years after she survived breast cancer, Christina gave birth to a daughter Grace LeNoble in January this year. She has credited her baby’s dad, Martyn LeNoble, a founding member of the 90s alternative rock band with helping keep her spirits high during her cancer battle. Words of inspiration: “Yeah, I’m going to face challenges, but you can’t get any darker than where I have been. So, just knowing that in my soul gave me the strength to just say, “I’ve got to – I’ve got to go out there and be positive.”
2002: Charlie’s Angels star, Jaclyn Smith discovered a lump during a routine checkup in 2002 and underwent a lumpectomy and radiation therapy the following month. Since then, she has worked to increase cancer awareness and raise money for research and support. Jacyln participated in the Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C. and has participated in other fundraising events to help benefit the organisation. 2011: The actor turned fashion mogul celebrated her silver anniversary association with Kmart last year. Jacyln has been designing clothes for the US discount chain for 25 years. She has also branched out into wig design in collaboration with celebrity hair stylist and long-time friend Jose Eber. The idea stemmed from her own battle with breast cancer and is kept in line with her desire to offer budget-friendly options. Words of inspiration: “Don’t go it alone. I believe in the power of girlfriends. I believe that family and friends, and especially other women, can make a profound difference during cancer treatment. Cancer can change your life in the sense that you really realise the value of things.”
FEATURE – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
KYLIE MINOGUE
2005: Australian pop star was initially misdiagnosed but she persisted in getting an accurate diagnosis for the lump found in her breast. It was found that she had an aggressive type of breast cancer and underwent surgery and chemotherapy. She was later given the all clear following chemotherapy and radiotherapy and was able to resume her Showgirl Tour in 2006. She has fronted breast cancer awareness campaigns and has been voted the most inspirational breast cancer star for her willingness to speak openly and honestly about dealing with the disease. 2011: Now six years cancer-free and happily in love with her Spanish beau Andres Velencoso, Minogue has revealed she has never been more settled. Her career is also going great guns – a testimony to what courage and confidence can do – to brave the most difficult of life’s battles.
Words of inspiration: “One thing I realised that you’re still the same person at the end. You’re stripped down to near zero but you come out the other end feeling more like yourself than ever.”
SHERYL CROW
2006: Suspicious calcifications in both her breasts during a routine mammogram saw Sheryl Crow being diagnosed with breast cancer. The rocker immediately postponed a tour, went into surgery and had seven weeks of radiation, supplemented with acupuncture and herbal teas. Her engagement with cyclist Lance Armstrong ended around the same she was diagnosed. She was able to skip chemotherapy because her cancer was caught so early. In March 2007, Sheryl, who has no close family history of breast cancer petitioned Congress to fund research into possible links between breast cancer and environmental factors. 2011: Sheryl is advocating her cancer-fighting Eskimo diet that makes healthy food fun. The 49-year-old songstress and food expert Chuck White have since written a book titled, If It Makes You Healthy, and Sheryl credits the healthy foods included in there for changing her way of life. The Eskimo Diet features a lot of salmon, tomatoes and brown rice. Recently, Sheryl joined the rebuilding effort in Missouri (devastated by the hurricane) by donating her Mercedes at an auction. Words of inspiration: “I encourage all women everywhere to advocate for themselves and for their future - see your doctor and be proactive about your health.”
16 OCTOBER 2011
WWW.SWAROVSKI.COM
© SWAROVSKI 2011
Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Ruwi Street: 24796161 Qurum: 24560419
EXPERIENCE – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
HAVING A MAMMOGRAM IS A VERY INTENSE AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. A MEMBER OF THE AL MAR’A TEAM RECOUNTS THE FEAR, DOUBTS, THE DIFFERENT STEPS IN THE PROCESS AND FINALLY THE FEELINGS OF RELIEF…
Abreast with health W
hen you’ve a strong family history of breast cancer, you already know that you are at high risk of contracting the disease. Couple this with other factors, and you realise that screening for breast cancer is a must when you reach the designated age of getting one done. And that’s why I decided to go in for a screening mammogram this year. I was told that it was painful and scary. And then there was the fear. What if they find something? What will happen to me? Will I suffer? And so, I had to find out for myself, and for the sake of many women out there who are frightened of having one, what the mammogram process entailed. Muscat Private Hospital kindly agreed to be part of our Breast Cancer Awareness story and allowed me to have a screening mammogram done at the Hospital, while the radiographer and the senior consultant radiologist were on hand to answer the number of questions I had.
18 OCTOBER 2011
THE GIFT OF GOOD HEALTH
I was asked to fill up forms that mostly wanted information about family history, the date of my last period and other personal details, after which the radiographer led me to the room that housed the digital mammography unit. Liji is a gentle soul and can put a patient at ease immediately. The first thing she asked me was, ‘Are you scared of pain?” I replied that my threshold for pain was quite high (having survived more than a day of labour during delivery) and that I was not scared. She just smiled at my response and went on to explain that that it was also necessary that a mammogram be done 10 days after your period when the breasts are not tender and there are lesser
What’s the greatest gift you can give your wife? When posed this question, our senior photographer Rajesh (who had accompanied us to Muscat Private Hospital) just said, “The gift of health!” and added, “I’m going to give my two elder sisters a complete health check-up voucher and make sure that they get a mammogram done. So what are you waiting for? This is a call to all the men out there… If you love your wives, mothers, sisters, aunts and grandmothers, make them aware. And advise them to get a mammogram done… For, their lives are truly precious. You could take advantage of Muscat Private Hospital’s special Breast Cancer Awareness Month discounts. Contact 24590382, 24583868 for more information.
EXPERIENCE – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS chances of being pregnant. What is a mammogram? It’s an X-Ray picture of the breast and so I was taken to the digital mammography unit, which Liji explained, would take two views each of my left and right breast. I was told to remove my upper clothes and jewellery and put on a hospital gown that opens in the front. I was then asked to remove the robe and the radiographer then placed the breast on a clear plate on the machine while bringing down the other plate to compress the breast. There is some pain during the compression but nothing that we women cannot handle. The slight discomfort is only for a few moments until the X-Ray is taken. The same is repeated with the other breast and the steps are then repeated to make a side view of each breast.
‘DON’T DELAY OR BE HESITANT’ Dr. Shaikha Al Belushi, consultant senior radiologist at Muscat Private Hospital speaks to Al Mar’a on why a woman above a certain age should have a mammogram done and the need for awareness… When and why should a woman go in for a mammogram? “A mammogram is usually advised after the age of 50, but it depends from centre to centre and country to country. In Oman, earlier, we would advise a compulsory mammogram after the age of 50. But of late, we’ve discovered a lot of cases below the age of 40 and so recommend it earlier specially for those with strong risk factors. Why we generally don’t prefer women to have it below 40 is because the breasts are dense and it’s not easy to detect abnormalities and also to avoid radiation to the young breasts. If we are not satisfied with a mammogram, we sometimes recommend either MRI imaging and as an addition, an ultrasound.” Can you tell us more about the process itself? “A woman has to go to her physician if she finds any changes in her breast. If a mammogram needs to be done, a referral request is made to a hospital (either private or government). This will be done after assessing the age and risk factors. We would like the mammogram done 10 days after the period. Screening can be divided into symptomatic and non-symptomatic. If a woman already has a mass in her breast, then the investigation will be different. The mammogram is done by taking four views, two views for each breast are taken to assess them
20 OCTOBER 2011
for any tiny changes. It’s the microcalcifications that we concentrate on, their shape, how they are clustered around each other, following which we classify them as benign or malignant. Other things we detect are masses or other small dense lesions that can again be classified as benign or malignant. If we are not sure what kind of masses are there, we ask for an ultrasound. If we have our suspicions, we recommend further investigations and a biopsy.” What would you tell women who are afraid of having a mammogram done? “They have to talk to other women who have had mammograms done. Be open with your physician. She will tell you that there’s nothing to be scared of. Do not be afraid of the pain. Just be aware that compression is a must to reduce density of the breast so that we see a clear picture and get a nice image quality to study the breasts. Also, compression immobilises the breast as movement would mean going through it all over again. It also reduces the level of radiation. So a little bit of discomfort has to be borne for better imaging.” Do you think that there should be more awareness regarding breast cancer? “Though we do have effective awareness programmes in place, awareness should be a continuing process. The onus lies on physicians and also the health centres. I would not like someone who is above the age of 50 to come to me with a mass because I know, it could be a malignancy. I would like to pick it up by screening at an earlier stage. So please don’t delay or be hesitant, whatever is there, you have to know what it is.”
The radiographer than transferred the images that are viewed by the radiologist on her screen. Since it was my first mammogram, the radiologist also advised an ultrasound be done. An ultrasound is recommended if the breasts are dense and it also helps to identify masses that could be cancerous in nature. Within 10 minutes, I got my reports and the radiologist concluded that everything was normal and advised a mammogram to be done every year, while adding that these mammogram and ultrasound reports were very important for comparison with the next one (to detect any visible changes in the intervening period). The whole process had taken less than 45 minutes. While the experience itself was a very intense and personal one for me, it also quelled my fears to a large extent. I’m glad I decided to go for it as my physician had once told me, “Remember, early diagnosis means early cure as breast cancer is curable!” I know I will have more mammograms in my life but this first experience has made me ready. I know what screening entails and I can say that I’ve become more rational in terms of believing and acceptance. I go back to the world I came from, the relief writ all over my face and deep in my heart, I let out a silent prayer. I’m glad I went through this. So all you women out there with strong risk factors (explained in detail in another article) or with a family history, consult your physician on what’s the right time and age to have a screening mammogram done. For, having a mammogram done would make that one big difference – between life and death.
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FAQ – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
WHEN IT COMES TO BREAST CANCER, AWARENESS IS KEY. DR. SMITA LULLA TELLS YOU ALL WHAT YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT THE DISEASE, ITS DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
BE AWARE
22 OCTOBER 2011
Dr. Smita Lulla — MBBS, M.D, D.G.O. (Gold Medallist) is Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Qurum Clinic, Muscat.
It’s all about hard facts! The kind that hit you so that you’d want to take care of your health right now! We have to realise how important it is to ‘know’ and more importantly to ‘act’.
Caucasian rather than Asian. • Conflicting data exists regarding the role of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy and the risk of breast cancer.
We’re talking of breast cancer, one of the most common forms of cancer in women. A woman dies from breast cancer every 75 seconds worldwide. Twenty five million cases of breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed over the next 25 years and most cancerrelated deaths will occur in the developing world.
HOW WILL I KNOW THAT I MAY HAVE BREAST CANCER? You may • Feel a lump or pain in the breast. • Have nipple discharge or tenderness. • Have swelling of one arm. • Have lost weight.
In Oman, the incidence is around 19.8 out of 100,000 women. In Western Asia, it is around 32.7 as compared to Western Europe where it is 89.7 out of 100,000 and in America, it’s 76.7 out of 100,000. However, early detection and treatment have reduced both morbidity and mortality rates in recent years. Want to know all about breast cancer but didn’t know where to go and whom to ask? Here is a list of FAQs related to breast cancer. AM I AT A HIGH RISK OF BREAST CANCER? Yes, if you • Are above 50 years. • Had late menopause (after 55 years). • Started your periods before 12 years. • Have had one child or no children or the first child after age 30. • Have a family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer. • Have had a benign breast lesion in the past. • Are overweight or obese (when post menopausal). • Lead a sedentary lifestyle. • Have BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes mutation. • Have had radiation to the chest in childhood.
HOW WILL THE DOCTOR DIAGNOSE THE CONDITION? • Clinical examination might reveal a lump in the breast, with or without pain or redness. • The nipple may be puckered and there may be a discharge. Lymph nodes maybe felt in the axilla (underarm). • Mammography (where X-ray pictures of the breast are taken). • Ultrasound (where sound energy is used). If a breast lump is found during an exam or something abnormal is seen on mammography, an ultrasound can help show whether it is a solid mass or a cyst.) • MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging is recommended in combination with mammography in women at very high risk of breast cancer). Any one or more investigations may be required. If a suspicious lesion is found, the doctor will advise a breast biopsy, which maybe a needle biopsy or an open biopsy. Other techniques like digital tomosynthesis, BSGI (breast specific gamma imaging) and PEM (positron emission mammography) are not routinely used, but maybe helpful in difficult cases and for earlier detection. In women with a strong family history, gene
WHAT TREATMENT ATMENT OPTIONS WOULD I HAVE? AVE? Depending on the size of the tumour, whether it has spread to the lymph nodes or to the surrounding tissues, different treatment options are available. • Surgery – which could be only lumpectomy (where only the lump is removed), partial or total mastectomy (where the affected part or whole breast is removed) or, in advanced cases, a radical mastectomy (where the breast, the underlying muscles and the lymph nodes are removed). • Radiation is administered after surgery in most cases • Chemotherapy is given to women at a significant risk of recurrence, or if their cancers are oestrogen receptor (ER) negative. • Hormone therapy or Endocrine therapy is offered only to the woman whose cancer is ER positive. Tamoxifen or Axemestrane is used. • Biological therapy or targeted therapy. This uses special anticancer drugs like Trastuzumab and Lapatinib that target certain changes in a cell that can lead to cancer. They are used for women with HER 2-positive breast cancer. mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2 are looked for by a blood test. HOW CAN I REDUCE MY RISK? This can be done by keeping your weight within normal limits, exercising and through regular gynecological examinations to enable early detection. Remember that all breast lumps are not cancerous. Early detection will lead to less complications and increase survival rate. Make sure you get into the habit of examining your breasts yourself (your doctor will show you how!) as that will help you recognise if something is unusual. It’s easy to perform a self-breast exam and it’s a skill that you can use throughout your life to help ensure good breast health. OCTOBER 2011 23
EVENT
Together, We Can… This month, the National Association for Cancer Awareness will organise a special ‘cancer awareness and education’ exhibition at Qurum City Centre and also the 8th Annual Cancer Awareness Walk. Be there… and support the cause it until too late. Even educated people having lumps are hiding it. The figures have gone up and that’s scary.”
W
hen it comes to breast cancer awareness, how much ever you talk about it is not enough. And that is what Yuthar Al Rawahy, the chairperson of the National Association for Cancer Awareness (NACA) is passionate about. The Association has always been in the forefront in raising awareness on all forms of cancer, especially breast cancer. The launch of the Mobile 24 OCTOBER 2011
Mammography Unit has ensured that awareness and the facility to have a screening mammogram be available to any woman over 40 in any corner of the Sultanate. “The Mobile Mammography Unit is doing very well, we’ve screened over 2800 women all over Oman, and three cases have been diagnosed,” says Yuthar. But Yuthar still feels there is not enough awareness regarding breast cancer. “There’s still a lot of work to do; people are leaving
To this end, NACA will hold a special ‘education and awareness’ exhibition on cancer, with a special focus on breast cancer throughout this month at Qurum City Centre aptly entitled, ‘The power is in your hands.’ There will be plenty of interactive sessions where people can listen to experts, learn about breast cancer, the different stages, treatment options, etc. The MMU will be stationed there and up to 25 mammograms will be done in a day. There will also be a doctor to conduct clinical breast exams. School children will play music
and there will different activities on stage each day. On October 25, the 8th National Cancer Awareness Walk will be held from 4.30 to 6.30pm. The venue will be the area outside the Ministry of Justice, Al Khuwair. This will also help raise awareness of cancer. The motto of the walk is ‘Be aware, show you care.’ “Awareness comes when different people join hands towards the cause. I would like to thank the Ministry of Health, the health centres, the corporate sponsors and a number of volunteers who are working hard to make this possible,” says Yuthar. So, what are you waiting for? Join in, and be aware!
GOOD THINGS
In the Pink CELEBRATE THE ESSENCE THROUGHOUT THE MONTH WITH SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE PINK PRODUCTS... ETERNITY SUMMER BY CALVIN KLEIN
DESIGUAL
FROM THE L’OCCITANE PEONY RANGE
SHALIMAR FROM GUERLAIN
26 OCTOBER 2011
PURE CUSTO BARCELONA FRAGRANCE
MARKS AND SPENCER ( Via www.prshots.com)
FROM THE SPRING 2011 POPPY COLLECTION
AURA BY SWAROVSKI
KENNETH COLE
TOUS L’EAU FRAGRANCE
I never started out to meet huge success; I started out to meet the purpose Many Journeys. Many Inspirations. One Spirit.
On 25 October 2011, get ready to be a part of Oman’s first forum to recognize the entrepreneurial zeal and achievements of Omani women. 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm The Amphitheatre, Shangri-La Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa, Sultanate of Oman
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TRAVEL
DETTE ER DENMARK! FROM HAUTE CUISINE TO HISTORICAL DELIGHTS, DENMARK HAS ALWAYS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF ART AND CULTURE. AL MAR’A EXPLORES ALL THIS AND MORE…
30 OCTOBER 2011
T
he relaxed and “slow living” approach to life embraced by the Danish people creates a beguiling atmosphere of peace and tranquility that can be felt throughout this beautiful land. The capital, Copenhagen, though one of the smallest and oldest cities in Europe, is also known to be one of the most easily travelled. Denmark prides itself on being green and demonstrates this with its numerous environmentally friendly advances, while at the same time celebrating its rich history and culture. The distinguished architecture and cultural highlights of this captivating country exude a seductive charm which perfectly complements its stylish and contemporary aspect. Denmark has a sense of magic and mystery about it that is evident in its love
of fairy tales, castles and legends. One of its most impressive sights is Kronenborg Castle in Helsingørtrip, famous for its associations with Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Copenhagen is home to two hidden gems, the Rosenborg Palace and Amalienborg Palace. Rosenborg, the majestic historical castle of the Danish royal family dates back to the 17th century where you will be able to view an array of national treasures, the most splendid being the Danish Crown Jewels. The current residence of Denmark’s Royal family is the striking Amalienborg Palace. This unique complex consists of four separate rococo designed palaces all situated around one octagonal courtyard. Located in the centre of this courtyard stands a resplendent statue of Frederik V, the founder of Amalienborg and its neighboring regions. The perfect time to view this royal residence is midday when you can witness the majestic changing of the guard ceremony. If you
OCTOBER 2011 31
TRAVEL Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s canal district is now the location of the landmark statue of the Little Mermaid which is attributed to the man himself. Nyhaven is the perfect place to enjoy one of Denmark’s many distinguished beverages, the harbour is lined with a wide range of cafes where you can enjoy watching the hive of activity around the quayside. If you want to see the city from a different angle and enjoy soaking up the atmosphere and the clean, crisp sea air, you can catch one of the English speaking boat tours which will take you on a fascinating trip around Copenhagen’s numerous waterways and the Danish coastline.
are lucky enough to be there when Queen Margrethe II is in residence you will also be treated to a military marching band accompanying the guardsmen. For people who love shopping, Stroget, a pedestrian-only zone situated in the centre of Copenhagen, is definitely the place to go. This collection of pedestrianised shopping streets dates back to 1962 and measures nearly a full mile in length. Commonly known to be the longest street of its kind in the world, Stroget is famed for its diverse range of street entertainment including jugglers, musicians and magicians: it’s certainly a full shopping and entertainment experience. As well as being able to find quirky souvenirs and gorgeous collectibles, you will also find some of the country’s most illustrious and expensive stores located in this district. Illums Bolighus, the acclaimed Danish name in home décor can be found in this locale, as well as Royal Scandinavia and
32 OCTOBER 2011
the Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Factory. This charming area is the perfect place for you to while away many happy hours leisurely strolling through its streets and alleyways seeing all the amazing things that Denmark has to offer. Another of Denmark’s finest shopping disticts is in the city of Odense, the third largest city in the country. For those people who appreciate the finer things in life, George Jenson Damask can be found here and can entice you with their luxurious bed linens, towels and tablecloths. In Bazar Funen you can sample many local specialities and hunt down amazing bargains on clothing and local jewellry as well as other Danish treasures. Odense, located on the island of Funen, is also famed to be the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. As well as being able to view different exhibitions on his life and work in the Hans Christan Anderson House, children are also invited to relive his fairytales in the cultural centre, Fytojet. This renowned writer also spent part of his life living in the Danish capital.
Denmark’s 7,300km coastline has the perfect blend of clear water, fresh sea air and beautiful beaches to offer you the perfect summer holiday. Along the West coast of Jutland, stretching from the northern town of Skagen down to Romo in the South, you can see some of the most impressive beaches in the country. Lovely fine sand and clear blue waters create the ideal conditions for you to relax and enjoy the dazzling vistas while soaking up the sun. For food lovers, a trip to Denmark would not be complete without a visit to one of its most eminent culinary establishments, Noma. This innovative restaurant boasts not just one but two Michelin stars and is located in a converted warehouse on the Copenhagen waterfront. Noma has been voted the world’s best restaurant for the past two years running and cements Denmark’s position as one of the leading culinary destinations in Europe. Denmark is without a doubt the centre of the ‘New Nordic’ food movement which has been started by chefs across the country to revamp traditional time honoured dishes using innovative new ideas and promoting local produce while remaining true to the Nordic heritage. Denmark is a rich and exciting country which prides itself on being at the forefront of design, arts and cultural activities. You can’t help but be taken aback with the magnificence, architecture and beauty of this fascinating nation: without a doubt, not a place to be missed!
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FOCUS
TOWARDS A BRIGHT FUTURE AMAL VAN HEES, DIRECTOR OF BRIDGING THE GULF FOUNDATION TALKS TO MYSSAA SAID AL HINAI ON WOMEN’S REPRESENTATION IN THE MAJLIS A’SHURA AND WHY IT’S NECESSARY FOR WOMEN TO JOIN HANDS, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE HIGH STATUS ACCORDED TO THEM AND PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE BUILDING OF THE NATION
34 OCTOBER 2011
A
s the seventh Majlis A’Shura elections get underway this month, it will be interesting to note how many women will be elected to the Shura Council this year. It may be noted that women’s entry to the Council remains one of the most important and debated issues in recent times. This has also been largely precipitated by the fact that no woman was elected to the Council in the previous session. It was clear that the majority of voters opted for men and not for women. Such an outcome raised many pertinent questions. Who was responsible for the failure? Why did women fail to be elected to represent their communities, despite the strong national support and women-friendly laws in the Sultanate? Amal Van Hees, Director of Bridging the Gulf Foundation throws light on what could be the possible reasons for the failure and also indicates the way forward. “Making the decision to run for the Shura Council is a very important one and it certainly means that the woman is considering playing an active role in society. Therefore, her first step, long before advertising her candidacy for the Shura Council should be to develop her inter-personal skills and experience and be a good communicator. In essence, she was must be active in the field of community service; that will in turn reflect her abilities and seriousness towards the cause,” she says. Amal says that the laws in the Sultanate grant women the right to run for election and provide her with many facilities in this process. According to her, women should utilise this support provided to them on policy making and legistation. “Women should be intelligent enough to take advantage of the laws that grant them the same rights as men. I am really astonished at the lack of a ‘union’ among women in the Sultanate. They should create proper channels to discuss women’s issues as women can
to ‘present’ themselves well. By this, Amal means that they should talk about what’s ‘real’ to add more credibility to their candidature. If she has a good record of achievements, she should talk about it. “Women’s empowerment and raising awareness of the importance of a woman’s role in society is an educational process. Raising public awareness of her role does not start with awareness campaigns; it begins and ends with the woman herself. Each woman should instill and promote this culture among the groups she is in contact with. This way, many stereotypes will be broken and many misconceptions removed.”
easily understand the problems faced by their gender. We have to recognise the high status given to us and utilise it for the greater good,” she says. Amal feels that the existence of a ‘Women’s Union’ would help in obtaining rights most sought-after by women. The presence of such unions will act as ideal platforms to voice their concerns and interests. ”All women candidates should be aware that the time of enticing voters with ‘promises’ has gone. The voters today have become more intelligent in the selection of candidates. They are well aware of who the deserving candidate is. Candidates therefore have to be smarter, accurate and real in the promises made to masses. They have to work towards fulfilling them,” she added. What’s important, reiterates Amal, is the need for Omani women to join hands to turn their aspirations into reality. “I feel that it’s against logic that 50 per cent of the community has no one from their gender to voice their concerns at the Shura Council. But this does not mean that we want women to join the Council just because they are women, but because they are competent and skilled to be the true voices of their communities,” she says. Women candidates should also be able
Ultimately, Amal says, it’s not just about having women representatives in the Shura Council, but about them playing an active role in formulating policies and shaping the future of their societies. Studies have shown that women have played significant roles in most laws adopted by parliaments in education, health and civil service. They are as capable as men when it comes to decision-making. Amal believes that the failure suffered by Omani women during the last session was the result of a number of misconceptions. “Omani women have played a very important role in the building of this nation. They have been pioneers in different fields, long before the oil boom. After the boom that generated financial stability in the community, the role of Omani women decreased significantly.” His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has always ensured equal rights and opportunities to women in the Sultanate. It’s up to the women to do their best and prove worthy of the trust and confidence reposed in them. They should join hands to change stereotypes and misconceptions and prove that they are as capable and efficient as men. They should turn challenges into opportunities and work towards success. Doing this will surely ensure them proper representation in the Shura Council.
OCTOBER 2011 35
DREAMS & ASPIRATIONS Eighty-two women are contesting the Majlis A’Shura elections to be held this month. The number is far higher than that of the previous election held in 2007, wherein only 21 women were in the fray. Unfortunately, not a single woman was elected to the Council in the last term. Al Mar’a spoke to some of the women candidates this year, who undeterred by the results of the sixth term, have resolved to dream big and are confident of playing a major role, if elected to the Shura Council.
“My focus would be to enhance the role of job seekers in the building of the nation by providing them with proper training programmes. I will also encourage women to be active players in the political scene. I will also raise their awareness of the existing Omani laws that support and uphold the rights of the Omani women to ensure women’s empowerment. I will also focus on the social problems of the local communities. If I become a member, I’d like to have my own office, where people can come and discuss matters of interest, which in turn, I’d take to the Council for deliberation and consideration.” Shaikha bint Said Ali Al Mudhaffar Candidate for the wilayat of Barka “I have 37 years of experience in the field of social work and international relations. I hope to serve the poor by helping
36 OCTOBER 2011
them improve their standards of living. My focus would also be to enhance the role of youth in the development process by providing them job opportunities. I will also encourage the establishment of sports and cultural clubs to help hone their talents and skills. I will join hands with the local agencies such as the wali office to serve the needs of local communities and also the Omani society at large. H.E Ambassador Khadijah al Lawati Candidate for the wilayat of Muttrah “I will focus more on the needs of my wilayat and be an active member in society. I believe that being
a Shura Council member helps you bring issues of interest and concerns of your local community to the top authorities. I will primarily focus on women’s issues such as late marriage and divorce. I will also try to create channels for the youth to utilise their talents
and energies in serving the society. Amnah al Sharqi Candidate for the wilayat of Shinas “This is not the first time that I’m contesting for the Shura Council. I had and still have the conviction that being a Shura Council member helps you to bring the problems of your community to the surface. I hope to serve my community in a better way and benefit from the support extended by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the Omani woman. I will do my best to enhance the capabilities of the Omani women, especially housewives. I also feel that women are the best to represent women in the legislative council because they are aware of what they need. I will do my best to be worthy of the trust and strive to fulfill my promises. I don’t want to be nominated for the Shura Council by only women but I need the support of men as well.” Mariam Belhaf Candidate for the wilayat of Salalah “If I’m elected to the Shura Council, I will do my best to meet the needs of my local community which suffers from lack of basic infrastructure despite its strategic location which can
make it a tourist and business hub. I will also strive to create the largest possible number of job opportunities for the people of the wilayat. On the other hand, I will
also focus on meeting the different challenges facing our youth.” Muna Al Shahi Candidate for the wilayat of Khasab “I believe that serving my local community also means serving the society at large. I will focus mainly on social, educational and health issues as they are pivotal in achieving long-term and sustainable development. I will do my best to raise the relevant and important issues faced by the local community. I am aware that needs are changing and differ from one person to another so I will focus on the different types of issues I may encounter.” Najiyah Al Marboyi Candidate for the wilayat of Ibra
PROFILE
M
eeting Her Highness Sayyidah Wisam Jaifar Salim Al Said is a sheer delight. The optimism, enthusiasm, confidence and passion for work she exudes is indeed infectious. Sayyida Wisam has had a long day at work, and yet she is bright, chirpy and ready for a quick interview. The conversation is informal for the most part, because she’s an interviewee who puts you at ease immediately and so the questions just keep coming. And the answers are crisp and to the point. There’s absolutely no doubt that she’s articulate as she speaks every word with emphasis and conviction, and you just nod your head as the conversation flits across different topics. Sayyidah Wisam is Corporate Affairs Manager at Oman Oil Marketing Company SAOG. She joined the company in 2007 on her return to Oman after having lived in many countries all over the world. Sayyidah Wisam’s father was a diplomat and his work took him around the globe and thus, the family lived in places
H.H. SAYYIDAH WISAM JAIFAR SALIM AL SAID, CORPORATE AFFAIRS MANAGER AT OMAN OIL MARKETING COMPANY TALKS TO AL MAR’A ABOUT WORK, EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AND ALL THINGS DEAR TO HER…
THE MEDIUM IS
THE MESSAGE 38 OCTOBER 2011
as diverse as Cairo, Washington D.C., Vienna, Bahrain, Holland and Paris. The longest stint was in Paris where the family stayed for nine years and it’s here Sayyidah Wisam completed her Bachelor’s in International Corporate Communications from the American University. Shortly after, she worked briefly with UNESCO’s Public Bureau of Information before she moved back to Oman. Sayyidah Wisam remembers seeing the bright colour and vivid logo of omanoil and falling in love with the brand instantly. “I had no idea that I would be eventually working with it. I also remember seeing the advertising for Basma (an omanoil promotion)… and it was all new to me.” She was hired as a communications manager for a department that had just been set up and since then, she’s been an integral part of the company’s communications process. “Now, as Corporate Affairs manager, I have a team of four working with me and we take care of the entire gamut of communications that include liaising with the press and ministries, advertisement, events and promotions. From conceptualisation, strategy to final execution, we do them all! It’s exciting as it’s a creative process and the job is fun,” she adds. Does she find her job challenging as well? “Any job comes with its sets of challenges,” says Sayyidah Wisam adding that ‘competition is a challenge but it only makes you stronger. I think I manage to bypass most of the challenges as we are a very driven team of professionals’. The conversation then veers to the communications field in Oman. Sayyidah Wisam is happy to be part of the growth of ‘communications’ in the country. “I think the public in general, is more
communication savvy now than before and since competition is increasing in all sections, every company realises that it is very important to keep the public informed on their services and also importantly, the quality of their services,” she avers.
“Setting goals always gives me a direction in life, both professionally and personally. I write them down at the beginning of the day and as I keep achieving them, there is a true sense of satisfaction.”
What does communication mean to Sayyidah Wisam? “To me, communications means reaching out to the public and letting them know what we are capable of and what our services are. We are truly a customer-oriented company in that sense. It also reflects our values. We care about what our customers are looking for. For example, we opened a Burger King outlet at the Qurum filling station, we’ve Dunkin Donuts, the quick service restaurants as well; and that’s the kind of strategy we are looking at.” And what are the qualities of a good communicator? “It’s important to know what vehicles you have to work with; the right message to put across and the person whom you are trying to communicate with. Behind any good communicator is also direction and strategy.”
With such a responsible job, how does she manage to strike that often elusive work-life balance? She has a sensible answer. “I’m not going to say that it’s easy juggling work and family life. But time management is important. Sometimes, I do take work home or come to office on weekends. But I’m lucky that I work in a company where family is respected. But for me, it’s important that after work hours, I dedicate time to my family. If I don’t have any other obligations, I put down my manager’s hat and put on my ‘mommy’ hat and so far, it’s working fine.” The conversation moves to the role of women in society and the glass ceiling.
“Honestly, we are privileged to be in Oman where women hold high positions in all sectors and fields. These women have paved the way for others and become role models that we all have to emulate. I have not faced the glass ceiling and I believe we are all treated equally.” Success often comes from inspiration. We ask Sayyidah Wisam for hers. “My husband who is a very dedicated and hardworking young person has always encouraged me to realise my potential. I’ve always had support from my family; my father is also an inspirational figure in the sense that he has always taught us to ‘put our feet on the ground’ and remember our roots.” She’s a go-getter because she’s a compulsive goal-setter as well. “Setting goals always gives me a direction in life, both professionally and personally. I write them down at the beginning of the day and as I keep achieving them, there is a true sense of satisfaction.” In the future, Sayyidah Wisam continues to see herself as a career woman. “That’s in my blood,” she says. Al Mar’a wishes her all the very best in her endeavours.
OCTOBER 2011 39
WELLBEING
W
hen I was a young girl and wracked by feelings of insecurity and battered selfesteem, I often wondered whether there was a way I could run away from myself. I seemed to be weighed down by the pressures, not of life, but of living. I make this little but relevant differentiation because the pressures of life are denoted by a multitude of events, circumstances, and situations. The pressures of living, however, are all about the inability to handle these various situations and circumstances. Under the stress of such impotency, the mind finds it difficult to differentiate between the circumstance and the subjective response, or lack thereof. The grey and ambiguous area thus formed becomes the proverbial quicksand for
the desperate and the hopeless. It is an emotional phenomenon hard to understand, much less describe. But lady luck was in attendance and after an eternity of being in darkness, I could see the light at the end of a tunnel. Even better, I learnt to light up an entire, thankfully never-ending, tunnel of life. There is a way, indeed. Chaos is man-made. Chaos is not a situation created by the man outside of us. Chaos is not just created but it is also embellished generously by our own minds. The mind thrives and nourishes itself through drama. It is strange, but true, that when it senses or perceives harmony, it looks to throw in a pebble and watch the ripples form! Maybe it finds it difficult to cope with its own inner silence. Or, perhaps it looks
Be
stress-free
WHEN THE MIND IS KEPT IN THE MOMENT IT EXPERIENCES THE EFFECTS OF DEEP REST. IT IS FROM THIS STATE THAT WE CAN FUNCTION WITH THE GREATEST EFFICACY, SAYS DR. PREMA SESHADRI
40 OCTOBER 2011
to feed the social animal in him albeit it is through rumbles. There is this little niggling thought as to whether it is because it experiences a vicarious thrill in instigating a riot and feels the satisfaction of control. Whatever the reason, the mind is a little monkey. It needs constant activity to amuse itself, without the foresight needed to realise the consequences of its actions. The monkey mind makes for interesting observation. It has the vacillating tendency of an oldfashioned pendulum clock. It veers to the past, glorifies it or perversely regrets it, or even lets it flame its fury. Or, it will swing to the future and worry about its uncertainty or amusingly imagine it in its most unappealing form! And in the process, it completely overlooks the existence of the present. If the mind only knew the skills of ensconcing itself firmly in this present moment, it would realise that this moment very quickly becomes the past and the relevance of it vanishes. And along with that the monkey too disappears! There is certain ingenuity in this skill, but it is so amazingly efficient and potently effective that another element is realised. We battle the mind from the level of the mind. How ridiculous is that! The mind is so abstract, so intangible, so difficult
to place a finger on, much less describe, and here we are attempting to control and direct it with another abstract entity! Something a lot more tangible is needed to take care of this mind. I found the way that has illuminated my way since. Though the Latin world came up with the word ‘stringere’ way back in the 17th century to describe hardship and affliction, its derivative ‘stress’ was not put into our vocabulary until Hans Seyle defined it 56 years ago. So, no one really knew they were stressed until about 1956. I amused myself a little bit. I wondered what really happened in 1956! The Russians began nuclear testing. I believe a black man was admitted into the University of Alabama for the first time. Elvis Presley came up with his first television performance. My mother gave birth to me. To me these are all potential stressors! When I Googled for events that happened in 1956, the much-loved wikepedia came up with an event that actually is responsible for the light that leads me today. The year gave the world a wise man responsible for reviving ancient techniques to anchor the mind to the present moment and thus eliminate stress. Like the millions around the world, I too was not only fortunate to be guided by a spiritual master, but was inspired and trained to share this precious knowledge with people
from around the world. It is common knowledge that breath is life. We experience it every moment. What we need to understand is its connection with our mind. The breath changes according to our emotions and feelings. When unhappy or stressed, the mind is in a state of contraction. Time with all its despair seems to be unending. There is a tendency to resort to an unhealthy lifestyle to escape a troubled mind. This only compounds the troubles. When happy and unstressed, the mind expands and time seems to fly. In our desperation to hang on to this state of bliss and joy, we tend to once again resort to unhealthy measures. What we need are skills that will help us experience a mind that is in a state of equanimity and that will transcend time. When the mind is kept in the moment it experiences the effects of deep rest. It is from this state that we can function with the greatest efficacy. There is greater focus and concentration, better problem-solving ability, greater fortitude and understanding to foster better interpersonal relationships, and an unconditional enthusiasm and unbridled love for whatever we undertake. When the internal environment is stress-free, the outside environment can never feel pressurised.
(Dr. Prema Sheshadri is a psychologist, writer and entrepreneur)
OCTOBER 2011 41
PROFILE
42 OCTOBER 2011
Woman of many worlds BILJANA MOHAN SPEAKS TO AL MAR’A ON LIFE, CAREER, ET AL...
B
iljana Mohan’s life is one big story. It has so many different and diverse facets to it that you feel that it’s straight out of some film. And then she casually mentions she’s acted in a film herself… So where does one begin? With a description of her interesting career with Mercedes-Benz that Biljana (she insists that we call her Biba!) is now in, her spiritual side, her extraordinary academic achievements or her exemplary work with the UN? Well, to concentrate on the personality on the whole, we shall start at, what they call the very beginning. Biba is originally from Croatia where she stayed until the age of 14 and had to move to Serbia with her parents because of conflict in the region. It was a trying time for her as the family was uprooted and literally moved from riches to rags when they became refugees. But she promised herself that, no matter what, she would obtain an internationally recognised diploma. Soon after high school, she joined the UN where she worked for a year and a half as an interpreter. “I was 19 years old and I was earning four times the salary as
my dad. Being an interpreter gave me an opportunity to meet different people and learn a lot of things,” she says. After this stint, she decided to go back to her studies in Belgrade and enrolled for a tourism course, but dropped out soon after because she was disillusioned with the whole system. “I decided to go back to the UN but the mission in Croatia had ended. I got a job as soon as I applied but the mission was in Kosovo. I lied to my parents that I was in Macedonia while I was actually toughing it out in Kosovo, in a hostile atmosphere where I even faced near-death experiences. But I was determined to continue…” While working in Kosovo, she discovered the ‘Balkan Presidential Scholarship’ contest on the net. She applied and won a $40,000 scholarship to study at John Cabot University in Rome where she graduated in International Affairs. After completing the course, she was one of the few students to obtain another scholarship, this time, for a Masters in Peace Studies at the famous Notre Dame University in the US. “After completing my Masters, I came back to Serbia and was
shocked that, after four months of searching, I still could not find a job. It was then that a friend informed me of a job opportunity in Dubai. But life in Dubai also came with its fair share of hardships; after five months of delay in payment, the company I was working with folded up and I again went through a ‘refugee’ kind of feeling. But this time, I looked at it from a spiritual point of view and thought of it as a test I had to pass. I became a yoga teacher and in one of my classes, I met my husband and later, the move to Oman happened.” In between, she also made trips to India where she got in touch with her spiritual side and also acted in a Marathi (an Indian language) film which won her an award as well. Biba is currently Senior Marketing Executive with Mercedes-Benz (Zawawi Trading Co. LLC) and oversees the brand’s marketing in Oman. “My job is packed with many activities; I liaise with the media, come up with ideas and concepts for promotions, work on the company’s website and plans to keep the brand in the spotlight. It’s creative, exciting and even overwhelming at
times as it keeps me on my toes the whole day,” she says. Biba feels that the fact that the name Mercedes-Benz sells for itself is a definite advantage. “This helps us strategise and concentrate on different things like partnering the Al Mar’a Excellence Awards for example. I’d like to think that we strive to do things different from others,” she adds. She reflects that perhaps this job was meant to give her life the grounding and stability it needed. “I was flying in too many directions,” she says. She sees herself as a ‘people’s person’ and therefore suited to media and marketing. She’s also very much into yoga and advises women to take it up to achieve a wonderful sense of well-being. One of her aims is also to propagate human values through education. We ask her about her philosophy in life and she gives us a striking philosophical answer in return. “It is purity in thoughts, words and actions and absolute faith in consciousness that runs the Universe - that brings us to surrender, the hardest thing to achieve. But we must remember that surrender does not mean weakness, but inner knowing that whatever happens is for our good.”
OCTOBER 2011 43
Tough questions. Straight answers. By invitation only
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Oman Debate 2011 brings together key ďŹ gures from the private sector and high-ranking members of the government, who are all set to re-examine smouldering issues that the Arab Spring has brought to the fore.
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GO TECH
o you own an iPad? Don’t you think it’s the coolest gadget ever to hit us in recent times? What about the apps? They’re cool too! And there are special ones, for us women to enjoy! Whether it’s info on health, fitness, fashion or simply fun… iPad apps simply rock…
D
Here are some cool iPad apps you can enjoy…
APPS UP! A list of our favourite iPad apps and why we totally dig them
NOTABLE NOTES
Evernote Are you a compulsive ‘lister’? Well, we mean, do you love taking down notes… of things that need to be done or remembered. Well, Evernote is a perfect companion for all your jottings! Remember, store and organise photos, videos, documents and audio files. And if you’re the social media junkie, you can post your status and tweets on your Facebook and Twitter accounts. What more do you want?
HEALTH FOR ALL
Women’s Health Magazine Do you love the Women’s Health magazine? With the iPad edition, you can read it exactly as it appears in print. A single tap is all you need to do to explore the issue. In the 46 OCTOBER 2011
Enhanced View, blue icons signal that a page has multi-media extras, tweetable content or a poll. Each month, get your favourite WH workouts, tips, in-depth feature stories enhanced with exclusive video and bonus content. Here’s to good health, always!
FOOD & FUN
Epicurious This is a simply mouth-watering app, and a wonderful way to hone your cooking skills. Epicurious is a resplendent full-screen cookbook full of delicious recipes and ‘scrumptious’ pictures. This finger-friendly app is your perfect friend for delicious adventures in the kitchen. You can have the recipe instructions displayed on the side while looking at the ingredients, photos, user reviews, and nutritional information. There is even a little bookmark so you can keep your place as you look at other sections.
JUST ASK HOW
How To Videos from Howcast.com (for iPad)
Food Watcher Calorie Counter by FatSecret for iPad If you like to watch what you eat, the Calorie Counter is the essential app to simply find nutritional info for the food you eat and easily keep track of your meals, exercise and weight. Unique to FatSecret is the ability to scan or enter the barcode of the item you are eating and receive nutrition information if you’re connected to the internet. If you want to start tracking what you eat, but also want to save a few bucks, and don’t mind ads and a more limited food and exercise database, then this app is a great value. Here’s a fun way to find out ‘how-to’s with just a click. Need to check a recipe? Change oil on the road? Tie a bow tie? Look up things when you’re on the go or maybe you just want to be entertained and learn something new? With Howcast for iPad, learning to do just about anything,
wherever you are, is easier and more fun than ever before. Now don’t just ask how, look it up and do it!
BEAT THE STRESS
Stress Check Stress Check is a research-based application compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. This allows you to understand and lower your stress. This is developed by clinical psychologists with expertise in stress management. Stress Check presents in depth results and explanations on how you
incur stress. You may view all stress related information into your personal stress profile. It also supports push notifications which will update you with some tips how to relieve stress. Well, getting rid of stress is totally upto you… This app only helps towards the goal, if you have one!
PERIOD PLUS
iPeriod Menstrual Calendar Enter in the first day and last day of your period for at least two consecutive cycles, and iPeriod calculates your average duration, cycle length and estimates the dates of your next expected periods. A must have for doctor’s appointments, event planning and estimating when to leave the house prepared! The imaginative calendar also allows you to track body reactions, using colourful emoticons and imagery. There’s also an active forum for women to discuss different issues.
FASHION FORWARD
The Cut on the Runway This app lets users see all the latest catwalk shows in one place, from all over the world. There is good search functionality allowing users to browse catwalk photos and a neat function that allows users to rate the latest looks from the runway. The app takes a little long time to load, but is a good aggregator of fashion news and videos and is worth the wait.
GOOD THINGS
TOMMY HILFIGER
KENNETH COLE
COOL PRODUCTS TO SURPRISE YOUR LOVED ONE WITH...
WOW STUFF TOMMY HILFIGER
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48 OCTOBER 2011
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SMART CHOICES
FOR THE WOMEN ON THE GO, MUST-HAVES TO ‘SMARTEN’ UP HER PERSONALITY...
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OCTOBER 2011 49
FASHION PLUS
You are a true fashionista… and so you must keep up with the latest trends and what’s hot in the fashion world! Yesterday’s floral print may be today’s greatest faux pas… And that skirt you are wearing? Maybe, it went out of style seasons ago. And that’s why you need lots of info about the latest trends, so that you can step out looking like a trueblue fashionista. As seasons change, so do trends… Sometimes, a few spill over… Al Mar’a brings you the lowdown on what’s hot for Autumn-Winter and a few rules you must learn to live by, if you want to be noticed for your fashion sense!
Go, get the trend!
TREND ALERT! ALL ABOUT HOW TO BE A LA MODE, THIS AUTUMN-WINTER…
Skirting around
Did you know that skirt lines have increased to embrace the knees as well? Say goodbye to mini-skirts and hello to midi and maxi skirts. Skirts with mid-calf length appears in a multiplicity of different styles in flowing, loose fitting dresses, classic cuts and slots and interesting mixed prints variations.
50 OCTOBER 2011
Gender Bender
We all know that women have always been inspired by men’s fashion. This season, watch out for some stylish mannish shirts, suits, boots and hats. They offer an overall smart look to your personality. Sometimes brash… sometimes bizarre… but definitely fashionable!
Sheer delight
Think winter and think sheer? Doesn’t sound practical, right? But throw away practicality to the winds and bring the sexiness of sheer in… as that’s what’s hot on all the runways this season. Sheer dresses, skirts and blouses are making their way and so are peek-a-boo tops. Layer a sheer top over a solid and see heads turn!
OCTOBER 2011 51
BEAUTY PLUS
All Frills
While gender reversal may be working its way into clothes, take heart that laces and frills are also very much in fashion. Autumnwinter brings out the romance with pleats, frills, cute rosettes and lovely embroidery. Fall collections highlight feminine dresses, decorated with weightless laces and ruffles.
rd Best foot forldwa look like… What your shoes shou
Wild affair
Animal prints continue to be the rage with leopard and python prints at the top of the must-have list. Fashion goes really wild with features and wild animals being printed on fabric. Now seemingly a perennial theme – leopard, python, cheetah, faux fur and metallic, in more subtle tones they are even on skinny jeans too.
• Shiny Satin – For special occasions, don those satin shoes to look chic and glamorous. • Platforms & Wedges – These now come in modest and elegant forms • High-heeled – Chunky heels provide all the comfort and confidence you need while spikes are stylish.
Baggin’ it
And here’s what’s hot on the bag scen
e…
Winter and looks Au Naturel - Nude colours are for Fallings. even absolutely chic during balmy winter and are trend l nnia pere a Pretty & Floral – Florals are robe ward your to y ninit femi more here to stay. Bring gns. desi l flora to ing by stick over from Deadly combos – Combined colour spill away, yet! them keep just t don’ So Spring-Summer…
Get cosy
It’s the season of super chunky knits. And there are several ways to wear them. As a jumper dress, a softedgy dress or as a scarf. Cardigans and sweater coats are a must wear for Fall 2011, and are especially stylish when worn dressy or casual! Mix and match over jackets, shirts, blouses, tank-tini’s or even a dress.
Burst of colour
You’d think that with the onset of fall and winter, designers would stick to neutral or reserved colours like black, brown, navy, cream and dark violet. This season, the trend veers towards brighter and eye-popping colours like crimson, neon orange, purple, sky blue and others. The combinations are daring too. Red is the uplifting fashion colour while Oyster Gray is one of the neutral colours.
OCTOBER R 2011 53
LIFE, ETC
FORGIVENESS ALLOWS US TO GROW AS A RESULT OF LESSONS LEARNT AND PREVENTS US FROM THE PAIN OF BITTERNESS, SAYS DR. NADA AL AJMI
FORGIVE & FORGET I
t may be easy to let go of a harsh behaviour from someone who is not significant in your life. You may even pity them. But hurtful acts coming from a person who matters to you can threaten your happiness. It is always difficult to forgive people you care about. When the hurt is done the fact remains and you cannot change it, and the only option left is to accept that which you cannot change and forgive it all.
(Dr Nada Al Ajmi is Assistant Professor, Sultan Qaboos University, Certified Trainer – Springboard Women’s Development and Life Coach – Aspire Training and Consultancy. You can write to her at lifealmara@umsoman.com) 54 OCTOBER 2011
When you forgive you become determined in not letting what someone else did to destroy you. And remember, when you forgive, it has nothing to do with how big the wrong was, but it is all about freeing yourself from carrying the burden of grudge and pain. I liked Elizabeth Brown, the psychologist’s analysis about forgiveness. She explains that it turns mere survival into victorious living as it cuts you off from the power of your abusers and your desire to do them wrong. Failure to forgive locks you into self focus that makes you hungry for revenge. She answers the question of how to forgive someone who has never acknowledged his mistake, by
distinguishing between ‘forgiveness’ and ‘dutiful response’. Forgiveness is unconditional; if a condition must be met such as an apology or an acknowledgment from the abuser then the act changes from forgiveness to a dutiful response. Forgiveness does not depend on other people’s behaviour. One of the most common questions that come up in the process of forgiveness is, how can you forget all the wrongs done to you? The answer is, you are not supposed to forget. There is no magical button in your system that can erase specific memories, and the more you try to forget or deny the hurts, the memories jump back from the smallest trigger. You are not supposed to suppress or forget the painful memories. But metaphorically, as Elizabeth Brown puts it, you can store those memories in a file under the heading ‘No Longer Relevant Except For Lessons’. So if a painful memory got triggered, you remember it as a sad or difficult time, but one from which you have grown wiser. When you forgive, the
hard times become growth times, the memories of the sad times makes the good times more precious, and overcoming a sad past becomes a source of pride. Forgiveness allows us to grow as a result of lessons learnt and prevents us from the pain of bitterness. Forgiveness is about not to victimise yourself twice: first by the wrong done to you, and the second by hanging onto the wrong or seeking revenge. Remember don’t let your pride play its game by labelling your revengeful feeling as ‘justifiable’. Revenge is never justifiable, but it is self-inflicted retaliation, and wrong never justifies wrong. However justice always takes its course, and one reaping of his actions. Forgiveness is crucial to your emotional and spiritual health, yet it requires hard work. The only thing that turns a wrong around, is when one grows from it. All it needs is a decision to forgive, and remember, forgive as many times as necessary to free yourself from suffering.
RECOMMENDS
Where: Glamour Beauty Salon, Madinat Qaboos Ph: 24699926 What: Bio Anti Frizz Elements from Jean de Perle
What’s it all about: It’s a new, unique and revolutionary innovative hair care system that restores all types of hair while controlling volume and frizz. It has no formaldehyde, no aldehyde and no more chemicals. It’s based on acidic proteins and amino acids that are compatible to hair which lubricates and seals the cuticle. The vitamins in Argil Clay easily penetrate the wire providing intense hydration, reflecting the high gloss in hair. How it works: It is very effective on dry and curled hair. This new technology replaces the formaldehyde usually present in hair care treatments allowing no harmful side effects such as sore eyes or a sore throat. Since it’s made of organic materials such as clay, it’s ecofriendly as well. The best part is that you can wash your hair on the same day while other treatments do not allow you to wash for three to four days. Our verdict: Transform curly and frizzy hair to elegant looking hair in only 45 minutes. Clay is the newest weapon for treating frizz or damaged hair as a clay mask can be applied to all types of hair. This treatment acts on hair helping in deep cleansing, revitalising and giving shine to hair.
OCTOBER 2011 55
YOUR BEAUTY CHECKLIST‌ BEAUTY ZONE
TWIST & TWIRL
Control and customise your eyelashes with the new Revlon CustomEyes Mascara! It has adjustable bristles that allow women to make their eyelashes long and beautifully defined or glamorous and dramatically long. Simply click the dial on the cap and the multi-coloured rows of bristles on the mascara brush change formation to provide lashes for a wide, defined effect or to layer them for an elongated, dramatic look. How cool is that?
KEEP COOL
Clarins brings you the Eye Contour Gel, a cooling gel to minimise puffiness and dark circles. It prepares skin for eye make-up application and long-lasting wear. Made with certified organic plant extracts, this pure and refreshing gel is the way to go if you want to look gorgeous and lovely for a party.
EYES RIGHT
Get a load of the new mascara from M.A.C. The Opulash Optimum Black delivers a more saturated black plus extra-volumisation with the most bodacious brush. Extreme expansion and curl, formed with a blend of silica plates of mica and natural kaolin thick and grab each lash with every application. It resists flaking, smudging and humidity with multi-functional emollient ester flexibility, superior adhesion and water gel instant conditioning for even the most sensitive of eyes. 56 OCTOBER R 2011
BEAUTIFUL EYES
Estée Lauder has launched a new revolutionary skincare product aimed at dark circles and puffiness. Utilising a first ever patent-pending specially-contoured, cooling ceramic-tip applicator, New Idealist Cooling Eye Illuminator instantly cools, massages and re-energises the look of tired, puffy eyes, while innovative, exclusive Triple-Optic Technology instantly makes dark circles look lighter. Brighter, more rested-looking eyes are revealed immediately. Additionally, an exclusive, highly concentrated Dark Circle Correcting Complex works overtime to help reduce and prevent the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Offered in two shades suitable for all skin tones, now women of all ethnicities can achieve their ideal eyes.
BE RADIANT
Enjoy long-lasting colour and healthy hair with Kérastase Reflection. Special hair care comes in the form of products like Chroma Sensitive and Chroma Cristal. The Chroma Sensitive is the first anti fading cleansing balm that washes hair without washing out your colour to prolong radiance. To add a crystal-like shine to your hair, use the leave-in, lightweight, shine-perfecting Chroma Cristal. Give your hair the gift of Kérastase Reflection and flaunt gorgeous and luminous tresses with longerlasting colour.
FLORAL WHIFF
Quizás, Quizás, Quizás Pasión is a new fragrance from the House of Loewe created as a successor to the fragrance Quizás, Quizás, Quizás. The new edition is available in a flacon shaped like its antecedent, with a more seductive colour of liquid. The new fragrance is inspired by the tango and composed of intense floral notes that seduce and dance on your skin. It brings out fresh notes of bergamot, juicy mandarin and bright and sweet red berries in top notes. The heart adds a floral bouquet—magnolia, orange blossom and fresh freesia flowers, while the base encompasses fine woody notes of vetiver and cashmere, as well as warm amber nuances. Go, get it now!
REV IT UP
Lips just got louder and gloss is going to a luscious new level. Rimmel London Vinyl Gloss has long been a make-up must have. Now, this make-up icon comes in an incredible hi-volume version for the most voluptuous pout ever. Experience gloss like never before with club-ready lips with BIG impact. But this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the sensation on lips, Vinyl Max still makes your lips feel the softest and most comfortable ever! Feel the bass… it’s time to pump up the volume. Go big or go home! OCTOBER 2011 57
CUISINE
VEGGIE DELIGHTS
ON THE OCCASION OF WORLD VEGETARIAN DAY, HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE LIP-SMACKING VEGETARIAN DELICACIES TO WHIP UP IN YOUR KITCHEN… GO AHEAD, ENJOY THE GOODNESS FRESH VEGETABLES BRING TO EVERYDAY COOKING…
GREEK SALAD Serves: 2
3 tbsp olive oil 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice 1 clove garlic, minced ½ tsp dried oregano ¼ tsp sea salt ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper and extra for garnish 3 tomatoes cut into wedges ¼ red onion, sliced into rings ½ a cucumber, sliced into half-moons ½ green pepper, julienned 4 oz feta cheese, cubed 16 olives Place the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and oregano in a small jar with a screw-top lid and shake to combine. Place the salad ingredients in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine just before serving. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper.
58 OCTOBER 2011
FALAFEL WRAP Serves: 3
1 cup dried chickpeas ½ large onion, roughly chopped 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped 1 tsp salt ½ tsp dried hot red pepper 4 cloves garlic 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp baking powder
Vegetable oil for frying Chopped tomatoes for garnishing Tahina sauce Pita bread Put the chickpeas in a large bowl and add enough cold water to cover them by at least two inches. Let them soak overnight and then drain. Blend the uncooked chickpeas, onions, parsley, cilantro, salt, hot pepper, garlic and cumin. Do not puree. Sprinkle in baking powder and flour and pulse.
Add a little more flour so that the dough forms a small ball and does not stick to your hands. Keep in bowl and refrigerate, covered for a few hours. Divide the chickpea dough into balls of equal size (about the size of a walnut each). Heat oil and fry them until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Stuff half a pita bread with falafel balls, chopped tomatoes, onion and green pepper. Drizzle with tahina sauce.
OCTOBER 2011 59
CUISINE CUISINE
VEGETABLE AND TOFU RED CURRY Serves: 3
4tsp canola oil 1 Ÿ ounce package, tofu, rinsed, patted dry and cut into one-inch cubes 1 sweet potato, cut into cubes 400 ml coconut milk ½ cup vegetable broth 2 tsp red Thai curry paste 1 cup green beans or broccoli 1tbsp brown sugar 2 tsp lime juice 1 lime, quartered Salt to taste 1/3 cup cilantro Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over mediumhigh heat. Add tofu and cook, stirring every two to three minutes, until browned. Transfer to a plate. Take some more oil in a pan, add sweet potato and cook, till browned. Add coconut milk, broth and curry paste. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook, covered, stirring occasionally until the sweet potato is just tender. Add the tofu, broccoli and brown sugar. Return to simmer and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Stir in lime juice and salt. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
60 OCTOBER 2011
VEGETABLE PULAO Serves: 4
2 tbsp cooking oil 3 whole cloves 1 bay leaf 2 cinnamon sticks 2 black cardamom pods 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 onion, sliced thin 2 carrots, peeled and cut into long strips ½ cup cauliflower, chopped 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed ½ cup fresh green beans, cut into long strips ¼ cup frozen green peas 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed Salt to taste Water for cooking
Boil the vegetables in a microwave on high for five minutes. Heat the oil in a large skillet; fry the cloves, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and cumin seeds in the hot oil until fragrant for two to three minutes. Stir the onion and continue cooking until the onions are golden brown. This will take five to seven minutes. Add vegetables and salt and stir for five minutes. Boil rice separately in water and strain. The grains should be separate. When cool, add the vegetables and the masala onto the rice and mix gently. Serve with a raita. (chopped cucumber and tomatoes in yoghurt)
CUISINE
CARROT CAKE Serves: 4
3 tsp lemon juice 1 ¼ cups milk 2/3 cup vegetable oil 2 tsp orange zest 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 3 tsp vanilla extract 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ tsp baking powder 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground cloves ½ tsp salt 1 ½ cups grated carrots ½ cup chopped walnuts
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter an 8 inch springform pan. In a small bowl, add lemon juice to milk. Stir together and let stand 5 minutes. Sift flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves and salt together and set aside. In a large bowl, cream oil, orange zest and brown sugar. Add sour milk and vanilla. Add flour mixture and beat until smooth. Stir in the grated carrots and chopped nuts. Pour the batter into an 8 inch spring-form or other deep 8 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool.
AT HOME beds and other furniture away from windows. Make sure that doors to balconies are kept locked. Furniture or other objects on balconies should be arranged away from railings. • Locks and latches need to be changed as your child grows and starts to become more active and better at opening locks. Latches should be checked periodically, as mechanisms can break down when used often. This is especially true of plastic locks. • Keep your televisions on low, sturdy furniture. If you have the slimmer versions, mount them at a height on the wall. • Always remind children not to climb onto the furniture. Children love jumping on furniture and that can become very dangerous.
• Always stay close to your baby. You are the best defence and you can reduce risk by staying to close to them. • Your little bundle of joy can wiggle, kick and roll. So keep one hand on her while you change her. Also do not place car seats, carriers and rockers on furniture as this can result in very serious injury to the child. • Bolt safety gates to the wall at the top and bottom of the stairs. These gates can easily become separated from the wall if a baby pushes on them. • Keep your young child away from open windows and balcony railings. Always place cribs,
A baby in the house means you need to always keep a watch on what she’s doing. Here are some tips on how to keep your home safe for your child… • Teach your child the dangers of fire. However, teaching alone will not prevent your child from an injury. Young children, especially toddlers, can know a safety rule, but will not necessarily follow it. • As your child grows, he becomes increasingly active and can more easily reach and open cabinets. Medicines and cleaning products need to be locked in a place high up and out of your child’s reach. • In the kitchen, turn saucepan handles towards the back of the stove when cooking. • Replace tablecloths with place mats – they are harder to pull of the table – or put plates straight on the table. • Put away sharp things, including knives, scissors and graters, in a drawer with a childproof lock, or out of reach. • Store food processors and blenders out of reach when not in use. If they must stay on the bench, unplug them and turn the switches off the wall. • Use plastic socket covers in empty electrical sockets. • Wipe up spills on the floor as soon as possible.
• Slippery floors and shiny surfaces are dangerous, especially if you’re carrying your baby, so avoid using loose floor coverings. Lay anti-skid mats under rugs, or roll any floor coverings away.
Do share your fine housekeeping and personal grooming skills with other Al Mar’a readers. Write in to Al Mar’a, At Home, United Media Services, P.O. Box: 3305, Ruwi 112, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman or email us at almara@umsoman.com, Subject: At Home or fax us at 24707939. Do give us your name, address and GSM number.
OCTOBER 2011 63
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1 When was the brand Kipling created ? 2 What is the Kipling Brand mascot? 3 Where has Kipling opened its recent store? All you have to do is fax us the answers to 24707939 or e-mail it to us at almaraoman@gmail.com to win 64 someOCTOBER great prizes2011 from Kipling.
The Kipling story is one of great passion, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. It all started in 1987 in a small flat in Antwerp, the city of fashion. Three keen enthusiasts decided to make their entrance into the fashion world with a trendy yet affordable collection of bags. Armed with a strong brand, a powerful image, and an extensive range of fashionable, practical and high quality bags, Kipling has been busy conquering the world over the years. Or as The Herald Tribune put it: ‘Kipling has taken the bag world by storm’. So what is their mascot? It is a popular little monkey dangling from each bag. This Belgian brand is now firmly established. Kipling plays a part in the everyday life of more than 35 million women in 64 countries throughout the world. Their Kipling accompanies them on their way to work, on their shopping trips, whilst playing sports, at work, and on their evenings out. No wonder because Kipling bags are simply unique. They are not only super trendy but they are also of high quality, practical and affordable. Kipling’s legendary Basic collection comes up with brand-new materials for the future, and the fashion-forward Lacquer material is just one highlight of the season. Kipling’s origins in nylon bagwear pack a whole new punch this AW 11 season. And, what with the covetable colours and innovative designs to be found across the collections, the only trouble is going to be which designs to add to your style file... For the latest collection of Kipling head to the recently opened store on the ground level of Muscat City centre.
Eclectic Mix
FASHION
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THE CH CAROLINA HERRERA WOMEN’S COLLECTION FALL/ WINTER 2011 IS A FINE MIX OF THE SOPHISTICATED AND THE BOLD‌ Camel, green, earth, ivory, grey and black make up the colour palette for the CH Carolina Herrera 2011 winter collection. Precise cuts of contrasting volumes for coats, capes and oversized jackets are matched with pencil skirts and Capri pants. Tailored garments and masculinestyle trousers combine feminine touches with a hint of androgyny. In terms of fabrics, fine wools, tweed and reversible materials are accompanied by chunky knitwear and striking leather pieces. The party collection is a celebration of colour, flavoured with subtle floral prints. Silks and sequins in navy, red and black complete a collection that is both sophisticated and bold.
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FASHION
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FASHION
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It's time to wake up to the potential
72%
Oman’s economic hubs have the advantage of easy access to a large pool of young, educated working-age population! The time to capitalise on it is now…
of Oman’s population lives in its cities*
Oman Forum is a unique national platform that brings together key stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the economy, and to present the way forward on critical issues. Oman Forum 2011 will facilitate a high level government-corporate-academia dialogue for building and developing Oman’s national talent pool. The full-day event will bring together insights from senior government officials, corporate leaders, HR professionals, representatives of workers’ and student unions, and leading academics. The convergence of diverse perspectives over three distinct sessions will help identify solutions that are not just potentially more effective, but eminently practical as well.
ﺑﻨﺎء اﻟﻜﻔﺎءات اﻟﻮﻃﻨﻴﺔ Building National Talent DECEMBER 2011 An initiative by
*Source: World Development Indicators (WDI) 2010, The World Bank
In association with
Ministry of Civil Services
Knowledge Partner
The Research Council
For partnership enquiries please contact: AHMED 99356490
Media Partners
STARGAZING Aries - Time to capitalise on those big ideas you’ve been having like for ever! This month, you have the energy to translate these ideas into action. Also, you are feeling more confident than ever. So make the most of it… and go for it! On the social front, take some time out to catch up with old friends. You never know what opportunity awaits!
What the
stars
Taurus - You are a very caring person but don’t let people take advantage of you! Being concerned is alright but being the agony aunt all the time is just not done! Give advice only when required. It’s also time for some personal goal-setting! Get started on something new. The time’s just right!
foretell...
Gemini - When problems knock at your door, you’ll learn to deal with it. All you really have to do is outlast them! Make sure you keep your spirits up, and try to do the same for those around you who need the service. Keep financial speculations to the minimum; you never know what you might lose! Cancer - If you are feeling the blues, then it’s time to look inwards and contemplate. It would be a certain attitude that’s making you feel this way. Something from the past may be haunting you, stopping your present from evolving. Let go… and take some time out to get the right perspective. That’s the right way to help yourself.
new in your own way and on your own terms. Offer constructive criticism instead of being critical. Learn to be tactful… it will make you a better person.
your hard work and ability to manage a team. While your work life will dominate most of your time, you’ll still have the occasional break to be with yourself.
Leo - Take advantage of your positive energy. It’s one of those months when you have got a lot to give. So don’t be too surprised if you feel exhausted when all is said and done. You are willing to keep pushing even when others urge you to give up – and that persistence should pay off. You may expect a victory nobody could have seen coming.
Libra - A strong message goes out to all Librans this month. Go slow! Doing too many things on the go means that you will never appreciate any of them. If you are feeling bad, you need to realise that you are certainly projecting the negative vibes to the rest of the world. But take heart, you can shake yourself out it… Be around positive people and let their vibes trickle down to you!
Sagittarius - It is finally time to let your hair down and have some fun. Matters of career have always been centre stage, and now there is plenty of room in your life for recreation and enjoyment with friends. Make the most of it and don’t pass up on any invites.
Virgo - This month, dear Virgo, is all about learning. You need to try doing things differently to see if you can find a better way. Experiment is the key word here – learn something
Scorpio - Your social life is on the upswing and your ability to persuade people is stronger than ever. Things are certainly looking up on the career front and you’ll be recognised for
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Capricorn - September is a busy month for you and you can feel yourself being pulled in a number of directions. But you need to be serious about your family and domestic life as well. So bring out the more adventurous, fun-loving side of your personality and have a wonderful time with your family. Work pressures can be challenging,
but life’s not always easy, is it? Aquarius - Hard work pays off but don’t let it tire you out. This month is good for you financially and you’re now in a better position to attract money. But that does not mean that you blow it all… use it wisely and for what you desired the most. At work, some people can get a little intimidating, but it’s nothing that a little tact and diplomacy cannot handle. Pisces - October is the month for reviving relations. Do not hesitate from saying sorry, if you really mean it. Sometimes, showing your emotions is alright, it proves that you’re human like everyone else around you. The end of the month can bring good news along practical lines, especially regarding money and work. Your health may give some trouble though. So take care.
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