Out and About Magazine Issue 5 Vol. 3

Issue 5 Volume 3

Oct - Nov 2021

MEET

H.E. TARID SUFAN AMBASSADOR OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

OUT AND ABOUT AT

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BloomingBox’s

BEST UAE VIEWS

Tariq Abu Samra and Jaya Arunasalam, the gift specialists

10

LIFECHANGING BOOKS YOU MUST READ

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If you believe you can change—if you make it a habit—the change becomes real.

Charles Duhigg, The Power Of Habit: Why We Do What We Do In Life And Business

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Out & About Magazine

Editorial

Editor in chief

Marsha Fry

marsha@outandaboutmag.com

Editor

Anika Richards

info@outandaboutmag.com

art

Art director

nakul thanekar

nakul.thanekar89@gmail.com

advertising

sales & marketing sales@outandaboutmag.com

general enquiries hello@outandaboutmag.com

On this month's cover Out and About at Expo 2020 Dubai

outandaboutmagofficial outandaboutmagofficial outandaboutmagofficial

www.outandaboutmag.com

Photographer: Chirag Patel

Published by Out and About FZE (Registered at Fujairah Creative City)

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EDITOR’S

WELCOME “ We become what we repeatedly do. “ — Sean Covey

Simple, yet profound.

It is very easy to fall into a routine, especially when most days resemble the next day, with very little reason to break the cycle inbetween. We become accustomed to things as they are, and before we know it, time has elapsed and our behaviour becomes normalised to the point of becoming habits, which are not always positive.

Remember, we become what we do, so choose wisely.

Be deliberate in your undertakings and hold yourself to account. It will not be easy, and you won’t always hit the mark, but being consciously aware of your actions is a decent start.

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Together, let’s choose a path or set of goals and repeatedly work at them until they are actualised. Focus on becoming by repeatedly doing! As always, we at Out and About Magazine will focus on the issues that keep you inspired, so let’s start doing it!

Features and Highlights After meeting our co-founder and managing director José E Almeida Araujo, a multilingual entrepreneur, business development expert and professional football manager, explore how colour affects your mood in Fashion.

In Beauty, we tackle Multipurpose beauty, exploring what the future of the industry looks like.

In 5 Ways to Set Boundaries while Working Remotely, learn a few tips to striking that balance.

Since we are taking some time to take stock, learn how to balance our masculine and feminine energies, after all, they are both within us.

Turning to Food, check out the 10 Winter Salad Ideas you should Try if you are looking for something different.

Let’s settle the Fitness debate once and for all in Diet vs Exercise: Which Matters More.

Check out the verdict.

Also, find out what the Italians, Malaysians and PepsiCo are all doing in Dubai as the team at Out and About steps out to Expo 2020 Dubai to bring you highlights.

In our Travel section, we are inspired by the 10 Best UAE Views and intrigued by the ‘Milliondollar facials & ultra-luxe skincare being offered at Velaa Private Island. How about adding that to your list of must-try?

In Behind the Brand, Tariq Abu Samra and Jaya Arunsalam of BloomingBox share some lessons learnt as they continue to grow their online gifting platform.

In For the Culture, dive in as a dad explains How a Son spawned an Idea to Help Future Leaders and Be Prepared to not Compare, pieces that are food for thought.

Taking Lessons from Rev Dr Daniel Garcia, humanitarian and founder of Women’s Empowerment Investment Forum, puts things into perspective as he champions the cause for women.

Finally, we bring you a book feature on Ten life-changing books you must read. How many have you read from the full list in our Shelf Life?

Meet multi-talented Lara Tablet in Voices, as she, too, talks about empowering women.

In our Lifestyle section, we tackle Why Every Mother should take a Solo ‘Mumcation, as well as how to recognise and deal with emotional abuse as an adult.

We become what we repeatedly do All it takes is a little determination until it becomes a reality with profound implications for the future. Out and About Magazine, with the team that made this Edition possible, is always here to remind you that you have the strength, patience and passion to become who you were meant to be. Let’s do it!

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SECTION 1

CONTENTS October - November 2021

7 FASHION

• C olour Psychology: How the colours you wear affect your mood

SECTION 2

16 BEAUTY

• Multipurpose Beauty: The future of the industry

SECTION 3

20 OUT AND ABOUT AT EXPO 2020 DUBAI

• M eet H.E. Tarid Sufan, Ambassador of Malaysia to the United Arab Emirates • Malaysia’s Rainforest Canopy Pavilion • PepsiCo brings unique sense of fun to expo • Experience unmatched Hospitality at the Rove Expo 2020 • Championing innovation, sustainability the Italian way

SECTION 8

110 TRAVEL

• 1 0 Best UAE Views • ‘ Million-dollar’ facials and ultra-luxe skincare at Velaa Private Island

SECTION 4

44 BEHIND THE BRAND

• B loomingBox’s Tariq Abu Samra and Jaya Arunasalam, the gift specialists

SECTION 5

57 TAKING LESSONS

SECTION 9

126 FOR THE CULTURE

• H ow a Son Spawned an Idea to Help Future Leaders • B e Prepared to not Compare

• R ev Dr Daniel Garcia, humanitarian and founder of Women’s Empowerment Investment Forum

SECTION 6

62 VOICES

SECTION 10

134 SHELF LIFE

• M ulti-talented Lara Tabet is all about women’s empowerment

• T en life-changing books you Must Read

SECTION 7

72 LIFESTYLE

• Why every mother should take a solo ‘Mumcation’ • Recognising and Dealing with Emotional Abuse as an adult • 5 Ways to set Boundaries while Working Remotely • Balancing our Feminine and Masculine Energies

96 FITNESS

• Diet vs Exercise: What Matters More

104 FOOD

• 5 Winter Salad Ideas you should try

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Out and About Magazine takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material. The photographs in this publication

Out & About Magazine are for illustration purposes, unless otherwise specified.

MEET

CO-FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

JOSÉ

ALMEIDA ARAUJO

Entrepreneur, Sports Pundit, and Business Development Extraordinaire

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He is a multilingual entrepreneur, business development expert and professional football manager with strong personal and professional connections across five continents, developed through his understanding of the ever-changing world of modern business, organisation and relationships.

A former business development director for Simply Abu Dhabi— an invitation-only magazine in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the UK for mega-millionaires—Almeida Araujo was instrumental in its strategic growth, bringing in luxury brands from around the world, such as Dolce and Gabbana, Chanel, Rolls-Royce, Richard Mille, Gulfstream, Oceanco, and many more.

José E Almeida Araujo

is the co-founder and managing director of Out and About Magazine.

He led the company in signing several multimillion-dollar deals and partnerships during his tenure. These include signing media partnership deals with Top Marques Monaco, Cannes Film Festival, Masters of Luxury, Monaco Grand Prix, the Monaco Yacht Show, among others.

Almeida Araujo is also chief communication officer of a Sustainable Energy Transitions (SET) initiative, which has seen him structuring and implementing a plan to roll out four plants in an orderly and timely manner—meeting financial and marketing targets—for German and Romanian markets. He has also worked on a business model for which the SET will improve financial performance while reducing risk elements for other countries, unlike Germany, where renewable energy laws and governments are less secure or stable.

Almeida Araujo is the former manager of professional football player Luis Carlos Almeida da Cunha aka “Nani”, who played for Manchester United, Valencia, Fenerbahçe, SS Lazio, and the international team of Portugal. Nani is also his brother.

Almeida Araujo was a licensed FIFA agent who engaged with mostly top football clubs around the world. Having owned a football club in Portugal, he was also the general director of a club in Spain.

The well-travelled creative thinker was born in Portugal and raised in The Netherlands, where he also owned a large real estate company. Almeida Araujo owns a thriving gold and precious metals trading company in Dubai and is the 2021 recipient of the Sir Anthony Ritossa’s Global Family Office Investment Conference’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Vision, Dedication and Success.

As an avid sports fan, Almeida Araujo’s exuberance is often unmatched, especially when it comes to golf.

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Fashion

Colour Psychology How the colours you wear affect your mood Let’s do a quick test. What colour comes to mind when you see the word summer or sunshine? How about innocence and purity?

If your answers were yellow and white, respectively, you have joined us and millions of others who gave similar responses. But how did we all think of the same colours, and why do these colours invoke such feelings?

Research has long shown that the colour you wear is a reflection of your personality and mood. However, recent studies have revealed that colour can actually determine and even change your mood!

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COLOUR PSYCHOLOGY

Can the colour of a piece of clothing really affect your mood? Well, research has proven that it actually does! In fact, colour can affect your perception, behaviour and even stress levels. The study of this is called colour psychology.

Colours were first examined by the well-known scientist Sir Isaac Newton.

He discovered that when white light is passed through a prism, it separates into all of the visible colours. Newton also found that light could be combined to form other colours. For example, combining yellow and red produces orange.

Further studies have led to researchers exploring the impact of colour on people’s mood and physiological state.

Why do you think most hospitals today are all painted white? This practice began in the 20th century, when physicians realised that it encouraged a sense of peace and calmness in their patients. In 1930, Dr Charles Ireland authored Colour and Cancer, a book promoting the use of concentrated doses of coloured light for the treatment of cancer.

While the use of colour has been explored (though admittedly, not extensively) by the science community, colour psychology has really taken root and is widely employed in the areas of art, design and marketing.

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HOW DOES COLOUR AFFECT OUR MOOD?

Now, we don’t know exactly how it works, but we do know that a number of factors can influence how a person feels about a certain colour. If your child’s favourite toy car is red, they may prefer that particular colour.

The opposite is also true. If the child was harmed by a brown animal, he may have strong negative emotional feelings surrounding that colour.

However, because of shared universal human experiences, it is possible to predict how the majority of people will react to a given colour. Blue is often associated with feelings of calm and peace because it reminds individuals of the sky or water.

Green is associated with nature and freshness because (you guessed it) it reminds people of plants.

Other cultural elements may also allow for colour association. For example, purple is still associated with luxury due, in part, to the fact that purple dye was expensive and scarce in ancient times.

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MEANING OF COLOURS

Let’s take a closer look at some colours and what they mean.

RED

Red is a colour of confidence, excitement and energy.

Want to feel powerful and sexy? Grab that red dress, lipstick, or shirt and strut out in confidence!

YELLOW

Yellow makes you feel happy and optimistic! It is associated with laughter, inspiration and sunshine. Grab a pair of fun yellow glasses if you want to feel light and happy. There is also a flip side to the colour, however. It may seem child-like and over-energising. In fact, in some circumstances, it may infer that you are naïve and weak.

GREEN

Green is the colour associated with nature. It invokes feelings of balance, stability and healing. It symbolises environmental awareness and peace. Although it is the colour of balance, it may have negative effects, too, such as being too bland when incorrectly used.

BLUE

Blue invokes feelings of calmness as well as security and trust. Dark colours are great for corporate designs because it gives a professional and polished feel, but improper use might make you come across as cold and emotionless.

WHITE

The colour of purity and innocence, white often denotes cleanliness and simplicity. Due to its association with pureness, traditionally, baby clothes and bridal gowns are white in some cultures.

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HARMONY WITH LILLY AND RENI Model: Renata Hamikus Makeup: Liv Rideg Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary 14

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Beauty

Multipurpose beauty the future of the industry

WHAT IS BEAUTY?

MULTIPURPOSE

The concept is literally in the name: multipurpose beauty is any beauty product that can be used for more than one function. Even though it can be said that putting one product to several uses has been done before, it was considered a “life hack” in the past. But, as more companies recognised the need of the hour, they started producing items that are safe for multipurpose use.

These products, at times, include several ingredients combined to create a hybrid product that, on its own, is an alternative to several different products. Essentially, these products are very similar to multivitamins, but in this case, it is for our skin.

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WHY IS MULTIPURPOSE BEAUTY THE NEED OF THE HOUR?

It’s because our lives are getting more fast-paced by the day, and people are looking to use their time more productively. Over time, skincare routines have become so elaborate that they can take anywhere between 30 minutes to one hour.

While some people might stick to their holy grail skincare routine that works for them, research suggests more people are now aware of what they put on their skin in terms of ingredients and are more open to finding new products that are clean and multipurpose that can save them some time. The same goes for make-up.

PETROLEUM JELLY: A basic product that

individuals are likely to have in their homes, petroleum jelly heals the skin and acts as a moisturiser. It is good for chapped lips, eyelids, et cetera. It is also used to help retain perfume, as the scent sticks to the petroleum jelly and lasts longer.

You could also add petroleum jelly on top of your make-up to the high point of your face and collar bones, to act as a more natural highlighter. The benefits and possibilities of using petroleum jelly are just countless.

Another perspective is that multipurpose beauty is a step towards a more sustainable way of life.

The idea is to reduce the number of products used and, in turn, reduce the amount of waste.

Most beauty products expire 12 months after opening the package. To some, this might seem like a decent amount of time to use a product, but most people tend to throw away half-used beauty products because they expire in such a short period. This is where multipurpose beauty comes in as a way to use more products in less time while producing less waste. Therefore, more and more people are looking forward to sustainable, easyto-use beauty products that save time and money.

EVOLVING TRENDS

The make-up trends have been evolving rapidly over the past couple of years, courtesy of TikTok, one of the fastest-growing social media platforms.

The no-makeup make-up look has been around for a long time, but the latest Tiktok make-up trend makes the look so much easier and a lot less cakey!

So far this year, multipurpose beauty products have impacted the beauty industry and changed the make-up game forever. And, multipurpose means looks can easily be created with fewer products, making it less stressful for even beginners to navigate all things skincare and make-up. So for anyone starting their journey with beauty products, multipurpose beauty makes it easier to understand styles and preferences without having to do a lot of research and learn about every product and its functions.

Here are our top five multipurpose beauty products that are perfect for achieving that simple, glowy, everyday make-up look that’s trending on TikTok:

TINTED BB CREAM: The days of full coverage

foundation and concealer are coming to an end. Now, more people prefer something dewy, tinted, and that is overall lightweight, so the skin doesn’t feel cakey throughout the day. For this, a tinted BB cream is a perfect alternative to several products.

A BB cream can act as a primer and moisturiser; the tint covers up most of the redness and slight stubborn discolouration or marks and brightens up a tired-looking face. Most BB creams also have SPF (sun protection factor), which is perhaps the most important part of anyone’s skincare routine, just choose one with your desired SPF levels. So tinted BB cream will not only make your skin glow and feel breathable, but it will also protect your skin from sun damage. All these benefits from one product definitely sounds like a dream come true.

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LIP-TO-CHEEK TINT: Besides the fact that a

monochrome shade elevates the look on your face, a lip-to-cheek product makes life so much easier. More and more, companies are coming up with products that can be used on lips, cheeks, and even eyes, because companies are slowly understanding the value of our money and space.

BROWN EYE PENCIL: Hear us

out. A simple brown eye pencil can be used for so much more than just eyeliner. This year has been all about brown wing eyeliner and half lashes. A simple brown eyeliner can be used on your eyes as a liner or to create a sexy, smoky look. There’s more! You can use it for your brows to add that extra volume and create the sexy, stunning bushy brows look. You can also use this to create faux freckles on your face, which will give it a more natural and younger look.

About the author

AFSAH MAQSOOD CLEAR MASCARA: A staple that everyone

should have in their make-up kit, clear mascara immediately brightens up dull eyes by lifting the lashes and adding that little bit of drama. Perfect for an everyday look, it can also be used to brush up the brows and hold them in place for that lifted effect. Clear mascara can be used on any haywire hair that sticks out or even to lay down some stubborn edges.

TRANSLUCENT POWDER: Now, if you’re not into

the whole dewy look, you could always tone it down with a bit of translucent powder. Translucent powder is the perfect way to matte down your face. Use it under your eyes to bake them so that they look bright throughout the day. Use it on your lips to make your shiny lipstick look velvety and last longer. Translucent powder is also perfect to use for blotting throughout the day, just in case you have oily skin or if you sweat a lot. This will keep your make-up in place while ensuring your face doesn’t look cakey.

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Afsah Maqsood is currently an undergraduate student pursuing her degree in Mass Communication.

She is an enthusiastic individual who is passionate about the evergrowing world of media. In her free time, she looks forward to reading novels, watching romantic Korean dramas and participating in various activities that catch her eye.

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL Model: Molly Szentesi Model: Renata Hamikus Makeup: Liv Rideg Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary

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meet

H.E. TARID SUFIAN AMBASSADOR OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

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1. TELL US ABOUT THE AIM OF THE MALAYSIAN PAVILION AT EXPO 2020 DUBAI. Like many other pavilions in Dubai Expo 2020, Malaysia would like to showcase what they’ve achieved over the years, including coming up with net-zero carbon in the pavilion and Malaysia plan of action in the next few years.

our population has been vaccinated. The last information that I received is that 80 per cent are fully vaccinated, and we believe by the end of the month, we will be reaching the endemic level meaning most of the people will be vaccinated, and hopefully, people can go around and carry on with their normal life.

2. WHY VISIT MALAYSIA? The pavilion here represents just a glimpse of what you can have in Malaysia. So once you’ve visited our pavilion, we welcome you anytime.

Of course, not now, because we are still under the pandemic, we are going through the process of opening up our country to visitors. Until then, those visiting the pavilion here can get an overview of what Malaysia can offer regarding economic activities and trading with us.

4. IF YOU WERE NOT AN EMBASSY EMPLOYEE, WOULD MALAYSIA BE AN ATTRACTIVE TOURISM DESTINATION? Yeah, of course. If you are into trying cuisines, I think Malaysia offers food that caters to different taste buds. You will tantalise your taste with food from the Middle East and the Far East because we are people that represent many civilisations.

The population in Malaysia is made up of different multi-ethnic backgrounds we have the Chinese and the Indian, of course, the Malay are the majority of the people in the country.

We have been a trading nation for many years, even before independence. We look forward to welcoming anybody whether for business, education, tourism, and so on and so forth to know us better. I think that’s what Expo 2020 is all about providing the platform for people to meet up, not just in person, but in terms of exchanging information about what we can do and how we can come together, complementing each other in achieving what the whole will try to get, which is protecting the environment while ensuring that our future generation will be under the plan that we have set up for them.

3. HOW IS MALAYSIA PROGRESSING WITH ITS COVID-19 RECOVERY? We have done a lot in terms of COVID-19. We have gone through the process. We have taken the necessary procedures when it comes to COVID-19, especially now. We cannot take it lightly. But at the same time, we tried to move forward.

We know that COVID-19 is something that we have to live with and is one of the things that we are doing now, including ensuring that people who are on the street observe the SOPs when it comes to COVID-19.

At the same time, we are making sure that

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By being multi-ethnic, multi-religious, we really represent the whole world. We are very inclusive in terms of our governance and participation in the economic development and advancement for the people in education, such as the promotion of talents.

And, of course, to be part of the whole world, that’s precisely why we participate in this Dubai Expo 2020.

5.

DESCRIBE MALAYSIA IN THREE WORDS. I know that it’s a challenge to describe Malaysia in three words, but what would describe us best is our slogan when it comes to tourism is, “Malaysia, truly Asia”.

6. DESCRIBE THE UAE I’ve been here for the last few years. I think the UAE provides a place for people from all corners of the world to earn a living, live a decent life, and at the same time, achieve your dream.

While observing certain preconditions when you are in a foreign land, there are always the do’s and don’ts, as long as you observe what has been set up for you to live here. The country offers a lot of opportunities for people from everywhere.

Malaysia’s Rainforest Canopy Pavilion Malaysia’s self-built pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai depicts a rainforest canopy—offering visitors an immersive journey of that country’s rainforest— enabled by 3D projection mapping.

The 1,234.56 square metres net-zero carbon installation presents Malaysia’s sustainable vision through several other creative, interactive technologies in seven permanent exhibits.

The pavilion’s theme is “Energising Sustainability”, which is intended to capture the nation’s commitment and approaches to sustainable development. It will be the home to permanent displays, showcases, pocket talks, summits and forums, cultural performances, demonstrations, during the expo.

Malaysia’s representation at Expo 2020 Dubai will be participated by 21 Ministries of the Malaysian government, 70 government agencies, and five state governments. About 300 companies will participate in the weekly trade and business programmes which encompasses six thematic industry clusters, namely, Science, Technology, Innovation & Environment, Trade and 4th Industrial Revolution, Health, Education, Tourism & Digital Economy, Entrepreneurship and Energy, Agriculture, Agricommodity & Water, and Sustainability.

Twenty-six weekly business and trade programmes have been curated to maximise the opportunities for our local homegrown companies. The breadth and depth of our programmes reflect the robustness of Malaysia’s business ecosystem.

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PepsiCo brings unique sense of fun to Expo 2020 Dubai

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Promising to bring its unique sense of fun to its three pavilions—The Plus, Bolt and Drop—at Expo 2020 Dubai, PepsiCo intends to inspire visitors while also offering insight into the changes it’s making to create more sustainable products and experiences for consumers globally.

THE PLUS Located at the Opportunity District, Pepsi and Lay’s have come together at The Plus pavilion, building a world of fun at which visitors can be immersed in the sights, sounds, colours, and tastes of the brands by getting to know flavour profiles from around the globe. At The Plus, visitors can also learn about initiatives like Lay’s Replay, which showcases how empty chip bags are given a second life and transformed into sustainable football pitches.

THE DROP Located at the Sustainability District, The Drop pavilion is designed to look like a giant droplet and constructed from 41,000 recyclable aluminium cans. It aims to educate visitors on water sustainability in food and agriculture and inspire individual conservation efforts.

THE BOLT Located at the Mobility District, The Bolt pavilion celebrates anyone who lives an active lifestyle, as it is centred around Gatorade and fuelling athletic performance through personalisation. Zig-zagging through the iconic Gatorade lightning bolt, the experience explores the brand’s history, showcases the science and innovation in every bottle, the athletes that use it, and how Gatorade is inspiring consumers to live healthier lifestyles.

Visitors, be on the lookout because PepsiCo’s unique sense of fun also includes world-class entertainment and appearances.

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located In Rangali Island, Maldives. To book a reservation at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, please call +960 668 0629 or visit conradmaldives.com

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Experience Unmatched Hospitality at the Rove

Expo 2020

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Rove Hotels is invites rovers (guests) to grab the best seats in the house at the Expo 2020 Dubai’s only on-site hotel: Rove Expo 2020.

Located adjacent to Al Wasl Plaza, Rove Expo 2020 will offer rovers the perfect gateway to regroup, recharge and rethink the future with its funky interiors, sustainable amenities, and fussfree hospitality. Rove Expo 2020 features 312 king, twin and accessible Rover (guest) Rooms and 19 Rover suites.

It also boasts several dining and social outlets, including The Daily, a grab & go Rove Café and The Bar, along with a rooftop swimming pool and sundeck overlooking Al Wasl Plaza. Rovers can also expect 100 per cent sustainable inroom amenities, late check-out times, self-service locker rooms, and much more.

Additionally, Rove Expo 2020 was built with strict environmental guidelines and the latest technologies in energy efficiency and food waste reduction solutions in mind.

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Championing innovation, sustainability

the Italian way Italy’s Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai promotes multilateral forums and dialogues to analyse humankind’s

pressing

challenges,

with

a

programme of international initiatives and events dedicated to the country’s innate capability of connecting peoples and intelligences through beauty, know-how and creativity.

A champion of innovation, sustainability, and training, Italy will address issues ranging from the climate, Space, urban development, promoting intercultural dialogue, to the challenges of innovation and digitalisation in the healthcare sector, in agriculture and in the blue economy.

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Company BLOOMINGBOX bloomingbox.com bloomingboxme

TARIQ ABU SAMRA & JAYA ARUNASALAM

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bloomingbox

JAYA: I moved here in 2006. I was in the hospitality sector in the past and moved from London to Dubai. So I’ve been here for more than 15 years.

3. WHY DID YOU START THE BUSINESS? In 2017, we realised that there was a gap in the gifting industry. We realised that most websites offer a bit of a complicated experience, and when you find someone offering a premium line of products, it’s a bit too expensive. So we decided to come up with this concept that offers affordable luxury for our customers.

2. TELL US ABOUT THE BLOOMINGBOX CONCEPT. The concept is an online gifting platform that provides affordable luxury to buyers. We have simplified the gifting experience for customers.

4. WHO SHOPS AT BLOOMINGBOX? Our customers are primarily from all around the UAE—both citizens and residents. If I could describe our customer, it would be anyone who has an eye for quality and values affordability.

1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELVES AND WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE UAE. TARIQ: I was born and raised in the UAE. Both my parents came when they were young.

5. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR PRODUCTS. We currently have a variety of five different categories of products—flowers, chocolate, cakes, treats, and plants. Everything we do at BloomingBox has a purpose, so all our products are made with the highest form of packaging.

We take pride in our packaging, whether it’s the special paper we use, whether it’s the fact that they are water-resistant, or the quality of the products that go inside. We want to ensure that BloomingBox, as a brand and as a product, is something that people fancy to give each other.

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6. WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? JAYA: We look at it as our dedication, our passion, and having a great partner, cofounder is key to success.

TARIQ: I totally agree. I wouldn’t call it a secret as much as I think the secret is in applying what we do, because a lot of people know what’s right, but to apply it is another thing. I think persistence is definitely one thing that we both value. We’re patient when we need to be patient, yet we’re fast when we have to be fast.

We love innovation. And, as I told you earlier, we love offering products that have a purpose.

So we don’t just go ahead and decide to offer anything, but instead, it has to have a purpose; it needs to serve a need.

7. TELL US A SURPRISING FACT ABOUT THE MARKET IN WHICH YOU WORK. Tariq: There are several surprises you can encounter in such a business. When we first launched the business, we had a specific target audience in mind. But, it turned out that we got a completely opposite audience attracted to the business. That was one of the surprises we encountered as partners in this business.

Another surprise is that people might not really know how lengthy it is to source flowers in general? Yes, it seems easy, but to ensure that the flowers are always fresh, and then the right quality in the right form to be delivered to the customer in an amazing form, it’s not an easy job. We’re very particular about our designs and our products.

JAYA: It took us a while to understand the whole flower life cycle… so it is a journey. We are not experts, but we are learning.

TARIQ: I think another thing to add is that you might not know this, but we both have no experience in flowers or gifting. But I think as Jaya said, with time we’ve managed to learn and understand. So today, we are in a position to say that we do understand the industry and the challenges that come with it.

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8. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR? TARIQ: Okay, we’ve got two types of misconceptions. There’s a misconception about our business and there’s a misconception about entrepreneurship. I think the media is glorifying entrepreneurship… [as if] you can wake up tomorrow and decide to be an entrepreneur—one year’s time, be your own boss—and that life’s going to be all rainbows.

However, that’s not the case.

It’s a very lonely road. And, as they say, an entrepreneur is someone who jumps off the cliff and then builds the parachute on the way. So there’s a lot of challenges that come with being an entrepreneur… it’s not built for everyone. I think there are people who can substantially grow in a career field in the corporate industry, just like an entrepreneur can’t within that industry.

And to add to the misconception about our business, I think we’ve been perceived as a flower business, but the truth is, we’re here to revolutionise the entire gifting experience. So we’re more about gifts than just flowers.

JAYA: You really need the appetite for entrepreneurship. If you’re not cut out for it, because no one will be pushing you to start early or finish on time, it’s all in your mind.

TARIQ: You are your own boss. So there’s no worse critic than you to yourself.

9. SO WOULD YOU SAY THERE ARE CERTAIN TRAITS THAT AN ENTREPRENEUR WOULD HAVE? Jaya: I think you’d need to master all the traits because when we started we had to do everything from scratch, we were not dependent. Well, we were dependent on third parties or other business partners who would help us in certain ways along the way.

10. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN BUSINESS? JAYA: Fail as soon as possible to learn and not down the road after you build your business.

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By failing, we learn, and when we are doing so, the lessons carry forward. So hard work and learning your business are crucial.

You gotta do it yourself, and not be dependent on anyone else besides the business partner or your co-founders that you have; those are the critical points that I want to give as advice.

TARIQ: Today we’re talking to a different generation. In the past maybe five or six years ago, you’d be talking to someone in the age of 24, 25, maybe 27, 28. But today, you’re talking to someone who’s 16 years old.

We need to go back a bit to the basics. So I would always say, first of all, know your why. Why are you launching your business? Why do you want to be an entrepreneur? If you have the right reasons, then it makes sense. If it’s just because you want to own your time, I don’t think that’s enough. It can definitely be one of the reasons, but it cannot be the only reason.

Another thing is, don’t fall into what I like to call market benchmarks. These are things where the market dictates what’s right and what’s wrong.

So it kind of creates your path forward. But, instead, go after what you believe is right, and follow your gut feeling in certain places.

I was told that at a certain age I shouldn’t be earning this amount, just because it’s known in the market not to earn that amount but the reality is there are no rules. There are YouTubers today making tens of millions of dollars and at ages 16, 17, 18, and 19. And so the market has changed, entrepreneurship has changed.

Today you’ll find more people interested in entrepreneurship than in a regular career, as opposed to 20 years ago, it was the complete opposite. And so the last thing I’d like to say is knowing the difference between schooling and learning.

In my humble opinion, I believe schools are not built for entrepreneurs. And so it’s natural if you’ve had the entrepreneurship spirit since you were a kid to not have liked school nor studying at school. But there’s a misconception about

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learning at school because learning is something that you can acquire from all different resources.

It goes a long way with your entrepreneurship journey, so learn the difference between school and learning, because learning is definitely gonna push you forward.

11. HOW DO YOU ENVISAGE YOUR INDUSTRY CHANGING IN THE FUTURE? TARIQ: For BloomingBox, we want to do what every other giant has done for every industry that they were part of. So take Apple, for instance, they’ve revolutionised the phone experience, they’ve revolutionised the entire tech experience. So BloomingBox is here to revolutionise the gifting experience.

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WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE CURRENT PACE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN YOUR INDUSTRY? Jaya: There are two parts here: one is the customer-facing—which would be our website, the portals that you use, the by-products—and the other technology is the backend, which will deliver those items and whatever that supply chain, the process that it goes through, the whole journey from someone buying to us delivering So technology is crucial. For example, getting a customer’s address, we normally used to call someone and get the address but we have simplified it because those were automated by sending a WhatsApp message where they just had a pin. And that automatically goes into the delivery team. So everything has a process.

That’s where technology plays a part in our field, so enhancing the customer experience is crucial.

How do you simplify from someone coming into our website, buying something is a snap of a finger, checking out… and 95 per cent of products are sold as gifts. So most users who buy, don’t experience it themselves. They have to rely on friends or loved ones who they bought it for; we cherish their joy and their passion.

TARIQ: So you’re technically pleasing two people, not one.

JAYA: And that kind of puts us in a very tight spot, but we try to use it as much as possible.

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TARIQ: To add to that, if you look at 10 years ago, we were putting e-commerce back on, and the whole experience was on the desktop, but 89 per cent of our customers are buying via mobile. And so the mobile industry has been changing significantly over the years.

One thing that we do is because again, it’s e-commerce, so our website is our client-facing platform, and so we put a lot of research into the consumer experience. For example, currently, we’ve been studying the consumer behaviour on our website itself in the past two years.

We’ve realised that as the phones got bigger, people’s behaviour has changed.

So let’s take an example of the first iPhone, you can reach the top of the iPhone screen with one hand and one thumb. But today, with the iPhone Pro, and even the Pro Max, it needs two hands to reach the top part, which means you have to take everything to the bottom half of the phone. So we monitor those experiences, we leverage on consumer frustrations and then we adjust the experience to suit those customers. We take it to that level where we actually tend to monitor a lot of our customers’ experiences and we have the tools to do so.

And, we also allow our customers to do their own fair share of feedback because we might like our experience, but they might not. So I think there’s a lot of technology involved in the user experience.

13. YOUR WEBSITE GOES DOWN. WHAT DO YOU DO? JAYA: We have a protocol for doing things manually, and we can.

TARIQ: It took some time, but we realised that our customers are persistent, they want to own a BloomingBox or they want to buy a BloomingBox. So we’ve had to be creative, no matter where we need to operate from, so we can deliver.

14. ANY MAJOR LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNT ALONG YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY? TARIQ: For me, it’s always been an entrepreneurship journey, ever since I was a kid. And so I did take a career path for a short span of my life, and that then informed my entrepreneurship journey. So that’s when I decided that, ‘Okay, this is for sure not suitable for me; I do want

to go down the route of entrepreneurship.’ But like I said earlier, for me, the partnership was crucial.

It’s like a marriage. So you guys are sharing a similar vision, yet, it needs to be very diverse in terms of skill set because you want to be complementing each other and not just adding the same value to the business.

And that’s what, luckily, Jaya and I have.

Another key learning is that people underestimate finance in the business. If you manage to master or at least grasp a decent amount of knowledge on how to run your finances in the company, with its cash flow position, cash management and balance sheets, then that goes a long way as well, because that’s a solid back-up to have.

You can have millions of dollars spent on marketing but the strongest form of marketing is word of mouth.

So if you’re offering the right product and service, the right experience, then that’s your ultimate marketing medium method.

15. YOU SAID YOU KNEW THAT THE CAREER PATH, THE NINE-TO-FIVE, WASN’T FOR YOU. HOW DID YOU KNOW THAT? TARIQ: Growing up, I’ve always valued freedom. On one side of the equation, you’re just a number that is meant to earn X, based on the income you generate for the business, whereas as an entrepreneur, there are no limitations.

Another key thing for me is because I enjoy learning and growing, which is really me evolving. When you work in a career that limits you to a certain title, that’s it, then you’re limited to what you can learn because you don’t have access to everything in the company. And so I felt like I was being restricted from learning what I wanted to learn in the first place.

And I think the last thing is, we do it here with passion and with love. We enjoy coming to the office; we want to engage with the people in the office. So I think it was an easy call for me.

16. HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH? JAYA: I think it’s all about trying to understand yourself and your capabilities. I mean, half the time

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my wife keeps me sane. But I think it’s important to take time out from time to time, to take a step back and assess, relook at the situation, because sometimes if your mind is too clouded and you don’t have the clarity, we’ll never be able to give 100 per cent. And, in our case, there are 40-odd people that are part of our team that depend on us.

Personally, it’s a learning journey. It’s not easier said than done, but I try to be more conscious about that.

My timeout is more like a step back, not operationally being involved.

I try not to think about work, but might just go play online… just changing the routine, trying to do as much exercise as possible.

TARIQ: Again, the time has changed. I think things are more visible. Fifteen, 20 years ago, people would be ashamed to often say, ‘I face anxiety or face this.’ Today, we’re in a better position to share and express ourselves.

Yet, studies have shown that the mind and body are connected.

And so I ensure that my physical activity is fulfilled at least two times a week—whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a swim or doing a bit of horse riding. That’s my, I would say, timeout. I also try to balance

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a decent diet, not going to say a hardcore diet, because I enjoy food, and that gives me pleasure.

I also love reading articles that are more on the mental side, along with documentaries, and I really enjoy following certain people I look up to, that I learnt a lot from.

I know it’s easier said than done, but the reality is that everything happens—the good times and the bad times. There’s this thing when I sit with people, especially the 16, 17 and 18-year-old generation—they’re concerned about the future, about what if and what’s coming—and so the moment you realise that it ends, it just brings peace to your heart that okay, I’m having a rough time, I’m going through some challenges, and it’s not going to last. That by itself kind of shortens the span of the challenging phase you’re going through.

17. WHAT’S THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY? JAYA: Mine will be, “Never fear to fail. Success is not final.”

TARIQ: I love quotes. There’s plenty of quotes I can think of, but there’s one that always stands out for me, which is, “People will hate you, rate you, shake you, and break you. How strong you stand is what makes you.”

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For more information and reservations, visit Jumeirah Zabeel Saray or call +971 4 453 0000.

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TAKING LESSONS

REV DR DANIEL GARCIA

Company WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT INVESTMENT FORUM

weifworld.com Rev.dr.humanitarian

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1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHAT BRINGS YOU TO DUBAI? I would say I am a humanitarian—my whole purpose in life is to serve others.

Investment Forum in the world. What that means is that we’re here to bring awareness to the world that women are just as sophisticated, if not more knowledgeable, as men are.

I find the greatest enjoyment of ministering to people, telling people that we’re all the same, regardless of what position you hold, what you’re doing in your line of work, we’re all the same people. We’re all here to serve each other and help each other.

So on February 19th, 20th, and 21st, in Al Habtoor City, we are going to be doing a conference, an awards gala, honouring 30 of the most prominent women from around the world. On the third day, we’re going to be doing a huge networking event for everybody who wants to come and partake and be a part of women’s empowerment.

We had 54 coffee cafe franchises in the Middle East and Africa, we were the most expensive coffee cafe franchise in the Middle East and African history. And in 2008, we sold it to an Italian group. So that’s what I came to Dubai for. I ended up falling in love with the culture, the people.

There are so many people here that I love. And that was one of the big reasons for me staying.

2. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR HUMANITARIAN WORK? My parents were in the Peace Corps for many years and, throughout our lives, we were very involved in the church. So it’s only natural that no matter what I did in my line of work, whether it was in finance or business, there was always the humanitarian side there.

It starts with the way you treat people. There’s nothing better than being able to extend a warm smile to everyone that can change the course of their day. So, humanitarian to me now is much bigger than it was when I first started. With women’s empowerment as our main focus, we’re reaching many countries, many people and women around the world.

3. TELL US ABOUT THE WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT INVESTMENT FORUM AND YOUR UPCOMING EVENT. We are now the largest women’s empowerment organisation in the world. The California Women’s Conference that is run by my good friend, CEO Michelle Patterson, partnered with me just a few weeks ago.

We’re

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Empowerment

4. HOW DO PEOPLE FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE EVENT, IF THEY WANT TO GET INVOLVED? They can go to our website at weifworld.com and wifeworld.com. And there are more articles that will be very informative, and we’re going to start doing press releases around the world and giving more information.

5. IN TERMS OF “EMPOWERMENT”, WHAT DO YOU THINK WOMEN NEED THE MOST? As a man, I have seen my mother as a very powerful woman. We were six boys and one girl, and my father, if you ask him, he’ll say that the smartest person in the family is his wife—my mother. So that taught me a lot. Here’s a man with no ego.

For me, as a man, I tell my friends, for you to be successful and live an extra 20 or 30 years, how we can empower our women is through support.

Put your ego aside, put the macho aside, and just form cooperation in your marriage, or in your relationship with your partner. And remember, marriage is a business as well.

You have to share the responsibilities; don’t take all the pressure and all the responsibility and think that you can do it all yourself, because you can’t.

Even in the Word of God, it says that God created Eve as a helpmeet, which is translated to lifesaver.

So if I’m in a relationship, you better believe I’m going to reach out to my lifesaver for support.

As men, our job is to support our women. That’s how we can empower them by leading, following or getting out of the way. And if they’re leading, get out of the way or support them.

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6. TELL US ABOUT YOUR INVOLVEMENT WITH THE SHETRADES INITIATIVE. SheTrades will be presenting at the World Expo here in Dubai, in February, and they asked me to be a part of it because of our women’s empowerment and our views and what our purpose is. SheTrades Initiative is to bring women entrepreneurs, business traders together to do more business together around the world.

And, our women’s empowerment investment forum is for many different women, regardless of what they’re doing. But the women that are the investors for the firm, it’s their responsibility to reach out to all the little girls and upcoming businesswomen around the world and mentor them and talk to them and share with them. So this SheTrades is right in line with what we want to do with women’s empowerment. So it’s a great collaboration.

I will be speaking there; there are also several upcoming events not till November. They’ve asked us to put together a panel of our Women’s Empowerment Investment Forum.

7. TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE AMAZING WOMEN YOU’RE GOING TO BE HONOURING AT THE WOMEN’S INVESTMENT FORUM? We are going to be honouring dignitaries, world leaders, princesses. We’re also honouring women who are not so famous and not so well known because there’s a third-grade teacher somewhere in the world that has changed many people’s lives, and she doesn’t even know she’s being honoured that day.

So, for us, it was so important in my lifetime, if I’m able to give back in the biggest way, it’s to reach out to those women who think they’ve been forgotten, and we haven’t forgotten about them. On the night, they will be honoured amongst the famous and the well known. But to me, they’re all as important, because they changed my life. Teachers are very important because they changed my life growing up.

8.

EXPO 2020, HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED? Over the last two years, I’m the only person in

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the Middle East who has a monthly investment forum. I brought over 60 companies from around the world, from the US to Dubai to the Middle East and Africa. We would do a monthly investment forum where they’re looking for sponsorship funding connections in the Middle East and Africa, but the hub was Dubai.

So during that entire time, I’m always promoting Dubai. And then, I started promoting through some of the interviews and videos that I’ve done. I started promoting the Expo because I said to the world that if you have to be anywhere in the world, do it during these six months. Over 35 million people are coming this year, and everybody’s going to be looking at China which spent $35 million on their gazebo at the Expo.

It’s only a natural fit that our Women’s Empowerment Investment Forum would participate in it as we continue to develop and grow our awareness, we constantly are including the World Expo event.

9. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? That it’s going to be okay. I lost all my 20s because I was so involved in trying to be something and someone to give back, and I would look back and I would just hug myself and say, ‘It’s gonna be okay. Don’t worry, enjoy your life. Enjoy the steps you’re taking. God has the plan for you. It’s going to come together.’

10. TELL US ABOUT A PROFOUND LIFE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED ALONG YOUR JOURNEY. I’m an ex-professional boxer and in the boxing ring, there’s no one there to help you but God. You’re constantly moving forward and you’re constantly swinging; the only time you’re not moving forward or throwing punches is when you’re knocked out. And then you don’t know what the difference is, but that’s how life is.

Every day you’re constantly moving forward, and you’re constantly swinging. And I don’t believe in good days so much or bad days, I believe that as long as you’re able to take a step forward and swing, you’re still in the fight. So, in the journey

of life, for me, the lesson is that it’s being in the boxing ring, because there’s no one to cry to or complain to. Just keep moving forward.

11. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? Serving others is what I think about when I get dressed every morning, when I’m trying to accomplish something or when I walk out the door every day. I don’t feel like I’m representing myself but like I’m representing all the Latino boys around the world who don’t have hopes and dreams that will see me somehow or hear me speak somewhere and say, ‘He looks like me. And if he did it, I can do it.’ And so that’s my responsibility to the world, as I do it for everyone else.

12. WHO INSPIRES YOU WITH AWE AND WHY? The people I’ve been fortunate to meet and do business with are the people who end up being my mentors, even though sometimes I’m their business advisor, but I feel like they’re mentoring me, and I’m learning much more from them than they are from me.

13. HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH? Every morning I wake up I turn on the Word of God. There are different preachers and ministers around the world who I listen to, from TD Jakes to Joel Olsteen, to Joseph Prince and Billy Graham. So what I do is I wake up, I get on my knees, I say my prayer, and then I turn on the ministry, and it’s heard around the house.

While I’m brushing my teeth, getting ready, whatever I’m doing, I start my day on a positive note because I believe that whatever comes in you is going to come out of you. So I have to listen, I’m forced to listen to many things that I don’t want to hear throughout the day in meetings and things that I’m doing, but I can control what my breakfast is going to be.

So I do that, I have my coffee, and I go to the gym. Then I listen to normal music throughout my 30-minute workout. But when I go to the elliptical to finish my work in 30 minutes, I finish it with more preaching.

So for me, it’s the Word of God that keeps me in line and focused on being spiritually fed, because you realise that you don’t think about yourself, you just want to think about how you can help others.

14. SO IF YOU HAD A MESSAGE FOR A GROUP OF YOUNG LATINO BOYS, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Humility, perseverance, and God. Humility, I think, is the biggest goal of everything. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to say I don’t know.

Don’t be afraid to accept who you are in the business journey. Say, ‘You know what? I’m here today, but with God’s help and your help, I can be something better tomorrow.’ Nine out of 10 times someone is going to say, ‘I will help you because you’re humble’.

If there’s one message that I would give anyone, it is to just always remain humble. And be a servant and be ready to serve others, because you’re going to find your true passion and purpose in life when you begin to serve others.

15. What’s that one quote you live by?

‘I prefer to die on my feet than live on my knees.’ What that means is that I have a burden to carry, which is to be true to myself and the people that I represent.

Today it’s the Women’s Empowerment Investment Forum and I had to take those bullets standing up because I represent all the women that have made me a better human being. So I can’t bow down and live on my knees and accept anything that comes my way, I’m forced to take the bullet standing up, and that’s what it means.

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Voices

IS ALL ABOUT WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT luxurywithlara.com luxurywithlara lara-tabet-48ab6499 Lara-Tabet

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1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. I’m originally Lebanese born but was raised in Dubai. I majored in hotel management in Switzerland for a few years, came back to Dubai to join the family business—which I did for a very, very long time—until I was headhunted by the first English language TV station that was set up here in the region, known as MTV. There, I ended up having seven shows, which I produced and presented.

I conducted more than 7,000 interviews with celebrities from all around the world— Hollywood, Bollywood, our cinema—and then got into the luxury brand business where I became a brand ambassador for some of the top luxury brands from different parts of Europe.

I was then asked to join the admission council where I’m the official spokesperson; we organise our fashion week in Dubai every year, during March and October.

I’m also a philanthropist. I do a little bit of charity work with different organisations around the world; plus I’m a member of the UNHCR [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees].

2. TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW PLATFORM AND HOW AND WHY YOU STARTED IT? So, being part of the Arab Fashion Council and being involved with so many fashion designers, locally and globally, I decided to set up Arab Fashion Preneur, a platform for both start-ups and well-established businesses that are associated with the fashion industry. We want to help them achieve their targets and goals, and take their businesses to the next level.

We do that through regional and international workshops, conferences, seminars, the hosting of networking events, and introducing them to the right partners, investors and clients to help them achieve their targets and goals.

There’s a lack in the market when it comes to connecting designers with certain retailers and outlets where they see themselves being, and that’s where I come in and help them do that.

3. TELL US A LITTLE BIT MORE ABOUT WHO YOU WOULD LIKE TO COME TO YOUR

ENTREPRENEUR PLATFORM? So Arab Fashion Preneur is not only for fashion designers and people related to the fashion industry, it’s for anybody and everybody out there who is an entrepreneur. So it could be a banker or somebody in wealth management, or somebody who’s an engineer, a fashion designer and makeup artist and photographer, it’s not restricted to the fashion industry.

Yes, it does have the title Arab Fashion Preneur that people automatically assume it’s the fashion industry, but I think there is a fashion statement to be made in every industry and sector out there.

So it’s not restricted to the fashion industry alone.

4. WHERE DO WE FIND YOU? I’m available on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. People can reach out to me. I’m getting a lot of inquiries via LinkedIn, it seems to be a very popular platform where people find you to collaborate, work, and achieve their goals.

5. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NEW ENTREPRENEUR OR SOMEONE WHO’S THINKING OF COMING INTO ENTREPRENEURSHIP? So you have to start by loving what you do; you’ve got to be passionate about it. If you’re going to leave a job that’s paying you well, it’s got to be something better to take that risk and leave your security. I call it security because it’s an income that you’re getting regularly.

So, to leave that, you’ve got to have a passion for what you do, love what you do; you’ve got to live it, breathe it, give it your 300 per cent commitment.

And I think that’s the key to being a successful entrepreneur. We know what hard work is. The sky’s the limit; perseverance, determination, and never giving up, never surrendering.

A lot of people say, ‘Keep your dream on hold, and two years from now when you put in a bit more finances or when you’re a little bit more stable, to take it to the next level’. Don’t listen to them! If your heart’s in it, go out there and fulfil your dreams. Don’t surrender; achieve your targets and goals. That’s my advice to all the entrepreneurs out there. But, of course, start with passion because, without passion, nothing is achievable.

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6. HOW DO WE GET BETTER AT PROVIDING MEDIA SERVICES FOR THE NEW MARKET? So the market is extremely dynamic, very fast-moving. Content has to be fresh at all times. You cannot publish something that happened two months ago today. And I see a lot of the media companies doing so.

It’s got to be fresh content. It’s got to be up to date, and you’re allowing people to interact with the latest trends, technologies, with whatever is going on out there in the world.

So it’s got to be fresh, reliable, trustworthy content. That is the most important thing, not delivering the message where it’s not based on reality or facts that are happening.

7. WHAT ARE YOU DOING NOW IN THE MEDIA INDUSTRY? So basically, the expo is around the corner, it’s a few days away. I’m going to be heavily involved in that; we’re going to be covering as much content as we can, for a lot of TV stations out there that were not purchased on their channel, since expo is going to be, I think, the greatest show to take place in history, which is a show we’ve been waiting for for the last two years. Unfortunately, it had to be postponed due to COVID-19, but now it’s back. And there’s going to be quite a bit to cover.

So we have people coming in from all around the world—presidents, prime ministers, rulers of different countries here in the region—that are hiring, and especially for expo transactions during those six months, so there is quite a bit of content to cover.

I think that’s where I’m going to be for the next six months, media-wise.

I’m also working on the UNHCR. So we’re planning a very big event as well here in the region. We specialise in assisting refugees; helping students all around the world by giving them a better break at life by providing scholarships to get an education to go to university, which, of course, gives

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them a great start to their lives.

8. TELL US WHY DUBAI, WHY SHOULD PEOPLE COME TO DUBAI? WHY SHOULD YOU INVEST IN DUBAI? There are a million and one reasons why people should come to Dubai, it is not only the most beautiful city in the world, it is the safest city in the world. I think Dubai is the only city that I know where you have over 220 nationalities residing and peace and harmony in one place. It’s the best place to bring up your kids. So you never have to worry, you can leave your mobile phone in the restaurant, come back three hours later, and you’ll still find it there. I don’t think that happens anywhere in the world.

The vision of His Highness jetting from Russia, he’s been able to create and transform in the region this beautiful city that used to be one of the most beautiful deserts in the world, to the city that hosts the tallest tower in the world, the largest shopping mall with over 1,200 retail outlets, the leading airlines in the world—whether it’s Emirates Airlines, Etihad or Abu Dhabi, et cetera. The list is never-ending.

For me, Dubai is home. As you know, I was brought up here so I see my future here. I see my children’s future and their children’s future here. This is the most beautiful place in the world. Yeah, thanks to the leaders, they’ve created this beautiful paradise.

It is the land of opportunities, especially for women. I mean, the equality between men and women here in the region is just unbelievable. You’ve got women in some of the most senior positions.

It’s the land of opportunities, not only for women but for everyone.

9. IF YOU HAD A MESSAGE TO MEN, HOW DO YOU GET BETTER AT RECOGNISING THE NEED TO LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH? This message is for men and women.

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Mental health is extremely important and should be addressed and looked into if one does suffer from it. I think the key to improving one’s mental health is through exercise, eating the right foods, making sure that you have a life coach or somebody that is a buddy, somebody that I can just pick up the phone and say, ‘Hey, I’m not feeling well.

Give me some advice on this, that, or I’m stuck somewhere, can you help me overcome that.’

So having a buddy is having somebody that you confide in; you must speak openly.

Also, having a proper regime, proper diet, exercising—exercise is extremely important because that’s how the blood circulates… but also for our mental health.

Don’t forget the amount of fear that was injected into people, families, children, men, and women during this pandemic through the media. The fear they were projecting globally, and that is a pandemic that destroyed a lot of people. So I think to overcome that and to get back to where we were before COVID-19, is just focusing on yourself, investing in yourself, whether that’s through cuisine—the right food—exercise, talking to people. If you have a problem, talk about it; share it with your friends, share it with your family.

There’s no shame in not feeling well, mentally. You shouldn’t feel shame, you shouldn’t feel that you’re less than anyone out there. On the contrary, talking about it is expressive and helps you, and it helps you overcome it.

10. IS THERE A QUOTE THAT YOU LIVE BY, AND WHY? I have many quotes that I live by. My favourite one is, ‘Never judge anyone for walking a mile in my shoes.’ Another very, very important one is that: ‘Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other women,’ because I am all about women empowerment.

And, ‘Treat others as you would want to be treated’. So for me, those are my favourite quotes.

11. I KNOW YOU’RE INVOLVED WITH THE WOMEN ENTREPRENEURIAL SUMMIT THAT’S COMING UP NEXT YEAR. TELL US ABOUT THAT. We have quite a few female entrepreneur summits. I’m involved with one, which is part of a platform in Spain called Willow Thrive. So Willow Thrive is all about women empowerment. I also work very closely with another platform called the Legacy Circle in the UK, which is all about women empowerment.

And I plan on working with a few minorities from Abu Dhabi, where we’re planning to set up a platform about women empowerment. To keep myself busy during COVID, because a lot of things are kept on hold, I was going out of my way to interview beautiful women that are very successful female entrepreneurs here in the region and airing their interviews on YouTube, just to promote female entrepreneurship during the winter. So, yeah, I’m all about women empowerment.

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Boutique No.8, Aswaaq Center, Al Badaa, Al Wasl Road, Dubai.

Boutique 13, Building 8, Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. www.mokha1450.com

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Lifestyle

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WHY

EVERY MOTHER SHOULD TAKE A SOLO

‘MUMCATION’ Have you ever heard of a ‘mumcation’?

I remember hearing about the concept a few years ago on the Internet. It was described as a trip or getaway for mothers without their partners or children. It sounded like a glorified girl’s trip for women who have children.

However, earlier this year, I started to toy with the idea of taking a solo ‘mumcation’. I had been feeling tired, and by tired, what I really mean is extremely exhausted.

As a mother and wife, I could not remember the last time I was alone for an extended period of time. Don’t get me wrong, I love being a mother, but should I really only be living for my children? That is a hard question to answer because we have children so that we can be with them. I am sure

many mothers can relate.

If you are one of those mothers who accepts all invitations or finds the least excuse to leave your children, then you might not be able to relate. On the other hand, if, like me, you have not been alone in a long time, then the group ‘mumcation’ might not be what you need. What you are more than likely to benefit the greatest from is a solo ‘mumcation’.

When I started to think of the last time I was alone, I realised that it was approximately two years ago, before the pandemic, when I used to take a few business trips locally and overseas.

As much as I love my husband and children, I needed a break.

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HOW TO KNOW WHEN YOU NEED A SOLO ‘MUMCATION’ You know you need a solo ‘mumcation’ when your greatest desire is for a few days of peace and quiet. You have stopped feeling the joy you used to in carrying out your daily chores and taking care of your family. You may really need a ‘mumcation’ if the very sound of your children irritates you.

Let’s face it, being a mother is a very hard job, and like any other demanding job, you need a break from time to time to rest and recharge your batteries.

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so that view would have to be good enough to keep me captivated.

I also decided that during my solo ‘mumcation’, I would not be using my phone for any social media or watching television. My only source of entertainment would be the book I was reading. The idea was to unplug and really rest my mind and allow my thoughts to be free. I did not want to hear any noise, nor did I want the intrusion of the outside world that social media inevitably brings.

MY SOLO ‘MUMCATION’ EXPERIENCE A few weeks ago, I had finally had enough. I decided it was time for me to take a solo ‘mumcation’. Before going, I set some ground rules. The hotel had to be luxurious because I deserve it. It also had to be close enough to home.

Okay, my plan was set. I informed my husband and children that I would be taking a little break. I told them where I was going and for how long. They were very supportive as I knew they would be. I am fortunate to have a husband and two boys who adore me, so anything that makes me happy is fine by them.

Luckily for me, I live in Abu Dhabi, which has an abundance of luxurious hotels from which to choose.

I booked myself into the St Regis Hotel Abu Dhabi for two nights. My husband and sons dropped me off at the hotel.

It was also important for me to book a room with an amazing view as I was not planning to do any activities, and

The room was amazing, and I had a spectacular view of the Abu Dhabi corniche from the 38th floor of the

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hotel. The room I booked came with butler service. My butler’s name was Hina, and he made my stay very comfortable.

I must admit that entering the room and realising I was alone felt a little strange, but that strangeness quickly faded as I dived into the bed and just enjoyed the silence.

For the next two nights, I could eat what I wanted and do what I wanted without having to think of anyone else’s needs. It was amazing. I ordered room service, took long luxurious baths, read, and slept to my heart’s content.

I allowed my thoughts to drift in and out while I laid in the silence. The only times I spoke over the two days was to order something, say thank you to someone who served me, or give my husband and boys a quick call to

check on them. The latter I kept to a minimum.

LESSONS LEARNT Two days might not seem like a long time, but it did me a world of good.

I felt refreshed. It also felt like I gave myself a gift.

As a mother, it is easy to neglect your needs. Many of us are riddled with guilt if we do anything for ourselves to the exclusion of our families. I am here to tell you that I will be booking solo ‘mumcations’ at least twice a year.

You cannot pour from an empty cup, and sometimes you just need to rest.

Often, our families are causing us to neglect ourselves; it is the stories that we tell ourselves. Tell yourself that you deserve a break because the truth is, you certainly do.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR LEISA GRACE WILSON is an

educator, entrepreneur and blogger.

She currently lives in Abu Dhabi with her seven-year-old twin boys and husband.

Leisa is passionate about personal development, entrepreneurship, finances and the world of education.

You can connect with Leisa by visiting her blog www.leisagrace.com or connect with her on Linkedin https:// www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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RECOGNISING AND DEALING WITH

EMOTIONAL ABUSE AS AN ADULT

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In a toxic and emotionally abusive relationship, be it an intimate relationship or one with colleagues, peers, or relatives, there are two parties involved: the abuser and the abused.

RECOGNISING EMOTIONAL ABUSE If there is a consistent pattern of abusive words and manipulation in the relationship, it is emotionally abusive. It ruins the confidence of the abused and intensifies their self-doubt.

The former tries to control, manipulate, and dominate the latter by embarrassing, shaming, blaming, and using other manipulative and controlling techniques to ruin the other person’s self-esteem.

In this kind of relationship, one becomes dominant and powerful while the other is left powerless, hopeless, controlled, and abused.

As time goes by, emotional abuse leads to poor mental health.

The problem with this type of abuse is that it is hard to recognise. Therefore, the cyclic pattern keeps repeating and slowly destroys a person. Over time, they become unsure of their perceptions and realities.

Let’s define it and enumerate ways to spot and deal with it to better understand emotional abuse.

They feel trapped, wounded and isolated and want to leave the toxic relationship but are afraid to do so.

WHAT IS EMOTIONAL ABUSE? It’s a type of abuse that aims at controlling another person through techniques such as embarrassing, blaming, shaming, and criticising.

These all lead to anxiety, depression, a life of loneliness and the chipping away of self-esteem. But this shouldn’t be the case. So, if ever you’re in a position of being trapped in an abusive relationship, learn how to recognise and find ways to deal with it.

Again, emotional abuse is not easy to detect, and victims have trouble figuring out whether they’re in an abusive relationship or not. So, how can you tell?

One of the first things to spot a toxic and emotionally abusive relationship is a lingering feeling of confusion, frustration, depression, and anxiety. All these leave you feeling worthless because you’re constantly doubting yourself—even your decision-making skills.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR An abusive partner or person is: 1. Demanding all your time; 2.

Always dissatisfied—never contented—with you;

3. Always critical of you for not living up to their standards or completing tasks according to how they want it; 4. Expecting you to agree with their opinion all the time (you’re not entitled to have or share your own opinion); 5.

Making unrealistic expectations and demands of you;

6.

Undermining and distorting your perception of reality;

7.

Not accepting of your feelings but trying to define how you should feel instead;

8.

Not accepting of any of your opinions as valid;

9.

Accusing you of being selfish, materialistic, and needy; and

10. Telling you that your perceptions or ideas are wrong and can’t be trusted.

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Emotional abusers also start arguments and often make contradictory or confusing statements just for the sake of arguing. They tend to always make chaos because they also experience drastic and sudden mood changes. These people also behave unpredictably, and this makes the other person confused.

Sometimes, they also use emotional blackmail, which includes making the other person feel guilty and humiliating you on any occasion. Emotional abusers also exaggerate or point out the flaws of the abused to avoid taking responsibility for their actions.

In a toxic relationship like this, an abusive person also acts entitled or superior.

They tend to blame the other person for their poor choices and doubt everything they say. If you’re in this relationship, you’ll notice a pattern of constant blaming, too.

The abuser tends to always prove you wrong, treating you as inferior.

You might also notice how they’re being condescending or talking down to you most of the time. Emotional abusers can’t accept a mistake or be blamed. They’re so controlling that they’d also monitor your digital activities.

Emotionally abusive people also try to isolate you from the world – your loved ones, friends, and other people. They’re acting jealous and accusing you of cheating. For example, they’d even hide your car keys to prevent you from going out with friends.

DEALING WITH EMOTIONAL ABUSE Know and recognise that emotional abuse isn’t right and you shouldn’t tolerate it. Everyone deserves kindness and respect. Always remember that. Don’t ignore signs or minimise abusive behaviour, bullying, or verbal abuse. To deal with it:

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1. Establish personal boundaries. Don’t respond to abuse. Learn how to disengage and, as much as possible, stay away from the abuser.

2. Know your rights. Don’t let the abusive person convince you otherwise. For example, you have the right to leave the relationship if it’s already emotionally and mentally draining.

3. Don’t take responsibility for the abuse. It’s not your fault; it’s theirs as well as their responsibility.

They need professional help.

4. Accept that you cannot change the abusive person. It is also not your responsibility to make them understand or realise they’re hurting you.

5. Let go! Disconnect and cut your ties with the abuser. Never look back or try to repair anything.

You can also seek help from a therapist that can teach you ways to cope and heal. Talk to close friends and family members, and don’t be afraid to tell them how you feel.

[You can also look for positive ways of interacting with the abusive person. You might be able to see the positive side of the abuser and learn how to interact positively with them, typically in office settings.]

Being courageous and stopping emotional abuse It’s not easy to deal with or stop an abuser. And, if you’re a victim, you might be feeling like you’re nothing without them. However, you can stand up and stop the never-ending cycle of abuse.

1.

Try to regain control of the situation.

2.

Know your rights.

3. Don’t tolerate emotionally abusive behaviour.

4. Stand up for yourself and don’t let anyone put you down.

5. Develop your confidence. Speak up with a loud, confident, and clear voice.

6. Bravely state what you want. Be assertive enough to speak up when you’re feeling abused.

7. Set your boundaries and respect them.

These will tell people how you want to be treated as well as what is and what isn’t acceptable for you.

Again, know your rights. You can disagree; you have your opinion, and you deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. Know when to let go and protect your mental and emotional health and well-being at all times.

And remember, anything that costs you your peace is very expensive. Let go and live.

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5

WAYS TO SET BOUNDARIES WHILE WORKING REMOTELY

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The novel coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live and work. And, while embracing what is seemingly the new normal, many of us have been working remotely indefinitely, or have employed some form of a hybrid approach in the workplace.

According to a 2020 survey by BlueJeans by Verizon, remote workers spend more than three hours extra at work daily, which puts our well-being and work-life balance to the test.

Working remotely isn’t for everyone; while some find it easy to focus and have a system that works, others struggle to find balance.

In this article, I will be sharing five tips to help you set firmer boundaries so that you can regain your productivity and work-life balance.

1 MAKE A CONSCIOUS DECISION TO CREATE BOUNDARIES AND HAVE MORE BALANCE We often think that the work-life balance problem is due to external factors and that our workload, co-workers or even clients don’t allow us to have balance.

It is not the many activities that overwhelm us but our decision to not set boundaries.

In an ideal scenario, you should set limits and fit those essential activities within the available time. However, it is vital to first understand your commitment level: “Am I committed to having more worklife balance while working remotely?”

We perceive every responsibility as urgent and essential. We end up living the busy calendar culture, struggling to achieve results, when, in fact, according to the Pareto Principle, only a few things lead us to our success.

Of course, work happens, and there will always be emergencies and projects that don’t allow us to always stick to this commitment, but we should at least 90 per cent of the time.

2 SET DIGITAL BOUNDARIES On average, according to Duke University research, we receive about 80 phone notifications a day, in addition to the other distractions in our environment. This means that we get distracted by our digital notifications at least five times every hour.

It takes us 23 minutes to get focused once we get distracted, which means almost every time we get into an optimal focused brain state, we lose our focus.

Getting to that optimal focused brain state—called “state of flow” — which helps us be more efficient and productive, appears to be impossible, so instead, we spend more hours completing work.

A great way to eliminate digital distractions from your life is to switch off all unnecessary app notifications using your phone’s settings, keeping only the important ones. You can even switch your devices to flight mode for the more important tasks and keep them out of reach until you have completed them.

There is no blueprint, but you will achieve more results even if you take small steps to protect and increase that focused state.

Photo by Rahul Chakraborty on Unsplash

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Photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash

3 CREATE A DEDICATED WORKSPACE According to a survey from Buffer, one of the biggest challenges that remote workers face is the ability to unplug after work hours.

One of the main reasons disconnecting is a challenge is that we combine our workspaces with our leisure spaces. We set our workspaces in the bedroom, at the dining table or on the living room sofa.

Our brains like habits and predictable patterns, so whenever we spend time in that space again, it will trigger a need

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to focus on work and prevent us from disconnecting.

If your well-being is essential, you should aim to have a dedicated workspace that is distinct from your rest and leisure areas.

Invest in an office space. Make a conscious decision to work and keep all your devices in that area. This approach might feel a bit forced, initially, as we want to revert to our old patterns, however, with practice and time, we will adjust and think of work only when in that space.

4 BE MINDFUL OF YOUR ENERGY LEVELS Alarmingly, 92 per cent of employees have experienced some form of burnout since working remotely. In the absence of triggers like driving to work, which marks our start and end of the day, or your co-workers taking a lunch break, we end up powering through the day and evening with no breaks.

While, in the short term, working with no breaks can be done to accommodate tight deadlines, very soon, your energy will be depleted. You will experience burnout and will have to spend more time recovering.

To prevent burnout, we need to maintain a balanced energy level. We need to be proactive and create a clear work routine, even blocking our calendars for breaks

Photo by Link Hoang on Unsplash

or energy check-in reminders in advance.

Research shows that we go from focused to fatigue in 90 minutes, which means we should take a short break to recharge and re-energise ourselves, even if it’s a couple of minutes every 90 minutes.

We should also pause often and check in with ourselves: “What are my energy levels?

How do my mind and body feel?

Do I need anything to refocus on work?”

The same approach applies to annual leaves. We should not underestimate the benefits of taking days off and resting. So check in on how you feel and, depending on your energy levels, take a break even if it’s a few days of local leave doing things that you enjoy to re-energise.

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5 COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR TEAM AND LOVED ONES To successfully set boundaries, it is essential that you communicate continuously and set expectations at work and home.

Don’t be afraid to switch off your notifications when you are unavailable or ask for extended deadlines, if required; with the proper explanation, your co-workers will understand.

You must discuss what level of distraction and interruption you can have at home with your loved ones. Also, you can come up with different signals for everyone to remember, such

as keeping the door closed or hanging various signs at the door when you can’t be interrupted.

Setting healthy boundaries while working remotely is crucial for our well-being, productivity, performance at work, career growth, and relationships with our loved ones. It is important to block distractions and be fully present, both at work and at home. At first, this might not be simple, but starting with a small step helps.

Though this article provides tips to set boundaries while working remotely, some can also be useful for individuals working in the office.

About the author

Laura Biclea Corporate Sales Leader & Mentor | Helping organisations upskill and create high performing teams Corporate sales leader and mentor Laura Biclea’s mission is to help organisations and their commercial teams achieve results to create a positive impact in the world. Passionate about personal development, she uses her philosophy that “each one of us has a unique superpower to drive those around towards their full potential”.

Laura, who has more than 15 years of experience and is an MBA graduate from Manchester Business School, is also the co-author of Women who Inspire and contributes to various publications on selfdevelopment topics. www.instagram.com/laurabiclea https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurabiclea www.twitter.com/laurabiclea 86

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BALANCING OUR FEMININE AND MASCULINE ENERGIES

“Masculine and feminine aspects exist in all beings.”

—David Daida.

Energy means life. It is a base for our robustness, vigour, and stamina. We derive our energy from our mind, body, and spirit, but also from our emotions.

Each of us has feminine and masculine energy within us, helping us to balance our inner spark for our outer ardour. This duality of opposing forces within us, and contrasting intensity and impact, can become the vital source of our personal energy if interconnected, balanced, and well perceived. Such inner equilibrium will make our body healthy, mind sharp, psyche uplifted, and emotions stable.

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YIN AND YANG INFLUENCE The black and white Yin Yang circle has become a well-known symbol for representing divine feminine and masculine energies.

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Yang is the sunrise, and Yin is the sunset.

Yang is the day, and Yin is the night.

The white colour represents Yang, a male principle in nature. It reflects the sun, representing a positive and active nature, connected with the south direction and the north of the river flow.

They are on opposite sides of a spectrum, yet they cannot exist without each other.

There is a constant process of transformation into each other, as each contains a seed of the other. Yang carries 75 per cent masculine energy and 25 per cent feminine energy, represented by the black dot within the white form. Yin represents the opposite.

The black shade indicates a feminine, passive principle in nature called Yin. Its energy correlates with the moon, the north direction, and the south of the river stream.

That means that nothing is only Yin or Yang. Masculine energy includes a feminine component, just as much as feminine energy has masculine energy within.

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FEMININE ENERGY Feminine energy centres in the body and connects with our emotions. It focuses on the present and connects with the heart.

It represents the second sacral chakra responsible for our creativity, sensitivity, intimacy, and self-expression. It also represents the fourth heart chakra, a centre for joy, compassion, empathy, forgiveness, and, most importantly, love for oneself and others. Also, it influences the sixth, thirdeye chakra connected to visualisation, imagination, and wisdom.

WATER AND EARTH ELEMENTS Feminine energy is circular and receptive. It creates the space and then enjoys receiving what the masculine energy is trying to provide. It doesn’t struggle with accepting gifts and compliments. Feminine energy is soft and relaxing. It magnetises and attracts what it wants instead of fighting to get it.

Feminine energy is not about thinking but about feeling. It thrives on creative expression, nurturing new ideas, not logic or reason, but perception and intuition are the sensors. It welcomes emotions and gut feelings in the assessment of any situation. It is fascinating with its unpredictability.

MASCULINE ENERGY Masculine energy is future-oriented, cognitive, and mind-focused energy. It is about linear thinking, plotting, strategising, planning, and achieving plans. It represents a direct approach, clarity, control, and strong willpower. It correlates with providing, giving, and fighting for what one wants and desires. It is about primal hunting qualities and sensing threats to protect oneself, loved ones, and belongings. Having a life purpose and taking destiny into one’s hands is connected with masculine strength.

Masculine energy represents the first root chakra situated at the base of our spine and connected with the basic instinct of survival, setting up a foundation for building one’s life. It is about our safety and security.

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With its connection to the prominent solar plexus, the third chakra of success represents being on the go, having an entrepreneurial spirit, doing things, keeping promises, and sticking to plans. Masculine energy also connects with the fifth chakra of communication.

It provides support to living authentically and communicating thoughts, ideas, and intentions with precision.

HEALING THE FEMININE WITHIN If you think that you are not good enough and keep pressuring yourself to fight for what you want, constantly prove your capability to do everything, and control every step you and others take, you unconsciously shift into masculine energy. This is especially true for business owners, entrepreneurs, and any competitive professions.

It has fire and air elements.

Set your vision, strategise planning, and delegate with your masculine energy. Then to activate your feminine energy, release your control. Share your strength and empower your team, assigning mandates to do things once you distribute tasks. The more commanding authority you let go of, the more success you can create in your personal and professional life and relationships.

Masculine energy is less about feelings and more about logical, constructive, and analytical reasoning. It is about being mindful, awake, and alert. Achievement, success, providing, and taking care of things are the main targets of masculine energy.

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Take time to choose the right people around you to have a sense of security. Then, trust yourself with your choices. Being constantly guarded and in need of providing safety for yourself converts your feminine energy into a masculine protectiveness.

Yet, stay tuned to your intuition, speaking up if you feel something is off.

Move your awareness from your head to your body, focusing on your feet to ground yourself—activating a connection with the Earth. Then, centre your focus on your waist area to awaken your lively juices of creativity and self-expression. Feel with your heart and through your senses.

Connect with other women to absorb feminine energy, either during leisurely girl time or through group and social activities such as dancing, singing, acting classes, or other creative arts and crafts projects, such as painting, sculpting, or writing.

Take time to enjoy the food you eat, the clothes you wear. Notice the nature around you, relishing the scent of flowers, air after the rain, or the aroma of your coffee.

Practise joyful and graceful receiving as that transforms energy into a passive mode, activating feminine qualities. It allows you to be in the present moment, feeling and enjoying it within.

Most importantly, smile, relax and stay present in a moment. Trust the process. Occasionally, even daydream.

HEALING THE MASCULINE WITHIN The left-brain activities, such as calculating, rationalising, or analysing belong to the masculine energy. If we lack discipline, planning, logical thinking, and fact-checking, it means our masculine energy is not strong enough. As we need these vibrations active to pursue our career, development, and even our passions, we need to embrace the masculine within us.

Keep your brain stimulated with riddles, puzzles, crosswords, and games, challenging your brain. Plan and strategise from your career moves to managing simple home tasks. Read, analyse, and think a lot to improve your cognitive skills and your memory.

Pursue hobbies requiring your focus. Try golf,

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horseback riding, or sailing. Participate in group activities, generating discussions, comparing ideas, strategising, and memorising.

Take care of your finances. Keep your mind open for new investment opportunities and businesses. Take full responsibility for your mistakes and set boundaries for yourself and others around you. Respect yourself and others. Have a mature approach to your personal and professional life.

Define your needs and build your courage with your assertiveness. Stop being passive when you are called to action. Build your self-confidence by starting to be active.

Hit the gym for weight-lifting and exercises such as crunches, bridges, and planks, to name a few, helping to build a strong core and activate the third chakra of success, goals, and ambitions.

BALANCING FEMININE AND MASCULINE ENERGIES Women can embody both masculine and feminine energy. Likewise, men can harness both energies to their advantage. Most successful people learnt how to direct their energies, using both feminine and masculine qualities. We need both modalities to be healthy and balanced for us to succeed.

And, we need to use feminine and masculine energies to our advantage, depending on the circumstances.

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Masculine vibration is about creating and providing energy, whereas the feminine enjoys feeling and receiving. Slow down and rest more if you need to activate the feminine within you. And, pick up on energising activities to feel more driven and awaken your masculine energy.

Drink plenty of water and fruit juices to keep yourself well-moisturised from within for a feminine touch. Turn towards more protein-packed and spicy food to bring your masculine fire to the surface.

Whether we operate from our feminine or masculine energy in any given moment, remaining calm, composed, and respectful adds a human touch to our demeanour.

“The union of feminine and masculine energies within the individual is the basis of all creation.”

—Shakti Gawain

About the author

ANNA NIEMIRA Anna is a corporate consulting professional experienced in international capital markets, finance, and innovative technologies. Being an effective communicator, negotiator, and strategic management ambassador focused on growth and development, she served as a Director of Business Development at various organisations and has been called upon to serve as a judge and mentor at various financial and entrepreneurial competitions.

She studied Blockchain technology at York University, Lassonde School of Engineering, Strategic Business Management and Negotiations at Harvard University, and received her accreditations from the Canadian Securities Institute. Fascinated with a holistic approach to life and business, and wanting to understand the human mind and human behaviour, Anna studied foundations of psychology at Yale University.

She is a media personality known for her stage presence at various speaking engagements, popular talks, and interviews with progressive, innovative technology entrepreneurs, industry influencers, and idea trendsetters.

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Take a Tour Around

Time Out Market Dubai

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Souk Al Bahar - Downtown Dubai - Dubai www.timeoutmarket.com/dubai/

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Fitness

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DIET VS EXERCISE WHAT MATTERS MORE

With all of us living busy lives, we often think there is not enough time for exercise and healthy food preparation. And, more often than not, we feel that we’re left without a choice but to chow down on burgers, fries, or anything that we can set our eyes on the fridge.

But, things don’t have to be that way. We do have a choice, and that is to be healthy. Now, the question of which to prioritise: diet or exercise?

For the longest time, it’s been a hot debate among people trying to lose weight and fitness enthusiasts. So, if you’re new to a weight-loss journey, you, too, might find it confusing. This article will reveal the answer.

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EXERCISE Engaging in physical activity can improve your overall health and physical appearance. It also aids in building and preserving muscle mass.

example, it takes minutes to overeat but about 30 minutes to burn off 140 calories. Now, that’s a lot of time for a cookie.

If you’re looking to lose weight, it also speeds up your metabolic rate and helps burn more calories, even after exercise. That’s good news, isn’t it?

Physical activities can help you lose weight effectively because it burns fat while also boosting your metabolism to continue burning calories even after exercise.

Cycling, walking, jogging, and other aerobic exercises can also help burn calories. Even with low to moderate-intensity workouts for at least 30 minutes daily, they can promote calorie deficit.

But you’re probably thinking, “Do I have to spend hours exercising to lose weight and achieve my health goals?” No, you don’t. Tenminute moderate-intensity sessions twice a day are enough. It will also help to introduce a variety to your workouts to stay motivated and avoid boredom. More importantly, don’t sit for long hours. See to it that you get up and move now and then.

Did you know that exercise also helps with hunger management? Yes, because it can regulate your hunger hormones. By exercising regularly, you can prevent excess snacking, overeating, and hunger strikes late at night. It can also give you more diet flexibility, making your weight loss journey more satisfying and food yummier.

Exercise can help you lose and keep the weight off. It’s something that diet alone can’t do. For

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Unlike diet alone, exercise can make weight loss more sustainable. It also offers other health benefits, such as decreased risk for cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It also reduces stress and regulates blood pressure, aside from helping with brain health, strength, body image, improved sleep, and self-esteem.

DIET Along with exercise, diet is important for weight management because it is easier to modify and, with healthy food choices, makes it better to burn more calories through workouts. Perhaps you’ve heard of the 80/20 rule—stating that weight loss results from 80 per cent diet and 20 per cent exercise.

Replace poor food choices with nutritious foods. In short, clean out your unhealthy food choices. Pass on the packaged poisons like those in the jar or box, as more often than not, they’re high in calories while lacking nutrition. Focus on eating more whole foods and vegetables, too.

Also, it may be easier to modify your diet than burn more calories through exercise, which can be time-consuming and require more movement.

Plus, those who aren’t fans of counting calories can focus on eating whole foods and avoiding processed foods.

They should eat food with higher amounts of healthy fats, fibre and protein.

What you eat makes a huge difference in health and weight management. By focusing on a healthy diet, you’ll receive as many benefits as you would from exercise.

A healthy diet also reduces your risk for chronic disease as well as the effects of ageing. It improves skin and brain health, too.

Essentially, what you eat matters when it comes to sustainable weight loss management.

COMBINING DIET AND EXERCISE Both are important for overall health and long-term weight loss, so choose healthy foods and include daily activities in your life.

However, you don’t need to make sudden, huge changes, or you’ll find it easier to go back to your old habits. For success, start slowly, with both changes to your diet and adding exercise to your daily routine.

And remember, no exercise can help you lose weight if you have a bad diet. So focus on starting with a healthy diet and slowly incorporate exercises daily. It doesn’t have to be long hours at the gym, though. The key here is consistency. Exercising 30 minutes every day can make a huge difference.

So, which should you prioritise? By now, you probably know the answer. You can never have the best exercise programme with a bad diet. Also, you can’t achieve sustainable results from a good diet without exercise.

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TAKEAWAY Balance both diet and exercise if you’re looking for meaningful, long-term and sustainable weight loss management.

The two sustain optimal health. So if you want to lose weight, modify your diet and make healthy food choices, and to sustain the results, combine a healthy diet with exercise.

After all, they can both reduce your risk for chronic disease, including diabetes, cancer, and hypertension, while also helping you improve mental health and build muscle, among other benefits.

Want a sustainable weight loss management plan? Start with healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes that include both proper diet and regular exercise today!

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Kingston 21 Jamaican Restaurant

kingston21.ae kingston21.ad

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Tower - Al Raha Blvd - Al Raha Beach Abu Dhabi www.kingston21.ae 02 546 8500

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5 food

WINTER SALAD IDEAS YOU SHOULD TRY

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Winters are perfect for soups, casseroles, and other hot dishes that warm the soul.

However, you can also fit hearty salads in your weekly menu to give your family all the antioxidants and dietary fibres they need for the festive season.

You will feel more energetic, vibrant, and full of life as you head into winter quarters with healthy and delicious salads on your dining table. If you don’t know where to start, we share five winter salad ideas you should try.

1

HOLIDAY SALAD WITH PUMPKIN SEEDS

This dish is as colourful and bright as your choice Yuletide buntings, without the guilt we all associate with wintertime bingeing, of course.

Rich in magnesium, pumpkin seeds are the perfect ingredient for this winter salad, improving bone and heart health, lowering diabetes risk, and strengthening immunity.

Here is an inspiration video for this recipe.

SALAD INGREDIENTS • Five ounces of various baby greens • Two ounces of goat cheese • One chopped large pear • 1/3 cup of green pumpkin seeds or pepitas • 1/3 cup of cranberries (dried) SALAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS • Three tablespoons apple cider vinegar • Three tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra-virgin) • Two teaspoons honey • One crushed garlic clove • One teaspoon mustard (Dijon) • Pepper and salt

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DIRECTIONS • Combine the ingredients for the salad dressing in a mason jar and shake thoroughly.

• Toast the raw green pumpkin seeds (pepitas) in a skillet over medium heat.

• Turn off the heat when you see the pepitas’ edges turning golden brown.

Set aside.

• Combine the salad ingredients in a serving bowl, ensuring to tear the goat cheese into tiny bits.

• Drizzle the salad dressing, get two large wooden spoons, and toss gently.

QUINOA WITH ROASTED VEGGIES

A balanced meal is all you need to prepare you for the winter months. With quinoa forming the base, this winter salad is worth having on chilly evenings because of its vibrant colours, rich textures, and nutrient-filled ingredients.

Luminberry shows you how to make this winter salad in this fascinating video.

SALAD INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

One pound diced roasted sweet potatoes Two cups water One cup quinoa One bunch kale ¾ cup toasted pecans 2/3 cup cranberries (dried) ½ sliced red onion

•

¼ cup fresh parsley, minced

SALAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS • • • • •

Three tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra-virgin) Two tablespoons apple cider vinegar ¾ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon pepper

DIRECTIONS

• Cook the quinoa in water for 15 minutes; let cool for another 15 minutes and fluff before resting.

• Combine the salad dressing ingredients in a bowl or jar.

• Place the kale in a large bowl, drizzle the salad dressing, and massage the vegetable to tenderise.

• Add the other ingredients, including the cooked quinoa, and toss.

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3

CRUNCHY CELERY WINTER SALAD

The green celery, apples, red pomegranate and carrot make this salad a worthy dish this winter.

This salad is perfect for building immunity as you head into cold quarters because it is rich in dietary fibres, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It is also an exciting way to get your kids to love veggies with the salad’s unique crunch and sweet-sour notes.

Making this winter salad is a cinch if you follow this video by InTheKitchenWithElisa.

SALAD INGREDIENTS • • • • •

Three celery stems, cut into 1/2-inch length One deseeded and cubed sweet green apple One grated carrot 1/3 iceberg lettuce ½ diced cucumber

•

A handful of fresh pomegranate

SALAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS • • • • •

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Two tablespoons olive oil One tablespoon fresh lemon juice One teaspoon salt One teaspoon raw honey A pinch of black pepper

WINTER GREENS AND CITRUS SALAD

Who does not like the tangy and sweet taste of oranges and pomegranates?

When you add kale, apples, pepitas, cabbage, and apples, you get a winter salad that wows.

Moreover, we guarantee this dish will have your family salivating for more.

Here is a video from Goodful on executing this dish for your family this winter.

SALAD INGREDIENTS • Three cups thinly sliced Tuscan kale • Three supremed oranges • One cup thinly sliced red cabbage • One cup thinly sliced Brussels sprouts • One deseeded and thinly sliced Fuji apple • ¼ cup fresh pomegranate • ¼ cup toasted pepitas SALAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •

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DIRECTIONS • Place the dressing ingredients in a bowl or a mason jar and mix thoroughly.

• Combine the other ingredients in a salad bowl; add the dressing, and toss.

Two tablespoons olive oil Two tablespoons raw honey Two tablespoons tahini One tablespoon Dijon mustard One garlic clove ¼ cup chopped parsley ¼ cup apple cider vinegar ¼ cup chopped scallions ¼ cup fresh orange juice Pinch of salt

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DIRECTIONS

• Put the salad dressing ingredients into a blender and blitz to a smooth consistency before adding the olive oil.

• Sprinkle salt into the kale and massage gently to reduce bitterness and tenderise the greens.

• Place the rest of the ingredients into a salad bowl, drizzle the dressing and mix gently.

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CRUNCHY CARROT WINTER SALAD

AND

BEET

Packing two superfoods into a fantastic winter salad is sure to get everyone all revved up for the holidays.

With the season’s flavours and colours beautifully combined, this winter salad will become a mainstay at the dinner table all year round.

Chef Matt DeMille was kind enough to share a video of this fantastic recipe.

SALAD INGREDIENTS

• One carrot, sliced into thin, long strips and soaked in water to soften • One beet, halved, thinly sliced, and washed • One cup finely chopped kale • ½ thinly sliced fennel • ½ pear, sliced into thin strips •

½ pomegranate

SALAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

Three tablespoons maple syrup Two tablespoons Dijon mustard One tablespoon grapeseed oil ¼ cup sherry vinegar Juice from one lemon Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS

• Combine and mix well the salad dressing ingredients in a mason jar or small bowl.

• Place the salad ingredients on a plate or bowl.

•

Drizzle the dressing and toss.

GIVE THESE RECIPES A TRY, NOW Just because it is winter does not mean you should skip the healthy salad from your meals.

Rich in dietary fibre and antioxidants, winter salads have as much a place on the holiday table like any other season-worthy dish.

You will be glad to face spring with a healthier body, a sounder mind, and an invigorated soul with the five winter salad ideas worth trying.

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SARAY SPA, AL WATHBA,

A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA, ABU DHABI

AL WATHBA SOUTH Abu Dhabi, 56620, United Arab Emirates Saray Spa +971 2 204 4553

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TRAVEL

10

BEST

UAE

VIEWS Creating a list of the 10 best UAE views is a challenge because there are many magical and enthralling gems in this Arabian desert jewel of a nation.

Any of UAE’s attractions deserve a spot on any Top 10 list, each providing visitors with a unique perspective of the region’s rich history, culture, and forward-looking ethos.

Nevertheless, here are the UAE’s 10 best views no traveller should miss.

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1. BURJ KHALIFA Featured in MI: Ghost Protocol, Independence Day: Resurgence, and other Hollywood films, the Burj Khalifa is one of the most famous architectural wonders in the modern world.

Besides being a favourite of the film industry, Burj Khalifa is also a haven for adventurers because it has the world’s highest observation deck.

Heading to the observation deck takes you on the planet’s longest elevator ride. At the deck, you will have a sweeping view of the Dubai landscape and beyond.

Unsurprisingly, the Burj Khalifa is on the list of any traveller.

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2. JEBEL JAIS The UAE is not all pomp and glamour with its world-class cities.

This tiny nation is also home to one of the planet’s most spectacular mountain landscapes—the Jebel Jais.

It is the perfect spot for appreciating the rugged beauty of the Hajar Mountains as they ripple down towards the coast.

The Jebel Jais Flight is a two-kilometre zipline that sends thrill-seekers flying several hundred metres from the valley floor.

Climbers and hikers will also find the trails invigorating, providing a rare glimpse of the UAE environs.

3. SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE First-time travellers to Abu Dhabi cannot get enough of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Visitors always leave with a huge smile on their faces and a better appreciation of Islamic religion, culture, and art after a few hours exploring the halls of this incredibly beautiful mosque.

Rare crystals and 24-carat gold adorn the chandeliers illuminating the mammoth hand-knotted prayer carpet.

Surrounding the mosque is a marble courtyard with its semiprecious stone mosaic floor, while the building features glass and gold that work harmoniously to bring elegance to the place.

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4. DESERT LANDSCAPES The UAE desert landscape can be as fascinating as any world-class oceanscape.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al-Khaimah’s desert interiors are replete with adventures you will never get anywhere else on the planet.

Riding a camel, a dune buggy, or a 4WD, exploring the desert landscape offers a different perspective.

The terrain may be all brownish and reddish with sparse greens, but it remains a spectacle to behold.

Bask in the rich culture of the Bedouins or partake in old traditions while relaxing at luxury desert accommodations.

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5. AL FAHIDI QUARTER Known to locals as Batsakia, the Al Fahidi Quarter is a must-see when travelling the UAE. This heritage site is the direct polar opposite of glitzy Dubai, offering visitors a rare perspective into the old world.

The community reflects Dubai’s rich history, complete with Arabian architecture featuring traditional wind towers that never needed air conditioning units to cool their occupants.

Art galleries and museums line the alleyways, inviting anyone to dig deeper into the emirate’s colourful past.

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6. SHARJAH ART MUSEUM Visiting the Sharjah Art Museum is like travelling through time with its vast art collection.

Arab and Middle Eastern artists showcase their masterpieces in this majestic building.

There is art from the 18th-century to the second millennia, speaking of the culture and history of this rich land.

Time your visit to coincide with the museum’s exhibitions to get more of what this place has to offer.

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7. MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION Islamic scholars and students flock to the halls of this historic building in the city of Sharjah.

It is UAE’s only museum that focuses solely on Islamic history, highlighting Islam’s spread throughout Asia, Africa, and the rest of the world.

Religious documents, rare manuscripts, and other Islamic artefacts complement the art collection on display.

The Museum of Islamic Civilization is not only a repository of Islamic history, but its architecture is also a sight to behold.

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8. DUBAI CREEK You might ask how a creek can offer the best UAE view?

Like Venetian canals or the Singapore River, travelling up and down the Dubai Creek offers visitors a different perspective.

Instead of using gondolas or modern boats, tourists get to ride in an ancient dhow to give them an authentic historical feel.

The cityscape view from the river is more serene, giving visitors a chance to sit back and look at the UAE’s crown jewel without the crowd.

It is the perfect activity for lovers who want to relish the view in a semi-private setting with a blastfrom-the-past kind of ambiance.

9. JUMEIRAH BEACH AND BURJ AL ARAB The world’s only 8-star luxury hotel (although some experts give it a 10-star rating) dominates the blue skyline of this famous beach in Dubai.

At the right angle for a landscape photo, Burj Al Arab’s majestic silhouette creates a sailboat-like scene with the rolling waves in the foreground.

Entering the Burj Al Arab is by reservation only. If you fail to book a seat in any of its world-class restaurants, you can always spend the whole day in splendour as you marvel at the beauty and magnificence of the hotel and the beach.

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10. EMIRATES PALACE If you think 5-star hotels are the pinnacle of the hospitality industry, think again.

The Emirates Palace is one of the world’s elite 7-star hotels, offering suites with expensive marbles and glittering gold.

The 114 domes that define the hotel’s architectural design feature 24-carat gold coating.

Even if you fail to book a room at the hotel, marvelling at its grandness is enough to make your UAE stay worthwhile.

The well-manicured garden is equally spectacular, perfect for framing an Instagram post with the glorious hotel in the background.

Contrary to what some people think, the UAE is not a barren landscape. It is a jewel that sparkles with its glitzy flair amidst a sea of brown dunes and blue seas.

The 10 best UAE views are an appetiser to the main course that awaits eager travellers and adventurous explorers.

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Experience the

Best of Maldives at Anantara Kihavah Villas

Kihavah Huravalhi Island, 20215, Maldives

+960 660 1020

kihavahmaldives@anantara.com

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‘MILLION-DOLLAR’ FACIALS & ULTRA-LUXE SKINCARE

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Luxurious and unique spa experience awaits at Velaa Private Island Velaa Private Island is renowned as an oasis of chic style and incomparable opulence tucked away in the Maldives’ pristine Noonu Atoll amid the Indian Ocean. Cosseting residences and innovative dining are just the start of what awaits, as Velaa Spa puts this island resort on a level beyond luxury with some of the world’s most exclusive spa treatments.

From expert facials and body treatments to ultra-high-end products, the pioneering spa treatments leave guests feeling and looking totally renewed.

Here are just a few treatments for a spa holiday unlike anywhere else in the world:

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DR BURGENER SWITZERLAND PRODUCTS Created by beauty rejuvenation expert Dr Pauline Burgener, Dr Burgener Switzerland products combine the virtues of natural active ingredients with cutting-edge Swiss technologies for unique and holistic beauty and wellness concepts. These scientific yet natural products are created in small batches to allow for full customisation, freshness, and purity, and offer a holistic beauty regimen across a wide collection of serums, creams, masks, toners, and more.

COLLAGEN FIRMING FACIAL WITH THE ULTRASOUND AND CAVITATION PEEL These two treatments are the perfect complement to each other. First, the Collagen Firming Facial stimulates skin from the inside out, using ultrasound waves to boost natural collagen and elastin production. Dr Burgener Switzerland’s Intense Lift Collagen Cream is then paired with a powerful rejuvenating collagen mask for a firmer, smoother, and more uniform complexion. This is enhanced by the Ultrasound and Cavitation Peel, which boosts collagen and elastin production even further, making even the dullest skin radiant and plump.

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MILLION-DOLLAR MAN FACIAL Using Dr Burgener Switzerland’s Bamboo Clarifying Exfoliating Skin Scrub for deep cleansing, the skin is treated to apply green caviar with antioxidant-rich gold trace elements while ultrasound waves repair and rejuvenate. A relaxing face massage to stimulate circulation and promote skin tone completes the treatment.

HIFU BODY SCULPTING This is a non-surgical treatment that uses the latest ultrasound technology to target subcutaneous fat tissue.

High-frequency waves create thermal energy that breaks down fat cells while tightening the skin around treatment areas, such as the lower leg, upper arm, abdomen, flanks, and thighs.

INBODY 770: BODY COMPOSITION ANALYSIS In just 30 minutes, discover extensive data on your body composition with the research-grade InBody 770. Your water levels, fat, and muscle mass will be measured to be reviewed within a medical, wellness or fitness context.

Visit https://www.velaaprivateisland.com/spa for more information on Velaa Spa and its menu of treatments.

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For the Culture

HOW A SON SPAWNED AN IDEA TO HELP

FUTURE

LEADERS Some people believe great ideas come to us in our waking moments of the day. Honestly, this notion has proven to be anything but correct in my experience.

Here is a perfect example: it is lunchtime on January 15, 2021, and my phone rings. It was my son Khaila who had recently graduated from Texas State University. He was calling to inform me that he had just received an email asking him to interview for his very first professional post-college job. His call was two-fold: to share the good news with me and ask me for help on his upcoming interview.

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ASKING FOR HELP He wanted to know what type of questions he should expect and how to respond to the questions he had never heard before. He also wanted to know what questions he should ask. Before I became an educator, I worked in corporate America as a general manager and often did the recruiting for my employers— this is why he was calling.

He shared that the email said it would be a brief interview to get to know him better, which is their way of conducting a screener interview.

We discussed what a screener interview entailed and the questions he should expect.

Our conversation turned from the type of questions to expect to the correct way to respond to them, which led to the two of us role-playing the interview process. The experience was the best lunch break ever!

My son asked if I could write down the questions and responses and send them to him. We ended our conversation with me saying to him: “You got this!”

THE FOLLOW-UP INTERVIEW A few days later, he called to let me know that he had made it to the next round of the interview process.

“Daddy, they asked five of the seven questions that we talked about, and they asked me about my salary expectations. The lady that conducted the interview said that I did an excellent job.”

Next, he calmly said to me: “Alright, dad, what should I expect during the next part of the interview?”

Again, we discussed whether the interview would be virtual or face to face? Regardless of the interview setting, he would be in control of the interview.

We began to simulate the second-round interview process, considering how the questions would differ this time around and the type of responses the interviewer would be expecting. We then role-played the actual interview. He again asked if I would write all the questions and answers and email them to him.

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SUGGESTING I HELP OTHERS He also asked if I would be willing to speak with his friends and walk them through the interview process and how to properly respond to questions. My response was, “Sure, no problem, but before you have them call me, please share the information that I emailed you with them.”

After several phone calls from my son and his friends from college, I started to get one “Thank you” text after another. Each of them received multiple offers during the interview process.

reach out to the HBCUs in Texas and donate the book to them?” Why not, indeed, Khaila, why not? This is just the beginning; my goal is to have more than 5,000 copies of this book in the hands of future leaders.

If God answered all your prayers, would it change the world or just yours? I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for someone!

On January 29, 2021, my son called and told me of the job offer he had accepted. During this phone call, he suggested that I write a book for students like him who needed help navigating their first post-college professional interview. I took his advice and authored the book “I Got the Job” A Quick Interview Guide to Getting the Job You Desire.

On April 11, 2021, I Got the Job was released. My first thought was to send a shipment of books to one of my former students, Ms Theresa Lam. She is the director of youth and veteran programmes for Goodwill North Central Texas. My goal was to support her work with youths and adults in our community looking for a second chance.

Since then, I have contacted the bookstores of our historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) via email or by sending them copies of the book to give to their students. My only request is that the university bookstore scans the books to students at zero cost.

THE IDEA FROM MY SON I did not wake up one morning, and the idea just came to me. No, my son asked me to donate copies of the book to his college bookstore for students just like him—students preparing for their very first post-college job interview.

My son’s next question was a simple one: “Why not

Larry Davis, whose passion for education and learning is second only to his love of God and his children, believes education needs a champion. As such, his “why” is to champion an education system in which every educator, teacher, and school leader make children a priority, focusing on their care, learning and unique talents.

This education system also does more to grow and support teachers to realise the mission and vision of the school district.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Davis has served at varying levels of the education system—including

as a high school principal, district coordinator for school improvement, and district coordinator for college and career readiness/CTE/IB Programs— and is currently the executive director of secondary education and talent development. He also spent 15 years in corporate America in various leadership positions.

Davis is a graduate of Eastern Hills High School, the University of Texas at Arlington and Texas Woman’s University located in Denton, all in Texas.

Al Huwelat Street, Villa No 15 - 4 Al Bateen , Al Falah St - Abu Dhabi, Tel: 02 666 0175

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BE PREPARED TO NOT COMPARE! There is an adage that states: “If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail.” This saying rings true to this day. Preparation is a tool that promotes consistency, confidence, trust, and a high level of poise in an individual’s chosen field. Being prepared is also beneficial since it provides a platform for readiness and availability.

Being available is the launching pad to greatness since your availability will envelop, package and expose your abilities.

However, being available without a plan is tantamount to a sailor operating a ship without sails; your destiny will not be in your hands but at the mercy of the trajectory of the elements.

In our process of preparation, it is easy for us to seek solace, maybe even reassurances, from those who might have carried out a similar function as us. We might unintentionally blindside ourselves in the realisation that no process, race, or life’s trajectory will end the same way. It is unhealthy to negate your process for the simplistic viewpoint, which makes the grass appear greener, lusher, and more attractive in a meadow nearest to you.

As generations transform through the test of time and extend the concept of life, it is almost bizarre how easy it is to compare times. There is a slightly annoying idea or concept which states our forefathers, or the generations before, were better than us who are primed for the now. We are ‘modern prime timers’ who give so much credence to a generation who wouldn’t know how to unmute themselves on a Zoom call or block someone on Whatsapp. Yet, we allow their successes and value to put us in a chokehold, merely because “greatest” is defined by how much they were able to achieve in their prime time.

No one can feel your toothache, but they might know what one feels like. Similarly, the definition, standards, and norms of greatness and success change with time.

It means, therefore, that success and greatest were not, are not, and will never be linear. Hence, it is important to be prepared. Don’t fall into the trap of comparing your skills, talents, attitudes, and aptitudes to those of others.

The recipe for disaster is ably masked in the ingredients of making comparisons.

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DON’T COMPARE, BE PREPARED Firstly, don’t compare, be prepared! It might sound cliché, but apples are not oranges. Yes! They are both tremendous sources of vitamin C and fibre, but they provide different moods to a breakfast, lunch, or dinner table. If you are an orange, be the best orange; don’t fall victim to jealousy because apples are preferred to oranges.

If you want a change in the world, be the change you want to see in the world. Create the space you know will make oranges attractive enough to garner or attain a share of the attention at the table of life. A simple fact is that comparison becomes invalidated because of the phenomenon called time.

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DEMAND MORE OF SELF Secondly, demand greater of self, and you will see greatness. Your greatness can only be defined by you, as with others who achieved their greatness.

When others make opinions of your efforts, it makes success seem exclusively subjective. Subjectivity, however, has a place because criticisms, when accepted and viewed positively, can shed a brighter light on your lustre, especially when you are motivated to be better than your former self.

Remember, greatness is not linear, irrespective of the normal or moral compass society uses to steer your mind away from the treacherous, painstaking, and arduous paths taken to achieve those feats. While norms and traditions are important for the transfer of values

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to the next generation, there must be a level of immunity exercised to add new points to what existed. Like everything of substance and even destruction, there will be variations that will drop a wrench in our programme.

Again, time is the master. However, if not used properly, it could be disastrous. It is natural to be content and willing to settle for a place considered comfortable.

Yet, the most beautiful plants endure an ugly transformation to expose their grandiosity to the world. We must be ready to enjoy being uncomfortable; life is not always a romantic affair where we achieve all that we can when we can. Let us not be so willing to settle; settling objects always find themselves at the bottom of the pile.

FACE THE MUSIC Additionally, don’t get distracted by your truth. There is a necessary argument which states: “It is not who did it first, it is about who it righted.” Be prepared to face the music! One thing I have learned in life is that noise will always present itself when we speak more than we listen.

Be prepared to actively listen to the soft voices, whether internally or externally!

Do not allow your truth to be a hindrance to your success.

It is okay to take counsel, but it is not okay to lose because you did not adapt and accommodate the new information.

Remember, our truth can also morph just as much as every experience, expertise, age, and knowledge. Our truth will automatically change because time is the greatest shifter of the goal post. Be prepared to score anyway!

Furthermore, the definition of lustre changes by era.

There are so many examples throughout time of this being a fact, especially with the advent of technology to help us analyse at a faster and more unique rate. For instance, there is the debate of who is the best footballer of all time, yet the names span different eras. There is the high-intensity debate that Messi is better than Maradona, and Cristiano Ronaldo is better than Pele. Yet, how do we compare high distinctions when time, opponents, rules, quality of surfaces, training, analysis, and life are so different? The simple answer is that we should not, we should be prepared to redefine greatness.

It is a known fact that some people do not listen until they hear a shout. Amusingly, it’s said that life whispers until it shouts. It is in our best interest to be a proactive microcosm of greatness by leading a life centred on the mantra, “Perfect practice promotes perfect performances.” A meaningful existence must be catering to achieving goals, progression, and actioning a purposeful process to become an actualised human being.

NO VALIDITY IN COMPARISON Finally, be prepared to not compare. There is no validity to comparisons since playing fielding is not the same for everybody. While we might be running the same 100 metres, we must consider that the regular man takes 45 steps to reach the finish line while Usain Bolt takes anywhere between 39 to 42 steps. It means, therefore, that we must endeavour to approach the race of life in the way best suited for us to give our best performance.

It is okay if our best is ridiculed by detractors. However,

we must remain resolute, knowing that most people scoff at things they can’t do. Most people will downplay success because they don’t have the guts, guile, or appetite to stomach the hardship success demands. At the same time, demand more effort from self to achieve greatness self-defined. Be prepared to show up and with a purpose. Your lustre will be promoted and sustained by your availability.

There is nothing called being satisfied when there is no limit to success and greatness. There is also something to achieve that is greater than what your former self was able to achieve. With success comes more responsibility.

Hence, we must refuse to settle since settling will dampen or hide our light from exposing our achievement, our triumph; our redefinition of what greatness is.

Hence, be different! Be prepared to not compare!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JEROME DOUGLAS Jerome Douglas is a new dad, trained teacher, poet and writer from the beautiful island of Jamaica. His personal philosophy is “If it is for me to be, then it is up to me.” He attended the Catholic College of Mandeville in Jamaica. Additionally, he is a community builder and humanitarian who volunteers his time to help with the academic and social well-being of people in his Central Jamaica community and surrounding areas.

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Shelf Life

TEN

LIFE-CHANGING BOOKS YOU MUST READ

1. THE ALCHEMIST An Andalusian shepherd boy’s quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined.

There are several lessons to be learnt on the journey.

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2. THE POWER OF NOW A spiritual self-help guide to discovering the true Being, release pain and find deep inner peace.

3. THE POWER OF HABIT This book takes us to the thrilling edge of scientific discoveries that explain why habits exist and how they can be changed. Check out a whole new understanding of human nature and its potential for transformation.

5. SAPIENS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF HUMANKIND A groundbreaking narrative of humanity’s creation and evolution, this book explores the ways in which biology and history have defined us and enhanced our understanding of what it means to be “human”.

4. THE FOUR AGREEMENTS Find out the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives into a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love.

6. START WITH WHY “Why” isn’t just a word, it’s a powerful concept. In this telling book, Simon Sinek demonstrates why organisations guided by this concept will succeed more often than those which don’t.

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7. THE MIRACLE MORNING Upgrade your morning with a six-step routine using Life S.A.V.E.R.S.: silence, affirmations, visualisation, exercise, reading, and scribing.

9. THE UNTETHERED SOUL The Untethered Soul walks you through your relationship with your thoughts and emotions, helping you uncover the source and fluctuations of your inner energy. Delving into what you can do to free yourself from the habitual thoughts, emotions, and energy patterns that limit your consciousness, this book opens the door to a life lived in the freedom of your innermost being.

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8. THINK AND GROW RICH The book can be used to help people succeed in all lines of work and to be almost anything they want.

At the core of Think and Grow Rich are 13 principles designed to help you unleash the power of your mind. By adopting and mastering these principles, you can tap into the divine power of the universe—what Napoleon Hill called “Infinite Intelligence”.

10. ASK AND IT IS GIVEN Ask and It Is Given, by Esther and Jerry Hicks, which presents the teachings of the nonphysical entity Abraham, will help you learn how to manifest your desires to live the joyous and fulfilling life you deserve.

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