Woman
Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
Safia Ali Kanoo
Bahrain
Businesswomen’s Society President
Ahlam Janahi
Bahrain-based Pianist
Jelena Pavlovic IN HER SHOES
Rona Mae Jumawan
A Legacy of Art & Philanthropy
Ms. Kanoo’s love affair with the arts began at 17, when a Monet painting left an indelible mark on her soul. This formative moment propelled her to pursue art courses in France, where she developed her unique style, unfettered by convention. “I realised I didn’t like to confine myself to one style of art,” she explains. “I enjoyed fluctuating between modern, classic, oil and acrylic. My art constantly evolves through different periods of my life.”
Her passion eventually culminated in the establishment of the Safia Ali Kanoo Art Hub, a vibrant cultural space in Tubli. “I wanted to give back to the community by building a hub where artists can congregate and grow,” she says. Designed to foster creativity and collaboration, the hub offers educational classes, hosts exhibitions and provides a platform for Bahraini artists to showcase their work. “Seeing these artists thrive and connect has been deeply fulfilling,” she adds, reflecting on the waiting list of eager participants vying for a spot at the next exhibition.
In a celebration of her extraordinary talent and unwavering generosity, Safia Ali Kanoo was honoured with the prestigious 2024 Woman of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award. This accolade recognises her remarkable contributions to philanthropy and the arts, which she graciously highlights in this exclusive interview with Woman This Month.
Despite her devotion to art, Ms. Kanoo’s philanthropic efforts have always taken precedence. For over two decades, she postponed her dream of opening the art hub to prioritise charitable initiatives. Her acts of kindness range from supporting cancer clinics and building homes for the elderly to funding mosques. “Every time I wanted to focus on my art centre, another cause would arise,” she recalls. “How could I say no to people in need?”
Among her most cherished projects is a cancer centre for children, where she provides a nurturing environment designed to inspire optimism and hope. “I’ve seen these children grow up and flourish despite the odds. That’s the true reward,” she says. Ms. Kanoo’s philanthropic reach extends far beyond Bahrain. Her travels to Paris, Monte Carlo and Marbella inspire her artistic creations, which often reflect diverse cultural influences. Her personal collection, including works by Degas and Monet, underscores a deeper appreciation for art.
Summers spent in her homes abroad provide the perfect backdrop for reflection and inspiration, yet she never loses sight of her commitment to her community. Her ability to balance creativity, compassion and community service sets her apart as a true role model. When asked what makes her happy, she simply muses: “It’s seeing others smile because of something I’ve done. That’s true happiness.”
The Safia Ali Kanoo Art Hub welcomes not just local talent but also international artists, proving that art knows no boundaries. Her tireless dedication to the arts and philanthropy continues to inspire and uplift, embodying a legacy of generosity and passion.
To aspiring artists and changemakers, Ms. Kanoo offers this advice: “Stay true to your passion and always find a way to give back. The impact you make will be your greatest masterpiece.”
Bahraini
Women’s Day and Bahrain National Day Celebration
Royal University for Women celebrated Bahraini Women’s Day and Bahrain National Day at its campus.
EMPOWERING WOMEN IN BUSINESS
On May 23, the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society (BBS) will mark 25 years of shaping the landscape of female entrepreneurship in Bahrain. Ahead of the society’s Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE), Farah Baig sat down with BBS President and Cofounder, Ahlam Janahi. She shared some insight into its achievements and future goals while shining a light on the highly-anticipated forum.
Can you give our readers some insight into your journey as BBS President?
Taking on the role of President of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society has been an incredibly transformative experience. When I first became involved with BBS, I was inspired by its mission to support women’s aspirations. Taking on the responsibility of leading the organisation offered me an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the business landscape in Bahrain.
My immediate focus was to build a clear vision for the future of BBS and ensure that it would not only be a platform for women to network but also a powerhouse for change, advocacy and opportunity.
What were some of your key priorities?
Cultivating strong partnerships with public and private sectors has been essential. By collaborating with government bodies, businesses and other organisations, we’ve been able to create synergies that elevate the role of women in business across Bahrain. In fact, BBS has signed over 70 MoUs with more to be signed at the Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing women’s access to leadership roles and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Advocating for policy change has been a cornerstone of my leadership. We’ve actively worked with local authorities to raise awareness about the importance of gender parity in the workplace.
What do you consider to be some of the society’s key achievements over the last 25 years?
BBS has achieved several significant milestones including the increased representation of women in business leadership, establishment of a thriving network for businesswomen, successful international collaboration and recognition, policy influence and advocacy and the strengthening of Bahrain’s economic development by fostering the growth of women-led businesses.
Furthermore, the society has been instrumental in empowering women in new industries. BBS has been at the forefront of encouraging Bahraini women to participate in emerging industries, such as technology, finance and innovation. By offering specialised programmes, such as in STEM fields, BBS has increased the participation of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
How has your role evolved over the years?
It has transformed from a more traditional leadership position to one that is dynamic, multifaceted and integrated into both, local and regional business ecosystems. As part of this change, we now have a stronger focus on digital transformation and innovation while strengthening regional and international networks.
My role has also evolved in the context of movements toward diversity and inclusion. Today, we are not just talking about gender equality but also creating opportunities for women from diverse backgrounds, including women with disabilities, women in rural areas and those from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
What are some of the recent initiatives introduced by BBS to foster a more inclusive business environment?
We have the Women in Leadership Programme which empowers women with the skills, confidence and networking opportunities to advance into leadership roles. The Bahraini Women in Technology Initiative supports the growing demand for women in the tech sector. Meanwhile the Young Entrepreneurs Programme supports young aspiring entrepreneurs through a series of workshops and incubator programmes – an essential initiative at BBS as it enables us to develop the next generation of businesswomen.
Furthermore, we work closely with financial institutions for funding programmes, facilitates international networking and collaboration and has several social responsibility and sustainability initiatives.
What are some of the society’s key goals moving forward?
Our goals are centred around strengthening our impact, expanding opportunities and ensuring that we continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of businesswomen in Bahrain, the region and beyond. To highlight our long-term goals, we aim to establish a global platform for Bahraini women, create a sustainable mentorship and leadership pipeline and strengthen the economic contribution of women in Bahrain.
BBS will soon organise the Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE). What can attendees expect?
The Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE) will bring together women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and experts from around the world to discuss key issues affecting women in the global economy and celebrate their achievements. attendees can expect inspirational talks and keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops, networking opportunities and exhibitions.
The forum will feature prominent keynote speakers, including successful entrepreneurs, thought leaders and advocates for gender equality. These speakers will share insights on topics like leadership, innovation, economic empowerment, gender parity and social impact.
The forum provides an excellent platform for networking with fellow entrepreneurs, professionals and investors. Attendees can establish valuable business connections, form collaborations and even identify potential investors for their ventures.
Can you highlight some of the panellists and speakers at this year’s event?
There are around 50 local, regional and international speakers who will be at this year’s event. These speakers include
Deputy to the Director General and the Managing Director of the Directorate of Global Partnerships and External Relations at UNIDO, Fatou Haidara, Director General of Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (IsFD), Dr Hiba Ahmed, Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain (UNIDO-ITPO), Dr. Hashim Hussein and Cécilia Attias who is the Senior VP of Public Affairs at Richard Attias & Associates, Founder & President of Cecilia Attias Foundation for Women and Former First Lady of France.
What would be your advice to women seeking advancement in their career or the business world?
Build confidence, develop key skills, foster relationships and embrace resilience. The journey to success is unique for every individual, but there are some common principles that can help women thrive in the professional world. Take ownership of your career, continue to learn and develop and build strong relationships with mentors, peers and allies. Seek leadership opportunities, embrace risk and make sure to prioritise selfcare along the way.
Success in the business world is not just about reaching the top—it’s about the journey, the growth and the impact you make as you move forward.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I would like to congratulate HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. I would like to thank the President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, our Honorary President, Shaikha Thajba Bint Salman Al Khalifa and all the concerned ministries, organisations, media and sponsors for their unwavering support over the last 25 years.
As the president of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society (BBS), I would like to emphasise our continued commitment to empowering women in business and fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth
Over the years, we have seen remarkable progress, but there is still much more to do. The road ahead is filled with exciting opportunities and I’m committed to ensuring that the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society remains a driving force in shaping a more inclusive and prosperous business landscape for women in Bahrain and beyond.
To register for the Global Women Economic Forum, visit gwefe.com.
Sushi Library Grand Opening
Apparel Group held the grand opening of Forest Essentials Luxurious Ayurveda at City Centre Bahrain.
Apparel Group held the grand opening of the first Sushi Library branch in Bahrain at Marassi Galleria.
JELENA’S MELODIC MAGIC
As one of the Kingdom’s finest pianists, Jelena Pavlovic is no stranger to performing on the grand stage. In this exclusive interview with Woman This Month, she tells Kristian Harrison about her early start in music, her journey to Bahrain, and how she has contributed to the local music scene through her performances and teaching.
Jelena’s love for music started early, sparked by her mother’s visits to philharmonic concerts. “At the age of six, I was tested for musical ability and rhythm, which led to my acceptance into music school with a major in piano,” she recalls. Over 10 years, she studied piano alongside subjects such as harmony, solfeggio, accompaniment and composition. “I competed in regional and national competitions, placing second twice in Serbia,” she adds. Her hard work culminated in a diploma as a pianist and accompanist.
Although Jelena pursued other studies, graduating in History from University College London and building a career in translation, HR and project management, her passion for music never waned. “When my family moved to the Middle East, first to Saudi Arabia and then Bahrain, I reignited my music career by teaching at schools and privately,” she explains. Her inspirations include classical
Marta Argerich, Ivo Pogorelić and Rita Kinka.
Jelena moved from Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, to Bahrain in 2013 with her husband’s job and quickly integrated into the island’s music community. “Bahrain’s vibrant music scene brings together talents from around the world and fosters local artistry,” she says. She plays a dual role, both as a performer at events like weddings and corporate gatherings and as an educator cultivating the next generation of musicians. “I’ve worked as a vocal coach and music teacher at the British School of Bahrain, expanding my private teaching while continuing to perform.”
Jelena’s versatility as a performer allows her to adapt to various settings. “I enjoy intimate celebrations such as weddings as much as high-profile VIP events like car reveals or themed evenings at restaurants,” she says.
Her repertoire spans genres, from classical to modern hits, including rock, pop and dance. “I often adapt popular songs for the piano, blending styles to suit the occasion,” she explains.
Several career highlights stand out for Jelena. “Performing for high-level Bahraini officials after a Formula 1 event, a Genesis car reveal at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, and most recently, the Woman of the Year Awards 2024 were unforgettable experiences,” she shares. Organising student recitals also holds a special place in her heart.
Looking ahead, Jelena hopes to expand her teaching and performance reach within Bahrain and across the region. “I’d love to perform in Abu Dhabi and Dubai while continuing to inspire young musicians. My dream is to open a music institute one day,” she says.
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UNWIND in LUXURY
Woman This Month’s Brand Ambassador, Esky Dubois, shares her thoughts on the Swedish massage experience at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa.
December, a month of festivities, always holds a special place in my heart, especially as a long-time resident of Bahrain. While I usually spend this time treating my loved ones, this year, I had the pleasure of experiencing a blissful Swedish massage at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa alongside my colleague Nikki and model Franchisca.
Nestled in the heart of Bahrain, the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa is a haven of tranquillity. Stepping into the serene spa, we were immediately enveloped in a calming atmosphere. Soft music played gently in the background, while the air was filled with the soothing aroma of essential oils. The warm welcome from the attentive staff, including the spa manager, immediately put us at ease.
Guided into a softly lit treatment room, I was introduced to my skilled therapist. She patiently enquired about my preferences and any areas of concern, ensuring a personalised experience. The massage itself was a symphony of relaxation, employing traditional Swedish techniques to alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation and promote overall well-being.
Nikki shared her experience: “My therapist’s gentle yet firm strokes effectively released the knots and tension in my muscles. The combination of kneading, long gliding strokes, and circular motions provided immense relief, particularly in my shoulders and back, areas prone to stress accumulation.”
Franchisca highlighted the exquisite aromatic oil sourced from Sri Lanka: “It left my skin feeling incredibly smooth, deeply hydrated and beautifully nourished. My therapist recommended leaving it on for enhanced moisturising benefits, particularly during the dry winter months, ensuring my skin remained soft and supple long after the session.”
What truly stood out was the personalised approach. Throughout the session, my therapist consistently checked in to ensure the pressure was perfectly suited to my comfort level.
As the session concluded, I was invited to join the ladies and enjoy a warm cup of tea in the spa’s tranquil lounge. With a delightful selection of teas available, it was the perfect opportunity to relax and savour the physical and mental rejuvenation I felt while sipping my blueberry tea.
The spa operates daily from 10am to 11pm, making it convenient to schedule your appointment amidst a busy schedule. The Swedish massage at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa is more than just a treatment; it’s an indulgent experience that every woman deserves. Whether you’re seeking relief from stress or simply indulging in a pampering session, this luxurious retreat is the perfect sanctuary.
To book your appointment, call 17 525-237.
Colour & Silhouettes A Vibrant Celebration of
Forget about 2025’s Mocha Mousse. This month, we explore Missoni’s eclectic 2025 collection as we step into a bright and exciting new year.
This year’s Pantone Colour of the Year has the internet divided straight down the middle. The shade Mocha Mousse, a warm shade of brown, has most people in an uproar with the majority opting to go with their own bright hues. We’re not one to shy away from bright colours, so here’s Missoni’s collection that inspires a wave of excitement for our fashion adventures in 2025!
The Missoni tribe of order ‘n chaos is noted for the bodycon silhouettes and the dancing volumes. The collection has a great mix of masculine and feminine pieces with dresses, leggings, tops, long skirts, trousers and more. It is abstract, playful and one that turns heads. It’s just what we need to brighten up the months ahead.
This collection from Missoni steps into another dimension: one of primary coloursred, blue, yellow, and then black and white, and finally the iconic house patterns that are zigzagging. It’s bright, sculptural and fun.
FILORGA SKIN-PREP COLLECTION
2025 is the year to glow, and this range is just what you need to achieve just that!
FILORGA’s new facial cleansing collection is designed to enhance skin health and radiance through a clinic-inspired approach. Combining soft and deep cleansing techniques, this range addresses issues like clogged pores, dullness and skin sensitivity by removing impurities, dead skin cells and pollution particles.
Featuring Enzymatic Technology with papain enzyme for gentle exfoliation, it prepares the skin to absorb antiaging treatments more effectively. The range includes the Perfecting Cleansing Oil, Micellar Solution, Enzymatic Cleansing Foam, AHA Cleansing Gel and Enzymatic
Exfoliating Cream for a comprehensive skincare routine that leaves skin refreshed and rejuvenated.
Available at Boots and Ounass.com
for the New Year
We can’t believe it’s 2025! Start the new year the right way with these fantastic products that will have you feeling rejuvenated, smelling sweet and looking your finest.
KOSAS BROWS THAT WOW
Kosas is known for being a TikTok-viral beauty sensation beloved by celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Kim Kardashian, Olivia Wilde and Kylie Jenner.
Wearing makeup is a perfect opportunity to take care of your skin. Kosas uses super nourishing ingredients at clinically proven active levels to improve your skin – even when it’s bare. Every product is made for sensitive skin, dermatologisttested and delivers measurable skincare benefits – hydrating, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, plumping, firming and more. There are plenty of Kosas beauty products that are sure to entice you including the Revealer Concealer, Wet
Lip Oil and Hotliner Contouring Lip Liner but we’ve got our eyes on the brand’s fantastic brow range.
The Brow Team has everything you need for instant brow magic. These four awardwinning essentials are super easy to use and packed with nourishing haircare actives: AirBrow Tinted Volumising Treatment Gel, AirBrow Clear Lifting treatment Gel, BrowPop Dual Action Defining Pencil and BrowPop Nano UltraFine detailing Pencil. It’s just what you need for that strong and defined brow in 2025.
Available at Sephora.
ELEVATING YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE: CHANEL
More than just a skincare line, CHANEL RITUALS SUBLIMAGE is known for its restorative effects on skin. All the regenerating power of Vanilla Planifolia, grown at the CHANEL open-sky laboratory in Madagascar, is showcased in exceptional skincare products that offer comprehensive anti-aging benefits.
At the heart of this exceptional line is an even more precious ritual: Les Extraits. Swertia extracts, from plants grown at the CHANEL open sky laboratory located in Bhutan, combine their repairing effect with the regenerating properties of polyfractioned Vanilla Planifolia, the signature SUBLIMAGE active ingredient.
Now, the line has two additional products, the SUBLIMAGE L’EXTRAIT DE LOTION for the start of your routine and SUBLIMAGE L’EXTRAIT POMMADE OR to concludes the routine, providing the ultimate boost of radiance. Your SUBMLIMAGE routine now includes four steps offering the skin a newfound radiance
The lotion is a pre-serum with remarkable regenerating and repairing properties promising smoother and more radiant and hydrated skin. The pomade, with its essential oils and light-reflecting pearlescent pearls, is the crown jewel of the SUBLIMAGE skincare line. It features regenerating and repairing properties and adds the ultimate finishing
OUR SWEET LUSH OBSESSION
LUSH’s Sticky Dates collection went viral on TikTok and has been a global sensation ever since. The collection has the most addictive scent and is absolutely coveted by all us gourmand scent layering girlies. As part of the collection, we are absolutely swooning over the Sticky Dates body lotion, body scrub and lip scrub.
The Sticky Dates body lotion is a decadent lotion full of luxurious Fair Trade organic cocoa and illipe butters with a warm vanilla pod decoction, loaded with LUSH’s fan-favourite scent. It’s available in 100gm and 250gm bottles and will keep you moisturised and smelling sweet 24/7!
The scrub is just what you need to exfoliate, moisturise and scent your skin with a rich, vanilla-caramel fragrance. For the full routine, lather up with the range’s shower gel first. Once you’ve rinsed, gather a handful of this scrub to sweep over your body. The scrub contains golden caster sugar, Fair Trade organic cocoa butter and date syrup which will leave your skin feeling hydrated, smooth and soft. And, of course, the best things come in small packages and so the lip scrub is sure to be your latest addiction. Sweep on a sumptuously sweet scrub with exfoliating caster sugar and hydrating jojoba oil for a pout that’ll break the internet.
Available at LUSH stores and lush.com
touch, for a boost of beauty, well-being, and radiance. It acts as a protective shield by strengthening the skin barrier, for visibly smoother, more resilient, and luminous skin. This year, treat yourself to a skincare routine that is truly sublime.
Available at leading beauty stockists
Please Let them Play with Their Food!
Meal time can be tough with kids, if it’s unfamiliar to them. Ouiam El Hassani shares her tips on getting your child to try new food.
We’ve all been there: You’ve just spent a good 30 minutes creating a meal you think your kiddo will love and devour. But when you set it on the table, your child turns up their nose, declaring they won’t eat it, have never liked it, and will definitely not be trying it tonight. The dinner table soon devolves into a power struggle, and you’re both left feeling upset and unheard. As it turns out, begging your child to “just try one bite” is doing more harm than good. Instead, practice taking the pressure off. Recent research shows that letting your kid play with their food – with zero pressure to actually eat it – can help them safely explore new tastes and textures in an anxiety-free environment. Kids learn through play, and bringing that concept to mealtime can be a gamechanger for many kids, but especially for kids with sensory challenges or aversions to certain food or textures.
Eating is a lot of hard work, so it is easy to see how a playful approach can facilitate
stress-free habits. To swallow, we use 26 muscles and six cranial nerves, along with all five senses and body awareness – it’s an information super-highway.
Bringing play into the picture at snack time and mealtime can help kids get familiar with foods – especially new foods. Letting kids play with food can also decrease anxiety and remove the sense of pressure to eat that children may feel because it empowers their curiosity. Food is less surprising when we play with it first.
So how can you ensure that your kid won’t starve and that you’re not spending minutes you don’t have to make a second meal? Fill their plates with some food your child recognises and already enjoys, plus the addition of just one or two new foods to explore. Then, encourage them to get their hands dirty. Letting kids touch and handle what’s on their plate with no expectation to actually taste it can take the pressure off the situation for all involved.
To learn about food, you need to get messy. That might mean allowing kids the freedom to stack, roll, squash or mash what’s on their plate, all to just get comfortable with the idea of a new food and its texture, scent, and colour. This is especially helpful when introducing foods they haven’t seen before. This is the key when allowing kids the space and time to explore.
One more thing: Try not to wipe that cute chin or clean those messy hands until exploratory time is over.
While yes, table manners are a very valuable skill, that can come in due course. In the meantime, opening your kid up to the wide world of food and all the sensory experiences that come with it is incredibly important, especially when they’re young.
As parents, we need to make sure a child eats correctly through integrating development, nutrition and environmental cues. However, kids should have agency in this area, too.
There’s a clear demarcation between the child’s role and the parent’s role when it comes to feeding and eating. Respecting these natural boundaries can make mealtimes easier and more joyous for all involved. Here is a rundown of how the roles can or should be divided: The parent or caregiver decides what, when and where to eat.
The child decides whether and how much to eat.
Adopting this approach is a helpful reminder that children need to be able to determine for themselves whether they want to eat in the first place – and how much of a food they want to eat.
Remember, every child is different. What works for one child may not work for another. The most important thing is to create a positive and supportive eating environment. By focusing on the joy of eating and the social aspects of mealtime, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
New Millennium School Annual Day
New Millenium School (NMS) held its Annual Day celebrations in the presence of Indian Ambassador, HE Vinod K. Jacob, and NMS Chairman, Dr. Ravi Pillai.
WANDERLUST WONDERS
6 ICONIC DESTINATIONS YOU CAN’T MISS IN 2025
Travelling offers a chance to experience different cultures, landscapes and histories. Some of the most stunning destinations around the world are found in well-known countries. Here are some bucket list destinations for 2025 that’ll charm you with the diversity and beauty of the world.
ITALY: Amalfi Coast
Italy is renowned for its rich history, art and scenic beauty. Among the most iconic places to visit is the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site located along the southwestern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula in the Campania region. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush gardens and picturesque villages, the Amalfi Coast has long been a favourite among travelers. The coast’s crown jewel is the town of Positano, with its colourful buildings cascading down the hillside to the crystal-clear waters below. Wander through narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes, or take a boat ride
to fully appreciate the stunning coastline. Further along, the town of Amalfi is home to the striking Cathedral of St. Andrew which offers access to serene beaches and charming local eateries. Ravello, perched high above the coast, is another gem, known for its breathtaking views and historic villas including Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, which host classical music festivals each summer. A drive along the coastal road, the SS163, presents unparalleled views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, making the Amalfi Coast a must-see destination.
FRANCE: Provence
Moving west from Italy, France offers many treasures, but the region of Provence stands out as a quintessential getaway for those seeking a mix of nature, history and luxury. Known for its lavender fields, vineyards and charming hilltop villages, Provence is a haven for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Avignon, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, is a mustvisit for anyone interested in history. The Palais des Papes, once home to the Popes in the 14th century, is an imposing structure that dominates the town’s skyline. For a more serene experience, the Luberon Valley, dotted with picturesque villages like Gordes and Roussillon, offers opportunities for hiking, beverage-tasting and exploring the countryside’s stunning beauty.
JAPAN: Kyoto
Travelling to the east, Japan offers a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is a city of temples, gardens and geishas, offering visitors a deep dive into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The city’s Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is one of the most iconic landmarks, set against a tranquil pond surrounded by lush gardens. For those interested in traditional tea ceremonies, Kyoto is the perfect place to experience this unique aspect of Japanese culture. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove provides a magical walk through towering bamboo stalks, while Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of red torii gates, is a spiritual and awe-inspiring site.
SOUTH AFRICA: Cape Town
South Africa’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities make it a top destination for travellers. Cape Town, located at the southern tip of the African continent, offers a dramatic mix of coastal beauty and cultural richness. The iconic Table Mountain dominates the city skyline, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
Nearby, you’ll find the picturesque Cape Winelands, renowned for producing some of the best wines in the world. Take a wine tour in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, or visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where rugged cliffs meet the ocean.
AUSTRALIA: Great Barrier Reef
On the other side of the world, Australia offers some of the most unique and extraordinary natural wonders. The Great Barrier Reef is arguably the country’s most famous destination, attracting divers and nature lovers from across the globe. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers, the reef is home to an abundance of marine life, including colorful coral, fish and sea turtles.
Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site provides an unparalleled opportunity for snorkelling, scuba diving and boat tours. Cairns, the gateway to the reef, also offers other attractions such as tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and indigenous cultural experiences.
Each of these destinations provides a unique experience, whether it’s the cultural wealth of Kyoto, the pristine natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, or the stunning coastal vistas of the Amalfi Coast. As travellers seek out new adventures, these iconic spots offer something for everyone, be it history, nature or the beauty of human achievement. Ready to travel in 2025?
UNITED STATES: Grand Canyon
The United States offers a wide variety of natural and urban destinations. Among its most awe-inspiring landmarks is the Grand Canyon, located in Arizona. The sheer scale of the canyon, carved over millions of years by the Colorado River, is a humbling sight. Visitors can hike along the rim or venture down into the canyon. The viewpoints at sunrise and sunset are especially breathtaking.
BEAT THE WINTER CHILL
Cosy Up This Winter with a Hearty Bowl of Spiced Butternut Squash Soup
As 2025 begins and the winter chill sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a steaming bowl of homemade soup. This Spiced Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect recipe to kick off the year with comfort and flavour. Packed with seasonal ingredients and aromatic spices, it’s both nourishing and delicious – a must-try for cosy winter evenings.
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 1 medium butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and diced)
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- Toasted pumpkin seeds
- A drizzle of olive oil or coconut milk
- Crusty bread or garlic croutons
Preparation
1. Prepare the Butternut Squash by peeling, seeding and dicing it into small cubes. This will ensure even cooking and a smooth texture for your soup.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for three to four minutes until translucent. Stir in the diced carrots and cook for another five minutes, letting the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika and ginger over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat them with the
spices, allowing the flavours to bloom. Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and mix everything together.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the squash and vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the squash and carrots are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
5. Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion
blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend it in batches in a countertop blender.
6. Stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) to give the soup a velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of olive oil or coconut milk, or a side of crusty bread. The toppings add texture and elevate the presentation
8. Tuck into your delicious bowl of winter comfort!
Rona Mae Jumawan is
the Assistant Marketing Manager
at Palavra Resort. This month, we take a walk in her shoes to get some insight into her role and discover some of her preferences.
Walk us through a typical day in your role as the Assistant Marketing Manager at Palavra Resort. I manage campaigns, collaborate with teams, and oversee social media. Every day is a mix of creativity and strategy to ensure our brand stands out.
What’s the most exciting part of your job? Can you share a moment that made you realise the impact of your work on the resort’s success?
The best part is seeing ideas come to life. When the Island Jungle Brunch sold out, and guests kept sharing their experiences, it showed how impactful our efforts are.
What’s your secret to staying organised and managing your time effectively?
In my role, everything feels like it’s ASAP, but the key is recognising the top priority and tackling that first. From there, you work through the rest efficiently.
When you’re not at work, what’s your favourite way to unwind?
I love relaxing by the beach or discovering new restaurants with friends.
Ideal weekend: night out with friends or at home chilling?
A mix! Some weekends I love going out, and others I prefer a cosy night in.
If you were not in the field of marketing, what would you be doing?
I’m obsessed with flowers, so I’d be running my own flower shop –surrounded by blooms all day!
Describe your personality in three words.
Creative, driven, adaptable.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs – they’re so full of love and loyalty!
If you had the chance to have a dream vacation anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
The Amalfi Coast, sipping cocktails by the sea. It’s the perfect blend of luxury, relaxation and stunning views.
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