Woman This Month - May 2018

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | FOOD | LOCAL ISSUES

May 2018 | Issue 183 | BD1 / SR10

TRAVEL Capital connections

FOOD

BEAUTY Ramadan Makeup Natural hair saviours Tried and tested treatments

Delish dining Heritage recipe

HOMES

Bringing the outside in

Wellbeing

What’s holding back your weight loss?

FASHION

Shoes, shoes, shoes!

Mobeena the mobaya lady

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT Lady boxers ready to rumble Dina Shiraz on challenging traditions

Developments in the workplace Women Power Summit programme

www.womanthismonth.com

WE’RE ON OUR WAY! Keep loafing around.

We’ve got you covered with just a click! n o w d e l i v e r i n g t h r o u g h c a r r i ag e .

MAY 6 Over to You 8 The Month in Focus 10 Hot Shots: Things that have piqued the editor’s interest this month

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FASHION

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12 Pick of the month: A Timely Intervention 14 Focus: Her Comes the Sun 15 Essentials: 10 Things to Try 16-19 Trend: Summer shoe special 20-21 Get The Look: Business dressing 22 Mobeena Inam: The Mobaya lady 24 Backstage Pass: News from the world of fashion 26 Mood Board: English Countryside

FEATURE - EMPOWERMENT 30-31 Dr Murat Koc: Women's health specialist 35 Sarah Al-Sammack: Cycling champion 37 Aniseh and Nancy: Charity breakfast founders 38-39 Boxer Babes: The women preparing to get in the ring 40 Sameera Ahmed: Coaching president 42-44 Women Power Summit: Full programme

BEAUTY 48 Tips: Ramadan make-up 50 Styling: Summer hair saviours 52 News: Latest products and happenings

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LIFESTYLE 56-57 Wellbeing: What's sabotaging your weightloss 58 Food: Chef's Special 59 Food: Review 60-61 Homes: Outside In 62-65 Travel: Capital connections 70 Opinion: Ouiam Charkani El Hassani

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71 Horoscope: What's in store this month.

72 In Her Shoes: Monica Vaziri

For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail sales@womanthismonth.com.

The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

Editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at editor@womanthismonth.com. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

his month's issue is all about women's empowerment, a subject that's very close to all our hearts. It's a topic that's much in the news of late and one that we decided to cover in response to you, our readers, and Bahrain's business community.

You were telling us you wanted to know more about the women who are pushing the envelop and taking the island forward, so, that's exactly what we've done.

We've partnered with the inaugural Women Power Summit, which has attracted speakers from across the region looking at subjects as diverse as how to be your own best brand ambassador, women in tech and more. And, as well as interviewing Sarah Al-Samak and the Bahrain Airport Services duo, Nadia Bouslama and Hana Ali, who are participating, we've also spoken to a whole range of other inspiring women.

Dina Shirazi, of Bahrain Jewellery Centre, tells us how she bucked tradition to join the family business; Aniseh and Nancy explain what prompted them to set up a woman-centric charity event and we turn the spotlight on Sameera Ahmed whose taken over the presidency of Bahrain's chapter of the International Coaching Federation.

And, so great was the response to our initial women's empowerment feature, that we've decided to launch our own targeted forum event later in the year as well as the very first Women of the Year Award — watch this space!

The fashion pages cover a subject that's equally close to our hearts - shoes, shoes and more shoes and, in keeping with the empowerment theme, Fernanda's given us some great workwear options in Get The Look.

In the beauty section, we've tried out some great treatments, that come highly recommended and I also got the option to sample the food at the new Jumeirah Royal Saray - it was yummy.

As always, there's travel and homes and much, much more and we're still working on Woman This Month's new-look website, where you'll find regular competitions, news and updates. Have a look and let me know what you think either on social media or write to liz@redhousemarketing.com.

chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY contributors APPLE SHARMA BEHNAZ SANJANA FERNANDA LANGHAMMER RAPHAEL OUIAM CHARKANI EL HASSANI head of digital operations NEIL F VAZ print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics The only HATEM MONEM media coordinator women's SARAH ANSARI magazine media managers h it w d te bu EKATERINA ESPINASSE distri circulation and research the GDN ROANNA FERNANDES photography editor MONA ABDUL JABBAR photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ W.L.L., BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2017© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 Woman This Month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle.

Bahrain office address Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: editor@womanthismonth.com website: www.womanthismonth.com Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing P. O. Box 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director

May 2018, Issue 183

Our month: Kat has been a busy bee this month checking out the Thai Street Food Festival at the Sheraton and also the anniversary of Big Texas at The Dragon, Amwaj

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On the cover: Women's Empowerment

www.womanthismonth.com

news Most Liked Post on Facebook

Best Reaction on Twitter Most Liked Post on Instagram

On twitter, a post with a link to list of events in Bahrain – April in Focus – got the highest reach and engagement.

On Instagram, our contest to win two pieces from the latest collection of Desert Cove received the highest number likes.

Letters The cover of Woman This Month’s April edition was such a lovely one! It looked cool, refreshing and absolutely ontrend. It conveyed a lot about the essence of a lady – fun, fearless and fashionable. The image and colours on the page made the magazine look at par with other international publications.

Well done!

Mimi, Adliya

I loved last month’s Homes pages ‘Pinkspiration’. You channelled my favourite colour and gave some great grown-up ideas for using it all around the home. I am seriously coveting the unicorn table lamp from Namshi, which is within my budget, and the gorgeous Angello Cappellini armchairs, which, sadly, are not.

Guess I’d better start saving.

Ellen, Jannusan

I’ve always struggled with blush. Either I layer it on too thick, or it’s in the wrong place on my face. Not being much of a make-up girl, I like to play with colour on my face every once in a while.

Following WTM’s beauty tips gives me more confidence to do it right. I have been practising at home with different shades. And when I feel its done right, I go about my daily tasks feeling that much more beautiful.

Nasreen, Budaiya

I have been trying to decide an ideal location for a relaxing beach holiday to take with the family, and WTM’s travel article couldn’t have come at a better time. When I saw the three destinations, which are already on my shortlist by the way, I could compare and choose better at a glance. So, Seychelles it is.

Janna, Jasra

On Facebook, the post featuring the video of Woman This Month’s April 2018 edition attracted the highest impressions and reach.

# Trending

What’s caught our eye in the news this month

Eco-friendly Ambition Paris-based architect Vincent Callebaut wants his buildings to be more than your average tower block. His vision is to create an energysaving, carbon-absorbing civilisation to fight global warming. One of his eco-friendly ideas – Tao Zhu Yin Yuan, meaning ‘The Retreat of Tao Zhu’ – is in the process of being completed later this year. The residential complex will be covered in 23,000 trees and shrubs. The appearance of this urban forest is actually modelled after a strand of DNA and, if all goes to plan, Callebaut says the plants will absorb 130 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions each year – the equivalent of around 27 cars. www.cnn.com

The ‘Fearless Girl’ statue, which faces Wall Street’s ‘Charging Bull’ sculpture in Uower Manhattan, is slated to be moved by the end of the year. Its new location will be facing the New York Stock Exchange. The move is due to safety concerns and pedestrian traffic, as per The New York Times. Fearless Girl, a bronze work sculpted by Kristen Visbal, stands in a narrow spot in a corner of Bowling Green. According to city officials, this creates a safety hazard due to the large number of tourists visiting the spot every day. www.huffingtonpost.com

We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at editor@womanthismonth.com Follow us on:

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May 2018

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Twitter: @WomanThisMonth

Facebook: Woman This Month www.womanthismonth.com

UNMATCHED RAMADAN EXPERIENCE Embrace Ramadan traditions this season by sharing memories with family and friends at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. A promising and unmatched Ramadan experience awaits starting with a culinary journey of aromatic menus, enjoyed under our luxurious new Masaya Ramadan tent. Call (+973) 1758 6499 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Iftar at BHD 25++. Ghabgha at BHD 27++. Pergolas with maximum of 8 guests. Private dining of selected hot buffet items inclusive of 3 complimentary Shishas at BHD 300++. Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 10% government levy. Reservations are required.

No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. Š2018 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

news

May in Focus Model Intentions

We’re rather intrigued by a course being run by the 7th Wave School of Performing Arts. It’s happening on May 19 and is aimed at girls or women aged 14 and above who fancy trying their hand at modelling. It promises tips, info on the different types of modelling and a fashion show to finish the session. But, what’s more interesting, it’s also mentioned that the course may be useful for improving confidence giving women tips on deportment and style which can be a welcome boost even for those who have no intention of hitting the catwalk.

The Bargains Are Back

Ramadan Kareem

The Holy Month will soon be upon us.

It’s expected to be begin around May 15, depending on the sighting of the moon. No doubt, like us, you will be attending plenty of Iftars, joining together with family, friends and colleagues to celebrate the end of the fast with those who are observing, and taking the chance to reflect on what this time of the year means. Check out the website of our sister publication www. bahrainthismonth.com for details of dining happenings around the island throughout the month.

If you love a smart frock but don’t want to pay high street prices, we’ll probably see you at the BSPCA Thrift Shop’s Designer Sale on May 12. It never ceases to amaze us the things people hand over to charity – the WTM team’s recent hall includes dresses by Karen Millen and BCBG Max Azria – but thank the Lord they do. The doors open at 1pm and only a limited number of people will be allowed in at a time – no kids and no cash. Elbows at the ready girls.

All That Jazz

Celebrate International Jazz Day with a fantastic concert at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. The event, which is part of the Gulf Jazz Festival, will feature the smooth Polish vocals of Ida Zalewska along with pianist Kuba Pluzek, presenting a special programme including well-known standards from legend Billie Holiday. Taking place on May 2, the concert starts at 7pm and is priced at BD20+. Concert and dinner costs BD30+.

A Plethora of Pop-Ups

It seems we may have to move into Words Bookstore Café this month since there’s so much going on. From May 2 till 6 Whisper brand will be there for a pop-up offering artwork, jewellery and jalabiyas, with a portion of sales going to Syrian refugee aid. On May 6 and 7 the space will host its first Alia Vintage Charity Sale, on offshoot of the organisation’s regular sales, it supports the Alia Centre for Early Intervention and offers high-end pieces at bargain prices. Then, from May 9 to 12, it’s the turn of the Zufa Pop-Up Shop featuring beautifully handcrafted home items made by skilled Syrian artisans. Be still our beating credit cards!

Into Light

There are not many things that will see us up before dawn, unless of course we haven’t been to bed yet. But, you might well find us heading to Nurana Island on May 12 for the 4am start of a 5km charity walk. This crack-of-dawn endeavor is raising funds for Darkness Into Light, an organisation that offers help and support to people suffering depression and having suicidal thoughts. There’s no registration, you can just turn up. It costs BD10 to take part and every participant gets a T-shirt. And, even better, well mannered, vaccinated dogs are welcome too.

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Proud First Place Winner of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al-Khalifa Bahraini Woman Empowerment Award for Bahraini Women Empowerment.

news

HOT SHOTS

es the Liz O’Reilly shar r, ai ch ’s or it ed .

From the rest this month piqued her inte ve ha at th gs in th

To the Frozen North

Congrats to May

It was lovely to hear that May AlHaji had managed to complete the Boston Marathon.

The super-fit Bahraini graced our pages earlier this year when she qualified for both London and Boston. And she told me she’d actually come to running and triathlon in 2012, after many years playing tennis. Her words were: “It’s never too late to start.”

Pretty inspirational for those of us who keep promising to get fit, but haven’t quite got there yet.

Women from Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Cyprus were part of an all-female, EuroArabian team which recently undertook a seven-day cross-country ski, over 82km, to reach the North Pole. In doing so, each became the first person from her country to complete the journey. The expedition was organised by British polar explorer Felicity Aston as part of a bid to build dialogue between Western and Arab cultures. There’s no doubt it’s a great achievement for the individual women but, it seems to me, this must have been an extremely costly exercise and I reckon the money could have been better spent 'building dialogue' on the ground in the Middle East.

Why So Long?

Tales of Heartbreak

Later this month Ireland will hold a referendum on whether to liberalise its abortion laws. It’s a touchy subject and one many people have very strong opinions on.

In the run-up, an Irish friend on Facebook shared a page called In Her Shoes – Women of the Eighth. The name refers to the 1983 amendment to the Irish Constitution which virtually outlawed abortion, and the stories shared there are of women who’ve faced the heartbreaking decision to travel to the UK to terminate unwanted pregnancies or, worse, have undergone illegal procedures elsewhere. It’s a stark reminder that, in these supposedly enlightened days, this is still a hugely contentious issue. For some, it’s black and white but these stories illustrate that it’s anything but. I wish everyone would take a look before making up their mind.

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May 2018

I listened to an interview on the radio the other day with Dr Mae Jemison, who became the first African American woman to travel into space on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in September 1992.

The chat was interesting and her achievements have long been celebrated, but one statement that truly struck home with me was that it took too long. Dr Jemison said there were qualified black Americans and women long before 1992, and that’s an issue that still reverberates.

It particularly came to mind when I read a news story that, for the first time, a woman’s statue has been unveiled in London’s Parliament Square. Suffragette Millicent Fawcett joins the ranks of the great and the good, alongside 11 men! The move came after an online campaign and the unveiling was attended by Prime Minister Theresa May. Of course, it’s cause for celebration, but, really, why so long?

On Their Bikes

Yes, it’s another first for the magic kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has seen its first women’s cycling race. Organiser Nadima Abu al-Enein, who set up a cycling group through social media in 2017, said her committee, which is working together with local authorities, had expected 30 participants but that increased to 47 when extra people turned up and, sadly, some women were turned away when the numbers got too large. The event prompted lots of comment on Twitter, some supportive, some not. To me, it seems like cause for celebration – not only are women breaking yet more barriers, they’re getting fit at the same time.

Word of the Month CALLIPYGIAN

this is one we all aspire to, girls – it means having shapely buttocks. www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | pick of the month

A TIMELY INTERVENTION

Perhaps it’s the abundance of sparkling Swarovski crystal or the fact that these watches are a sneak peak at Swarovski’s new autumn-winter collection, either way these dazzling timepieces have got us thinking of Christmas…in April.

Supremely crafted and stunningly pretty, they’ll certainly put your wrist in the spotlight. We’ll be adding them to our Christmas list.

Available soon at Swarovski, City Centre Bahrain 17 179-646.

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eye-catching beauty Get 60 min. CACI non-surgical face-lift with complimentary 30 min. tummy toning from Rimal Spa’s Spring offers Discover CACI - Hollywood celebrities’ favourite choice, to look young without any surgery! CACI stimulates and re-educates muscles, tightening and toning sagging muscles, redefining facial contours, whilst smoothing appearances of fine lines and wrinkles.

BHD 50 for 60 Min. Face Lift, Including 30 Min. Complimentary Tummy Toning For more information, please call: +973 174 600 51 / 52 or e-mail hotel.bahrain.spa@movenpick.com

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FASHION | focus

HERE COMES THE SUN Aside from the damage UV light can do to our eyes and those oh-soattractive furrows caused by squinting in the sun’s bright glare, if we really needed a good excuse to embrace the season’s latest crop of shades, the fact that they are uber-cool should be enough.

We’ve come up with our selection of the season’s hottest shades to help you with your selection.

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Calvin Klein

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo - Fiore Collection

Parfois

Parfois

Michael Kors

Marni at Grand Optics

Mango

Liu Jo

Gucci

Chloé Poppy Heart

Chloé Carlina www.womanthismonth.com

Zara

10 Things to Try This Month Jacquemus

Lanvin

FASHION |essentials

Adorned Ponytail.

Take inspiration from the Chanel, Rochas and Lanvin shows and accessorise your ponytail. You’ll be sporting this style a lot during the hotter months, so play with it!

Material Girl.

Plastic is the new season’s best mate.

It’s found in shoes, handbags and clothing pieces. It might not be comfy, but it’s certainly water resistant!

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Top It. The bra top is an extra element that can be worn with your favourite shirt or jacket. The added sartorial detail will spice up your look.

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H&M

4

Yes, we have pineapples!

They shout summer out loud.

Postcard print.

Your favourite destination beautifully printed on your clothes. Dreamy skirts and dresses are waiting for you!

Weekend Max Mara

Spring and summer collections have arrived in town! Check out what Fernanda Langhammer selected from the catwalks and store racks.

COS

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3

Sunkissed Complexion.

Too much sun can damage your skin, but make-up can do the trick. Add some tinted blush to your cheeks and you will be summer ready!

The Pencil Skirt. This workwear staple is coming out of the office and hitting the streets! Wear your pencil skirt with a T-shirt and trainers to rock up-to-the-minute style.

www.womanthismonth.com

You can never go wrong with tie-dye!

Reinvented Bum Bag. Yes, you read it right, fanny packs are back!

More stylish and practical than ever, they are a must-have item in any seasonal collection.

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Tod's

Valentino

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Michael Kors Collection

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Lipsy

7 Don’t know which bag to choose? Wear them both!

May 2018

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FASHION | trend

Dune

Longchamp

Monsoon

MICHAEL Michel Kors

Boho Chic

Espadrilles are the perfect synthesis of laid-back fashion.

Relax and enjoy the sun.

Charles & Keith

Tory Burch Kenzo

M&Co Cath Kidston

SPRING-SUMMER 2018 FOOTWEAR

By Fernanda Langhammer

There is a popular saying, sometimes credited to Bette Midler and otherwise to Marilyn Monroe that goes: Give a girl the correct shoes and she can conquer the world! Ladies, choose your weapons and get ready for a season more empowered than ever!

Sportmax

Max Mara

Charles & Keith

Lipsy

Mules are the chic version of casual slipons. Go flat for a cool and easygoing look and heeled for ladylike superpower.

Debenhams

Accessorize

Hobbs

Slide into Style

Parfois

Marina Rinaldi

Marks & Spencer Wallis

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May 2018

Next

Zara

Dune London

Mango

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | trend

F&F Karl Lagerfeld

Dune London

Louis Vuitton

Comfy Luxury

Matalan

Debenhams

If brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel can adopt trainers in their collections, why wouldn’t you? Go girl!

Tory Burch

LOEWE Oasis Geox

Chanel

Kenzo

New Look

CH Carolina Herrera

Debenhams

Dune London

Lipsy

Oasis

Oliver Bonas

MSGM

Casadei

Paint Palette

Show off your feet, inspired by a box of colouring pencils. Vibrant sandals in solid colours are all you need for a spirited summer.

Fenty Puma by Rihanna

Aldo

Marks & Spencer

Bershka New Look Evans

www.womanthismonth.com

Office

May 2018

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Fendi

CH Carolina Herrera

Dune London

FASHION | trend

Longchamp

Fall for Flats

Max Mara

Zara

Next

Yull

This season’s flats range from secure and closed comfy types to open fancy flip-flops. The choice is yours!

H&M

Massimo Dutti

Mulberry

Sportmax

New Look

Littlewoods

Mulberry

Alexander McQueen

Dolce & Gabbana

The Heel Truth

Artistic, transparent with a gem or just in an awkward shape. It’s all about the heel!

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Max Mara

Debenhams Prabal Gurung

Marco de Vincenzo

Charles & Keith

Zara

www.womanthismonth.com

www.womanthismonth.com

Bershka

Geox Adam Selman

MICHAEL Michael Kors

Gabriela Hearst

Looking to add a few inches? Go for platforms or flatforms; they will do the trick.

Adam Selman

Feminine Skyscrapers

Charles & Keith

MICHAEL Michael Kors

Zara

Debenhams

FASHION | trend

May 2018

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FASHION | get the look

WE MEAN BUSINESS Office wear shouldn’t be boring and there are plenty of ways to transform your workwear.

Fernanda Langhammer bets on prints to brighten your work days.

shirt, Printed ious, sc n o H&M C -350.

0 1 1 7 1

AUTHENTIC LADYLIKE

Amal Clooney

Inspired by the new season, this composition gives a fresh allure to your busy days. A printed shirt should be mandatory in every working woman's wardrobe. Opt for soft shades such as baby blue, mint and dust pink in subtle motifs to embrace one of the SS 2018 trends. To best finalise the outfit, pair it with a long skirt in ecru or white to get the perfect look. High-heeled sandals and a white handbag are the cherry on top!

Tory Burch

ings, Mango Drop tassel earr .com. an at shop.m go

-heeled Baby blue high s & sandals, Charle 307.

Keith, 17 179-

Hearte db Folli F racelet, o follifoll llie at ie.com .

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t, Ochre long skir i, 17 tt Du o m si as M 172-325.

White handbag, MICHAEL Michael Kors, 17 178-630. www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | get the look

CONTEMPORARY BOSS

, Golden earrings 6.

78 917 Accessorize, 17

Dresses are the most feminine clothing pieces and they can be very welcome in the office environment. Long shirt robes are perfect for the workplace, they adjust to any body shape and if you have a draped detail in front, just like this piece from Koton, it will help disguise the waist area. Choose a colourful pattern and if the occasion requires, carry a white blazer to create a perfect combo. Pick a trendy mule and climb your steps to success!

Flower w atch, P 17 178-05 arfois 4.

dress, Printed 1797 1 Koton, 015.

GIRLY CAREER MAKER

Dondup

eved ff sle 61. u p k 0-3 pin Dust COS 17 11 top,

Wide legged trousers are perfect bottoms to any workwear attire.

Revolutionise the way you wear them by teaming with a puffsleeved top, they are a basic top with an eye-catching twist.

Choosing an interesting pattern and updated colours help you find the key to modernise this staple item. Platform sandals and a floral handbag place you right in spring and summer mood.

als, Dune Platform sand 6-215.

68 16 London,

Sarah Paulson

y,

Red sung las Mara, 17 ses, Max 131-015.

k Golden and blac ry To , et el brac 560.

Burch, 17 179-

Wide-legged printe d trousers, Zara, 17 110-369.

Floral ha ndbag at mulbe , Mulberry rry.com.

www.womanthismonth.com

White blazer, Lips 17 179-385.

Black handbag, Dune London, 16 686-215.

Strapped black mul e, Marina Rinaldi, 17 535-028.

May 2018

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FASHION | interview

BEAUTY IN MODESTY

Mobeena Inam puts a fresh, fashionable spin on the abaya, and speaks to Behnaz Sanjana about her take on the quintessentially Islamic garment.

W

hen she moved to Bahrain nine years ago, Mobeena was fascinated by the beauty and femininity of the abaya. “I started to wear one to the mosque for Friday prayers, and I felt comfortable and liberated in the long, flowing garment,” she says. “As a Muslim woman, I’m on a journey of religious learning and have begun to be more in tune with the spiritual side of the faith that defines me. The Holy Qur’an instructs women to lower an outer garment over their bosoms and, as I felt more conscious of that rule, I realised that an outer garment could be beautiful and colourful, not necessarily plain and black.”

Her belief in the importance of embracing the culture one lives in led the Australian national to design abayas for her mother and herself. “My initial designs were pastelcoloured and we frequently got asked which designer’s work they were, to which I just used to chuckle self consciously. The biggest compliment was when a relative from Khobar requested me to design one for his wife,” says Mobeena.

Seeing her designs worn by ladies on the American naval base and one of Bahrain’s royal family, Mobeena decided to take the leap and formally launch her own label – Mobayas.

The name reflects the idea of ‘Mobeena’s

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modern abayas’ and has recently concluded its first solo exhibition. Mobeena says: “Putting up an exhibition is a lot of hard work.

You cannot fully fathom what something’s all about unless you do it yourself. I now understand why designers charge the prices they do. The whole process of designing, sourcing materials and then putting your ideas into execution is a very taxing activity.”

With a background in tourism and consulting in educational training, Mobeena had never imagined she’d be sketching designs. “I studied entrepreneurship at Harvard Business School and am now putting the theory into practice in running my business,” she says.

“I’m a perpetual learner; I can be a student all my life. Launching Mobayas has been a new learning curve and an outlet to my feminine, creative, cultural side.”

She sources most of her fabric from Bahrain and her collection flaunts fine materials such as delicate French chiffon, luscious velvet, raw silk, jute cotton, jersey, crepe, silk organza and cashmere. The pieces bear gorgeous embellishments, embroidery, Arabic calligraphy, lace additions, sequins or contemporary digital prints. “Some Mobayas – as I like to call them – also have crosscultural influences,” she says, showing off pleats of the Indian saree at the sides of one of her creations.

Coco Chanel’s wisdom, style and elegance inspire Mobeena, and the tag on every Mobaya bears the couturier’s quotes as a keepsake for its buyer.

Mobeena says: “The Mobaya is an evolved, international garment, suitable for the woman on the go. It can immediately transform your look from casual to elegant and ready for an evening out, while keeping the idea of modest dressing intact.”

An intrepid traveller herself, some of Mobeena’s pieces are perfect for the jet-set lady – they look fashionable, can be drip-dried and need no ironing. Some have sleeves layered with different textures or slit sleeves with a fabric underlay to enable the wearer to show off the latest fashion. She has used her creativity to turn a Baluchi shawl into a long jacket – the beauty of the garment remains, sans any cumbersomeness.

Part of the proceeds from the sales from her recent exhibition went to Omneyat, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals with autism. Mobeena, who likes to think of herself as a citizen of the world, aspires to take the Mobaya overseas. “I intend to promote it as Bahraini fashion and for people to discover the classy abaya, which is nothing short of international standards.”

Mobeena’s designs can be viewed on her Instagram @mobayas. www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Thai Street Food Festival

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel launched its Thai Street Food Festival at an exclusive media dinner at Soie restaurant prepared by chef Arnan Sinsanwit and chef Supparat.

Management and guests

Hana & Pranee

Liz, Pranee & Alison

Farah & Thomas

Women Power Summit A press conference was held for the first ever Women Power Summit, powered by Imitiaz for Her, at Shaikh Isa Cultural Centre.

Rahma, Noor & Fatema

Hassan, Omran & Mohammed

www.womanthismonth.com

Sarah & Afrah

Suzy

Eman & Fatema

Leena

May 2018

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FASHION | forward

Sky-High Fashion

Passengers travelling in Etihad’s first class and those staying in The Residence on board the A380 fleet are in for a treat. The airline has teamed up with Emirati brand A Friend of Mine by Xpoze to launch an exclusive luxury loungewear line for its favoured guests.

Made of anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic Modal, the pieces have done away with unnecessary stitching and embellishments to offer stylish but simple comfort based on traditional Arabic dress. The material is also crease-resistant and breathable and comes in a selection of earthy colours.

BIG NAMES IN SAUDI Big name designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier showed alongside regional favourites like Arwa al-Banawi (pictured) at Saudi Arabia’s first fashion week. The event, held in Riyadh, got under way two weeks later than planned due to logistical problems and visa issues for travelling models and designers. But, not surprisingly, it attracted an enthusiastic, allfemale audience. And, though there were some restrictions on what could be shown, with designers briefed to avoid cleavage and make sure legs were covered above the knee, there was also a strong message of empowerment with the inclusion of women’s business suits. A second fashion week is planned for Riyadh in the autumn.

E G A T S BACK

S S A P

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trending a l, o o c 's t a h w Our take on fashionable

EQUALITY AT CANNES

Race to Equality will be the theme of this year’s Fashion For Relief charity gala focusing on education, health and culture. The news was announced by organiser Naomi Campbell, who will, as always, enlist her star pals to offer their support. Taking place alongside the Cannes Film Festival, the event has raised millions since its launch in 2005.

Save the Children and Time’s Up will be amongst the charities benefiting this year and guests will enjoy the Fashion For Relief show, accompanied by a special live music performance, a gala dinner and live auction.

Modest Beauty

Dubai-born modest fashion brand, Desert Cove, which is soon to launch in Bahrain, has caught the attention of the Miss Muslimah Pageant USA, North America’s most anticipated and revolutionary pageant for Muslim women. Designed by Maghrib Abdush-Shahid to break the preconceived ideas about Muslim women, the pageant focuses on intelligence, spirituality and inner beauty.

A deal between Maghrib and Mosika Zeid, of Desert Cove, will see the brand to become the official fashion sponsor for this year’s pageant taking place in Columbus, Ohio, on June 30. The sponsorship is part of Desert Cove’s ongoing commitment to building a community of strong, inspirational young Muslim women. And the founders hope to bring the contest to Dubai in the future.

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www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | forward

SUSTAINABLE AMBITION

Spanish international fashion retailer, Mango, has joined the Better Cotton Initiative and has set itself the target of using 50 per cent sustainably sourced cotton by 2022. By joining this initiative, the company undertakes to support good practices within the cotton sector and to promote the procurement of more sustainably-grown cotton.

The third Mango Committed collection has launched as part of the Take Action programme, which aims to increase the use of sustainable fabrics and contribute to a circular economy model The goal of the Better Cotton Initiative is to transform the global production of cotton, based on the three pillars of sustainability: the environmental, social and economic aspects, and to succeed in making Better Cotton a mainstream commodity. Through the Better Cotton Initiative and its partners, farmers receive training on how to use water efficiently, care for the health of the soil and natural habitats, reduce use of the most harmful chemicals and apply decent work principles.

Khalid Aldosari, Dr Majid bin Ali Alnuaimi & Dr Mazin Ali Jumaah

Fashion Film Fun

Look out for what’s shaping up to be the fashion film of the summer. If the trailer for Crazy Rich Asians is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat.

Based on the 2013 book of the same name, it tells the story of an American woman who visits her super-rich boyfriend’s family in Singapore. It’s not scheduled for release until August but it’s already creating excitement and there’s even talk that it might unseat Ocean’s 8, the all-female spin-off of Steven Soderbergh's The Oceans Trilogy, which features big-name leading ladies wearing some seriously good threads.

Norhan, Dr Vivien & Dr Mrinalini

Royal University for Women held its second conference on Women and Society in Women and Society Conference The collaboration with Gulf Education at its premises.

Dr Haya, Dr Muna, Dr Farzana & Hanan

www.womanthismonth.com

Sharifa & David

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S

This trend tells us to be creative without looking odd.

Pair checks, flowers and polka-dots wisely. The best way of doing it is by going for a unified colour scheme.

Brands such as Carven, Chloe, Miu Miu and Paul & Joe can give you some hints.

Beinspired by Balenciaga’s handbag and consider a raincoat to complement your own carrier. It might rain at the end of the day, it might not (most probably not in our case), but you will certainly look stylish.

May 2018

Simone Rocha

Cath Kidston

Laura Ashley

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Debenhams

Balenciaga

Fendi

pring and summer this year are going to be spent on the Dorset coast, in England, with the influence of its countryside girls and sandy-rocky beaches. Flowers, checks, lace, farm-animal prints, sandals worn with socks and raincoats get together to best represent the concept. Simple and comforting looks with a touch of quirky is what you will be aiming for. Countryside girls are masters at mixing and matching prints and colours; learn from them!

Chloe

ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE

Miu Miu

LOEWE

Marni

Paul & Joe

FASHION | moodboard

www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | empowerment

SISTERS DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made... It shouldn't be that women are the exception." — Ruth Bader Ginsburg

WOMEN IN BAHRAIN The Supreme Council for Women, Bahrain’s advisory body to the government on women’s issues, was established in 2001. It is chaired by Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Under the King’s political reforms women gained the right to vote and stand as candidates in national elections after the constitution was amended in 2002.

No women were elected in the first instance but six were later appointed to the Shura

www.womanthismonth.com

The topic of women’s empowerment is very much in the news at the moment. We have the “Me Too” movement, sparked by sexual harassment and assault in Hollywood, that swiftly progressed to “Time’s Up” which saw wealthy and privileged women coming together to pledge support, finance and, more importantly, a voice to women at the lower end of the power spectrum.

Across the causeway in Saudi Arabia, it is a time of momentous change. Women will soon be able to drive, a basic freedom they have been demanding for years, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has very publicly stated that the decision to cover should be the woman’s own, rather than dictated by society.

Here, in Bahrain, women’s empowerment is also on the agenda with both Bahrainis and expats working to close the gender gap. For this special feature we spoke to women across the board and also highlight organisations which are at the forefront of the push for equality and social change, from the charity-conscious St Christopher’s School mums to the brave boxer babes, who’ll be getting in the ring to challenge a sporting stereotype.

We’ve also partnered with Bahrain’s inaugural Women Power Summit, which is bringing together a vast range of inspiring female speakers who’ll take part in discussions, seminars and workshops during a two-day event which will give 500-plus attendees the chance to pitch business ideas, learn how to get their own projects off the ground and meet potential mentors. This feature includes highlights of the programme and can find out more on the activities at www.womenpower-summit.com

Council, Parliament’s upper chamber.

In 2004, Dr Nada Haffadh became the Kingdom’s first female minister.

In 2005, Dr Fatima Albalooshi, the second woman minister, was appointed to the cabinet.

The Royal University for Women – the first university in the Kingdom dedicated solely to women’s education, was established in 2005.

In April 2005, Shura member Alees Samaan became the first woman to chair a parliamentary session in the Arab world

when she chaired the Shura Council.

In June 2006, Bahrain was elected head of the United Nations General Assembly and appointed Shaikha Haya bint Rashed Al Khalifa to the role of assembly president – the first Middle Eastern woman and only the third woman in history to hold the position.

Houda Ezra Ebrahim Nonoo served as Bahraini Ambassador to the US from 2008 to 2013 – the first Jewish person and the third woman to be appointed ambassador by the Kingdom .

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showcase BAHRAIN AIRPORT SERVICES

WOMEN ON THE WING Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) is going the extra mile to empower its female employees. Liz O’Reilly spoke to two of them to find out the details.

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adia Bouslama, PR and marketing manager, and Hana Abdulwahed Abdulla Ali, senior manager human capital, are relative newcomers to the company, having joined within the last 18 months. However, they are both extremely proud of what BAS is doing in terms of women’s development.

Hana explains: “Of our total 1,800 staff, we have 174 females and 20 of those are at managerial level. The strategy is to significantly increase that number, and we’re getting there. The female managers are in all areas of the company – engineering, aircraft dispatch and across the divisions.”

Nadia adds: “We have the first Bahraini female head-set operator [the coordinator between the captain and the push back driver] and also the first female supervisor on the customer service check-in counter.”

How this level of conspicuous female success affects other staff is clear, with Nadia continuing: “What we are trying to show is that the opportunity is there – women can take on the responsibilities and BAS is keen to empower them through training.”

Hana adds: “For example, in their HR evaluations, we make sure they know the investment in training is available, empowering them to have the confidence to apply for more senior positions.”

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And both cite the example of the recent chef competition in which junior female staff in the company’s extensive catering division had the chance to win professional chef training over a six-month period, while still receiving salary from their regular jobs.

“This takes the risk out of the situation for them,” says Nadia. “Often women are concerned about taking risks because they may be supporting their families, so they don’t put themselves forward. So, to offer them this opportunity without the risk of losing their regular salary was a huge incentive.”

The push for women’s empowerment comes from the top, with CEO Salman Saleh AlMahmeed both extremely keen and involved, so much so that the company is sending 10 of its female employees, particularly those who are ready for further development, to the inaugural Women Power Summit, taking place this month.

“This is a really good opportunity for them,” says Nadia. “They will be at the event for both days and there are great opportunities for learning and skills development and networking.”

Nadia herself will be at the summit as a volunteer, presenting on personal branding and also moderating a discussion panel.

“This is something I’m happy to do; I am passionate about women’s empowerment and development. My dream would be to have an orphanage where I could raise young girls to help them realise their full potential.”

And both she and Hana are great examples to their colleagues. Hana is a mum of five, her youngest with special needs, but she has not let motherhood affect her 25-year career and is hugely keen for other women to know it is possible.

The Bahraini national says: “I have had great support, both from my mum and my husband; we split everything and work together. I was also very lucky in my earlier career to be supported by Her Royal Highness Shaikha Sabeeka, [Wife of His Majesty the King of Bahrain] when I worked with Shaikh Nasser’s company Maalem. So, I really want to do everything I can to help other women have the same opportunities.”

And Nadia, who is mum to two girls, concludes: “Sometimes I feel guilty that I don’t spend enough time with them, particularly when it’s very busy at work and I’m putting in long hours. But, when I say that to my husband, he says ‘You’re empowering them by giving them an example of a strong independent woman – that’s the very best you can do for them.’” www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Sattam, Jude & Peter

Sierra & Mike

Rob & Monika

Gallery organised an art exhibition, Rhythm of Life by Peter Rushton, at its premises at the InTouch Integrated Art Exhibition InTouch Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Center in Janabiya.

GROUND HANDLING GROUND HANDLING S E R V I C ES P ER O V IVCI E D EPRR O V I D E R Frances, Catherine & Sarah

Andy & Rosie

Julia & Digby

GROUND HANDLING SERVICE PROVIDER

Commercial Department Commercial Department T: +973 17 321 703 T: +973 17 321 706 E: malsaati@bas.com.bh

T: +973 17 321 703 T: +973 17 321 706 E: malsaati@bas.com.bh

www.bas.com.bh

www.bas.com.bh

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2018

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showcase DR MURAT WOMEN’S CLINIC

YOUR HEALTH IN YOUR HANDS

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woman wears many hats – that of a nurturer, a partner, a homemaker and career maven. Often, niggling problems of the female anatomy are pushed to the back of the mind in the busy pace of life, to turn up as serious health issues later. The Dr Murat Women’s Clinic in Salmaniya is one place women can have their gender-specific conditions diagnosed and successfully treated, and come away with the knowledge of how best to take care of their bodies.

Founder, Dr Murat Koc, is a German-Turkish national who held top positions at renowned cancer centres and hospitals in Germany before he came to Bahrain in 2012. He is a pioneer of bringing sophistication to women’s healthcare.

“I have been in the field of treating women’s disorders for the last 18 years,” says Dr Murat.

“I started off in the field of gynaecology and obstetrics, and then veered into many sub-specialities, including breast and gynaecological oncology, and urogynaecology [problems associated with the dysfunction of the pelvic floor and bladder].”

He has acquired all his many certifications from Germany, and there are certain complex operations that are carried out only by him in Bahrain. His work is prolific; he performs the most number of advanced minimally invasive surgeries every year, the count reaching 1,000 cases last year. This annual number, however, is small compared to the number of procedures that have previously been skilfully undertaken by him at well-known, large-scale hospitals back in Germany.

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At Dr Murat Women’s Clinic, the outlook is all about empowering women to take control of their wellbeing with comprehensive information, modern treatment plans and excellent aftercare, finds Behnaz Sanjana.

Dr Murat specialises in minimally invasive surgeries, also known as laparascopic procedures, that employ the most modern, innovative methods. He says: “Over 98 per cent of my cases are treated laparoscopically.

The benefits of this technique are many – the surgery involves only small cuts, so patients are not left with big scars. Some of them don’t even need any incision and are day cases. Other advantages include a short hospital stay, very little or no bleeding, and fast recovery time. In an open surgery, one would take three weeks to get back to a normal routine, but our patients are back to regular life in around four days.”

Dr Murat is certified in robotic surgeries (although the practice has not yet come to Bahrain), as well as teaching workshops on the topic of minimally invasive surgery in Europe.

He says: “I demonstrate live surgeries and certify other doctors. I have been the keynote speaker at conferences worldwide, on an array of reproductive health topics.

He applauds women for being proactive and taking care of their health. “Once women are given information and guidance about

cancers affecting females, especially those that do not have visual symptoms, they are quite responsible about keeping tabs on their health. At my clinic, once a lady is treated for a certain disorder, she is further educated about maintaining overall reproductive health and all the essential screenings in the future, to avert other diseases in the long run. So, it’s a lifelong relationship that we are building with our patients. This is also how the clinic’s services are different and modern, compared to those of others,” he says.

Patient satisfaction during and after treatment is one hundred per cent. www.womanthismonth.com

showcase Dr Murat Women’s Clinic facilitates all kinds of genetic testing, radiological diagnostics and laser procedures. “Our advanced ultrasound machines give better images and many viewing options, to get more accurate results.

We have tests that can warn a patient about a possibility of a disease in the future and we can take steps to avoid it – cervical cancer is one such example. Genetic testing is done for detecting carrier diseases in pregnant women, possibility of abnormal development of the foetus, or to explain repeated miscarriages,” he says. He also offers laser procedures for cosmetic gynaecology and conditions like stress incontinence and uterine prolapse.

“Patients are surprised by the ease of these procedures and wonder why they did not seek treatment sooner,” he reveals.

Being accessible and available to his patients at all times is a key factor for having such a large, loyal clientele.

When a woman depends on Dr Murat for her wellbeing, she knows she is in the most capable hands. He has been shortlisted as an accredited ‘Surgeon of Excellence’ on the global scale and is the only internationally board-certified gyno-oncologist in Bahrain, who carries out procedures related to cancers of the reproductive system. As director of gynaecological oncology and consultant for breast cancer at the King Hamad University Hospital, cases from other hospitals are referred to him for his expertise. He is the consultant for obstetrics, gynaecology and gynaecological oncology at the London Breast Care Centre and carries out his surgical operations at Royal Bahrain Hospital and Middle East Hospital.

As an obstetrician, Dr Murat tackles high-risk pregnancies (when there is potential danger to the wellbeing of the baby or mother due to certain complications) and is involved with the patients throughout their gestation to the delivery and even after.

He says: “At my clinic, patients are given all the information, not just part of it. We explain their condition to them in detail and then lay out all their options before them. We help them to make the right decisions for themselves and guide them every step of the way. For someone who is undergoing a health scare, a first-time or a complicated pregnancy, that kind of information and support is priceless. They are given reading material to better understand their situation. We empower them with awareness and confidence to deal with their problems and overcome them, no matter how severe or complicated the case. We care about a woman’s health so that she can focus on living her life to the fullest.”

Dr Murat Women’s Clinic is located at Al Khaleej Polyclinic, Salmaniya.

Call: 17 230-238 or 17 276-677, WhatsApp 39 539-368, visit www. drmurat-womensclinic.com, or follow @drmuratwomensclinic on Instagram and @drmuratwomensclinic on Facebook. www.womanthismonth.com

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showcase BAHRAIN JEWELLERY CENTRE

BATTLING TRADITION Dina Shirazi, of Bahrain Jewellery Centre, tells George Middleton how determination helped her challenge male domination and took her from the shop floor to the boardroom.

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ow an executive board member overseeing day to day management of the business, things were very different when she joined the family firm back in 1992. She explains: “My father was not keen on having a woman working in the store. There were three men and they ran the show.

“There was certainly resistance. But I’m stubborn and it was what I wanted!

“Basically, in the old days it was a man’s world and men dealt with men. It was uncomfortable for a woman to walk into that environment; we didn’t have much of a female clientele.

That all changed when I started the corner store in the Sheraton. We introduced more daily-wear jewellery, not the sets that they used to buy. We had individual pieces and more brands. Tiffany and Co was one of the first companies in there and then we started with home accessories, so the whole identity of the store changed.

“So, while the men still went to the main store, BJC, women started coming to me, so we opened the doors up a little bit more and

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made it a more women-friendly environment.

Whereas, before, men would go to the store and take things home to show their family, now women themselves are buying. That’s the shift, women are walking in. There are a few men who come and surprise their women, but not as much as they used to.

“I must say that, initially, even women were resistant to dealing with female sales staff. But times have changed; I think you just have to give people a chance.”

Dina says a big part of her role is gauging her clientele. She explains: “I enjoy dealing with people and I enjoy buying, and buying specifically, because you really need to know your clientele to be able to buy a piece. You probably pre-purchase the item thinking that so and so will buy it, and they do; so you really need to know your clientele.”

How much of it is psychology and how much salesmanship? “I think it’s pretty much equal,” says Dina. “But psychology plays a big role and I noticed that very much at the beginning because women enjoyed coming

and viewing, chatting, having tea and discussing life.”

And, of the role of fashion trends in the business? Despite her strong feeling that “Jewellery is Forever”, Dina acknowledges that the trade has to adapt to the market, saying: “There was a time that we only had yellow gold, then people wanted white gold.

So, we had to buy an inventory of white gold.

Now people want pink gold. So, what happens is, yes, you do sell but you do have a back stock also of items. But then it’s jewellery, and jewellery is forever. If I bought a piece in 1990, the same piece today will have almost doubled in price – so, you keep what you have.

“I definitely believe that you should buy things you can wear every day, not things to put away in the safe. Enjoy your jewellery, things that you can hand down to your daughters. I would definitely say my advice would be jewellery is forever, it can be an heirloom but you should also be able to wear it.” www.womanthismonth.com

showcase BBK

CLOSING THE GENDER GAP

BBK (Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait) is one organisation that is taking women’s development very seriously.

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BK was established on 1971 and started its operations in 1972. It is a commercial bank operating in Bahrain and has overseas branches such as Kuwait and India with two representative offices located in the UAE and Turkey. BBK provides a full range of lending, deposit, treasury and investment services to various sectors of the domestic and regional as well as international markets, using stateof-the-art technology. It plays a major role in financing infrastructural and industrial projects, creating products and services that cater to the needs of individuals, investors, businesses, corporations and the government.

BBK currently has 227 females out of 609 employees, representing 37 per cent of the workforce. In the last five years, the organisation has noticed a large increase in the total number of female employees, from 197 — growth of 15 per cent) — in Bahrain operations only.

As part of the many initiatives introduced in support of women’s empowerment, BBK has in place a policy where every effort is made by management to identify and develop high-potential female employees in order to increase the number of women in mid to senior management level positions.

The bank currently has four female senior managers in comparison to just one in 2014.

Plans to develop female workers include: • Accelerate their training plans.

• Put women on advanced leadership and executive programmes.

• Encourage them to pursue a career path through participating in mentoring and coaching programmes.

• Create a flexible working environment that supports learning and development and the advancement of female employees.

The bank has established a Women’s

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In recognition of its work in women’s development, BBK took first place in the HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa Bahraini Woman Empowerment Award, in its fifth edition.

BBK’s CEO, Reyadh Yousif Sater, received the award at a ceremony in November marking a significant milestone in the bank’s history and underscoring the success of its women’s empowerment policy, a general framework endorsed by the board of directors and designed to ensure equal opportunities for both men and women.

Empowerment Committee with the sole purpose of establishing a clear vision and set of guidelines for the BBK Group for the development of services, policies, procedures and practices that promote gender equality and empower women internally and externally.

As part of the many developmental plans/ initiatives, the bank is committed to: • Affirm high-level support and direct top-level policies for gender equality and women’s empowerment.

• Pay equal remuneration, including benefits, for work of equal value.

• Ensure that workplace policies and practices are free from gender-based discrimination.

• Assure sufficient participation of women in decision-making and governance at all levels and across all business by proactively recruiting and appointing women to managerial and executive positions, including the board of directors.

• Create internal mechanisms designed to identify and develop

potential women managers, and to accelerate their development through ‘fast track’ programmes until gender-balance in senior management is achieved.

• Invest in workplace policies and programmes that open avenues for advancement of women at all levels and across all business areas by ensuring equal access to all bank-supported education and training programmes.

• Expand business relationships with womenowned enterprises, including small businesses and women entrepreneurs.

• Respect the dignity of women in all marketing materials and adopt a comprehensive policy for the positive portrayal of women in diverse roles in corporate sponsored media, advertising and communications.

Furthermore, the bank has introduced several policies in support of women’s empowerment such as flexible working arrangements, half-day leave to support/balance personal commitments, annual assessment of female employees’ issues (airing-out sessions) and light duty during pregnancy.

And there is also a Women’s Empowerment Yearly Chief Executive Award that encourages employees to adopt practices that empower women staff members.

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showcase THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

RISING AMBITION

The Ritz-Carlton’s Amanda Williams has her eye firmly on the long term since finding her niche after an early career in the arts.

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manda, an American, is the associate director of publication relations (PR) at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain and is loving island life, having arrived just six months ago from Florida where she looked after the public relations and marketing for the two RitzCarlton Miami Beach resorts.

But hospitality was not always her calling.

Her background and study were in Asian and Islamic art and she taught English in Cairo before spending eight years with the world-famous Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. A move into design PR followed before she finally realised a long-held ambition to join The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. She says: “It was one of my dreams to work for this company. I had studied its motto – ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen – the whole way of genuine care and service to our guests and the community really resonated with me.

“At the time, almost four years ago now, The Ritz-Carlton had begun to rebrand itself and from that came a pull through of looking at guest experiences and our service values through a more experimental and artistic lens, encouraging brand photography and marketing materials to portray more the artful details and the invaluable memories one has when visiting one of our properties – it was with this new brand direction that I felt my experience in the arts and design world could really contribute.

“That was my entry to the company, despite never working in hospitality before. The RitzCarlton ladies and gentlemen are said to have the ‘blue blood’ within them by really living the brand’s core values day in and day out and I really feel part of that.”

Amanda is looking forward to experiencing her first Ramadan in the Kingdom and is quick to share the news that The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, will hold its Holy Month events in a brand-new tent by renowned designer and scenographer Ammar Basheir, featuring emerald marble tables, velvet and leather furnishings and hundreds of hand-crafted Moroccan lamps. It will be situated at the Villa Gazebo lawn, on the far side of the property from where the tent normally stands, and will have almost double the capacity of previous years.

And, though she has only just arrived, this ambitious woman is already planning for the future, with her sights set on a career in the

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company’s corporate office within the next few years.

On the role of women within the organisation, she says The Ritz-Carlton is taking a strong stance on encouraging more women into leadership roles. “In Miami, we had our first female hotel manager while I was there, which was inspiring. In the US, the company had begun conducting focus groups with women leaders to see ways of encouraging more female leadership within the company.

“There is also a big focus on empowerment through training and encouraging women to take on more responsibility and truly grow in their careers.”

In fact, Marriott, the Ritz-Carlton’s parent company, has a long-standing history of valuing diversity and inclusion. It was the first hospitality company to establish a

formal diversity and inclusion programme nearly 30 years ago. Its Women’s Leadership Development Initiative, launched in 1999, is intended to increase the presence of women in the highest levels of management and in other key decision-making positions.

Currently, eight women lead Marriott international divisions with revenue greater than USD100 million, and women comprise 50 per cent of the company’s executive leadership team.

Earlier this year Marriott’s executive vice president and Global CCO, Stephanie Linnartz, was named to the inaugural Great Place to Work for All Leadership Awards list. The award recognises leaders responsible for business and workplace strategy that delivers better business results while creating a great workplace for all. www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | empowerment

BUZZING TO THE FINISH LINE

Behnaz Sanjana catches up with Sarah Al-Sammak, who has made a mark for herself in the international competitive cycling arena.

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t all started in Canada, where Sarah lived for a short while as a teenager in 1999.

“I fell in love with cycling, riding along the roads with my brother,” she says. “And the way cyclists are respected by motorists on the roads there is remarkable.”

On returning to Bahrain, Sarah began riding around Awali and gradually started exploring the Kingdom's roads with her cycling group.

“Back then, I faced hurdles like not easily

www.womanthismonth.com

finding the right attire. It was difficult to find clothing made of breathable material, that would cover me up at the same time.

And a suitable headscarf was a whole other challenge,” she remembers.

Sarah reluctantly participated in her first cycling competition on her 22nd birthday, landing up on the podium that day. She has since ridden on four continents and won 15 medals.

On ‘the Bee’, her beloved yellow and black bike, sponsored by Skate Shack, Sarah has had many interesting experiences on the road – some good, others less so. “People would take photos, some because they were proud of me as a hijabi woman cycling around town, and others not so much,” she explains. But she took it all in her stride.

“I have been participating in the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge for a few years now, which is a 92km race around Dubai.

Last year, I qualified for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship in Varese, Italy, which will take place next August,” says the first and only Bahraini female to qualify for this highly competitive international race.

Sarah is not unfamiliar with Italy’s daunting terrain, having been the only Arab woman participating in the Maratona dles Dolomites last year. “Around 9,000 cyclists are selected from around the world for this event, which takes place over the Italian Alps. It was a very challenging route, and I’m happy I managed to complete it,” she says.

She admits to feeling nervous at the start of any race, but the exhilarating rush of adrenaline drives her to the finish. “When you see thousands of cyclists push off together, it’s the most amazing feeling,” she says.

Along her journey, Sarah realised that there was no encouragement in Bahrain for young girls to take up cycling. She explains: “Girls get intimidated looking at my road bike. I cofounded CyclingBees, a girls-only group for all

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FEATURE | empowerment for cycle sport in Great Britain. She says: “I teach them how to balance, safety rules, riding techniques and being prepared for the road.” The course is two days long, and she trains around 15-20 girls every month.

Sarah is grateful for the support from her parents, in-laws and restaurateur husband, who accompanied her with their toddler daughter to Italy when she rode in the Maratona dles Dolomites.

Going forward, Sarah plans to open a home for CyclingBees. “It’s going to have a turbo cycling station, café and lots of events taking place,” she reveals.

levels of cyclists to enjoy fun rides together.

We’ve grown from five to 25 girls across all ages.” And one of them well into her 50s!

The ladies get together on Saturday mornings to ride in various areas of the island. There is no membership fee, and someone who doesn’t own a bicycle can rent an easy-to-ride hybrid bike for a small charge.

“An escort car moves along with us in case somebody wants a break. Water and first aid are also provided. Nobody needs to worry

about flat tires or being left behind. For some girls, it’s their only physical activity and is greatly beneficial for them,” says Sarah. The CyclingBees privilege card gives the girls discounts at up to 25 outlets around Bahrain, including sports retailers, gyms, restaurants and cafés, and more.

Bikeability is another of Sarah’s initiatives to coach girls who want to learn to ride a bicycle, for which she has attained certification from British Cycling, the national governing body

showcase

K HOTEL

A WOMEN-CENTRIC WORKPLACE Besides terrific guest services, the K Hotel prides itself on its exceptional female staff.

T

he K Hotel’s head of human resources, training and development, Donna Asistio, is the most senior lady amongst the staff. “21.64 per cent of our staff is female,” she says. “This figure will increase to 25 per cent by the end of 2018, with the requirement of hiring more women for customer service roles.”

Donna, who is the only female in the senior management team, says the organisation has four ladies in junior management positions, one of whom is being groomed to take on the role of department head in the coming months. The hotel’s career development

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May 2018

initiatives are open to both genders, with specific job positions aimed to prioritise women candidates for the exceptional skills they possess and the nature of the job they naturally excel in.

Donna believes that more women should be considered to take on leadership roles. She says: “We are very fortunate that Bahrain stands for women’s empowerment. With the support of our general manager, Volker Mandlowsky, the K Hotel will soon have healthy, balanced leadership, wherein men and women are equally seated. This is possible through our Career Development

Programme, which trailblazed in 2016.”

The hotel creates a work environment that is non-discriminative and offers opportunities irrespective of gender, race, age or religion.

The efforts of female associates are acknowledged and appreciated at every opportunity. Donna maintains that it’s time for the world to discard the gender stereotypes that have been prevalent for thousands of years and realise that women are successfully breaking through typecasts.

“If men shared the reins with women, the world would be in a better state,” she says.

Call: 17 360-000. www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | empowerment

ands Helping H Nancy h&

by Anise

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS The Ladies Charity Breakfast is a fundraising initiative that has quintupled in size in just four years. Liz O’Reilly chatted to founders Aniseh Vadiee and Nancy Assi to learn about their inspiration and plans for this year’s event.

Aniseh and Nancy - and pictures from last year's event.

T

he breakfast started in 2015 when the two working mums decided to raise some Ramadan funds for the security guards at St Christopher’s School, where both their children are pupils.

Lebanese-Bahraini, Nancy, explains: “Ramadan is a time for giving and the guards are great; they don’t earn much but they do a great job. They go beyond their duties and all the kids love them; in fact, one of them is soon retiring and my son and his classmates had a collection for him out of their pocket money!”

Aniseh, a Bahraini national, adds: “The event is run under the umbrella of the school, but the organisation is down to us. And, as well as the security guards, we also support local children’s societies for those with cancer, autism and Down syndrome and orphans.

“In the first year, we had around 100 people attending. Last year it had grown to 500!”

The event takes place at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, Seef Area on Thursday, May 10,

www.womanthismonth.com

from 9am to 1pm and includes a sumptuous breakfast buffet and a chance to meet up and socialise. Tickets are priced at BD15 in advance or BD20 at the door. Cash raised from ticket sales and raffles goes to support the school guards, while sponsorship funding goes towards the local children’s charities.

Each year, the two women come up with something different, and this year’s breakfast theme will include a fashion show featuring +973 Artisanat Gallery as well as a Fashion Market bazaar with 30 confirmed vendors offering clothing and accessories, jewellery and various other women’s items.

The event’s success has grown so much that, this year, the United Nations local office has issued a statement of support for its work in supporting children’s development and UN resident coordinator and United Nations Development Programme representative, Dr Amin El Sharkawi, will be the keynote speaker.

Organisation falls squarely on the two women,

who have been working on the project for several months and, with the amount raised growing with each event, Aniseh is hopeful that 2018 will be a bumper year. She says: “We’ve already reached beyond our expectations in sponsorship, so we’re hoping to, at least, double that.”

Nancy concludes: “To be honest, it’s a lot of work and we are both working mums, but we wanted to be able to give something back to our community. Each time we feel a great sense of achievement and satisfaction and we’re so glad to receive so much support.”

Tickets are available from the St Christopher’s School reception. For information on sponsorship call 33 831-919.

May 2018

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FEATURE | empowerment

READY TO RUMBLE

d Liz O’Reilly Fight Night 4 is coming an be getting will spoke to six women who stereotype of in the ring to shatter the boxing as a men’s sport.

W

alking through the door at Lift Strength and Conditioning Centre, also home to Bahrain Boxing Club, it’s exactly what you would expect of a fighters’ hangout. A bunch of people on the floor in a boot camp class doing crunches, others shadow boxing with the rows of punch bags, and still others waiting to smack the hell out of an electronic punching machine.

The music doesn’t drown out the sound of leather on leather and there’s a fair amount of grunting. The ring in the corner is the arena for a sparring session, coaches at the side offering encouragement and ensuring that Queensberry Rules are obeyed – as demanded by a hand-written chalkboard at the entrance.

But, what is unusual about this place is that it’s a mixed crowd. There are women in the boot camp and at the punching bags!

Ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes; working out, hitting the bags; and in the ring – here, at least, there is no gender gap.

The gym runs regular black-tie fight nights. The

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next one is coming up at the Crowne Plaza on May 3 and Leanne Dismore, 38, Ragad Alnaimi, 23, Manal Al Saraf, 40, Hind Ahmed, 27, Janice Christie, 41, and — the baby of the bunch — 16-year-old Yasmine Abuhamad will be on the bill alongside their male counterparts.

Most are newcomers to the sport. In fact, though some have a little previous experience, all have been boxing at Lift for less than a year. So, what inspires them to take their lives in their gloves and slug it out in front an eager crowd?

Hind immediately pipes up: “It’s cheaper than therapy!” This accountant and food blogger adds: “I’ve tried all sorts of sports, but this is the best. But, I have to admit, I’m quite a girly girl. The first time I got hit, I fell down and cried – but look at me now!”

Janice and Leanne regularly train together and decided to give it a go after attending Fight Night 3. Janice says: “We just looked at each other and said ‘We can do that.’ I think, for me, it was influenced by turning 40 last year and looking for a new challenge. This has certainly been that.

“We usually train with bags and sparring pads [where another person holds the pad for the fighter to hit but there’s no physical contact], so I was a bit unsure that I could actually take being hit. I asked one of our trainers to get in the ring and knock me about a bit; it was initially a bit scary but now I’m fine.”

Leanne adds: “I www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | empowerment want to be able to say I set myself a challenge and achieved it – to come out the other side.

In training, these girls have been brilliant, so supportive and I love the hard work. Even if you’ve had a tough day, you come here and work it out and always go home feeling better.

“My family have been a bit concerned; they’re worried about what will happen if I get hurt, since I am here by myself. But, I tell them we’re like a family and they are still supportive and proud.”

Ragad’s sporty family are also supportive.

Her sister is a CrossFit trainer and her dad’s into soccer. She, herself, took up boxing with Rumble Fit in New York and couldn’t wait to get back into action on her return to Bahrain.

Yasmine initially took up boxing alongside her brother, who has since moved on to basketball. She says: “At first my mum was like: ‘Why do you want to do that? It’s not a sport for girls.’ But she can see that I enjoy it and I’m improving all the time.”

And Manal adds that her extremely proud sons are also joining in. The auditor actually took part in Fight Night 3, having only been boxing for a few months at the time. She says: “I wanted to try something new and this is not just another form of exercise, it’s about power and impact.”

All the women say they have seen a big improvement in their fitness, and Manal adds: “It’s also great for your overall confidence; not just in your own strength but in your dayto-day life.”

Summing up what they hope to gain from taking part in Fight Night, Leanne concludes: “Just to come out the other side and be able to say ‘I did it.’ And to give these girls a hug and congratulate them at the end.

“I’d also love to encourage other women to come along and give it a go. It’s not just a men’s sport, it’s hard work but great for everyone.”

As the Lift philosophy goes “Train hard, fight easy.” These girls are ready to rumble.

Check out our website at: www.womanthismonth.com to see the women in action. And Lift will be live streaming the fights on the night if you can’t get there in person.

www.womanthismonth.com

May 2018

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FEATURE | empowerment

COACHING FOR THE FUTURE

’s of Bahrain (ICF). lm e h e th n at h Federatio ew woman There’s a n e International Coac got involved in the th e chapter of med explains how sh lly. h ca A lo a e r Samee at’s in stor h w d n a n professio

H

ow did you get into coaching?

It was 2015 when I started coach training with BMC [Beckett McInroy Consultancy].

I was fascinated by the concept and its applications in both personal life and business. It literary changed my life.

You have a lot of experience with largescale projects. Do you also do one-to-one coaching?

Yes, I do. The majority of my one-to-one coaching is for those who are working around their professional development and business improvement issues.

How does coaching differ from the kind of career advice sessions one used to get at school?

In coaching, we don't offer advice, direct nor lead. We engage in thought-provoking conversation where the coachee discovers the answers by themselves. We believe that people are creative, resourceful and whole; they don’t need a fix and they, for sure, have the full ability to create the life they want – if they want.

Do you work in specific areas or can the skills you teach be applied in any field?

I work in the areas of professional development, business process innovation and improvements, sales, marketing and customer service.

Please tell us about your ‘play, think, learn’ concept. How did you develop it and what results have you seen?

In the concept, I follow a strategy in delivering my training and coaching sessions

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May 2018

where participants are required to perform 80 per cent of the concepts learned during the sessions via highly interactive activities and role plays that reflect their learning. This model enables them to better learn and have an indepth understanding of the learning outcomes.

It works on the basis that if the person is enjoying what they do, they are more likely to learn and improve in a better way. It's not only a training method, it's a philosophy of living in your passion zone.

I have received a great deal of feedback after the sessions on how participants still remember and apply the concept learned during the training to improve their skills both in work and life.

You have a particular affinity for youth training. How are you taking this forward and why do you believe it is important?

I joined BSTD [Bahrain Society for Training and Development] as youth leadership programmes director in 2015. Training youth develops my muscle in training adults.

It also gives me a sense of fulfilment – I feel as though I am a mother to 1,000s of kids in Bahrain. [In fact, since she started coaching she has carried out volunteer presentations and sessions, such as Leader In Me, Secrets of Success, and Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs, for more than 2,000 young people.]

This month sees you take up the presidency of Bahrain chapter of the International Coach Federation. Please tell us more about the organisation; how many members both globally and locally and what does it do?

ICF is committed to advancing the coaching profession so coaching becomes an integral part of society. Its members aim to lead this journey by representing the highest quality in professional coaching. It also operates the ICF Code of Ethics which is designed to provide appropriate guidelines, accountability and enforceable standards of conduct for all ICF members and ICF credential-holders.

Anyone can call themselves a coach. To be an ICF coach, an individual must complete at least 60 hours of coach-specific training and pledge to abide by the ICF Code of Ethics. ICF credential-holders and mentor coaches must meet additional education and experience requirements.

There are more than 30,000 members globally and Bahrain had 28 at the end of 2017.

I have been an ICF member since 2016 and being elected as chapter president is definitely an honour.

What are your plans for your time as president? What do you hope to achieve and how will you go about this?

I hope to enhance awareness about the coaching profession and to emphasise the ethical practices of this profession. I aim to do this through creating collaborations with other societies and corporates and designing and executing projects such as workshops, sessions and seminars.

Coaching is a way of living; it's not a profession, not a business, it's simply a life style. www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | empowerment

WOMEN

POWER SUMMIT May 6-7

DAY 1

AFTERNOON

The afternoon will see a series of panel discussions: But What If I Fail? featuring Sonya Janahi of Maya La Chocolaterie, Shura Council member Roua Al Hayki and Julie Alexander of Baker and McKenzie, moderated by Zahra Taher of Finmark.

MAY 6

MORNING

The event kicks off with sponsor addresses from CEO Dr Adel Hubali and Fatema Bastaki, both of Bahrain Credit, whose Imtiaz For Her product is the summit’s main sponsor.

The first morning sees spotlight sessions with Dr Fatima Al Balooshi, former Minister of Social Development, Health and Human Rights and the country’s longest serving female government minister, who will speak on the subject ‘Write Your Name in History’.

Najia Al Shirawi, CEO of regional bank SICO, will present on ‘The Laws of Leadership’. And Mishaal Ashemimry, aerospace engineer and CEO of Mishaal Aerospace, will give a presentation ‘Ambitious Beyond the Sky’.

All three will be interviewed by other prominent women.

There will be seminars by Dina Shabib, MD and founder of Etijah Coaching, who will give insights on how to conduct oneself during job interviews, and Amy Morgan, founding partner and CEO of Unisono, presenting on courageous communication.

A panel discussion – Shattering the Workplace Myth: Are women opponents or allies in the workplace? – will feature Jordana Semaan of APM terminals, Najwa Abdulrahim of Bahrain Airport Services, Areije Shakar of BDB, and Amal Kooheji. It will be moderated by Dana Abdulla of the Economic Development Board.

Amna AlAmer

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May 2018

The Kingdom’s first summit dedicated to women’s empowerment takes place this month under the patronage of Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, chairwoman of Al Salaam Bank. As media partner, Woman This Month is happy to share highlights of what’s in store.

Dana Zubari

Standing Out: Women in the Fashion Industry featuring designer Hala Kaiksow, Sophia Jawad of Jawad’s fashion division and Alaa AlBalkhy of Fyunka, moderated by Hend Al Awadi, aircraft engineer and influencer.

Her Communities featuring Fajer Alhashel of Disability Awareness, Mary-Justine Todd of Women’s Crisis Care International and Dr Alanoud Alsharekh of Ibtkar Strategic Consultancy, moderated by Dipika Prasad of Lakeer.

Stirring the Pot: Female Chefs Breaking Norms in the Restaurant Industry featuring Susy Massetti of Masso and Roaya Saleh of Villa Mamas, moderated by Tala Bashmi of the Gulf Hotel.

There will also be a seminar, entitled ‘Fashionably Modest’, with Mara Mostapha, fashion blogger, Tulin Sahin, blogger and Amna AlAmer of the Court of the Crown Prince, moderated by Anaam Ikram of Perle magazine. And Nadia Bouslama of Bahrain Airport Services will conduct a seminar – ‘Her Brand, Her Story’.

At 3pm there will be a chance for attendees to chat with Suzy Kanoo, president of Khalil bin Ebrahim Kanoo Company in a roundtable discussion – ‘Conversations With A Leader’.

Faiza Saeed

Dr Fatima AlBalooshi www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | empowerment

DAY 2

MAY 7

MORNING

Following welcome remarks from Dr Mary Collins of the RCSI, there will be a series of panel discussions: Igniting the Boardroom featuring Deema Al Haddad of Al Haddad Motors, Nada Alawi of Annada and Fatima Ebrahim of Action Global Communications, moderated by Nadia Bouslama.

Her & Politics featuring Dr Muneera Al Khalifa of the Institute of Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eman Rafay of the Royal Court of Oman, Panel discussions: Yara Faraj Coding the Future: Women in tech and emerging global of the Office technologies featuring Hala Sulaiman of Beyond Borders Consulting, of the First Luisa Meneghetti of Connect Coaching, Saba Saleem of The Stories Deputy Prime Studio and invention consultant Amina Al Hawaj, moderated by Bryony Minister and Cooper of Brinc.io.

EARLY EVENING

Nora Al Aamer of the Supreme Council for Environment, moderated by Noora Al Mutawa of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister’s Office.

Currency of Equality featuring Najwa Al Ahmed of BBK, Dana Bu Heji of NBB and Leena Al Olaimy of 3BL Associates Consultancy.

There will also be spotlight sessions with Mona Almoayyed of YK Almoayyed & Sons and Hadyah Fathalla of C5 Capital Ltd as well as a group spotlight with Layla Salle of Tahqiq Al Ezdihar, Marriam Mossalli of Niche Arabia, Yara Salman of Hospitalia by Yara and Yathreb AlA’ameri of House of H, moderated by Karla Solano of AMEX. Seminars will be ‘Let’s Talk About Mentors’, with Najma Ghuloom of Majra.cme and ‘The Art of Slow Living’, with Rose Vlajic of Singapore Flowers.

Heroines in the ER featuring Dr Sara Al Reefy of the London Breast Care Centre, Dr Mariam Baqi, consultant dermatologist and Dr Ameera AlMossali of Dental Club, moderated by Eman Nooruddin, founder of Dreams.

There will also be a spotlight on the AlMoayyed family with Hala and Aamal AlMoayyed; a second spotlight, ‘Not Alone: Mental Awareness Campaign’, with Sayyida Basma, mental health consultant and psychotherapist; a presentation, ‘She Creates, She Innovates’, by Najia Qamber of Qamber Designs & Media, and Nehal Al Omari of Papermoon; and a seminar, ‘Empower to be Empowered’, featuring Dr Sana Farid of MENAsd, Emma Al Mansoori of Empower Business Solutions and Maryam AlAmri of Youth Vision.

EVENING

Showing of the inspirational film He Named Me Malala followed by a panel discussion featuring Eman Nooruddin, Sohara Mehroze and Basima Abdulrahman of Kesk.

Mona AlMoayyed

Ghizlane Rahali www.womanthismonth.com

Hala AlMoayyed

Dr Mariam Baqi

Mishaal Ashemimry May 2018

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FEATURE | empowerment

DAY 2

MAY 7

AFTERNOON

In the afternoon Shaikha Hessa Al Khalifa of Injaz will speak on ‘Rulers to Runway’, and there will be seminars by Duaa Zainal on ‘Dressing for the Boardroom’; Faeza Saeed on being executive ready; and Leena Al Olalmy on diversity and inclusion.

Panel discussions: A Woman’s Canvas featuring artist Shaikha Marwa Al Khalifa, Nout Khonji of Think Farm, Hussa Al-Humaidi of Nuqat and artist Ramah Al Husseini, moderated by Raneen Bukhari of Desert Designs.

Feasting on Dreams featuring Saniya Abdulaai of Perfectly Pressed, Nawal Al Sabagh of Nawal Flowers and Dona Murad of Hopscotch and Grind, moderated by writer Noor Noorrudin.

Spotlight sessions will include ‘Raising Your Voice’ with women’s rights activist Loujain Al Hathloul and ‘Execution is Everything’ featuring Nasie Qamber of Saffron Café, Sara Alkoheji of Cooking Studio and Wejdan Ismali of Sandwich Guys, moderated by chef Hessa

Najla AlShirawi

Nehal Al Omari

Humood Al Khalifa.

Ghizlane Rahali of PieCreative Consulting will present a workshop on ‘Pitching for the Media’.

There will also be two roundtable discussions: Creativity Within Motherhood featuring Salamed Mohamed and Pearlbys, Armina Al Abbasin of Amina Gallery and TV host Rana Alamuddin, moderated by jewellery designer Azza Al-Hujairi.

She Races to Horizons featuring equestrian and Ironman finalist Manal Fakhrawi, para athlete Shaikha Al Shaiba, Sarah Al Sammak of Cycling Bees, athletes Rana Alawi and Mariam Turki and May Al Haji of Bahrain Triathlon Association, moderated by Dana Zubari of Cycling Bees.

The movie WEOTITU will be shown in the early evening followed by a discussion with lawyer Fatima Al Hasan.

EVENING

Speed networking event.

Ramah AlHusseini

Shaikha AlShaiba

Susy Massetti

Yara Salman

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May 2018

www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

The cake-cutting ceremony

AMH Riffa Opening

The American Mission Hospital opened its Riffa clinic opposite The Walk. The opening ceremony was inaugurated by Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, president of Bahrain Supreme Council of Health. Also in attendance were HE Justin Siberell, US Ambassador, and other distinguished guests.

AMH staff with Shaikh Mohammed Julia & Shaikh Mohammed

Jenan & Batool

Shini, Asha, Jeeya & Bindu

www.womanthismonth.com

Teresa, Mithu & Freeda

Shini & Inday

Kathleen, Catherine, Carmen & Dr Rene

May 2018

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Amaal, Anuradha & Janet

Collin Dsilva & Archana Prakash

Britto, Mehzar & Sabu

Archana and Collin’s Fairytale Wedding

Young sweethearts Archana and Collin tied the knot in a grand wedding ceremony spanning three days filled with colourful, fun-filled rituals at Al Areen Palace & Spa’s picturesque poolside and in the hotel’s Al Qasr Tent. All the gorgeous jewellery for the wedding and pre-wedding functions was specifically designed by the bride’s doting father, Prakash Amratlal, the owner of Prakash Jewellers.

Ram Prakash & Bhaskar Devji

Pranesh Rai

Radhika Prakash

Rashmi Rao, Ella Prakash & Prakash Amratlal Prakash Amratlal & Yogesh Bhatia

Pankaj, Dineshbai, Bhaskar Sagar, Virenbhai & Sunil H Sagar

Roshan, Roshini & Shantini Raja

46 May 2018

Emily & Shreeja

Abhimanyu & Roger

Champa Ba & Poonam Bharat

www.womanthismonth.com

BEAUTY | tips

P U E K A M

e hot m o s u o y brings cool and fresh a m r a h Apple S p you looking kee Month. tips to y l o H e Th during

R

amadan is a time to abstain from all things superfluous; the same goes for your make-up – keep it minimal. For all who are fasting, it’s especially important to look after your skin as it suffers from dehydration, even more so since it’s summer. In keeping with the etiquette of The Holy Month, avoid using excessive make-up. You can still look your best; the trick is to keep it simple!

DAYTIME

Take this opportunity to give your complexion some much needed R&R and let your skin breath. Keep your look as natural as possible during daylight hours. It's the best way to flaunt your features and takes no time at all.

IPS:

AN T D A M A

, water t a f o y t e n nk ple er way to g i r D : t te et Hydrao easier or bplexion. n s com ing there’ dewy ore go 15 f e b t 10, jus le lips e it on for p p u s v y, lea . n: For Softed apply hontees and rinse e u to b ight min least e it t a t e G lit st up! n if you sp a e R : e e r r Restors of sleep, eavnd night, fo u y ho en da ow. betwe natural gl

eyes. Alternatively, skip kohl altogether and, instead, use a non-glossy mascara, preferably brown, and a tinted brow gel, for a more subtle look.

• For cheeks, dab on a small amount of cream blusher (peachy pink hues) and blend well. Use sparingly, apply to the apples of your cheeks for just a slight blush and use shades that suit your skin tone.

Apply translucent loose powder to set in place.

• Finally, add a hint of colour with a lightly tinted lip balm, same shade as your blush. You can even use the same cream blusher that you used for your cheeks and blend with your fingertips.

R

NIGHT-TIME

• After cleansing, apply your regular moisturiser or SPF sunscreen, to hydrate and protect your skin. Prep your face with a light foundation or a tinted BB-cream. A colourless primer works wonders too.

• Use a concealer to cover dark circles, blemishes and spots. Opt for a shade lighter than your foundation and choose a lightweight formula for a more natural feel.

• Apply a light kohl, one that matches your

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May 2018

After sunset, as the Ramadan festivities begin, you want to look your best for family gatherings or outings with friends. You can have a bit more fun with your make-up in the evening hours, but don’t go overboard.

Instead, keep it moody and mystic to go with the Arabian theme of the occasion.

• Mysterious eyes are a good understated evening look. Use a slightly darker kohl or eyeliner on the waterline and earthy shades of eye shadows – browns and bronzes – for the top lids, to create smoky eyes. Apply a winged eyeliner on the upper lash line.

Finish with a black volumising mascara to create luscious lashes.

• Use a cream blusher in pinks and peaches,

and define your face by contouring with a matte bronzer.

• Keep lips natural to accentuate the smoky eyes. Use a lip gloss in the same shade as your rouge, or a nude lipstick closest to your natural lip colour should also do the trick. If you’re rushed for time, skip the dramatic eyes and go for statement lips with colourful shades. www.womanthismonth.com

showcase DESSANGE PARIS

GETTING IN SHAPE

I

This combination treatment redefines and smoothens your silhouette, as Apple Sharma found out.

f you’re on your way to a slimmer, more toned you, then the latest treatment I tried at Dessange Paris Bahrain could most certainly get you closer to your goals.

The Elemis Body Sculpting and Colon Therapy is a 60-minute procedure to help you achieve a more sculpted figure. Now, don’t be afraid by the latter part, as I was, when I first heard it. I assure you, this is a completely non-invasive treatment, and one that combines a lovely mask and a specialist massage to cleanse the body’s systems, with minimum discomfort.

My skilled therapist, Erin, put me at ease instantly as she explained the entire method. The Elemis Body Sculpting System is clinically proven to redefine your silhouette, and the detoxifying fennel and birch peel-off body mask combined with a special massage technique helps firm and smooth the skin, boost circulation and reduce fluid retention.

All this sounded wonderful and I was ready as can be for my transformation to begin.

Erin started with the standard welcome foot ritual, which I thoroughly enjoy as the gentle massage on the feet takes away the aches of the day (courtesy of wearing high-heels) and always puts me in relaxation mode. She did a quick body brush (front and back) and proceeded with the sculpting massage, first on the front and then the back, concentrating on the legs and thighs, using Cellutox Active

www.womanthismonth.com

Body Oil with Elemis Body Sculpting Serum. Now, I must confess that this was not like any massage I’ve ever had; it was a little stronger than usual and felt like someone patting you hard with cupped hands.

It was a tad uncomfortable, to start with, but I soon got used to it and it didn’t last long enough for me to dwell on the discomfort.

I was left to rest for a while, as Erin prepared the Fennel Cleansing Mask and I waited in anticipation. She applied the paste generously on both thighs and wrapped them with thermal plastic. She then began the part that I initially had my reservations about – the colon therapy. It came as a great relief

when she gently bodybrushed my stomach area and began the sculpting abdominal massage – applying slight pressure, following the pulse of my stomach with my breathing. Erin explained that this ‘cleansing of the colon’ helps to detoxify the body, working from the inside out. Honestly, I had nothing to worry about – my stomach felt light almost instantly after she had finished, and my digestion most certainly improved over the next couple of days.

The mask was still working its wonders and, while we waited, Erin gave me a mini head and scalp massage. She then removed the mask with hot lime mitts and finished off by applying the Cellutox Active Body Oil with Elemis Body Sculpting Cream. My skin felt great and, with only one treatment, I noticed an improvement in the firmness of the skin. I guess the resculpting was indeed taking shape!

Dessange recommends two treatments per week as part of a cleansing or detox programme. I think it gives a great little boost when you’re trying to lose weight and makes you feel light on your feet and in your stomach!

Call 17 713-999.

May 2018

49

BEAUTY |styling

TURN DOWN THE HEAT Celebrity hair stylist Asgar Saboo gives his top tips on how to get salon-perfect sleek, straight hair without resorting to damaging heat treatments.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAMPOO It all starts with changing up your hair-wash routine. Choose a shampoo and conditioner specifically made to smooth your hair; these are designed to weigh down and moisturise your locks with lasting results. Post wash, apply leave-in conditioner or smoothing cream to maximise moisture. If your hair is really thick and curly, apply hair oil such as argan or macadamia. This will be absorbed fully into your hair, leaving your locks looking glossy and straight.

TOWEL DRY To avoid using heat on your hair, it’s important to make the most of towel drying.

Regularly using a blow dryer can leave hair dry and visibly damaged. It’s worth investing in an extra absorbent towel made from microfibre. This will ensure moisture is absorbed without leaving hair frizzy. Use your towel slowly and gently. Otherwise, the friction will leave your hair looking frizzy and tangled.

COMB IT OUT Once you’ve towel dried until your hair is only slightly damp, you’ll need to thoroughly comb it through. Separate locks into manageable sections use a wide-tooth comb. Comb firmly downwards, pulling your hair tightly to force it straight and stop it from curling up. Repeat this motion every few minutes until your hair is completely dry. Applying a small amount of smoothing product such as coconut oil

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May 2018

or mousse just before your hair dries will discourage frizz and prevent those pesky waves from creeping in.

THE COLD BLOW DRY Just because you’re avoiding heat, it doesn’t mean you have to put down your hair dryer!

These days, most hair dryers come with a cool setting, perfect for drying your hair without damage. Blow dry on the cool setting whilst continuously brushing downwards. This process will take slightly longer than drying with heat, but be patient; the result will be silky smooth and damage free!

Smooth out any remaining frizz using keratin serum. Apply a pea-size amount to your palm and lather your scalp. Avoid applying too much of the product, as any excess could leave your hair looking greasy.

DIY HAIR MASKS Not only do hair masks leave your hair smooth and straight, they are also great for nourishing, strengthening and protecting your locks! These simple masks are quick and easy to create at home, and much cheaper than storebought products.

COCONUT MILK MASK

Combine one cup of coconut milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice. Place the mixture in a glass in the fridge for two hours. When removed, it will be creamy and thick. Scoop out the mixture and massage all over your locks. Leave on for 40 minutes, before rinsing with cold water. Not only will this treatment leave your hair glossy and straight, but its antifungal properties will protect your scalp from infection and bacteria.

BANANA PASTE

This simple mixture is perfect for using up your over-ripe bananas, and will banish all frizz, leaving your hair straight and beautifully glossy. Beat one slightly over-ripe banana until it develops a paste-like texture. Add a tablespoon of yoghurt, a tablespoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice. Lather over your locks and leave for 40 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

MILK SPRAY Take an empty spray bottle and fill with a quarter cup of milk. Spritz it all over your locks until fully saturated. Leave for around 30 minutes before rinsing with cold water. The milk will protect the shafts of your hair, controlling any frizz, leaving hair smooth and straight. Repeat the process twice a week to see the best results.

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showcase

S PA

P U E MAK KES A T S I M ON & J OZ SA L

o ou how t y s l l e t a & Sp nders Joz Salon uge make-up blu kes. ht h avoid eig arly everyone ma that ne

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ost of us wear make-up every day, whether it's just a little mascara and some concealer or full-on contouring and strobing. Yet even in the day of extensive YouTube tutorials and Instagram make-up stars, where it feels like information is available 24/7, apparently there are areas where we could all use some help with our technique. That's what Joz Salon & Spa learnt when it recently checked with several clients.

Overdoing it. Apparently, we could all stand to dial back on the foundation, powder, contouring and highlighter, despite what those Instagram make-up tutorials tell us. "A common mistake we see is too much makeup – less is more,” says a salon spokesperson.

“So maybe before you add another few dots of concealer under your eyes, think before you apply.”

Here are the other mistakes that women make with their make-up and how to fix them.

1. Too Much Concealer

Overusing concealer like they do on social media. Concealer is to be used extremely lightly and only to correct. Not put on in stripes and triangles all over and under the eyes. That looks too cakey, will disintegrate very quickly, and looks horrible unless you are under bright beauty lights.

2. Mismatched Face and Neck

There is nothing worse than seeing a nasty line around the face of deeper make-up and a

stark, lighter neck. This is an easy fix. Sadly, in recent years, make-up instructions have been to load up on foundation, contour, highlight and powder, making skin look almost masklike. Remember to only apply foundation where needed, and thoroughly blend. This includes bringing the foundation down to the chest and, often-forgotten, neck.

3. Too Much Blush

This is another common mistake, but also one of the easiest to correct. If too much blush is applied, simply grab the foundation brush used (even better if it still has residual foundation left on it) and blend out any harsh edges, making the blush look more seamless on the skin.

4. Skipping Lip Prep

Using heavily pigmented matte lipsticks before properly prepping the lips is one of the worst make-up mistakes. Not only does it make your lips dry, but they also look awful as the day progresses. Use ChapStick Total Hydration Conditioning Lip Scrub coupled with ChapStick Total Hydration Lip Balm, which preps and moisturises the lips under colour without compromising the look that you are going for. www.womanthismonth.com

5. Raccoon Eyeliner

The salon often sees women wearing too much liner around the eyes. it’s a quick makeup fix but sometimes it makes the eyes look tired or heavy. Usually pencils drag when applied so the applications tend to look very heavy. Instead, smoothly glide it on the top of the lash line to make the eyes look bigger and the lash line look thicker. Use sparingly on the bottom lashes so as to not make the eyes look too dark.

6. Using the Wrong Highlighter

Now that highlighting and strobing is popular, a chalky powdery highlight for daytime is a mistake. Switching to cream or liquid is subtler and more forgiving in the daylight.

7. Or Just Too Much Highlighter

One common mistake is overusing the highlighter. It should be used strategically to play up your features (apply high up on cheek bones, on tear ducts, centre of lower lip, for example), not applied along the entire length of your nose or all over your face, creating a wet or shiny look. Less is more.

8. Forgetting the Eyelash Curler

If you aren't blessed with a natural bend to your lashes, always use an eyelash curler before you apply mascara.

Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449.

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BEAUTY | news

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Range.

This year, the Ultra HD range welcomes three new, advanced, products: Perfector, Soft Light, and Underpainting. Perfector, available in eight shades, is a new generation of skin tint that is buildable, extra-glide, lightweight and hydrates the skin while protecting it with SPF 25. Soft Light is a liquid highlighter that gives the skin an instant luminous glow. It can be used alone or mixed with foundation or primer. Underpainting is a colourcorrecting palette to leave a flawless complexion and perfect canvas for foundation application. It’s a four-in-one palette with two shades to correct and two to camouflage.

Available at leading retailers.

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear.

The gold standard of liquid foundations for the past 20 years. After Teint Idole Ultra Wear Stick and Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage in 2017, Lancôme pushes the boundaries of customisation with its limited edition of super-shiny liquid highlighters in four shades, Custom Glow Drops. These oh-soversatile highlighters with their high concentrations of pearlised pigments are designed to give a natural look with a sun-kissed gleam. With four shades, there are infinite possibilities. Available at leading retailers.

Max Factor Launches Online Makeup Academy.

Following the success of the Max Factor Makeup Academy, the brand has now launched its online counterpart to make make-up artistry accessible to enthusiasts across the region. This is the first and only online programme in the Middle East that offers access to a network and regional community of make-up artists. The online course is specifically designed to reach out to those who are restricted by physical boundaries and make it easier for them to define their beauty and make-up skills. It will offer graduates a professional course officially recognised and accredited by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

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Bourjois Healthy Mix. Applying your favourite Healthy

Mix foundation just got better with the range having expanded to include a primer, BB cream and compact powder along with the beloved Healthy Mix foundation and concealer.

The primer comes as one universal shade and is made to smoothen your skin, whilst decreasing the lines and the size of your pores.

The BB cream comes in three shades to help minimise the appearance of blemishes, even out your skin tone and give you an anti-fatigue effect. And the Healthy Mix powder reduces unwanted shine, leaving your skin looking matte and smooth.

Available at leading retailers.

J Lo for Inglot. Jennifer Lopez is stepping behind the scenes and debuting a limited-edition collection in partnership with global beauty brand Inglot Cosmetics.

The 70-piece, extensive colour line will bring Jennifer’s and Inglot’s shared vision of strong femininity to life and offer women diverse ways to express themselves through beauty. The star says: “The capsule collection we created with Inglot is filled with all my go-to products in my favourite colours. We have everything from mascara, lipsticks and eyelashes to blush, eye shadow and, of course, bronzers. What I think is unique and exciting is our Freedom System Palette—which allows you to create your own personalised palette with the specific colours and products that you need. Now you no longer have to buy that five-piece eye shadow kit to get the one colour you really want!” Available at Inglot.

NARS Cosmetics Spring 2018 Colour Collection.

Featuring new shades and formulas for lips, eyes, and cheeks, the collection offers a fresh spectrum of luminous neutrals and molten accents. Lips go creamy and full coverage with limited-edition high pigmented shades of fan-favourite, Lip Cover. Eyes open up to polished shine in metallic Velvet Shadow Sticks, while a radiant gradient enlivens cheeks with tones of Liquid Blush and a newly formulated Highlighting Blush. Featuring a satiny, cool powder that imparts the most subtle pearly radiance to the skin, the new sheer and buildable Highlighting Blush formula is easy to apply and melts flawlessly into the complexion revealing an enhanced, healthy skin tone. Available at Nars and Sephora. www.womanthismonth.com

news

L’Occitane Aqua Réotier Collection.

Formulated with the calcium-rich water of Provence’s Réotier Spring, the hydrating facial routine of this new collection not only moisturises skin but is efficient for at least 24 hours. Three active ingredients work together. Hyaluronic acid helps skin retain moisture, restoring its vitality; glycerine captures water molecules at the skin’s surface, hydrating and plumping it; and calcium-rich Réotier water helps strengthen the outermost layer of skin, preserving its natural hydration.

Products in the range are the light, creamy Ultra ThirstQuenching Cream; sparking Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel; Water Gel Cleanser; Moisture Prep Essence and Fresh Moisturising Mist. Together they also come in a travel-sized collection. Available at L’Occitane.

YSL Beauté Tatouage. A reckless gang of shades – each one matched by a raw conviction. Intense colours here to stay, with naked lip feel, they’re inky, cool and more matte than ever before. With high-pigment concentration, deposited in a really thin veil, expect 24-hour colour. A pioneering new applicator gives the tatouage hedonist the intuitive precision and control of a professional make-up artist to shape and contour seductive lip curves. And, with 24 exciting shades, there’s at least one to suit every woman. Available at leading retailers.

www.womanthismonth.com

Dolce&Gabbana Garden.

The fashion house unveils its latest eau de parfum, a floriental gourmand blending citrusy and creamy notes. The exquisite balance of freshness and sweetness reminds us of the scents of a blooming garden. The fragrance opens with an explosion of juicy mandarin and bright neroli, then unfolds with the addictive notes of frangipani flower wrapped with coconut essence. The warm notes of vanilla absolute and sandalwood extend its sensual trail. Available at leading retailers.

Rasasi Shaghaf. Rasasi Perfumes has launched an

elegant and chic new collection – Shaghaf Pour Homme and Pour Femme. Meaning ‘Passion’ in Arabic, Shaghaf is inspired by internationally trending floral, fruity and woody accords. Shaghaf Pour Femme is inspired by white flowers. The fragrance opens on the lifting notes of lemon infused almond and coffee. The heart is an intensely romantic bouquet of iris, jasmine, lily and tuberose. Vanilla infuses a lusciously gourmand charm to the intensely warm, deep and earthy sandalwoodmusk-amber accord, creating a perfect ode for a classy, modern woman ruled by strong emotions. Available at Rasasi.

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showcase MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

THE KNIFE-FREE FACE LIFE

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Liz O’Reilly tried the Mövenpick’s CACI non-surgical face lift and came away looking like a new woman.

irst off, I have to say that when it was suggested I should let someone pass an electric current through my face, I was, understandably I think, somewhat concerned.

However, as a red-headed smoker, with years of sun damage, I’m pretty much game for anything that will give my much-abused skin a bit of a boost.

So, off I went to the Mövenpick’s Rimal Spa where I was entrusted to the care of the extremely capable Amitta, who went out of her way to explain every step of the procedure, assuring me that it would not hurt at all. She was right.

Using delicious-smelling Harley Street London products in conjunction with the CACI (Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument) machine and its firming gel, Amitta started with a wide slider gently massaging my chin and jaw area.

She explained that this initial part of the treatment is to awaken the muscles, which we all know begin to get a bit lazy with age. This was followed by short, gentle strokes all over my face and around my eyes with a set of

Ram, Archana, Ella & Radhikha

Alona

two-pronged wands containing a rich elixir of aloe and soy. Up to this point I had felt nothing other than a gentle pressure – no shocks, no pain, nothing.

Having established that my main areas of concern are my cheeks and upper lip (where I have the dreaded smoker’s pout), Amitta next applied pads which administered a stronger current. If you’ve ever used one of those battery-operated massagers, it feels a bit like that. Weird, rather than painful.

And after a few minutes, she completed my treatment by going back to the rods to administer a strong anti-ageing serum.

I have to say, I had initially been skeptical. But, afterwards, I really could see a difference and I’ll be going back for the recommended course of six to 12 treatments. Line-free Lizzie. Bring it on!

Bhavika & Pallavi

Ella Impressions

Ella Prakash launched her fashion and lifestyle venture, Ella Impressions, at her gallery in Adliya.

Prakash & Sreekala

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Rajni

Seema & Leila

May

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Hassan and Noora Alwazzan held a party for their daughter Hessa at their home in Saar.

Hessa’s 2nd Birthday Party

Abdulrahman Jr & Nooran

Isabella, Jade & Sophia

Mahin, Hassan, Noora & children

Abdulrahman, Noora, Hessa, Hassan & Lynne

Salman, Jude, Noora, Hessa & Hassan

Romy, Ryan & Fahad Bashayer & Nooran

Ali

Layla

Hassan, Abdulrahman, Hamani & Hamoodi

Ebrahim

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Ines, Miriam, Sara, Lynne & Yousef

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LIFESTYLE | wellbeing

WINNING

THE WEIGHT WAR (PART I)

In the first of a two-part feature looking at what’s hampering your weight loss, Behnaz Sanjana gets the low-down on exercise.

Exercise may be a dirty word in your vocabulary, but it can quickly cut your weight by enabling the body to burn more calories rather than just going hungry. Another upside is increased muscle mass (for that svelte figure), agility and self-confidence.

If your weight-loss journey is a slow, frustrating ride, Lelani Vrey, health club manager at Dessange Bahrain, tells you how to win the inch war.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

“There is no best way to exercise; when it comes to weight loss, the important thing is to be realistic,” says Lelani. “There are many different ways to exercise. Whichever method you choose, someone will tell you it is the best. But everybody is different and will respond to a set exercise differently.”

So, firstly, identify your workout style and interest, and figure out if it will work for you.

And, no, there's no solid scientific evidence to suggest that you can burn fat on specific areas of your body. So, it helps to have a more holistic view of your endeavour.

Too Much of a Good Thing

Yes, there is such a thing as too much exercise (!!!). Lelani explains that any exercise is a form of stress to which the body responds by developing better endurance and aerobic capacity.

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Cardiovascular activity aka aerobic training, includes any activity that keeps the heart rate elevated for long periods of time. Examples include walking, swimming, running, cycling, rowing or jumping rope.

But, get this before you jump on to the cardio bandwagon, too much can be detrimental, actually preventing you from losing weight, making it a less sustainable plan for the long run, warns Lelani. “To lose weight, people simply ramp up their cardiovascular exercise.

Unfortunately, the positive fat-burning effects of cardio are short-lived. Once you stop exercising, your body’s metabolism quickly

returns to its normal state. You will be forced to do more and more in order to see ongoing weight-loss results.

“Overtraining can lead to decreased muscle mass. This in turn dips your resting metabolic rate [the calories you burn when you’re NOT exercising] even further. Your body will begin to shed fat even more slowly, unless you do even more cardio, putting you on a vicious cycle!”

She adds that other life stressors (work or relationships) make it difficult for the body to cope with a demanding cardio routine, leaving you more tired, worn out and susceptible to illness and injury.

Strength training is the number one way to build more muscle and lose actual fat. Incorporate it along with cardio to see the best results. www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | wellbeing

How Hard? How Long?

Lelani says that your ultimate fitness goal will dictate the intensity and duration of your workouts. Current fitness levels and daily schedule also come into play.

She explains: “If you are sedentary and overweight, long-duration, moderateintensity exercise may help you lose weight.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for healthy adults, and 250 minutes or more for adults who want to lose weight.”

Take a Break

Building recovery time into any training programme is important for the body to adapt to the stress of exercise. It’s when the real effect of your training takes place. It also allows the body to replenish energy stores and repair damaged tissues. This can be active recovery – low intensity activity lasting from 30-60 minutes; or complete recovery – no training for a period of time.

Symptoms of overtraining often occur due to a lack of recovery time. Proper nutrition also plays a very big part in recovery.

What’s Stress Got to Do with It?

Stress and anxiety are powerful triggers for weight gain.

The expert explains: “Every time you have a stressful day, your brain instructs your cells to release potent hormones. You get a burst of adrenaline to enable the fight or flee instinct. A surge of cortisol tells your body to replenish that energy even though you haven't used very many calories. This can make you very hungry. The body keeps on pumping out cortisol as long as the stress continues.” So now you know the science behind stress-triggered binge eating!

She says that although it burns fewer calories than jogging or brisk walking, yoga engages the mind and can help combat stress. This can influence the energy intake-expense balance and help reduce weight.

Bust the Rut

During the weight-loss journey, your body will change and your fitness will improve, making it important to tweak your training and nutrition. A fitness professional can monitor your progress and make the necessary changes. “Sometimes people get stuck in a plateau for weeks.

This indicates that calorie input [what you're eating] is equal to calorie output [what you're burning]. The only way to break through a weight-loss plateau is to cut calorie intake further and/or burn more calories through exercise,” says Lelani.

DESSANGE’S TOP TIPS TO STAY ON YOUR GAME Making the choice to get in shape shouldn’t be considered a temporary fix or commitment. Small, progressive steps over time make for a great longlasting result.

Focus on Wellness, Not Weight Loss Make better eating choices every day.

View Your Written Goals Every Day

Establish why you’re wanting to lose weight and what you’ll end up getting in return if you succeed.

Set Reasonable Goals

Be realistic, don’t overshoot or overdo it.

www.womanthismonth.com

Track Your Progress

Record your weight weekly. Even if the numbers haven’t budged in a week, you can look back at all your prior progress and remain motivated to keep going.

Music Does It

Your favourite tunes can really help you ‘get in the zone’ and up the motivation and energy.

Have an Accountability Partner Ditch Old Food Habits

Don’t bring high calorie snacks home.

When cravings strike, be ready to hit back with nutritious bites.

Exercise with a friend or join a group fitness class.

Appreciate and Reflect on All Positive Changes Even small changes (like high energy levels or how easily you wake up in the mornings) are motivation to keep going.

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LIFESTYLE | food

CHEF’S SPECIAL

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain is joining the rest of the international group in serving up seven special dishes to mark 70 years of culinary excellence.

Executive chef Ian Joyce shares one of his favourites.

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hef Ian has 20 years of experience in cooking and creating special culinary dishes. He joined Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain in September 2016, having spent nine years with Kempinski properties in Djibouti, Jordan and China, where he served as executive chef.

He began his career in his hometown of Bournemouth, England, before moving onto bigger roles in New Zealand, Bermuda and the Middle East. He holds a vast range of knowledge in the industry and possesses a unique and exciting mixture of culinary backgrounds, which guests truly appreciate.

Commenting on the island’s large and varied restaurant selection, he says: “Bahrain is very welcoming and has an innovative dining scene. I am very pleased to be at a property that has a strong and renowned reputation.”

The 70 years of culinary excellence initiative introduces seven inventive dishes that pay tribute to Ueli Prager, who, when founding the Mövenpick brand in 1948, redefined the European restaurant scene and paved the way for a new style of modern hospitality, based on a simple premise: "doing normal things in an extraordinary manner".

MILLE-FEUILLE SALMON AND OLIVE CAVIAR

Just as Prager introduced diners to unpretentious cuisine with a twist, such as curry-based Riz Casimir – a first in Europe – so, 70 years on, Mövenpick chefs have created an inspiring menu of uncomplicated but surprising creations, all of which use fresh, authentic and health-promoting ingredients.

Ingredients (serves four) 180g puff pastry, rolled out

For the filling

200ml cream (35% fat) whipped 10g horseradish, freshly grated 2 green apples 1 lemon, juice only 240g smoked salmon, thinly sliced Salt and pepper

For the pepper purée

1 red sweet pepper, seeded 1 yellow sweet pepper, seeded 2tsp cornflour Salt and pepper

For the accompaniments

Olive caviar, chervil, cress, salted capers, caper berries, thick slices of smoked salmon loin, crème fraiche (sour 35% fat)

Method

To make the pastry base: Lay puff pastry on a baking tray lined with baking paper, prick with a fork, cover with baking paper and weigh down with a second baking tray. Bake for 12 minutes in a pre-heated oven (190°C).

Leave to cool and then cut into rectangles, around 10cm x 28cm.

To make the filling: Fold horseradish into whipped cream, season with salt and pepper, reserve in the fridge. Slice apple thinly, with peel on, drizzle with lemon juice and reserve.

To make the pepper purée: Cook red and yellow sweet peppers in a little water until soft. Drain and blend separately, add one teaspoon of cornflour to each and bring to the boil to thicken. Season with salt and pepper and leave to cool.

To serve: Assemble the mille-feuille by layering smoked salmon, apple and whipped cream between puff pastry sheets. Garnish with olive caviar, chervil, cress and capers Decorate the plate with slices of smoked salmon loin, the two pepper purées and a dollop of crème fraiche.

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A NEW CLASSIC

LIFESTYLE | food

Liz O’Reilly tucked into some fabulous fare at the Jumeirah Royal Saray’s Palm Lounge.

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hen you walk through the doors of this recently opened hotel, you know you’re in for something a bit special. Clad in an expanse of Italian marble with handapplied gold and silver leaf on the ceilings, the vast lobby leads the eye through to the view beyond – the pool, beach and the shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf.

We were met by chef David, the property’s executive sous chef, who, despite his youthful 32 years, has amassed a wealth of top-level experience, including a stint with chef René Redzepi at his acclaimed Copenhagen eatery, Noma.

Taking full advantage of the balmy evening, we chose to be seated on the terrace, and I went for a starter of quinoa salad bursting with the nutty flavours of roasted pumpkin seeds, glistening ruby red pomegranate and the tart saltiness of local goat’s cheese.

Primed in advance, we were looking forward to the arrival of one of the venue’s signature dishes – the mushroom soup. It’s not often that the reputation of a humble soup precedes it, but, on this occasion, the hype is well deserved.

The bowls arrive bearing just a sprinkling of white mushrooms and caramelised onions and then the soup is poured over. It’s a 10 for presentation and flair, but the soup itself would easily garner a 12!

To be honest, I’m not usually a big fan of mushroom soup but this hearty bowl, bursting with flavour and a delightful creamy texture, won me over at the first sniff, never mind the first spoonful. Chef David explained the several-hour reduction process that goes into making this humble dish such a stand-out.

And even he was pleasantly surprised when my dining companion inquired as to the www.womanthismonth.com

identity of a fleeting burst of nutty sweetness – it’s hazelnut biscotti; totally unexpected but, oh, so perfectly right!

For main, I chose the salmon, a delicately flavoured fillet, very lightly smoked and then cooked to produce a deliciously crispy skin.

In a nod to local tradition, it comes served on a bed of creamy tahini with a liberal accompaniment of greens, chilli and walnuts – the perfect foil to the tahini’s richness.

On chef’s recommendation, my dining companion went for the Wagyu short rib and I immediately experienced a sharp pang of food envy! The already high-quality beef is braised for several hours with a range of light herbs and spices. The result, fragrant flesh so meltingly soft that you could literally cut it with a spoon. And, for those who usually steer clear of ribs to avoid the messiness of taking the meat off the bone, fear not, the kitchen has done the hard work, so you don’t have to.

On our way in, we’d had a good look at the extensive and extremely inviting dessert counter and I definitely had my eye on the raspberry mille feuille.

However, feeling full to the gunwales, we opted to forego dessert in favour of another venue signature – Colombian hot chocolate.

Served by a genuine Colombian cacao expert, it’s poured over dark-chocolate-coated marshmallow on a stick, which you then twirl to watch it melt. Another 10 for presentation and flair and a ritual I could return for again and again – perhaps next time, I’ll actually get to try that achingly pretty mille feuille, too.

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LIFESTYLE | home

USHER IN THE OUTDOORS

IKEA

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ith summer looming large, you might have to give up tranquil times outside. Although it’s prudent to stay within the cool confines of your home, you can still cosy up with a good read or sip a cuppa surrounded by fresh accessories and furnishings that won’t make you miss the spring season all that much.

The best décor around this time of year reflects the elements – air, water, earth and flora. Let the natural entwine with the man-made and incorporate fresh or faux plant life, botanical motifs, natural fibres, seashells, stone and wood to bring the outdoors in.

Desert Beacon LED lamp Namshi.com

Home Centre

Earthy Appeal

Planter H&M

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LIFESTYLE | home

Forest Dreams

Earthy Appeal

Serene Marine

Planters H&M

Rugs Illulian

Bed linen Marks & Spencer

Decorative Detail

Show plate Home Centre

Blooming Blue Candle holder The One

Radiant Buds Pod lens Luceplan

Verdant Surface Side table Clan Milano

Floral Fantasy Faux flowers Pottery Barn

Secret Store Ornamental jar The One

Let It Glow

Leaf tealight holder Home Centre www.womanthismonth.com

May 2018

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LIFESTYLE |travel

Cool Capitals

As the weather warms up, our thoughts are turning to a slightly more temperate spring break. We recommend some of Europe’s coolest capital cities.

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LIFESTYLE |travel

Shoes on the Danube Bank is a haunting memorial to darker days.

Look out for the city’s trendy “ruin bars” which are set up in or next to crumbling buildings for added atmosphere.

The funicular takes the hard work out of reaching Buda Castle.

A visit to the Szechenyi Thermal Spa is an absolute must.

www.womanthismonth.com

Budapest Budapest has several Michelin-starred restaurants but don't forget to try the traditional streetfood of langos, deep-fried flat bread smothered in sour cream and cheese.

The Hungarian State Opera House is worth a visit even if you don't catch a performance.

The Hungarian capital is split by the River Danube over which the famed, 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest. Perhaps not for the faint-hearted, a funicular train runs up the steep Castle Hill to Buda Castle and the Old Town. Here the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times. Buda Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is also home to the Fishermen’s Bastion – a picturesque updated lookout platform – and Matthias Church, which dates back to the 13th century.

See the city via a hop-on-hop-off bus, which gives the option to explore those areas that catch your interest. 'Don’t miss' spots include the Szechenyi Spa, Europe’s largest bath and pool complex in a city that is known for them, and Andrássy Avenue. This World Heritage Site thoroughfare was built to connect the city centre to City Park with eclectic Neo-Renaissance palaces and a shopping area that’s attracted many world-famous designers.

The Shoes on the Danube Bank installation is a poignant memorial to those lined up on the riverbank and shot by fascist militia during the Second World War, their shoes were left behind as their bodies were carried away by the flowing water. And the House of Terror houses exhibits related to the fascist and communist regimes in 20th-century Hungary and is also a memorial to the victims of these regimes, including those detained, interrogated, tortured or killed in the building The city has four Michelin-starred restaurants – Costes, Costes Downtown, Onyx, and Borkonyha – also check out Karavan street food court, Paneer for various fried cheeses at Kiraly Street in the VI District, and Tomi Langos – langos being the ultimate Hungarian street food of deep friend flat bread, add cheese or sour cream, or both!

Take a trip to Buda Castle and explore the Hungarian National Gallery which is housed there.

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LIFESTYLE |travel

The notorious Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous crossing point on the Berlin Wall, has been reconstructed as a historical tourist attraction.

Berlin

From a city divided by the infamous Berlin Wall, the German capital was reunited 29 years ago and wasted no time in vying for the unofficial Capital of Cool title. There is so much history here, it’s hard to know where to start but the preserved sections of the wall are as good a place as any. Daubed with graffiti and standing in stark contrast to the liberal freedom of today’s Berlin, they give a glimpse towards a much darker time; as does the notorious Checkpoint Charlie, one of the crossing points between east and west, now preserved both for posterity and for the ubiquitous selfie generation.

No trip to Berlin would be complete without a visit to the Holocaust Memorial, a haunting series of concrete slabs which remains eerily quiet despite its central

location. This deference to the Nazis’ victims comes in stark contrast to the site of Hitler’s Führerbunker – which is now a car park outside an unassuming block of flats!

The best way to see the city is on a walking tour, which depart regularly from the opposite the Hotel Adlon – where Michael Jackson famously dangled his infant son, Blanket, from a balcony! This is right next to one of the city’s most

The Brandenburg Gate is a symbol of freedom and unity.

Visit during October when the city's iconic buildings are illuminated for the Festival of Lights.

The Holocause Memorial is a haunting but beautiful spot for reflection and remembrance.

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Sections of the infamous Berlin Wall have been preserved for posterity.

famous landmarks, the Brandenburg Gate which, in turn, opens onto the Unter den Linden, a name that will be familiar to any reader of Cold War spy stories.

Despite its long history, Berlin has a youthful, buzzing vibe with the feeling that a party is never far away. All you have to do is find it.

Spot fun and thought-provoking graffiti on a walking tour of the city.

Visit the Norman Foster-designed dome built atop the Reichstag from which you can see down into the German Parliament's debating chamber.

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LIFESTYLE |travel

Visit the house where Anne Frank wrote her diary while in hiding.

Amsterdam Tulips come in every shape, size, colour and material at the famous Flower Market.

Amsterdam has one of Europe’s biggest flea markets where you will find everything from antiques to vintage clothes.

Another of Europe’s most cool capitals, when one thinks of Amsterdam the things that automatically come to mind are tulips, canals, bicycles and, ahem, the infamous red-light district. Leaving the latter aside, the city has plenty to offer, whether for a short break or a longer holiday.

The centre of Amsterdam is infinitely walkable and, in fact, there are several good walking tours. There are also bikes for rent, cheaply, all over the city – plus cycle lanes everywhere and very bike-friendly motorists.

Head down to the banks of the Amstel River, where you’ll find both the flea market and a gorgeous flower market offering every kind of tulip imaginable, including fakes so good you can hardly tell the difference.

In Amsterdam you are never far from a canal or a bicycle.

If your feet get tired, take a canal boat cruise where you’ll learn about the city’s history and pass many of its notable buildings, including the house in which the teen Anne Frank penned her diary whilst in hiding from the Nazis. The house itself is now a museum which is well worth a visit, but don’t forget your tissues.

Take a trip out into the surrounding countryside to see the windmills for which Holland is famous and then head back into the city to partake of the nightlife, for which Amsterdam is equally well-known. Round your evening off with a serving of fries accompanied by Ketchup and mayo, a typical Amsterdam treat,

From Mysteryland to Roots, Amsterdam hosts more than 300 festivals each year. Check out the calendar before you go.

The Rijksmuseum houses 7 million artworks and more than 35,000 books.

The Zaanse Schans windmills are easily 0000000000 reached on a half-day tour out of Amsterdam.

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May 2018

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Birthday Cruise

Shirley celebrated her birthday with close friends and family on a cruise.

Ed, Rupert, John, Dick, Jackie & Robbie

Dick & Shirley with their ‘seafaring’ friends & family

Shirley & Dick

Amitab, Milly, Ushil & Ghandhi

Anniversary Celebration Big Texas Barbeque & Waffle House celebrated its third year anniversary at its branch in Dragon Hotel & Resort Amwaj.

Silvia & Maher

66 May 2018

Jon & Milly

Kent & Danger

Anu, Rusty, Rad & Kayla

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YOUR BEST SOURCE FOR BEAUTY AND FASHION www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Around Town

Joz Group hosted its annual staff dinner party at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. Pictured: Emmiliea, Jennifer, managing director Nawal Joz, Nezha, Saraswathy & Buena.

An Art for Autism Awareness event took place at the Bahrain Financial Harbour. HE Justin Siberell, US Ambassador and wife, Arnavaz, attended the event.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds joined hands with KMCC Bahrain for “You For Bahrain” CSR intiative to clean Asry beach with the support of Muharraq municipality.

The American Women’s Association held its general meeting at the Movenpick Hotel.

Pictured: Arvanaz Siberell, wife of US Ambassador with the newly elected board.

CreaTree Services presented the premier launch of BAHIR, a novel by Monisha K Gumber.

A press conference was held to announce ‘Read’, a national reading campaign by the Ministry of Education and Isa Cultural Centre.

68 May 2018

Dragon City Bahrain held a Mother’s Day event at its premises in Diyar Al Muharraq.

The Royal University for Women won the Andrew Heschel International Award for Innovation in International Education, 2018.

Naseem initiative hosted an open discussion under the title of “How can I protect my child from bullying?” at Al Ayam Media Centre.

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Members of the PWA

Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad & Brothers

Annual Fundraiser The Pakistani Women’s Association held its Annual Fundraiser at Rivers Bahrain. The sold-out performance was by Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad & Brothers, the most talented Qawwals in the world today.

The PWA board with the Qawwals

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May 2018

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LIFESTYLE | opinion

HELLO SUMMER – WITH KIDS!

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani on the joys of parenthood and making memories.

S

o, summer is here already, Ramadan is around the corner, and the holidays are waiting for you. Picture this with me: Chilling by the pool, sipping a nice cool drink. Beach days, with a good book in hand, naps and late breakfasts, barbecues and late-night gatherings, evening strolls, manis and pedis whenever you feel like it… Oh wait, who am I kidding? The day you signed up for kids, you lost all those privileges. Did I even dare to say “nap”? Did you cringe when you read that? Oh gosh, I sincerely apologise, I am absolutely aware of the fact that the last time you did have a chance to take a nice nap was probably when you were in college, way before you had kids!

Once upon a time you had all the time in the world for yourself, you were the top of your priority list. You made your own plans and followed through. You could leave the house whenever you wanted. You could enjoy your showers, and trips to the bathroom without an audience. Yes, you had it all – once upon a time! However, even if the above sounds fabulous and the kind of life any woman would love to have, I know no mama would ever change what she has now for the world.

Those morning snuggles, even at crazy o’clock in the morning. Those little toes and fingers all over your face, hair and body like little

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acupuncture needles, poking through your skin. And, if you’re lucky, those tiny hands won’t have all kind of weird sticky stuff on them. But you wouldn’t have it any other way, would you?

Those little kicks and punches in the middle of the night while you’re in a deep, deep sleep and wake up with your heart racing, not knowing what has happened. Not showering for days, who cares? And skipping lunches and dinners because, duh – who has time for that?

In the middle of this chaos, we – mothers – make petite discoveries every single day about the true meaning of happiness. There are so many things that we want to save – an unending list of special moments of time, morning to night, that we would preserve if we knew how. We want to take these moments as they're happening and press them between a book’s pages; a daisy, a leaf, a ticket stub, forever safe. We never want to forget how our now feels. No amount of cool drinks by the beach or late-night gatherings could ever compete with the deliciousness of having those little pieces of our hearts in our arms.

So, yeah, you might have a different summer than the one you and I have in mind, but we both know it is absolutely worth it. And here’s a list of things that

both you and your family can enjoy. You can thank me later.

- Making cookies with your little ones. Nothing makes kids happier than getting busy and dirty at the same time. As a bonus you will have treats for when you’re sipping your tea later.

- Enjoy one of Bahrain’s fabulous beaches.

Note, some have entrance fees.

- Indulge in a scrumptious meal with your family at one of the Kingdom’s many outstanding restaurants.

- Take a trip to the National Museum to learn a little more about this gorgeous island.

- Summer calls for a visit to a waterpark. What better way to celebrate summer than getting a buzz from loads of splash and tons of fun.

- How about a whole day spent on a different island just 10 minutes away? Al Dar island is your spot! Clean beach, great food, your own cabana and a boat trip; need I say more?

There are so many lovely gems for mums and their families to have a perfect summer despite the heat. Late breakfasts and late nights might not be an option for you right now, but think of all those lovely memories you will make. So, enjoy these last few weeks of kids being in school, and start planning for the summer.

Chanelmama www.womanthismonth.com

horoscopes

Star

Gazing Raphael tells us what’s written in the stars this month

Taurus

Family life has never seemed so good and the future bodes well for home matters.

You’ll find yourself reflective throughout May and perhaps even discover an unexpected emotional side. Matters of the heart may be less trouble free and you should be careful not to speak before you think. Your misplaced words could cause more than just heartache to a partner and leave you ruing for a second chance you end up getting.

Gemini

Financial rewards are yours to enjoy this month and you may even splash out on a new car to celebrate. However, be sure to put aside a little for a rainy day, May could provide a few challenges on the property front. A new role may not work out the way you expected this year and you should consider a change.

You are not afraid of making bold decisions so, before you get stuck in a rut you might find hard to escape, take an alternative route for peace of mind.

Cancer

A family member may approach you looking for financial assistance in a business venture, you should make every effort to help.

Although their idea might sound ludicrous, you could be surprised by the personal rewards your investment returns. Career wise you could be struggling with a loss of identity and there is every indication that you need to get some advice as to where you go next.

Perhaps it is time to clear out the cobwebs and start again.

Leo

A relationship takes a new twist when you discover your partner may have a secret admirer. You could even come across certain information that leads you to question the direction of your love life. However, curb any immediate suspicions until you are more certain of the situation. The best course of action would be to take your concerns to the person in question. Don’t allow misplaced jealousy to take the reins. On the home front, you might feel like treating yourself.

Virgo

Could it be that the love bug has taken such a hold on you that you’re losing sight of other important things? Maybe you need to step back and analyse the situation a little better since the signs suggest that romantically you could be moving just that little bit faster than www.womanthismonth.com

your partner. To save yourself any potential embarrassment be sure and allow common sense to prevail. On the house front there could be reason to distrust those close to you when a relative begins to spread gossip.

Libra

Just recently you’ve been plagued by several niggling doubts that have caused you to reevaluate your life. Consequently, when an idle comment is made this month, it’s going to cut a little deeper than expected, putting a series of events in motion that will probably change a lot about how 2018 develops for you. By the time May is over, who you are, where you are and even what you are doing will all have changed because of this single event.

Scorpio

For a great number of you emotions will be high throughout May and this will have something to do with a young-hearted relative who has been on your mind for all the wrong reasons just lately. However, before you act in haste, be sure to judge the situation calmly. You could end up causing unnecessary friction. On the home front, a possible move that you weren’t in favour of will probably turn out better than expected.

Sagittarius

May will present you with an opportunity to live out a dream or put an idea into practice that may have seemed beyond your reach.

There is the prospect of travelling for several months and perhaps even renting a new property. However, a relationship may suffer and rumours of unrest concerning your partner may reach you. In this instance it is just unfounded and malicious gossip. In fact, there may be a long-term solution which allows your partner to move with you.

Capricorn

A conquest or hurdle, which has hindered your progress will finally become

surmountable. In turn, this will also allow you to achieve notable success at work and there could be the opportunity for promotion. On a more negative track, a close acquaintance may become ill and this will place an extra burden on you, forcing you to consider bringing in some outside help.

Aquarius

There is a great deal of upheaval coming your way this month. Plans that you thought were worked out thoroughly could go considerably off course and leave you in disarray whilst a partner’s lack of composure may only contribute to the confusion. You might need to take control of the situation. Also, a young child may give you reason for concern because of an illness. The slightest cause for concern should be acted upon.

Pisces

You are about to arrive at one of the biggest emotional crossroads of your life when you are presented with a choice that will decide the course you take in a relationship and help determine whether decisions made earlier were correct. Over the last few weeks, a great deal of uncertainty and hesitancy has crept into your life and your thinking could be somewhat clouded. The road to happiness lies open for you but you must first separate the fact from the fiction.

Aries

This month will see you breaking out of your self-imposed shell and taking a new grip on your life. If you’ve been feeling down or depressed, it all stops now! Life will become more of an enjoyable challenge and you will relish the chance to involve yourself in it.

Work will also bring about positive change and a new arena from which you will learn a great deal. You may employ the more ruthless side of your character and finally detach yourself from anyone holding you back.

May 2018

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last word

In Her Shoes Painter and artist Monica Vaziri tells us what makes her tick.

City or countryside?

Countryside.

Describe yourself in three words?

Positive energy, ambitious, loving.

What song is guaranteed to make you dance?

Monica Vaziri

When my son sings.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done?

Drove across the US all by myself.

What’s your favourite perfume or smell?

Chanel Chance.

Chocolate or fruit?

Fruit.

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May 2018

Someone from history you would love to meet and why?

Cyrus the great because he wrote the first declaration of human rights.

Something about yourself that not many people know.

I’m a kid at heart.

Favourite book or film?

It’s a tie between Frozen [cartoon] and Lucy. www.womanthismonth.com

wishing you

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