Woman This Month - November 2023

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES

November 2023 | Issue 244

A COOL GETAWAY Experience The Best That Winter Has To Offer At These Unique Locations

FASHION

INTERVIEW Mona ElRubi Represents Bahrain At World Tourism Day Event Anna Thackaray On Releasing Shamal Ozone In Her Shoes Layla AlTurabi

Magda Butrym's Beautiful AW 2023 Collection

BEAUTY OPINION Ouiam El Hasanni On Threenagers

Winter Beauty Essentials To Nourish Your Skin

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fashion

Elegant Edgy Exuberant For the Autumn and Winter 2023 season, Magda Butrym is unveiling her exploration of maximalism and opulence through her distinctive lens of modern femininity. Farah Baig explores the stunning collection.

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he Polish ready-to-wear brand Magda Butrym is known for celebrating feminine strength, through their spectacular designs featuring dramatic silhouettes, romantic drapes and floral details. Each piece embraces the power of dressing up with curated cutouts, luxurious textures, prints and contemporary Slavic craftsmanship.

These statement-making pieces are made for a woman, by a woman, This season, Magda Butrym’s collection is inspired by Japanese culture; the influence which is felt through shapes, prints and embroideries and is twisted with a Slavic touch. The stunning palette of cerulean blue, crimson red, blush pink and onyx black exude elegance. For the most part, colours this season are darker and more saturated, and we’re here for it.

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fashion

Masculine, voluminous jackets, strong lines of oversized pants and sculpted dresses convey confidence and comfort, while the elaborate contrasting lace and embellished details evoke sophisticated romanticism.

The brand’s oversized cocooning faux fur and shearling coats, are sure to be a winter essential with its exaggerated tailoring. Jumpsuits, blouses, floor-length and sultry mini dresses make this a head-turning collection.

When looking at the season’s signature piece – Magda turned her signature rose into a 3D sculpted flower dress construction, one can’t escape the feeling of this oversized silk rose being the proud celebration of powerful femininity.

This collection is an ode and celebration of every woman who wants to feel notable, first and foremost herself. It’s one that will inspire you and one that you’re sure not to forget.

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PEOPLE | interview

An Artist at Heart

The Republic of Egypt recently marked World Tourism Day with a celebration featuring 50 international artists. Representing the Kingdom of Bahrain was the renowned artist, Mona Elrubi. She speaks to Farah Baig about her experience at the event, her art, and the role of culture in propelling a country’s tourism.

“

I consider myself a mother, educator, and artist. It has taken a lot of work to be able to see myself in that light.”

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F

or 25 years, Mona Elrubi worked as a teacher at an international school, and as a coordinator for UNESCO. “Being an educator had a significant impact on my personality while working with UNESCO ignited my humanity; two aspects that are reflected through my eclectic art,” says Ms. Elrubi.

“As a coordinator for UNESCO, my job was to transform the organisation’s ideas and principles into interactive programmes for children, such as World Peace Day, acceptance of others, and concepts for children with disabilities. It’s important for students to understand these principles through activities that take root in their minds.

It was for these ideas that I won an honour from the Minister of Education in 2016,” she narrates.

When it comes to art, she first felt drawn to the mode of expression in the 90s and finally put brush to canvas in the year 2000. “I felt the need to express myself, express my opinion, emotions, and feelings. This was not always acceptable for various reasons, but art enabled me to openly express my perspective, intellectual orientation, and sense of rebellion,” she explains.

Ms. Elrubi’s art, which includes digital art and acrylic paintings, falls under the expression school of art and explores society, human rights and justice.

“One central feature in my art is the ability to bring life to emotions and shed light on humanity,” she says. “The art I create brings forth feelings of joy and sometimes feelings of repulsion, while some of my art could bring forth a sense of awe or a sense of fear. Most importantly I use my art to enlarge the scope of freedom.”

Art enthusiasts in and around the region have set their eyes on Mona’s art with her having exhibited her work at galleries in Bahrain, the GCC, Tunisia, Jordan, Egypt, Spain and India. “Notably, in 2022, I received an invitation from the Ministry of Culture in the Kingdom of Jordan to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its founding.

Such an important event in the history of the country and they nominated one of my art pieces to be exhibited alongside select artists from all over the world,” she says joyfully.

Adding to her milestone achievements, she was

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PEOPLEbystander | interview recently chosen to represent Bahrain in Egypt at the World Tourism Day 2023 celebration in September. The event was held at Marsa Allam City, under the auspices of Egypt’s Ministry of Culture Fine Arts Department and featured 50 fine artists from 22 countries.

“The seven-day event was a mind-opening experience; it showed the impact that art has not only on a cultural level but also on an industrial and economical level,” she says.

“During this experience we had the opportunity to visit several monuments and tourism attractions. We spent a full day at the Red Sea, and another at Luxor, and were given a historical brief of the monuments. We also experienced a lavish sea side space where we could create art. Finally, on the day of the exhibition, major business figures and art collectors attended,” she adds.

With Manama being named the capital of Gulf Tourism for 2024, she believes that there is a plethora of ideas, projects and events which could play a significant role. “We must collaborate with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and the Ministry of Information to highlight and further rejuvenate the tourism industry in the kingdom,” she says.

“We need to bring the Kingdom’s rich heritage, stories, culture, music, traditional attire, crafts,

La Med Brunch

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jewellery and traditions which were relevant during the Delmonian era into the spotlight. This would create a platform for local and international artists to come together to reflect their understanding and appreciation for the eternal civilisation,” she emphasises.

Commenting on the Kingdom’s art scene, she concludes: “The art movement in Bahrain emerged in 1952 with the establishment of art and literature clubs and communities.

Since then, Bahrain’s artists have proved to be shining stars on an international level in the art community.”

To view more of Mona’s art, follow @mona_elrubi on Instagram for more information.

A delightful brunch was held at La Med Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

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people

Illustrating Great Stories

The Artist and illustrator, Anna Thackray, is the creative force behind a unique trilogy inspired by the region. She tells Farah Baig about the recent release of Shamal Ozone at Bahrain Comic Con 2023.

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riting and illustrating a gripping story is no easy feat, yet Anna Thackray has effectively done just that.

She recently revisited Bahrain where she launched Shamal Ozone, the second book in her trilogy, to comic enthusiasts and pop culture fans.

Anna studied at the Winchester School of Fine Art, Southampton University in the UK and is a fine artist by profession. She moved with her husband to Bahrain in 2008 and soon fell in love with the kingdom and its people. Bahrain awakened Anna’s inner storyteller and inspired her imagination, one of the reasons for which she will “forever love and appreciate this small but mighty island.”

Shamal Ozone continues the saga of The Chronicles of Shamal, an epic adventure originating from Bahrain. The comic has been in the making since 2016, with Anna undertaking all aspects of creation including storyline, illustration, colouring and production.

“I am delighted to share that both The Chronicles of Shamal and Shamal Ozone are now available in English and Arabic too. Depicting familiar scenes from Bahrain, and also from the UAE in Ozone, the target audience for The Chronicles of Shamal is diverse, crossing cultural, age and language boundaries, however, as many aspects of the story are inspired and influenced by local stories, I wanted Arabic versions as well,” explains Anna.

Most recently, apart from continuing Shamal’s story, Anna has been involved with making sustainable art and giving classes to children and interested adults on how to utilise and turn things that would otherwise be deemed rubbish into art pieces. Her informative master class was held at Saadiyat Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, UAE where she created a life-size Hawksbill Turtle out of 30 discarded water bottles and building rubble. One of the themes that is constant through all her work is the message of conserving our environment.

To check out more of Anna’s work, follow @shamalcomics on Instagram.

Shamal Ozone combines Bahrain’s old folklore and fables with a warning of climate change and the inherent threat it imposes on all life. “It’s a whirlwind continuation of the story, taking the readers on a journey from Bahrain to the UAE and much further,” says Anna.

As the story continues, Shamal and his trusty companions, a falcon and a stallion, awakened from their graves by the Tree of Life, come to the rescue when the situation becomes dire, along with other characters from the first book. A tumultuous adventure ensues, taking the readers on a thrilling journey from the past to present and the future.

“Similar to the first book, Shamal Ozone has been a labour of love. I continued to draw inspiration from the Kingdom of Bahrain, the people, the scenery, the weather and the old fables told by many Bahraini friends. The story lingers in me and the adventures of Shamal and his comrades will continue,” she says.

“This instalment of the series sees Shamal travelling to the UAE, fighting evil as he goes along. However, Shamal was born in Bahrain, the island is his home and he will always return,” she adds.

In 2017, Anna relocated to Abu Dhabi, UAE; however – like Shamal – she keeps returning to Bahrain which she feels is her Middle Eastern home.

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Breakfast at Nissan

bystander Nissan Bahrain hosted the Car Girls of Bahrain Club at its showroom in Sitra.

Bahrain India Society

Bahrain India Society hosted a meet and greet luncheon at Crowne Plaza Bahrain along with HE Vinod K. Jacod, Indian Ambassador.

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November 2023

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BEAUTY | news

MAKE A STATEMENT WITH REALHER The female empowerment makeup brand, REALHER is all about expressing your individuality.

With a meaningful affirmation, each product is intended to enhance inner and outer beauty and motivate your own personal journey.

This winter, we’re in love with REALHER’s nourishing lipsticks. From neutral tones to vibrant shades, their specially formulated Moisturising Lipstick collection truly passes the test of time.

And over time, encapsulated water is released from the lipstick, providing hydration to your lips.

Not only is each shade infused with jojoba seed oil, shea butter, and vitamin E, but each lipstick also provides all-day hydration with a creamy, smooth application.

You can find these lipsticks and other great REALHER products on Beauty Ethic, a brand-new e-commerce platform offering sustainable, vegan and cruelty-free products across the region.

Available at beautyethic.com.

WINTER 2023

Winter is finally here, and while the drop in temperatures might be welcome, the adverse effects to our skin is certainly not. This winter Farah Baig brings shares her recommendations for skincare products that will nourish your skin including a great cleanser, intensely moisturising anti-aging creams, nourishing lipstick and even great eye essentials to keep you on trend.

AAVRANI’S PURIFYING EFFECTS The hunt for clean and effective beauty products is never-ending, but we’re here to make it a little easier.

Made with just 11 ingredients, Aavrani’s purifying oil-based cleaner is just what you need for your daily beauty routine.

This ultra-gentle yet powerful formula leaves your face clean and hydrated without any oily residue. It’s a 2-in-1 hybrid solution that acts as a daily cleanser and a makeup remover for all skin types. Use alone to cleanse the skin and remove impurities or with a washcloth to effectively lift makeup and gently cleanse without stripping the skin.

To formulate this cleanser, steam-distilled Sandalwood Oil is combined with Camellia Flowers and Aloe. These ingredients effectively soothe and nourish skin while removing excess oil, makeup, dirt, and other impurities.

This powerful cleanser not only aids in calming the skin, but also lifts impurities and minimise the appearance of blemishes, leaving the skin feel clean and refreshed.

This cleanser is made without silicones, mineral oil, parabens, PEGs, microplastics, petrolatum, formaldehyde donors or animal cruelty.

Available at mudraayurveda.com.

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BEAUTY | news

Dr.Dennis Gross

Hyaluronic Marine Oil-Free Moisture Cushion 50ml

This oil free light weight moisturiser from Dr.Dennis Gross hyaluronic marine technology collection instantly hydrates and plumps for fresh feeling skin without unwanted shine and greasy feeling. Key ingredients Japanese marine algee with B vitamins and hyaluronic acid work together to provide rich hydration. While amino acids from the algee improves the skin elasticity and aloe vera soothes the skin.

The formula is hypoallergenic, and is suitable for all skin types including sensitive.

To be used morning and night.

Available at blue-magnolia.net

Dr.Dennis Gross

Hyaluronic Marine Hydration Booster 30ml

A lightweight in texture hydrating concentrate that plumps the skin, improves rough texture and smoothes the appearance of dry fine lines. Key ingredients hyaluronic acid provides long lasting hydration and amino acids and B vitamins from marine algee improve skin elasticity and moisture level. While evening primrose oil soothes the skin. To be used morning and night before moisturiser and suitable for all skin types.

Available at blue-magnolia.net

Dr.Dennis Gross

Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream 60ml

Intensely hydrating cream that visibly lifts, reduces signs of aging, repairs the skin moisture barrier and leaves the skin with a soft and matte finish. Dr. Dennis Gross advanced retinol + ferulic technology is formulated with a phyto-retinol blend that combines two types of retinol, bakuchiol, ferulic acid and antioxidant rambutan to firm, plump, smooth fine lines and wrinkles and support the skin’s natural collagen production.

Bakuchiol strengthens the skin moisture barrier while hyaluronic acid and glycerine provide long lasting hydration. Suitable for all skin types. To be used morning and night.

Available at blue-magnolia.net Womanthismonth.com

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LIFESTYLE | opinion

The Green Boardroom In her previous articles, Chartered Manager Eman Deabil (DipESG, PfMP, IPMO-P, SIP) has spoken extensively about the growing need to establish sustainable business practices in general. In her latest piece, she talks about sustainability in the boardroom in particular and the board of directors’ role in embracing a clear agenda and driving change from the top.

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still remember the days, more than 10 years ago, when we were printing out hundreds of pages to prepare packs for the board of directors’ meeting in one of the organisations I worked for. It was a tedious non-value adding task, knowing that most of these packs will be shredded right after the meeting!

Thankfully, in that same organisation, we proposed buying tablet computers for the board members and the proposal was accepted.

Yet to ensure that such proposal would be implemented successfully, we had to establish awareness and educate board members on the ‘why’ and ‘how’; ‘why’ we changed the status quo and switched to such practice (i.e. to save the environment), and ‘how’ they can leverage the new tools. Although at that time, sustainability was not receiving the same amount of attention it is receiving today!

In my previous articles, I spoke about the growing need to establish sustainability

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practices in general. Here, I will speak about sustainability in the boardroom in particular.

Here is my advice for companies to lead change starting from the highest level.

1. The board should set a clear sustainability vision and strategy with clear objectives and targets, which wouldn’t be possible without conducting a thorough ‘materiality assessment’ to identify the key material topics that the organisation should focus on and address in its strategy. The same should be aligned with the organisation’s business strategy and should be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.

2. The board should establish a sustainability governance structure where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined. This may involve establishing a sustainability committee or appointing a Chief Sustainability Officer.

3. The board should look at all decisions through a sustainability lens. This may include considering the environmental, social and governance impacts of all major decisions (e.g. assessing credit applications taking sustainability into account, assessing investment decisions, etc.).

4. The board should ensure disclosing transparent, comprehensive and accurate sustainability performance; this may involve publishing a sustainability report or integrating sustainability metrics into the annual report.

5. Most importantly, the board should admit that ‘Sustainability’ is a new business dimension where lack of knowledge could hinder them from making the right decisions, so acquiring and building the required knowledge around it is key, the same should be established across the organisation.

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LIFESTYLE | opinion bystander In addition to these general best practices, there are a few specific things that boards can do to make their own meetings more sustainable, such as: • Hold meetings electronically and make it the first preferred option whenever possible. This will reduce carbon emissions (commuting and travelling) and paper waste. It will also reduce the cost needed for holding board meetings (e.g. tickets, accommodation, food and beverages, etc.). Further, it will save all board members time, instead of consuming time to commute/travel, they can be present for the duration of the meeting only.

• Calculate the carbon emissions caused by board meetings, and then offset the carbon footprint of it. This can be done by planting trees or investing in renewable energy projects.

• Embrace digital means; especially the technologies that enable boards to improve their performance and governance; this may include smart TVs, smartphones, web conferencing, tablets, secure messaging tools and boardroom secured portals. Below are some examples: o Board assessment tools enable a board to efficiently evaluate its own performance and that of its committees. o Board portals: centralised and highly secure digital platforms that provide secure storage

for sharing of board meeting documents such as corporate plans and budgets. o Online collaboration tools: such as online whiteboards that can be used to conduct virtual brainstorming sessions. o Digital voting tools that can be used to vote on major decisions. o Meeting facilitation tools (AI enabled) that can take notes, document minutes of meetings, and actions agreed.

• Incentivised Pay: Are executives formally incentivised to perform on sustainability?

From the above, we can conclude that boards of directors have a critical role to play; they can be the driving force to enable and implement sustainability inside their organisations.

Nevertheless, they must ensure that their organisations contribute and support a longterm sustainable value creation.

Having said the above, the board’s role is not limited to what’s stated above, as boards can play a leading role in making their organisations more sustainable. Not only by breaching about it, but by truly practicing its principles and ensuring that it’s reflected in the following – at minimum: • Board Diversity: The diversity of directors’ skills and experience, the diversity of directors’ backgrounds, the number of female directors and the average age and experience of directors.

• Board Independence: The percentage of independent directors on the board, the number of committees chaired by independent directors and the independence of the board’s committees.

• Board Oversight: The frequency of board meetings, the number of hours spent by directors on board activities and the board’s

Bahrain Jazz Fest Launch

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review of key ESG risks and opportunities.

The press meet for the 7th BNP Paribas Bahrain Jazz Fest 2023 was hosted at The Majlis, The Royal Golf Club, Riffa supported by the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority.

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LIFESTYLE | parenting

Do You Have a

‘Threenager’ In Your House?

If you’re dealing with a difficult threeyear-old, you might want to read this.

Ouiam El Hassani shares her five observations about this age group and her tips for dealing with them.

“I’ll do it by myself!” !”

“No, I don’t want it

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hese are statements you probably have heard countless times from your toddler—a.k.a your sassy threenager. In the blink of an eye, they can go from a sweet and loving child who wants millions of hugs and kisses, to a volatile, stubborn little ‘teen’.

ager: n e e r h t n of a o i t i n th i f e D ving wi

Even though they can be unknowingly rude, this developmental stage serves as a major learning experience for both kids and their parents.

It’s a time for them to grow into themselves, and a time for parents to give them the space to do that while also showing them how to appropriately express who they are.

If you’ve got a threenager in your house, you know what a challenge it can be, but before you respond to this stage with your own sassiness, remember that it’s more important to model good behavior than it is to shut that threenager down.

li human eir e l t t i l e ng to th t th i d r o c c oa bu you, wh ficate is three, e is rti birth ce to their attitud ng accordi ger. a teena

Three-year-olds go through some major life transitions at this stage in their lives:

1.‘Threenagers’ are learning to manage their emotions.

Around the age of three, children start to understand their emotions. They might even begin identifying their feelings with words. However, they’re still not developmentally ready to control their emotions. If they think something is funny, they’ll laugh uncontrollably. If something happens and they feel sad, they cry inconsolably.

Their emotions are intense and can seem overwhelming— try to just be patient and understand that, at three, they don’t have the capacity to properly control their emotions.

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2.They want instant gratification.

Three-year-olds don’t have much impulse control. If they feel the need to do something, they’ll act on it without much thought.

For example, they might take the chocolate out of your purse even after you’ve said “No” or they might hit another kid when they get mad. Delayed gratification has to be learned over time, and it isn’t something three-year-olds fully understand.

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LIFESTYLE bystander | parenting

3.They’re developing a sense of humour.

Three-year-olds are hilarious! At this stage, they are developing a real sense of humour. They love to make everyone around them laugh. They find talking about things like poo poo and pee to be very entertaining. Though your taste in humour might be slightly different, remember that at this stage, three-year-olds are learning how to be funny.

4. They’re learning empathy.

Empathy starts to develop in children around age three. They can relate to others when they’re hurt, and you can get a response from them when you ask how they’re feeling. They might also cry if they think they hurt you, especially if they didn’t mean to.

5. They’re learning to play with others.

At this age, kids learn to play with others. Before that there’s a lot of parallel play, but at this age, they start to engage with each other. They may even start asking you to play with them, too!

Your baby is growing up quickly and turning into his or her own person. As scary as that may be, it’s also very exciting to see your children grow into themselves. They start to have their own likes and dislikes, personalities and curiosity for life.

Dandiya Utsav

Indian Ladies Association in collaboration with LULU hypermarket hosted the Dandiya Utsav 2023 at Crowne Plaza, Bahrain.

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travel

Prague, Czech Republic

Jigokudani Money park, Japan

It’s not every day that you get to see a family of monkeys hanging out in a hot spring, but that is precisely what you can expect right here. At the Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can marvel at the adorable snow monkeys as they frolic and relax in the natural hot springs amidst the snowy landscape.

You can take a hike through the serene forest trails surrounding the park, enjoying the tranquility of nature. The park provides you with the perfect opportunity to capture beautiful photos of these unique macaques against the picturesque snowy backdrop.

A Cool y a w a t Ge end-of-year n a g in n n Pla gs cool in h t p e e K getaway? the best e c n ie r e p x and e to offer at s a h r e t in w that e locations. u iq n u e s e h t

Winter in Prague offers a fairytalelike experience. There are several quintessential winter experiences you can have in Prague like exploring the enchanting Christmas markets, ice skating in the Old Town Square, taking a walk along the picturesque Charles Bridge, and warming up with delicious Czech food. While in Prague, you must also visit Prague Castle and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered city or take a boat tour on the Vltava River to create unforgettable winter memories.

Shimla, India

Winter in Shimla, India, is a charming and picturesque experience.

Enjoy the snowfall and go skiing or snowboarding in Kufri. Take a stroll on the Mall Road and indulge in hot chocolate and the delicious local cuisine. Visit the iconic Christ Church and enjoy the panoramic views from the Jakhoo Hill. Shimla also hosts an ice skating carnival during winter. Be sure to see a very different side of India, and embrace the beauty of this hill station during the winter months.

Lapland, Finland

Lapland, Finland is a winter wonderland full of exciting activities.

It’s here that you can experience some things that you can only imagine seeing on TV like dog sledding, embarking on a reindeer safari, witnessing the stunning Northern Lights, staying at an ice hotel or cross-country skiing. In fact, you can even live your childhood dream and visit Santa Claus Village. Lapland offers a magical winter experience like no other.

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travel

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Winter at Lake Bled, Slovenia offers a charming escape with activities such as ice-skating on the frozen lake, winter hiking to stunning viewpoints, sledding down hills, and exploring the medieval Bled Castle. Warm up with hot beverages by the lake and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Lake Bled in winter is a dreamy destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Tallinn, Estonia

During winter, Tallinn, Estonia offers a host of activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a stroll through the charming Old Town, adorned with snow-covered cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.

Experience the magic of ice skating at one of the outdoor rinks in the city. Warm up with a traditional Estonian beverage or visit cosy cafes to indulge in hearty local dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Christmas markets and experience the festive atmosphere.

Lithuania

Lithuania is a picturesque country in Europe which is lesser known by people in our region. The cities of Vilnius and Kaunas are popular for their beauty, and certainly should be added to your list if you’re planning a winter getaway. Make sure to pay a visit to the historic Trakai Castle in Lithuania which organises traditional winter festivals that include outdoor activities like ice-skating and ice fishing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You can also tuck into some authentic Lithuanian cuisine at the finest restaurants including delicious Potato Blinis, hot pancakes served with sour cream, or some cold beet soup!

Visitors can also capture stunning winter photographs and relax at the cities’ saunas. The country promises a memorable experience for all!

New York, USA

Winter in New York offers a plethora of activities. You can ice skate at Rockefeller Center, explore Central Park, visit holiday markets like Union Square, watch Broadway shows, or enjoy the stunning views from the Empire State Building. Indulge in warm comfort food and experience the magical holiday atmosphere that only New York can provide.

Harbin, China

If you’re in need of a truly special winter experience, you might want to check out the world-famous Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. This unique event gives you the opportunity to marvel at stunning ice sculptures, go ice skating on the Songhua River, enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Harbin is a one-of-a-kind winter paradise not to be missed.

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bystander

In Harmony Group Art Exhibition

An Art Exhibition was held at Bahrain Artistic Frames Centre, Budaiya, featuring several artists in Bahrain.

Art Exhibition

US Ambassador, Steven C. Bondy, and Meghan Bondy hosted the official unveiling of the American Residence Art Exhibition at the Ambassador’s residence.

Tales of Italian Fashion

Italian Ambassador, HE Paolo Amadei, in collaboration with the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research and with the support of Gulf Air hosted the ‘Tales of Italian Fashion Exhibition” in presence of the Honorary President of the prestigious Italian House of Fashion Gattinoni & Curator of the exhibition Stefano Dominella.

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last word

If you were planning a picnic, what would we find in your basket?

Do you have any pets? If yes, what makes it special?

I’ve never owned a pet before, but if I were to choose one, I would go with a Dalmatian puppy. The reason is that they have such a unique and striking appearance with their spots. They’re like walking pieces of art!

Fruits, sandwiches and water.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

It’s better to try and fail than not to try at all.

You are on the path to great success. Would you rather teleport or enjoy the journey?

I prefer to embrace the journey towards great success rather than being instantly teleported to it, because the process of working towards success allows me to grow, learn and appreciate the value of my achievements. Each step along the way teaches me valuable lessons, builds my character and strengthens my resilience.

In Her Shoes Which is worse: Thursday night traffic or Sunday morning traffic?

Thursday nights when the traffic is a nightmare! It starts as early as 5pm and feels like it never ends. It’s like a never-ending queue of cars, dampening the thrill of going out.

Creative, communicative and integrous – these are just some of the words that describe The K Hotel’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Layla AlTurabi. Let’s take a walk in her shoes!

Do you have any hidden talents?

I’m an artist. I’m really into painting figurative abstract art because it lets me express myself in a special way. It’s like bringing life to the canvas through colours, shapes and emotions. My favourite painting of mine is ‘Bloody Mary’ (as seen above) which embodies a sense of intensity and raw emotion. The bold and vibrant colours, the dynamic brushstrokes, and the abstract forms create a feeling of passion and energy.

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Scan to watch the full interview

Sky diving or bungee jumping?

Neither.

What would be a dream travel destination for you?

Iceland to see the magical phenomenon of the Northern Lights. They are absolutely breathtaking and have always fascinated me.

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advertisers index EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Mohamed Salahuddin Consulting Engineering Bureau

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Education Malaysia

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Pegasus Real Estate

The British School of Bahrain

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RESTAURANTS & CAFES

HOTELS & SERVICED RESIDENCES

David’s Stir Fry Crazy

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InterContinental Regency Bahrain

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Maki

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Ramee Grand

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The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge

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Swiss-Belresidences Juffair

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The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

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The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa

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JEWELLERY & WATCHES Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Roberto Coin)

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MEDICAL & DENTAL SERVICES Al Hilal Hospital Company

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American Mission Hospital

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MOTORING Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes)

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Al Haddad Vehicle Rental & Leasing (Bestune)

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Behbehani Brothers Co.(Porsche)

IFC

First Motors (Hyundai)

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OTHERS Abdulrahman Khalil Almoayyed Group (JOTUN)

3

BMMI (Alosra Supermarket)

27

British Chamber of Commerce Bahrain (Poppy Ball)

IBC

Kadi Group

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JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

Last year, His Holiness Pope Francis visited Bahrain at the invitation of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. For the first time, Senior Translator and News Editor, Fatima Al Najem, shares with us her eyewitness account of the experience as one of the very few media invitees who were granted full access to the monumental occasion.

W

hen I was told that I would be among the media flying with His Holiness Pope Francis to Bahrain, I felt honoured and humbled.

I know it is given to very few people to have such a chance, and I was thrilled with the oncein-a-life opportunity to be flying with such a distinguished global figure.

HH Pope Francis’ trip to Bahrain was highly significant in fostering peace, peaceful coexistence and mutual acceptance and tolerance – the very values that His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has been promoting and advancing across the world thanks to a plethora of laudable initiatives.

The media group flew to Rome where we would meet members of the papal delegation. When we sat with them and discussed some matters, I was confident. We were united in our visions.

Living in Bahrain has taught me that in my country, the variety of origins, the diversity of cultures and the multiplicity of languages were not an issue, but a resource. Not a challenge, but an opportunity.

On the flight from Rome to Bahrain, we saw Pope Francis only for fleeting minutes when he came to greet us with a great smile. We were impressed with the impeccable organisation and the great attention to all details.

During HH the Pope’s visit to Bahrain, we attended some of the events where he addressed various audiences, young and old, men and women, religious figures and common people, and shared his commitment to peace, fraternity, tolerance and coexistence and stressed that “unity is not sameness” and that “it is unity in diversity.“ Following a highly successful historic visit, Pope Francis left Bahrain, and we flew back with him on the Gulf Air plane to Rome. The Vatican does not have its own plane.

2

November 2023

During the flight back, we were told that HH the Pope would answer questions. I opted to go first and I found myself sitting face to face with Pope Francis. His Holiness in his white cassock and I in my black abaya. Two different worlds in looks, but united in passion for peace.

He recognised my identity and accepted me the way I am.

We got along quickly. I spontaneously informed him that my birthday coincided with the date of his election as Pope. He reacted positively and joked about it. The light tone set off a cordial and pleasant conversation.

When I asked him about the outcome of his historic visit to Bahrain, he responded that it was “a visit of encounter” and that “I discovered something new that helps me to understand and interact more with people.”

The conversation went on for some minutes, and at the end Pope Francis told me: “Pray for me, not against me” before breaking into a hearty laughter.

I laughed and then said my goodbyes and moved back to my seat.

I was astonished by his request. Pope Francis asking me to pray for him, not against him?

That is one request that I will always recall with great fondness.

Today, one year later, I recall every second of the conversation we had and of the two trips we shared and the events that I attended.

I am so grateful to all those who made my encounters with Pope Francis possible and facilitated my meeting with him. The encounter was so spontaneous and positive, and especially, so void of prejudices and bias.

As for Bahrain, the Pope’s historic visit will live on in the Kingdom where he touched the hearts and lives of so many people from the Kingdom and abroad.

He was accorded the warmest welcome by HM King Hamad who welcomed him to Bahrain with your blessed and historic visit to the land of ancient civilisations stretching back through the ages, to a country of tolerance, coexistence and peace.”

Pope Francis was regarded by the thousands of people who rushed to see him at the National Stadium as an inspirational figure, holding up a candle illuminating a model of interfaith dialogue that infuses togetherness and hope in the world.

He rewarded everyone with prayers, and a deep call to work together.

“Let us work together! Let us work in the service of togetherness and hope!” he said on his first day in the Kingdom.

In his addresses, Pope Francis said that “Bahrain is a living image of coexistence in diversity, pluralism of ideas, customs and traditions.”

It’s something we should continue to be proud of.

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