The Source Magazine - Issue 12 - English

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The

Source

Issue 12 - 24 May 2012

Be Inspired

with the Sheikha Shamsa Award

MBA Worth the effort?

Giving Back making a difference in Sri Lanka

Captivating Thailand.

Explore Bangkok’s bustling markets and ancient temples, or if you prefer, escape to Phuket for its crystal waters, white beaches and the dazzling smiles of the locals.

Whatever you’re looking for, Thailand has it all and with our great fares and all-inclusive holiday packages there has never been a better time to explore.

3 NIGHT PACKAGES Phuket AED 2,370 per person* Bangkok AED 2,390 per person* Includes flights, transfers, accommodation and breakfast.

Flights also available from just AED 1,999** Book by 31 May. Travel by 15 June.

Flights: 02 599 0000 etihad.com Packages: 800 2324 Or visit your local Etihad shop or travel agent

*Holiday Packages: Travel until 15 June. Terms and conditions apply. Prices are starting prices per person sharing a twin room for 3 nights with breakfast and airport transfers.

Prices include return Economy Class nonstop flights on Etihad Airways to Bangkok and on airberlin to Phuket from Abu Dhabi and are inclusive of all applicable taxes. **Flight fares: Outbound travel until 10 June and return by 15 June. The Bangkok fare is valid for Etihad flights EY403/404 only with outbound travel not permitted on Wednesdays & Thursdays. The Phuket flight is operated by airberlin. Fares include taxes and surcharges but exclude service fees. Additional surcharges may apply at the time of booking. All fares are subject to availability.

The

Source

5

NEWS

7

SPORTS

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FEATURE We chat to a group of HCT student’s about their recent aid-giving trip to Sri Lanka

11 STUFF for men The Microsoft Surface brings the future of technology to the here and now 12 Lifestyle Paddle Boarding is the new fitness craze sweeping the nation Exotic Interiors 13 URBAN WOMAN Get glam with the Glambox 14 AL MAJLIS Magnificently Magical, a chat with Emirati magician Sultan Al Nuaimi 15 EDUCATION Preparing students for their day jobs 18 DIARY

Issue 12

Contents

Letter from the Editor Well, after last week’s little spot of escapism we’re back to reality and it seems that, while we were daydreaming, summer truly crept up on us. As the temperatures rise, we hope to keep you entertained with everything that’s happening in The Source this week.

First up, we have a story of philanthropy; 12 Emirati students who travelled to Sri Lanka to dedicate their time helping school kids and the elderly. Their journey opened their eyes to life outside the Emirates and helped them learn some valuable lessons.

Saturday 26th is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day and, in Al Majlis, we chat to Sultan Al Nuaimi, a young Emirati who was diagnosed with the condition as a teenager but has battled through to become a top magician and illusionist.

In My World, I take you on a hunt for the mythical monster Nessie, who is said to reside at the bottom of the beautiful Loch Ness, deep in the Scottish Highlands. Alex tells us how your coffee table could soon be taking on a whole new hi-tech role, while in Urban Woman we explains the popular home beauty service ‘Glambox’.

19 @ THE MOVIES 20 FROM OUR READERS 21 NEED TO KNOW 22 BE INSPIRED The Sheikha Shamsa Award 24 MY WORLD Hunting for Nessie in the Highlands of Scotland

Lots of news, sports, education and events wrap up another week here at The Source.

ka

Happy reading!

26 MY CITY Family dining at Chili’s

kir S y e l Hay

27 BUSINESS MBA’s. Worth the investment?

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Managing Director Mona Hennawi | Editor In Chief Mahra Saeed Al Muhairi Associate Editor Khudayja Saloojee | Senior Graphic Designer Ghulmiyyah Ghulmiyyah Senior Arabic Editor Sami Rashid | Senior Translator Narmeen Al Assad | Translator Hanadi Jamil Finance & Administration Manager Haneen Farid | Sales & Advertising Joe Mathew | Distribution Manager Jeff Grigsby Contributing Writers | Rachel Duggan, Bob Studholme, Alex Hennawi To Contact Us +971 3 7668111 info@thesourceuae.com www.thesourceuae.com

Advertising advertising@thesourceuae.com

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No part of this publication or content, thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of The Source Magazine, published by Smart Design Publishing, in writing. The Source Magazine and Smart Design Publishing accept no responsibility, however caused, for errors or omissions contained in this publication. Any articles and/or images included in this publication and/or views and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The Source Magazine and Smart Design Publishing, and any of its affiliates, but remain solely those of the author(s). Such publications have been included for general reference and the purpose of fair review. Copyright © 2011 by The Source and Smart Design Publishing, and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

@thesourceuae

NEWS

Dress Code Drama in UAE This week has seen the subject of dress code in the UAE take centre stage in the social media spectrum.

Under the hash tag ‘UAE Dress Code’, the campaign aims to promote modest dressing throughout the country.

Initiated by Emirati’s Hanan Al Rayes, from Al Ain, and Asma Al Muhairi from Abu Dhabi, the appeal continues to gather momentum and has attracted attention from prominent UAE personalities.

The two women decided it was time to do something about the problem after noticing a rise of scantily dressed women in malls. A few years ago, a British woman provoked outrage after

arguing with an Emirati woman who scolded her for wearing only a bikini in Dubai Mall. As a result of this, posters were displayed in public areas asking people to dress respectfully. The impact, however, was not huge and Hanan Al Rayes believes that the time has come for the issue to be brought back into public view.

With the debate alighting sites like Twitter, supporters believe real change could take place. Action would be an example of how social media really can help bring about policy change in society.

Emirati activist Jalal Bin Thaneya, has urged supporters of the cause to “write an email and call mall management” in order to try to change their dress code policy. The campaign does not wish for women to completely cover themselves, in fact far from it. It merely urges people not to cross certain limits in public places as a courtesy to the locals and their Muslim culture.

on how the campaign should be taken further. Catriona, an Irish woman who has been in the UAE for five years said, “I’ve seen the signs in the malls, but they don’t really stand out. If I was here as a tourist, I’d probably be too busy looking at all the cool things in the malls to notice a few posters.” She believes that the rules need to be more heavily enforced for things to change.

However, Emirati Naeem Al Baloushi believes that the rules should be followed out of respect, rather than enforcement.

If you want to support the cause, then follow @UAEDresscode on twitter.

Many believe that the problem could simply be down to a lack of awareness. Recently, Abu Dhabi has been involved in some heavy tourist orientated marketing campaigns, perhaps not to the same extent as Dubai, but all the same encouraging people to come and visit the country.

When these holidays are sold it is very rare that the tourists buying them are informed of such laws and policies.

The suggestion of a tourist handbook or an advertising campaign, focused on modest dressing, has been put forward as one way of changing the situation.

The debate has brought discussion

Al Ain Zoo welcomes Bustards Al Ain Zoo this week welcomed two new Kori Bustards to the Spoonbill Aviary, further enhancing the zoo’s collection of over 300 birds.

The Kori-Bustard is a large bird, hailing from Eastern and Southern Africa and characterized by its mottled grayishbuff coloring and white stripes over each eye. The bird is more carnivorous than other species of bustards,

feeding on mammals, lizards, chicks and insects as well as the typical berries and seeds.

Assistant Associate Veterinarian, Majid Al Qassimi, said “This beautiful unusual species further increases the diversity of the birds on exhibit at Al Ain Zoo, with our aviary also housing Spoonbill, Hadada Ibis and Maca.” thesourceuae.com

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NEWS

Chelsea are Champions English Premiership side Chelsea grabbed their first ever Champions League victory on Saturday after a dramatic game against Germany’s Bayern Munich, which ended in a heart-pounding penalty shootout.

Didier Drogba was hailed a hero after heading home a last gasp equalizer, forcing the game into scoreless extra time. Drogba shined again in the penalty kick out. With the score level after four kicks each side, the Ivory Coast National fired the winning shot past Bayern’s keeper to secure the title for his beloved Chelsea.

now has to make the tough decision of whether to extend interim coach Roberto Di Matteo’s contract or appoint someone new. Di Matteo refused to comment on future plans saying “whatever the future holds for me, I’d be happy.”

Speculation also exists over man of the match Drogba’s future at the club after an impressive eight years service.

Despite these demanding decisions, Stamford Bridge is where this year’s trophy now lies and the city of Chelsea certainly celebrated in style as the team returned from the continent.

Russian owner Roman Abramovich

UAE at NATO Summit Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nayhan, Foreign Minister of the UAE, lead the UAE delegation in talks with Nato leaders at the 25th summit, recently held in Chicago.

Heads of states and leaders from 60 participating countries attended the two-day summit where Nato’s aim was to drive forward the key principles and policies that will shape the Alliance of 2020. It also planned to deliver decisions taken at the Lisbon Summit in 2010 and turn them into actual programs and initiatives.

The summit focused primarily on three main themes. Firstly, the Alliance’s commitment to help Afghanistan through the transition period.

Secondly, ensuring the Alliance has the capabilities it requires to defend its people and country and the ability to deal with challenges of the 21st century; and finally, to strengthen Nato’s allies across the globe.

ObesE kids at Risk of Heart Disease Researchers at United Arab Emirates University have discovered that high rates of obesity amongst children can increase their risk of diabetes and cardiac disease.

The university conducted studies on over 1000 students, including both nationals and non-nationals aged 12 to 18. Cholesterol levels and blood pressure were measured as well as height and body weight. The results showed that, while a similar 6

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number of Emaratis and expatriates were overweight (22 and 20 per cent respectively), the percentage of national obesity is far higher than that of non-nationals. 45 per cent of Emirati boys are obese.

Associate Professor of Community Medicine at UAEU and author of the research campaign, Dr. Syed Shah suggested that the high numbers of obesity in boys could be linked to a sedentary lifestyle. “Boys make more

frequent trips to fast-food restaurants and have longer spans of physical inactivity.” He also characterized cholesterol as the main factor behind obesity.

The next phase of the study, which looks at the link between obesity between parents and their children, will be released next month.

This is an edited version of an original story that appeared in The National on May 20, 2012. For the full version, please go to www.thenational.ae

SPORTS

Surf’s Up in the Capital Almost 20 teams from across the country, participated in the final Stand Up Paddle race for the UAE SUP National League held at the Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yachting Club (ADSYC) last weekend.

Surf Dubai in first position, followed by his club-mate Jakub Sczsceny and, in third spot, Luke Cunningham of the Pau Hana Board, UAESUP.

The race took place under the patronage of His Highnesses Sheikh Hazza and Sheikh Ahmed bin Zayed al Nahyan and provided some spectacular viewing.

The Short 3km Women’s race was won by Karina Bensemeen of Naish Board, Surf Dubai. An anonymous racer took second place and Mulyani Sanrang came in third position, both representing Pau Hau Board, UAESUP.

In the 6km Elite men’s race, three of the best riders in the UAE went head to head in a bit to grab the title. Initially, it was Luke Cunningham who took the lead. However; the final results were to show Daniel Van Dooren of F-One,

The 1km Sprint race was won by Kacper Sczscny, again representing the F-One Board, Surf Dubai. Parveen Naligan and Drave Everitt, both of Pau Hana Board, UAESUP, came second and third, respectively.

UAE SEARCH FOR NEW Coach

The UAE’s National football team have begun the search for a new coach after Srecko Katanec’s dismissal last year.

Yousef Al Serkal, as new president of the UAE Football Association, is currently weighing up all his choices when it comes to choosing a replacement coach. One name which has been thrown around is that of 51-year-old Argentinean legend, Diego Maradona. According to Khaleej Times, Serkal said “As Maradona is within the family of the UAE football; we can’t neglect or overlook such a name.”

The footballing legend was part of his native team’s World Cup win 1986 and also coached his country to the quarter finals of the contest in 2010.

Abu Dhabi’s female ice hockey team, Storm Ladies, scooped bronze in the 2012 Mega Ice Hockey 5’s, Asia’s largest women’s annual Ice Hockey event held, this year, in Hong Kong.

The victory is something of an achievement considering the team has only been in existence for two years, thus are practically infants when compared to the highly experienced teams hailing from twelve countries across the globe.

Determined efforts from goalkeeper Suzzane Lyon-Elleras, persistence from Jillian Clegg and dedication from Captain Fatma Al Qubaisi were praised. Despite their impressive efforts, the team was unable to match the opposing vigor and tenacity of

the more established teams and lost their last match 5-0 against the WIHO Saints from Hong Kong.

Mr. Juma Al Dhaheri, team manager, praised his team’s hard work and performance in such a huge international tournament. Their efforts were also commended by Abu Dhabi Ice Hockey Sports Club Officials.

Currently working with Al Wasl Club in Dubai, he could be the ideal choice to fill the vacant position.

Mahdi Ali, the local coach for the country’s Olympic Squad, who has so far done a pretty decent job of coaching the Olympic team, is another name being considered by the association.

Photo Courtesy of: Abu Dhabi Ice Sports Club

STORM LADIES SCOOP BRONZE

Emirati Muna Al Dhaheri, achieved further success by winning the women’s ‘hot-shot’ contest, with a winning speed of 51km/h.

Following their performance at the tournament, the UAE team has since received invitations to compete at the 2013 tournament and various friendly’s set to be held throughout Asia. thesourceuae.com

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FEATURE

A Journey to Remember

By Khudayja Saloojee

Just a few weeks ago, twelve Emirati students from HCT College in Al Ain travelled to Sri Lanka as part of a humanitarian trip to bring aid to those less fortunate than themselves. Their journey was insightful yet full of hard work and the students have returned to the emirates filled with a newfound appreciation for their home country and a deeper understanding of the need to give back to society.

The Source went to meet the students to find out first-hand about their journey, the valuable life lessons they learned and the memories they made.

The tropical nation of Sri Lanka is set in the Indian Ocean in South Asia and is one of the few places in the world that can offer magnificent landscapes, pristine beaches, tropical rainforests mixed with intriguing cultural heritage and tradition all set among abundant unspoiled beauty.

In May 2009, the ongoing civil war between the Tamils and the Sri Lankan Government came to an end and, since then, the country has made significant economic and social progress. However, improvements in literacy rates, life expectancy and other social indicators have been overshadowed by the ever increasing poverty rates.

The majority of Sri Lankans live in rural areas and work is predominantly found in small scale farming. According to charity organization, Rural Poverty, 80 per cent of those 8

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struggling with poverty live in Central, Uva and the Southern Provinces of the island where agriculture growth has been slow and strongly affected by the ongoing warfare.

Boossa, in the southern province of Sri Lanka, is an area in need of a lot of assistance thus, the Community Service for Al Ain Colleges (CSAAC) decided to organize a week long humanitarian trip there for twelve of their Emirati students. Accompanied by their counselor, Mr. Imad Jarwan, the students set off for Boossa on April 27th in order to deliver aid to Wityarathna Home for Elders and Boossa Maha Vidiyala School as well as Ahangama Blind School in neighboring Galle. It’s clear that the college take their humanitarian role seriously with the trip being the third international project organized in the past 18 months.

The students were keen to share their stories and tell us about their experiences. They began their journey by organizing various fundraising activities. On the female campus, henna stations and beauty stalls were set up as well as a popular fashion show. The men, on the other hand, gave detailed presentations informing their fellow students about poverty in Sri Lanka and managed to raise the profile of their trip high enough that an anonymous donor granted their fund around AED 7500. Students and faculty of both campuses were greatly involved in the fundraising efforts.

FEATURE The spirit of philanthropy was not only reserved for those directly participating in the project but was spread throughout the campuses touching all students who were in fact the ‘main donors’ to the cause. Mr. Imad explained that the fundraising campaigns explained the scenario clearly “Every time we do an event we tell them why we are doing the event whether we are raising funds for Zambia or Sri Lanka. Student populations on both campuses learn about the need for help in other places although they’re not directly involved.”

The collective efforts of the students saw the group gather enough funds to cover donations, buy materials and pay for board and lodging. Although their budget could have afforded them a stay in a five star hotel, the CSAAC decided to book them into a “place without air conditioners and a little bit of a harsh environment” in order to help the students sympathize with some of the troubles that the people themselves were dealing with.

Even before the trip took place, the initiative had met three of its main objectives. Firstly, they were successful in raising donations of food, clothing and stationery and successfully shipping them to the villages in need. Secondly, they collected around 70 kg of medication and first aid to be delivered on their arrival. Finally, they gathered a huge clothing donation and shipped this to the School for the Blind and Deaf before their arrival. On top of this, CSAAC also made a cash donation to the school in order to fund a planned expansion.

For these 12 philanthropist students, volunteering has been a major part of their college experience. Each is a member of CSAAC and they have all been involved in previous voluntary activities. For three of the female students this was, rather impressively, their third international voluntary project. Mr. Imad chose these specific students because they “are able to represent the college values.”

On arrival at the Boossa Maha Vidiyala School, the students donated hundreds of children’s books, stationery and educational toys. They also got thoroughly involved in painting the special education and art room. The following day, they headed to the Wityarathna Home for Elders, where they interacted with the elderly, prepared meals and donated the medical supplies generously contributed by Oasis Hospital in Al Ain. They also visited Ahangama Blind School in Galle where they helped to paint classrooms, delivered children’s clothes and handed over the generous monetary donation made on behalf of their college.

rural Sri Lankan culture. It also aimed to teach them some important life lessons and it seems like that has been successful. Each of the students has come back with the same idea that “we have to think differently and we have to give without taking.”

Counselor Imad also told us that the group had returned with a greater appreciation of their own lives, here in the UAE, in comparison with the problems faced by the Sri Lankan people. He added that the project is a chance to enhance students’ understanding of the global world, “That world is not only about Al Ain, Abu Dhabi or the UAE. There is a larger world around them and it’s important to see it and to understand it.” Finally, he told us that many of the students studying engineering or IT may go onto gain jobs at the oil rigs or in the remote areas of Abu Dhabi. This project provided students the opportunity to experience teamwork and test their ability to work under pressure in less than favorable conditions.

Mr. Imad believes that college experience should not only be about sitting in a classroom and learning theory.

Instead, it should be a holistic experience with students getting involved in community projects that will ultimately “enhance their college experience.”

The students plan to continue fundraising to send money to the Boossa Maha Vidiyala School to fund the construction of a fence to ensure the safety of the children as the school is haphazardly located on a main road. They will also donate further to Ahangama School in order to assist them in building an extra classroom. The continued fundraising efforts will also provide much needed sneakers for the children of both schools.

The CSAAC’s involvement in local and international charitable activities stems from HCT’s commitment to produce graduates with impeccable leadership qualities preparing them to make the greatest possible contribution to communities while demonstrating confidence and social maturity. These experiences will not only enhance students’ college experience, but will build memories and teach lessons that will last a lifetime.

The students all agreed that the experience had been invaluable and exposed them to a life vastly different from their own. Saeed Al Kubaisi, an electrical engineering student, describes the trip as “a really great experience.

It’s a different experience. You have to work with others to do something different and make people happy.” For Abdullah Al Dowalia, his first trip to Sri Lanka left quite an impression. He wanted to connect with the people of Boossa “by helping” in any way he could.

The trip’s intention wasn’t only to expose students to thesourceuae.com

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STUFF for men

Tabletop Technology

By Alex Hennawi

I have to admit, I have a bit of a fascination with science fiction movies. I enjoy watching them primarily because I like to see what writers and directors perceive the future to have in store for us. As a computer and gadget junkie, I also enjoy watching the direction in which these devices are perceived to be moving. I am sure you have seen dudes in futuristic suits sitting at a glass table moving their hands all over the place and dragging little digital icons and boxes here and there. That’s known as surface computing and, my friends, it’s already here.

Surface computing is the way of the future for sure. Most kids will soon look at their parents’ PCs and laptops and start laughing at how old school we all are. The reality is that we are already ‘segwaying’ slowly into full surface computing via tablets.

Forget the iPad and the Galaxy tablets; surface computing takes all of this a major step forward. How you ask? Well I’ll try to keep this simple.

Surface computers replace the Graphical User Interface (GUI) that we have all become accustomed to in traditional computing and tablets. A GUI is all the little icons and menus that you use your keyboard and mouse to dragdrop and navigate around with. With a surface computer, this is replaced with a natural user interface (NUI) allowing you to interact with the touch sensitive surface in a manner that is instinctive and more intuitive. You touch objects and you manipulate them. To get your mind around what natural means, think about the movements you make when you take a file on your desk, open it and sift through the paper inside. Voila, that’s exactly what a NUI and surface computer try to allow you to do. The difference, of course, is that it’s all digital and the object you’re manipulating is not actually a paper file but a digital folder. So you slide the digital folder closer to you and open it by touching the screen and moving the files inside until you find the one you need.

Hopefully you get the idea of how powerful such technology is and is set to become in the very near future. Sure the technology is still in its infancy but, as with all technology, it’s sure to evolve in leaps and bounds.

The technology was pioneered at places like the University of Toronto and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It wasn’t very long before commercial businesses, such as Microsoft, saw the financial potential of surface computing.

In fact, the most marketable unit to hit the market so far is the Microsoft Surface. The Surface looks just like a coffee table but uses NUI to allow multiple users to manipulate objects at the same time. The Microsoft Surface is able to detect the users touch by electrical impulses on the screen and has infrared cameras to detect when the user inputs something. You can upload files to the Surface by simply placing Bluetooth enabled objects on the Surface itself. For example, you can transfer pictures directly to the Surface simply by outing your camera on top of it. Think about it this way; imagine a cup of coffee sitting on your kitchen table.

You leave and come back a few minute later and the coffee in no longer in the cup but inside the table itself. Okay, that would be kind of messy but the idea is pretty cool huh?

The possibilities are unlimited with this type of computing.

At present however, it is being marketed mainly for its business uses rather than personal use. This makes sense if you think about it. When computers first evolved on the scene, their uses were originally industrial and academic.

Later, they evolved to take over simple mundane tasks like word processing and calculations after which home usage eventually arose. The other reason being that the Microsoft Surface costs around $15000, or over AED 55000! That’s no pocket change! I predict though, that as with all technology, prices will drop and, with Google’s Android and Samsung jumping on the Surface bandwagon, cheaper home-orientated applications will not be too far behind.

Until then, I’ll just have to hope my wife increases my allowance… thesourceuae.com

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LIFESTYLE

Paddle Away Whether you call it stand-up paddle surfing, boarding or even Hoe he’e nalu (its original Hawaiian name) one thing is for sure, the sport is certainly gathering momentum amongst UAE residents.

Traditionally used for fishing in the shallow reefs off the Polynesian islands, the activity is a cross between surfing and canoeing, and developed into a sport after surfing instructors and photographers deployed it to gain a better vantage point than they would have on a regular surfboard.

Stand up Paddling allows you to enjoy all the physical benefits of regular surfing but is much easier to get the hang of and doesn’t require any waves, meaning it can be practiced in any body of water.

The board looks simply like a huge surfboard and gives you much more buoyancy in the water, making it pretty easy to

balance on. You use a paddle to move along through the water, and the workout for your core muscles is fantastic.

On top of this, you’re in the perfect spot to top up your tan and, when you get too hot, you can simply dive into the ocean and cool off.

A 40 minute session once or twice a week will build your core muscles, increase your stamina and give you a huge push in the right direction of getting fit. On top of that, it’s lots of fun and a great way to socialize.

You can join in the fun with a private or group lesson at SurfDubai, located next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel. You can also join The Sunset Open Girls, a Dubai based female only group at Sunset Beach, who offer a four-week course of paddle boarding, mixed up with beach fitness. In the capital, check out UAE Stand Up Paddle Club, with locations at various points throughout the city.

Use fabric to brighten up windows and walls, or use as a table runner to spice up your dinner parties.

Green Table Runner, selection at Homemart from AED 59

Adding an unusual vase will bring a touch of the unknown to your exotic themed interior.

Vase, Homemart AED 29

Exotic Touch

Globe trotting style at wallet friendly prices Cushion, selection at Homemart, from AED 30

Summer is just around the corner and, as the temperatures rise chances are we’ll all be spending a bit more time indoors. A few exotic touches and a splash of color here and there can give your home a much needed summer revamp.

A couple of bright cushions placed on the sofa or scattered on chairs can add a well needed splash of color to your living room.

For more information on products call Homemart Al Ain on 03 7620302 12

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Water fountains help to bring the outdoors indoors.

Table lamp, Homemart, AED 90

Go wild with a funky table lamp

Selection water fountains available at Homemart ranging AED100-800

URBAN Woman

Go

By Rachel Duggan

Glam!

One thing that most women have two of, are beauty bags or make-up boxes. One for on the go, packed with all the daily essentials like powder, concealer, mascara and lip gloss. The other is a permanent fixture in front of the vanity mirror in the bathroom, filled with various lotions and potions used to enhance your natural beauty and looks.

website, Glambox is the perfect opportunity to “Try before you buy”. Offering a monthly membership with various options including 3, 6 or 12 month subscriptions, each month a beautifully packaged box stuffed full of beauty samples gets delivered right to your door.

Whether it includes a lipstick that you might have worn once, or an eye-cream which was an impulse buy with a heavy price tag, these beauty boxes we all love so much are often packed full of items that we, let’s be honest, hardly ever use. Glambox Middle East is the answer to these redundant beauty products.

On top of this, you can earn Glampoints by visiting the website and posting your comments and opinions on the samples you’ve received, referring friends and sharing ideas. You can then redeem these points for full-sized products from an ever-increasing list of goodies.

With informative blog posts, video tips and a simple

Sofa Set 3+2+1(Dark Brown & Light Brown)

king Size Bed (Black & Brown)

Packaged in a pink, girly box, it includes an informative card with details about the delights you’ll find inside. Not only does it describe each product, it also gives you details about the full size product including quantity and price.

Filled with a selection of goodies from international hair, make-up and beauty brands, it allows you to test out the product, discover how it works with your skin or hair and see the results before purchasing.

We all love receiving things in the post and this is the perfect way to affordably treat yourself, each and every month!

Sofa Bed 3+2+1(Red, Grey, Black, Brown)

Leather Sofa Set 3+2+1

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13

Magically Overcoming the Odds

A conversation with Emirati magician and illusionist – Sultan Ghanim Humaid Al Nuaimi

By Mehak Alam

On May 26th, the world marks International Multiple Sclerosis Day in order to provide the public with information about the disease and how it affects more than two million people around the world. Here, in the Arabian Gulf, the potentially devastating neurological disease is becoming more prevalent, affecting increasing numbers of men and women of all ages.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients are severely hampered at work and in carrying out simple everyday tasks. Though women are three times more likely to develop MS, research shows that men are also affected and they are often the ones who find it hardest to balance the disease and the physical challenges it brings with employment and supporting a family.

One man, who has managed to break free from the chains of MS, is Sultan Ghanim Humaid Al Nuaimi, a talented magician and illusionist. Currently working at the Sharjah Institute of Technology, (SIT) in the Technical Support Department, Sultan was diagnosed with the condition when 14

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he was just a teenager but has strived not to be bound by his illness. He never allowed himself to be beaten, but rather gave himself over to creativity and the love and talent that he had for magic. After completing a BTEC in IT, Sultan commenced working at SIT but his day job is not what fulfills him.

At the age of 14, he commenced his journey into magic.

After watching magic shows on television, at parties and at various fairs, he felt a desire to be involved in the art and felt it was something he could be good at. His deepest inspiration came from the legendary American magician and illusionist David Copperfield. At 15, Sultan found Mr. Tomy, an Indian magician who would be his mentor and help him to polish and develop his magical ability. “I started buying magic equipment from him, and after I purchased anything from him he also taught me how to perform with those tools�, says Sultan. He also taught him other skills, such as stage presence and presentation techniques.

In 2007, Sultan moved to the United States to undergo

professional Training at The International Brotherhood of Magicians in Washington DC. This was a good way to raise his profile internationally and also learn what it takes to be successful performing in front of large audiences.

In the UAE, magic has long been considered a taboo subject and this has been a bit of a challenge for Sultan It is also very rare to see an Emirati magician and Sultan does understand that people initially may be unwilling to accept him or his profession. However, he tries not to listen to negative feedback and instead focuses on performing for his audiences, which are comprised of children and families, and showing them how amazing magic can be.

Having MS affects Sultan every day. He suffers from visual impairment, shudders involuntarily and has difficulty with balance. However, he has never let this hold him back and instead strives to be a role model for other MS patients, encouraging them not to stop living when they are diagnosed with the infliction. Daily medication is the normal treatment and, although this is not an easy thing to deal with, Sultan. tries to incorporate it swiftly into his daily routine and then turn his attention back to work and his love of magic. He feels happy whenever he performs in front of an audience as he “brings smiles to their faces.”

LIFELESSONS Never let a medical deficiency stop you from fulfilling your dreams.

Try to accept the facts and remain happy with what you have.

Use your talents!

You can reach your goals; all it takes is hard work and determination.

Be thankful to the Almighty Creator for the blessings He has showered upon you.

Recently, Sultan was awarded recognition by the International Magicians Society in Las Vegas, one of the most prestigious awards in the magic world. Receiving the award left Sultan feeling overwhelmed and spurred him to continue to develop his talent. Having already performed on various international stages, an achievement in itself, Sultan hopes to add to his international calendar dates in the near future.

As well as balancing work and magic, the talented magician is also highly active in spreading awareness about Multiple Sclerosis in the UAE. He is involved with the UAE MS Support Group and takes an active role. “Our goal is to conduct different events where MS patients can share their experiences and also display their talents in front of the public” he tells us enthusiastically.

He further adds, “We are trying our best to work out and find a way to help our patients, like, by managing to provide them with medications at low rates or even for free.”

Sultan Al Nuaimi is undoubtedly a talented magician and illusionist, able to set the stage on fire with his magnanimous trickeries and intoxicating grin. A master of magic and a true crusader of MS awareness, it was my great pleasure to chat with him.

I concluded our talk by asking him what advice he has for our readers.

thesourceuae.com

15

EDUCATION

Readying Students for the Workplace

By Bob Studholme

University is much like secondary school in that you work by yourself, are responsible to yourself and are tested by examination.

of students were lacking when it came to teamwork and needed more practice in their ability to collaborate with others in diverse group settings.

University gives you a degree and is good preparation for employment because it teaches skills that will help you in your job.

After university, it is unlikely that an employee will work the same way they did while studying. At university, if a student showed someone else what they had done or created there would be outcries of cheating yet, in the ideal working world, we contribute to one another’s ideas to create the most effective solutions. Furthermore, in university, students are assessed through examinations, which they study for individually. Outside, they’ll be working as part of a group, each having a certain responsibility to the other members of the group but the work load will be shared fairly.

While these statements are undoubtedly true, employers around the world may not always wholly support them. In fact, many universities have been busy conducting employer research and have discovered that, quite often, employers feel that students come to them lacking necessary skills.

More to the point, these skills are not IT and writing skills but more basic practices like being able to work in a team or effectively communicate.

According to The Association of American Colleges and Universities, 73 per cent of employers wanted more emphasis from new recruits on the ability to apply knowledge and skills to real-life settings. They found that 76 per cent 16

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Universities need to change the way they think about what they do, and this is beginning to happen. One example of this is where universities are organizing work experience for their students. As an example, over 200 students at Abu Dhabi University (ADU) have embarked on a comprehensive Summer Internship Program. Organized by ADU’s Career

EDUCATION Development Department, the program aims to help students find essential work experience placements and help them to make the transition to the work force once they complete their studies. The students train for six weeks in a diverse range of local and international organizations in both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Landscape Architecture (LAR) is the latest addition to the work experience program, enabling the first batch of student-trainees to gain work experience in this popular field. There are also opportunities in more traditional areas such as engineering, auditing, banking, IT, public relations, marketing, architecture, interior design and oil & gas.

We spoke to Rasha Ahmed Soliman and Maryam Ali Al Dhali, who both interned as part of their university course.

Rasha is taking a course in Mass Communications, while Maryam is enrolled in a BA in English. Both also work for the university as marketing interns. They visit high schools in the area to talk with the students about ADU, its courses and campuses. They are currently involved in a project organizing an art exhibition showing sculpture, photography and painting. Rasha said, “I used to work in media in Oman, but I didn’t learn as much about the work as I’m doing here. This program helps me know so much more about marketing. It’s an incredible experience.”

It isn’t easy. Maryam tells me that they can easily work between two and four hours on days when they have school visits. Although this doesn’t seem too intense, the girls have their full time studies on top of this. However, they do feel that their roles are rewarding. “Mostly we give lectures to the students. They often don’t know much about university life and they like being able to talk to students like us. This way they learn much more.”

Universities are also changing the way that they work to reflect the reality of the corporate world hence, the introduction of Team-Based Learning (TBL) in some university classes. This is a new concept in many institutions and most universities are only starting to get interested in what it can do for their students. We talked to Mr. Michael McGee, of Abu Dhabi University, to find out more about it.

He informed us that a lot of the initial work on TBL was carried out in relation to courses for health professionals

but that things are now branching out into other subjects.

The primary aim of Team-Based Learning is to go beyond simply covering content and instead focus on ensuring that students have the chance to practice using course concepts to solve problems.

In a TBL course, students are organized into permanent groups for each term. Before any in-class content work, students must study assigned materials because each unit of work starts with the Readiness Assurance Process (RAP).

The RAP consists of a short test on the key ideas from the readings that students have completed as individuals. They then take the same test again but this time as a team. The mark given for team answers is higher than the one for the individual tests, so that there is a real reason to argue, discuss and explain ideas.

Michael gives the example of essay writing for the IELTS exam as one that has been tried with TBL. Students can be shown one approach to producing a good essay. They are tested on their understanding of this individually, then again as a team. The most talkative members of the team learn to listen to their friends, to save them from embarrassment; while the quieter members learn to speak up and assert themselves when they know an answer. All have a real motivation to discuss the subject and find that they improve their marks by filling in the gaps in knowledge. Thus, “students really do learn from each other in this approach.”

Michael continues, “If students don’t need to discuss the work, then they won’t and the learning opportunity is lost.” Thus, the projects have been carefully designed to allow students to benefit from collaborating. Eventually, students will take parts of the work done by their peers and combine it with their own work to create a finished project.

Each student is solely responsible for the mark awarded for such a project and so re-writing and re-working others ideas is often necessary. This really demonstrates how well students have understood the overall project and can give the best of both worlds, allowing students to learn theory whilst putting it into practice.

As employers become more demanding in their choice of employable graduates, it is up to the universities to continue to implement new, advanced theories and projects that will help secure their students a place in the corporate world.

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17

DIARY

Dining

As part of Dubai Restaurant Week, enjoy a 3-course set menu at 38 participating restaurants across Jumeirah for lunch or dinner as part of this event organized to celebrate good food and fine dining.

INFO: 23-29 May, 04 366 6730 or visit www.jumeirah.com

rolls 31st y to a d Thurs r way he u n o y e h W ke r t d, ma na Hotel fo late aroun a u t c o a ’s R mm Al Ain rst ever I Featuring fi . city’s Pool Party an and r h B og n Touc talie est o a N tt W ulous a M DJ’s unk, e fab ChadP one and th up to be h Saxop it’s shaping t o ening!

I.T-B ing ev it c x e , one m-2am p 0 3 : 8 00, AED 1 6337 INFO: ll 055 650 a c

PARTY

ek with this we g in n n e p xhibitio hap Innovatse! TEDx Abu Dhagbiuispon The Nationna‘ildEeas worth New issio nd endin Exciting peakers desc e with TED’s m rganizations a s o n f , li es o s c t in a ie s it p s S lk un a ho is ‘The eliver ta to give comm d e m i’s to e b e a th tr h D r’s ned Cen this yea iscussing Abu n them ’. Desig , g e in ic d o a v e spr blic ers d twee ship be als a pu e speak individu n’ and will se rks, the relation ee ma in Betw nd land a s e c ossible. la p tes: made p e r people, e 60 Minu t w n a y h e T th e or even and how thor of ‘M cal volunteer, u a e d clu other i, lo host of eakers in ’ Tarek S Niaz a p d s n d a e out. yed till Confirm tful day tands S Shaima Al Sha h S ig s th r in a When E a highly median king for r and co a e iz m n s a r g m B, or acte nce Roo ng char e ti r a fe in n c o s fa NEC, C May AD , AED 350 th 6 2 t. a 9pm INFO: S 2:30 to abudhabi.ae dx www.te

Active

Fancy trying your hand at American Football? The first ever Emirates American Football League will kick off on the 20th October 2012 and the association are in the process of expanding their existing player base.

With tryouts throughout the UAE, Al Ain’s event takes place on Friday 1st June, where anyone interested in joining The Al Ain Desert Foxes can come along and sign up, no matter what your skill level is. A fun way to learn a new sport, make new friends and get fit all at the same time.

Music

INFO: Friday 1st June, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club 4:30pm-6:30pm. (18+) Pre-register at www.eafl.ae

Looks

Head to Faces in Al Ain Mall for their Beauty Festival and learn about your favorite beauty products as well as getting the chance to win a weekend escape to Bab Al Shams or a spectacular trip for two to Thailand!

INFO: 15-31 May, Al Ain Mall, Tel: 03 766 0333

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Head along to Yas Isla June t nd on Sund ay 3rd Madon o party with M n a ater .

Bringin to the g her W ial Girl capita l, o perfor m a po the musica rld Tour l legen p extra with a d will vagan weso specta z cular s me dance m a complete pecia oves a

by DJ nd Benny l effects. Ac compa Benas nied si it w amazin g nigh ill be an t.

INFO: Yas Ar to 3am ena, Timing - 8pm , 0 www.t 2 509 8000 hinkfla sh.ae

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THE MOVIES

FILM OF THE WEEK

Will Smith returns in the third of the popular sci-fi ‘Men In Black’ movies, jumping on the bandwagon of superheroes and comic book revivals. Once again starring alongside Tommy Lee Jones as the alien control unit of New York City, the dark suits and ever-so-cool blackout sunglasses also make a return to our screens but this time in 3D. Agent J (played by Smith) has to travel back in time to prevent the murder of his partner Agent K and to save Earth and all of humanity.

The catch, other than those pesky aliens, is that he’s battling against a 24-hour time limit before he gets trapped in the past forever.

Movie Listings OSCAR CINEMA, AL FOAH MALL, Al AIN Tel: +971 3 784 3535 1. AL MASLAHA: 10:20, 12:40, 15:00, 17:20, 19:40, 22:00, 24:20 2. MEN IN BLACK 3: 11:00, 15:20, 19:40, 24:00 3. MEN IN BLACK 3 (3D): 13:10, 17:30, 21:50 3. WHAT TO EXPECT: 10:15, 12:30, 14:45, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30, 23:45 4. THE AVENGERS: 12:15, 15:00, 17:45, 20:30, 23:15 5. THE COURIER: 10:45, 13:00, 15:15, 17:30, 19:45, 22:00, 24:15

ROTANA HOTEL, ZAYED IBN SULTAN St., AL AIN Tel: +971 3 754 4447 1. AL MASLAHA (ARABIC):12:15, 14:45, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30, 24:00 2. MEN IN BLACK 3: 11:00, 15:20, 19:40, 24:00 2. MEN IN BLACK 3 (3D):13:10, 17:30, 21:50 3. THE AVENGERS: 12:00, 15:00, 17:45, 20:30, 23:15 4. DARK SHADOWS: 10:30, 12:45, 15:00, 17:15, 19:30, 21:45, 24:00

GRAND BAWADI, BAWADI MALL, AL AIN Tel: +971 3 784 0300 1. AL MASLAHA (ARABIC): 10:00, 12:15, 14:30, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30, 24:00 2. MEN IN BLACK 3: 11:00, 13:10, 15:20, 17:30, 19:40, 21:50, 24:00 3. DARK SHADOWS: 10:30, 12:45, 15:00, 17:15, 19:30, 21:45, 24:00 4. MEN IN BLACK 3 (3D): 10:00, 12:15, 14:30, 16:45, 19:00, 21:15, 23:30 5. THE AVENGERS: 12:00, 14:45, 17:30, 20:15, 23:00 6. THE COURIER: 10:45, 13:00, 15:15, 17:15, 19:30, 21:30, 24:00 7 WHAT TO EXPECT: 10:15, 12:30, 14:45, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30, 23:45 GRAND CLASS: MEN IN BLACK 3: 14:10, 16:20, 18:30, 20:40, 23:00

GRAND AL AIN CINEPLEX AL AIN MALL, AL AIN Tel: +971 3 751 1228 1. AL MASLAHA (ARABIC):12:15, 14:45, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30, 24:00 2. MEN IN BLACK 3: 11:00, 15:20, 19:40, 24:00 2. MEN IN BLACK 3 (3D):13:10, 17:30, 21:50 3. THE AVENGERS: 12:00, 15:00, 17:45, 20:30, 23:15 4. DARK SHADOWS: 10:30, 12:45, 15:00, 17:15, 19:30, 21:45, 24:00

The movie listings are valid from Thursday to Wednesday every week.

FROM OUR READER

Thai Winged Bean Salad My name is Hassa Abdullah. I am an Emirati who loves travelling. I have been to a lot of countries and one of the things I love about my trips is the different kinds of cuisines I get to explore. I want to become a chef one day because I just love bringing back recipes of what I eat at the restaurants on my travels.

When I was in Thailand I got the chance to try this nutritious and healthy salad.

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 cups winged beans 2 eggs 1/4 cup toasted coconut powder 2 teaspoons roasted peanuts 3/4 cup coconut milk 1 tablespoon lime juice 2 tablespoons roasted chili paste 2 tablespoons tamarind paste (about 2 teaspoons tamarind pulp + 2 tablespoons hot water) 1 1/2 teaspoons fish sauce 1 teaspoon palm sugar vegetable oil for frying 3-4 small dried chilies 2-3 medium sized shrimps

Method

By Poungjai Boyle, Al Ain Watercolor Club

1. Roast the coconut powder over a medium heat in a dry pan until light brown. Keep stirring to avoid burning. Set aside on a flat plate to cool.

2. Crush the peanuts with a mortar & pestle or the side of a heavy knife.

3. Fry the chilies in the oil until brown.

4. Boil the eggs in water until hard-boiled (roughly 10 minutes). Replace the hot water with fresh cold water to stop the eggs from cooking further. Peel and slice.

5. Clean the shrimp by peeling off the heads and legs, and remove the ‘vein’.

6. Trim off the ends of the winged beans and boil whole in salted water for less than a minute or until they change color to dark green. You want them to remain crisp & crunchy. Rinse in cold water and slice into 1/4 inch pieces.

7. Heat the coconut milk in a pan until boiling. Add the shrimp and cook until pink. Turn off heat and add the palm sugar, tamarind paste, roasted chili paste, lime juice, fish sauce, peanuts and coconut. Mix well.

8. Add the winged beans and mix. Put on a plate and arrange the eggs alongside. Garnish with the fried chilies.

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HAVE A QUESTION WE HAVE THE ANSWER ASK THE SOURCE

?

NEED TO KNOW

I would like to learn how to swim, preferably with a female instructor, where can I find one in Al Ain? There are many spots in Al Ain where you can learn to swim. Try the following for lessons with a female instructor: Al Ain Cromwell Hospital, two lessons per week, costs AED 350. Duration and timings vary.

For more information call 03 799 0000 Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, two lessons per week, costs approximately AED 400. Duration: 6-8 weeks per course. Timings vary.

For more information call Ms. TJ on 050 3384252 Al Ain Rotana, two lessons per week, costs AED 900. Duration: 8 lessons. Timings vary.

For more information call 03 7545 111

Offsetting your Carbon Footprint

ENVIRONMENTAL

Most of us have probably taken a look at our lives recently and tried to make them a little bit greener. Recycling bottles, separating glass from plastic, turning off electrical appliances and switching our conventional light bulbs to energy saving ones.

However, summers coming up and the majority of us are going to be heading off somewhere on vacation and that means travelling. And with that travelling comes a great big addition to our personal carbon footprints!

There are, however, various ways to reduce your impact on the environment this summer. Many of the major travel companies, such as Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and Continental have devised carbon reduction schemes allowing you to select an option, pay a minimal fee and in

return have your carbon footprint for that particular journey offset by the company.

If you happen to be driving to your destination you can visit climatecare.org and make use of their free carbon calculator. Input your car make and model and how far you drive and the calculator will tell you how much to donate to offset your emissions.

If you want to give something a little bit different for an upcoming birthday surprise, why not offset their carbon emission for them? Using the calculator, input how many emissions you’d like to offset and the site will print a carbon emission gift certificate for them. A great present for someone who already has everything.

Day

Fajr

Sunrise

Dhuhr

Asr

Maghrib

Isha

Thursday

4:02

5:30

12:14

3:37

6:58

8:28

Friday

4:02

5:30

12:14

3:37

6:58

8:28

Saturday

4:01

5:29

12:15

3:37

6:59

8:29

Sunday

4:01

5:29

12:15

3:37

6:59

8:29

Monday

4:01

5:29

12:15

3:36

7:00

8:30

Tuesday

4:00

5:29

12:15

3:36

7:00

8:30

Wednesday

4:00

5:29

12:15

3:36

7:01

8:31

PRAYER

TIMES

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21

BE INSPIRED

Inspiring Creativity Are you creative?

By Haneen Farid If you are, then lucky you. It’s wonderful to be creative but, what is even more wonderful is when your creativity is appreciated by others. And here is your chance for that to happen.

Last year, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi established the Sheikha Shamsa bint Suhail Award for Creative Women.

This award, aims to support the efforts of Emirati women, recognizing their creative talents and expertise in various fields. It also aims to reward those who have delivered outstanding contributions in building and promoting their communities.

through their creative flair.

In order to qualify for the award, participants must demonstrate work that is both unique and original. There are various categories to which women can apply including Educational Work, Public Service, Business and Trade, Literature and Women with special needs.

Applications will be received between 2nd July and 9th August and winners will be announced on 15th November with an evening of celebration to be held later in the month on the 23rd.

To apply, candidates must be Emirati, female and their skill should be linked to the community or develop society in some way or another.

One of last year’s winners, Farah Humaid Al Fard who was awarded in the literature, art and media, encourages women to apply saying, “all Emirati women who believe in their creativity should apply for the prize as no matter if you win or lose, you should never give up. Losing doesn’t mean that you’re not creative but motivates you to continue developing your skills and serving the community.

Farah excels in paper quilling, an art form which involves winding paper around a quill to create a coil form which is then arranged into intricate shapes and patterns. She told us, “the art I presented is the first of its kind in the Middle East…I make it related to UAE traditions and culture.”

So, what are you waiting for? Be inspired, get creative and submit your application to participate in the 2012 Sheikha Shamsa bint Suhail Award for Creative Women.

Women in the UAE continue to strive. There is now a large female representation in ministry, law, diplomatic and political spectrums. What seems special about Emirati women is that they have managed to achieve all of this without forgoing their culture and heritage, a huge achievement in itself. The Sheikha Shamsa Award aims to highlight the place of these women, motivate them and support their efforts in enhancing the UAE community 22

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ANNUAL PASS 2012 NOW AVAILABLE At Hili Fun City, classic and traditional family fun is what we’re all about. Enjoy 31 attractions (28 included in the entrance fee) for all ages, with roller coasters, rides, an amphitheatre for 1,400 people, and beautifully landscaped gardens with picnic and play areas.

For more info please call +971 3 784 5542 or visit www.hilifuncity.ae For admission fees, please refer to our website, Wednesdays are reserved for ladies only. Closed on Sundays.

MY WORLD

The Hunt for Nessie

A visit to the Scottish Highlands offers a unique getaway‌

By Hayley Skirka

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MY WORLD

Y

ou may have heard of her before. Her name is Nessie; she’s tall, dark and slim and lives at the bottom of one of the deepest lochs (lakes) in Scotland. That’s right; she’s the Loch Ness Monster.

Her legend has spread throughout the world and yet her existence remains elusive. No trip to Loch Ness, nestled deep in the Scottish Highlands, is complete without embarking on a famous ‘Nessie Hunt’. True, you’re unlikely to find her, scientists trawled the lake with high-tech equipment back in 2003 and found no trace of any mythical monster, but where’s the fun in that? Whether you find Nessie or not, a trip on the 20 mile loch is an experience in itself.

Climb aboard the aptly named ‘Jacobite’ Cruise and enjoy the stunning Scottish scenery as you sail across the water. Disembark at Urquhart Castle to immerse yourself in history and explore what was once one of the largest strongholds of medieval Scotland. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed, dynamited and blown up under English parliamentary orders in 1692 and has never been restored to its former glory. Its ruins, however, make for a fascinating few hours of exploration.

Enjoy a spot of fishing on the banks of Loch Ness; the water is teeming with wild brown trout and north Atlantic salmon.

As the day slips away, set up a little campfire and enjoy your catch as the sun begins to set over the water, the surrounding Caledonian pine trees casting eerie shadows across the land while the rugged hills rise dramatically from the loch’s dark waters, encapsulating the whole scene.

Although tourism in the area was built on the basis of Nessie and, in fact, legends and mythology played a major role in the historical development of the entire country, when you’ve had your fill of fantasy there is plenty more to do besides. Why not head to the nearby, picturesque village of Fort Augustus? This area is an important stopping point on The Caledonian Canal, an engineering triumph that runs from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean and is still very much in use today; potter around on the banks of the canal and watch the locks raise passing boats from one level of the canal to the next. Pop into ‘The Bothy’ to lunch on freshly caught fish, washed down with a nice cup of tea.

If you’re feeling energetic, the Great-Glen Way runs right past Loch Ness; its 79 mile walking trail stretching all the way from Inverness to Fort William. Enjoy the distinct smell of the Highland pines as you wander along feasting your eyes on some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery.

The trail is suitable for all abilities and there are plenty of cozy little rest houses along the way where you can stop for dinner or choose to spend the night. Camping is another option, with Scotland’s Outdoor Access Code giving walkers completely free reign of all countryside areas, farms and forests so long as they act responsibly.

Looking to see a different side of Scotland? Head to Loch Ness in June for the annual ‘Rockness Festival’, recently awarded NME’s Best Small Festival for the second year running; this three day camping event attracts some of the biggest names in rock, pop and dance. This year the fun starts on the 8th of June and will see Ed Sheeran, Biffy Clyro, Deadmau5 and a whole host of other names take to the stage. A guaranteed party weekend; just remember to bring your wellies!

And on that musical note, our Scots friends would say ‘Mar sin leibh an drasda’ and hope to see you soon!

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25

MY CITY

CHILL OUT AT Chili’s Fancy taking the kids out for dinner this evening? For a scrumptious American feast with a Mexican twist, why not head to Chili’s Restaurant? Situated in Al Jimi Mall, the menu has a wide selection of Tex-Mex food bound to tantalize your taste buds.

Entering the diner, you’ll be greeted by their friendly staff and are bound to feel right at home. The casual family atmosphere complemented by the colorful posters, decorative tiles and unique furnishings and artifacts.

Don’t hold back when ordering as, although the portions are plentiful, for a proper food fiesta you should sample a selection of their mouth watering menu offerings. With this year being their 15th year anniversary, there’s a whole new menu for you to try including delicious spinach queso, Texas cheese poppers and yummy crispy chicken tacos. If

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you’re on a diet, don’t despair. A few healthy choices such as the colorfully layered Avocado Burger or the delectable BBQ Chicken Salad will keep you on the right track.

Every time we go, my kids always opt for the immorally delicious BBQ Ribs, slow-smoked over Pecan Wood so that they literally fall off the bone. For vegetarians, I’d recommend the appetizing Veggie Quesadilla.

Treat yourself to the heavenly chocolate molten cake, chocolate cake with an oozing liquid centre and served with a dollop of ice-cream, to wrap up your feast and keep the whole family satisfied.

With good food and quality service, Chili’s is a great place to hang out with family and friends.

BUSINESS

MBA’s. Essential studies or Expensive waste?

By Hanadi Jamal

As the financial crisis struck the world in the third quarter of 2008, the UAE watched the collapse of its economy.

Some companies declared bankruptcy; others witnessed a dramatic drop in stocks and more than a few suspended projects due to lack of finance whether that be personal or invested. In order to avoid more damages, some companies began cutting or freezing salaries, or terminating employee contracts.

Today, even after the recovery process is well underway, many employees, job seekers, and fresh graduates are worried about becoming the next victims of a crisis. They are keen to secure their positions and, in order to prove themselves necessary, are striving to fatten up their resumes.

One program which has seen an influx of candidates since the recession is the MBA or Masters of Business Administration course. Offered at various institutions throughout the UAE, the course has seen demand surge to record highs as candidates look to improve their skill sets.

The MBA was first established in the USA and allows students to study various areas of business including accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, operations management, etc. So, why are candidates opting to study this course? What makes it important?

Well, first of all, an MBA holder can demand a higher salary than those without. According to payscale.com, a general manager can earn up to five times more than an average accountant.

Secondly, MBA holder’s can obtain higher positions than those without as they have gained a particular skill set, crucial in the world of business and economy and mandatory for carving relationships with corporate owners, employees and contractors.

Thirdly, MBA holders have had practical and theoretical training, making them ready to jump in, feet first and deal with problems, issues

or in taking risks, which is probably the strongest reason why employers usually select them over non-MBA holders.

There are however, those who feel that sometimes, an MBA is not worth the paper it is written on. One reason given for this is that many institutions have simply jumped on the MBA bandwagon, and that this is clearly evident to assessors. According to the Financial Times, Hult International Business School and SP Jain School of Global Management, both in Dubai, feature in the Top 100 Global MBA List. Forbes Middle East also ranked MBA courses from 37 establishments throughout the Middle East and found that The American University of Sharjah was in second place, while the Canadian University of Dubai came in third. Government universities were ranked separately and, Zayed University took tenth position while the UAEU University was 20th. Many experts in the region believe that any MBA programs not featured predominantly in these lists are simply a waste of time and money, and are not offering candidates worthwhile certificates.

Furthermore, without starting at entry level, it is difficult for employees to fill a managerial position whether or not they have an MBA. To be able to work through the ranks of a company affords a person a sense of the tasks, responsibilities and duties of different employees within the company, a crucial understanding that is simply lost when a new manager is drafted in simply because they have an MBA. Thus, while it’s always important to add to your resume, it’s essential for candidates thinking of taking up the MBA to do some thorough research. Firstly, think what will the MBA help you achieve? Secondly, will it be valued and worth the investment in your chosen field? Finally, are you planning to study at an institution with a good reputation?

When you have the answers you can make an informed decision and avoid falling into the trap where post graduate studies become a means simply for making money!

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27

‫ﺗﻤﺘﻊ ﻣﻊ ﺷﻴﻠﻴﺰ ﺑﻮﻟﺪر اﻟﺠﺪﻳﺪة‬ ‫ﻣﺠﺎﻧ اﺣﺼﻞ ﻋﻠﻰ ﺷﻴﺒﺲ وﺻﻠﺼﺔ‬ ‫ﻋﻨﺪ إرﺳﺎل ”‪ ”CHIPS 3‬اﻟﻰ اﻟﺮﻗﻢ ‪4719‬‬ ‫)اﺗﺼﺎﻻت ودو(‬ ‫@ﺳﻌﺮ اﻟﺮﺳﺎﻟﺔ اﻟﻌﺎدﻳﺔ‬

‫‪DUBAI 04 3440088 ABU DHABI 02 6716300 SHARJAH 06 5744002‬‬ ‫‪AL AIN 06 5744002 RAS AL KHAIMAH 06 5744002 FUJEIRAH 09 2236943‬‬

‫‪thesourceuae.com‬‬

‫‪C‬‬

SUDOKU Easy

5 2

2 3

4 3

6

Difficult

3

1 2

6 9

8

4

5

8

8

4

2

3

1

7

4 7

2

7 6

2

MAZE

4

FIND YOUR WAY TO FREEDOM!

5

1

3

8

9

6

7

6 3 1

9

9

6 6

9

6 6

4

3

3 1

2

1

5

1 3

2

3

8

1

4

5

5

6

9

8

8

2 1

7

4

DOTS & BOXES 2 CAN PLAY THIS GAME!

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