THE SELF-CARE REVOLUTION HAS FINALLY CAUGHT UP WITH MEN
STAFF BOX
Publisher Gabriel John Rimando
Publications Manager
Ryan Namia
Editor-in- Chief Angelo Reyes Dumag
Contributing Writers
Hasintha Edirisinghe
Samantha Joffe
Elton Bolton
Aaya AbuNahwa
Sayed Hussain
Sales and Marketing Manager Orli Gayeta
Sales and Marketing Elaine Marbella
Joel Lara Genove
John Paul Cosico
Senior Graphic Designer Allan Caragao
Multimedia Manager Jonathan Dumas
Distribution Manager
Raymart Patulot
Distribution
Qassim Quereshi
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Rami Hajjar, a 33-year-old Armenian who is the Chief Executive Officer of D&R Jewels, one of the fastestgrowing jewelry companies in the United Arab Emirates, believes that a dream is not impossible for those who work hard.
A culinary voyage with a fusion of French saveur and Middle Eastern delicacies
This February, seekers of luxury, tasteful experiences are invited to indulge in a delectable afternoon tea experience at Olivier’s Lounge in Sofitel Dubai The Palm. Meticulously crafted by award-winning Executive Pastry Chef, Akshay Batra, this
culinary voyage fuses rich French saveur with Middle Eastern delicacies, to offer a flavoursome menu of sweet and savory treats.
An ultimate gastronomic experience led by Chef Batra’s passion for taste, the exquisite afternoon tea menu features a selection of sumptuous flavours from Truffle Profiteroles to Strawberry Baklava, paired with a perfectly brewed cup of single origin tea. Alongside the new local favourites, the special menu is perfected with an abundance of classic afternoon tea snacks that are as tempting as they are indulgent. Think scones with
jam and clotted cream, petite cakes as well as local-inspired treats.
With an array of teas on offer, created with refreshing aromas and a delightful variety of natural herbs, the afternoon tea experience at Olivier’s Lounge in Sofitel Dubai The Palm is created for guests to experience a moment of serenity and bliss with every sip. All elements of the afternoon tea including the flavours, ambience, and surroundings come together to take guests on a beautiful and relaxing journey.
Asian Fusion Fine Dining this Valentine’s Day
INTERSECT BY LEXUS, the fine dining venue at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), has announced their plans for Valentine’s Day, featuring unlimited Sushi, gifts for every couple, and an alluring ambiance to create the perfect
setting for an evening of romance.
Taking place from 7pm ‘till late on Tuesday, 14th February 2023, the Valentine’s Day Dinner at INTERSECT BY LEXUS will feature a delicious menu of unlimited Sushi, which can be complemented by an add-on beverage package with a selection including exotic mixology, house beverages, creative mocktails, the finest Japanese Sencha green tea and crafted coffee. The ladies
will receive a complimentary rose upon arrival, whilst the gents will receive a box of macarons to sweeten the occasion.
The Valentine’s Day Dinner is the latest experience from INTERSECT BY LEXUS offering guests a personalised taste of exquisite modern Asian fusion dishes along with the renowned Japanese Omotenashi hospitality and the creative confluence of art, design, and technology.
The collection features renditions of the sun and moon symbolizing harmonized energy and wellbeing
Ukrainian artist Maria Lys will unveil her ‘Lunar’ exhibition at BOCCARA Gallery in Gate Avenue, DIFC, displaying multiple perspectives of the sun and moon representing multilayered emotions, harmonized energy and wellbeing. The exhibition will run for the entire month of February and is free to attend for the general public. The exhibition’s launch night will be held on 1st February from 6-9pm and will be attended by Maria as well.
Maria Lys is a contemporary artist who utilizes traditional painting methods, fluid art techniques, epoxy resin as well as gold and silver leaves to create unique pieces that play with colour and appeal to viewers’ subconscious. Occasionally, she integrates semi-precious stones and minerals to add a natural touch and sacred mystery to her work. She believes that artists are conductors of higher energy and uses her painting as a tool for expressing her innermost feelings and experiences.
The Lunar exhibition presents an array of distinctive sun and moon renditions that are bold and playful. The use of gold and silver in her works symbolize wealth. Similarly, the sun represents the symbols of power, creative energy, vitality, passion, courage, eternal youth,
knowledge, intelligence and masculine energy. On the other hand, the moon reflects sunlight embodying feminine energy with fertility, water, rebirth and a cyclical process. Additionally, her artwork with blossoming trees portray the coming of spring with emotions of newness, youth and love.
Maria is currently based in Dubai and her artwork has been displayed in international galleries in the UAE, Ukraine, Italy and Luxembourg. Her works are also held in private collections in Portugal, Sweden, Turkey, Georgia, Canada and Qatar. Lunar presented by Maria Lys will be exhibited in BOCCARA Gallery until 28th February 2023. The exhibition’s launch night will be held on 1st February from 6-9pm.
Visitors can treat themselves to a multisensory experience by sipping on premium coffee while admiring vibrant art
Skaya Art Agency, a Dubai-based boutique art consultancy is proud to present Anna Chekh’s latest exhibition - ‘The Shadow Man’ in Roasters Specialty Coffee House in Jumeirah. The exhibition will feature artwork showcasing Anna’s distinctive art style of a shadow man that portrays society’s want of experiencing everything while staying unknown. Visitors will also have the chance to win a limitededition print artwork from her collection on display through a social media competition. The exhibition will run from 23rd January to 23rd February and is free to attend making it an ideal way for art enthusiasts to view vibrant paintings with deep meanings while enjoying premium snacks and coffee.
Anna Chekh is a Ukrainian contemporary artist who uses various mediums while embracing technology and interactive art. From acrylic paintings and digital art to NFTs and live performances, her art combines contemporary surrealism with expressionism to showcase social topics through cartoonish characters. She believes that an artist should restore energy to society and aims to positively influence viewers through her artwork.
By presenting her collection in a cafe setting, Anna’s exhibition is a trendy take on evoking a multisensory experience through taste and sight. Roasters Specialty Coffee House in Jumeirah is a homegrown premium cafe with a rooftop lounge and views of the Burj Khalifa. With aesthetic interiors and a serene atmosphere, the cafe is an ideal location to dine in. Guests can complement their delicious meals and high-quality coffee with brew-tiful displays of the art on its interior walls.
Threaded throughout the art collection, a dark and faceless shadow man can be spotted. The shadow man represents
society’s alter ego who emerges unannounced and wishes to experience life anonymously. It is a reflection of society’s growing isolation from reallife interactions and a shift towards behavioural patterns of virtuality. Visitors can also view a limited-edition print from the collection titled ‘Patience’ which can be won through a joint social media competition hosted by Anna Chekh and Roasters Specialty Coffee House.
Anna is currently based in Thailand and her paintings have been displayed in Dubai, Tokyo and Barcelona, and held in international galleries and private collections in the USA, Germany, Italy and Ukraine. ‘The Shadow Man’ by Anna Chekh presented by Skaya Art Agency is currently hosted in Roasters Specialty Coffee House in Jumeirah and will be exhibited until 23rd February 2023.
To find out more visit: https://www. skayagallery.com .For more information about Anna Chekh please visit: https:// www.skayagallery.com/artists/31-annachekh/biography/
The French Dairy Board and the European Union are offering artisan croissants using the finest dairy butter on Saturday, 28 January, at Spinneys Umm Suqeim
Paying homage to the croissant on its special day and as part of Butter Stories, the campaign developed by the French Dairy Board and the European Union to showcase dairy butter as the key ingredient in croissants. Throughout the day, shoppers will have the chance to taste butter croissants at the Spinneys Umm Suqeim branch on Saturday, 28 January.
Marie-Laure Martin, International Communication Director from CNIEL,
said: “We are delighted to offer customers the opportunity to taste the famous and classic Croissant au beurre, which, in France, is the first pastry consumed before the pain au chocolat.
“Like 88% of French people who buy and eat croissants every morning, we wanted to create a truly authentic experience, so visitors can enjoy butter croissants from a pop-up designed to look like a traditional Parisian Bakery*.”
The award-winning Spinneys artisan croissants are made with French dairy butter. The natural ingredient elevates the flavour of the patisserie giving it its exceptional taste and creating the perfect bite.
The grand love affair with French butter dates back centuries and combines years of experience and abundant lush pastures in the French countryside. French butter has less water and is higher in fat (minimum of 85%), giving the croissant
a flaky and crispy texture on the outside and a soft, tender filling on the inside that can be pulled apart.
Chef Dimitri Esposito, Head Pastry Chef at Jumeirah al Qasr, said: “The key to making a good croissant is good butter. Sourcing the right butter will enhance the end product and ensure a better taste and experience. You can also taste the whole philosophy behind the butter and its origins. The soul of the ingredient gives the croissant its unique taste.”
Chefs worldwide have long used butter as a crucial ingredient at the base of their recipes, particularly the croissant.
Everyone is invited to celebrate World Croissant Day on Saturday, 28 January, at Spinneys Umm Suqeim Dubai, from 10 am to 7 pm while stocks last.
It was the first time an artist in a country combined four artworks in a country’s flag.
Jyo John Mulloor, a visual artist living in Dubai, has been making waves worldwide with his reimagined artworks of Dubai. He was most known for his digital artwork of the snow-covered UAE.
This 38-year-old digital artist was greatly inspired by his experiences in the UAE over his many years in the country. His career has been shaped, and his abilities have never been overlooked.
He utilizes his ability to reimagine the UAE in other seasons, eras, and worlds to honor what the UAE has given him. However, his artwork is not as just as everyone may think. It has a deeper meaning; according to him, it represents
the colors of his beloved UAE.
When asked what drove him to start the initiative, he told Dubai Vibes Magazine, “It’s my homage to the country as an artist.”
He also stated that on December 3, the flag day, he will upload his 51 NFTs (nonfungible tokens) as a homage to the UAE’s 51 years. There will be a UAE flag buildup with all four masterpieces he created.
His digital artworks have the following meanings:
1. SNOW IN THE UAE
According to Jyo, snow signifies the color white in the UAE flag and marks the beginning of a dream that will become a reality. As in Dubai, the plan never dies; it is transformed into a reality.
2. SPRING IN THE UAE
The color green represents spring on the UAE flag, and it is inspired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai’s vision for Dubai.
3. EMARATIA
Emaratia currently signifies the color red as a homage to the UAE’s latest project, the Hope Mission, a voyage to Mars.
4. PANDORA
Finally, Pandora is the black hue of the flag inspired by Cameron’s film and represents what happens when dreams and vision collide. Nothing is impossible in Dubai.
Be patient; everything happens for a reason
Nothing is out of reach for a dreamer like Sahar Haidar, a Lebanese and Amana’s Director of Global Operations. She believes that patience is essential because everything happens for a reason. Her long path to professional life allowed her to become an expert in her field.
She is ecstatic to be able to lead the Operations function at Amana and collaborate with so many talented and skilled individuals. It’s also exciting for her to take over operations as Amana continues to expand and grow in the region, attracting hundreds of customers daily with its new, all-in-one trading application.
Sahar enjoys taking on leadership roles as the industry evolves. It’s attempting to reshape itself to get closer to the customer. It’s fantastic that she’ll be able to guide Amana’s operations into the future.
“I’d like to take a holistic view of the Operations functions and ensure we keep the bigger picture in mind without getting lost in the details and microelements. I want to create a function that does not just help Amana meet customer needs but anticipates their needs,” she said.
Her experiences shaped her to be wiser, smarter, and more courageous. Sahar has been in the financial industry for years, including over ten at Amana.
Many things have changed in the financial industry in those years. She considers herself fortunate to have witnessed the transition from a traditional, analog model to a modern, customer-focused way of doing business.
When asked what she enjoys most about her current job, she told Dubai Vibes Magazine that she has an exceptional memory and enjoys working with numbers. Finance is a perfect fit for someone like her. She also stated that she is fortunate because her skills and passions are closely related.
Obstacles that she overcame
Sahar was offered to relocate to Dubai two years before she did so. She had some reservations about the idea; she was curious if she was ready. She finally mustered the courage to approach her manager.
She was ready to take a risk after two years. She wanted to gain experience and learn about new things, markets, and cities. And according to her, the support she received was incredible. She couldn’t be working for a better organization. She truly believes she is extremely fortunate to be working with her coworkers.
She also said that one of her struggles is her working style. “I get so focused at times that I end up almost disconnected from the surrounding world. I get started
when someone suddenly appears in my office! When I’m digging into a problem or issue, I get so into it that I lose track of time.”
Sahar describes Dubai as an exceptionally well-organized city after five years in the emirate. Even simple tasks can be significantly facilitated by applications that make people’s lives easier.
She also stated that Dubai is highly wellestablished and extremely safe. The Dubai way of life is truly a dream come true. Sahar also said that one could live the best life in Dubai. It is incredibly diverse and international.
Downtown Dubai is one of her favorite places in Dubai. For her, the city is alive with energy and positive vibes. She also enjoys the Palm for its beaches and fantastic restaurants. The setting is so unique that it makes her feel enchanted.
“Dubai became my home. I can’t imagine living anywhere else at this point in my life. It’d be quite the challenge to find the quality of life and the energy of Dubai somewhere else.”
Sustainability advocate views work as a public service
Getting out of one’s comfort zone is one of the most challenging things to do in life. We, as humans, have always desired satisfaction and comfort. Still, it is also necessary to be out of the ordinary to bring out the best, discover, and grow through new experiences.
Ventzi Naydenova, a Bulgarian-American, believes that remaining curious can lead to a wealth of knowledge. She is currently the Exclusive Distributor of Percuro Insect Protein Petfood in the GCC. This woman is a multifaceted individual who works in various fields. She was born in Bulgaria, grew up in the United States of America, and moved to Dubai 13 years ago; her exposure to the world and different cultures has taught her how to deal with people of different nationalities.
Ventzi has a background in finance. She studied in the United States and worked
in banking in New York City after graduation. She later relocated to Dubai and worked as a consultant for Deloitte. Aside from her professional journey, she has a passion for cooking and has trained as a professional chef in Dubai. She has also assisted in the creation of menus for several restaurants.
“I am proud of that experience because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and pursue a true passion, which came with a good confidence boost when you try something new and do well in it,” she said.
Ventzi also mentioned that as adults, we tend to stick to what we know and that exploration becomes less and less as we get older.
She has tried many things in her professional career, some of which have worked and some have not, but the most important thing for her is that she never stops trying and being curious. Her greatest inspiration is her father, who was born to be a leader and entrepreneur.
“The highlight of my career has been starting something on my own, which I have always wanted to do,” Ventzi said.
Everything began with introduction of Percuro Insect Protein pet food to the UAE. Given the developing nature of the industry and the outsized impact that could be achieved by replacing traditional livestock pet food ingredients with insect protein.
According to her, she knew this was a place she wanted to invest her time and energy. During her journey, she was astounded to learn that livestock farming contributes
approximately 18% of global carbon emissions and that a staggering 20% of all livestock, poultry, and fish is used to feed the 500 million pet companions.
Ventzi also stated that her company is more than just a business; it is an excellent public mission. She said that their work is very much in line with sustainability and environmental protection.
“We are part of a quiet revolution sweeping the pet industry. “Not only is insect protein pet food environmentally friendly, but it is also a nutritionally superior source of protein that does not require the use of hormones and antibiotics during farming,” she explained.
For Ventzi, this project is more than just a business; it is a mission to make life more comfortable for all living things.
In keeping with this mission, raising awareness for an entirely new product category that still needs to be created in the market can be challenging. However, she enjoys selling and conversing with others. One of the most fulfilling feelings for her is educating others about their mission.
Despite having worked in various fields, Ventzi will always ensure that every step she takes serves a purpose. She is a woman who strives for greater heights by becoming more curious every day of her life.
Finally, her ultimate dream is for her family always to be close and together, no matter how old the children are.
The world has its own definition of beauty, but in today’s world, this term has become more ambiguous as our environment has become more subjective and open to the realities of life. Technically, beauty is defined as a combination of qualities that please the aesthetic senses, particularly sight. In fact, in this society, everyone has their own standards and graces when it comes to the word beauty.
For an Iranian supermodel, influencer, and actress named Sama Zakeri, who works in the entertainment industry, beauty is always present if someone finds joy and happiness in any situation. Being a positive thinker and living life in king size is the true beauty of life.
Sama has a bachelor’s degree in interior design. She spent many years working as an interior designer in Iran before moving to Dubai four years ago to pursue her Dubai dream. Her career in Dubai began as a model for several brands including EMAAR, Revive, Baylandi, and Dior Beauty.
This beautiful woman has been exposed to the world of arts and has a strong desire to transform simple things into elegant, sophisticated, and stylish pieces. Sama enjoys meeting new people, communicating with them, and building networks that eventually lead to friendships.
According to Sama, her industry requires a great deal of communication. Because this is her passion and desire, she ensures that cherishing every moment brings her fulfillment and satisfaction. Every day at work is precious to her, and she must take care of it.
People may see her in the camera and think that everything is fine and beautiful, but behind the scenes, their faces and bodies appear tired and exhausted.
“There are times when I have to work overnight. So there are nights when she does not go to bed, and it is difficult,” she explained.
She also mentioned how cold the studio can be at times, and how hot the outdoor shoot can be in the middle of summer. Clients may also request that she work overtime, but when it comes to payment, they will not agree on the appropriate amount for overtime work.
Although the field in which she is currently employed is her passion, there are obstacles in her path to success. Her path has never been easy, and she must overcome obstacles in order to survive and overcome all trials.
“Generally speaking, whenever and wherever I faced any difficulties in my life, I threw myself to God’s hand, which means I kept calm and trusted his plan for me,” Sama explained.
According to Sama philosophy, life is all about joy and happiness. Happiness, she believes, can be found by being generous to others. According to her, she finds happiness in assisting others, and it has become her hobby throughout her life to assist others as much as she can without expecting anything in return.
In her industry, she is always giving advice to models who are just starting out, giving them tips and encouraging
them to achieve their dreams. For Sama, helping people build can have a huge impact on others because the fashion and modeling industries have never been easy. There will always be competition.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from helping people build their careers and alleviate their difficulties. I consider taking the initiative to be the one who can offer assistance,” Sama said.
Sama is madly in love with Dubai. It has been an excellent environment in which she has been able to realize the majority of her ambitions.
According to her, Dubai combines safety, rules, love, care, and incredible opportunities under one roof.
Downtown is one of her favorite places in the emirate. She believes that each location has its own energy, but she feels the different vibes of Downtown.
Dubai molded her to be more confident, brave, and generous enough to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Finally, she stated that her ultimate goal for her family and herself is good health, a peaceful life, and a lot of happiness.
Sparkling success story Rami and Donna Hajjar
From online sellers to owning one of UAE’s leading jewelry shops
“For me, the word ‘dream’ is a big one. However, I have always made my dreams a reality.”
Rami Hajjar, a 33-year-old Armenian who is the Chief Executive Officer of D&R Jewels, one of the fastest-growing jewelry companies in the United Arab Emirates, believes that a dream is not impossible for those who work hard.
Rami’s success can be traced back to his professional career. It all started in 2010 when he finished his associate of
Banking Financial Accounting at Aleppo University. Having been born in Syria and of Armenian descent, he began working with his father at a very young age at his workshop for manufacturing car parts. During that time, he already understood the importance of hard work.
Working during his childhood kept his eyes open to the reality of life, and he was eager to build up his dreams and make them a reality. When he was a teenager, he was obsessed with technology, particularly computers. He then learned how to design, program, and discover websites.
Since then, technology has been his passion; at 17, Rami began translating movies from English to Arabic and selling them in the market; this was his first job. The moment is very precious to him because it was the job that inspired him to dream bigger and learn to utilize his talent.
He flew to Dubai after finishing university to look for work. His first job in the emirates was as a waiter in a coffee shop, and he later used his translation skills for traders. He then worked as an accountant and an outdoor salesman for a car spare parts company. He found it easier to adapt to the workplace because the automotive job was familiar. After all, it was his father’s work.
“I decided with my partner to have an extra income in 2015. So, with a minimal investment of $1000, we began selling jewelry online.”
After a while, it worked well for them, and in 2016, they launched D&R Pure Jewels as an online retailer of jewelry and watches. The brand became prosperous due to the people who supported and loved its products.
Fortunately, their brand continued to fly in its haven in 2018, and at that time, they created and launched their very own brand of watches as an Armenian brand.
These blessings he received resulted from his and his partner’s efforts. As a result, Rami is grateful to have his wife as a cornerstone and foundation of his life and business.
“My partner has taught me how to distinguish between work and home. After work, I have to relax and enjoy every moment with my family while navigating life’s tomorrows,” he said.
He also stated that the lesson his wife taught him benefits not only him but also his loved ones and family.
When Dubai Vibes Magazine asked him what he liked best about his job, he said that everything about it makes him happy, especially when they make more sales in a day and see daily progress in all the hard work, they put in. For the time being, he is enjoying doing photography and videography to improve the images on their online platforms as they rebuild their brand to be the best.
“The most satisfying thing is seeing our people grow with us as they excel the way we do. Because our success is also their success,” Rami explained.
According to Rami, everything will not be possible in the face of success if there are no challenges along the way. Struggles will always be present, whether personal, business or otherwise. This type of struggle makes a person vulnerable, but it also makes a person strong enough to
fight life’s battles.
“In business, we did struggle to reach people because the platform changed so frequently. The online platform is only temporary, as it always is, but it never stops, and we will not give up on rebuilding and making our name our legacy in the future,” Rami said.
Finally, he expressed gratitude for all his blessings, including the gift of family and
a home that was once only a dream but is now a reality, a woman with whom he can spend the rest of his life, and a legacy for our future children.
Rami believes that the key to true success is always to put God at the center of everything.
Eric has over 15 years of UAE hospitality experience, having worked in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman for major international brands such as Radisson Hotel Group, Ramada Hotels, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
Eric was born and raised in the UAE and holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality from the Swiss Hotel Management School in Montreux, Switzerland, as well as an MBA in General Management from Emirates Aviation University in Dubai.
The 304-room Premier Inn Dragon Mart opened in 2019 and welcomed over 156,000 domestic and international guests in 2018. The property is close to Dragon Mart, the world’s largest Chinese trading hub outside of China, with its 5,000 shops, restaurants, and attractions.
“I am delighted to join Premier Inn and work with this exciting, much-loved brand as it expands its footprint in the region,” said Eric.
“I look forward to using my extensive experience to further enhance the guest journey in line with Premier Inn’s vision to be the Middle East’s hotel brand renowned for high value and high quality.”
Premier Inn, the UK’s largest – and favourite – hospitality brand, currently operates seven hotels in Dubai, two in Abu Dhabi and two in Qatar.
Fadeel Wehbe has been appointed as the Multi-Property General Manager at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre and Le Meridien Fairway.
Fadeel who holds a degree majoring in Hotel and Restaurant Management from University of Denver, Colorado, USA will be assigned to both properties, and started on August 15th.
With a career journey that goes beyond 30 years, he has an extensive experience and great knowledge in the field of hospitality. Fadeel will be in charge of the 44,000 square foot venue which is home to 18 F&B outlets including the famous Warehouse, The Dubliner’s, Yalumba, Kiku, Bounty Beets, Casa Mia and more.
In his previous role, Fadeel was the General Manager of Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Residences, DIFC, Dubai, UAE. He was in charge of overseeing 341 guest rooms along with 130 branded residences. Under his strong and committed leadership, the property won “Middle East’s Leading Luxury Business Hotel 2020” award by the World Travels Awards in 2020.
The man behind the operations of Middle East’s Leading Luxury Business Hotel
l-Futtaim Automotive has announced a new Managing Director for Toyota & Lexus UAE, Jacques Brent. He takes the helm of two of the UAE’s most popular and best-selling automotive brands, with a mission to propel the business forward across diverse verticals and achieve planned improvements in customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention across sales and after-sales, advance green mobility objectives, and develop future-proof solutions to create a seamless omnichannel experience that embodies Al-Futtaim Automotive’s customer-centric service offering.
Over a nearly 30-year stellar automotive career, Jacques has amassed diverse expertise, including senior level positions in marketing, finance, sales and business management in Ford, while also steering the pre-owned sector advancement of South Africa’s largest independent dealer group, Halfway; a stint which added to his diverse spectrum of experiences.
Prior to his move to South Africa, Jacques
enjoyed a highly successful 24-year career with Ford, starting at Ford’s South Africa operation in 1995, and culminating in a role as Global Director, Product Marketing at Ford’s HQ in Dearborn, Michigan. In this role, he was responsible for alignment between Ford’s Marketing and Product Development activities, including improving the product planning process, representing the voice of the customer for all Ford and Lincoln products globally, and leading pricing strategy.
Brent’s first experience in Asia Pacific came with a move to Ford’s Shanghai office to take on the role of Executive Marking Director for the Asia Pacific and Africa region, following a successful term as Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service for Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa. Jacques then served as the President of Ford Middle East & Africa, where he led the company’s operations across 70 markets at the newlylaunched business unit headquartered in Dubai.
During the latter part of his career, Jacques was deeply involved in Ford’s transition to electric vehicles, experience which will prove pivotal in supporting Al-Futtaim Automotive’s sustainable mobility strategy.
Commenting on the appointment, Jacques shared, “I am extremely excited to join Al-Futtaim Automotive, the UAE’s automotive market leader, in a time of global challenges and huge opportunity. As the industry moves into an era of unprecedented disruption, being able to work with Al-Futtaim Automotive to develop the highly regarded Toyota and Lexus brands, which are household names in the UAE, through this transition will be a highly rewarding experience. I look forward to meeting these challenges with the exceptional level of service excellence that customers have come to expect from Al-Futtaim.”
Also speaking on the future of mobility and aligning the business with the wider vision of the UAE on sustainability, Jacques said, “The speed at which the UAE’s National Smart Mobility and electrification objectives are progressing is truly impressive. This, together with vehicle connectivity, will be the largest disruption to the automotive industry in this decade. In the UAE, the government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and I look forward to guiding Toyota and Lexus in supporting the UAE leadership’s efforts towards green mobility and electrification for the years to come.”
Globalimage credit: supplied
Al-Futtaim Automotive has announced a new Managing Director for Toyota & Lexus UAE, Jacques Brent. He takes the helm of two of the UAE’s most
popular and best-selling automotive brands, with a mission to propel the business forward across diverse verticals and achieve planned improvements in customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention across sales and after-sales, advance green mobility objectives, and develop future-proof solutions to create a seamless omnichannel experience that embodies Al-Futtaim Automotive’s customer-centric service offering.
Over a nearly 30-year stellar automotive career, Jacques has amassed diverse expertise, including senior level positions in marketing, finance, sales and business management in Ford, while also steering the pre-owned sector advancement of South Africa’s largest independent dealer group, Halfway; a stint which added to his diverse spectrum of experiences.
Prior to his move to South Africa, Jacques
enjoyed a highly successful 24-year career with Ford, starting at Ford’s South Africa operation in 1995, and culminating in a role as Global Director, Product Marketing at Ford’s HQ in Dearborn, Michigan. In this role, he was responsible for alignment between Ford’s Marketing and Product Development activities, including improving the product planning process, representing the voice of the customer for all Ford and Lincoln products globally, and leading pricing strategy.
Brent’s first experience in Asia Pacific came with a move to Ford’s Shanghai office to take on the role of Executive Marking Director for the Asia Pacific and Africa region, following a successful term as Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service for Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa. Jacques then served as the President of Ford Middle East & Africa, where he led the company’s operations across 70 markets at the newly-launched business unit headquartered in Dubai. During the latter part of his career, Jacques was deeply involved in Ford’s transition to electric vehicles, experience which will prove pivotal in supporting Al-Futtaim Automotive’s sustainable mobility strategy.
Commenting on the appointment, Jacques shared, “I am extremely excited to join Al-Futtaim Automotive, the UAE’s automotive market leader, in a time of global challenges and huge opportunity. As the industry moves into an era of unprecedented disruption, being able to work with Al-Futtaim Automotive to develop the highly regarded Toyota and Lexus brands, which are household names in the UAE, through this transition will be a highly rewarding experience. I look forward to meeting these challenges with the exceptional level of service excellence that customers have come to expect from Al-Futtaim.”
Also speaking on the future of mobility and aligning the business with the wider vision of the UAE on sustainability, Jacques said, “The speed at which the UAE’s National Smart Mobility and electrification objectives are progressing is truly impressive. This, together with vehicle connectivity, will be the largest disruption to the automotive industry in this decade. In the UAE, the government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and I look forward to guiding Toyota and Lexus in supporting the UAE leadership’s efforts towards green mobility and electrification for the years to come.”
Empowered CEO
as a true person at heart
Seasoned hotel operator Dhiraj Bagai and corporate hospitality stalwart Naji Moukhachen to join the Al Khoory team to drive the next phase of the operator’s growth
Al-Futtaim Automotive has announced a new Managing Director for Toyota & Lexus UAE, Jacques Brent. He takes the helm of two of the UAE’s most popular and best-selling automotive brands, with a mission to propel the business forward across diverse verticals and achieve planned improvements in customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention across sales and after-sales, advance green mobility objectives, and develop future-proof solutions to create a seamless omnichannel experience that embodies Al-Futtaim Automotive’s customer-centric service offering.
Over a nearly 30-year stellar automotive career, Jacques has amassed diverse expertise, including senior level positions in marketing, finance, sales and business management in Ford, while also steering the pre-owned sector advancement of South Africa’s largest independent dealer group, Halfway; a stint which added to
his diverse spectrum of experiences.
Prior to his move to South Africa, Jacques enjoyed a highly successful 24-year career with Ford, starting at Ford’s South Africa operation in 1995, and culminating in a role as Global Director, Product Marketing at Ford’s HQ in Dearborn, Michigan. In this role, he was responsible for alignment between Ford’s Marketing and Product Development activities, including improving the product planning process, representing the voice of the customer for all Ford and Lincoln products globally, and leading pricing strategy.
Brent’s first experience in Asia Pacific came with a move to Ford’s Shanghai office to take on the role of Executive Marking Director for the Asia Pacific and Africa region, following a successful term as Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service for Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa. Jacques then served as the President of Ford Middle East
& Africa, where he led the company’s operations across 70 markets at the newlylaunched business unit headquartered in Dubai.
During the latter part of his career, Jacques was deeply involved in Ford’s transition to electric vehicles, experience which will prove pivotal in supporting Al-Futtaim Automotive’s sustainable mobility strategy.
Commenting on the appointment, Jacques shared, “I am extremely excited to join Al-Futtaim Automotive, the UAE’s automotive market leader, in a time of global challenges and huge opportunity. As the industry moves into an era of unprecedented disruption, being able to work with Al-Futtaim Automotive to develop the highly regarded Toyota and Lexus brands, which are household names in the UAE, through this transition will be a highly rewarding experience. I look forward to meeting these challenges with the exceptional level of service
excellence that customers have come to expect from Al-Futtaim.”
Also speaking on the future of mobility and aligning the business with the wider vision of the UAE on sustainability, Jacques said, “The speed at which the UAE’s National Smart Mobility and electrification objectives are progressing is truly impressive. This, together with vehicle connectivity, will be the largest disruption to the automotive industry in this decade. In the UAE, the government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and I look forward to guiding Toyota and Lexus in supporting the UAE leadership’s efforts towards green mobility and electrification for the years to come.”
Seasoned Art Curator is the newest Managing Director of Inloco Gallery
Inloco Gallery - a newly launched street art gallery pop-up in Dubai, has appointed Anastasia Kopijevski as its Managing Director in February 2023 to guide its launch and oversee its growth development. Anastasia is a seasoned art curator and consultant with experience in organising and managing both local and international art exhibitions. She will lead the gallery’s business and operations strategy alongside continuing work at her boutique art consultancy - Skaya Art Agency.
Combining her diverse experience in the banking industry, luxury interior design in Miami Design District and fashion, Anastasia intimately understands art’s value in a variety of segments and is well-versed in the local and international art market. Through her strategic appointment, she is keen to build Inloco Gallery’s exposure among UAE-based artists, collectors, curators, dealers, and auctioneers with marketing and sales
planning to artist development and arranging public and private art viewings. Anastasia is also the Founder of Skaya Art Agency, a Dubai-based boutique art consultancy that is advancing the UAE’s creative industry with its bespoke, multi-disciplinary art specialist services alongside its roster of represented artists.
“I’m excited to lead Inloco Gallery and hope our work will inspire the next generation of street artists in the UAE. We have exciting exhibitions lined up for our launch and aim to push the boundaries of how street art is perceived with innovative ideas including curated outdoor projects. I look forward to settling into my new role and sharing Inloco’s unique concepts with our stakeholders,” said Anastasia Kopijevski, Managing Director of Inloco Gallery and Founder of Skaya Art Agency.
As a street art gallery, Inloco will showcase urban and contemporary art that is bold and uncompromising. Under Anastasia’s
leadership, it is currently showcasing its first exhibition titled ‘Useless Palace’ which displays creative work which integrates street art with remnants of cultural heritage at the archaeological site of Mleiha Palace in Sharjah. The pieces on display have been made by local and international artists. The gallery is part of the Inloco Initiative, consisting of projects supporting and researching urban art since 2017. Building on its longstanding expertise, it aims to assemble a representative collection of works by cutting-edge street artists and promote their vision.
Art enthusiasts can visit Inloco Gallery’s pop-up in Warehouse 12, Al Khayat Avenue, Al Quoz Dubai to view the ‘Useless Palace’ exhibition.
The Saudi entrepreneur building a home grown activewear empire in UAE
Somaiah Al Dabbagh is an awardwinning athlete and entrepreneur who has embarked on a journey to bring color and confidence to the activewear industry in the region. She is the only Saudi female to have competed in the WBFF (World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation) and was awarded a WBFF Pro Card – an award that confirms an athlete’s professional status in the world of fitness and bodybuilding.
With a background in finance and a passion for fitness, Somaiah noticed a lack of personality in the collections
she encountered. Determined to create a brand that celebrates all women, regardless of age, shape or size, Somaiah launched Maeya in 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Somaiah persevered and turned her vision into a reality.
With its unique, size-inclusive collections and emphasis on comfort and style, Maeya quickly became a sought-after destination for women’s activewear. Designed in Dubai by Somaiah herself, each piece is crafted with care and made to instill confidence in the wearer. Somaiah and her partner, Toby, worked tirelessly to develop Maeya into the thriving business it is today, learning and growing along the way.
Three years later, Maeya continues to inspire women to feel beautiful and confident in their activewear. Somaiah’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication, and Maeya stands as a success story of a homegrown brand.
With over a decade of experience in the fitness industry, she knows what women need to perform at their best.
About Maeya
Introducing Maeya – an online luxury women’s activewear brand is celebrating everybody with its unique and size inclusive activewear, designed to instill confidence and elevate women’s wardrobes. This month, the brand celebrates three years of success in a competitive fitness brand market in the UAE.
The brand was launched in 2020 by Saudi National, Somaiah Al Dabbagh, who is the only Saudi female to have competed in the WBFF (World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation) and was awarded a WBFF Pro Card – an award that confirms an athlete’s professional status in the world of fitness and bodybuilding.
Three years later, Maeya has now cemented itself as the favourite destination for women’s activewear with its chic and stylish clothing. Featuring a collection of fashion-forward yet functional and luxurious activewear, Maeya offers clothing that really fits everyone irrespective of age, size or colour.
“Our brand’s ethos is to instill confidence and offer an elevated, chic, functional
but trendy wardrobe. In line with this, we’re continuously striving to bring our customers the highest quality products to support their healthy, active lives. We have tried to keep our designs as unique as possible, whilst still keeping to the styles that women are known to love and feel-good wearing,” she added.
Commenting on her journey, Al Dabbagh said: “I’ve always loved the fitness industry. As a fitness enthusiast I wanted to incorporate a slice of my passion into my career hence I decided to launch Maeya. I was actually working in the Finance industry, but the innovative, fast pace of the fitness industry drew me towards this career path.
Somaiah Al Dabbagh is self-taught in textiles and designs and designs all the pieces herself.
One of South Africa’s longest running flagship comedy brands is making its way for the first Dubai edition of the Kings & Queens of Comedy. Bringing world-class comedy to The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates stage, this comedy extravaganza will see comic giants from Africa and the Middle East entertaining audiences on Friday, 27 January 2023.
Shining their comical armour and sharpening their witty swords, the royal line-up taking centre stage includes the Kings of Comedy Loyiso Gola, Nik Rabinowitz, Alfred Adriaan, Simmi Areff and Dubai’s very own Abz Ali with a special appearance by the Queen of punny punchlines, Imah Dumagay.
“We pride ourselves on bringing worldclass entertainment to our stages and giving our patrons the true Blu Blood Experience. You are getting a massive line-up of headliner comedians from start to finish. We’ve picked the cream of the crop and we’re excited to be bringing the first Dubai edition of Kings & Queens of Comedy,” share Osman Osman and Shaaista Khan Osman from Blu Blood.
Celebrating 10 years of the brand this year, the brand has grown to be one of the leading comedy brands in South Africa. “Our line-ups are what comedyloving audiences love about attending our shows. It’s a brand that we have nurtured and that we are extremely proud of, and the new year will see some exciting developments from our end.”
Another premiere experience brought to you by the entertainment powerhouse brand, Blu Blood.
Residents of the UAE are already looking forward to the upcoming holiday season when they will once again enjoy a lengthy vacation. It just so happens that the next holiday will be Eid Al Fitr, which all UAE residents are entitled to celebrate with a day off from school and work.
This holiday will most likely take place on April 20 or 21, 2023, depending on moon sightings. Although it is a few months away, it is better to be prepared for what the best thing to do with these long days will be. Many of us celebrate it by taking a vacation outside of the country, such as visiting neighboring countries.
It is best to make travel plans early because this is a peak season when everyone is also rushing with their plans. If you are still undecided about where to go during this time, we are willing to assist you with the best and most enjoyable travel experience that you will have.
If you are looking for a much cheaper yet classy and sophisticated country to visit, you should consider the Republic of Armenia. It is one of the best destinations if you want to feel the European vibes and is located 2000 kilometers north of the UAE. If you travel by plane, it may take you 2-4 hours to get from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Yerevan (the capital city).
This is a one-of-a-kind country. People are extremely friendly, and the surroundings are serene and light. Allow yourself to be pampered while touring the best places in Armenia. This is the best place for you if you enjoy nature, history, relaxation, and religion. Every nook and cranny is Instagrammable.
One suggestion for this one is to purchase your ticket, and travel insurance, and apply for your e-visa (for UAE residents). This will save you time while also lowering your expenses. You still have plenty of time to complete this task. It’s better to plan ahead of time. Make your trip hands-on.
Check out Flydubai (based in Dubai) or Wizzair (based in Abu Dhabi) for the cheapest flight tickets. Because it is peak season, a round-trip ticket with a 20kg baggage allowance may cost AED 1,500 and up (subject to change). Following that, you can obtain your travel insurance policy through the PolicybazaarUAE website. For a five-day trip, it could cost up to AED 40. Finally, for this step, apply for an e-visa at https://evisa.mfa.am/. Your stay will only cost AED 28 if you obtain an e-visa.
Accommodation is not expensive for a four-day, three-night stay in Yerevan, especially if you travel in a group. However, it is advised to search for the cheapest hostel, hotel, or studio apartment near Republic Square on booking.com or agoda.com. For budget travelers, four days of lodging may cost AED 400-500.
It is best to book your accommodations ahead of time to get the best possible price. Booking will not charge you anything, and some accommodations accept payment in person. As a result, there is no need to be concerned.
The recommendation is to stay in Yerevan’s center. Perhaps on Mashtots, Amiryan, or any other street near the parks and the square.
Still going through your budget, if you are on a group tour, you will definitely save more money, but if you want to have your soul searching (perfect time) and discover yourself through Armenia, it is also possible to get an exclusive tour at the most affordable price.
If you want to have a unique and memorable tour in Armenia. Making your itinerary and even targeting your travel interests at the most affordable price. It is recommended that you book your tour with Sunny Armenia, an
exclusive travel agency that can meet your needs, particularly in terms of explaining everything in your preferred language.
The team includes speakers of various nationalities who can clearly explain each location. However, if you want a local tour guide who speaks English, they also have native English speakers.
Now, let’s get back to your budget. Sunny Armenia provides half-day and full-day tours, with prices varying according to the number of people in the group. They only charge AED 500 per day for groups of three or more, which includes your private car, bottled water, an exclusive English-tour guide speaker, and savoring your own time. What’s great about Sunny Armenia is that they don’t limit your time. You are welcome to stay for an extended time.
In addition, the tour will provide you with an exclusive package in which the tour guide will take you to the most beautiful scenery in Armenia that has yet to be discovered by other travel and tour agencies. Furthermore, they specialize in seasonal activities. This travel agency is ideal if you want to go mountain trekking or do other springtime activities in different locations.
To book your exclusive tour with them, simply search Sunny Armenia on Facebook or Instagram.
Pocket money will never be an issue in Armenia; just bring your dollars because the USD has a better exchange rate there. AED 1000 is more than enough to last for four days.
It is better to plan your tour now so that you are not concerned about your budget. This article will help you to be self-sufficient, practical, and hands-on in everything. Enjoy the process while waiting for the results. At the end of the day, it is all about self-improvement.
Once a novel concept made for feminine communities, the paradigm of self-care has changed drastically in recent years. So what is this global phenomenon that seems to be necessary
for personal well-being? Although self-care is subjective and differs from person to person, it is the act of being unapologetically self-indulgent. Be it anything from prioritising one’s sleep, to saying no, booking a doctor’s appointment, or never missing your 10step night time skin care routine, the term “self care” refers to small habits that are carried out with the intention of increasing energy, reducing stress, and restoring health.
Despite this, there is misplaced judgement towards society’s attitude and self-care for men. Equality is in a progressive era; it has long expected men to repress their vulnerability to avoid the shifting landscape and conversations surrounding generational norms. But, whilst it’s been said that men should make an effort, but not too much, ultimately, when it comes to male focused self-care, society is currently trailblazing the conversation to erode old barriers. For some, this may be about exploring make-up and skin care products, whereas for others, establishing a more in-depth grooming routine reigns supreme.
Self-care may still be light years away
from full de-stigmatization, but we cannot deny the huge cultural shift surrounding what is now considered ‘acceptable’ for men. Globally, the men’s personal care market is expected to expand by 9.1% from 2022 to 20301. The reason being that the masculine viewpoint of skin care and grooming has changed from a chore often done begrudgingly to a calming and enjoyable practice. The pandemic was a catalyst for many changes, including men who began to dedicate more time to their wellbeing, not just with fitness but also with grooming. This in turn has spurred a change, with steps being taken by individuals and brands alike towards challenging the preconceived notions of masculinity to help men break free of still existing societal limitations.
Interestingly, it has been reported that 49% of men consistently take the time for themselves to practise self-care, whilst only 32% of women can say the same2. Personal care, regardless of gender, has always been about becoming your best self, and this is not something that anyone should be derided for. The practice of taking care of skin health does not need a specific gender badge.
Self-care is a rare space typically dominated by women, whilst men face gender-based stigmas and barriers to entry
The self-care revolution has finally caught up with menimage credit: supplied
The first addictive habit I remember having was at six years old, when I was addicted to Dino Egg Oatmeal. Dino Egg Oatmeal was an oatmeal with sugar coated eggs. When you poured hot water over the oatmeal, the sugary eggs would melt and candy dinosaurs would appear! Dinosaurs are fascinating to six year old children, but I think what interested me more was the feeling of a sugar rush, or a glucose spike, that would start my day. I ate Dino Egg Oatmeal every day for about a year at age six.
Nowadays, I’ve been sober from alcohol for almost four years - and I’m no longer a school teacher. I run yoga retreats, teacher trainings and programs around the world for women who have stopped drinking alcohol and are on the healing journey. I believe yoga goes hand in hand with sobriety because of the philosophies around addiction from the yoga world. In the Eastern Model of addiction, we don’t
see addiction as a separate ailment. We see it as simply an extreme manifestation of an ordinary tendency. It’s simply a condition on the spectrum of human suffering. My yoga teacher Rolf Gates says, “In the Western medical model, addiction is treated as something outside of the ordinary. In the Eastern approach to suffering, attachment to the pleasant and aversion to the unpleasant is seen as a constant, and so addiction is just an extreme manifestation of an ordinary [tendency].”
I believe at the root of addiction is often a coping mechanism with something happening in our lives. More often than not the root issue is not the alcohol, or the food, or the social media itself - it’s our urge to want to escape difficult situations in our life, or emotions, rather than face them head on. Addiction can alter our neural pathways related to feeling pleasure and regulating our emotionstricking us into thinking we need more of that substance to get to a state of balance again - and that’s why we tend to think that we need more of and more of the substance.
Addiction can be so difficult to break out of, because habits are challenging to overcome. Here’s some of my top tips for overcoming your addictive habit:
1. Find a community. When I wanted to quit drinking, my social network around me was really into partying. I didn’t see any other sober people, so I thought I was the only one curious about sobriety. I encourage you to get into a community that supports you, cheers you on, and inspires you.
I have a free Facebook group called Sober Girls Yoga for women questioning their relationship with alcohol - I highly recommend you join if this is the addictive habit you’re working with. But there’s plenty of other groups and resources. Find your like minded community to help you stay connected to your goals.
2. Small Goals Add Up. When I quit drinking I just decided to take a break for a month - and during this time I was so much happier and healthier that I just kept raising the bar and extending it longer. One month became 90 days, became a year, became a life time. If you’re looking at making a significant lifestyle change like cutting sugar, coffee, or alcohol, my encouragement is to commit to a short period of time - like one month or two months. When I work one-on-one with individuals I usually encourage a two-month commitment, or 60 days - so that they can really feel the benefits of sobriety. If you want to try a small period of time, I run 30, 60 and 108 Day Sober Girls Yoga Challenges. Our next one starts
3. Get Accountability. Have someone in your life that’s going to hold you accountable to your decisions. Tell the people around you that you’re no longer eating sugar, you’re no longer consuming caffeine, you’re no longer drinking. If you don’t feel comfortable telling the people around you about your journey, then look for a private support who can hold you accountable like a coach. Someone who you are committed to checking in with along your journey. One of the number one reasons people fail with change is they try to do it alone.
