More stories

  • in

    How I got my job as… Senior Marketing Director at Sunset Hospitality Group

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week, we put the spotlight on Iliana Orietta, Senior Marketing Director of the Daylife Division & Head of Corporate MARCOM at Sunset Hospitality Group, whose brands include a dynamic roster of concepts and brands in Dubai and beyond such as Drift Beach, Aura Skypool Longe, Azure Beach, and Folie Restaurant & Sea in Bodrum, Turkey.
    To understand Iliana’s multi-faceted role, we caught up with the marketing veteran to learn about her remarkable journey, the finer details of crafting the perfect brand experience and upcoming openings in the pipeline.
    Scroll through to read the interview below and find out more.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    I was always attracted to history, geography, and literature, with a weak spot for geography.
    What was your first job?
    I started my career working in travel agencies, and since then, I was always involved in the hospitality industry. It seems I was always destined to work in hospitality and marketing.
    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    Dubai is dynamic, cosmopolitan and has in its core the concept of hospitality; it’s a hub for innovation and my passion for hospitality and marketing drove me here, seeking exciting opportunities in the industry.
    What inspired you to enter the hospitality space?
    I’m originally from Greece, a country at the heart of hospitality and tourism, so it felt natural to start working in travel agencies, hotels, and then event companies and eventually hospitality groups.

    Talk us through the concept of Sunset Hospitality Group.
    Sunset Hospitality Group was founded in 2011 with a vision to create exceptional dining and hospitality experiences worldwide, from hotel resorts and beach clubs to restaurants and nightlife venues. It began with just an idea, driven by a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the market, and now we are fortunate enough to operate very popular brands around the world.
    The last eleven years saw the Group grow at a rapid rate (I’ve been with the Group for six years); we are present in 16 countries, with over 30 brands. Since the beginning we’ve maintained our excellence, diversified our offerings, while continually developing new and pioneering concepts and acclaimed multinational brands. Most of our brands have received local, regional, and international recognitions.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    I lead the marketing strategy for numerous lifestyle brands of Sunset Hospitality Group, as well as heading the Group’s Corporate Marketing. The part I love the most is conceptualizing, developing, and launching new brand concepts – I’m proud of what we’ve achieved so far, for example, we launched the iconic AURA Skypool Lounge, the multi-awarded beach club DRIFT Beach, Dubai’s homegrown concept Azure Beach, and Folie Restaurant & Sea in Bodrum, Turkey. And to name a few, we are working on new and exciting openings in Bali including Attiko, Folie, Santana, Mamasita, we’re taking Dubai’s homegrown concept Azure Beach to Marbella and Vietnam, and we will bring Attiko to Vietnam.

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    My days always start very early – I like to begin with my coffee, then always some form of exercise which gives me energy and strength for the day, and then I head to the office at Sunset’s headquarters. My role requires me very often to travel to several of Sunset’s global destinations as I’m heading projects and managing teams all over the world. At the office, my day is focused on leading a very talented team and working across Marcom strategy, brand conceptualization, reaching financial target goals, designing and implementing brand standards, and managing a growing team of eight locally, and several more globally.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    The key to success is passion and dedication. Loving what you do, being part of an amazing team, and having leaders with a clear vision helps you achieve your wildest dreams. Never give up, and even if you face challenges, you pause, regroup and continue. Find your passion and turn it to a job.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    It never gets easy – you just become better!
    And what is the worst?
    I never received a bad piece of advice. I tend to listen to people I trust and those people always have my best interest in mind.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    Life happens as we progress with our professional career so it’s of course challenging managing personal situations while working in high positions. Maintaining a healthy personal life and a successful professional career will always be my priority.
    What are your future goals and plans for your career?
    I love what I’m doing so my goal is to grow further within Sunset Hospitality Group and be proud of more brand creations, concept openings, and international expansion.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

  • in

    Dubai-based designer Faraz Manan dresses actor Mahira Khan on her big day

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Walking towards her ‘happily ever after’ Pakistani actor Mahira khan looked resplendent on her big day, dressed in decadent couture by Dubai-based designer Faraz Manan.
    Known for her work in Pakistani dramas and movies, Mahira is also well acclaimed internationally for her work in Bollywood and through her global brand affiliations. Having walked the Cannes red carpet and starred in L’Oreal campaigns, the 38-year-old actor needs no introduction amongst the South Asian diaspora.

    Recently, the Humsafar famed actor married her long-time beau, businessman Salim Karim, in an intimate ceremony. Nestled in an isolated location in Bhurban, a small town and a hill station in Punjab province in Pakistan, the venue for the wedding was equally breathtaking.
    For her big day, Mahira chose to wear a dreamy-but-heavily ornamented lehenga by Faraz Manan. Drenched in dove grey, the couture ensemble was painstakingly embroidered with ton-on-tone embellishments, further complemented with two dupattas and polki jadau jewellery.
    Before this, the actor-producer was first married to Ali Askari, with whom she shares her 14-years-old son, Azlan Khan. In the heartwarming visuals of her wedding, her son and younger brother can be seen walking her down the aisle.
    Take a look at the stunning visuals from Mahira Khan’s intimate wedding ceremony:

    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: Feature Image: @mahirahkhan  More

  • in

    “I Conquered Ovarian Cancer And Breast Cancer At The Same Time.”

    “You can decide to let your cancer diagnosis get the better of you or you can choose to fight. There was no other option for me but to fight,” says Robyn Frick, Teamhead Commercial Marketing for PUMA. And fight she did, when in January 2023 Robyn was diagnosed with both breast cancer and ovarian cancer. This is how she went into combat with “The Big C” and came out a champion.

    Being Diagnosed With Breast Cancer And Ovarian Cancer At The Same Time

    “With any diagnosis, hearing that you have cancer comes as quite a shock. This diagnosis would be my second, and little did I know it would be a double whammy,” recalls Robyn. During a 2023 routine check-up, doctors discovered the ovarian cancer she’d been diagnosed with in 2013 had come back. And while undergoing tests, they discovered Robyn also had breast cancer. She had two large lumps in her right breast which had not been visible during a mammogram 6 months prior.

    What’s The Treatment For Fighting Two Separate Cancers?

    “Fighting two different cancers at the same time is somewhat unique,” explains Robyn. “They both require different treatment plans that ideally coincide so one cancer isn’t left to its own devices but that in itself is tricky.”

    Usually, doctors have to make a decision; which cancer they will treat first. In an ideal (albeit rare) circumstance, if the two cancers share characteristics they could respond to the same targeted drug or chemotherapy plan. 

    READ MORE: 11 Symptoms Of Breast Cancer In Women That Aren’t Lumps

    How Common Is It?

    According to WebMD, researchers estimate around 1 in 20 people with cancer have another separate cancer at the same time. “At the same time” is defined as two tumours that occur within less than 6 months of each other.

    Robyn’s Treatment Plan For Fighting Breast Cancer And Ovarian Cancer

    After consulting with a panel of oncologists and surgeons, Robyn’s oncologist came up with the best treatment plan possible. They would tackle her ovarian cancer first – the chemotherapy would treat the breast cancer at the same time – then her breast cancer.

    Her oncology treatment plan included:

    Chemotherapy: 6 cycles of chemo (carboplatin and paclitaxel) which was administered every three weeks and took 6 hours per session.

    Mastectomy: The chemotherapy was followed by a bilateral mastectomy (and immediate reconstruction which she elected for)

    Radiation: Then 5 weeks of radiation with 5 sessions per week.

    A PARP Inhibitor: Before Robyn started with chemo, she consulted with a Geneticist. This was to determine if she carries one of the BRCA gene mutations, which she does – BRCA-1. This opened up the opportunity for her to take a PARP Inhibitor (a type of targeted cancer drug) for post-treatment support. She will take this for the next two years.

    “Alongside my oncology treatment plan, I have a holistic treatment plan which will continue for years to come,” she says.

    Her holistic treatment plan includes:

    Supplements: She takes supplements targeted at her specific cancer

    A special diet: This diet excludes wheat, gluten, sugar and dairy

    Rife Therapy sessions: Rife machines produce low electromagnetic energy waves similar to radio waves

    Vitamin C drips: IV drips quickly increase the levels of ascorbic acid (or Vitamin C) in your blood.

    Exercise

    Spirituality: Robyn is tapping into her spiritual side

    The Biggest Out-Of-Pocket Expense

    With Robyn’s particular cancer, she qualified for a drug called Lynparza – a PARP Inhibitor. In her first consultation with her oncologist, she mentioned this drug would become part of Robyn’s post-chemo treatment plan if she was able to upgrade her medical aid to one of the top plans.

    If not, she would be facing a monthly cost of roughly R90,000 for the next two years.

    “Thankfully I was fortunate enough to be able to do the upgrade, and that monthly cost when compared to the price of the drug is nominal,” she says. 

    READ MORE: My Experience With Breast Cancer, At Age 27

    Inspirational Words For Anyone Who Has Received A Cancer Diagnosis

    “You can decide to let your cancer diagnosis get the better of you or you can choose to fight. There was no other option for me but to fight. Was it hard? Absolutely! Having to deal with a second cancer diagnosis and questioning why it happened to me in the first place, would treatment work this time around, how severe was my cancer diagnosis, had it spread through my whole body? Constant doctor’s visits, undergoing tests, treatments, it becomes exhausting. Losing my hair, losing my breasts, those are two things that define who you are as a woman, right?”

    “But if you choose to fight, you know your hair will grow back, you know that you will have the option for reconstruction (should you choose to do so), and you know that life is about so much more than those things.”

    “Focusing on one day at a time, being present in the moment, the support and love from my family, friends, colleagues, my medical team, even a whole lot of strangers, has definitely made my journey and the bigger picture that little bit easier.”

    You Are More Than Your Diagnosis: 

    “I don’t want my cancer diagnosis to define who I am. While it has forever changed my life and I am grateful to have survived it, I view it as a small part of my journey here on this earth and so many other amazing things have happened in my life which need to be celebrated,” says Robyn.

    Advice For Those Currently Experiencing Breast Cancer

    Take It Step By Step

    “It may sound like a cliché but take one moment at a time – one minute, one hour, one day. This is a journey not a race, so be kind to yourself. You will feel like you again.”

    Rely On Your Circle

    Robyn suggests surrounding yourself with the people who make you laugh, smile and who see you for who you are. On the hard days, let them carry the weight for you. And on the good days, invite them to celebrate with you.

    Do Your Own Research

    Robyn says you should investigate alternative therapies which can live alongside your treatment plan. But she emphasises that you make sure it is done with someone who specialises in cancers. “I have my wing chick and honestly could not have done this without her by my side – I am beyond grateful for her, her knowledge and her passion to find a way to cure cancer,” she says.

    READ MORE: 8 Breast Cancer Myths You NEED To Stop Believing

    Advice Everyone Should Heed About Breast Cancer

    If someone in your immediate family has breast cancer and tests positive for the BRCA 1 or 2 gene mutation, it is recommended that you get tested as well, Robyn emphasises. According to her, you would rather be equipped with that knowledge and take the necessary preventative measures should you test positive.

    “Had I done the gene test after my first diagnosis, I would probably have had a bilateral mastectomy and prevented my current breast cancer diagnosis,” she reflects.

    She highlights that you should really get to know the ins and outs of your body and trust your gut if you think something is amiss.

    How Fighting Breast Cancer And Ovarian Cancer Has Changed Robyn’s Life:

    “Well, first of all, I have a new set of perky boobs and a flat tummy,” she says. Robyn chose DIEP Flap surgery as reconstruction is done immediately and would eliminate the number of operations she would need to undergo had she selected implants. “My plastic surgeon was also very pro this surgery,” she says.

    Thankfully, she was a good candidate for a DIEP Flap which is a type of reconstruction that uses your own tissue to create a new breast after a mastectomy. They used Robyn’s abdominal tissue to create new breasts, which took around 9 hours as it is such an intricate surgery.

    The New Normal:

    You look at those around you who don’t have cancer and just want to feel ‘normal’ again, as you perceive them to be. But you soon realise this is your new normal and that life can’t go back to how it was before – you were given a warning, take heed of it and develop the skills to reduce stress, practice mindfulness, change your diet, set boundaries and so on. It does take daily practice though.”

    “I have only recently completed treatment, so I am still adjusting to what life looks like outside of daily treatments and doctor’s visits, but one thing it has definitely done is made me slow down and focus on today. Being diagnosed with cancer opens your eyes to what is important in life – prioritising time spent with family and friends, taking the time to listen to the sound of the waves crashing, the wind blowing through the trees, the sunsets and the moon rising – life is about the simple things we so easily take for granted,” she says. More

  • in

    8 luxurious hotels in Saudi Arabia to book on your next visit

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    16 hours ago

    The Kingdom has now transformed into a key tourism hotspot for many.
    With its well-preserved ruins and sophisticated new retreats, this country has become a magnet for travellers from around the world.
    So, for your next trip to Saudi Arabia, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to the luxurious properties to book.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @habitasalula More

  • in

    The Emirates Woman editor-approved guide to all the hotspots in D3

    Bringing you all the best hotspots in Dubai, our editor-approved guide to another bustling hotspot is back. This time featuring Dubai Design District (D3).
    As the region’s hub for design, fashion and culture, this community inspires talented individuals to constantly think outside the box.
    From all the luxe eateries to enticing shopping avenues, Emirates Woman has curated a guide for where you need to go on your next visit.
    Restaurants & Cafés
    Café Otaku

    Offering authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Dubai Design District, Otaku embodied the philosophy of home throughout its layout. From a welcoming entrance to modern aesthetics, the café celebrates the minimal elements throughout the experience. Known for their speciality coffee and delicious Japanese pancakes, the café reflects the overarching simplicity of Japanese design. It’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.
    Home Bakery Kitchen

    Known for its wide range of irresistible desserts and seasonal savoury dishes, Home Bakery continues to have an undisputed reputation for authentic offerings. From their delicious chewy melts to fresh chocolate fondants, there’s more than enough on the menu to relish, whether you dine with your friends or family. Looking to continuously experiment with new flavours, the list on the menu keeps growing. Located in building 7, it’s open daily from 7:30am to 12am.
    For more information visit homebakery.ae
    The Lighthouse

    This restaurant and concept store sits at the intersection of food, creativity and design. With a menu focusing on Mediterranean-inspired delights, guests can choose from a myriad of dishes prepared with fresh seasonal produce. By incorporating the principles of fresh eating, each dish is prepared with nothing but the best ingredients. Adding to the venue’s charm is a minimal shop that boasts a handpicked selection of gifting merchandise including glassware, travel and lifestyle accessories by a pool of unique designers. Located in building 6, it’s open daily 8am to 4pm and Sunday to Wednesday 6pm to 9:45pm, Thursday and Friday 6pm to 10:45pm and Saturday 6pm to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit thelighthouse.ae
    Joe & the Juice
    With the flagship store found in d3, this popular Danish concept emanates a vibrant, uplifting environment where guests can savour their mouthwatering sandwiches and juices. For bites, Joe & The Juice serve up salad bowls, breakfast bowls, and sandwiches including spicy tuna and Joe’s Club – a signature chicken, avocado and vegan pesto delight. Vegans, try the green bowl and avocado sandwich. With an in-store retail section, visitors can purchase various cups, coffee capsule sand more.
    For more information visit joejuice.com
    Akiba Dori

    Adding to Dubai’s unique dining scene, the trendy restaurant has a range of classics inspired by Tokyo. From Neapolitan pizza to a licensed food hall-style indoor alleyway, the options are endless in this unique haven. With hints of the anime culture of Akihabara in Tokyo infused there’s more than enough for everyone who visits. Located in building 8, it’s open daily from 12pm onwards.
    For more information visit akibadori.com
    One Life Café & Kitchen

    With an all-in-one combined co-working space, catering company, coffee roaster and restaurant, this quality-driven café offers nutrient-dense meals to all its visitors. With plenty of options to suit your nights, the kitchen ensures fresh and natural ingredients are always its core feature. From freelancers to wanderers, the place is open to all. Located in building 5, it’s open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit onelifedxb.com
    The Espresso Lab

    Leaving no bean unturned, this coffee haven lets guests embark refreshing journey. With a deep-rooted culture of innovation, the café continues to source, prep and serve the very best characteristics of each variety. From aromatic flavours to bringing the technical knowledge of the baristas to the table, there’s an intense drive for perfection that runs deep in the concept’s DNA.
    For more information visit theespressolab.shop
    The Host

    This one-of-a-kind concept is a luxe space bringing world-class food, deserts and service caterings for small intimate gatherings or large formal events. With a chic minimal aesthetic, this haven truly brings something different to the market, with the purpose of celebrating special moments together. Located in building 8, it’s open from Thursday to Saturday 9am to 11pm and Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 10pm.
    Shops
    Mrs. Keepa

    Designed to bring out a woman’s edgy side, each piece is an avant-garde modern interpretation of previous eras’ glamour. Without following seasonal trends, each eclectic silhouette embodies a vintage spirit, making its mark in the fashion industry. By incorporating sustainable elements, the brand is mindful of the environment and any ethical practices. Located in building 6, it’s open daily from 10am to 7pm, except on Friday.
    For more information visit mrskeepa.com
    Kristina Fidelskaya

    The luxurious ready-to-wear fashion label is known for its intricate leather-cut pieces, bold silhouettes are structured suits. Presenting pieces that can seamlessly be worn from day to night, the brand has all the pieces that best fit your new season wardrobe. Both the office and showroom are situated in building 7 and it’s open daily from 9am to 5pm except on Friday and Saturday.
    For more information visit kristinafidelskaya.com
    Maison Yeya

    From haute couture to delicately embroidered bridal pieces, this Egyptian label is one of the most prominent brands in the industry. With pieces designed for any special occasion, visitors can shop for pieces that cater to each and every clientele. Known for their functional yet powerful designs, each piece strives to embody the qualities of a modern independent woman. With its headquarters located in D3, it’s open daily from 10am to 6pm, except on Friday.
    For more information visit maisonyeya.com
    Maison Des Fleurs

    Born to express your love for any special occasion, this bespoke floral boutique has a wide range of bouquets under one roof. From fresh flowers to luxe arrangements, visitors can choose one that best suits their needs. Whether a corporate occasion or a set up for an event, this space offers the best in floristry, all under one roof. Located in building 1, it’s open daily from 10am to 10pm.
    For more information visit maisondesfleurs.com
    Fitness
    The Warehouse Gym

    To ensure your fitness regime is on track, Warehouse Gym offers a wide range of facilities for you to stay motivated no matter what time of the day you visit. From bodybuilding to a CrossFit area, guests can enjoy the services to reach their fitness goals. There’s even a juice bar for visitors to refresh themselves after a class or workout session. Located in building 8, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 6am to 10pm and Friday to Saturday 7am to 5pm.
    For more information visit whgym.com
    Design School
    Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI)

    For an immersive experience, this design university offers students the opportunity to learn and grow in an innovative environment. From product design to fashion design, this research-based learning mechanism develops pioneers who solve complex problems with a future-oriented mindset. To inspire the next generation of learners, the university has also tied up with international institutions including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Parsons School of Design.
    For more information visit didi.ac.ae
    To know more about this artistic community, which is on a mission to enhance Dubai’s culture of creativity visit dubaidesigndistrict.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @d3dubai More

  • in

    Get a fresh bouquet of flowers delivered in 60 minutes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Have a last-minute request for a bouquet to gift to your loved ones? Flowers.ae promises a world of petal perfection with its prompt delivery services in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
    From birthday flowers to anniversary flowers, there’s plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for classic roses, stunning sunflowers, or elegant lilies, you’re spoiled for choice
    The talented team of experts ensure high-quality flowers are accessible to everyone, with customer satisfaction as top priority.
    Their dedication to quality, personalisation, customer service, convenience, and innovation has propelled them to the forefront of the industry. For those who need a personal touch, bespoke arrangements can be created according to each preference with a heartfelt message to complement the arrangement.
    The user-friendly website lets you browse our collection of breathtaking bouquets and flower arrangements at your leisure, with the option to order and schedule a flower delivery in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE for a specific date and time along with now providing the option for 60-minute delivery services. For more information visit flowers.ae
    The editor-approved picks:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

  • in

    Marina Home: Where fusion meets exotic elegance in the realm of decor

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    Originating in the heart of Dubai, Marina Home has etched its name into the households of the nations it serves, becoming synonymous with innovation and boundless creativity.
    Each Marina Home showroom, strategically located in major malls and premium high-street destinations, is a captivating realm of discovery and exploration. It’s a place where juxtaposition takes centre stage – urban meets the exotic.
    At the heart of Marina Home’s ethos lies the spirit of adventure. Their artistry is evident in the selection of contrasting designs that defy convention, crafting trends that ignite the spark of creativity in their patrons.
    Step into the world of the latest season’s offerings – a collection that blends genres and styles, creating aspirational settings within your home.
    Corden Bed

    Consider this as  a king-sized haven to snooze away in. The design of the bed will further intrigue you with a headboard subtly curved and upholstered in velvety quilted fabric in a rich, dark green hue. It’s a modern creation with a gentle nod to bygone eras, a bed that harmonizes beautifully with the opulence of rich woods like mahogany and mango, and complements them with jewel tones.
    Meppadi Dining Table + Houdel Dining Chair

    The Meppadi Dining Table, meticulously hand-crafted, embraces a blend of tropical inspiration and rustic European charm, comfortably accommodating eight to ten guests.  Accompany it with the Houdel Dining Chair for a hint of retro flair. Adorned in beige artificial leather and supported by iron legs, this chair finds its perfect match around this state-of-the-art table.
    Onorato Sectional Sofa + Brigid A Coffee Table

    The Onorato Sectional Sofa, with its sinuous curves reminiscent of pebbles shaped by the sea, is an ideal choice for interiors inspired by coastal living. Last but not least, there’s the Brigid A Coffee Table, a true embodiment of rustic-yet-modern. Its chunky form and scalloped edges make a bold statement. Crowned with a white marble top and supported by a sturdy dark oak wood base, this piece will effortlessly amalgamate with a spectrum of styles.
    The latest collection from Marina Home is now available in all their markets, spanning the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Pakistan, and Egypt, both in their physical stores and through their online platform. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Marina Home  More

  • in

    Renowned author Roxie Nafousi on the unwavering power of manifestation

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Roxie Nafousi, Author of MANIFEST – 7 Steps to Living your Best Life shares how you can elevate your life through the power of manifestation.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    I always start my day by repeating a positive affirmation as soon as I wake up, I love statements such as “I am excited for the day ahead” or “I am ready to receive abundance”. Then I go and make my morning coffee, take my supplements, and if my son is still asleep then I’ll do a 30-minute workout in my living room.
    What inspired you to write the book manifest – 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life?
    Manifesting has changed my life beyond recognition. It bought me out of a very dark place in my life and turned everything around. I just knew it was part of my life’s mission, and purpose, to teach it to as many people as I could.
    Your book sheds light upon on the power of manifestation – can you expand on this?
    Manifesting is using the power of your mind to change your reality and it’s a self-development practice to live by. I think that a lot of people don’t understanding manifesting, or they are cynical to it because there are so many misconceptions around it. This book explains what manifesting really is, and how to actually make it work, in seven simple steps. It’s helped hundreds of thousands of people around the world and I hope it will continue to help even more!
    As a self-development coach what practices can everyone implement in their daily lives to reduce anxiety.
    There are lots of simple practices that can help, such as: meditation, grounding, being out in nature, journaling, yin yoga, talking to others, breath-work.

    In your book you discuss changing low-vibe emotions to high-vibe ones – can you elaborate on this?
    Low vibe emotions are those such as fear, anger, envy, guilt. These emotions are all normal to experience, but if we don’t process them or let them out, then they hold us back and stop us from attracting abundance into our lives. In my book there are many techniques that I share to help people to transform these emotions and turn them into high vibe emotions such as gratitude, love, peace, inspiration. These include language shifts you can make, how to change your perspectives and how to cultivate gratitude in an effective way. I even have a whole section dedicated to turning a low-vibe emotion to a positive one, it’s step 6 “turn envy into inspiration”.
    Many of us are processing healing of old wounds – what positive activities can help support the process?
    I am a really big advocate of seeking professional help to safely address the deep wounds that are still impacting our current reality. There are so many therapists, counsellors and all types of different healers who can support this journey. I think it is such a valuable investment.
    Your readers can document their own journey throughout the pages – can you explain why this was important?
    I wanted to create a book that the reader could use pro-actively, so I have lots of exercises within the book for people to fill out. People who listen to the audiobook often get the physical copy too so they can do this, which I think really helps the process of self-help.
    What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
    There is so much I would tell myself. I wish I could tell my younger self that I was enough as I was, that everything was going to turn out for the best and that I should never be afraid to be myself!
    What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
    I have faced many challenges during my life, and I never knew what it was to be happy until the last few years. I had no confidence or feelings of self-worth at all, and so I am truly grateful every day for the power of manifesting and how it has given me a life I could only have dreamed of, and a sense of inner peace that I truly never thought was possible.
    How important is the gratitude practice when it comes to channeling the power of manifestation?
    Step 5 of my 7 steps to manifesting is “Embrace Gratitude”. In this step, I explain that the manifesting sweet spot is ‘knowing what you want, whilst being entirely grateful for all that you already have’. When we sink into the feeling of appreciation, we attract more abundance to us. My mum used to say to me in Arabic, ‘for everything thanks you give, you get 1000 in return.’ She was right!
    This is ‘The Fearlessness Issue’ – how do you overcome your fears?
    I follow my second step of manifesting from my book, Step 2: Remove Fear & Doubt! This is the most important step of the whole manifesting process and the most significant. When we can overcome our fears, we unlock our limitless potential and become unstoppable.
    October – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet  – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied Images: Photographer of standing image: Alex Hutch & Photographer of sitting image: Stella Kim More