Raphael Stevens

More stories

  • 163 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    Meet Ayesha Al Mansoori, the first Emirati falconer to dominate this native sport

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    As one of the first females in the sport of falconry, Emirati falconer Ayesha Al Mansoori takes us through her journey of courage, consistency and commitment to the craft.
    What does the first 30 minutes of your day look like?
    I start my day with prayer, then I go directly to the falconry room to check on them. After that, I prepare breakfast and take my daughter Osha to school.
    What inspired you to pursue this unique path of becoming the first female Emirati falconer?
    My father, Matar Al Mansouri, is my inspiration and he is the one who inspired me to pursue this sport, it is inevitably in our blood.
    What challenges have you overcome while pursuing falconry?
    There are many challenges, but the joy is in overcoming these challenges, passing them with all strength, and continuing on the path. I started my journey as one of the only women in the field and because of the challenges I faced in my path, I could remove the roadblocks from the ones who came after me.

    Falconry requires a deep connection between you and the birds. Can you expand on this and the training process?
    A falconer must have astrong relationship with the falcon, it is, after all, an art of mutual trust. It is important to know your falcon, down to the soul. In order to train them you need to boost their confidence in you and develop a sense of security. You are eventually going on a hunt with the same bird, so the groundwork must be strong.
    What advice do you have for other young women who may aspire to follow in your footsteps and become falconers?
    Firstly, every young woman who wants to engage in the art of falconry or learn the sport must choose an appropriate falconer with sufficient experience in this sport. Secondly,give it enough time and effort to learn. Thirdly, this sport must be learned and carried on because it is a part of our ancestry and culture (it is quite literally a part of our national emblem). It also teaches us a lot about our history and forefathers, including our beloved founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may God rest his soul).

    How do you balance preserving traditional Emirati falconry techniques while also adapt ing to modern practices?
    Currently, new equipment and modern methods have been added to train our falcons, but every time I am starting with a new falcon, I resort back to what I learned from my father because it is the correct way to begin. After which, modern technologies such as tools and foods can be introduced. The sport of falconry teaches you patience, and resilience and also helps you create a bond with nature’s other beings. Learning the art and attaching yourself to a bird, whom you are responsible for, unlocks a whole new level of empathy.
    How do you envision the future of falconry in the UAE and its role in preserving Emirati heritage?
    Since this sport is an interest of our wise leadership, it must be developed and preserved. There should be falconry festivals related to this sport and exhibitions displaying all kinds of falconry supplies and merchandise.
    This is The Fearlessness Issue – what does it mean to be fearless?
    To me, being fearless means finding courage within yourself to do even the unthinkable. Without courage, I wouldn’t be able to learn how to deal with a majestic bird like a falcon, let alone train with it and master the art of working and hunting with it every day.
    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 More

  • 100 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    Summer Adventure Awaits: Nurturing Bone Health With MenaCal.7™

    In the tapestry of a woman’s life, strong bones are the threads that uphold vitality and empower adventures. MenaCal.7™ emerges as a beacon, urging women to invest in their bone health from the early years, an act of self-love that paves the way for a life of boundless possibilities. As summer beckons, it’s time to embrace the warmth and embark on adventures, supported by the strength that MenaCal.7™ brings.

    Summer Adventures Await 

    With the arrival of summer, the call for adventure grows stronger. Hiking through scenic trails, exploring new destinations, or revelling in the joys of outdoor yoga – all these experiences are enhanced when supported by strong, flexible bones. MenaCal.7™ stands as your partner, ensuring your bones are up for every exhilarating challenge the season brings.

    Self-Love: Nourishing Your Foundation 

    Caring for your bones is an act of self-love, a promise to your body that it will carry you through a lifetime of experiences. MenaCal.7™ embodies this self-care, infusing your bones with the nutrients they need to face the world with strength and grace. It’s a reminder that taking care of yourself is a beautiful, powerful act.

    READ MORE: Empower Your Journey: Unveiling The Secret To Strong Bones With MenaCal.7™

    Investing in Your Future Self 

    The early years are the foundation of a robust future. MenaCal.7™, with its dynamic blend of calcium, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2 (MK-7), helps bones grow strong and resilient. By investing in bone health early on, you gift yourself the promise of an active, adventurous life.

    MenaCal.7™ is more than a supplement; it’s a commitment to your future self. By nurturing bone health early on, you set the stage for a life of vibrant adventures and self-love. As the summer sun warms your spirit, let MenaCal.7™ be the foundation that supports every step of your journey.  More

  • 188 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    Emirati Women who did it first: From an aircraft engineer to a race car driver

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    Three pioneering Emirati women from three daring professions discuss breaking the glass ceiling with Emirates Woman and carving out their own path.
    Nayla Al Baloushi – FIRST EMIRATI WOMAN TO SUMMIT MOUNT EVEREST

    Being the first in your field, how did you conquer the fear of venturing into something new?
    I had faith in the Almighty and believed that what was meant to be, will be. So, I took all the safety procedures and chose to go on an adventure of a lifetime. Turns out, I had the time of my life and explored things I couldn’t have imagined.
    What was the biggest challenge you overcame in this journey?
    The extreme cold weather and the lack of oxygen due to the high altitude – this is something I couldn’t have prepared for, as I came from a sea level environment.
    This is The Fearlessness Issue – what does it mean to be fearless?
    I wouldn’t say I am entirely fearless, but I’m courageous enough to attempt new challenges with a steady plan of action and, of course, professional help.
    Dr Eng Suaad Alshamsi – FIRST UAE FEMALE AIRCRAFT ENGINEER

    Being the first in your field, how did you conquer the fear of venturing into something new?
    With passion and belief in your abilities, you are able to enter any field and succeed in it – the most important thing is to continue. The first step is scary, but once you pass it, everything after that is achievable. The important thing is that you must believe that failure is just as important a lesson to learn on your path to success, do not stop it, but endure it.
    What was the biggest challenge you overcame in this journey?
    The biggest challenge is breaking the barriers and dismantling the stereotype that women only belong at home. I wanted to send a message that women can be mothers, life partners, and can also be successful in different fields – such as aviation and confirm their presence in all forums.
    This is The Fearlessness Issue – what does it mean to be fearless?
    To be passionate about your dream and believe in your abilities, despite the negative views that may cause a hindrance in your way or prevent you from reaching your goal. You must continue – despite the hardships and despite what anyone says.
    Amna Al Qubaisi – FIRST FEMALE EMIRATI MOTORSPORTS RACING DRIVER

    Being the first in your field, how did you conquer the fear of venturing into something new?
    I’ve always wanted to try and do something different from a young age. I was very enthusiastic and still on the path of finding my new challenge that exhilarates me.
    What was the biggest challenge you overcame in this journey?
    Every day I face a new hurdle in this sport, especially, when it comes to being the only Middle Eastern girl on the grid. I always had to prove myself, as I was often pushed off the track when I reached certain positions, because it wasn’t the norm to see women overtaking, let alone winning the race.
    This is The Fearlessness Issue – what does it mean to be fearless?
    To be fearless is to have a lion’s heart. To be brave and never back down when things get tough. You keep persisting and believing that you are capable of winning and that is how you attain a winner’s mindset.
    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 More

  • 88 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    October’s – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    3 hours ago

    Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Sandra ChidiacFashion Editor: Camille MacawiliMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska at MMGCover Star: Mona Bin KalliStyling with thanks to Epiphany
    One of our most inspiring issues to date, we are privileged to have real relationships where incredible women can show up for us and discuss facing their fears and doing it anyway.
    Having spoken to so many in this issue, it is for many not the absence of fear in their lives that has driven them forward but the courage to face this and still forge ahead. Big or small, overcoming fear is what will set you on the path to success. Everything we want lies beyond the feelings we think we cannot face, and the things we think we cannot do.
    For our cover we are very proud to have partnered with Chaumet and Mona Bin Kalli, someone who has fearlessness in her DNA. We discuss doing life on your on terms in Strength & Beauty.
    We also have exclusive interviews with Christopher Esber who shares what it takes to seize opportunities fearlessly, creating pieces that push boundaries and delivering work you believe in, Cut to the Chase on. New York-based, globally renowned jeweller Jennifer Fisher discusses creating, scaling and having the fearlessness to start in The Baller and designer Tamara Ralph discusses being ready to take on a challenge and having the fearlessness to build again in A Serious Comeback.
    Yann Moujawaz Martini, Co-Founder – Juana Skin, also shares what it takes to build a brand from scratch, believe in your dream and push the boundaries of convention in the beauty industry in A Fearless Approach, Roxie Nafousi, Author of MANIFEST – 7 Steps to Living your Best Life, shares how you can elevate your life through the power of manifestation in transform and Emirati falconer Ayesha Al Mansoori takes us through her journey of courage, consistency and commitment to the craft in The Highflyer.

    This year also sees the return of the EMIRATES WOMAN – Woman of the Year Awards. This event returns this year to shine a light on those achieving outstanding achievements in their industries and those living with the values we align ourselves with of integrity, authenticity, excellence, and grit. We champion these incredible women in The Nominees.
    The top picks

    We are so proud to be in the company of such incredible, fearless and inspiring women. Thank you for being part of the EW family.
    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 More

  • 113 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    8 Breast Cancer Myths You NEED To Stop Believing

    Ah, October… The time of year when almost every tree is swathed in pink and the term “breast cancer” is in your timeline more often than a Kardashian. And while awareness is incredibly important – regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are key to combating cancer – a flurry of information also creates room for confusion.

    In the world of science, it can take years of research and studies on large numbers of people to get a clear picture of what can and can’t increase or decrease your risk. That’s why you need to be extra careful where you get your information from. Here, we bust eight common myths and uncover the truth.

    Myth#1: Younger women are becoming more and more susceptible.

    Truth: The older you get, the more at risk you are for any cancer – not the other way round, says Dr Melissa Wallace, head of research at the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). “The majority of breast cancer patients in South Africa and abroad have typically been and still are women between the ages of 50 and 70 years,” says Dr Justus Apffelstaedt, a specialist surgeon with a particular interest in breast, thyroid and parathyroid health management. So why older women? It’s not entirely clear, but research has shown that it may be a result of the accumulation of age-associated changes in a biochemical process that helps control genes.

    Myth#2: Chemotherapy is the MVP of breast cancer treatments.

    Truth: “The most effective way to treat breast cancer is with a multi-disciplinary approach, combining a number of treatment options that include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal and biological agents,” says Apffelstaedt. The right treatment for you will depend on the type and stage of cancer and how far it has spread. “Treatment can consist of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or biological or targeted therapies, which are new drugs that work differently to chemotherapy. A patient may have one of these treatments or a combination,” says Wallace.

    Myth#3: If you’re a smoker, you’re automatically at risk for breast cancer.

    Truth: Hate to break it to ya, but if you’re smoking, you’re at risk for around says Wallace. But that’s not the end of the story. “Many women will not necessarily increase the risk of getting breast cancer by smoking, but there is a subset of women with a specific genetic make-up that prevents them from detoxifying cancer-causing chemicals in cigarette smoke efficiently,” says Apffelstaedt. Those women do indeed have an increased risk of breast cancer when smoking. Places like 3×4 Clinics and DNAlysis can help you find out if you’re among them– but quitting is still a better option.

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

    Myth#4: Mammograms are painful.

    Truth: It shouldn’t be painful, but a little discomfort is normal. Plus, knowing the state of your boobies should for sure outweigh any temporary unease.

    Myth#5: Mammograms are not a big deal in breast cancer treatment.

    Truth: Not all mammograms are created equal. When it comes to screening for BC, you want the best tech available, including an image produced by a mammogram specialist radiographer.

    “High-quality breast imaging will detect about 95 percent of all breast cancers. In such centres, women whose breast cancer is detected at screening will have the same survival chances as women without breast cancer,” says Apffelstaedt.

    Myth#6: It doesn’t make a difference where you’re treated.

    Truth: “There can be a variation across facilities and provinces in terms of waiting periods for diagnosis and then waiting periods for accessing treatment,” says Wallace. The longer the waiting period, the worse the prognosis, since early treatment and detection are key. “In certain parts of the country, patients are experiencing unacceptable waiting periods to access treatment. CANSA is working hard to do what we can to address this at a national level,” she says. If you’re among those waiting, contact CANSA on advocacy@cansa.org.za.

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

    Myth #7: It’s best to remove the whole breast when you have breast cancer.

    Truth: A tumour in the breast will not kill you. What will? The spread of cancer to the brain and lungs, says Apffelstaedt, Wallace agrees. “Whether or not the breast will be removed is entirely dependent on the type of breast cancer, the stage and how far it’s spread.” Plus, says Apffelstaedt, breast cancer often spreads to other areas early in the course of the disease, so a mastectomy won’t guarantee a better survival rate than breast-conserving therapy.

    Myth #8: You’re more likely to get breast cancer after a breast augmentation.

    Truth: “It may be hard for the doctor to see certain parts of your breast,” says Wallace. “The X-rays used in mammograms cannot go through silicone or saline implants well enough to show the breast tissue under them. This means that part of the breast tissue can be hard to see on a mammogram.” But studies show that women who undergo breast augmentation surgery and have breast implants are no more likely to develop breast cancer than women who don’t, says Apffelstaedt. More

  • 163 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    7 of the best Padel courts in Dubai to upgrade your fitness routine

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    13 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    If there’s one sport that has grown in popularity over the years, it’s padel Tennis.
    While there’s no denying that the sport is gaining momentum in the region, a few people what the game is actually about. Overall, the game is played with solid racquets and a depressurized tennis ball.
    Now, there are several clubs and venues in Dubai that offer padel tennis facilities for players to enjoy. These clubs typically provide well-maintained padel courts, equipment rental, and coaching services.
    If you’re thinking of giving this new buzzword in the sporting community a shot, we’re here to help.
    To get back into the fitness game, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate padel guide of where to book your next friendly match.

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

  • 138 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    5 Heart Disease Risk Factors Every Woman Needs To Know About

    September is Heart Awareness Month. Heart disease and strokes are the second highest cause of death in South Africa (only HIV can beat this killer!), so this is definitely something we can’t brush off. A healthy heart literally is a matter of life and death. While we’re all aware that to have a healthy heart, we need to eat well, exercise and avoid a few things, things can get a bit more complicated than that. Here, the heart disease risk factors you need to be aware of and what you should be doing to prevent it…

    Meet The Expert: Dr Annarie van Rensburg is a Specialist Cardiologist at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital in Sunningdale, Blouberg

    Heart health remains a priority for healthcare providers and an epidemic in South Africa. According to the SA Heart and Stroke Foundation, 30% of the population has some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD). And while we often think of heart disease as something that affects only the elderly, that’s no longer the case. Per the SA Heart and Stroke Foundation, more than half of deaths among people under the age of 65 are attributed to heart disease. A third of people are hypertensive, too.

    READ MORE: 4 Simple And Easy Ways To Keep Your Heart Healthy

    “The heart disease risk factors for women are similar to those of men,” Van Rensburg begins. But when it comes to prevention, she can’t underline enough the importance of looking after your body and your health. Here’s what you need to know…

    Risk Factor 1: Smoking

    Smoking is a BIG risk factor when it comes to heart health. We already know this, but here’s a reminder that you are jeopardising your own life every time you light up. “Women who smoke 20 cigarettes a day have six times increased risk of having a heart attack, while with men the risk is three times higher.” So it’s even riskier for us girls. Our advice: quit now, while you’re ahead.

    The why: every time you light up, the chemicals inside cigarettes clog the blood and arteries inside your heart. Think vaping is A-OK? Think again. A 2020 review found that vaping stiffens the arteries and creates higher blood pressure, which puts undue stress on the heart. Toss that vape.

    READ MORE: Why You Should Check For High Blood Pressure, Even If You Think You’re Fine

    Risk Factor 2: Diabetes

    If you suffer from diabetes, there’s a chance that your heart may be at risk. If it’s your lifestyle choices that have led to diabetes, such as a sedentary lifestyle, then here’s the wake-up call: it’s time to get active! “Having diabetes is also associated with a greater risk of developing heart disease in women than in men,” says Van Rensburg.

    The why? Per the Centers for Disease Control, “high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart.” Scary stuff.

    READ MORE: 10 Best Low-Sugar Fruits That Won’t Mess With Your Blood Sugar

    Risk Factor 3: High Cholesterol

    High cholesterol can be genetic, but it’s typically associated with obesity. Again, a sedentary lifestyle can be your biggest enemy. A healthy diet and keeping active are not only necessary for you to look your best, they’re also the doctor’s recommended remedy for preventing heart disease.

    The why? When there’s too much cholesterol in the blood, they form plaque deposits on the artery walls of your heart. This could cause an artery to become blocked or the plaque could even rupture.

    READ MORE: 9 Foods That Can Actually Lower Cholesterol Naturally

    Risk Factor 4: Hypertension

    High blood pressure is known as a silent killer because there are often no symptoms. Regular blood pressure check-ups are advisable and, again, a healthy diet is key. Read: fresh fruit and veg, and cut back on processed food high in salt, sugar and oil.

    The why? Having hypertension causes your heart to work harder to fulfil its tasks, pumping blood throughout your body to keep you going. And leaving your high blood pressure unchecked means you’re creating a situation where your heart could cop out, leading to heart disease.

    Risk Factor 5: Advancing Age

    “The risk of developing heart disease increases dramatically once a woman is post-menopausal,” says Rensburg. “If there is a family history of premature coronary artery disease in family members below the age of 55 (men) or (65) women, or a family history of high cholesterol, the risk is also significantly increased.”

    The why? Over time, our hearts become stiffer with age, leading to high blood pressure, which puts stress on the heart.

    While we can’t reverse the ageing process, we can take steps to age healthily, which includes every doctor’s order: eating well and exercising regularly.

    What Should All Women Do To Lower The Risk Of Heart Disease?

    “Lead a healthy lifestyle,” Van Rensburg stresses again. This includes getting in a sweat session at least five times a week. “Maintain a healthy body weight,” she continues, “a BMI between 19 and 25.” Smoking is a big no-no. Just don’t do it – it’s not worth risking your heart. “Have your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar checked regularly,” Van Rensburg concludes. The intervals at which this should be checked increase as you age, but it is necessary for everyone. “Everyone should have it checked, then discuss with their doctor what the recommended treatment is or when the next visit should be scheduled.” More

  • 188 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    Founder of supplement brand Cymbiotika on filling the gaps in our modern day food supply

    Emirates Man

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Chervin Jafarieh, Founder and Chief Operating Officer at game-changing supplement brand Cymbiotika, discusses what it take to do things differently and scaling a brand with a qualitarian mindset
    What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine?
    I wake up and before getting out of bed I spend five minutes or more reflecting on my dreams. Dreams provide us an opportunity to look within the veil of our subconscious and it’s just as important to understand those deep layers within us. I hydrate with 30 oz of spring water and one tablet of Cymbiotika’s Molecular Hydrogen dissolved into the water. Next I make my way outside, I place my bare feet directly on the earth and allow the rising sun rays to hit my face and chest, activating the production of melatonin in my body, and turning on my immune system. I take 10 minutes to breathe deeply into my body and for and how I want to approach my day. I like to listen to 432 Hertz music throughout the house while taking a cold shower.
    How did you know it was the right time to launch Cymbiotika and what made you finally take the leap of faith?
    I have had a connection to the supplement industry since I was a child through one of my mentors, and my approach to conscious living and caring for my health and the health of others is a major part of my lifestyle and passion. I did various other things for business prior and then one day my father got sick, and everything changed. I knew it was time to fully surrender to my true mission and take my passions and purpose to the world. The supplement industry is saturated with marketing companies, brands that lack the intention to provide substantial solutions for people searching for help, I knew that we could create something revolutionary.

    Chervin Jafarieh, Fonder and COO of Cymbiotika
    What were the key pillars the DNA Cymbiotika was founded on from the outset and have these evolved since you launched?
    Highest level of sourcing raw materials with purity being most important. Education first – encouraging customers to learn about their body and what our products do. Trailblazingnew formulas with advanced scientific data supporting efficacy. Never settling with what the industry standard currently is and pushing to go above and beyond. Transparency to customers with our formulas.
    You are a scientist. How much development does it take to launch a new product?
    Developing products is a tedious and timely process, a labour of love. Some products have taken several years to develop from their time of inception. Learning how specific compounds potentiate each other was criticalto our product development endeavours.
    How do you educate clients on the ‘right’ supplements for them and which supplements would you suggest for everyone?
    Cymbiotika takes a specific and broad approach in supplementation. A great place to begin is with our product set that fills the nutritional gaps missing from our modern day food supply. Covering basic nutritional needs is paramount before beginning with our advanced condition specific formulations. All formulas come with detailed usage directions and other key points thatencourage the best results.
    What are your daily non-negotiables and which supplement would you include in that?
    Hydration is a daily non-negotiable for me and a foundation for thriving health. I replenish my hydration by combining spring water with Cymbiotika’s Molecular Hydrogen. tablet. I do this twice a day. My other non-negotiable supplements are Cymbiotika’s B12+, Vitamin C, and our Vitamin D3/ K2 + CoQ10. This is a powerful combination that keeps me feeling great and energized throughout my day.
    Do you feel more drawn to the creative or the business side of your brand and how have you grown the team to support this?
    My role in Cymbiotika is primarily the creative development of products and the brand culture. My partner and CEO has built and established one of the most dynamic teams to perfectly complement and support this vision. The freedom I have to focus on the artistic vision is given to me because of the stability my team creates on the business side of things.

    Cymbiotika supplements
    You have clients the globe over – which products drive sales consistently?
    Our top products are our Complex form of Vitamin B12+, Vitamin D3/K2 +CoQ10, Vitamin C, and our Molecular Hydrogen Tablets.
    What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
    We are always challenging the status quo of the supplement industry standard which puts extreme pressure on our R&D team to innovate and grow beyond anything that has existed previously. This process takes more time and costs more money. Long hours, trust, patience and a great team are the pillarsto our success.
    You have recently launched a Middle Eastern entity — why is this market so important for Cymbiotika?
    There is a resurgence of health and wellness in the Middle East. Cymbiotika aligns with this movement. We want to be part of the unfolding in the Middle East, it feels like destiny for us.
    How do you scale without compromising on quality?
    Having a well thought out plan from the jumpstart is key with keeping the brand integrity. Strong communication with our raw material suppliers, building a sophisticated team that can adapt to supply chain constraints, and building diverse relationships with trusted sources in case of shortages helps us scale without compromising quality.
    What advice would you give to your younger self starting out?
    You don’t have to do everything all at once.
    Have you had any mentors to date and if so, what advice did they impart?
    My father. He taught me how to be pragmatic, not sure if I listened, but either way, it helped me function during chaotic times.
    Emirates Man The Fall/Winter Issue – Download Now
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More