Raphael Stevens

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    in lifestyle and culture

    The Victoria Beckham Netflix series is set to release in 2025, here are all the details

    Life

    June 17, 2025

    For decades, Victoria Beckham has been a fixture in the global spotlight. First known as Posh Spice in the record-breaking girl group Spice Girls, she later became one-half of pop culture’s most iconic power couples alongside football legend David Beckham.
    Today, she has reinvented herself as the driving force behind a growing fashion and beauty empire. This fall, Netflix will showcase this remarkable evolution in a highly anticipated documentary series focused entirely on Beckham’s journey from pop star to business mogul.
    The streaming giant announced the project on August 21, 2024, positioning it as an intimate portrait of Beckham’s personal and professional transformation. The series comes on the heels of her scene-stealing appearance in last year’s Beckham documentary about her husband, where her dry wit and candid revelations won over audiences worldwide. That viral moment where she admitted to being driven to school in a Rolls-Royce offered just a glimpse of the charm and authenticity she brings to the screen.

    This new documentary promises to go much deeper, with Netflix granting viewers unprecedented access to Beckham’s world. The series will follow her as she navigates the daily challenges of running her fashion label, expanding her beauty ventures, and maintaining her family life. It’s a rare opportunity to see the woman behind the carefully curated public image – the hardworking businesswoman, the devoted mother, and the self-aware celebrity who has learned to laugh at herself along the way.
    The timing of the documentary couldn’t be more strategic. After years of operating at a loss, Victoria Beckham Holdings Ltd. has finally turned a corner, with revenue growing by more than 50% in 2023. The company has significantly reduced its operating losses, bringing them down to £2.9 million, and appears poised to reach profitability soon. This financial turnaround reflects Beckham’s growing credibility in the competitive world of luxury fashion, where independent labels often struggle to survive.

    Beyond fashion, Victoria Beckham has successfully expanded into beauty with her critically acclaimed fragrance line and skincare collection. Earlier this year, she marked another milestone by presenting her resort collection in person for the first time, hosting an exclusive trunk show in New York for American Express Centurion members. These business achievements demonstrate her commitment to building a lasting brand rather than simply cashing in on her celebrity status.
    What makes this documentary particularly compelling is its focus on Victoria Beckham as an individual, rather than as part of a famous couple. While the Beckham series explored their shared journey, this project will spotlight Victoria Beckham’s personal story of reinvention. It will likely address the early skepticism she faced when entering the fashion world, the challenges of balancing business and family, and the discipline required to maintain relevance across multiple decades in the public eye.
    For Victoria Beckham, this documentary represents more than just another media project – it’s an opportunity to redefine her legacy. The series will undoubtedly showcase her sharp business acumen, but also reveal the humor and humanity that those closest to her have always known.

    As the premiere date approaches (anytime this year), anticipation continues to build. The documentary joins Netflix’s impressive roster of celebrity-focused content, following in the footsteps of successful series like The Super Models and Becoming. Given Beckham’s global appeal and the compelling narrative of her career evolution, the series has all the ingredients to become must-watch television when it debuts later this year.
    For fans who have followed Beckham’s journey from pop stardom to fashion prominence, this documentary offers the chance to finally see the complete picture. And for those who only know her as Posh Spice or David Beckham’s wife, it may well be the revelation of a multifaceted woman who has quietly built an empire while the world was watching.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pinterest More

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    in health and weelbeing

    Postpartum Depression: Why So Many Women Suffer in Silence?

    Bringing a baby into the world is often portrayed as a time of joy and excitement. There aren’t enough stories about sleepless nights, honing patience, taking care of yourself – all while guessing your newborn baby’s needs. For many South African mothers, the reality of motherhood is far more complex. According to the National Department of Health, postpartum depression affects an estimated 1 in 3 new mothers in South Africa, with many of them choosing to suffer in silence due to stigma, lack of awareness and limited access to support.

    “The first step in beating postpartum depression is actually realising that understanding the signs, causes and solutions for postpartum depression is crucial in ensuring that mothers receive the care they need.”

    READ MORE: How To Destress And Still Get Stuff Done

    The Lowdown On Postpartum Depression

    While temporary mood swings and exhaustion are common after childbirth, postpartum depression is more than just the ‘baby blues.’ “PPD is a serious mental health condition that can persist for months if left untreated,” says clinical psychologist Sandra Papoutsis, adding that symptoms include extreme sadness, anxiety, irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty bonding with the baby.

    Independent midwife and Vital Baby’s trusted advisor, Sister Londekile Ntsiba, shares that: “New mothers are expected to be overjoyed, but many struggle with overwhelming emotions, guilt and exhaustion. Unfortunately, the fear of being judged prevents many women from seeking the help they need.”

    READ MORE: Why Every Woman Deserves A Solo Escape

    Why Are Postpartum Depression Stats So High In SA?

    Several factors contribute to the high rates of postpartum depression in South Africa:

    Stigma and Cultural Expectations – In many communities, discussing mental health struggles is still taboo, making mothers hesitant to speak out.

    Lack of Support Systems – Many new mothers do not have the necessary emotional or practical support from partners, family, or healthcare providers.

    Economic Stress – Financial strain and unemployment can exacerbate feelings of helplessness and anxiety.

    Limited Access to Healthcare – Many women, especially in rural areas, lack access to mental health resources and professional support.

    READ MORE: For Overwhelmed Mothers, The Parent Hub Provides Much-Needed Relief

    Is It Treatable?

    The good news is that postpartum depression is treatable, and support is available. Encouraging open conversations about mental health and ensuring that mothers receive the right care can make a significant difference.

    Break the Silence – Encouraging mothers to talk about their feelings without fear of judgment can help normalise postpartum depression and reduce stigma.

    Seek Professional Help – Therapy, counselling, and, in some cases, medication can effectively treat PPD. Healthcare providers should routinely screen new mothers for signs of depression.

    Create Strong Support Networks – Family members, partners, and friends can provide invaluable support by helping with childcare, household tasks, and offering emotional reassurance.

    Self-Care Matters – New mothers should be encouraged to rest, eat well, and take time for themselves to promote overall well-being.

    READ MORE: 4 Prenatal Yoga Moves To Do At Home

    Where To Seek Help?

    For mothers struggling with postpartum depression, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Here are some essential support resources in South Africa:

    South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 24-hour helpline – 0800 456 789

    Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322

    Postnatal Depression Support Association (PNDSA): 082 882 0072

    Sisters in Solidarity (SIS): A community-driven initiative supporting mothers in distress. More

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    How creative director Gabriella Khalil translates the Palm Heights aesthetic to H&M Home

    Get ready to vacation without leaving your space. Gabriella Khalil, the New York-based creative mind behind Grand Cayman’s cult-favourite beachfront boutique hotel, Palm Heights, has teamed up with H&M Home for a transportive home collection. Think retro stripes and sunny essentials that bring the spirit of the Caribbean straight to your living room.
    The stylish 23-piece collection, launched June 12, 2025, evokes the signature design universe and sun-drenched, glamorous spirit of the hotel, with a transporting array of objects that bring the holiday feeling into your space. “It’s about a feeling,” Khalil says, describing the ethos behind the design that invites a new way to live with vacation in mind.
    In this exclusive interview, Gabriella Khalil and Evelina Kravaev-Söderberg, Head of Design and Creative at H&M Home, share the story behind the collaboration, how the visual DNA of Palm Heights evolved into home decor, for a touch of escapism at home.
    Palm Heights is more than a hotel — it’s a fully immersive aesthetic. How did you translate its unique design DNA into this collaboration with H&M HOME?
    GK: Aside from working with the design codes, it was more about translating a feeling. AtPalm Heights, we want people to come together, relax, have a good time, and feel connected. The collection features all of these elements – from cosy bathrobes to glassware and games. I hope these speak to the experience we have tried to create.
    The 1970s Caribbean influence is palpable in both the hotel and this collection. What draws you to that particular era, and how did you reinterpret it for modern interiors?
    GK: It was a spirit of what we call the glory days of the Caribbean – moments from that time— and the architecture of the building itself, which lent itself to that era. We wanted to celebrate this moment and hone in on it. Some photography by Slim Aarons, and also Grace Jones, has been an ongoing reference.
    There’s a playful edge throughout — from the striped robes to the beach tennis set. How do you balance visual sophistication with this sense of fun? 
    GK: I always say that Palm Heights might be highly visual and chic, but at the same time, there’s a real playfulness about it.  We have tables of backgammon on the beach near the chairs. So those, I think, are super fun and colourful and a little bit ‘pop’. I just felt like it was an important addition.The collection feels deeply personal. Which piece feels most “you” — and why?
    GK: All of the pieces feel like a piece of the Palm Heights world, which in turn links to my style. I am always focused on details in spaces. Materials like the soft terry robes and towels, as well as the sandstone on the vases and candles, resonate with me. I always love to use layers of texture and movement, and I think these objects embody that. 

    Community plays a big role in the Palm Heights ethos. How did that value shape your creative process for this collaboration?
    GK: Community and collaboration have always been core values of the brand. So, collaborating with incredible creatives has been an ongoing process, and through this community was built. I took the same approach while working with H&M Home and focused on objects that express the spirit of holiday and bring people together (beautiful tabletop pieces, beach towels, and games), and this allows people to bring this to their own spaces this summer. 
    You describe this collection as bringing the holiday feeling home. What does that sense of escapism look like for you, personally?GK: My ultimate holiday is a location where I can relax but also discover. I love details, and whether that be seen in linens, service, or even the mini bar, this idea of a special curation is what makes an experience go from good to spectacular.  I tried to connect these details to the H&M Home pieces for a full experience of a holiday at home!  
    You’ve created a global design destination in the heart of the Caribbean. What excites you most about introducing Palm Heights to homes across the UAE and beyond?
    GK: Palm Heights has always had a very strong and specific visual narrative. The idea of giving guests a very elevated experience where they can also truly be themselves and relax was a key component. I hope that as we introduce the hotel to homes across the UAE that the playful and elegant spirit of the property is felt. 
    You’ve collaborated with a number of visionaries, but what was it about Gabriella’s creative universe that made her the ideal partner for this collection?
    EKS: We loved the creative universe of Palm Heights, but we became even more intrigued by the fact that there was a strong and fascinating woman behind it. Gabriella is so impressive, and it was wonderful to gain an understanding of her vision and her process.

    Palm Heights is such a visually rich space. What were the first elements that inspired your team when translating the hotel into a product line?
    EKS: I would say the colours. We talked about sunset hues — yellow as a key colour in the assortment, along with the stripes. In terms of product, the bathrobes and towels are significant because it is a beach resort. The Cayman Islands are very much about the sun and the sea.There’s a strong tactile element to the collection — from handwoven textures to teak ceramics. How important was materiality in shaping the mood of the pieces?
    EKS: H&M HOME is about democratic modern design that is done mindfully, and I think that is expressed through the materials. In general, we work as sustainably as we can and lean into natural materials for this collection, as the hotel has lots of earthy materials — travertine and other types of stone, like marble, in its design.

    This collaboration fuses design storytelling with accessibility. How do you ensure the soul of a high-end boutique hotel translates into attainable pieces for the home?
    EKS: Gabriella was true to herself and her vision for Palm Heights, but she was also open to what we could contribute, our knowledge of our customers, and commercial aspects. Our goal is to make the world more beautiful for many people, not just a select few. With homewares and objects, I think we can capture the spirit of a place in an accessible way. For example, the games are completely new product types for us. We aimed to capture the energy of the place and evoke a holiday feeling in the collection.
    The collection evokes a sense of place and time. How did you balance nostalgia with contemporary appeal in the design direction?
    EKS: I think that is a mirror of what Gabriella has achieved with the hotel: it is energetic and modern, with a bit of a retro Seventies feel, but very contemporary. For H&M HOME, we have a design-driven focus on creating modern interior objects – the collection creates a perfect fusion.
    From scent to color palette, the sensory details are incredibly considered. What role do these finer touches play in the emotional impact of a home?
    EKS: Sensory experiences, from scents, textures, to colours add so much to our homes. They create a mood and an ambiance, simply a place to feel at home. You have the functional necessities of interior objects, which can also be very beautiful, but the emotional value lies in creating something that extends beyond what the eye sees.   How do you see H&M HOME’s collaborations influencing the way consumers style their spaces, especially in an increasingly digital and design-aware world?
    EKS: Our ambition is to create accessibility for our customers and invite them to have a piece of something unique in their homes with our collaborations. With Palm Heights, we want to extend the hotel’s energy and atmosphere into our customers ‘homes.

    The Palm Heights collection launches across the region in June. What do you hope Middle Eastern customers feel when they experience it in store?
    EKS: We hope that our Middle Eastern customers will be swept away by the escapism and playfulness of the collection. The collaboration happens at the intersection of H&M HOME’s design-driven mission to create modern interior objects and Palm Heights’ unique soul of a 70s Caribbean.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    13 exciting indoor activities to book this summer in Dubai

    Life

    June 17, 2025

    As the temperatures soar for the next few months, keeping ourselves entertained with indoor activities throughout the summer months.
    From experiencing art to visiting an independent cinema with friends and family, there’s something for everyone to experience.
    So, without reminiscing on the cooler months, it’s time to make the most of the indoors. Also one can experience the plethora of activities in Dubai that are worth every dime.
    Instead, you should be turning to the incredible indoor offerings Dubai has ready for the summer months, and believe us.Choosing an indoor summer activity can depend on various factors such as your interests, budget, and available time. Hence, we’re here to help you decide.
    Identify your interests
    What do you enjoy doing? If it’s reading, crafting, fitness or games, this guide has something for everyone. It’s also important to see if you prefer solitary activities or group activities.
    Assess available time
    How much time do you have? If it’s a few hours then opt for a sound healing session for an hour is a time bound activity. If you have the entire day, then a session at The Jam Jar is more fluid.
    Consider your goals
    To relax, laid-back activities such a spa day or a self-care zen session is the perfect option. For something new or exciting, Dubai has a myriad of options. They include TODA or a museum to open your mind and expand the horizon.
    Total people
    If it’s a group activity, finding something suitable such as a Roast lunch or The Smash Room. These activities can work best to enjoy in a collective setting.
    Take a break from the mundane trips to the mall and cinema visits. For some inspiration on your next weekend plan or midweek treat, swipe through our gallery of where to book.

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

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Your Aura Color Could Be the Secret to Avoiding Burnout

    Have you ever noticed that certain environments either drain you or make you feel supercharged, for reasons you can’t quite explain? In today’s fast-paced professional world, success is often attributed to hard skills, experience, and strategy. But there might actually be a more subtle force at play—your aura color. Once I started paying attention to my own aura color, I began to understand why certain tasks lit me up and others drained me, and why I thrived in some roles but felt stuck in others.

    Your aura can play a big role in the workplace, from how you communicate to how you handle stress or lead a team. If you’ve ever felt like your job “just doesn’t fit” or wondered why some days feel effortless while others are a total drag, look to your aura color. It can offer some clues and tools to protect your energy at work, harness your strengths, and ultimately succeed in the workplace. Curious about how your aura might be affecting your 9-to-5? Let’s dive in.

    What is an aura color?

    Rooted in metaphysical traditions, an aura is believed to be the energetic field surrounding your body, reflecting your emotional, mental, and spiritual state. Each color within this field carries unique traits, which can influence how you show up in life, and in this case, at work. Unlike our zodiac signs, your aura color can shift and change over time, letting you self-reflect with more accuracy. To determine your aura color, you can try visualizing it through guided meditations, or, more concretely, by taking a quiz online or scheduling an in-person reading with a psychic

    READ: Are Auras The New Zodiac? Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Aura Color

    How knowing your aura can help you optimize your work

    According to experts at Psychic Source, your aura is “constantly influencing how others perceive you and how you navigate professional environments.” By understanding your aura, you can gain valuable insight into how to protect your energy and build a workflow that plays to your strengths. It can also help you anticipate where you might need support or more focus, so you can collaborate more intentionally and create an environment that keeps you inspired rather than drained.

    “By understanding your aura, you can gain valuable insight into how to protect your energy and build a workflow that plays to your strengths.”

    For example, your aura color can help you understand how you communicate, which can be helpful to know when you’re working on a team. Similarly, your aura color can tell you what environments drain you, which can inform you of what might cause you to burn out. That being said, some colors fluctuate depending on your stress level or emotional state, and darker hues like brown or black can signal burnout or the need for boundaries. By having an awareness of your aura color and that of others, you can become a better communicator, team member, and manager. Plus, it can help you feel happier and more energized in the workplace.

    How your aura color affects you at work

    Red

    A red aura is a powerhouse—bold, confident, and driven. They take charge without hesitation, thrive in high-pressure environments, and are motivated by results. You’ll often find red auras in leadership roles, keeping the engine running and the team motivated. However, this intensity can come with a downside: red auras may struggle with slowing down, delegating, or recognizing when they’re heading toward burnout. Someone with a red aura might power through a 10-hour workday without breaks, only to find themselves irritable or mentally drained by the end of the week. Things that might help a red aura feel more relaxed and balanced at work include desk stretching, movement breaks, or maybe even a career detox if necessary.

    Orange

    You know the worker who always has high energy and is entirely solution-focused? They probably have an orange aura. They thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments where quick decisions and action are essential. For example, on a tight deadline, an orange aura team member might take the lead in troubleshooting issues or rallying the team to push through the final stretch. However, their high energy can sometimes work against them. Without balance, orange auras can become overstimulated, restless, or even impatient, especially if stuck in repetitive or slow-moving tasks. “People” breaks, changing up the environment, and injecting fun into boring tasks, like playing upbeat music, can help them keep calm and collected.

    Yellow

    A yellow aura is the optimist of the workplace. They are upbeat, creative, and always full of new ideas. When a team feels stuck on a project, it’s often the yellow aura who throws out the bold, unexpected idea that gets everyone re-engaged. Their positivity lights up a room, but they’re prone to burnout from people-pleasing. Since they are energized by collaboration and optimism, group brainstorming, daily affirmations, and color-coded to-do lists can help them keep organized, set boundaries, and not take on too much.

    Green

    In the workplace, a green aura is often known as a helper; their empathetic nature can’t help it. A green aura indicates a nurturing presence that others instinctively turn to for support. They’re the ones who remember birthdays, check in on colleagues having a tough day, and are always willing to lend a hand. They are great listeners, but can sometimes give too much of themselves and have a hard time setting boundaries. Since they crave stability, desk plants, grounding rituals, and lunch outdoors can help keep them at peace and protect their energy.

    Blue

    The calm communicators in the workplace likely have a blue aura. They are known for their honesty, empathy, and ability to bring peace to the team. Their diplomatic nature makes them valuable during high-stakes meetings or when emotions run high on a team. However, blue auras tend to be sensitive to overstimulation. When a workplace becomes too loud or conflict-heavy, they may withdraw or become overwhelmed. Since they need creative stimulation and calm spaces, playing instrumental music, lighting a candle, and taking walks can help keep them happy at work.

    Purple

    Purple auras are the visionaries who bring fresh insights to the team, which is often ideal for strategy, innovation, or high-level creativity roles. For example, a purple aura might propose a bold shift in direction that seems risky at first but later proves to be exactly what the company needed to stay ahead. They are intuitive and deep thinkers who need alone time. Too many meetings, interruptions, or noisy environments can overload their senses and diminish their ability to think clearly. Blocking out calendar time for themselves and using noise-canceling headphones are helpful to keep them refreshed and focused.

    White

    A worker with a highly intuitive and sensitive nature likely has a white aura. They are deeply aware of their own boundaries and the subtle energies around them, often sensing the emotions in the workplace before anyone else does. However, even though they recognize the importance of setting boundaries, white auras often need to remind themselves to take that time to protect their energy. White auras often use shielding techniques—mental or emotional practices that help them maintain a sense of calm and separation from external chaos. Without regular self-care, they’re at risk of feeling overwhelmed or burned out. They need mindful breaks, such as meditation or journaling, between tasks to keep them sane and happy in the workplace.

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
    Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content. More

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    UAE announces 3-day weekend for Islamic new year

    Life

    June 16, 2025

    The UAE has officially declared Friday, June 27, 2025, a public holiday in observance of the Islamic New Year, marking the beginning of the Hijri year 1447 AH. The announcement, made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), ensures a three-day weekend for federal government employees, with work resuming on Monday, June 30.
    The Islamic, or Hijri, calendar is based on lunar cycles, with the new year starting on the first day of Muharram—one of the four sacred months in Islam. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, Islamic dates shift annually by about 10-12 days, as they depend on moon sightings. This year’s holiday follows the UAE Cabinet’s pre-approved list of 2025 public holidays, with the exact date confirmed by official moon-sighting committees.
    While the FAHR’s announcement applies to federal government employees, private sector workers will follow the UAE’s labor law, which grants them the same public holidays unless otherwise stated by their employers. Residents should confirm with their HR departments to ensure alignment.
    This holiday comes shortly after the extended Eid Al Adha break, giving residents yet another opportunity to relax, travel, or spend time with family. With a three-day weekend ahead, many may take advantage of short getaways or staycations, boosting local tourism and hospitality sectors.
    When’s the next long weekend in the UAE?

    What’s Open, What’s Closed?
    While government offices and some businesses will close, shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues are expected to remain open, offering special promotions and events to mark the occasion. Public transport schedules may also see slight adjustments, so commuters should check for updates.
    The Hijri New Year is more than just a day off—it’s a moment for spiritual reflection and renewal. Many Muslims use this time to set intentions for the year ahead, recite prayers, and engage in charitable acts.
    12 activities to try over the long weekend in the UAE

    As the UAE continues to balance modern life with deep-rooted traditions, this holiday serves as a reminder of the country’s cultural and religious heritage. Whether you’re planning a getaway or a quiet weekend at home, make the most of this well-deserved break.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: @humairaa_____ More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    How this fitness brand puts design and functionality at the forefront of its mission

    We discuss changing the game in the fitness industry with Natalie Holloway, founder of Bala.
    How does your morning routine set you up for optimal success and how does this change or not according to your travel schedule?
    Sleep is incredibly important to me – especially with three little ones – so my mornings vary depending on how the night went. No two morningslook exactly the same, and I’ve learned to embrace that. I try to move my body, even if it’s just ten minutes of stretching or breathwork. Movement really helps me feel grounded and ready for the day.
    What was the catalyst to founding Bala and how did you know it was the right time?
    Bala was born out of an idea during a yoga class while traveling to Asia with my husband. We started brainstorming how we could’ve made the class more challenging – and more fun. We saw a white space where workout equipment was either overly masculine or purely functional. We realised the market was saturated with overly serious equipment, but nothing seemed playful or aesthetic. It wasn’t about the “right” time, it was about the right feeling. The idea was drawn on a napkin and the rest is history!
    What learnings did you take with you to equip you for this from previous roles, and how much did you learn as you built the brand?
    I came from a background in advertising, which definitely helped – especially with branding and communication. But honestly, most of the real learning came on the job. Scaling a product-based business is a masterclass in resilience. From navigating manufacturing to understanding community engagement, operations, and logistics – it’s been a hands-on education every single day.

    How would you differentiate Bala from what else exists and what are the key pillars the brand is built on?
    Bala is grounded in the idea that movement should be enjoyable and fun! At Bala, we believe beautiful, functional fitness equipment will change the way you move. Because we understand that your life includes exercise but is not exclusively defined by it.
    What are the core values of your brand?
    Creativity, inclusivity, intentionality, and joy. Those values are woven into everything from our product design to our partnerships. We want people to feel uplifted by the brand – like they’re part of something personal and elevated.
    What was your approach to investment and what would you advise others if they are building a brand themselves?
    We were very scrappy in the beginning. Shark Tank was a pivotal moment for us – not just in funding, but in visibility. My advice to others: know your numbers, understand your customer deeply, and only bring in partners who align with your vision.
    What do you look for in terms of partnerships?
    We look for partners who share our values – wellness, creativity, and authenticity are big for us. But honestly, the most exciting collaborations are often the unexpected ones. Our partnership with PUCCI is a perfect example – playful, bold, and totally outside the box. We love when a collab brings a little surprise and sparks joy in a way people didn’t see coming.
    The colourways you use are super aesthetic. How conscious was design as well as functionality in terms of brand positioning?
    Design has always been at the heart of Bala. We’ve said from the beginning,we’re a design-led fitness brand. We approached our products the way afashion or interiors brand might, thinking carefully about colour, material, and feel. But it wasn’t perfect from day one – it’s been a lot of trial and error, listening closely to our community, and evolving along the way. Over time, we’ve landed on core colours that really reflect who we are (Sea, Sage, Charcoal, Blush, Sand) and we’re so proud of how they’ve become such a recognisable part of the brand.

    How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
    We’re very hands-on with our manufacturing partners and have a strong internal team dedicated to quality control. We’d rather grow slowly and maintain integrity than scale fast and lose trust. Quality is non-negotiable for us! With social media constantly changing, how do you stay ahead of the curve? We try not to get caught up in chasing every trend – instead, we stay grounded by listening to our community. Platforms change, algorithms shift, but what doesn’t change is the importance of showing up with intention and authenticity. We adapt where it makes sense, but we really focus on staying true to our brand rather than doing what’s trendy.
    How has being LA-based helped or hindered the brand growth?
    LA has definitely helped. It’s a wellnessforward city with a strong creative pulse. Being here has opened doors to great partnerships, studios, talent, and visibility. That said, we’re conscious of creating a brand that resonates globally – not just in an LA bubble.
    If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
    Keep working hard. Keep trusting your gut. You are on the right path and it will all pay off in the end to lead you to your dream job and life.
    This is The Self-Care Issue – how do you stay kind to yourself during challenging times?
    As a mother of three, staying kind to myself means giving myself permission to pause. Movement is a big part of how I reset – but so is rest. Whether it’s a walk, a quick stretch, or just five quiet minutes to myself, I try to carve out little moments to recharge. I’ve learned that disconnecting when I need to is just as important as showing up. Taking care of myself helps me be more present – as a mother, a wife, and in my work – so I’ve learned to give myself a lot of grace along the way.

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

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    7 inspiring wellness communities to be a part of in Dubai

    Life

    June 16, 2025

    Whether you’re looking to elevate your running game or simply take some time out for a sound healing class – these fitness communities are worth joining.
    As Dubai continues to be a home to a thriving wellness community that caters to holistic health, fitness, and well-being – it’s more about creative inclusive groups that support each other to achieve their goals.
    From yoga studios and mindfulness retreats to holistic healing centers and fitness collectives, the city offers a diverse range of spaces for individuals seeking balance and self-care. Whether you’re looking for guided meditation, alternative therapies, or group wellness activities, Dubai’s wellness hubs provide a supportive environment to nurture both body and mind.
    So, if you’re looking to be a part of one, scroll through our guide of trusted communities that worth joining in Dubai.
    The Pink Majlis

    The Pink Majlis is a women-focused club dedicated to fostering a safe and empowering community for like-minded individuals. More than just a discussion group, it offers a dynamic range of experiences—from Pilates workshops and entrepreneurial pop-ups to curated brunches that spark meaningful conversations. By blending connection, wellness, and support, The Pink Majlis creates a vibrant space where women can thrive together.
    For more information, visit @thepinkmajlis.
    Beyond Wellness

    From retreats to corporate wellness events, this community ensures workouts are given a new meaning. With something for everyone – the platform has a myriad of workouts every week ranging from Yin Yoga to floating sound healings. There are different packages for each session along with wellness retreats arranged internationally. Launched by Rachel Dowes, this life and business transformation hub, focuses on building a facility to grow women in the UAE.
    For more information visit @beyondwellnessdxb
    RunKwa

    This nonprofit organization works on collecting discarded running shoes and donate it to talented runners who simply can’t afford to buy them. Taking place every Tuesday, this community focuses on building a platform that makes people go from stangers to friends. With the intention of running, giving and smiling, this 5km experience every morning works on building a close knit family every week.
    For more information visit @runwa_
    The Uncommon Club

    For a nuanced approach to run clubs, The Uncommon Club is know for their unique collaborations with various cafés and restaurants around Dubai. The standard run club sessions take place every Tuesday from 5pm at Kite Beach. From coach-led sessions to community events, this members only experience focuses on building a platform for likeminded people to meet each other. Their tagline is ‘No One Gets Left Behind.’
    For more information visit @theuncommonclub
    Club Somewhere (Launching Soon)

    Launched by UAE-based entrepreneur Jannat Miranda, Club Somewhere is not just a club, it’s a culture. This members-driven experience offers immersive creative wellness events, with movement sessions, panels and artistic workshops. With a myriad of people in the creative space, this allows many of them to connect. Club Somewhere is for those who want more than just another gym, another event, or another networking space. It’s for the creatives, the movers, the ones looking for something real.
    Humantra Run Club

    The Humantra Run Club is a welcoming running community in Dubai, hosting a free “Any Pace Any Face” 5km run every Saturday at 6:45am from Jumeirah 3 Beach, near Common Grounds Cafe. Open to all fitness levels, their sessions include post-run stretching and socialising over coffee. They also organise occasional long runs on Sundays. It’s perfect for anyone looking to improve fitness and connect with like-minded runners. For an additional boost of energy – the humantra sachets can energise you through your run.
    For more information visit @humantra
    Adidas Runners Club

    Adidas Runners is a global running community that connects runners of all levels through group training, events, and personal development. In Dubai, members can join local runs, participate in training sessions, and engage through the Adidas Runners Dubai page or the Facebook group.
    For more information visit @adidasdubai
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    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @elisehoogerdijk More