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      Eco-artist Natalia Kapchuk on championing creativity and the causes close to her heart

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      What does the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      The first 30 minutes of my mornings are dedicated to self-care and setting a positive tone for the rest of my day. I usually start by drinking a glass of lemon water to hydrate my body and flush out any toxins from my system. Then I do a quick yoga routine to stretch my muscles and calm my mind. I find that starting the day with physical activity helps me feel energized and focused. After yoga, I have a healthy breakfast, usually consisting of oats and fresh fruits, or if I’m on the go, a quick smoothie will suffice. I make sure to fuel my body with nutritious food to keep me going throughout the day. And as an eco-artist, I’m also conscious of my impact on the environment, so I try to eat seasonaland locally sourced products, I avoid single-use plastic as much as possible.
      Tell us more about the concept behind The Lost Planet series.
      I’ve always been passionate about using my art to raise awareness about environmental issues and the impact that human activity has on our planet. The inspiration for my series The Lost Planet came from my growing concern about the degradation of our environment and the loss of biodiversity. I wanted to create a visual representation of the beauty of our planet and its collision with the impact that human activities are placing on it. I believe that art has the power to evoke emotions and stimulate change, and I wanted to use this power to raise awareness about the urgent need for us to protect our planet.
      What eco-friendly techniques or materials have you employed in the process of creating pieces for The Lost Planet series?
      I take great care in selecting my materials, blending natural elements like sand, volcanic stone, ash, crystals, fermented moss, dry flowers, tree bark, and more with industrial materials such as resin, resi-crete, paint, metal leaf, and fiberglass alternatives, expressing the interconnectedness of our world. The result in my opinion is a mesmerizing combination of textures, colours, and contrasts. In my piece Plastic Network (2019), for example, I invite observers to reexamine their actions and their impact on the world. This installation was created using single-use plastics, and The Lost Planet series as a whole, highlights the urgent need for change and is a love letter to my adoration of nature and discovery. For all who are able to attend, I welcome you to witness my latest exhibition, The Lost Planet at the architectural marvel that is the ME Dubai Hotel, designed by the late Zaha Hadid. This iconic structure will serve as a fitting backdrop to display my artworks and create a one-of-a-kind experience. The private view of the exhibition will take place on February 28, while public viewing will be open from March 1 to 28, 2023. I am confident that the combination of this stunning venue and the powerful messages instilled within my art will leave a lasting impression.
      What do your artworks represent and what are you hoping for it to achieve?
      My artworks represent my deep-rooted concern for the environment and my desire to raise awareness about environmental issues through my creative prowess. I know that I may often sound like a bit of a broken record, but I am a firm believer that art has the power to evoke emotions and stimulate thoughts, making it a powerful tool for creating change. My mixed media artworks highlight the pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation, plastic pollution, and wildlife extinction – the list goes on sadly, that the world is facing today. I use a blend of materials, such as recycled objects, natural fibres, and re-claimed woods and elements to reflect the harm we are causing to the planet and the need to restore it to its natural state. Through my art, I hope to inspire individuals to act toward a more sustainable future. I believe that by raising awareness and encouraging people to question their daily habits and consumption patterns, we can create a ripple effect that leads to larger-scale change. Moreover, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of my artworks goes towards environmental organizations and initiativesdear to my heart working towards a greener future. I aim to use my art not just as a means of spreading awareness but also as a sourceof funding for environmental causes that I am passionate about.

      Where do you draw inspiration from?
      I draw inspiration from the world around us, as I am particularly drawn to the beauty and majesty of nature, and the delicate balance between all living things. Through my work, I aim to capture the essence of the natural world and convey the message that we must all work together to protect it. Whether by the vibrant colours of a sunset, the intricacies of Earth’s flora, or the vastness of the heavens, the world around us is full of inspiration for those who seek it.
      Where do you source your materials from and how challenging was it to refine this process?
      A vast majority of my designs utilize sustainable and eco-friendly materials that I source through a variety of channels. These items include recycled plastics, reclaimed wood, other discarded materials, and more. I find immense love for upcycling and repurposing these materials, giving them new life through my art. I can admit that the process of refining my materialscan be challenging at times, but it is also incredibly rewarding. I say this because selecting materials that are safe for the environment and do not contribute to the ongoing problem of plastic pollution is important to me. This often requires me to spend time researching the materials and their sources, as well as experimenting with different techniques to create the desired effect. I also have to be mindful of the limitations of the materials and how they will hold up over time, especially since I want my art to last for generations. Despite the challenges, I believe that the work I am doing is important and has the potential to make a real impact on the world. It’s a journey that I am proud to be on and I am excited to see where it will take me next.
      What have you learnt in the brand-building process and what advice would you give to those wanting to carve out their own pioneering career path?
      Hmm. Great question. What I have learned throughout my career is that branding is crucial in building a successful career in the art world, or any realm for that matter. A strong and unique brand helps to differentiate you from others and establishes your credibility while setting you apart as an expert in your field. In my journey, I have learned that it’s vital to have a clear understanding of your artistic vision and to stay true to it. This will help you to develop a consistent and recognizable style that is easily identifiable with your brand. It’s also important to actively promote your work, through social media, exhibitions, and collaborations with other artists. This can help to build your network and increase exposure to your work. One of the most important things I have learned is to never stop learning and growing. This means constantly experimenting with new techniques and materials and staying up to date with the latest developments in the art world. It’s important to be open to new ideas and perspectives and to be willing to take risks and push the boundaries of your artistic practice. My advice is to be passionate and persistent. Building a successful career in the art world takes time and hard work. Focus on your art, and never be afraid to take chances or to make mistakes. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision and never stop striving to improve your craft.
      How have you found social media has supported your brand growth and your advocacy?
      I have found social media to be a valuable tool in supporting my brand growth and advocacy. It allows me to showcase my work, reach a wider audience, and most importantly raiseawareness about environmental issues. Social media has helped me establish a strong online presence and expand my reach through hashtags and tagging relevant individuals and organizations. Through consistent engagement and a commitment to my message, I have been able to make a real impact and reach new audiences. Throughout your career in the art space so far, are there any difficulties you’ve faced? As a female contemporary artist in the art space, I have faced several challenges throughout my career. One of the biggest difficulties has been navigating the competitive and often maledominated art world. As a woman, I have faced obstacles in terms of recognition and representation. Another challenge I have faced is balancing the business side of my art with the creative side. Running a successful art career involves a lot of administrative and financial work, and it can be difficult to find the time and energy to focus on both my art and the behind-the-scenes tasks required to run a business. That’s why I have surrounded myself with a strong team to make this process easier. I have also faced the challenge of staying true to my artistic vision while still appealing to a wider audience. It can be tempting to compromise my style or message to fit into what is currently popular or in demand, but it’s important to stay true to what I believe in and what sets my work apart.
      How did you develop your signature mixed-media assemblage technique?
      I developed my signature mixed-media style through a combination of experimentation, exploration, and intuition. My approach to art is rooted in a deep appreciation for the environment and a commitment to sustainable practices. This led me to experiment with using a range of materials and techniques to create unique and thought-provoking pieces that explore the relationship between humans and nature. I started incorporating different materials, such as recycled and found objects, into my work to create a more layered and textured visual experience. Over time, I honed my technique, becoming more confident in my ability to seamlessly integrate different materials and techniques into a cohesive whole. Through trial and error, I discovered the power of combining different textures and materials to create a multi-dimensional visual experience that engages the viewer on multiple levels. This led to the development of my signature mixed-media assemblage technique, which has become a defining characteristic of my work.
      This is The Style Issue – what does style mean to you?
      Personal style to me is about making informed and responsible decisions in how we present ourselves to the world. It is also about making conscious choices and taking a stand against the fast-paced and often unsustainable fashion industry, recognizing the impact our fashion choices place on the environment. Style transcends mere physical appearance and becomes a symbol of one’s individuality, showcasing who they are and what they stand for.
      March’s – The Style Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Saudi Arabia purchases 72 Boeing jetliners for new national airline Riyadh Air

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      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      58 mins ago

      Riyadh Air, launched by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has struck a multi-billion dollar deal with The Boeing Company, placing an order of up to 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and options for further 33 additional airplanes.
      This agreement will be part of the fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history. In the United States alone, the deal is expected to support nearly 100,000 direct and indirect jobs and more than 300 suppliers from across 38 states, including 145 U.S. small businesses. As for Saudi Arabia, the new airline is expected to add USD20 billion to non-oil GDP growth and create more than 200,000 direct and indirect jobs.
      This power move is a part of Saudi Arabia’s wider strategic plan to transform the country into a global aviation hub. This initiative will also support the country’s goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visits by 2030.

      Keeping Riyadh’s environmental goals in mind, the new airline aims to operate as one of the most sustainable airline fleets in the world, while intending to meet the most stringent noise regulations.
      “This is a momentous day for PIF and Riyadh Air. We look forward to fostering strong strategic relationships within the wider aviation ecosystem as we continue to shape the new airline to become one of the leading carriers around the world,” exclaimed His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan Governor of the PIF and Chairman of Riyadh Air.
      Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes also shared his thoughts on this new venture. “This is a significant order that will support Riyadh Air’s commitment to deliver a world-class travel experience, while supporting American aerospace manufacturing jobs at Boeing and across our supply chain. We are incredibly proud of our nearly eight decades of partnership to drive innovation and sustainable growth in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.”
      With cutting edge of technology that enables digital innovation, Riyadh Air will offer a unique guest experience, accentuated with authentic, warm Saudi hospitality at its heart.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      8 outdoor activities to try in the UAE this winter

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      As temperatures drop in the UAE, outdoor activities are again on our radar.
      From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
      To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
      Go sky high

      The first to operate balloon flights in the northern Emirates, ActionFlight, has recently launched in Ras Al Khaimah. The flight will take visitors soaring over the rolling terracotta dunes for awe-inspiring sunrise views of the Emirate’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Operating seven days a week during the ballooning season, the picturesque experience sets afloat in the Al Wadi desert, where guests will board the 450,000 cubic feet balloon standing at a colossal 34.6m. Taking flight just before sunrise, the journey lasts approximately 60-minutes where visitors can marvel at the illuminated desert dunes, majestic Hajar mountains and glistening coastline and might even be able to spot special appearances from the indigenous wildlife. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. Guests can relax and unwind as they indulge in a decadent selection of dishes and be treated to a fascinating bird of prey show with native Arabian falcons, owls and hawks. Post-trip, all passengers will take home a souvenir flight certificate signed by the Balloon Pilot as a memento from the extraordinary experience. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. The family-friendly flight has the capacity to carry up to 20 passengers and for those looking for a more intimate experience, private compartment and flight bookings are available on request. ActionFlight will run flights seven days per week, flight availability may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Kids under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets start at Dhs1,315 per adult and Dhs1,155 per child inclusive of the flight and return transport.
      For more information visit actionflight.ae
      Book an alfresco dining experience

      It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
      Try a glamping experience

      If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
      For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
      Visit this famed desert café

      With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
      For more information visit onedegree.ae
      Hone your equestrian skills

      From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
      Swing your best shot

      For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
      For more information visit topgolf.ae
      Go ziplining

      Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
      It’s time to trek

      Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
      To make a booking head to visithatta.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More

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      Lindsay Lohan shares her pregnancy news via a heartfelt post on Instagram

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Lindsay Lohan is soon going to be a mother and we couldn’t be more excited.
      Taking the news to Instagram, the actress shared the news with her 12.5 million fans in a sweet post that read “coming soon.”

      The caption said, “We are blessed and excited! 🙏🤍👶🍼,” she captioned a photo of a white baby onesie with the words “coming soon…” laid out on a bed.
      Lohan is married to businessman Bader Shammas with this baby being their first child together. The couple, who met in Dubai, have been incredibly private about their relationship and Shammas is not in the public eye.
      When did they tie the knot?

      Lohan revealed she secretly wed Shammas back in July in an Instagram post to mark her 36th birthday, where she referred to the financier as her “husband”.
      Lohan shared a photo with her now-husband, saying she was the “luckiest woman in the world”. The star also appeared to be wearing a diamond wedding band paired with her engagement ring.
      “You found me and knew that I wanted to find happiness and grace, all at the same time,” she said in the caption. “I am stunned that you are my husband. My life and my everything. Every woman should feel like this everyday.”
      The couple had first made their red-carpet debut in New York City for the screening of her highly anticipated Netflix release Falling for Christmas in November, 2022.
      Congratulations to the lovely couple for this joyous news!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      This Mother’s Day treat your Mum with a series of exquisite gifts from Flowwow

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: With Mother’s Day soon approaching on March 21, 2023, it’s time to shop for the most important woman in your life.
      Whether a small token of appreciation or something practical for her to cherish forever, Flowwow is a website with local online stores where you can order flower delivery in Dubai and mother’s day gifts with same-day or next-day delivery.
      If you’re looking at what to purchase as a kind token of appreciation, scroll through our editor-approved guide to make your shopping experience a whole lot easier.

      With a host of luxurious bouquets curated by local artisans, there’s an exquisite selection of arrangements varying from roses to hydrangeas, to make the celebration memorable.

      No special day is celebrated without a cake to mark their love and experience the joyous occasion. A custom cake or a box of craft chocolates is a simple yet stylish present, guaranteed to be enjoyed by your mother. With a meaningful phrase or an inside memory, this day can be cherished for years to come.

      For a long-lasting keepsake, dried flowers are the perfect option to showcase endless love as a precious memoir. With delicate lavender accompanied by its impressionable scent, mothers can feel at ease after a long day and embark on a calming journey from the minute they enter their room.

      If you’re on the lookout for gifts to complement the bouquets, opts for the customised balloons to make her feel loved. Whether red balloons to complement the red bouquets or bespoke confetti rose gold balloons, there are a plethora of hues and patterns to choose from as you scroll through this platform.

      For an elegant possession to gift your mother with, jewellery always works wonders. As a universal gift idea, there are various designs from dainty necklaces to bold pieces to fit your mum’s individual aesthetic.

      To add a hint of greenery at home, indoor plants work as the best option to redecorate any specific area and work as a sign of love and care when treated with love.

      To bestow her with natural scents, there’s an array of handmade soaps that will always allow the gift giver to be remembered with their warm delicate scent.
      So, if anyone deserves to be showered with love on this special occasion, it’s all the mothers and to guide you the process, Frowow, has a wide range of products starting from Dhs80 with same-day delivery and hassle-free shopping from the comfort of your home. For more information visit flowwow.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      What We Can Learn From Keeley’s Career Growth in Ted Lasso

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      Ted Lasso‘s Keeley Jones can do no wrong in the worlds of fashion, beauty, relationships, friendships, and career, so obviously, I consider her an icon. She’s a loyal friend and loving girlfriend who has nailed her personal style, prioritizes her self-care (I would kill for a bubble bath like hers), and now, is working her way to the top of her self-started career in public relations. IMO, she has everything going for her, and that’s only going to continue in season three as she takes on her very own PR firm with the help of Bantr, the dating app she successfully promoted while she was the Head of Marketing at AFC Richmond.
      At the end of season two, her career storyline really picks up, but if you think that Keeley’s career growth from influencer and model to CEO happened quickly, you weren’t watching close enough. The slow and steady build of Keeley’s success is directly related to the unwavering determination she’s had since the pilot. There is a lot we can learn from her—aside from her ability to rock a pink power suit and heels and make it look easy. From Keeley’s humble beginning to how she leveraged her connections to become a CEO, here is everything we can learn from Keeley Jones’ career growth:

      1. Doing what you’re passionate about leads to success
      As an influencer and a model, Keeley is naturally savvy when it comes to brand deals, social media, and public relations. She managed her own, helped her ex-boyfriend Jamie with his when they were still together, and even was able to help Ted manage negativity from the media when he first became the football coach. When Keeley was offered the job as Head of Marketing at AFC Richmond, she was able to take a step back from modeling jobs (remember when she was dressed as a lion for a vodka commercial?) and focus her efforts on marketing and public relations, which she is not only naturally good at but that excites her too.
      Finding out what you’re passionate about doesn’t always come easy, but it should happen naturally as it did for Keeley. Think about the things in your job now (or even something you do on the side!) that you are good at or that excite you. Then, ask your manager if you can take on more responsibility in that area or start doing more work on the side to gain more exposure and experience. Little by little, you’ll be in a position where you’re doing more of what you love, and TBH, that’s the key to success.

      2. Small steps yield big results
      When Keeley started at AFC Richmond, there was not a single brand deal in sight for most of the players, so she had to start from scratch. She set up times to talk to each player so she could figure out what would be a good fit for them before reaching out to the companies for deals. With a unicorn notebook in hand, Keeley started small and created opportunities for the club and herself one step at a time. By the end of season two, one of those brands (Bantr) noticed the effect of her efforts and was impressed with her enough to offer to fund a PR firm for her. This is all to say that success doesn’t happen overnight; It’s a slow build. It takes showing up each and every day and chipping away at your goals—even if some of those days turn into late nights (which we saw Keeley working in many episodes). Each step builds off of the next, so even if it doesn’t always feel like you’re making leaps and bounds of progress, your momentum will pick up, and you’ll start to see that the small things add up to be something bigger.

      3. Networking is crucial for career growth
      When Keeley met Rebecca, the owner of AFC Richmond, Keeley was instantly in awe of Rebecca’s success and badass attitude. She learned from Rebecca how to be a strong and accomplished woman in a place of leadership and their mentor-like relationship has significantly contributed to Keeley’s confidence in herself and in her role. And if it weren’t for Rebecca seeing Keeley’s potential, Keeley wouldn’t have gotten the opportunity to work with Bantr. Keeley has surrounded herself with people that build her up and create opportunities for her, which is something we should all be doing in our lives and careers. This is the perfect example of how networking and nurturing relationships can change the trajectory of your entire career. After all, she was featured in Vanity Fair as a powerful woman on the rise.

      4. Short-term sacrifices are necessary for long-term gain
      Arguably the biggest cliffhanger at the end of the second season is where Roy and Keeley’s relationship stands. She turns down an opportunity to go on vacation with him in Marbella so she can start her new company and hit the ground running. I don’t know about you, but I don’t consider turning down a vacation with a partner an easy thing to do. But for Keeley, it’s what she has to do to become the kind of CEO she wants to be. Making sacrifices is common and often necessary in these situations, and they can come in all forms. When we are going after something we want, we have to recognize what sacrifices are worth making for our end goal. Maybe that looks like skipping a vacation or working late nights like Keeley, or maybe it means letting go of people in your life that don’t support your goals. Whatever it looks like for you and your career, stand firm in what you want, and don’t let anyone or anything get in the way of following your dreams. It will pay off in the end.

      The Big Career Goal You Should Tackle in 2023 More

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      3 Valuable Career Lessons for Women, According to Kendra Scott

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      Welcome to The Everygirl Podcast. Whether you’re looking for insider secrets from successful women that have your dream job, are interested in expert advice to transform your health and feel your best, or just want to be entertained and laugh along with us on your commute, we’ve got you covered.

      Once upon a time, when The Everygirl had just barely hit the internet (think: ballet flats are trending, but like…for the first time), we published a fun little career profile on jewelry designer Kendra Scott. Ten years later, Kendra’s career advice is even more valuable than it was back in the ol’ days, which is why we’ve reunited with her for this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast. As a mega-successful jewelry designer, empathetic entrepreneur and philanthropist, and involved parent, Kendra Scott has brought a revolutionary customer-first approach to the world of fashion and jewelry.
      From her first failed attempt at launching a hat company at the age of 19 all the way until publishing her memoir Born to Shine, we can all learn something from Kendra’s fascinating career story. Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship yourself or just want to learn some lessons from one of the most successful women in the country, read on for three valuable career lessons from Kendra Scott that every woman should know, and listen to her interview on The Everygirl Podcast.

      1. Build a community of support, and don’t be afraid to ask for help
      96% of Kendra Scott employees are female, and Kendra sees this internal makeup as a huge strength to her brand. Part of that is the community of support that she has built among her employees; as a mom and a CEO, Kendra has a lot to do in her day, so she isn’t afraid to ask for help. “I really believe that we are stronger as women when we can be vulnerable with one another,” Kendra said on The Everygirl Podcast. That kind of vulnerability is what has made Kendra the CEO that puts the work-life balance of her employees first, while also running a billion-dollar business.
      If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your career, whether it’s about balancing work and life or completing an important project, asking for help can be a revolutionary positive act. When you ask for help in your career, it allows others who are feeling the same way to feel okay asking for help, too. This is what creates a community of support in your workplace that can carry you on to the next big thing.

      2. Emotion, compassion, and sensitivity are secret weapons for women leaders
      Given her massive success, Kendra spends a lot of time mentoring other young female jewelry designers in order to launch them to success in a challenging industry. She says that it’s important to her to never see other female designers as competition, and instead to look upon their success with an abundance mindset, because the empathy that women leaders have is capable of changing the world. “We lead with a lot of compassion, and it’s not a weakness,” Kendra said. “It’s not a weakness to have heart, to be thoughtful about things, to be emotional.” As a woman in the workplace, seeing empathy as a superpower instead of a weakness can launch you to new heights in your career.

      3. Learn to harness the power of being told “no”
      We all know that rejection in your career can really sting. When she first started out, Kendra was told “no” a lot: by potential buyers, by critics of her decision to invest in brick-and-mortar stores, and the list goes on. Through these rejections, Kendra developed a system: whenever she’s told “no,” she flips it around and says it’s “on.” She uses every “no” as an opportunity to learn why she received that rejection, and to ask questions about how she can do better in the future. “I become a sponge of information, I want to learn from this. And then I say to them, ‘Thank you so much for this great information,’” Kendra explained. Thankfully, hearing the word “no” never slowed Kendra Scott down, and now it won’t slow you down, either. More

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      How I got my Job as.. Founder of this couture cake atelier in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour 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 chat with Cake Artist, Mich Turner, Founder of Little Venice Cake Company, located at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal.
      Synonymous with understated elegance, Turner is a pioneer in the baking industry, a consultant to the retail and hospitality industry and known to combine her creativity with her work. As an award-winning entrepreneur, she has been awarded an MBE in 2010, for her services in the catering industry.
      Set to offer the best cakes for all kinds of celebrations from bespoke cakes to afternoon tea loaves, clients can customise the desserts as per their requirements. With celebrity clients such as Pierce Brosnan, and Emma Thompson, including Buckingham Palace and more.
      While the road to entrepreneurship wasn’t an easy path, she went against all means to come out successful. To understand more, Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about her career path and how she’s converted her passion into a full-time business.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      Chemistry, Biology and Home Economics.

      What was your first job?
      Bakery and a Patisserie Buyer at a luxury department store, Harvey Nichols.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I was introduced to the team behind the iconic Atlantis Dubai, who was looking for a cake offering within their new ultra-luxury resort, Atlantis The Royal.
      What inspired you to enter the f&b space and launch Little Venice Cake Company?
      Little Venice Cake Company creates premium luxury cakes for all celebrations and events. We offer a couture bespoke service to clients, working with esteemed partners in the hospitality, retail and events sectors. For me, launching Little Venice Cake Company was a passion to create amazing cakes for amazing people, in amazing venues, for amazing celebrations – offering the very best in professionalism, client service, refined opulent designs, and totally indulgent cakes.
      Talk us through the inspiration of your pieces.
      There is a story behind every cake and every cake has to tell that story. Understanding the who, why, when, where and how provides the mainframe for each design. The skill and expertise then come in combining artistry with technical expertise and hand craftsmanship to design completely bespoke cakes – perfect for every occasion. A feast for the eyes and a memory for the palate.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      The key elements of my role are firstly communication as I meet and engage with people on an international stage. Being able to articulate, connect, direct , understand and empathise with people is key. Secondly, organisation – this is essential working in a critical time-dependent world. Forward planning, risk assessment, hazard analysis and problem-solving is an essential part of my role and thirdly Presentation is an important aspect, for inspiring those involved with Little Venice Cake Company to embrace our brand values.

      Talk us through your daily routine.
      My days rarely follow a routine. I try to pack as much into each day as I can and am fastidious with timekeeping to avoid time wasting. My time in Dubai is limited and usually built around a particular event – such as The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee events at The British Embassy or the grand reveal of Atlantis The Royal. I always wake up three hours before my first commitment to allow time for early morning correspondence, a visit to the gym, grooming, and breakfast. I will spend time with my team in pastry working on new collections, and seasonal offerings, reviewing recipes and designs. We often have tastings, bespoke orders, presentations and photo shoots to prepare for. I also plan time with the management team to review our business performance. I have meetings and consultations with clients for upcoming events which we host in our Royal Meeting Room with cake tastings. We are just starting to offer masterclasses for corporate and private clients in our show kitchen within our atelier at Atlantis The Royal. These are customised and hugely enjoyable, but require a lot of preparation. I juggle press requests and external presentations with invitations to attend official events. I am fortunate to dine within the resort and with so many incredible restaurants to choose from such as Milos, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen and Dinner By Heston Blumenthal it is a treat and certainly one of the best perks of the job.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Prepare to work hard and insist on the highest standards for yourself. There is no fast track to experience and you can’t fake passion. Be committed.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      Do what you do really well, and no one can touch you.

      And what is the worst?
      Genuinely can’t think of anything? I have an analytical thought process – so would always work through the whole journey and possible outcomes before committing. Any advice that I couldn’t see working I would have discounted in the ether!
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I am a problem solver, always looking for a way through the maze. Every challenge can be managed with time, tenacity and self-belief.
      What are the future plans for your brand and tell us how it feels to open at Atlantis The Royal?
      I have been working with Atlantis Dubai on this project for the past six years to deliver a world-exclusive Little Venice Cake Company atelier with Everyday cakes, a Signature collection, Couture bespoke cakes, customised masterclasses and a curated collection of homewares synonymous with our ethos of authenticity, British premium craftsmanship and heritage. I have enjoyed the whole process and am enormously proud of the atelier and the teams at Little Venice Cake Company and Atlantis The Royal.
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