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      11 incredible women on optimising time and using it wisely

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      11 incredible women talk to Emirates Woman on how they optimise time and what wisdom time has brought to their lives.
      Tania Santos Silva (Founder of Lala Diamonds)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      This is a very therapeutic question. There’s so much I would like to tell the young Tania. First thing would be: you’re loved – they’re doing the best they can with what they have and know. Be more selfish and less available – definitely learn to say “No.” Finish law school instead of swapping to journalism – don’t be lazy! Do a master’s in communications after. Don’t waste so much time seeking validation or perhaps, love more, live more, be more careless and regret nothing. After all, your path led you here, Tania,you’re being featured in Emirates Woman, you’re doing great.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      This is a tricky one. Lately, I’ve been super focused on my time, family and people. I don’t waste any more time with what doesn’t suit me, nor do I adapt my time to others. The last three months have been life-changing; honestly, right now, as I answer this, I’m all about healing and journaling and using my time wisely and prioritizing. If I’m not in the mood, I won’t stay longer or go. My time is priceless. I prioritise what I have to do each week in terms of meetings – in-person or online, personal appointments and errands, laptop work, or workshop work. Of course, I always find time to see my friends, go to the gym, do leisure and work travels and so on. I also include my goals for the week, which is always there because if I don’t reach them, they pass to the following week’s schedule. I always anticipate some roadblocks on the way. The trick here is to spend your time wisely with intent. We all have different definitions of time, so the best way to have a more common meaning is to spend quality time doing what you love and with the people you love. Don’t forget your tasks – goals and responsibilities.
      Sara Rahbari (Founder Of Chic Le Frique
      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      Well, going back in time is certainly not an option. That might not necessarily be a bad thing because if we could, we might never be able to experience all the ups and downs and ride all those learning curves that life throws at us. So, my advice to my younger self would be not to worry and stress as much as I did. Keep living life and taking in all the experiences on this journey to evolve into a better human being.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I actually think time cannot be looked at as currency. Time is definitely way more precious. It is the one thing that you cannot make more of. Therefore, it is extremely important for me to organize my time during the day to find the right balance between my family, myself and my work. Although I have to admit it. That is easier said than done.
      Lama Jouni (Founder Of Fashion Label Lama Jouni)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I believe we tend to overthink and worry about the future too much but in the end, everything will happen to our own benefit.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I try to use time with balance. Meaning I like my days to be versatile and not only focused on work.
      Lindsay Doran (Founder Of Activewear Brand L’Couture)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I like to live my life with no regrets, but I would tell my younger self to trust the journey, to always believe in myself and know that things always work out the way they are supposed to. Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely? Being an entrepreneur and busy mum of three, life is always hectic. Training is a huge part of my life and a non-negotiable in my daily schedule, so my days are usually planned out meticulously to ensure I fit this in around time with my kids and time at the office. I have to really plan everything out so I can ensure I have time to fit everything in. There are never enough hours in the day but sticking to a plan really is the only way it all happens.
      Rawdha Thani (Founder Of Fashion Label Illi)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I would tell my younger self to be less critical of herself and not be as tough on herself. I feel like sometimes I was hard on myself when I was doing the best I could in many aspects, but I always felt like I needed to do more. One more thing, I wish I did not give myself deadlines for things before reaching a certain age, there is no timeline to doing things and there is no age limit to when to accomplish things.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I am guilty of planning my week ahead and logging everything into my calendar, so I hold myself accountable and because I’m very forgetful. I find this really helps me organize my time. I’m also very good at taking time off for myself when needed, especially lately which gets me very motivated and fuels me with energy.
      Caroline Receveur (Entrepreneur)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I would tell her to dare and go for what she believes in, without worrying about what other people think as long as it makes sense to her. I would tell her to always be grateful, even for the mistakes and bad encounters, because that’s the only way to learn. And most importantly, I would tell her to always trust her intuition and follow her heart.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I try to organize my time around the things and people who make me feel good, so I can nourish myself with good energies and give it back.
      Amanda Rushforth (Sustainable Content Creator)
      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I would honestly say to myself that there’s a much bigger picture to look at and that we have a lifetime to achieve our goals, enjoy being in the moment. I would also tell myself to put down my phone, worry less, travel more and ask more questions. I loved school and sports and often wish I could go back to reliving that team spirit.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I have a very clear list of priorities and my family is at the top, so I make sure that my time is always time well spent. I also make sure I carve out time for myself as our health is our greatest asset.
      Sonia Leretz (Co-Founder And Managing Partner, Revalue Consulting)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I lookback and think that when we are young, there is no escape but to live with what life throws at us because we have very little control at the time. Life back then resembles a flipper game, where we are the flipper ball. It’s part of the process to play the game, and my advice would be to take distance from reality, and grasp time to better anticipate, play the game, with the cards aligned with my aspirations.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I perceive time as a resource, as a process to be nurtured. I will not perceive time as a constraint, or something that will make me accelerate. In the contrary, I will give time to time: to better invest myself in what I do and with whom I share my time with, with the objective to always absorb the present.
      Nadine Kanso (Founder of Jewellery Brand bil Arabi)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      My advice to my younger self would be to be bolder and less shy. One should not try to change things. As I am a true believer in what is meant to be, will be. When we are young, we frequently have a fearless attitude and a willingness to take risks, which can help us achieve our goals and objectives. That is particularly why my advice to my younger self would be to be more courageous. However, as we age, we can become more hesitant and risk-averse, which can cause us to miss out on chances. I believe it is critical to nurture afearless and open mindset. That includes being willing to take calculated risks, try new things, and pursue our passions even if they appear intimidating at first. Of course, being bold does not imply being irresponsible or ignoring the dangers and drawbacks of a decision. However, it does include being willing to move outside of our comfort zones and take actions toward our goals, even if we are unsure of the outcome. Taking a chance and being brave when it counts, in my experience, leads to some of the most gratifying opportunities and experiences in life. So, my advice to everyone, young or old, is to keep an open mind, to be interested and to never be scared to take a bet on yourself and your ambitions.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      Time is life. Our whole lives are measured against time, which makes it that much more precious. Time is, in my opinion, one of the most valuable commodities we have in life. We can’t earn more time or get it back after it’s gone, unlike money. That is why it is critical to be careful of how we use our time and to ensure that we are utilizing it in ways that are consistent with our beliefs and aspirations. Time, in my opinion, is not a currency, rather it is a currency of sorts, and it’s up to each of us to decide how we want to spend it. That means being intentional about setting priorities, making time for the people and activities that matter most to us, and avoiding distractions or timewasters that don’t add value to our lives. Ultimately, I believe that time is a precious gift, that we should enjoy and make the most of. That might mean being more mindful of how we use our time, setting clearer priorities, or making changes to our daily routines and habits to better align with our goals and values. But whatever we do, it’s important to remember that time is a finite resource, and we should use it wisely.
      Sumayyah Al Suwaidi (Talented Artist)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      Believe in yourself and your capabilities, be true to yourself and throw the word fear out of the window.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I divide my time between my loved ones and work. I do my best to balance to the point that I don’t feel like I am working anymore. It is just so integrated into my life that even when I am working it feels like a normal casual day.
      Nayla Albaloushi (First Emirati Woman To Scale Mount Everest)
      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I don’t have any advice for my younger self. I have lived every stage in my life and enjoyed every single part of it. I wouldn’t change or do anything differently.
      Time is your greatest currency – How do you use your time wisely?
      I start my morning early to do Fajer prayer then choose an activity depending on the weather, and after that I go to work. During the evening time, I enjoy unwinding at home and that’s how my day ends.
      May’s – The Horology Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      12 incredible women on optimising time and using it wisely

      by

      12 incredible women talk to Emirates Woman on how they optimise time and what wisdom time has brought to their lives.
      Tania Santos Silva (Founder of Lala Diamonds)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      This is a very therapeutic question. There’s so much I would like to tell the young Tania. First thing would be: you’re loved – they’re doing the best they can with what they have and know. Be more selfish and less available – definitely learn to say “No.” Finish law school instead of swapping to journalism – don’t be lazy! Do a master’s in communications after. Don’t waste so much time seeking validation or perhaps, love more, live more, be more careless and regret nothing. After all, your path led you here, Tania,you’re being featured in Emirates Woman, you’re doing great.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      This is a tricky one. Lately, I’ve been super focused on my time, family and people. I don’t waste any more time with what doesn’t suit me, nor do I adapt my time to others. The last three months have been life-changing; honestly, right now, as I answer this, I’m all about healing and journaling and using my time wisely and prioritizing. If I’m not in the mood, I won’t stay longer or go. My time is priceless. I prioritise what I have to do each week in terms of meetings – in-person or online, personal appointments and errands, laptop work, or workshop work. Of course, I always find time to see my friends, go to the gym, do leisure and work travels and so on. I also include my goals for the week, which is always there because if I don’t reach them, they pass to the following week’s schedule. I always anticipate some roadblocks on the way. The trick here is to spend your time wisely with intent. We all have different definitions of time, so the best way to have a more common meaning is to spend quality time doing what you love and with the people you love. Don’t forget your tasks – goals and responsibilities.
      Sara Rahbari (Founder Of Chic Le Frique)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      Well, going back in time is certainly not an option. That might not necessarily be a bad thing because if we could, we might never be able to experience all the ups and downs and ride all those learning curves that life throws at us. So, my advice to my younger self would be not to worry and stress as much as I did. Keep living life and taking in all the experiences on this journey to evolve into a better human being.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I actually think time cannot be looked at as currency. Time is definitely way more precious. It is the one thing that you cannot make more of. Therefore, it is extremely important for me to organize my time during the day to find the right balance between my family, myself and my work. Although I have to admit it. That is easier said than done.
      Lama Jouni (Founder Of Fashion Label Lama Jouni)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I believe we tend to overthink and worry about the future too much but in the end, everything will happen to our own benefit.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I try to use time with balance. Meaning I like my days to be versatile and not only focused on work.
      Lindsay Doran (Founder Of Activewear Brand L’Couture)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I like to live my life with no regrets, but I would tell my younger self to trust the journey, to always believe in myself and know that things always work out the way they are supposed to. Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely? Being an entrepreneur and busy mum of three, life is always hectic. Training is a huge part of my life and a non-negotiable in my daily schedule, so my days are usually planned out meticulously to ensure I fit this in around time with my kids and time at the office. I have to really plan everything out so I can ensure I have time to fit everything in. There are never enough hours in the day but sticking to a plan really is the only way it all happens.
      Rawdha Thani (Founder Of Fashion Label Illi)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I would tell my younger self to be less critical of herself and not be as tough on herself. I feel like sometimes I was hard on myself when I was doing the best I could in many aspects, but I always felt like I needed to do more. One more thing, I wish I did not give myself deadlines for things before reaching a certain age, there is no timeline to doing things and there is no age limit to when to accomplish things.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I am guilty of planning my week ahead and logging everything into my calendar, so I hold myself accountable and because I’m very forgetful. I find this really helps me organize my time. I’m also very good at taking time off for myself when needed, especially lately which gets me very motivated and fuels me with energy.
      Caroline Receveur (Entrepreneur)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I would tell her to dare and go for what she believes in, without worrying about what other people think as long as it makes sense to her. I would tell her to always be grateful, even for the mistakes and bad encounters, because that’s the only way to learn. And most importantly, I would tell her to always trust her intuition and follow her heart.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I try to organize my time around the things and people who make me feel good, so I can nourish myself with good energies and give it back.
      Amanda Rushforth (Sustainable Content Creator)
      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I would honestly say to myself that there’s a much bigger picture to look at and that we have a lifetime to achieve our goals, enjoy being in the moment. I would also tell myself to put down my phone, worry less, travel more and ask more questions. I loved school and sports and often wish I could go back to reliving that team spirit.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I have a very clear list of priorities and my family is at the top, so I make sure that my time is always time well spent. I also make sure I carve out time for myself as our health is our greatest asset.
      Tutus Kurniati (Founder of Tutus Kurniati boutique)
      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      Don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. It’s natural to feel apprehensive about trying new things, but taking calculated risks is often necessary for personal and professional growth. When you make mistakes and you will make mistakes, don’t be too hard on yourself. This is the time to make mistakes. Instead, try to learn from them and use them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      Prioritise and invest in learning. Make a list of tasks that need to be done and prioritise them based on importance and urgency. Focus on completing the most important tasks first. Use your time to learn new skills or knowledge that will benefit you in the long run that helps to achieve your goals.
      Sonia Leretz (Co-Founder And Managing Partner, Revalue Consulting)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I lookback and think that when we are young, there is no escape but to live with what life throws at us because we have very little control at the time. Life back then resembles a flipper game, where we are the flipper ball. It’s part of the process to play the game, and my advice would be to take distance from reality, and grasp time to better anticipate, play the game, with the cards aligned with my aspirations.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I perceive time as a resource, as a process to be nurtured. I will not perceive time as a constraint, or something that will make me accelerate. In the contrary, I will give time to time: to better invest myself in what I do and with whom I share my time with, with the objective to always absorb the present.
      Nadine Kanso (Founder of Jewellery Brand bil Arabi)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      My advice to my younger self would be to be bolder and less shy. One should not try to change things. As I am a true believer in what is meant to be, will be. When we are young, we frequently have a fearless attitude and a willingness to take risks, which can help us achieve our goals and objectives. That is particularly why my advice to my younger self would be to be more courageous. However, as we age, we can become more hesitant and risk-averse, which can cause us to miss out on chances. I believe it is critical to nurture afearless and open mindset. That includes being willing to take calculated risks, try new things, and pursue our passions even if they appear intimidating at first. Of course, being bold does not imply being irresponsible or ignoring the dangers and drawbacks of a decision. However, it does include being willing to move outside of our comfort zones and take actions toward our goals, even if we are unsure of the outcome. Taking a chance and being brave when it counts, in my experience, leads to some of the most gratifying opportunities and experiences in life. So, my advice to everyone, young or old, is to keep an open mind, to be interested and to never be scared to take a bet on yourself and your ambitions.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      Time is life. Our whole lives are measured against time, which makes it that much more precious. Time is, in my opinion, one of the most valuable commodities we have in life. We can’t earn more time or get it back after it’s gone, unlike money. That is why it is critical to be careful of how we use our time and to ensure that we are utilizing it in ways that are consistent with our beliefs and aspirations. Time, in my opinion, is not a currency, rather it is a currency of sorts, and it’s up to each of us to decide how we want to spend it. That means being intentional about setting priorities, making time for the people and activities that matter most to us, and avoiding distractions or timewasters that don’t add value to our lives. Ultimately, I believe that time is a precious gift, that we should enjoy and make the most of. That might mean being more mindful of how we use our time, setting clearer priorities, or making changes to our daily routines and habits to better align with our goals and values. But whatever we do, it’s important to remember that time is a finite resource, and we should use it wisely.
      Sumayyah Al Suwaidi (Talented Artist)

      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      Believe in yourself and your capabilities, be true to yourself and throw the word fear out of the window.
      Time is your greatest currency – how do you use your time wisely?
      I divide my time between my loved ones and work. I do my best to balance to the point that I don’t feel like I am working anymore. It is just so integrated into my life that even when I am working it feels like a normal casual day.
      Nayla Albaloushi (First Emirati Woman To Scale Mount Everest)
      If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
      I don’t have any advice for my younger self. I have lived every stage in my life and enjoyed every single part of it. I wouldn’t change or do anything differently.
      Time is your greatest currency – How do you use your time wisely?
      I start my morning early to do Fajer prayer then choose an activity depending on the weather, and after that I go to work. During the evening time, I enjoy unwinding at home and that’s how my day ends.
      May’s – The Horology Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      6 Inspiring women on empowerment and elevating above challenges

      by

      IN PARTNERSHIP:  Emirates Woman talks to 5 trailblazing women featured in Mastercard’s Lasting Legacy Book—along with Beatrice Cornacchia, Senior VP of Marketing and Communications at Mastercard (one of the conceptualizing brains behind the book), about empowering women and rising above challenges. 
      Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emir ates Nature-WWF

      On empowerment….
      Women in the UAE represent a broad field of industries and have proudly earned top roles as business leaders, academics, scientists, researchers and executives, serving as role models for the next generations of successful women. Emirates Nature-WWF fosters an environment of inclusivity, empathy and compassion. We create a safe-space which encourages female change-makers to dream big and embrace risks, empowering them to create bold solutions to the complex environmental challenges we face today.
      On elevating above challenges…
      We will always come across challenges in life, this is the way we grow as individuals and professionals. I have learned to fail mindfully; to maintain a positive outlook and approach each challenge as a learning opportunity: a stepping stone towards overcoming larger obstacles in the future.  It certainly helps that I am driven forward by a larger purpose, to build a nature-positive world in which people live in harmony with nature.
      Raha Moharrak, Adventurer

      On empowerment….
      Empowering women and breaking down barriers for them is something that I am absolutely passionate about! I truly believe that leading by example and pursuing my own goals, I can inspire other women to do the same. I make it a priority to help women who are interested in pursuing their own goals, whether that be in mountaineering or any other area. Seeing women achieve great things is just amazing, and I always make sure to celebrate their successes and show them how much they are valued and appreciated. Creating opportunities for women to pursue their passions and achieve their goals is also incredibly important to me. Whether that be through organizing events or providing resources, I will do whatever it takes to help women succeed. To me, empowering women is not just about helping them achieve their own goals, but also about creating a more equal and just society for all. By working together and supporting each other, women can make a real difference in the lives of those around them, and that is what truly motivates me!
      On elevating above challenges…
      Whenever I face a difficult situation in my life, I try to stay positive and maintain a growth mindset. I remind myself that this challenge is just a temporary setback, and that I have the strength and resilience to overcome it. I also try to focus on the things that I can control, rather than dwelling on the things that are outside of my control. This helps me to stay motivated and take action towards finding solutions. Additionally, I always make sure to reach out for support and help when I need it. Whether it’s from family, friends, or professionals, having a support system can make all the difference. Finally, I always try to maintain a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the good things in my life, even in the midst of difficult times. By keeping a positive attitude and a growth mindset, I am able to elevate myself above the challenges in my life and come out even stronger on the other side.
      Natasha Sideris, Founder & CE O of Tashas Group

      On empowerment….
      I am so grateful to have witnessed so many of our female team members thrive and flourish within Tashas Group. I hope that I empower women around me by assuring that I listen as well as making sure that they feel heard. I also feel that I give our team members a sense of creative freedom as well as the liberty to come to the right solutions in a way that I might not. On top of this, I feel that training and upskilling is key to empowering anyone to be able to succeed. We, as women, tend to be more emotional and intuitive than men and I embrace these qualities.
      On elevating above challenges…
      I have learned that while stress can be very motivating it can also be debilitating. By taking care of myself – focussing on what I eat, sticking to my exercise routine and making time for friends and family – I am able to remain centred and resilient to take on the challenges of a demanding work life.
      Zainab Al-Eqabi, Para-Athlete

      On empowerment….
      By listening to them, boosting their self-confidence when needed, sharing experiences and skills that empowers them, encouraging them to study and be very well-educated, involve them in decision-making, be there for eachother and celebrate each other’s wins and success….
      On elevating above challenges…
      Take it step by step. Don’t think “Oh, I wish I didn’t do that, or If I only had it done this way”, focus on the present and on things that can be done now, don’t think of the past. I give myself the chance to feel down when needed, but only for a certain period of time, then it is time to move on and take good action to feel good. Self-care, self-love acts. Seek for support or advice when needed. You are never alone. Challenges find you, only because you are truly able to handle them. Seek the power within you, it is there. You are able to overcome it and grow-out of it nicely. You will learn and become stronger when this challenge is over. Develop and practice a mindset, “life is a journey. enjoy every step of it, no matter how harsh it gets. eventually it will be great!”. Look into the bigger picture. Think big and positive.
      Her Excellency, Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr, Global Digital Magnate, Vice Chairwoman of Emaar Development Board & Former Founding Director General Of Smart Dubai

      On empowerment….
      Empowering women in the workplace is not something extraordinary that only female leaders should do, but it is a fundamental responsibility of any leader. As the founding former director of Smart Dubai, I firmly believe in building partnerships with my team and community, and creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and encourages everyone to contribute their unique skills and perspectives. During my tenure at Smart Dubai, I had the privilege of working with a brilliant and talented team, and I was delighted to see that the majority of them were women. This was not a planned outcome, but rather a result of the exceptional women we have in the region who have the skills and expertise to lead in their respective fields.
      I am proud to say that many of the strategic agendas of Smart Dubai were run by women during my time there, and I have personally witnessed the significant contributions that women make in leadership positions. As a leader, I believe it is our responsibility to recognize and harness the talents of all individuals in our organizations, regardless of their gender or background. By empowering women and promoting gender equality, we not only create a more inclusive and supportive workplace but also drive innovation and growth.
      On elevating above challenges…
      I strongly believe that challenges are opportunities for growth and development, and that resilience and persistence are essential for overcoming them. Throughout my career, I have faced numerous obstacles, but I have never allowed them to hold me back. Instead, I approach every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.
      To overcome these challenges, I have focused on cultivating a clear vision and purpose for myself, and taking calculated risks. I understand that failure is part of the journey towards success, and I embrace it as an opportunity to learn and improve. I have also surrounded myself with a supportive network of family, friends, and colleagues who have been instrumental in helping me overcome obstacles.
      My message to others facing challenges is to never give up, and to stay true to your values and beliefs. You must be willing to learn, grow, and evolve in order to overcome obstacles and achieve success. With persistence, determination, and a clear vision, you can overcome any challenge that comes your way.
      Beatrice Cornacchia, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Mastercard Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa.

      On empowerment….
      As leaders, it is our responsibility to empower people, both in our organizations and the communities we serve. Personally, this is also the most rewarding part of my role, where I lead Marketing and Communications for Mastercard across the EEMEA region. Our team consists of more than 50 talented individuals across the region, and I strive to ensure that everyone has equal opportunities for growth and development. I make it a point to extend mentorship opportunities and support to everyone, helping them to overcome obstacles and achieve their professional goals, while celebrating their strengths and accomplishments. 
      Beyond the walls of Mastercard, I am proud of the work we are doing as a company and as a Marketing and Communications function. As part of our efforts to unlock the full potential of the female economy, we at Mastercard work proactively to drive a more equitable future for everyone as we enable communities, celebrate diversity, and elevate the voices of women leading change.
      In Saudi Arabia, we launched the ‘Her Voice’ podcast series, giving a voice to inspiring stories by women entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia and across the region. The series featured six episodes, each with a distinct theme embodying the qualities of high-achieving women, chronicling the story of each female guest in her own voice, during a conversation with host Raha Moharrak, the youngest Arab and first Saudi woman to climb Mount Everest and the Seven Summits.
      We also launched our Girls4Tech program to shape the thinking and development of the next generation of technology leaders. In the region, we joined forces with Expo 2020 Dubai to introduce the program and have further expanded to roll out the curriculum in markets like Morocco and Saudi Arabia, and new languages including Arabic and French. Globally, we are more than halfway to achieving our goal of reaching 5 million girls by 2025.
      More recently, and to mark a milestone anniversary of our Priceless platform, which has been connecting people to their passions for a quarter of a century, we partnered with Motivate Publishing to launch the coffee table book Lasting Legacy – Honoring 25 Visionaries to Celebrate 25 Years of Priceless. The publication highlights the journeys and achievements of some of the world’s most renowned female trailblazers in sports, politics, science, technology, financial services, and beyond.
      I believe that empowering women is crucial for creating a more equitable society. Women have the potential to be leaders, innovators, and agents of change, but they often face historic barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. By providing women with the tools and resources they need to succeed, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future for everyone. 
      On elevating above challenges…
      Elevating oneself above life’s challenges can be daunting at times, but it’s possible when you have the right mindset and approach. However, it’s also essential to recognize the power of collaboration and championing the success of those around you. When we work together, we become stronger as a team, and can make a difference in our own lives and the lives of those around us. It’s also important to seize opportunities when things are difficult, as it is often in those moments that we can demonstrate our resilience and overcome adversity. 
      Mastercard’s Lasting Legacy book is available to order from Booksarabia
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Mastercard introduces Lasting Legacy Book celebrating 25 Trailblazing Women

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      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      Inspirational stories of women who are artists, scientists, political figures, entrepreneurs and businesswomen from across the globe have been featured in the new Mastercard Lasting Legacy book.
      Shedding light on the journeys of some of the world’s most inspiring female leaders in arts, sports, politics, hospitality, financial services and beyond – Mastercard’s coffee-table book honours 25 powerful women to Celebrate 25 Years of Priceless. Unveiled during women’s month 2023, the book times perfectly with the 25th anniversary of Mastercard’s renowned Priceless platform, which has been helping people to connect people with their passions for a quarter of a century.

      Mastercard Lasting Legacy Book
      Mastercard aims at creating a more equitable world for all – this particular project is all about celebrating the role of women in society and arming them with equal opportunities. By recognising the efforts of all these influential women, the idea behind the book is to inspire readers to take charge of their own lives and communities. The aim is to lessen the gender gap and generate an environment that is more inclusive.
      Amongst the prestigious names featured in this book, here are a notable few – Her Excellency Dr. Aisha Bint Butti Bin Bishr, Global Digital Magnate, Vice Chairwoman of Emaar Development Board & Former Founding Director General of Smart Dubai; Nona Gaprindashvili, Chess Legend; Sarah Baydoun, Founder and Creative Director of Sarah’s Bag; Dr. Maya Morsy, President, Egypt’s National Council for Women and adventurer Raha Moharrak.
      “This book has been a true labor of love for us, and a testament to the women who are driving progress and uplifting communities around the world. It is our hope that the stories in ‘Lasting Legacy’ will encourage readers, regardless of their gender, to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on society, to inspire generations to come,” shared. Beatrice Cornacchia, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard.
      The book will be available from 14 March 2023, and be available online, across libraries, universities, schools, and on BooksArabia.com.
      For more information and to read the full interviews, visit here. More

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      Syria-born Nadia Kahf becomes the second hijabi judge in the U.S superior court

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      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      4 hours ago

      Nadia Kahf, a hijabi attorney from Wayne, took her oath with her hand on a copy of the Qur’an when she was sworn in at the Passaic County Courthouse, in New Jersey.
      This is a big win for Muslim women, who are constantly reprimanded for openly practicing their faith. Having a hijabi women at a prominent position in the U.S court of law is positive step in the right direction.
      “I am proud to represent the Muslim and Arab communities in New Jersey in the US, I want the younger generation to see that they can practice their religion without fear that they can be who they are. Diversity is our strength, it is not our weakness,” Nadia expressed during the ceremony.

      American attorney Nadia Kahf, appointed to the Supreme Court of the state of New Jersey, became the first hijab-wearing judge on the bench.
      She took the oath of office with her hand on the Quran pic.twitter.com/LyNoYwjga8
      — TRT World (@trtworld) March 23, 2023

      Nadia immigrated to America from Syria when she was 2-years-old. Ever since 2003, the hijab-wearing lawyer has been a member of the board of directors for the New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, an Islamic civil rights organization where she now serves as chair of the board. She is also the president of the Islamic Center of Passaic County, one of the state’s largest mosques and the legal counsel for Wafa House, a nonprofit domestic violence and social service agency based in Clifton.
      Before her, Judge Charlene Elder from Lebanon was the first-ever hijab-wearing judge in The United States. She claimed seat on Wayne County Circuit Court in 2005, in Michigan.
      The Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, nominated Nadia last year. In order to advance her nomination—community leaders, mayors, council members, school board members and leaders of the New Jersey Muslim Lawyers Association signed a letter and also recieved the support of over 700 people through an online petition.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram More

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      Meet the female Emirati sporting pioneers of the UAE

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      Meet Sara Al Shamsi and Maha Al Balooshi – the new stars of Al Ain Womenʼs FC First Team. Leading the line for the womenʼs game in the UAE, both players recently came together for a photo shoot to launch this seasonʼs official new Nike kit. Stars on and off the pitch, the pair are planning on kicking off the season in style.
      The women’s team has been a key supporter of women’s sports in the UAE following its launch in 2019, creating the Al Ain Sports Girls Training Centres with delegates from the UAE Football Association and the Womenʼs Football Committee. This year the team was also on hand to lend support to the UAE’s silver medal-winning team in the Special Olympics in Michigan.
      Inspiring generations of football stars to come, Al Balooshi and Al Shamsi share with Emirates Woman how they got into the sport, their inspirations and their dreams for the future.
      Maha Al Balooshi

      What position do you play?
      Goalkeeper.
      What is your playing record?
      I have participated in several friendly matches with the national team and official tournaments, including West Asia and friendly matches against the Maldives, Syria, Seychelles, India, Bahrain, Iraq and many other countries.
      Can you outline your main accomplishments throughout your career so far?

      With the UAE national team, we won gold and silver in the Abu Dhabi World Games 2019 which was a real highlight
      I was also named best goalkeeper in Al Ain Championship with first place in 2020 season.
      In 2022, we won the silver in the Special Olympics in the Detroit World Cup.

      Where did you train?
      I started my career at the Abu Dhabi club, where I was called up for the UAE under-19 team and it was the beginning of my establishment as a national goalkeeper.
      Who are your main inspirations?
      Houria Al-Tahri is the force in the world of football and has been one of the main factors in building women’s football in the UAE, which it seeks to develop day after day. She has also been one of the biggest supporters in my sports career.
      What are your goals for this season?
      It will be an exciting season for me, and I will strive to show my best level to protect my net and defend the Al Ain logo.
      What are your hopes for the future of football in the UAE?
      The dream of my life is to see women’s football developed in the Gulf, especially in the UAE, and for all professional clubs to open a women’s team to develop women’s football in the UAE.
      Sara Al Shamsi

      What position do you play?
      Central Defender.
      What is your playing record?
      I’ve played in a few friendly tournaments organised by Al Ain FC but our first official season was the real start and we achieved second place that year.
      I’ve also played in the Al Ain Club Championship with the participation of teams from Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain, and we won first place in it. I am also a player in the UAE national team.
      Can you outline your main accomplishments throughout your career so far?
      Collective prizes with the team when we get the first places in the tournaments, being central defender position it is difficult to obtain individual prizes, usually those who receive individual prizes are either attacking (scorer) or goalkeeper. I participated in Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s championship in jiu-jitsu and I won the gold medal in the first tournament. The training took about two months and I was very proud of that achievement. After that, I decided to focus more on team sports like basketball, volleyball, and football, and I also participated in handball tournaments.
      Where did you train?
      I’ve always been sporty, running daily while at school. As I grew older, I started getting very interested in football and basketball, and I continued this passion to the university level, and after graduating from university, I joined Al Ain Club.
      Who are your main inspirations?
      In terms of women, Alexa Botías is a Spanish midfielder in the Barcelona team and is considered the best football player in the world. I love learning skills from her, and I always watch her matches. I really hope in the future to reach her level and more.
      What are your goals for this season?
      Getting first place in the upcoming tournaments, according to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan when he said, “The second is the same as the last.” What my team and I aspire to is that we will not be in second place again and we will not accept it.
      The new Al Ain FC 2022/23 home and away kits are available from the following locations:
      Al Ain Fan Store – Online Shop: shop.alainclub.ae; Nike Store – Al Ain Mall: alainmall.net/shop-listing/nike/; and Nike Store – Dubai Mall: thedubaimall.com/en/shop/nike-town. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Watch: Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum breaks a huge record for women everywhere

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      1 minute ago

      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is no stranger to breaking records in the UAE, having become the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot back in 2019.
      Now, the Dubai royal has broken another record in the world of aviation, becoming the first female to pilot the AW609 tiltrotor, an air vehicle which combines the operational versatility of a helicopter and the performance of an aeroplane.
      Her Highness piloted the groundbreaking aircraft at the US helicopter headquarters of Leonardo, a global high-tech player in Aerospace, Defence and Security, located in Philadelphia.

      Mozah bint Marwan becomes first woman to pilot AW609 tiltrotor.#WamNews pic.twitter.com/6sBIrnYyGq
      — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) May 30, 2022

      Discussing her record-breaking experience, the former Emirates Woman cover star shared her pride at being able to reach a milestone further shattering “another glass ceiling for women”.
      “I’m thrilled to be the first female pilot to test this revolutionary aircraft,” she said in a statement per the Dubai Media Office. “It was not only a personal milestone but an opportunity to shatter another glass ceiling for women.
      ALSO READ: 6 of Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum’s best ‘on duty’ moments
      “I always push myself beyond my limits to prove that if I can do it, it is also within the reach of anyone else who is determined enough to try.”
      She described the experience of piloting the AW609 tiltrotor as a “natural evolution of my piloting experience”, combining her experience as an Emirates commercial pilot and helicopter pilot for Dubai Police.

      “Aircrafts like the AW609 tiltrotor makes me feel really excited about the future of aviation, a future now open to more women who chose this industry,” she added.
      The innovative aircraft is a trailblazer in the aircraft space combining the take-off and landing vertically of the helicopter with the pressurised cabin, speed, altitude and endurance abilities of an aeroplane.
      Her Highness became the first Emirati royal to qualify as a commercial pilot for Emirates Airlines in 2016 and became the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot in 2019.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images/Media: Sheikha Mozah Instagram/WAM More

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      Meet the first Emirati woman to climb Mount Everest

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 minute ago

      Emirati women are continuing to break the mould and pave the way for future generations.
      Nayla Nasir from the UAE is a perfect example of this having recently become the first Emirati woman to climb Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain.
      The Emirati-Uruguayan climber reached the astonishing height of 8,848.8 metres on May 14, 2022, officially making history in the UAE.
      After one week of harrowing human endurance, the Emirati mountaineer made it to the summit of the world’s tallest mountain.
      Upon reaching she hoisted the UAE’s flag and made the country proud, climbing her way into the history books.

      Conducted by Nepalese mountaineer, Chhang Dawa Sherpa of Seven Summit Treks, the expedition was completed sooner than expected due to the favourable weather conditions, according to the Seven Summit Treks Instagram.
      It’s not the first mountain Nasir has summited. She has previously climbed Turkey’s Mount Ararat at 5,140 metres and made it to the Summit of Cameroon at 4,090 meters high, hoisting the UAE’s flags on different summits.
      Besides mountaineering, Nasir is a multi-talented athlete being a scuba divemaster, free diver and horse rider.

      Nasir summited Mount Everest two days before Dubai-based athlete and former Emirates Woman cover star Manal Rostom became the first Egyptian woman to reach the top of the world’s tallest mountain. She marked the history-making moment on Instagram with a video of her “on top of the world”, fulfilling a long-time ambition of hers.
      Kudos to these inspiring women who are on a mission to empower women through the world of mountaineering.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @sevensummittreks More