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    How I got my job as… founder of a Dubai-based digital and influencer marketing agency

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    Emirates Man

    by Camille Macawili
    15 seconds ago

    This week, Emirates Man speaks to Hady Chamseddine, founder of Hack The Agency. Prior to establishing the agency in September 2024, Hady, with a background in Petroleum Engineering, started off working in the field for a year before eventually making the shift into PR and marketing, where he amassed an impressive experience managing communications for global brands such as Rimowa and Louboutin as well as overseeing social media, content creation and influencer marketing for luxury hospitality brands.
    Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to incredible entrepreneurs, and businessmen 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.
    Here, the Hack The Agency founder shares with Emirates Man his early journey in the field, how he pivoted his career, the challenges and achievements of launching a business, his future business goals for 2025, and everything in between.

    What was your favourite subject at school?

    I’ve always been drawn to Chemistry. I found the subject stimulating and fascinating. Looking back, the one thing I took away from those courses is how to build chemistry, but not the kind you study in class. In my career, it’s all about building chemistry between brands, teams, and audiences.

    What was your first job?

    My first job was with BB Energy, where I worked on a nation-wide project to introduce natural gas-based power generation in Lebanon. I joined a contracted consulting firm to help define the specifications for the floating storage unit that would be moored offshore. It was a solid introduction to working on large-scale projects and learning the ropes of professional collaboration.

    What eventually brought you to Dubai?

    I studied in the UK, where I spent five years earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Petroleum Engineering. After graduating, I knew that Dubai was the city where I would feel most at home—its culture and energy were the closest to my roots. Add to that the fact that Dubai is now a global benchmark for media and innovation, a land of opportunities, and I felt it was the perfect place to pursue my passions.

    What inspired you to enter the communications and digital marketing space and launch Hack The Agency?

    I’ve always had a passion for the media industry, and at 18, I was already freelancing for a rising Lebanese singer, managing her brand identity, social media, PR, and events. Over time, I realized that marketing was my true calling. However, growing up in an Arab family, I was encouraged to follow more traditional career paths—engineering, law, or medicine. I do not regret studying engineering, I’m actually very proud of it, as the skills I developed have shaped my strategic thinking today. Hack The Agency, which I launched in September 2024, brings together my experience in digital marketing and my passion for communications.

    As a founder, what are the key elements of your role?

    As the founder, I wear many hats, but the key elements of my role revolve around strategy, team leadership, and client relationships. I also focus on business development, creative direction, influencer management, and ensuring that the agency consistently delivers impactful results for our clients.

    Talk us through your daily routine.

    I truly believe that how you start your day sets the tone for everything that follows. That’s why I make sure to kick off every morning with a positive mindset, telling myself, “Today’s going to be a good day.” For those who know me well, they’ll tell you that I carve out a full hour every morning just for myself. I spend that time playing my favourite songs and dancing around (yes, really!). It’s my little ritual to get energised and in a positive mindset.

    After that, I make sure to do some cardio and a quick swim before jumping into work. By 9:30 AM, I’m with the team, reviewing the day’s plan, aligning tasks, and ensuring everything is on track. Then, I dive into client updates, checking on progress and making sure everything is moving smoothly. The rest of my day revolves around business development, working on creative mood boards, and spending the majority of my time communicating with clients and talents to keep things moving forward. After 6PM, If I’m not attending a social event, it’s all about self-care — simply doing things that make me feel good. It’s important to stay balanced, as taking care of myself helps me bring my best to work every day.

    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?

    My advice is simple: Follow your passion, but be patient. The journey is never a straight line, and you’ll encounter many challenges, but that’s where the growth happens. Learn as much as you can from every experience, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Most importantly, build strong relationships with the people you work with—your team, clients, and collaborators. They are the foundation of your success.

    Tell us more about the services offered at Hack The Agency.

    At Hack The Agency, we offer a full suite of services that are essential for today’s digital landscape. Our main services include social media management, content creation, online communications, and influencer marketing. We provide end-to-end digital strategies designed to help brands reach and engage their audiences in meaningful ways, with a particular focus on influencer collaborations. Our goal is to make sure that all elements of a brand’s digital presence work together seamlessly to achieve maximum impact. One of my core values is ensuring that our clients feel like we are an extended part of their team. I want our team to become the client’s brand, never the other way around. It’s about building that connection and working collaboratively to help the brand grow and succeed without limiting ourselves to the scope of work contracted.

    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

    The best advice I’ve ever received was, “Do what you love.” Now, I truly believe that success comes when you’re passionate about what you do. Looking back at my time as a petroleum engineer, I dreaded waking up in the morning. Fast forward to today, and I go to bed excited for the next day, eager to dive into work because I love what I do.  It’s a powerful reminder that when you align your passion with your career, the journey becomes just as fulfilling as the destination.

    And what is the worst?

    The worst advice I ever received was, “Stick to what you know.” While it’s important to hone your expertise, I believe in stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new challenges. Growth happens when you take risks and try new things.

    What has been the biggest challenge as a founder you had to overcome in setting up this new venture?

    The biggest challenge has been balancing the transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship. It’s a huge shift in mindset and responsibility. As a founder, you are not only thinking about the big picture but also involved in every little detail. The pressure is real, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Learning to manage multiple roles while building the agency’s foundation is tough. I’m embracing it as part of the process.

    What are your goals for the future?

    By 2025, I envision expanding our client portfolio. My focus will always be on ensuring that I remain closely involved in each client’s day-to-day activities. My goal as a founder is to stay niche with a limited number of clients. Making sure each one receives the time, attention, and tailored strategies they deserve. I want Hack The Agency to be known for its hands-on approach, where every client is “hacked” daily with personalised service, ensuring our strategies’ success in such a competitive market.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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      CEO of Cymbiotika ME on what it takes to drive success in the global supplement market

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      The CEO of Cymbiotika Middle East, Borna Bandari, discusses expanding in a new market and what it takes to drive success in the global supplement market.
      What does the first 30 minutes of you day look like, your morning routine?
      First thing I do is make my bed and go straight to my kitchen for a cup of salt water to rehydrate. I check emails and messages while I drink my salt water, then take Cymbiotika NMN, Molecular Hydrogen and Glutathione at roughly the same time. I wait as long as I possibly can before preparing my Turkish coffee, which is still non-negotiable. I work very closely with the team in California (who are 11 hours behind), so I often wake up to a considerable number of emails and messages that require attention first thing in the morning. I’d like to incorporate more journaling and meditation into my morning routine.
      What was the vision from the outset for Cymbiotika Middle East and why was the Middle East the next key market for the brand after the US?
      Expanding to the Middle East, and particularly starting in the UAE, all happened very organically. Like most things Cymbiotika, it was driven by passion rather than purely a business decision. I was here on a vacation in 2021, and I saw how fast the wellness space was growing. What I saw in Dubai was unlike any health movement I had seen anywhere else in the world. I called Shahab Elmi, a close friend and also CEO of Cymbiotika USA, and told him he should consider expanding to the UAE, knowing they had just launched in Canada and the UK. I was still working as a litigation attorney, so the thought of me getting involved didn’t even cross my mind. I just loved the brand and everything they were doing as a unit. Shahab gave me one of his famous pep-talks, and next thing you know I am on a one-way flight to move to Dubai and launch Cymbiotika Middle East.

      “Cymbiotika customers trust us, there is no greater honour than to show up for people’s health – and we take that very seriously”

      What is the DNA of Cymbiotika?
      As my other business partner, and also close friend Chervin Jafarieh always says, “How you do anything is how you do everything.” We go out of our way to formulate only the most cutting-edge products. Each formulation is thoroughly researched, and we select compounds that fully potentiate each other. Hence the name Cymbiotika. We don’t create any basic products, and we are constantly changing and updating formulas as we deem necessary. Cymbiotika customers trust us, there is no greater honour than to show up for people’s health – and we take that very seriously.

      How did you know it was the right time to launch in the Middle East?
      We recognised Dubai as being a rapidly expanding and progressive market. The ability to combine foresight and forward thinking while building stable momentum for business has drawn not only those wanting to expand their brands globally but also provided a city that a wide demographic of nationalities want to call home. This means we are able to scale across these demographics as a brand through one hub of connection and commerce.
      You have known the founders since childhood – what benefits has this brought to the business?
      I have always worked with close friends, in all my businesses. I have known the founders of Cymbiotika for decades and it has proven to be an invaluable benefit because of the trust and solidarity we have with each other. While we are scaling a business, it is still just a group of friends doing what we love, together. We are having fun while doing something very special. We trust each other where we each excel, and this drives the business forward at a faster pace. I also know the depth of wisdom that Shahab, Durana and Chervin bring to the table, whether in the business or wellness arenas, so that gives me a lot of confidence out here. Our entire team is remarkable – from marketing to legal to fulfilment – and they all help make the magic happen.
      How do you approach sourcing optimal ingredients and has this been a challenge as the brand has scaled?
      We have secured sustainable and strong relationships with the best farmers, extractors and every single outlet of raw material suppliers globally. Our D3, K2, reduced glutathione, fermented vitamin C, phosphatidylcholine, Icelandic Astaxanthin, and countless other compounds, all come at the highest grade available. As far as the challenge as the brand scales, it is surprisingly the opposite. We are able to look one or two years ahead and allocate materials because of our growth and yearly projections. This helps keep us ahead of any supply issues. There is a mutual respect between us and our suppliers of raw materials. It is a true partnership.
      What has been the most effective marketing that has delivered sales and how do you see social media impacting this?
      I think word of mouth has been our driving force. We have really been blessed with growing the most incredible community, and the customers who rave about us to their friends and family, truly understand who we are, and what we are creating. When you have an optimal product, it speaks for itself and to date we have not had to invest considerably in marketing for the Middle East as the traction we have gained has all been organic, consistent YOY growth. Customer service and the client is always at the centre of what we do as a brand and this level of customer satisfaction alongside delivering the highest-grade product on the market is where the alchemy is. Social media is undoubtedly a key factor in today’s business world, but again we have been lucky that many of the social media personalities love our brand and often reach out to us. Our main focus with social media is to keep it real.

      “Cymbiotika is trailblazing the much-needed evolution in the supplement world, breaking through old barriers and plateaus. Designing and creating tier one grade bio-ceuticals”

      Dubai is a very competitive market, especially in the wellness space. Do you find that challenging?
      No, I am actually a fan of many of our counterparts in this space. I think they help draw more attention to wellness and we all thrive in the long run. Cymbiotika is trailblazing the much-needed evolution in the supplement world, breaking through old barriers and plateaus. Designing and creating tier one grade Bio-Ceuticals Formulas with intention and purpose. We don’t want to compete with anyone, we want to inspire and help raise the industry standards. We are talking about people’s health. From our perspective, nothing is more important.
      What has been the biggest reward?
      Without question, the people I have met. Representing a brand in the wellness space like Cymbiotika has been an incredible way to connect with so many remarkable individuals. In just a few years I have amassed friends who have really become family, and I wouldn’t trade that for any other reward.
      Which products have you seen the region adopt quickly as part of their daily wellness tools?
      Our entire range does well here, but one which stands out would have to be Glutathione. Also, because Dubai is such a fitness-hub, our advanced electrolyte formula is very popular with athletes. Our Liposomal B12+B6 is a crowd favourite, so is our Liposomal D3+K2+CoQ10. Our formulas taste amazing, plain and simple. We have a unique offering, we create state-of-the-art liposomal formulas that are food-based, have no added fillers, no toxic preservative systems, and only organic flavour extracts.

      Who has inspired you in terms of business and life and why?
      There are too many people to name, but I would have to put my parents at the top of my list. I grew up in an entrepreneurial household. My dad quit his job when I was in second grade to start his own business. From a young age, I was involved in every project he had, whether it be a dry cleaner or real estate. We discussed every move we would make. In fact, we still do the same today. His relentless pursuit and perseverance rubbed off on me and is now deeply embedded in my DNA. My mom imparted many other ways of life on me. She is the type to forgive and help her worst enemy. I learned compassion, empathy and how to balance the mind and heart. As an entrepreneur, these attributes can help you become a great leader.
      What daily practices do you undertake to ensure you stay in your best energy?
      I workout at the gym everyday with my trainer. If I miss a day of working out, I can feel it in my mind and body. Also, preparing all my own meals and making sure I am consistent with my supplements. I feel that if you are properly taking care of your body, everything else will naturally follow, i.e. business, relationships, family, etc.
      What are your three non-negotiable Cymbiotika products everyone should be using?
      I really think we should start with the basics before discussing supplements. First and foremost, how is the quality of your water? The water you drink, the water you shower with. Drinking salt water is a highly underrated medicine. Getting enough sunlight in your eyes during the day, preferably early in the day. Making sure you are eating wholesome nutritious meals consistently throughout the day. Once you cover the basics, then you can move on to supplementation. Some of my non-negotiables would include Glutathione and molecular hydrogen in the morning for detoxification. Apple cider vinegar before my meals, and probiotics at night to assist with gut health. These work well with my body, but everybody is different, so you need to go down your own wellness journey to figure it out.
      What is the most precious piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
      My uncle once told me to keep my life simple. At the time I didn’t think much of it, but a decade later I can say it is one of the best pieces of advice I have ever received.
      Emirates Man The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
      Photography: Ahmed Abdelwahab More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      11 inspiring women from the UAE making a big impact globally

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Women from the UAE are consistently making exceptional contributions to society, inspiring us all daily. The UAE is full of inspiring women making a big impact globally.
      Their invaluable role in modern society is not to be underestimated as we constantly learn from them.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

      Our cover star of November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’, Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is inspiring the new generation of incredible women have risen to great heights in the aviation industry.
      “I’m most proud of becoming the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot,” she told EW of her proudest moment. “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it.”
      Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum

      As a truly powerful and inspirational figure, Her Highness – who graced the cover of EW’s September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – knows exactly how to keep her mind in champion mode. Sheikha Latifah has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. She’s an equestrian athlete who competed in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, becoming the first woman to represent the UAE at the Olympic games.
      Her Excellency Dr Maryam Matar

      Having had the dream and desire to serve in the medical field since she was young, Her Excellency Dr Maryam Mohamed Fatima Matar MD, Ph.D. has become a pioneer and a visionary in the healthcare space in the UAE.
      Not only is Her Excellency a pioneer in the medical space, but she is also a role model for many women in the UAE seeking to succeed, whether that be in healthcare or other industries. Additionally, she’s able to facilitate change, paving the way for other women and girls in the region.
      Captain Salma Al Baloushi

      As the first Emirati female to rise to First Officer’s rank at Etihad Airways, Captain Salma has had a long sparked interest in aviation while also completing her higher education in Aviation Management, forming the face of the modern woman in the UAE as it has taken years of hard work and dedication.
      Amna Al Haddad

      Amna al Haddad has defied stereotypes by becoming a positive figurehead for women in the region. As an Olympic weightlifter and also by being the first Emirati and GCC national to compete in Asia’s regionals, she later on also became a part of Nike’s latest campaign on inner strength, as she continues to push herself to the limit.
      Nayla Al Khaja

      She is the first female film director-producer in the UAE, while also being the CEO of Nayla Al Khaja films. Having directed several movies, they have been presented with awards at various international film festivals as she is also very active in the TV commercials domain, while also constantly directing for various international brands.
      Asma Hilal Lootah

      As the founder of the Hundred Wellness Centre, Asma Hilal Lootah is paving the way in the wellness space in the UAE. The Hundred is the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre, which opened in 2008, and now champions wellness in the mind, body and soul for all around the UAE.
      Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi

      Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi is the first UAE female aircraft engineer. With a degree in aviation management and in aerospace engineering, Dr Al Shamsi has reached great heights, inspiring the younger generations of the future.
      Fatima Al Qubaisi

      Fatima Al Qubaisi is the first Emirati woman to graduate from Harvard Law School. She is now a fully qualified lawyer practising in the UAE and continues to champion and advocate for fellow females in this country.
      Zahra Lahri

      Known as UAE’s first female professional figure skater to compete in a hijab while also being titled as the ‘Ice Princess of the UAE’. With her growing prominence in the sport, she has defied all odds and broken down barriers to inspire generations of athletes to chase their dreams.
      Amna Al Qubaisi

      Known as the first Emirati female racing driver, especially as she’s no stranger to breaking new ground in motorsport with the Emirati driver making her name during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Al Qubaisi’s success at Yas Marina Circuit was one of the major milestones in her motor racing career.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
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      7 inspiring women share how they fuel their creative spirit

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      Whether in the realm of art or design, food and fashion, these talents have stayed true to themselves and, in doing so, have pushed the boundaries of their respective fields.To delve into their story, Emirates Woman speaks to them to understand what keeps them inspired and how they continue to empower women around them.Layla KardanArtist, Creative Director & EntrepreneurWhat inspires you to be creative?Everything – from beauty, my family, nature, my experiences – good & pain, grief and loss and all the emotions in between. A lot of my first music was inspired by personal loss & pain into growth and blossoming as a woman. My second project was more about heartbreak and also standing for my beliefs with a kind of aggressive tone, and my latest project is so much about the world as I see it. It really just depends on where I am in life and what I’m experiencing. Now that I’m settled as a wife and mother I feel I’m making music from a more grounded place. Creativity fuels me and makes me feel so much elation and release. I guess it’s so much a part of my DNA that if I’m not being creative in one form or another I start to feel stifled.In which space do you feel most creative?The studio – be it a music studio or a dance rehearsal space where we create our shows. I recently traveled to an amazing music residency studio in the South of France called Limusic and produced 5 songs in 4 days – that kind of setting is ideal and being in nature surrounded by the most amazing talents is so good for my soul and freedom of expression, but I don’t always have that time, space and luxury so I have learnt how to work from wherever possible. Being home is just the biggest challenge as I get distracted by my son and wanting to play with him.How do you refuel your creativity?Travel for sure. Experiencing new cultures and elements of culture like music, dance and visual arts is so inspiring for me and ignites creativity within me.I also feel really recharged when I get space and time to relax and reflect on my thoughts and what I want to express. Michaelangelo and other great artists/thinkers used to carve out up to 4hrs a day for just creative thinking, so I try to draw inspiration from greats and look for moments where I can explore concepts in my mind and share these ideas with my nearest and dearest creators I collaborate with to bring these ideas to life. It’s also important to have daily practices like journaling and play to keep the spark alive.Tracy HarmoushCo-founder – MamaboozaWhat inspires you to be creative?The success stories of people who have done it before me. It maps out the possibility of who I can be. It sometimes takes 1 sentence in a book or 1 story of someone’s journey, to ignite a little fire in me that opens up my creativity. When I’m feeling stuck or uninspired, without fail, a new book, a new course, or a new success story opens my mind to new possibilities.In which space do you feel most creative?In building a brand and its story from the ground up. And as a writer and speaker, finding the right words and message to motivate the power of adopting a growth mindset.How do you refuel your creativity?A really good book. A really good podcast. A great adventure trip where I reconnect to earth, out in the wild, in the jungle, the dessert, the mountains, or the beach. Take me out of the city and I’ll find my fuel.Dr. Rhona EskanderFounder – Chelsea Dental ClinicWhat inspires you to be creative?My creativity is deeply rooted in nature and biology. The vibrant trees, delicate flowers, and dynamic wildlife in my surroundings constantly fuel my imagination. In my dental practice, this translates into a quest to mimic nature’s intricacy and beauty in every case I handle. My approach integrates the precision of dentistry with the aesthetics of the natural world. Additionally, my Instagram presence is influenced by other content creators, where I strive to blend scientific insight with visual appeal, creating content that educates and fascinates.In which space do you feel most creative?The place where my creativity thrives the most is in my dental clinic, which was exquisitely designed by my sister, Tanya Eskander. Drawing inspiration from elements like enamel and bone, she has created a space that embodies beauty and tranquillity, enhancing my ability to focus and innovate. This serene environment is pivotal in my creative process. Additionally, I find creative solace near water; walking along the canal in Warwick Avenue is a ritual that helps me clear my mind and gather new ideas.How do you refuel your creativity?To replenish my creative energy, I make it a priority to step away from urban settings and immerse myself in tranquil, natural environments. This detachment from the hustle of city life allows me to reconnect with my creative sources and return refreshed. Whether it’s a quiet retreat into the countryside or simply a day spent by a serene lake, being in nature is essential for rejuvenating my creative spirit and maintaining my mental well-being.Sarah Al AlagroobiSocio-anthropological researcher, Educator, Author & ArtistWhat inspires you to be creative?Creativity is a state of mind. I find creativity moves alongside curiosity. If you are inherently a curious person, then you will constantly be calling things into question and wanting to understand the world around you. Your understanding will be whatever is projected out into the world and so the ‘inspiration’ is the ‘interpretation’ of that curiosity. Exploring this curiosity allows you to form new ideas and see things from different perspectives, transforming ordinary observations into creation.In which space do you feel most creative?I feel the most creative when two completely unrelated constructs collide in a space. That space could be hypothetical, if you were to picture it as a Venn diagram, it would be the part that intersects, the middle ground, which is unchartered territory. This intersection is often described by Carl Yung as the integration of the shadow or rather the reconciliation of the ‘third’, you have the first construct, the second construct and then the third, which is how both collapse into one another to form this new normal. That ‘sweet spot’ is the space where I feel is the most creative.How do you refuel your creativity?The most important thing you can do for yourself is keep your head down and focus on your craft. I also find that stepping away from work and engaging in completely different activities can replenish my creative energy. Whether it’s reading, drumming, or spending time in a new environment, these experiences refresh my perspective and motivate new creative insights. You need to take time for yourself in order to regroup, and sometimes that means doing nothing at all.Nina BrianceFounder – Cult MiaWhat inspires you to be creative?As the founder and CEO for a fashion brand, my inspiration for creativity comes from the intersection of passion and purpose – a desire to create an exceptional platform that celebrates unique fashion, underpinned by the right values. Every opportunity and challenge that I have encountered as an entrepreneur has been an opportunity for innovation. I’ve taken inspiration from a wide range of sources: discussions with entrepreneurs that I admire, insights from industry leaders, and moments of introspection. As a leader, I’m committed to nurturing a culture of creativity within our team, with the aim of empowering them to push the Cult Mia boundaries. Together, we share the passion for building a purpose-driven business that ultimately is what propels my creativity.In which space do you feel most creative?As a founder, I feel most creatively charged in dynamic environments that pulse with energy and innovation. Whether it’s the buzz of our office during brainstorming sessions or being challenged by our advisors on our growth plans, I thrive on the excitement and exchange of ideas. I’ve discovered that my creativity comes to life most when I’m navigating uncharted territory, challenged to unearth bright spots, and asked to tackle fresh problems. Being able to wear different hats and knowing that no day is the same in my role gives me the most energy and is the space where I feel most creative.How do you refuel your creativity?Refuelling my creativitiy has been essential for sustaining momentum and innovation. I’ve found that immersing myself in experiences completely unrelated to Cult Mia, whether it’s exploring art galleries or simply spending time outdoors, sparks refreshed perspectives and renewed inspiration. I also try to carve out time for introspection and self-care. Whether it’s through exercise, or just disconnecting from my phone, some down time allows me to recharge mentally and emotionally, refueling my creativity.Lilian AfsharFounder & Creative Director – L’ AfsharWhat inspires you to be creative?I have this innate drive to weave together sources of inspiration and transform them into tangible creations. Creating is simply my passion.In which space do you feel most creative?Specifically at Paul Bert Serpette, an antique market in Paris.How do you refuel your creativity?By feeding my curious mind either by going to a museum, diving into a topic that interests me, the opera. When I’m in a new city that element of discovery and the unknown instantly refuels. I will never forget my first trip to Tokyo, it’s my favorite city to get lost in.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramApril’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – Download NowImages: Supplied  More

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      8 inspiring women tell us how they’ve adopted the abundance mindset

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      These inspiring women share what approaching life with an abundance mindset means to them.
      Marina RaphaelFashion Designer and Founder – Marina Raphael

      What does abundance mean to you?
      Abundance to me is about generosity of spirit, particularly focusing on how you make people feel. The ability to make people feel warmth, excitement , energy and passion creates the space for some truly memorable encounters. It is an energy that we try to distil in our designs and brand ethos. It also resonates deeply with the legacy of my family. Daniel Swarovski’s ambition to create “a diamond for everyone”, for me, really encapsulates the spirit of abundance and openness.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      I am a very ambitious person by nature, I love to dream big and set ambitious goals for myself so, to stay in a positive, growth mindset, it is important for me to take the time to reflect and celebrate the small victories, as well as the big ones. Growth is incremental and big things don’t happen over night so I really focus on small and consistent steps, when you look back over time you are amazed at how far you have come! Surrounding myself with people who inspire and lift me up is another key one for staying motivated to commit to those big, long-term goals and I am a big believer that a positive environment breeds growth! When I have those great days where I feel truly curious and inspired, it reminds me of the boundless potential that lies within us all and this motivates me to keep going. Finally, keeping an open mind, never think you have learned it all. When you lose your curiosity that’s when you stop growing.
      Duha AlRamadhan,Founder – Aubade
      What does abundance mean to you?
      Abundance to me is all about contentment. To be content with what is given to you and to see your life’s blessings as more than you can ever ask for. We all have an abundance in life if only we looked beyond material things and appreciated all the small joys.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      Don’t settle. Accept challenges, feed your mind, body and soul by constantly working on yourself. Whether it’s doing something new for your business, trying a new class, learning a new language. There are so many unique experiences in this lifetime waiting to be had that we shouldn’t take any of them for granted.
      Beenish MahmoodJewellery Designer
      What does abundance mean to you?
      For me, beyond the basic essentials of life like food, water, shelter and the air we breathe, lies abundance. It encompasses good health, the love of our cherished ones, our family, the meaningful relationships we cultivate and above all, the precious time we are gifted to nurture them. This abundance forms a vast reservoir, continuously nourished by a cascade of gratitude. The more we appreciate this wealth of abundance and the more we share it, the deeper and more profound this reservoir grows.
      What are the key tips to harboring a growth mindset?
      I try to embrace setbacks as integral to my growth journey. Instead of viewing them as failures, I see them as gateways to personal evolution. I also stay adaptable in challenging times, to explore diverse solutions. And I treasure humility as a fundamental element of my path. I think it’s essential to remember the endless expanse for learning; to be kind in our self-reflection. To trust in our intelligence and creativity and to have faith in our resilience to overcome obstacles.
      Jennifer ChamandiFounder – Jennifer Chamandi

      What does abundance mean to you?
      To me, abundance embodies a richness of life that includes fulfilling relationships, a sense of purpose, and personal growth. Abundance means having enough to share and the capacity to contribute to the well-being of others. It’s about experiencing gratitude for the present moment and maintaining an optimistic outlook for the future.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      One of the most important aspect is to embrace challenges, see challenges as opportunities to grow and learn, as each challenge is a chance to expand your abilities. Persist despite obstacles: Obstacles are part of the learning process, use them as feedback to learn and improve. Always develop a curiosity, it’s important to cultivate a genuine curiosity for learning and exploring new things.
      Hala AbdallahJewellery Designer and Founder – Ofa

      What does abundance mean to you?
      It’s believing in the infinite possibilities, the infinite love, the infinite good that is around us. Resources are endless and it never runs out, and it keeps moving around chasing the most creative of us humans.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      It’s knowing that our perspective is nothing but a slither of reality, and it’s 100% shaped and formed by our past, which means it’s completely changeable once we understand 1st: how our subconscious work, and 2nd: how does your primal survival instincts look like in your daily life as habits that limits your growth.
      Zeynab El-HelwFounder – Reborn Society

      What does abundance mean to you?
      Abundance, in my perspective, extends beyond material wealth. It embodies the richness of love, the warmth of relationships, and the joy of shared experiences. It’s about being surrounded by healthy, beloved ones, relishing in the simple pleasures of life, and finding contentment in each moment. Living in Dubai, where extravagance often takes center stage, abundance, to me, is finding fulfillment in the beauty of everyday life amidst the glitz and glamour of the city.
      What are the key tips to harboring a growth mindset?
      Cultivating a growth mindset is a journey rooted in pragmatism and resilience. For me, it’s about leveraging the diverse experiences and lessons gleaned from my corporate and influencer endeavors to fuel my entrepreneurial pursuits. This involves harnessing my knowledge and skills to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Additionally, maintaining a busy schedule helps channel my energy positively and combat the anxieties that come with the influencer lifestyle. Ultimately, fostering a growth mindset is not just about staying motivated, but also about embracing change, continuous learning, and unwavering optimism in the face of adversity.
      Courtney BlackFitness Instructor & Entrepreneur

      What does abundance mean to you?
      Making the most of every situation and trying to excel in anything you try to do.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      Growth is endless. It is hard to achieve ultimate growth but it’s not impossible. My top tip is to realise there are going to be many set backs in life and you have to be willing to find a solution to work past them.
      Linda HausserFounder and CEO – JANTHEE Berlin

      What does abundance mean to you?
      Abundance to me signifies having an excess or surplus of something, be it love, wealth, opportunities, or success. However, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a positive impact on your life. Instead, I view it as a wildcard—a chance to create something meaningful. I believe that with abundance, especially when it arrives rapidly or unexpectedly, comes the potential for it to vanish just as swiftly. Thus, it’s crucial to treat our abundance with respect and mindfulness.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      Start by listening to yourself and ignoring distractions. Take control of your feelings and focus on what you want to achieve. Remember, you’re in charge of your life, happiness, and success. Stay positive and avoid complaining—it won’t help you grow. Treat each day as a chance to start anew. Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Remember this quote: ‘I’d rather be the worst of the best than the best of the worst.’ Don’t be afraid of challenging situations—they help you grow.
      Rebecca TrestonLaser Skincare Expert

      What does abundance mean to you?
      To me abundance means to love and to be loved totally, to have good health, to have great peace of mind, to have dreams and aspirations, to have the ability to strive and reach my goals in life, to have the financial freedom to travel and explore the world, to live without fear and to experience the joy of giving to others.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      For a growth mindset, it’s important to feel the fear but find the strength to do it anyway, to do the things that you need to do, but make you uncomfortable, by setting goals to overcome the obstacles, to embrace new opportunities and challenges as they will make you learn and grow, to value effort and persistence and to surround yourself by growth minded people.
      Lina MalaikaCultural and Creative Consultant

      What does abundance mean to you?
      Abundance comes as a result of inner and outer work; a constant conscious effort. To create or attract abundance in your life, you need to adapt an abundant mindset, which is the belief that there are enough blessings in the world for everyone with no limits and the most crucial recipe is (gratitude) in all its forms – being grateful for whatever comes your way. Refrain from thinking and talking about what you’re lacking and what you don’t have – You need to constantly shift your perspective from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset by focusing on what they already have and make peace with the present moment. You need to then go out and be open to creative possibilities for abundance, there is no one way, you need to open up your landscape to what’s possible because anything you put your mind to is possible.
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      To harbor a rowth mindset is also constant conscious effort – there are no shortcuts or instant remedies to get there – first, you must put in the inner work to learn about who you are, once you have the awareness of who your truly authentic self is, then you will be able to navigate through both your conscious and subconscious. Overall, it’s important to not fear failure, embrace challenges, recognize fixed mindset traps, continue to learn – it never stops, value effort, cultivate persistence, celebrate your small wins and the success of others, seek out constructive feedback and ask for help and finally to surround yourself with growth-minded people
      Nat MorcosFounder- Goshá and Skooni
      What does abundance mean to you?
      Appreciation and gratitude of what you have , to all the small and big things you have achieved is the ultimate way to being happy in life . the chase for bigger and better is endless and leads to eptiness as in reality their will alsways be something to reach on your horizon and the hunt can go on and on and on. I practice gratitude and selflove and teaching myself to feel that I am enough , I have enough .
      What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset?
      It’s important to fall in love with challenges, as they are part of process, courage is must, say no to fear, believe that you are guided and protected, find inspiration in success of others, learn from your failures , love them and say thank you, accept criticism, keep continuing to learn everyday and find your army of supporters and value them the most.
      April’s – The Abundance Issue with Louis Vuitton – 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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      How I got my job as… a pastry Chef at Dubai’s exclusive experiential dessert haven

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week, we speak to Chef Carmen Rueda, who’s regarded as one of the most innovative pastry chefs in the UAE. As a renowned chocolatier and two-time runner-up at the prestigious World Chocolate Masters. She has studied culinary science and worked with some of the best dessert chefs in the world.
      Chef Rueda first moved in 2019 to Dubai as an Executive Pastry chef for Five Hotels, where she continued creating new items, combining innovation and with traditional baking styles. With a stint at Nobu Hotels in June 2020 teaching and creating new desserts concepts, she’s now settled in at BRIX dessert bar in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour.
      To delve into her journey, Emirates Woman spoke to this renowned chef to see how her journey in the F&B industry began.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      Math and history were always my two favorite subjects, I love learning about the past and how we move forward. We often don’t realize math is part of our everyday lives, in everything we do – however, as kids the complicated equations feel unnecessary.
      What was your first job?
      My first job ever was a nice small restaurant near in the beach in Spain where I had the chance to cook in their kitchen and start my culinary journey and drive my passion for food.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      My journey In Dubai started with Brix Café, after being presented with the opportunity it seemed like such a great journey I wanted to embark on and experience a new territory in the F&B scene.

      What inspired you to enter the F&B space and work at BRIX dessert bar?
      I always loved creating with my hands, I used to play with chocolate as a kid and with any other ingredients around me. It’s another form of art where you can express yourself and your emotions through food and desserts.
      Talk us through the concept of Brix Desserts?
      BRIX Desserts provides a diverse dessert experience for anyone seeking something extra special. At BRIX Cafe, guests can savor fresh pastries and an all-day breakfast menu. For a truly memorable experience, they can embark on a BRIX Journey, where they’ll be transported back in time, to another place, enabling them to taste flavours never tasted before with a unique menu that tells a captivating story by myself and my BRIX team.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      My main role at Brix Journey is to create new experiences including at the BRIX journey. One of my key roles as well to lead my team and help them improve their skills every day. One of the main stand out points at Brix Journey is the unique experience, so I am always looking for new ideas and resources – how to improve the overall experience.
      Talk us through your daily routine
      First thing I head to the bakery, plan out the day for me and the team. I am often testing new items and experimenting in the kitchen. After that i go through the stack and finances, then when i finish around midnight (hospitality hours) i go to the gym – I try to have some sort of balance and get my body moving after a long day at the bakery.

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      My advice is simple yet highly effective – learn, travel and eat as much as you can, take in all the experience, the income will come but you need to learn first. Traveling allows you to explore diverse ingredients, flavors, and techniques, inspiring you to create innovative and unique desserts/ pastries/ etc.
      Tell us more about the pastries offered?
      BRIX is a place where you can enjoy a large variety of fine desserts, from the exclusive story-driven set menu experience at BRIX journey – which is one of 10 only in the world – to the simple yet memorable pastries at BRIX Cafe, where you can enjoy a slow morning or day, soak in the natural light that hugs the space, the greenery the wholesome set up by the water. We’re always innovating our pastry offering, we just launched the flat croissant which has been going viral however, we made sure we add our own Brix touch to it.
      What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
      We often find ourselves in rush to get to places, whether in your career or personal life and we can’t help but compare ourselves to people around us. My best advice is one step at a time, we don’t have the same journey as the others’ and everything happen for a reason… enjoy the journey that comes with each step
      And what is the worst?
      This might sound odd by constant getting compliments such as ‘you are great’ or ‘you are the best’ could limit your mind set. We always need that push to be better, a motive to out-do ourselves and get better. Once we believe we’re the absolute best, we get comfortable which is the worst enemy.
      What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
      Once you decide to go global, you need to act local in order to appeal to the demographics of that country you’re working & living in. So, I would say finding new flavors and implementing it in my creations as I traveled throughout my career.

      What’s your future for the brand?
      Growing and spreading the concept of BRIX around, both BRIX Cafe and BRIX Journey, ensuring everyone can enjoy our experiences and leave with a memorable and elevate dessert experience. The concept of a dessert-only set course menu still seems unorthodox as diners immediately associate it with an overload of sweetness when it fact it’s quite the opposite and it’s part of our journey is to educate people on our concept and slowly integrate it to become a as popular as a regular dining experience.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Inside the office with Himyan Al Qubaisi, founder of Koncrete

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      Life by Camille Macawili 9 mins ago VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES Founder Himyan Al Qubaisi shares the conception of Koncrete, a design-led multifunctional coffee and creative space in Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah. How long have you been in this space? It’s been three months since we officially opened. Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces? We curated our space thoughtfully, ensuring that each element harmonises with our design approach, resulting in a cohesive and effortless aesthetic. How do you think the interior reflects you? The interior mirrors my personal style, combining modern simplicity with personal touches and elements of raw minimalism, resulting in a sophisticated and inviting space. My brand aligns seamlessly with this aesthetic, reflecting the character of the space through a language that resonates with the community. Describe your taste in three words. Refined, eclectic, and sophisticated. Emirates Man The SS24 Issue – Download Now – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram Photography by Mark Mathew More

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      5 interesting things to know about Salama Mohamed

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph3 hours ago From being the founder of a clean skincare brand to creating statical content on a daily basis, Salama Mohamed has made an impact in the world of content creation as she continues to inspire her audience on a daily basis.Seeing as we’re huge fans of the Emirati content creator and all that she’s achieved, here’s some things to know about her.She launched her own beauty brandLaunching exclusively at Sephora, Salama Mohamed has managed to create a skincare brand that is specifically designed for sensitive skin and is purely made with love. With a sustainable line that primarily addresses people’s skincare concerns, Peacefull promises products with active ingredients while consisting of a natural formula. With the brand that adjusts accordingly to the extreme temperatures in this part of the world, as it consists of healing properties, to keep your skin at peace.The brand is available in all Sephora Middle East stores and online on peacefull.comShe’s “blessed with vitiligo”Salama previously opened up to Emirates Woman about being on a continuous journey of self-love. Having been diagnosed with vitiligo – a skin condition that causes the loss of skin colour in patches which can get bigger over time – when she was young she’s learned to embrace her condition. “It was a struggle growing up, when you feel you are different and don’t fit in it is easier to think there is something wrong with you,” she previously told EW. However, despite the uncertainty, Salama has managed to overcome her challenges and embrace the power of self-love.She’s garnered an impressive social media followingFrom her travels to humorous videos that constantly make her audience laugh, Salama has a fanbase of over one million followers on Instagram, where’s she is seen doing various collaborations with beauty brands, posting hilarious reels on globe-trotting the world with her husband.She’s a doting motherWhile she’s a successful entrepreneur, Salama is also a doting mother to two boys. She and her husband regularly enjoy family time together, sharing photos on social media constantly seen with their cheery faces on camera as the family displays love and affection.She and her husband are masters in content creationHaving cultivated a huge online following, Salama and her husband, Khalid Al Ameri, constantly produce innovative content on a daily basis, with a satirical approach to married life along with lighthearted videos that they continually share on TikTok and Instagram. In particular, Khalid is known for being an avid storyteller, sharing heartwarming and inspiring video on YouTube and Facebook.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Instagram @salamamohamed More

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      How I got my job as… Head of Marketing at this premium global chauffeur service company

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      Lifeby Sarah Joseph5 hours ago Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.This week, we speak to Rakhee Raval Shepherd, the Head of Marketing & PR at Blacklane Middle East. Blacklane’s Chauffeur Service delivers an unparalleled ride experience so you can optimise your travel time. All the chauffeurs are meticulously trained to provide a seamless and safe experience for each passenger.With a strong background in marketing, Shepherd has garnered the right skillset over the years in her field as a professional. To understand more, Emirates Woman sat down and spoke to to see how her entrepreneurial journey began.What was your favourite subject at school?There were quite a few subjects I enjoyed, from physical education to geography and learning about different countries and cultures. But I would say that Oral English and Business Studies were my favorite, expressing yourself through words and learning about the origins and growth of businesses fascinated me.What was your first job?My very first job was with Ipsos, a global market research firm engaged by brands to understand their audiences better. It was quite challenging as it involved cold calling people, which is never fun, but back then people had more time to conduct these types of surveys. This led to me working as promotional staff in London whilst I was at university, working with beauty and perfume brands to promote their products at Heathrow Airport, which was perfect for me as I love speaking with people.What brought you to Dubai?After university I worked for a fashion accessory supplier, the company wanted to expand into Asia and the Middle East, so I moved to Hong Kong for two years to lead the growth of the business in these markets. One of my key clients was the owner of a leading fast fashion retailer based in the UAE, we built a strong connection, so I ended up moving to Dubai to support in the execution of the new retail concept the group was launching. It was the right move for me, a great opportunity presented itself combined with the year-round sunshine and tax -free earnings, I would have been crazy not to move to Dubai, I’ve now been here for 14 years.What inspired you to enter the mobility space and talk us through your role as Head of Marketing & PR at Blacklane Middle East.When I looked back at the roles I’ve previously had, it was working with start-ups that I enjoyed the most. So, when I was approached by a recruiter about Blacklane entering the market and the Dubai project being the testbed to launch the companies enhanced business model, which would later roll out into other cities, I felt that same level of excitement. When I joined Blacklane, my objective as Head of Marketing & PR was to launch Blacklane in Dubai, generate brand awareness through multiple marketing channels and work with media to target a B2C audience. We also spent a lot of time looking at our brand positioning and how we could differentiate ourselves from other existing players.Talk us through the concept of Blacklane?Blacklane is an award-winning global chauffeur service operating in more than 50 countries and 200 cities worldwide. Last year we launched in Dubai with an all-electric fleet of luxurious Mercedes-Benz EQS vehicles, driven by our team of Academy-trained male and female chauffeurs. Our chauffeurs work exclusively for Blacklane and receive a monthly salary and we provide upgraded accommodation with amenities so that they are well looked after. We invest heavily in their training so that they can perfect their driving abilities and learn about chauffeuring etiquette which results in providing an exceptional service ensuring that every guest feels safe and comfortable when riding with us. Our services are available through our mobile app making it stress free and convenient to book a professional chauffeur.What are the key elements of your role?I work across all elements of the marketing function, starting from developing both the marketing and PR strategies, supporting the overarching business objectives. Ideating and executing creative content like our OOH campaigns, brand shoots, developing both B2C and B2B marketing collateral, and creating compelling digital content. I manage my team and oversee all brand partnerships, collaborations, sponsorships, tradeshows and activations as well social media and influencer management. In addition, I manage the PR agency and engage in media relations, and of course I am responsible for the budgets, KPIs and reporting.Talk us through your daily routine.Honestly, every day is different which is something I appreciate but generally I start my day with a 15-minute meditation before my kids wake up to prepare myself for the day ahead, I get the kids ready for school and drop them off, and if I’m lucky I manage to squeeze in a quick run or work out before I catch up on emails, align with my team and lay out the priorities for the day.What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?My role is an all-encompassing role and involves multi-tasking at every moment. Attention to detail is key and having good people skills, most importantly having a motivated and engaged team is crucial. It is highly rewarding when you see the visual outputs or when projects are executed well, and you see the objectives set out being met.Tell us more about the servicesTypically, limousine services that offer professional chauffeurs and luxurious vehicles require pre-booking via the web or by phone, but Blacklane brings this level of service excellence to guests via a mobile app, which is very convenient. We offer a range of services includes one-way and return journeys, airport transfers, hourly bookings, as well as inter-emirate travel. Guests also have the option to book a ride now or to schedule one for later. It makes me proud to say that 50 percent of our chauffeurs are female and that we offer premium quality child car seats, both preferences can be requested via the app.What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?When making decisions, quiet your mind and follow your instincts.And what is the worst?Just do what they tell you to do.What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?Balancing work and home life as a new mum.What’s your future for the brand?Our vision for the future of the brand is rooted in promoting an ethical and eco-conscious way to travel. We aspire to lead the industry by example, setting new standards in safety and sustainable travel. Our goal is to redefine luxury travel by intertwining opulence with a commitment to the planet, offering our guest a travel experience that is not only luxurious but also socially and environmentally responsible.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Instagram @blacklanemiddleeast More