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    Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi on crafting the future

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    The arts, language, and her community are all lifelong passions for Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi.
    As Director of SIFF (Sharjah International Film Festival) & FANN (Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children), Her Highness uses her ability to make a difference, here she discusses nurturing the next generation and the individuals who inspired her the most with Emirates Woman.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    During the week, my first 30 minutes are always getting ready for school and work (me and my three kids, aged 13, 9 and 5 years old), school drop-offs and quickly sorting through WhatsApp/emails on my phone if ever needed during my daily commute from Dubai to Sharjah.
    As the Director of SIFF & FANN, you’ve participated in the development of the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF) since 2013 and founded Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children (FANN) in 2012. Can you tell us more about it?
    I remember my first interview and being asked if I could see myself more in training or in a children’s film festival! It was not a difficult choice to make. At that time, I had been working for almost 10 years in the field of children’s education in different positions, and I was and always am a film lover! It was not an easy journey having to start from scratch, but the vision and guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi always led the way, and working in assembling a passionate team who love what they do and believe in it made the journey so worthwhile.
    Since you’ve led these entities, how has it been received?
    The best thing about FANN and SIFF is that they are focused on all things media art. It is never about me taking the helm as I will not always be here, but hopefully, FANN and SIFF will continue to thrive and make a difference. In the end, it’s about the people and giving back to our audience. If there is a continuous influx of creative minds, amazing films, and the development of media arts, this industry will continue to succeed and prosper. Most importantly it is always about Sharjah and the beauty and treasures in it.
    What is the overarching goal?
    I feel there is always more to achieve and more to offer, especially in the education and media industry. We aim for more success and achievements in the near future, whether it be small or on a global scale, it all makes a difference. When we receive positive feedback and appreciation from students, expressing gratitude, not only for the information learnt in the workshop but also for the changes in his/her personality, that is an achievement all on its own. Winning awards on our rebranding is a success. Producing the first sci-fi Arab animation series is a triumph, but we celebrate in the moment and look ahead for bigger and better celebrations.
    What has been the most pivotal moment of your career to date?
    Every year we receive incredible and wonderful feedback from guests, trainers, students, and partners, and that is a pivotal moment for me. It is when we make a difference or create change. Seeing how the team has grown to where we are now is a pivotal moment. Completing ten years is a pivotal moment this year.
    What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
    Challenges are always there no matter how far you go, every journey has ups and downs. Production was a completely new experience for us at FANN, but we overcame each challenge with an open mind and continued to learn along the way, striving to be better.
    Was there a time you have been on the receiving end of such support from other women, and how did that make you feel?
    Yes, first and foremost Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, and my mother who has been working for more than 40 years and has always supported me. Friends, family, colleagues, and a team who believe in what I do makes me feel appreciated and motivated and I am very grateful to have that support in my life.
    Who have been the female role models in your life and why do you admire them?
    Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi for her years of giving and for her focus on children and women and families, and I am humbled to be working in just a small fraction of all the tremendous work she is heading. My mother is also my role model, I have seen her work since I was a child and the way she acts and deals with situations at home or at work has made me who I am today. I always hear comments that not only do I look like her, but I speak and act like her as well, which makes me very proud.
    How do you make time for yourself daily?
    I am guilty of not making time for myself on a daily basis, but it is my goal to make time for myself because it does reflect on how your day goes (especially at 40 now!) but when I do make time for myself, I like to catch up on some of my favourite series or read.
    This is The Trailblazers Issue – how do you hope to support future trailblazers?
    In making a difference one way or another on a personal or professional level. It’s always nice to be remembered for accomplishments, but also for touching people’s hearts and souls.
    September – The Trailblazers Issue with Amira Sajwani – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Supplied More

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    Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner are the latest couple heading for a divorce in 2023

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    2023 isn’t the year of love for celebrities. This morning, news about Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner getting a divorce spread like wild fire.
    The rumours sparked after the former Disney star allegedly met up divorce lawyers and was spotted without his wedding ring on multiple occasions. The couple tied the knot in 2019 and have two daughters together. Joe was the first to initiate this relationship, as he slid into the Game of Thrones actor’s Instagram via Dm’s back in 2016 – the singer and the actor have been together ever since.
    Before this popular couple parted ways, last month, Britney Spears and Sam Asghari also called it quits, adding to another Hollywood couple biting the dust.
    Britney and her husband Sam have separated after 14 months of marriage. The couple tied the knot in June 2022, after Sam popped the question in September 2021. In an intimate ceremony at the pop star’s Thousand Oaks home — the wedding marked a new era in Britney’s life, as she reclaimed power over her life after 13 years of conservatorship.
    Britney and Sam are amongst the many celebrity duos who have decided to go their own way this year. Just a week ago, One Three Hill alumni, Sophia Bush filed for divorce from her husband of a year, Grant Hugh. The Bear famed Jeremy Allen White was also spotted out and about without his wedding ring after rumours about his divorce kept doing the rounds.
    July was a sob-fest as well, from Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez heading for a divorce to Sophia Vergara and Joe Manganiello ending their marriage over irreconcilable differences – are marriages truly even made in heaven?

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

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    An insider’s guide to all the must-visit hotspots in Dubai’s thriving dining scene

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    24 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    Dubai is never short of luxe hotspots to dine at.
    By adding to the Emirate’s culinary scene more and more restaurants are opening in Dubai with varied cuisine options.
    For all the new finds, swipe through our editor-approved guide of restaurants and cafés to try in Dubai.
    September – The Trailblazers Issue with Amira Sajwani – 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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    UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi returns to earth safely

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    The whole of UAE is anticipating the return of one man right now – Astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi, who spent the last six months of his life in space.
    [embedded content]
    Making history
    Crew-6’s historic space mission spanned 186 days, marking the longest mission in Arab history. The Dragon capsule safely touched down off the coast of Florida at 8:17 am on a Monday. One hour after the splashdown, Al Neyadi emerged from the Dragon spacecraft.
    Importance of the mission
    During this mission, Al Neyadi achieved significant milestones that enhanced the UAE’s prominence in the global space sector. He completed the longest-ever space mission by an Arab, spending six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and conducting groundbreaking scientific experiments for the benefit of humanity and the scientific community.
    Heroic return
    Throughout the UAE, electronic billboards displayed a countdown to Al Neyadi’s arrival with messages of support, such as ‘Safe Journey, Sultan. Upon his return, Al Neyadi is expected to receive a grand heroic welcome in the UAE, following medical evaluations in the United States.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @astro_alneyadi More

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    Travelling to Madird? Skip the typical tourist route to try these untapped experiences

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    Trailblazing travel: Explore the unbeaten track to discover the untapped experiences that Madrid has to offer.
    The Stay

    Madrid has experienced significant growth in high-end hotels over the past two years, with luxury chains like Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid, Four Seasons Madrid, Rosewood Villa Magna and Thompson Madrid establishing their presence in the city centre. Additionally, Hotel Montera Madrid, Curio Collection by Hilton have also carved a space for themselves. In 2023, more luxury hotels are set to open, including Nobu Hospitality.
    The Dining

    Madrid offers a vibrant gastronomic scene, with Food Hall hosting 11 restaurants specializing in international cuisine, including some run by Michelin-starred chefs. Newrestaurants like Llama Inn, The Omar, and NKO by Eneko Atxa in Barrio de las Letras have garnered attention. Madrid’s municipal market also feature gourmet gems like Tripea and Doppelganger.
    The Hero Experience

    Madrid’s museums are the epitome of its cultural scene. While the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza lead the way, several other museums contribute to the city’s diverse cultural offerings. The Gallery of Royal Collections, which recently opened besides the Royal Palace, is showcasing an array of remarkable paintings, decorative arts, weaponry, and historical documents that represent Spain’s extensive and profoundly affluent heritage.
    The Must-try

    In recent years, Madrid has experienceda significant transformation, becoming aprominent and fashionable international destination with a diverse and high-qualityoffering. It possesses all the elements tobecome the preferred shopping destination for global tourists in terms of price and variety. The shopping experience in Madridis truly exceptional, providing a delightful year-round atmosphere for strolls through its streets, where you can find both local artisans as well as high-end shops like Galería Canalejas and El Corte Inglés.
    September – The Trailblazers Issue with Amira Sajwani – 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…Managing Director at The Outnet

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    39 mins ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week we chat with Emma Mortimer, Managing Director, The Outnet. Emma’s professional journey commenced within the realms of media, with notable roles at esteemed establishments like Hearst Magazines and Haymarket Media Group. However, her career trajectory eventually led her into the world of retail and e-commerce. Prior to her return to THE OUTNET, Emma lent her expertise to brands like matchesfashion.com and the Arcadia Group, making significant contributions to the launch of The Modist, an e-tailer specializing in modest fashion. Moreover, her tenure as a fashion specialist for the British government’s Department for International Trade underscored her commitment to the industry’s growth.
    At the helm of The Outnet, Emma Mortimer assumes a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s global business trajectory and setting its strategic course. Her purview extends across critical facets of the store’s operation, encompassing everything from procurement and merchandising to commercial trade, brand communications, VIP customer relations, and creative content development. Her mission: is to maintain The Outnet’s esteemed reputation as a premier destination for savvy fashionistas seeking discounted designer treasures from past seasons.
    With two decades of experience straddling the realms of retail and media, Emma brings to the table a profound understanding of the luxury e-commerce landscape. Her leadership is a testament to the fusion of commerce and creativity, a recipe for long-term prosperity in this ever-evolving industry.
    To delve into her role and career, Emirates Woman spoke to her to see how she overcomes challenges and creates a niche for herself in this industry.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    I studied chemistry, biology, and art & design in my final years at school. It’s safe to say art & design was my favorite subject given my career path in the fashion industry. However, I did appreciate the combination of the arts and science and using both sides of my brain – something that is essential to my role as Managing Director, which calls for both creative and analytical thinking.
    What was your first job?
    I used to work in my family’s fine art shop, helping out during the holidays. Looking back, it was an invaluable experience – from seeing the day-to-day running of a retailer to learning how to connect with the customer.
    Walk us through your role at The Outnet
    I’m lucky to have a wonderfully diverse role. Each day is different, a lot of time is spent reviewing our performance and working with our commercial planning and finance teams. I enjoy continually learning, especially about our customers and their behaviour, analysing updates from our customer insights team along looking at our brand and performance marketing results. I also have oversight across the buying and merchandising teams and love to hear about new brands coming to the site along with exclusive collaborations and capsules. Also, a big part of my role is liaising with our regional GMs, ensuring what we do on a global scale is regionally nuanced and relevant.

    You started your career with media, what made you switch to e-commerce?
    It happened very organically – I was working in production for a mail-order catalogue company that was moving away from printed catalogues into e-commerce at the time. I’m always stimulated by future-facing innovations, and e-commerce is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    Every day is book-ended with nursery drop off and pick up. I hugely value this time with my daughter, though getting out of the house is a far more drawn-out process these days! I try to partly plan what I’m wearing the night before for speed and ease. I used to do a lot of exercise before having a child, but now it consists of a 20-minute speed walk to the nursery before heading into the office for a day of meetings.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    It’s less so advice and more the great examples set by my parents. They both worked extremely hard and had incredible ethics. I learnt a huge amount from watching and listening to them growing up. I remember my mum always saying to me ‘Just do your best’, whenever I was being tough on myself, and I try to remember this when things become challenging.
    And what is the worst?
    I honestly can’t think of any, which says a lot about the mentors and role models I’ve been lucky to have in my life. I value positive thinking.
    Can you share some strategies you’ve found effective for fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment?
    Ensuring an open, collaborative, and supportive team culture. I’m extremely proud of THE OUTNET’s culture which we’ve managed to maintain over all the years. It enables anyone who joins the team to feel valued, respected and supported.

    How do you balance your leadership responsibilities with maintaining a healthy work-life integration?
    Fortunately, being in the position I am in, I am able to help lead by example and ensure that we all switch off from work at weekends and spend time with our families and friends. The weekends are when I can take a class at the gym or go swimming with my daughter. I think it’s important she sees me looking after myself, as well as just working and looking after the family. Although, this is far easier said than done!
    What advice do you have for aspiring leaders in terms of building strong professional relationships and networks?
    Be open, show humility and vulnerability – it helps to connect you with your colleagues. Check-in with people; ask how they are and listen to their responses. This builds strong-rooted relationships. Keep in contact. Always be respectful, and kind and help people without an agenda. Paths often cross and you may find someone helps you out in a similar way in the future.
    How do you see the role of technology evolving in your industry, and how are you adapting your leadership style to those changes?
    Having the ability to access so much is a real positive. We work in a fast-paced business reacting to an ever-changing landscape. Data really helps to support decisions for a stronger customer perspective and for our business strategy. As a leader reacting to these changes has helped me become nimbler and more adaptable, whilst always having the data to support thought processes and make informed decisions.
    Can you discuss the most impactful decision you’ve made as a managing director and the results it brought about?
    For me, it always comes back to the people – deciding how to nurture and support our talent. This involves stretching and challenging teams with greater responsibility and opportunities. In turn, it motivates, develops, and helps to retain knowledge and talent, which leads to greater success and results.
    In your experience, what qualities or skills have been most crucial in your journey to becoming successful?
    Learning fast, adapting and being flexible to change. Alongside being a team player. I always remember the proverb ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    In Pics: Queen Rania’s heart-warming birthday celebrations with family and community

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Yesterday, Queen Rania of Jordan celebrated her 50th birthday with family, friends and her beloved community.
    Known as the epitome of grace and kindness, Queen Rania is widely loved and respected by her people. On the occasion of her birthday, the Queen of the people was showered with warm gestures by everyone around her.
    Instead oflavish party and a grand soiree, Her Majesty Queen Rania spent her day giving it back to the community. She began her day by visiting Firyal Kofahi’s Kitchen in the village of Hawar, where she met with the strong women who are constantly working towards empowering each other. The ladies surprised Queen Rania with a table full of desserts adorned with candles. “Lovely to spend the afternoon with you! Thanks to Um Mohammad and all the women I met today at Firyal Kofahi’s Kitchen in the village of Hawar – what an incredible example of women lifting each other up,” she shared in a heartfelt post.

    Later in the day, she spent her afternoon at the family lunch, where she was surrounded by His Majesty Kin Abdulla II of Jordan, Crown Prince Al Hussein of Jordan and Princess Rajwa Al Hussein. Dressed in a simple white top and a cropped white jacket, the Queen looked radiant in her understated attire for a simple celebration.
    Sharing a moment of laughter, Her Majesty shared one photo surrounded by her family at the table and one with her daughter-in-law, Princess Rajwa Al Hussein. Embracing her mother-in-law in the picture, the newest Princess of Jordan looked stunning in an all-beige jumpsuit, tied together with a simple black belt and a pair of emerald green earrings that added the perfect contrast to her ensemble.
    Take a look at Queen Rania’s humble yet heart-warming birthday celebration

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

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    Astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi returns to Earth after history’s longest Arab space mission

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
    The Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi made history by completing the longest Arab space mission in history, with a 6-month mission abroad the International Space Station.
    On Saturday September 2, 2023, Al Neyadi, is all set to leave the International Space Station and begin his 24-hour journey back to earth.

    We began the mission as crewmates, but now we’re brothers.Over the last 6 months, I gained a new family – with whom I shared expertise, traditions, and cultures, and experienced beautiful and challenging moments while creating unforgettable memories together. pic.twitter.com/Y31GcfIvtr
    — Sultan AlNeyadi (@Astro_Alneyadi) August 31, 2023

    During his time away, he shared a heartfelt, video of him and the six-crew members savouring a meal together with the anti-gravity effect.
    He said, “We began the mission as crewmates, but now we’re brothers. Over the last 6 months, I gained a new family – with whom I shared expertise, traditions and cultures and experienced beautiful and challenging moments while creating unforgettable memories together.”
    Where to live-stream his return
    For everyone eager to see his return in real-time, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre has announced that his return will be live-streamed.
    The Dragon Spacecraft will carry the Emirati astronaut along with his fellow crew-6 members from the ISS to the touchdown, with viewers to experience this live. It will kick off on September 2, 2023 at 3pm with the undocking of the spacecraft to take place at 5.05 pm.
    You can tune into the live stream at mbrsc.ae.
    When did his mission begin?

    On this planet, I leave behind everyone I love and take off to space..
    I leave behind a country that has forged its way to stars and lit its path with Zayed’s Ambition..
    I leave you all behind until we meet again from space..
    Your brother, Sultan Al Neyadi. pic.twitter.com/vgbTNXlSvj
    — Sultan AlNeyadi (@Astro_Alneyadi) February 27, 2023

    Despite an obstacle of not being able to leave on February 26, 2023, Engineers and Space X rescheduled a new launch date for the situation which took place more than 24 hours later after it occurred.
    He said, “On this planet, I leave behind everyone I love and take off to space. I leave you all behind until we meet again from space.”
    He entered space for the first time in March 2023, making it the longest Arab space mission for NASA, while also completing the first Arab spacewalk on April 28, 2023, making this a key moment in history for the books.
    Swipe through to see all the memorable photos from his journey over the last six months.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Twitter @Astro_Alneyadi More