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    This luxe floral boutique hosted an immersive Peonies workshop in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    The gift of learning a new skill lasts a lifetime. To unleash their inner artist, the UAE-based floral boutique, Flowers.ae hosted an exclusive workshop to delve into the world of floristry.
    Year after year, the brand hosts an intimate session with a select guest-list of VVIP customers. This year was no differed as it hosted the workshop, A Symphony of Peonies workshop which was attended by 18 guests from media and VIPs on June 15, 2023, at the Saudi restaurant, Foul & Tamees.

    Held by a team of floral experts and designers, the exclusive workshop gave all the attendees a learning experience and a chance to create their own bouquet through a step-by-step process of special techniques, tips and tricks to curate sophisticated centerpieces, bouquets and decorative displays for any space.

    Workshop participants were also provided guidance on proper conditioning, care, and handling of these exquisite flowers to ensure their longevity and freshness.
    Freshly shipped from Holland and Ecuador, the roses and peonies used were Pink Julietta Peony, Red Charm Peony, Diana Parks Peony, Happy Returns Peony, Heart Roses, Sweet Unique Roses, Art Deco Roses, Miyabi & Candy Roses with over 2000 high-quality stems giving everyone a taste of styling their own bouquets.

    The Marketing Manager at Flowers.ae, Dina Malik said, “We are proud to have hosted our second floral workshop just in time for the summer. A Symphony of Peonies was a great chance for participants to explore the versatility and beauty of floral arrangements.”
    Be it a special occasion or if you’re simply looking to treat yourself, a luxurious bouquet from Flowers.ae is the perfect option for any event be it a wedding, birthday, special event and a sophisticated addition to any interiors space.
    To make your next purchase visit flowers.ae. The brand is proud to have achieved the highest rating on both Trustpilot and Google, making them the Top Rated 24 Hour Flower Delivery Service in Dubai and the most trusted florist in the UAE. With over 94 percent of the reviews earning 5 stars, customers have spoken, and they are committed to maintaining our exceptional level of service.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Netflix TUDUM 2023: New shows, upcoming movies, series renewal and more

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    TUDUM, Netflix’s annual event took place in Brazil this year and launched a number of new shows and movies, announched new seasons of poular series and updated release dates for mega projects.
    Last weekend, all your favourite Netflix celebrities ascended in São Paulo, Brazil, making some major revelations for their respective titles. From Maitryei Ramakirshnan, who just wrapped the 4th and final season of her high school drama ‘Never have I Ever’ hosting the event to the yet-to-be launched cast of Riverdale’s Indian version ‘The Archies’ being introduced — the crossover was real. 
    While mighty movie stars like Alia Bhatt, Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan launched the trailer of their soon-to-be released film ‘Heart of Stone’,  Jenna Ortega and the rest of the Wednesday gang solved fan theories for the next season.
    Truly, the Netflixverse in the capital of Brazil was the place to be. While the event itself was exciting, the announcements about new movies, shows and series renewals has made the fans even more thrilled about what’s coming next.
    In case you missed what happened at TUDUM, here are all the latest updates about your favourite films and shows.
    Wednesday Season 2 Fan Theories Decoded

    Bridgerton Season 3 Sneak-Peek

    Squid Game Season 2 Cast Announcement

    XO Kitty Season 2 Announcement

    ‘You’ Season 5 Teaser

    Heart of Stone Trailer

    The Archies Teaser

    Extraction 3 Announcement

    Emily In Paris Season 4 Update

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

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    6 of Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum’s most memorable equestrian moments

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    43 mins ago

    It’s no secret the UAE royals have an affinity for horses and Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum is no exemption.
    As the niece of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikha Latifah has been raised with a passion for horses. So much so, that she has carved herself a successful career in the equestrian space.
    From showjumping to polo, this royal has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. As a three-time UAE national champion and Olympic-level show jumper, sports has always been at the forefront of her career.
    To champion all her sporting equestrian moments, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all her most inspiring moments surrounding horses.
    A powerful Emirates Woman cover star

    For September’s – The Power Issue, Sheikha Latifah shared what it takes to keep her mind in champion mode. Shot at the Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club, our cover star is seen in her truest form as she’s captured focusing on a passion, that she’s most proud of.
    Sharing a touching story with her horse Fattaan

    Sheikha Latifah shared a heartfelt post expressing how she felt towards her five-year-old horse Fattaan. She touched upon details of how he’s improved over time despite not completing a show that season. In the caption of the post, she said, “Give the horses the time they need and they will tell you when they are ready.” Her empathy and connection with horses can clearly be depicted through the post.
    Tasting success at the nation’s cup

    With hours of rigorous training and persistence, this royal rider participated in a showjumping event in February 2019 at the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation. As a true leader, she shared a post thanking the entire team for their support and commitment to making this event a success including the Saudi Arabian Olympic showjumper, Ramzy Al Duhami, who was also her trainer.
    Making history at the Beijing Olympics 2008

    Making history for women in the region, Sheikha Latifah took sports representation to new heights in 2008 when she became the first woman to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics. With it being the highlight of her career at only 22 years old, she trained hard to make a mark in the competition. Having started showjumping at a high level only one year prior to the competition, she surely made the UAE proud.
    Her first international competition

    With an upward career trajectory since then, this royal has proved that no challenge is hard enough for her. In 2006, she made it to the international stage at the Asian Games with participants from all around the globe. Held in Qatar, she participated as a member of the UAE team, taking her passion for endurance racing to a global level. Without any expectations, she brought back the bronze medal, and return to the UAE with a token of her hard work. Without limiting herself to just one Asian Games event, she made it to four later on.
    Her first taste of success

    Back in 2003, Sheikh Latifah got her first taste of triumph at the UAE Showjumping Championship when she was only 18 years old on a national level.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    The best Pilates studios to elevate your fitness routine in Dubai

    Looking to revamp your fitness routine? Then Pilates might be the perfect option for you.
    With celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner, elevating their fitness routine with reformer Pilates, it’s time for you to take up a session or two.
    This once forgotten exercise trend has made a comeback since it was first invented by Joseph Pilates a century ago. With social media been the force behind its resurgence, this popular workout channels the mind-body connection to achieve precise, controlled movements that promote alignment, balance and strength.
    Designed to improve physical strength and coordination, form long-term habits and ensure greater core strength, these workouts allow to strengthen your muscles and feel mentally fit. Pilates can help create long, lean, and defined muscles, while also helping to reduce stress, creating awareness in the body, and improving mental clarity.
    So, if you’re looking to begin on your Pilates fitness journey, we’re curated a guide of all the must-visit studios in Dubai.
    POSTURE.

    This exclusive boutique Pilates studio promises a mind, body and soul experience with Reformer Pilates, Cadillac, mat pilates and more for all levels. Each class is designed to tone, lengthen and strengthen the importance a strong core and great posture. Led by a team of qualifies instructors, the studio boasts a calm, relaxing and inclusive environment. The private sessions are priced at Dhs450 and are valid for one week from the date of purchase and the membership packages are priced at Dhs1,300 for 10 classes valid as a monthly recurring package. Located in Golden Mile, Building 4, Palm Jumeirah, it’s open daily from Monday to Thursday, 6:30am to 8:30pm, Friday 6:30am to 2:30pm, Saturday 8am to 12pm and Sunday 9am to 12pm.
    For more information visit thisisposture.com
    Blended Wellness

    This multi-wellness destination offers a sanctuary of wellbeing with its state-of-the-art Pilates studio at Blended Fit. With well-trained instructors and new equipment, guests can experience jaw dropping views of Dubai’s skyline, making this an incredible space to workout and also enjoy a healthy/smoothie and juice after the class. The Reformer Pilates packages are priced at Dhs600 for a five-pack class. Located at The Dukes, The Palm Jumeirah, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, from 6am to 10pm.
    For more information visit blendedwellness.com
    Sol Pilates Studio

    This equipped Pilates studio offers everything from Reformer and pre-natal expertise to providing its guests with a vibrant haven to learn and grow. Curated for ladies only, the packages are available upon request. Sol Pilates is a full equipped Pilates studio in the heart of Mirdif 35, street 60C and is open from Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 10pm and Thursday to Saturday 10am to 12pm.
    For more information visit solpilates.ae
    Reform Athletica

    This boutique fitness studio caps classes at 10 to 16 people and has four signature classes: The Reform Method, TRX Athletica, RA Yoga and Kettle Form. All compliment one another and each class aims to give every person a workout that will make an impact. Inspired by the global fitness scene, the classes are 45-50 minutes long and do not distinguish between skill levels; beginners and advanced participants are all equally welcome and no prior experience is required for any class. As a cross between an intimate fitness studio and an art gallery, the space truly feels like home. A single class is priced at Dhs133 and the five class package is priced at Dhs643. Located in Villa 40, 165a, Jumeira 1, it’s open at various times during the week.
    For more information visit reformathletica.com
    The Hundred Wellness Centre

    With a team of certified instructors who use a combination of mat work reformer Pilates and other equipment, customers can achieve their fitness goals in no time. The Pilates method is at the core with intimate mat classes, equipment classes, the Cadillac (Trapeze table), poles, reformers and Pilates chairs. With both ladies-only and private one-to-one sessions, instructors ensure the core which is your powerhouse can be used to move the body weight with the spring-loaded carriage. A single session, group Pilates class is priced at Dhs140, and a package of 5 sessions valid for 2 months is priced at Dhs650, additionally a private session is priced at Dhs400. Located in Villa21, 53b Street, Jumeirah 1, it’s open from 7am to 8pm.
    For more information visit thehundred.ae
    Yoga La Vie

    Based on the Joseph Pilates method, customers can strengthen their core, increase their flexibility with specialised instructors and feel at ease with each class. Located on Golden Mile, Palm Jumeirah, the studio also offers barre and yoga classes for both men and women, starting from Dhs126, Dhs1,134 for ten classes package, and your first trial class is free.
    For more information visit yogalaviedubai.com
    Studio14

    This boutique fitness studio offers 50-minute Pilates Reformer sessions available for people of all ages and fitness levels. As a holistic fitness get-away, the intimates space combines traditional contemporary exercises and focuses on building a strong core, ensuring each customer feels strong, stretched and connected. This eco-friendly concept has Pilates reformer classes with level 1 and level 2, with 1 group class priced at Dhs140, and the five class package priced at Dhs400, while the private reformer Pilates is priced at Dhs420.
    For more information visit studio.ae
    Yasmin Karachiwala’s Pilates & Dance Studio (The PAD)

    With a variety of Pilates classes offered, everyone can choose from The Reformer, Wundu, The Cadillac, The Bodhi, Aerial Pilates, The MOTR, Pilates for back pain, for cricketers and. more.Pilates can also be done on the mat, with or without small equipments. The package prices are available upon request. Situated in 906, Onyx Tower 1,906, The Greens, the studio is open from Monday to Thursday 7am to 9pm, Friday 7am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 7pm and Sunday 9am to 6pm.
    For more information visit thepadfitness.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @thisisposture More

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    How this women-led startup became a sustainability trailblazer in Dubai

    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: The Waste Lab: A women-owned, impact-driven startup that is pioneering sustainability against all odds.
    In the face of skepticism and adversity, The Waste Lab has defied expectations to become a trailblazer in the realm of sustainability.
    Founder by Lara Hussein and Ceylan Uren, who made the bold decision to leave their stable jobs amidst the pandemic to confront the critical issues of food waste and climate change head-on.
    Recalling the doubts they faced, Uren, an architect, states, “Everyone said, ‘You have great stable jobs, don’t do this.”
    However, Hussein, a 38-year-old communications and customer relationship specialist, adds, “We decided it was now or never. The pandemic had us asking big questions, and we couldn’t just close our eyes and go back to our corporate lives.” Their unwavering determination led them to collaborate with farmers and soil scientists in southern Turkey, resulting in the establishment of a nature-based composting start-up. By diverting food scraps from landfills, their initiative aims to reduce methane emissions and enrich the soil.”

    Overcoming a series of obstacles, including the preference of investors for technology-heavy solutions, the founders of The Waste Lab remained resolute. Hussein explains, “Everyone was looking for a technology-heavy solution, the next shiny object, and our technology was just nature. But we realized we shouldn’t be working against nature or trying to outsmart it. We must learn from it and mimic it in a way that fits our modern age.” With the support of angel investors and sustainability-focused incubators, they launched their paid services in December 2021.
    Today, this Dubai-based company has forged lasting alliances with multiple renowned brands like Mashreq.  Through its ‘Rise everyday’ initiative, the future-forward bank has been championing The Waste Lab’s fight for a greener tomorrow.
    Their pilot urban composting site at The Sustainable City has not only become a community centre but also a permanent fixture. By acquiring farmland in 2022, they were able to expand their operations and have successfully diverted 112 tons of food waste from landfills, thereby preventing the emission of 129 tons of CO2.

    For Hussein and Uren, this is just the beginning of their journey. They now lead a team of 12 and have plans to expand their services to other emirates. Their vision includes working closely with local farmers, cultivating their own food using compost, and inspiring others to embrace the cycle of life and contribute to building a sustainable future.
    The continuous rise of The Waste Lab is a testament to the vision behind it and the leadership that’s helming it.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More

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    15 fine-dining sushi hotspots to visit in Dubai

    Complemented with gold flakes, caviar and truffle, Dubai is never short of opulent restaurants offering the finest sushi to savour for special occasions or to simply satisfy your food cravings.
    As the world celebrated International Sushi Day on June 18, 2023, this traditional Japanese staple has been part of the culinary world since day one and continues to be a popular dish enjoyed by millions around the globe over.
    So, if you’re on the lookout for the most refined and tried-and-tested sushi spots in Dubai, we’re here to help, with our exclusive guide.
    Mimi Kakushi

    Known for their cosy interiors and ultra-luxe décor, this restaurant is a must-visit with all the Japanese classics under one roof. By bringing back a hint of the 1920s, this Japanese fine-dining haven serves a host of delectable dishes such as salmon sashimi, foil gras gyoza and paired with signature cocktails to compliment the evening. Located at Four Seasons Dubai, this restaurant is hands down, one of my favourite fine-dining spots in Dubai and it’s open from Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am and Friday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm and 6pm to 2am.
    For more information visit mimikakushi.ae
    Ling Ling

    Ling Ling is more than a dining experience it’s also a destination lounge which leads you into the evening, and then into the late night through signature tastes and popular hits from the DJ. The menu features a myriad of stunning dishes including wagyu sushi, peking duck with caviar, black truffle roast duck and more. To complement the experience, the team of in-house mixologists that promise an unforgettable dining experience. Located at Atlantis The Royal, the restaurant is open from Sunday to Thursday 6pm to 1am and Friday and Saturday 6pm to 3am.
    For more information visit atlantis.com
    Netsu by Ross Shonhan

    By the displaying the traditional Japanese cooking technique of Warayaki – straw fire cooking – Netsu serves a tantalising menu of Warayaki style grills, sushi and sashimi platters, and other Japanese-style dishes, complemented by stunning interiors and a sophisticated atmosphere.The vibrant menu features a series of cocktails to complement the menu and a selection of artisanal sake curated to perfection. By using the traditional Japanese charcoal grill known as Irori, the sushi stands out from the rest, by giving the dishes a distinctive smoky flavour and enhancing the natural oils of the fish to create a unique experience. Located at Mandarin Oriental, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 6:30pm to 11:30pm, Friday 6:30pm to 12am, Saturday 12:30pm to 3:30pm and 6:30pm to 12am.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Nobu

    With an extensive menu featuring a range of signature dishes such as black cod miso, yellowtail sashimi, and shrimp tempura. Guests can also choose from a variety of sushi and sashimi dishes, including the famous Nobu Matsuhisa-style sushi rolls, which combine fresh and exotic seasonal ingredients. This premium dining experience is a perfect blend of exceptional Japanese cuisine and world-class luxury. Located at Atlantis, The Palm, this restaurant is definitely a must-visit.
    For more information visit noburestaurants.com
    Shanghai ME

    While offering a contemporary take on Cantonese cuisine from the 1930s, Shanghai Me is the epitome of Art Deco elegance, located in Dubai’s International Financial Centre. With a fusion of intricate flavours and textures, the menu showcases signature dishes from across Asia with a. contemporary touch as it’s inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia. The verdant terrace offers an enclosed space as it embodies the region’s rich heritage throughout the area with a playful twist incorporated in every element. Located in Gate Village Building 11, it’s open daily from 12pm to 4pm and 6pm to 12am.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    Buddha-Bar

    This hip venue has become one of Dubai’s most sought-after places over the years, with stunning interiors and exceptional views of Dubai Marina. With indulgent flavours of the Far East & Asia, its innovative menu enamours guests from around the globe as they enjoy eclectic tunes from the resident DJ. As a wealth of sensory experiences await you, Buddha-Bar has been around for a long time and continues to make its mark here in the emirate. Open daily from 7pm to 1am, it’s located in Grosvenor House Dubai.
    For more information visit buddhabar-dubai.com
    SushiSamba

    This restaurant is already a household name in London and Las Vegas. Having arrived in Dubai, SUSHISAMBA has already made its mark on the emirate. As an amalgamation of Japan, Brazil and Peru, the restaurant offers a mix from Japanese tempura and sushi, to Brazilian churrasco and moqueca. The open kitchen and fiery robata grill offer brilliantly roasted and flavored meats, vegetables and fish promising a shared dining experience. Located at St. Regis Hotel at The Palm Tower, the restaurant is open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 3pm and Saturday to Sunday 1pm to 3:30pm for lunch and Sunday to Wednesday 6pm to 2am and Thursday to Saturday 6pm to 3am.
    For more information visit sushisamba.com
    3Fils

    This homegrown concept was founded in late November 2016 to elevate your dining experience with a sense of comfort, discovery and sharing, serving premium Asian dishes with a Japanese twist as its focus while promoting harbour-side community-style dining. The restaurant is known for its delectable sushi crafted by a team of talented chefs. Guests can include in a variety of sushi rolls including sashimi and nigiri crafted from fresh high-quality ingredients. It’s an excellent venue for anyone looking for an exciting twist on classic sushi dishes. Located at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, it’s open daily from 12pm to 11:30pm.
    For more information visit 3fils.com
    Hōseki
    Set in an elegant setting, the restaurant features traditional Japanese design with modern luxury. Using the finest ingredients, the dishes represent the authenticity that lies at its helm with hand-rolling sushi techniques and high-quality ingredients. Designed for an intimate experience, the lavish setting features a multi-course meal in a refined setting with impeccable service. Awarded the one-Michelin star in Dubai for the second year, this gastronomic treat has only nine seats for a unique Omakase experience. Located at Bvglari Resort, it’s open from Thursday to Sunday from 1pm and for dinner at 6pm and 8:30pm from Wednesday to Sunday.
    For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
    Zuma

    After opening in 2008, here in DIFC, Zuma has indeed stood the test of time as the restaurant has won numerous accolades and gained recognition worldwide. Having stayed relevant to date, this culinary haven has made a mark in the food industry with staple dishes such as sushi and ceviche, that are loved by all. This fine-dining concept always aims to serve the highest quality products in a sophisticated environment as guests gather to share their passion for food. Located in Gate Village 6, DIFC, it’s open from daily from 12pm to 3:30pm and Saturday to Wednesday 7pm to 12pm and Thursday and Friday 7pm to 1am.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Clap

    The fine dining restaurant serves up a roll-call of Japanese classics, the extensive menu contains a range of Asian delicacies including Caviar, Oysters, Shoyu Chilean Sea Bass, and more, making sure diners will be spoiled for choice. With a vegetarian menu and plenty of tasty grape pairings, there is something for everybody at CLAP Dubai. The restaurant offers the best seats in the city with the finest sushi that Dubai has to offer. Located in Gate Village Building 11, it’s open on weekdays from 12pm to 3am and weekends from 1pm to 3am.
    For more information visit claprestaurant.com
    Roka

    Opened by the culinary genius behind Zuma, Rainer Becker, this contemporary Japanese restaurant opened back in 2020 and Sheikh Hamdan was one of the first to visit post-lockdown. Known for its contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine and sushi, this restaurant has become a firm favourite on the Dubai dining scene. Situated at Me Dubai, The Opus Business Bay, the restaurant is open daily from Monday to Friday 12pm to 3:30pm and 6:30pm to 12am, Saturday 12pm to 1am and Sunday 12pm to 12am.
    For more information visit rokarestaurant.com
    Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori

    If you’re on the hunt for some delicious Japanese food, this delectable haven is a must-visit. The restaurant promises authentic Japanese flavours and has a casual setting at its home at The Galleria Mall on Al Wasl Road. Expect plenty of super-fresh sushi and tasty grills, with interesting ingredients sourced from Japan. Located in Galleria Mall, it’s open daily from 12pm to 12am.
    For more information visit goldfishyakitori.com
    KATA

    Indulge in a delectable assortment of sushi, featuring an array of mouth-watering signature maki, nigiri, and sashimi. Ranging from 12 to 32 pieces, choose from a selection of KATA’s most tantalizing boxes which includes the most loved Makis such as the California roll, Spicy Salmon roll, Tuna Crunch roll and nigiris from yellowtail to seabass. This contemporary Japanese restaurant provides first-class experiences in the heart of iconic Downtown Dubai at Dubai Mall, with premium ingredients and a raw bar with incredible fresh seafood and sushi indoors. The restaurants os open from Monday to Friday 10am to 12am and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1am.
    For more information visit kata.ae
    Origami

    By taking inspiration from Japan’s most revered underground sushi bars, Origami serves an array of fresh and authentic dishes in a temple-like setting. This minimal space launched to reinterpret Japanese eating in Dubai, Origami was launched in 2014 to make fresh, quality-grade sushi casually accessible. Located in Dubai, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit.
    For more information visit eatorigamisushi.com
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kimkardashian More

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    TikTok’s Kinda Ibrahim on amplifying women and utilising the platform’s impact

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    47 mins ago

    Kinda Ibrahim, Regional General Manager of Operations and Marketing at TikTok, speaks to Emirates Woman passionately about the platform’s significance, her vision for the platform in the region, and her approach to amplifying strong women.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    I am an early riser. I am usually up by 6:00 am. My morning starts with a quick coffee, then doing some form of exercise (it varies). I then come back home to have breakfast, read and watch the news, and start my work day.
    Tell us how did you get your start in the industry.
    I kind of knew early on that I wanted to get into tech. My undergraduate degree was in computer science, and the first few roles I took were in programming and development. I slowly transitioned into business while I was completing my MBA but I stayed very close to tech. I held roles in analytics, project management, business operations, and partnerships in tech companies in North America and Middle East, such as Yahoo, Microsoft, Twitter and most recently, TikTok.
    What is your approach to leadership and how do you ensure these values filter down through the company?
    My leadership style has evolved over the years as I  have been managing teams for almost 15 years. My role as a leader is essentially to remove obstacles and help my team succeed and I  best describe it as a combination of coaching and democratic style. 
    How have you found social media has supported your own personal growth?
    Discovery and #LearnOnTikTok have allowed me to easily gain insightful information and learn new things, while also expanding my horizons into topics I didn’t even know I was interested in! From learning quick tricks in Excel sheets to understanding human psychology, to quick baking recipes and breathing techniques and the list goes on and on!

    How do you see TikTok and the use of social media evolve in the next 5 to 10 years?
    With the world constantly changing and the rapid evolution of technology, it’s hard to say how digital platforms and social media will evolve in the coming years.
    I know for sure that we’ll continue to showcase how TikTok is redefining entertainment by harnessing the power of a diverse and authentic community. It’s a platform where culture thrives, connecting people from different experiences, cultures, and communities.
    TikTok fuels discovery and empowers creators worldwide, providing a space for creative expression. What sets TikTok apart is its ability to entertain while fostering a rewarding sense of community. Through its innovative approach, it has transformed the way people experience and engage with entertainment in a truly global and inclusive manner, and I believe this will only continue to go from strength to strength. 
    Something I’m very excited about is the launch of Series, which we just announced, an extension of our continued commitment to providing a range of monetization opportunities that reflect the diversity of our global creator community. The feature is currently in its early phase and only available to select creators in select regions including MENA and we’ll be listening closely to our community for feedback to iterate and further enhance the feature and make it available more widely to more creators in the coming months.
    How do you aim to drive the platform forward in the region?
    One of the most important things for me at TikTok is our community, it’s truly at the heart of everything we do. Myself and the team are keen to constantly provide them with opportunities to amplify their voices and enable them to be a positive force of change in society. We are a platform that nurtures creative, authentic, and positive content communities which are diverse in age, culture, and geography, and allow everyone to have a voice.
    We also have a robust localization strategy to encourage users to create content relevant to their local cultures and trends. Our operations teams ensure TikTok provides the best community support for creativity and discovery for our local users in Arabic, and we will continue to do so.
    How do you drive women empowerment in your field?
    We have initiatives to help empower women. For example, in celebration of International Women’s Day earlier this year, we showcased the inspiring and remarkable #WomenofTikTok community in an exhibition at Al Serkal’s Le Guepard digital gallery, allowing visitors to join in celebrating the amazing Women Who Will who continue to make a positive impact on the global TikTok community and beyond through their creativity, passion, and advocacy.
    We also have the #WomenofTikTok community, which has garnered over 3 billion views globally, and brings together a diverse group of women changemakers, pioneers, leaders, and allies who are using their voices to break barriers, gender stereotypes and advance women’s equity every day.  From popular hashtags such as #WomeninSTEM (over 3 billion views) and #WomeninSports (over 1 billion views), to women entrepreneurs and small business owners who use TikTok to start and grow a business, to women activists dedicated to enhancing women empowerment and gender equality, #WomenofTikTok are supporting and connecting with one another.
    What are the different verticals that are generating views from the region – and how can we use it #IRL?
    Some of the most popular verticals in the region include #BookTok which has amassed over 2 billion views in the region over the last 6 months, where users share reviews and recommendations of their favorite books; #WhereToVisit which has had 541 million video views in the last 6 months, which acts as personalised city tour guide from the TikTok community; #WhatToWatch an entertainment hub featuring recommendations, reviews and their reactions on the top movies and series from our community and leading streaming platforms; #TikTokCookbook for our at-home chefs.
    With social media use at an all-time high, what type of content stands out to you?
    For me, content that really stands out is authentic content. The TikTok community has created a new global language around video and sound, not just text, but by sharing authentic stories, thoughts, and experiences with each other. The creativity and authenticity that lives on TikTok cannot be replicated or found anywhere else.
    Have you had any mentors along the way and if so, what knowledge did they impart?
    I have been very lucky to have many mentors along the way and I owe a lot of the success that I have to them. From pushing my limits that I did not know I had, to coaching me on topics such as communications, leadership, building alliances and stakeholder management — they have had a huge impact on my career. It is my time now to pay it forward and help people succeed and achieve their career objectives.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by TikTok More

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    Kourtney Kardashian announces pregnancy with a Blink-182 reference

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    56 mins ago

    The Kardashian-Barker clan is about to grow as Kourtney Kardashian is about to have a baby with her husband Travis Barker.
    The 44 years-old reality star married the Blink-182 drummer last April in an informal ceremony in Las Vegas — later, the duo got married officially in Italy a month later.
    The bride wore a mini Dolce Gabbana number with an extensive veil and the groom looked dapper in a tuxedo by the same Italian brand.
    While the couple have been friends and neighbours for years, they only started dating in 2021. Both Travis and Kourtney have three kids from their past relationships and are expecting their fourth child together.
    Both Travis and Kourtney have been open about their pregnancy journey and IVF struggles on the latter’s Hulu Reality show. After a long waiting period the duo announced this new in true punk rock style.
    At the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles last weekend, Kourtney chose an unorthodox way of announcing her pregnancy by holding a cardboard sign that read: “Travis I’m Pregnant.”

    The idea behind this sign reveal came from Blink-182’s 1999 hit music video, “All The Small Things,” in which a fan can be seen holding up a sign that also reads, “Travis I’m Pregnant.”
    After letting the world in on their happy news, the couple also shared a few pictures together with a heartfelt caption,“Overwhelmed with gratitude and joy for God’s blessing and plan.” More