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    6 famous celebrities you didn’t know had Arab roots

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    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 mins ago

    Amongst the glitz and glamour of celebrities, there are many well-known figures who have Arab genes, many of whose roots might come as a surprise to you.
    Steve Jobs

    The late world-famous Apple founder was adopted by Paul and Clara Jobs, but his biological father was Abdulfattah Jandali, a Syrian Muslim.
    Ariana Grande

    Back in 2014, the famous popstar tweeted: “Just found out my grandparents are heavily Greek and part North African… I thought I was Italian… Who am I? My whole life is a lie.” Turns out she took a genetic test, which revealed that she has Moroccan, Tunisian, or Algerian roots from one side of the family.
    MIKA
    Image Twitter @mikasounds
    The famous British singer, known for his hits such as Relax, Take it Easy and Love Today, was born in Beirut to a Lebanese mother and an American father. Due to the unforeseen circumstances in Lebanon, he was forced to flee during the war and moved to Paris and then UK.
    Gigi Hadid & Bella Hadid

    These supermodel sisters are hugely vocal when it comes to supporting Palestine, which is where their father, Mohamed Hadid, was born. Gigi and Bella Hadid are both incredibly proud of their roots, making it known often.
    Salma Hayek

    The American-Mexican actress, who’s previously starred in some gripping films, has never been shy about hiding her Arab roots and proudly claims her heritage. Her father is a mix of Mexican and Lebanese descent, hailing from the city of Baadat, Lebanon. Hayek’s first name also means peace and calm in Arabic.
    Shakira

    Latina-Arab singer Shakira, who’s songs have gained worldwide popularity, hasn’t forgotten her Arab roots which has also majorly influence on her musical career. From her belly dancing skills being showcased to supporting the super bowl performance, the loved singer was born in Colombia to a Spanish mother and a Lebanese father.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @shakira  More

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      9 famous celebrities with their lookalike children

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      From an uncanny resemblance to an undeniable touch of familiarity, the offsprings of these celebrities are a spitting image of their parents.
      So much so, some of them could even be twins. Hence, we take a look at celebrities who have inherited their looks from their mother’s including similar mannerisms.
      Emirates Woman has rounded up a list of A-listers and their lookalike kids, some of which you’ll have to do a double-take.
      Chrissy Teigen and Luna

      Luna, daughter of Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, is regularly seen with her A-list mum. Luna is regularly seen on her mother’s Instagram, from pool selfies to celebrating occasions, they look absolutely chic, every time they pose for the camera. The duo definitely stand out in the world of celebrities.
      Catherine Zeta-Jones and Carys Douglas

      When the actress shared a breathtaking snapshot of her daughter by the beach, fans were stunned to see the resplendent features of her little one.
      Reese Witherspoon and Ava Phillippe

      With a photo shared on the actresses’ Instagram page, her fans found it hard to believe the age difference and mother-daughter relationship. With this holiday-themed image breaking the internet, the duo almost look like twin sisters.
      Gwyneth Paltrow and Apple Martin

      The founder of Goop and her daughter have been seen on social media numerous times, with her little one also promoting the beauty brand’s new eCommerce line while she also embarks on a career of her own. From bonding during at-home workouts to lounging under the sun, the two get along really well while we can’t get over how alike they look.
      Elizabeth Hurley and Damian Hurley

      By inheriting his mother Elizabeth Hurley’s striking looks, Damien has followed in his mother’s footsteps starting a career in modelling and acting.  By taking after his mum, as shown in different campaigns, this model is also known for his long tresses and soft features.
      Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber

      While taking after her supermodel mother, Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford could easily be mistaken for sisters. Just like her mother, Gerber has gone on to make a name for herself in the fashion industry working with big brands including Versace, Marc Jacobs and Chanel.
      Zoë Kravitz and Lisa Bonet

      While turning heads as they walked the red carpet together to sweet snapshots shared on social media, Lisa Bonet and Zoë Kravitz share a striking resemblance, taking twinning to a whole other level.
      Yolanda and Bella Hadid

      With Yolanda passing down her Dutch genes to her famous daughters of the moment, there’s no doubt that Bella Hadid has received her mother’s strong features and grit when it comes to pursuing her dreams in the modelling industry.
      Kate Moss and Lila Grace

      With near-identical model looks inherited from her mother, Lila Grace quickly entered the industry by already becoming the face of Marc Jacobs Beauty at a very young age as she embraces her mother’s flawless features.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, Getty More

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      Saudi National Day 2024: 20 incredible women making a difference

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      Today, September 23, 2024, marks the 94th official Saudi National Day.
      As the Kingdom’s loyalty continues to shine through, this special occasion is a day to celebrate the country’s greatness and the importance of having women in high positions.
      When is Saudi National Day?
      Saudi National Day is celebrated annually on September 23 to commemorate the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz in 1932. The day marks the establishment of the modern Saudi state and the renaming of the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
      Since the unification of the country by King Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud in 1932, the Kingdom encourages national pride and has been celebrating Saudi National Day annually since September 23, 2005.
      Women are a key part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is why this Saudi National Day, Emirates Woman is highlighting 20 incredible women you should know about.
      Furthermore, we celebrate all the women from the Kingdom this Saudi National Day and the amazing work they do for their country.
      HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

      Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States of America, HRH Princess Reema Bint Bandar, IS the first woman in the country’s history to serve in the role of Ambassador. As part of her philanthropic work, Princess Reema became a founding member of the Zahra Breast Cancer Awareness Association in 2007. She has also been a member of the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee since 2017. Combining all her achievements together, she’s truly an inspiring role model to many.
      HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud Al Saud

      Her Royal Highness Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud is always aiming to give back to society in whatever way she can. Earlier this year, Alwaleed Philanthropies, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, launched a new homegrown brand in support of Saudi female artisans. The project entitled Mizwada is also being spearheaded by Princess Lamia, Alwaleed Philanthropies’ Secretary-General. While being known for her role as a philanthropist in society, Princess Lamia has previously shared her desire to change the world, and the newly launched brand, Mizwada aims to work with female artisans in order to promote the concept of locally resources materials that reflect the Kingdom’s heritage.
      HRH Princess Al Joharah Talal Al Saud

      Her Royal Highness Princess Al Joharah Bint Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the Chairwoman of ATLAL ALMAJD where she focusses on digital marketing, online advertising and online trading, whilst also supporting up and coming businesses. She’s constantly inspiring women at various summits around the globe and sharing her experiences as a Saudi entrepreneur.
      Aseel Al-Hamad

      Aseel Al-Hammad became the first woman to be appointed to the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation becoming the voice of female motorists in Saudi Arabia. With not much exposure to driving due to the previous legal restriction for women driving, Aseel took full advantage of the opportunities that came her way and proved to be a success.
      Noha Al-Yousef

      After beginning her professional career while being in her second year of university, Noha Al-Yousef was appointed as the youngest Saudi CEO of a group of companies in the Kingdom during her final year of studies. She went on to found the Ithraa Consulting group in 2009, located in Jeddah, which is primarily used to provide consultancy services and studies in the field of developing Saudi female employment and projects.
      Emon Shakoor

      This tech entrepreneur launched Blossom, which is the first accelerator that aims to empower women and enable startups in the Kingdom. Emon Shakoor was also previously a neuroscience researcher at the University of California and has also overseen hundreds of Pfizer clinical drug trials across North America, while being a savvy businesswoman and seizing every opportunity.
      Dina Al-Tayeb

      Being the first Saudi woman to complete ironman, Dina Al-Tayeb is a practising dentist who has completed over 100 triathlons. She made history qualifying for The Ironman World Championship as it is considered one of the most difficult races in the world.
      Yasmeen Aldabbagh

      Yasmin Al Dabbagh is known as the ‘fastest woman in Saudi Arabia’. She participated in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics this year representing her country with pride having to carry the Kingdom’s flag at the opening ceremony and inspiring an entire generation of female athletes. Through immense dedication and hard work, she achieved her long-shot dream of participating in this large scale event this year and making her country proud.
      Raha Moharrak

      Known for her remarkable achievements, Raha Moharrak is the youngest Arab and first Saudi woman to climb Mount Everest. Her trailblazing journey has inspired several young women as she’s also climbed nine of the world’s most famous summits. The 34-year-old continues to inspire the next generation of thrill-seekers with her note-worthy strides.
      Reema Juffali

      Saudi Arabia’s first female formula four driver is taking the world of motorsport by storm. From her first major win at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit in 2018 to climbing up the ranks, Reema Juffali is definitely a pioneer in her industry. She’s always ready to take on new challenges by fueling her passion on the tracks. She’s also now the only female driver in the British F3 Championship.
      Mishaal Ashemimry

      Being the first Saudi woman to join NASA, Mishaal Ashemimry’s title of being GCC’s first female aerospace engineer continually inspires young women as this wish to make strides in this industry. She’s even set up her own company Mishaal Aerospace and has set her sights on nothing below the stars.
      Marriam Mossalli

      Marriam Mossalli is a Jeddah-based entrepreneur who’s the founder of luxury consultancy firm Niche Arabia. She has been a long-standing supporter of the local fashion industry in the Kingdom and belongs to a generation of Saudi women who embody a new-age spirit. Back in 2018, Marriam published her second book Under The Abaya: Street Style From Saudi Arabia which lays emphasis on the diverse Saudi fashion scene. The book became a sell-out success. One hundred per cent of the proceeds of the book scales were used to create several academic scholarships to promote women empowerment.
      Honayda Serafi

      With her designs that have reached a level of global recognition, Honayda Serafi’s namesake brand is constantly aiming to contribute to reducing waste that’s a by-product from the fashion industry. While embodying her traditional roots, the pieces are a combination of traditions with modern craftsmanship, with a core mission to empower women as supporting local fashion continues to be at the helm of it all.
      Lillian Ismail

      While being recognized as Saudi Arabia’s youngest jewellery designer, and being born and raised in the Kingdom, Lillian Ismail reignites the flame of her heritage by blending contemporary elements with Islamic-inspired concepts in her designs. She launched her namesake jewellery line back in 2013, with all her designs being handmade piece by piece locally in her hometown, Jeddah. In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “The fashion scene in Saudi Arabia always keeps growing, but what I appreciate the most, are the efforts put in developing traditional concepts in design and creating unique contemporary versions of them.”
      Shahd Al-Shehail

      Founder of the ethical fashion label Abadia, Saudi designer Shahd Al-Shehail combines traditional crafts with contemporary designs in garments that are hand-embroidered within the Kingdom. With some of her pieces previously being worn by Queen Rania of Jordan, the fashion designer focuses on luxury fabrics and handcrafted details, that seamlessly blend culture through contemporary designs, as it preserves the age-old values through the brand’s continued commitment.
      Nora Al Shaikh

      Born with the desire to cater to the modern woman, Jeddah-based designer Nora Al Shaikh has carved out a niche for herself with strong architectural lines and rich colour combinations which are emulated through all her pieces. Nora launched her luxury ready-to-wear line in 2012 and continues to fuse Saudi heritage with a global perspective. In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “Today I think a lot about how I can empower and give confidence to women around me through my clothes.”
      Arwa Al Banawi

      In just a few years, Arwa Al Banawi has become one of the most prominent designers in the fashion industry. She has beautifully blended traditional tailoring with a Middle Eastern sensibility in each of her designs. By continually working to be a part of a sustainable future, Arwa is now focusing on the multicultural side of Saudi Arabia by adapting her designs to fit accordingly. In her most recent collaboration, she partnered with Adidas to produce the Arwa Al Banawi Forum Lo sneaker.
      Fatima Al-Banawi

      The Saudi Arabian filmmaker and actress is best known for her popular television series and films Barakah Meets Barakah, A Blink of an Eye and Paranormal. She’s a renowned storyteller in the Kingdom and is continually breaking the social stigmas assigned to her country. By giving several people in her country a voice, her films have also made an impact in their own rightful manner globally. She was also recently chosen to be Cartier’s ambassador for the Middle East.
      Amy Roko

      While breaking stereotypes, Amy Roko has kept her identity a secret while still working on massive campaigns for brands such as Benefit Cosmetics, Levi’s and more. While overcoming all the hurdles, she’s managed to gain the love of all her fans as she continues to create fun content.
      Bayan Linjawi

      This entrepreneur has gained a wide social media fanbase as she shares her favourite fashion pieces and is also the founder of the online concept store 31store.sa, In addition, she’s also the founder of Blossom MENA, an accelerator that aims to connect and foster technology.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Emirati Women’s Day 2024: Four inspiring mark this special occasion

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      Life

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 min ago

      Four women, four incredible stories.
      On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day 2024, we invited four inspiring women, pioneers in their fields of expertise to share their remarkable journeys.
      This year, we championed Sahar Al Rasti who has etched her name into maritime history as the first Emirati woman to captain a ship for Abu Dhabi Maritime Services Company. Her journey, marked by dedication and perseverance, has shattered gender stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of Emirati women in the maritime industry.
      Then, Dr. Eng. Suaad Al Shamsi, a name synonymous with aviation engineering in the UAE, has carved a unique path in a field traditionally dominated by men. As the first Emirati woman to embark on this career, she has not only defied societal expectations but has also become a beacon of inspiration for countless young women aspiring to pursue their dreams in STEM.

      Also, known for setting new standards in the culinary world, Chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi is the first Emirati Pastry Chef in the UAE.
      Finally, at 26 years old, Marwa AlHashmi has established herself in the industry through her multi-disciplinary portfolio. As an endurance horse rider, part-time model, TV presenter and actress, she’s on her path to achieving her goals.
      Why does it fall on the 28th of August every year?
      The date of August 28th holds historical significance as it marks the founding of the UAE’s General Women’s Union in 1975. This institution has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and empowerment of Emirati women.
      What’s the theme for this year?
      Each year, Emirati Women’s Day is celebrated under a specific theme that highlights a particular aspect of women’s contributions. The theme for 2024 is yet to be officially announced, but it is expected to focus on the continued progress and achievements of Emirati women in various fields.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      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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      Emirati Women’s Day 2024: Meet Marwa AlHashmi, an endurance horse rider

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      54 mins ago

      At 26 years old, Marwa AlHashmi has established herself in the industry through her multi-disciplinary portfolio. As an endurance horse rider, part-time model, TV presenter and actress, she’s on her path to achieving her goals.
      On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day 2024, we invited four inspiring women, pioneers in their fields of expertise to share their remarkable journeys.
      With Her Highness Sheikha Fatma bint Mubarak playing a key role as her inspiration, atheletes like herself have been championed in the industry.
      “For endurance horse riders there’s also a race by her name, the Sheikha Fatma bint Mubarak race, overall, she is the meaning of a powerful Emirati woman,” Alhashmi shares.
      Whilst narrating her journey, she elaborated on how young Emirati women need faliure in order to succeed. “The UAE has given young women the platform to flourish and hence they have to use that to their advantage.”
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      While not being afraid to seize the opportunities, she still has a lot more to accomplish at a young age and has a goal of being internationally recogised as a media personality.
      When it comes to success, Alhashmi has finished a 160km race despite her health conditions, she has completed it twice, sharing this as a proud moment.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Location: PAUS; Café & Wellness StudioVideographer: @markmthw and Ahmed Abdelwahab More

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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
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      in lifestyle and culture

      5 noteworthy things to know about Jordan’s Princess Salma

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      53 mins ago

      Princess Salma bint Abdullah of Jordan is the third child of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Her Majesty Queen Rania.
      At just 23-years-old, she’s already achieved an incredible amount and even has some groundbreaking achievements under her belt.
      As she continues to step out into a more public role, here is everything you need to know about Jordan’s history-making Princess Salma.
      She’s made history for women in Jordan

      The beginning of 2020 saw Princess Salma bint Abdullah of Jordan becoming the first female jet pilot in the Jordanian Armed Forces after completing her preliminary pilot training on a fixed-winged aircraft. His Royal Highness King Abdullah II, the Supreme Commander of the Jordan Armed Forces pinned the badge to his daughters military uniform, giving his daughter her wings.
      She has a shared connection with Prince William and Prince Harry

      Princess Salma graduated from the UK’s prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 2018 when she was just 18 years old. Prince William and Prince Harry also both attended Sandhurst, with Harry completing his commissioning in 2005 and William a year later in 2006. Princess Salma also following in her father and elder brother, Crown Prince Hussein’s footsteps, as well as her older sister Princess Iman’s. Princess Salma was the third child of Queen Rania and King Abdullah II to complete the course at the military academy.
      Her birthday is almost identical to her older sister’s

      Princess Iman is four years older than Princess Salma, however, their birthdays fall just one day apart. Born on 26 September 2000, Princess Salma celebrates her birthday one day before her elder sister, who was born on 27 September 1996.  Due to the close proximity of their birthdays, last year Queen Rania dedicated an Instagram post jointly to the sisters to mark their birthdays, which are just one day apart.
      The caption read, “When my girls are near, love and laughter are never far behind. Happy birthday Iman and Salma.”
      Princess Salma has a close relationship with her brother, Crown Prince Hussein

      Taking to Instagram, Crown Prince Hussein, the oldest of the four siblings, frequently posts about his sister’s achievements. Most notably, when Princess Salma passed-out from Sandhurst the eldest brother posted a photo of himself and Princess Salma, captioning it, “We are always proud of you. With the family at Salma’s Commissioning Parade at Sandhurst today.”
      Her grandfather was the founder of modern Jordan
      The late King Hussein bin Talal, who reigned from 1952 until his death in 1999, was the grandfather of Princess Salma. Known to his people as Al-Malik Al-Insan, or ‘The Humane King’, King Hussein bin Talal was recognized for his work to improve the life of Jordanians. Crown Prince Hussein is also named after his grandfather.

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