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    12 inspiring Saudi female content creators to follow on Instagram

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    Lifeby Sarah Joseph22 mins ago VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGESSaudi Arabia is a hub for fashion, creativity and content creation. So much so, there’s an array of Saudi content creators we just can’t get enough of keeping us up to date with the latest fashion, beauty and lifestyle trends.Known for working with some of the biggest brands while also having their own business, these Saudi influencers continue to inspire us.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Insragram @thehala  More

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      Mashreq celebrated the unwavering spirit of four inspiring women this Emirati Women’s Day

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: When it comes to paving the way for women in various fields, Mashreq is taking the lead by championing such women.
      This Emirati Women’s Day on August 28, 2023, Mashreq championed four inspiring Emirati women who are playing a key role in the success of the country in their respective careers.
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      By taking the lead in their professions across various industries, these Emirati women rising every day and proving that there’s no feat that they cannot achieve.
      To delve further into their overall career, we take a look at their remarkable contributions to society.
      Nouf Omar

      As the youngest female pilot in the UAE, Nouf Omar was determined to follow the footsteps of her uncle who pursued his flying career. By challenging the status quo for women her age, she succeeded in this male-dominated field by overcoming all the obstacles her way, Beyond her profession, Omar is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur and an athlete. With hopes to reaching new horizons and touching the sky, she is paving the way for future generations through her sheer determination.
      Azeizah Ahmed Alhassani

      By challenging the conventional norms, Alhassani is the first female Emirati petroleum engineer working in the feilds of Unconventionals, who empowers the youth through her work. Overall, she has made a name for herself and entered unchartered territory through her professional determination. Besides her career, she is also a rowing champion at Abu Dhabi Sailing Club and a make-up artist as well. After graduating from university in 2016, she joined ADNOC as a chemical fluid drilling engineer at the Drilling and Logistics Business department.
      Dr Maryam Matar

      By focusing on a healthier future for the people, Dr. Maryam Matar is an Emirati physician-geneticist and founder of 5NGO. Despite the challenges face during her formative years, she dedicated her career to medicine worked persistently to spread the importance of screening and preventive care. With a commitment to work towards women empowerment and a healthier UAE, Dr. Matar is truly a medical leader in her field after following her grandmother’s footsteps.
      Captain Sahar Rasti

      As the UAE’s first female captain, Rasti mustered the courage to face her fears and overcame all the challenges to pursue her dreams. With immense determination, she learned how to swim and dive and made history by being the first in her field to achieve this dream. By expanding horizons and navigating through unchartered waters, she has made it her aim to protect the ocean, reduce waste and work towards a more sustainable future in the maritime field.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram & Supplied More

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

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      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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      6 Inspiring women on empowerment and elevating above challenges

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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      Saudi Arabia to send its first female astronaut to space in 2023

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      The Kingdom is continually making strides in the aviation and space sector.
      Per the latest announcement by the Saudi Press Agency, Saudi will be sending its first female astronaut, Rayyanah Barnawi to the International Space Station (ISS) during the second quarter of 2023.
      As another milestone for the country, Barnawi will be accompanied by a male astronaut, Ali Al Qarni. The duo will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission with the flight that is scheduled to launch from the US to the ISS.
      Rayyana Barnawi will join fellow Saudi male astronaut Ali Al-Qarni on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) “during the second quarter of 2023”, the official Saudi Press Agency said on Sunday.

      تعرّف على رائدة الفضاء: ريّانة برناويالسعودية #نحو_الفضاء
      Meet the astronaut: Rayyanah BarnawiSaudi Arabia Towards Space pic.twitter.com/o5qMWYJUwF
      — الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) February 12, 2023

      Additionally, two more astronauts, Mariam Fardous and Ali Al Gamdi, will also be trained on all mission requirements and be part of the same crew.
      After launching in 2018, this space programme has been part of Prince Salman’s 2023 vision for economic diversification. This initiative was introduced to increase the interest of graduates in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in ordered to attract the right talent within the country.

      لكل رحلة روّادها.. ولكل مهمّة أبطالها!السعودية #نحو_الفضاء
      Every journey has its pioneers, and every mission has its heroes!Saudi Arabia Towards Space. pic.twitter.com/tXOQwrtB4m
      — الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) February 12, 2023

      With other GCC countries making an impact in this field, the UAE also selected its first female astronaut, Nora AlMatrooshi as part of the UAE Astronaut programme in 2021.
      Kudos to Saudi Arabia for yet another remarkable achievement in the pipeline.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Image: Twitter @saudispace More

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      Anoud Al-Asmari becomes Saudi Arabia’s first international female referee

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Saudi women are continuing to break barriers globally, especially in the world of sports.
      By making the nation proud, Anoud Al-Asmari has become the first Saudi international female football referee to receive the international badge from the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) according to the list announced by The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) published on Thursday on Twitter.

      الاتحاد الدولي لكرة القدم يعتمد قائمة الحكام السعوديين الدوليين لعام 2023 🔽 pic.twitter.com/MSnlsM5Gom
      — الاتحاد السعودي لكرة القدم (@saudiFF) January 5, 2023

      The list of Saudi international referees for 2023 released titles for eight arena referees, nine assistant referees and six video referees with a futsal referee, making Al-Asmari the only woman on the list.
      This announcement came one year after the KSA’s women’s football team won its first-ever international match, making history. The Greens Team witness a victorious moment as they won their first international game with Seychelles in February 2022.

      As one for the books, this historical moment also received an official congratulations from the renowned football player Péle on his personal Twitter account.
      By hoping to see more Saudi women compete in sports and reach professional levels globally, the leaders are taking all the necessary steps to ensure, women receive adequate representation and are change agents for future generations and bring about new reforms in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision.
      Saudi’s first women’s football league
      In November 2020, The Kingdom officially launched its first women’s football league after a lengthy postponement due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. With a total of 24 teams with over 600 players in different cities in the country, including Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh.
      Per the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), the league aims “to empower women to encourage them to become active and to participate in sports at the community level.”
      A big kudos to Saudi Arabia’s first female referee for paving the way for women in the future!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      22 incredible women Emirates Woman championed in 2022

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      Year after year, Emirates Woman is proud to share the stories of many inspirational women from across the region and beyond and 2022 was no different.
      From philanthropic royals to budding entrepreneurs, these women show there is no hurdle too big to overcome and no challenge which can’t be solved.
      As a team, we take pride in being able to champion these incredible individuals.
      As 2022 comes to a close, we take a look at 22 influential women Emirates Woman championed throughout the year.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

      This year, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has made it her mission to support an array of different local initiatives in the fashion and creative space. The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended a number of showcases and exhibitions to show her support and learn about local artisans from the region including the Icons Exhibition, the 50th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Show Middle East in Sharjah, the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards, Dubai women’s empowerment event and more.
      Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum took a huge leap in 2020 launching her eponymous fine jewellery brand – Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery. Then, in 2021, she made the brave decision to show the face behind her label for the very first time on the cover of Emirates Woman’s April 2021 issue. This year, however, has been a big year for Sheikha Sana’s philanthropic ventures. The down-to-earth sheikha has worked closely with local communities this year in Dubai including hosting a lunch for underprivileged children, opening a new breast cancer centre in a Dubai hospital, meeting with elderly members of the community and more.
      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is no stranger to breaking records in the UAE, having become the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot back in 2019. Earlier this year, our former November 2020 cover star broke another record in the world of aviation, becoming the first female to pilot the AW609 tiltrotor, an air vehicle which combines the operational versatility of a helicopter and the performance of an aeroplane. Her Highness piloted the groundbreaking aircraft at the US helicopter headquarters of Leonardo, a global high-tech player in Aerospace, Defence and Security, located in Philadelphia.
      Her Highness Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan

      In 2022, Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan became the first GCC woman to be appointed into a global and prestigious position. Per the Abu Dhabi Media Office, Her Highness was appointed as one of the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center women leaders in the Energy and Climate Fellowship Program. Sheikha Shamma also graduated from Cambridge University this year, and also attended a number of events across the UAE in relation to sustainability and development.
      Wdeema Almheiri

      Emirati content creator Wdeema Al Mheiri has had an incredibly successful year appearing on her first magazine cover, opening her own beauty salon with her sisters and doing her first on-camera interview. For Emirati Women’s Day this year, Al Mheiri shared how she hopes to inspire future generations.
      “We have all seen Emirati women time and time again achieve their goals against all odds which is so inspiring to see as a younger Emirati woman,” she said.
      She also hopes she can be a source of inspiration for future generations, showing that there is no dream too big to pursue.
      “I hope to inspire women to take a leap of faith and to trust in their ability to achieve their dreams,” she said.
      Nora, Sarah & Dana Al Ramadhan

      For the better part of the last decade, Kuwaiti sisters Nora, Sarah and Dana Al Ramadhan have created their very own beauty empire right here in the GCC. Noticing a huge gap in the beauty space here in the Middle East, the trio launched Apotheca Beauty back in 2013, aiming to help new brands break into the region. Normally known to be the brains behind the scenes of the brands, the sisters appeared in their first-ever cover shoot in 2022. It’s a milestone that’s a big step for Nora, Sarah and Dana, who are normally championing and sharing other brands’ stories. But for The Pioneer Issue, we couldn’t think of three individuals better to share their story of building a business from the ground up, with a simple vision in mind: to bring the best in beauty to the GCC, thereby changing the landscape of the space in this region.
      Taleedah Tamer

      Taleedah Tamer first made history back in July of 2018, as the first Saudi model to walk the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. Four years on, Tamer graced the cover of our November issue for which we partnered with iconic French fashion house Louis Vuitton.
      Dr. Barbara Sturm

      For our final cover of 2022, we were proud to partner with global skin guru Dr. Barbara Sturm. In our exclusive interview with her, we discussed what it takes to build and scale without compromising on quality. After launching her eponymous line in 2003, followed by a full skincare line in 2014, Dr. Sturm – or known as BB to her nearest and dearest – has become a pioneer in the beauty sphere, with her renowned anti-inflammatory philosophy approach to skincare.
      Salama Mohamed

      Appearing on our September 2022 cover, Salama Mohamed is an exceptional example of what it means to be an entrepreneur, combining both strength and femininity to build her platform and beauty brand, which celebrated its first anniversary this year.
      Fatma Almheiri

      Fatma Al Mheiri is an individual who wears many hats. With both a creative and business acumen, she not only heads up PR at Museum of the Future, one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai, but she’s also an entrepreneur and creative.This year for Emirati Women’s Day, she pays tribute to her country and the UAE leaders who are consistently empowering women to do more and achieve their goals.
      “I’m proud to be a woman of the UAE because our leaders helped us believe in ourselves in everything we aspire to do,” she said.
      Zeynab El-Helw

      Dubai-based entrepreneur and content creator Zeynab El-Helw appeared on the cover for our July/August 2022 issue. As the founder of socially conscious brand Reborn, she shared with us how she combines sustainability and style.
      Diala Makki

      Emirates Woman was proud to start 2022 with a bang welcoming Diala Makki as our cover star for The Confidence Issue. With a focus on health and wellness, the Dubai-based journalist and presenter shared with us her fitness journey and how she channels confidence. “Confidence is a state of mind and you only reach it when you appreciate your flows and listen to your needs physically, mentally and spiritually. Don’t compare yourself to others, work constantly on becoming a better version of yourself,” she told us.
      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi

      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi is a leader in the publishing space. From being the founder and CEO of Kalimat Group to being the first Arab woman to become president of the International Publishers Association, Sheikha Bodour is leading the way for women both in the region and on a global scale. In our November issue, Sheikha Bodour shared with us how she created a niche in the UAE publishing space.
      Ingie Chalhoub

      Ingie Chalhoub is a trailblazer when it comes to business and luxury. Responsible for launching the very first Chanel boutique in the region, she has carved out an impeccable career.
      So, what’s her secret to success? “My success lies in understanding the importance of bridging the gap between the East and West,” she plainly said.
      As a true innovator and disruptor, Emirates Woman sat down with the Founder and Managing Director of Etoile Group to learn more about her business acumen and what exactly inspired her to become an entrepreneur for our September issue.
      Tania Santos Silva

      With women at its helm, Tania Santos Silvia founded Lala Diamonds to create “delicate, powerful and memorable” pieces for women who constantly inspire her. By working closely with each client, she ensures that the brand adopts a unique design process to represent what each wearer truly embodies.
      “Your fresh air is the team you choose to work with, without them you’re just another person with an idea,” she previously told Emirates Woman.
      Amna Banihashem

      By her own admission, Amna Banihashem is a “jack of all trades”. A mechanical engineer by profession with a Master’s in Moral Economy and Sustainability, a businesswoman and a philanthropist, it’s safe to say Banihashem can’t be pigeon-holed, as we learned when talking with her for Emirati Women’s Day 2022.
      However, what is her true passion and calling is horses. As an award-winning equestrian rider, Banihashem is one of the most decorated showjumpers in the region having ridden for both His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
      Sarah Alagroobi

      Artist, designer and educator Sarah Alagroobi is an individual offering insight and igniting new conversations in the region, which she highlighted with us for Emirati Women’s Day this year.
      “I don’t really view myself as a person who is breaking down stereotypes,” she said. “I think I have been blessed to be given the privileges and the knowledge, understanding and education to be able to provide a counter-narrative to the existing narrative in the UAE’s landscape.”
      Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud

      Inspired by adventure and experiences, Her Highness Princess Fahda Bander Abdullah Al Saud founded The Traveling Panther (TTP) in 2015. What initially started as a blog quickly turned into an experienced-based travel consultancy through which Princess Fahda, along with her co-founder Manayer AlSharekh, has been able to share her love for adventure with many others around the world. Emirates Woman sat down with Her Highness to find out more about TTP and her love for travel for our September issue.
      Alia Al Banna

      Appearing in our video series for Emirati Women’s Day, Alia Al Banna, co-founder and general manager of RollDXB, shared her pride to be a woman from the UAE.
      “Being an Emirati woman taught me to be brave and to have the courage to seek the unknown and the impossible,” she said. “I definitely agree with Sheikha Fatima’s word – Emirati women don’t fit a box.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      In pictures: HH Sheikha Mahra attends two prestigious events in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      22 mins ago

      Known to attend some of the UAE’s most popular events, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was welcomed as the guest of honour for two premium events.
      Sheikha Mahra shared a series of new portraits after attending the World Fashion Week event in Dubai. Seen wearing an Aztec print kimono in blue, she looked stunning as per usual with her tied-back hair and some unique jewellery to complement her look.

      Held at Madinat’s Jumeirah Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA), this elaborate five-day event held from November 1 to November 6, welcomed the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as a notable guest of honour for the launch.
      Within the same week, Sheikha Mahra made an appearance at the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards (DIAFA) 2022 annual event at the Dubai Creek Harbour on Sunday, November 4, 2022.
      Seen in a cream satin abaya with floral embroidery, Sheikha Mahra looked beyond elegant with her dark locks. The evening with all its glitz and glamour had hosts Sara Al Madani and Nour Al Din make the event even more spectacular. Guests were entertained by live performances by the likes of Emirati singer Balqees Fathi and Tunisian singer Nour Kamar.
      Swipe through the gallery of new portraits she shared after the event.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How Sheikha Bodour created a niche in the UAE’s publishing space

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      4 hours ago

      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi is a leader in the publishing space.
      From being the founder and CEO of Kalimat Group to being the first Arab woman to become president of the International Publishers Association, Sheikha Bodour is leading the way for women both in the region and on a global scale.
      Talk us through your career.
      I first began working in publishing 15 years ago. In 2017 I set up Kalimat Publishing Group, initially to create high-quality Arabic children’s books. I then established the Emirates Publishers Association with some Emirati publishers, which started my journey into the regional publishing sector, leading eventually to international work across many committees in the International Publishers Association (IPA). Two years ago, I became the President of the IPA, and only the second woman-up until now. Throughout my career, my focus has been to support women professionally and socially. So, in 2019, I set up PublisHer, a platform dedicated to helping women succeed in the publishing sector and senior positions based on merit.
      What inspired you to enter the world of publishing?
      As your readers may know, my father is a big champion of reading and culture. He developed Sharjah around the idea that culture and reading are essential to healthy and vibrant societies, so books were a huge part of my life from an early age. In this context, I had an eye-opening conversation with my firstborn daughter, who complained that the Arabic children’s books I was reading to her were boring and old-fashioned. She was much more attracted to English books then, with modern stories with beautiful or fun illustrations. It was a wake-up call for me as a mother, and I decided to do something to change this situation. That’s how I entered the world of publishing.

      You’re the CEO and founder of Kalimat Publishing Group. What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
      I think when a powerful idea drives you, something else almost takes over, so I didn’t think necessarily I wanted or planned to become an entrepreneur. I just knew I had to create attractive Arabic children’s books. When I began to follow my instinct, the process unfolded. I believe when you have a passion for something, it’s an exciting pro- cess to make that idea a reality. I always encourage people to listen to their callings and live outside their comfort zone from time to time, as amazing things could happen. My publishing career is a living example of this philosophy.
      How did your childhood/growing up shape your outlook on life and approach to business?
      My upbringing has had a profound influence on my life. My parents instilled in me and my siblings the love of books and the values of understanding and respect. Books and learn- ing allow people to live in other people’s shoes and take a deep dive into their contexts, which is a vital step toward acceptance and tolerance of differences. More importantly, it leads to an appreciation of the richness of the human experience, no matter what the language or colour of people. These values have in- influenced my approach to business. I am deeply rooted in my culture, but I am always open to listening to new ideas, I empathize with the challenges of others, and I accept differences. This has helped me to develop a balanced view of the world and allowed me to work successfully at a global level.
      You’re a trailblazer in the publishing world. What’s the key to success?
      Focus and determination. Throughout my 15 years in publishing, I thought of stopping and moving on to something else because the hurdles were not only complicated, but they didn’t need to be there in the first place. But my determination to continue and focus on the mission helped me deal with those moments and keep moving forward.
      In terms of books, what are the most special reads you have collected over the years?
      I have eclectic tastes, but to summarize, I would include some of the Kalimat Group titles, which I am proud we published. I also love reading new young Arab writers and sometimes discovering old texts that have only been recently uncovered and published. Elif Shafak is a good friend and someone I admire deeply, so I always read her books. There are also some excellent young writers coming out of Africa too. I love reading their perspectives and about their lives through books. There is a real drive now in the publishing industry to have a much wider variety of voices, so I am very much drawn to reading about different cultures, female writers, and other perspectives. I’m also very interested in spiritual matters and books that try to help us understand ourselves and the planet, so new thinking and ideas always appeal to me.
      You founded PublisHer in 2019. Talk us through this concept.
      The seeds of PublisHer first began when I started travelling internationally on behalf of the International Publishers Association. I was often quite shocked to be the only woman at senior-level meetings. That’s quite something for a woman coming from what is perceived to be a male-dominated culture. When I spoke to my female peers from different parts of the world, I realized we had similar stories. There was and still is a great deal of frustration because women made up most of the publishing workforce, but the picture at the senior management level told a completely different story. So, we began to meet, at the sidelines of book fairs, to see how we could help each other as women in the industry. It evolved into PublisHer, a movement and a platform that continues to go from strength to strength in empowering female publishers throughout their careers. We launched a few initiatives to address the main challenges facing female publishers. For example, we launched the diversity and inclusion practices tool kit, which helps publishing businesses assess their hiring and HR practices to implement a more inclusive approach. We also launched a mentoring and a reverse mentoring programme, through which leading female publishers and young talent learn from one another through a structured mentoring programme.
      A major milestone for you was being appointed to lead the International Publishers Association (IPA).
      It’s an incredible achievement for yourself and for the region. Would you agree? I was delighted to be elected as President of the IPA. For me, it is a testament to the strength of my upbringing and my roots in Sharjah and the UAE. I do feel a sense of achievement, even more so because I was only the second woman in this role and the first Arab Muslim in 125 years. I sincerely hope to inspire other women in publishing or elsewhere to strive to achieve their ambitions or make the best of their gifts and talents.
      “The Arab world has some incredible women achieving great things, so it’s time to get the message out there and continue creating a truly diverse and inclusive international community in all sectors.”
      Through this role, how do you hope to represent Arab women on an international scale?
      I think what is important to me is to send out the message that it’s okay to be yourself and to have a successful international career. If I can be a role model for others or just inspire one single woman to step forward and find her place on the international stage, then I would be so proud. We are a global family, and there are room enough for other points of view, opinions, and beliefs – the most important thing is that we respect and try to understand one another. The Arab world has some incredible women achieving great things, so it’s time to get the message out there and continue creating a truly diverse and inclusive international community in all sectors.
      As well as being a businesswoman, you’re also an avid philanthropist. What causes have you been involved in over the years?
      I focus most of my philanthropic work on literacy and book accessibility. Through the Kalimat Foundation, which we established in 2016, we bring Arabic language books into the hands of children who have been the victims of war or forced displacement. We also pay particular attention to visually impaired children by including books in accessible formats such as braille or audiobooks. I am happy to say that our work has brought a smile to the faces of thousands of children in the region and other parts of the world. Most importantly, we gave them the powerful tool of literacy, so they have a fair chance to turn around their lives in the future.
      Would you agree the UAE really is pioneering women in business and other organisations?
      Absolutely. Over the past ten years, we have seen a great deal of change with female ministers and ambassadors appointed and pioneering businesswomen in all sectors emerging on the scene. The UAE has successfully created an environment where women are accepted and welcomed in these roles while ensuring a healthy balance with our culture and values. This is why UAE has become an example now in the region and why others are looking at our story to inspire positive change and progress in their communities.
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