VOL 1 • ISSUE 7 • SEPTEMBER 2021
Expat stories. What’s yours?
‘My favorite type of comedy makes you laugh, then makes you think.’ -- MINA LICCIONE, DUBAI’S ‘QUEEN OF COMEDY’
They call him ‘Maestro’ DMITRY BELOKUROV CHANGES PEOPLE’S LIVES WITH HIS GUITAR ONE NOTE AT A TIME
Eyad and Mai
– LIKE OIL AND LEMON THAT SPICE UP LIFE AT ZEIT W LAMOON
‘I started out as a phone operator in a Cairo hotel’ – SAMEH EL AMRI, SEASONED HOTELIER
The ‘incurable workaholic’
ANASTASIYA GOLOVATENKO GIVES UP GREAT JOB, PACKS BAGS AND HEADS TO DUBAI IN 5 DAYS TO ‘START FROM SCRATCH’
‘I WAS TOLD BY NUMEROUS PEOPLE THAT I CAN NEVER BE SUCCESSFUL’
MOHSEN ABDULQAHER ALMOUSAWI CEO, Victoria Beauty perfumes
From the publisher
TABLE OF CONTENTS
This edition is once again a great collection of good reads from the people that make up Dubai. From Naila Kiani, Dubai banker who also was the first female Pakistani mountaineer to conquer Gasherbrum-II at over 8,000 meters above sea level, to Dmitry Belokurov, the guitar virtuoso from Russia, who changes people’s lives one note at a time, and Sameh El Amri, seasoned hotelier, who started out as a phone operator in a Cairo hotel, there indeed are lots of interesting stories for everyone. This edition also features New Yorker, Mina Liccione, aka, Dubai’s “Queen of Comedy,” who talks about her style of making people laugh; Anastasiya Golovatenko, the ‘incurable workaholic’ who gave up a great job in Kiev, packed her bags and headed to Dubai in just five days to “start from scratch;” and Rosa Bullock, the PR guru from the UK who gets her kick turning concepts into budding businesses.
STAFF BOX Publisher Gabriel John Rimando
Editor Jojo Dass
Sales and Marketing Manager Elaine Anne ‘Bella’ Marbella
Contributing Writers Joshua Trias Amanda Hensley Zainab Shahid
Graphic Designer Allan Caragao
Photographer Than Dumas Find us at
Mina Liccione: Say hello to Dubai’s ‘Queen of Comedy - page 4
https://www.dubaivibesmagazine.ae/ https://www.facebook.com/DubaiVibesMagazine.ae
dubaivibesmag dubaivibesmagazine DubaiVibesMagazine.ae Dubai Vibes Magazine
Anastasiya Golovatenko: The ‘incurable workaholic’. - page 8
Eyad and Mai, who are like oil and lemon that spice up life at Zeit w Lamoon; and Ganesh and Shweta, the father-anddaughter team behind the chic Zebra Café are ice cream on a cake.
ON THE COVER
Read on. Enjoy. Indulge.
Dmitry Belokurov: They call him ‘Maestro,’ playing the guitar and changing people’s lives one note at a time. - page 21
“Facing different hardships and challenges from a young age helped shape the man I am today,” Mohsen Abdulqaher Almousawi tells Dubai Vibes Magazine. “I was told by numerous people how I can never be successful ,” he added. Yet today Mohsen has bragging rights to multiple degrees in engineering – four diplomas, a bachelor’s degree and two master’s. He is also currently working on his Ph.D. In addition, Mohsen has also joined the aviation industry by becoming a pilot back in 2016.
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
3
Say hello to Dubai’s ‘Queen of Comedy’ Mina Liccione shares how her career started
“
I was hosting a charity event and there were technical difficulties, so the organizer pushed me on stage and shouted ‘Do something funny!” recalls Mina Liccione. And so, she made fun of the situation, shared some funny stories, did some “crowd work” and the rest, as the cliché goes…is history. Born in Rochester, New York, Mina moved to Manhattan when she was 17, having big dreams of getting on Broadway. “Thankfully I was casted in the show ‘Stomp’ and was able to tour the world performing for a few years,” she says, referring to the iconic New York stage show that’s full of dance, music, theatrical performance and visual comedy blended together. “Then the show ended up taking me to San Francisco, California where I stayed for four years before moving to Dubai in 2008. It’s been quite an adventure!” Mina said. “I love Dubai. It’s where I met my husband and where my twin baby boys were born. I love the diversity, the safety, and of course, the food!” Comedy runs in the Liccione family.
4
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
“My father and grandfather are hilarious. You got to have a sense of humor living in New York and boy, did they! We always watched comedy shows and movies and then would reenact them at home. We’d sing, dance, cook marinara sauce and laugh! Comedy has always been my way of life. And now, I’m even married to a fellow comedian,” Mina says. But there’s more to Mina’s comedy than meets the eye, apparently. “My favorite type of comedy makes you laugh and then it makes you think. Comedy is such a great outlet for social commentary. Every day is filled with new observations, experiences, mishaps. Life reflects art. As long as I’m alive, I’ll be writing jokes and sharing stories! “You never know what the audience is going through, so to make them laugh is a beautiful thing. Many times, folks have stayed after the show and said a loved one recently passed or they’ve been going through a tough time and really needed a good laugh. It’s humbling and an honor to be able to lift people’s spirits,” she says. What does she get her energy? “Caffeine, lots of caffeine! And the continued love and excitement I have when I get to take the stage and be on-set,” Mina says. Mina went to Dubai to help pioneer a comedy scene and launch “Dubomedy” with fellow comedian Ali Al Sayed, who is now her husband. The mission was to use comedy as a tool to bring people of diverse cultural and religious backgrounds together for a good laugh and better understanding, she says. Asked what keeps her going, Mina said: “Faith and my undying passion for making art and spreading laughter. When I start to feel that I’m losing my faith everything else starts to crumble, so it’s essential that stay focused and connected through the madness.” Her life philosophy is encapsulated in the great Muhammad Ali’s famous quote: “The service you do for others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” “Follow your heart in all that you do, and try to see the humor in life. On those days whether you don’t know whether to laugh or cry, choose to laugh!” On weekends, Mina spends time laughing, playing and making pizza with her three- year-old sons. “They’re so full of life and love. They’re our everything,” she says. Mina has an upcoming show dubbed, “Growing Up Ringside.”
“I created and debuted this multimedia solo show earlier this year and it shares funny and heartfelt stories from my childhood in New York, boxers and wise guys, Broadway dreams and broken bones all the way to my move to Dubai and adjusting to life and performing comedy in a Muslim country,” she says. She’ll be doing the show one more time in Dubai on September 18, 2021 at the Mall of the Emirates’ (MOE) The Theater before bringing it home to New York. “I’m so happy to say that it’s been chosen to close out the KeyBank Rochester Fringe Festival as well as be part of Frigid NYC’s Fall Season. It’s all full circle! Best homecoming ever,” she says.
‘My favorite type of comedy makes you laugh, and then it makes you think. Comedy is such a great outlet for social commentary. Life reflects art. As long as I’m alive, I’ll be writing jokes and sharing stories!’
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
5
An adventurous backpacker calls Dubai home Nick Grassick, a successful real estate broker, used to tour Australia on a backpack, returning previously rented camper vans and not knowing which city he would end up in.
“
One of my favorite memories of Australia,” says Nick Grassick, managing partner at ph Real Estate Brokers, a Dubai-based property expert, “was spending six months in Byron Bay, a coastal town near the border of New South Wales and Queensland…that place really is God’s country.” “This was a stay much longer than the originally planned seven days,” Nick, born and raised in Birmingham in the United Kingdom (UK) and has worked in real estate for nearly 30 years of his life, said. “My favored mode of travel while backpacking was contacting the camper van rental companies and inquiring about ‘relocations,’” Nick, who calls Dubai home for the past 12 years, during which period he has become a husband and father, added. He further explained that recently-rented camper vans, essentially, had travelled from point of origin to their destination, and somehow needed to be returned to their point of origin. “I became that driver to return it. The fact it cost roughly AUD1 per day to hire on the return run was eclipsed by the fact I never knew which city I would be returning it to until I was booked.
6
“The sense of adventure travelling like this was incredible,” Nick said. Nick knows the real estate world like the back of his hand, having worked selling residential semi-detached homes in the quiet suburbia of Birmingham, to being based in Sydney, Australia where he was engaged in the city’s commercial real estate, and now Dubai. “The most enjoyable difference working in Dubai (compared) with other cities is the vast diversity of nationalities and cultures we work with. Marketing and selling property is largely similar the world over, the opportunity to engage with and work alongside the diverse client base we have in UAE provides an enjoyable challenge, assimilating to nationality and cultural nuances,” said Nick. He added: “Over the past 12 years, I have seen the Dubai property market mature and become much more robust in terms of both legislation and process management. Arguably the most important part of the home-buying process has evolved from decentralized, independent broker-created contracts to a system in place today, whereby contracts are created, reviewed and approved by a smartphone-based application. This level of sophistication
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
is yet to be seen in markets considered much more mature.” Nick said few people are able to purchase their dream home from a cold start, “so I’d recommend taking incremental steps and buying a home which suits their needs. “We’re fortunate to live in a city which is as dynamic as Dubai, both in terms of advancements and the incredible fluidity of property values. Everyone has an opportunity to reap profit from buying and selling property in such an environment, a process we have managed for many long-standing clients, contributing to their personal wealth and resulting in much broader purchasing power,” he said. Over the years, Nick has lived in most of the expat communities in Dubai. “Initially, I lived in Downtown (at a time when) Burj Khalifa wasn’t quite finished, Dubai Mall hadn’t opened and the only developments were Burj Residences, South Ridge and 8 Boulevard Walk. “From Downtown, I moved to Dubai Marina and when I became a father, moved to The Lakes. Home is now Palm Jumeirah, the more relaxed beach lifestyle perfectly suits what I now look for when not at work,” he said.
‘I had booked a one-way ticket and it was the first stop of a two year aroundthe-world trip. I didn’t move past my first port!’
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
7
The ‘incurable workaholic’ Anastasiya Golovatenko gave up a great job, packed her bags and left Kiev – in just 5 days! – for Dubai to start from scratch as a PR executive. 8
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
“
One sunny day in August 2012, I got an offer to join a PR agency in Dubai, which was a great opportunity no young professional could resist,” recalls Anastasiya Golovatenko, account director, Sherpa Communications.
agency’s various operations, made sure I was there for my team at every step, even if it meant waking up for business calls at 6am. Alhamdulillah, I am blessed to be surrounded by the love and support of my family and friends.
“Needless to say, I jumped at it, especially as I was determined to test my skills and professionalism in Dubai, one of the world’s most promising markets. So, in the span of 5 days, I resigned, packed my luggage and came to Dubai,” added Anastasiya, who graduated with honors from Kiev Institute of International Relations, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Public Relations & Analytics.
“Oh! I left the best for last. I had a business pitch on the day of I gave birth to my son,” Anastasiya said.
“Everyone who knows me will tell you I’m deeply and irrevocably in love with PR. I’m an incurable workaholic. Some may stress from tons of new information, the constantly changing nature of tasks, and pending deadlines breathing down their necks, but this is what we love,” she added. She also considers herself as belonging to a special class of women: “crazy mums.” “I found out that I was pregnant when the UAE first announced its COVID-19 lockdown. It was a stressful period by itself for many, so I didn’t tell neither clients nor anyone outside the family till I was 9 months pregnant. Some people only found out after I gave birth. Throughout my pregnancy, I worked to support our
She said Spain stole her heart, but apparently, Dubai got a good hold of her. “Many of us come here saying ‘I’m just here for this project.’ But then we find our niche and stay,” Anastasiya said. In Dubai, she also met the man whom she eventually got married to. “When I met him, I asked him: ‘Why did it take you so long to find me?’ (laughing). Funny enough, our home cities are close to each other, but we met 5,000km away from them. I think I won the ‘jackpot’ as my husband is a workaholic and a ‘crazy’ soul like me. We support each other, come up with crazy ideas, dream big and laugh together loudly. “He’s crazy…in a good impressive incredible way. His life journey is the epitomé of a roller-coaster ride. Born and raised in a small town near Moscow, he became the youngest senior manager in his company, got a promotion which entailed a move to Dubai. Fast forward: after building a great corporate career and climbing the ladder to the top, he decided to resign and start from scratch as an entrepreneur. I told you he’s crazy, right?” Anastasiya said. Anastasiya is involved in various community groups in the UAE, where she helps individuals and businesses master PR tools for their diverse projects. She is also involved in a number of mentorship programs launched by UAE start-up incubators. She is also a keen and active business mentor and communications advisor at TiE Dubai, an entrepreneurship organization with a global footprint; and an advisor at JBM, a mentorship platform focused on helping aspiring entrepreneurs in the UAE and across the Middle East region turn their disruptive ideas into reality, Anastasiya is a co-lead for TiE Women MENA, a global program aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs, especially those who are just starting their journey.
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
‘Lacking a deep understanding of the local market, strong media relations, and confidence in English, the first year proved to be an intense and challenging ride, especially after my successful managerial position back home.’
9
Rex Venard Bacarra, Ph.D. From a small town boy with a funny accent being drugged unconscious in the big city, to becoming a monk, and finally a well-loved Dubai educator having his day with a falcon at a safari trip. By Jojo Dass
T
hey say curiosity killed a cat. And for Dr. Rex Bacarra, who holds a Ph.D. in philosophy, that might have been a warning that came a little too late back in his younger years when, raring to be in Manila despite the odds, he left his impoverished Catbalogan, Samar to, in his words, “dive…plunged head on” to the big city. “I was young and I was unthinking; I was rash. All I wanted was to see what’s in Manila,” Dr. Rex tells Dubai Vibes Magazine. Blame it on the follies of youth. Dr. Rex was 19, fresh out of Sacred Heart College in Catbalogan; and restless.
10
Manila proved unkind. The next five years upon arrival was spent living a life one heartbreak story after another. He managed to get a part-time job selling glass cleaners but could not close a deal because of his thick accent. “I went from one house to another. I couldn’t sell. I just couldn’t pronounce Tagalog words correctly,” Dr. Rex said, referring to the vernacular Filipino language in the city. He said he thought he finally got it made when he went to a rich relative’s house in Laguna to sell his merchandise. But he was very wrong. “She told me I needed to show her if it was effective and asked me to clean her huge house’s enormous glass panels and windows. I did my best and sweated a lot, trying to prove it was the best glass cleaner. She didn’t buy,” Dr. Rex narrated. He was staying with his sister back in Manila and could not bear the thought of being a burden to his kin as he has been jobless for quite some time and she was working while studying, aside from having a family of her own. Luneta And so he left her, not knowing where to go, and ending up in Luneta – that historic park where the monument of the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal stands proud – with just the clothes on his back and a little money. The place back then was known was being a vagrant’s paradise, with prostitutes and drug-dealers, not to mention pick-pockets, prey on unsuspecting victims, one of which unfortunately happened to be Dr. Rex. “I saw a group of boys around my age; one of them approached and offered me Pepsi soda in a small transparent plastic bag with a straw in it. He was friendly. I drank it, then I got dizzy, fell asleep, and woke up the following day to a banging on the door. “A man was shouting, telling me that I have already extended my time. I couldn’t make sense of where I was. I didn’t even know why I was in the room. All I remember was that I was in Luneta. I was feeling groggy. I opened the door and walked out, apologizing to the man and trying to make sense of what happened. Finally, I realized that my bag was gone, that I have become a victim of the Ativan gang,” Dr. Rex said. The Ativan gang is a notorious criminal group in Manila victimizing people by lacing their drinks with the drug used as medication for anxiety and sleeping disorders. Slept on the streets Dr. Rex went back to Luneta, spent the night sleeping on the grass and waking up to another day of futile job-searching. “I remember having only Php5 pesos in my pocket. I got so hungry I bought steamed rice, again in a small plastic bag. I went around the streets of Sampaloc in Manila,
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
eating, aimlessly wandering. I experienced sleeping on the streets of Paco, Singalong, and Tondo while trying to make both ends meet for whatever job I could get into,” Dr. Rex said. It was taking its toll on him. He remembers encountering people shunning him because, to them, he “looked broken and unkempt,” Dr. Rex said. Dr. Rex met a friend from Samar who took him in. But again he left after some time because he overheard his friend’s mother scolding him for bringing in another mouth to feed. “The same episodes happened. Sleeping in Luneta. Getting odd jobs in the markets, taking a bath in public gyms… I was homeless,” Dr. Rex said. Tondo The same episodes indeed as he would meet yet again another acquaintance from Samar running a beauty parlor in Tondo, who took him in – but not for long. The salon, said Dr. Rex, was a “box,” but at least he had a place to stay. “Our sleeping area was the floor; and I was grateful. It was a place I could safely sleep at night. So, that became my routine, applying for jobs in the morning and helping in the salon after lunch until nighttime. Then one day, after another tiring day of seeking job, I saw my bag outside of the salon,” Dr. Rex said. A ray of hope Finally, a break: Dr. Rex met still another old friend from Samar, who pointed him to the direction of a couple in need of an English tutor for their three children. A ray hope. “That family changed my life. They accepted me as their own, and I started teaching the three children. After two years, I became interested in the spiritual life. I would go to mass every day in Tondo very early in
the morning. I would read spiritual books, and the father of the children noticed it,” he said. The road his life was travelling on led him to a monastery in Malaybalay, Bukidnon in the southern Philippines, where Dr. Rex accepted a monk’s life. And this chapter in Dr. Bacarra’s life subsequently led him to where it all began: Manila. “The head of the monastery asked me to go to the Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat in Manila since the monks there run and administer the San Beda University. “Eventually, I went back to Manila and became an active monk involved in the administration, and a teacher at San Beda. After that, they asked me to study for my master’s and Ph.D. at De la Salle University,” Dr. Rex said. In the summer of 2008, Dr. Rex went to Dubai where soon after, he was teaching at one of the city’s universities. “My life took a different path henceforth,” he said. Dr. Rex said he had wanted to be a lawyer, but due to financial considerations, he shifted to teaching. “The influence also mostly came from the fact that both my father and mother were school teachers. If God has other plans, I will continue to be playing the role of an excellent educator, uncompromising on quality and impacting the young to be responsible leaders of the world,” he said. Dr. Rex also has a Ph.D. in Management Research with concentration in Organization and HR from King’s College London.
‘It all started with curiosity. I am a naturally curious person, and my journey from a small town of Samar to Dubai results from that curiosity.’
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
11
Panchali Mahendra: Doing what she loves; loving what she does. A former member of her country’s national basketball team, she now calls the shot in the male-dominated food and beverage industry as managing director of Atelier House Hospitality, a consultancy firm delivering world class expertise.
12
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
“
I get paid to eat and enjoy!” says Panchali Mahendra, managing director at Atelier House Hospitality (AHH) and the first women in the Food & Beverage (F&B) category to receive the Golden Visa from Dubai. “On a serious note,” she adds, “F&B is like doing multiple jobs at once, there is never a dull moment – finance, branding, creativity, interior designing, construction, cooking, guest relations and the fact that I get to meet and interact with hundreds of people every day. What is there not to love?” Hailing from Indian, Panchali, who has been in Dubai for a decade, has had an amazing life. She was on her country’s national basketball team; she wanted to go modelling “but my father said a big ‘No,’” she said. “I have always wanted something glamourous and fun and realized that hospitality was the way to go. But very soon I realized it wasn’t so glamourous as it required a lot of hard work and lot of strategic academics. However, I slowly started enjoying the process and received a gold medal for coming first in my class in the university,” Panchali said. She was handpicked for a scholarship by the Oberoi Group to pursue a post-graduation course in Hospitality and that is how her wonderful journey started.
‘I was one of the few who chose this path. It was more of a chef- and operations-dominated industry before. I think my being one of the most experienced consultants and the number of projects I did from a very young age gave me that platform to shine and be visible compared with others.’
As to how she smashed the glass ceiling, Panchali explained: “The consulting aspect of Hospitality and F&B was new to many some 12 years back be it for men or women. “I was one of the few who chose this path. It was more of a chef- and operations-dominated industry before. Today yes, many consulting companies are opening up but back then it was easier to be noticed. I think my being one of the most experienced consultants and the number of projects I did from a very young age gave me that platform to shine and be visible compared with others to be given this outstanding chance.” Mahendra has featured in Power 50 – the only Indian woman to ever make the list – and Power women list twice: 2020 and 2021. She has likewise been nominated for various awards across different channels. She has conceptualized, operated, and opened over 55 restaurants regionally and internationally in her career. Some include Mohalla in D3 with 10 confirmed new openings of the homegrown brand in Saud Arabia, among others. Furthermore, in only four years, as AHH managing director, Panchali has bought internationally acclaimed Michelin star restaurant Marea to Dubai. Looking at what is next in Dubai, Mahendra with Atelier House Hospitality is also partnering on a new and exciting unique concept called 11 Woodfire, in collaboration with a celebrity chef, in late fall of 2021.
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
13
Mai and Eyad – like oil and lemon that spice up life Meet the lovely couple behind Zeit w Lamoon Restaurant, Dubai’s authentic Egyptian culinary sensation.
E
yad Abbas moved to Dubai from Cairo in 2005. His wife, Mai, whom he married back in Egypt in 2007, arrived in 2008. On July 16, 2021, the couple opened what would soon become the city’s top destination for authentic Egyptian culinary sensation: Zeit W Lamoon. “Zeit,” explains Mai, “means oil.” “Lamoon,” she added, “is lemon.” “It’s a mix that we use in our famous dish. We put it on top to give it a yummy taste.” Eyad and Mai, you may say, is the zeit and lamoon that spice up life in Dubai. The two met at a friend’s birthday party back in Egypt; it was 2003. The couple has since settled in Dubai where, aside from running Zeit W Lamoon Restaurant, is raising a family of three kids – a 12-year-old; a seven-year-old; and the youngest at three. “Dubai is a lovely place. Who wouldn’t fall in love with Dubai. It’s a safe place. All nationalities are here. My kids were born here and they go to school here,” says Mai, who’s into admin office work and has spent half her life in the city.
14
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
‘Zeit means oil. Lamoon is lemon. It’s a mix that we use in our famous dish. We put it on top to give it a yummy taste.’ Shared Eyad: “I agree that Dubai can be an expensive city. But, you get the best quality service. I have been in a lot of European countries and it’s super expensive back there; even more expensive than Dubai. “But if you compare the service, you’ll never get the kind of service that you’ll have in Dubai. That’s why a lot of Europeans, Americans…everyone…love to live in Dubai.” Eyad said they thought about a lot of options on whether to do their restaurant business in other countries. “After thinking deeply and studying different markets, we decided to do it in Dubai,” he said. Eyad, whose first job was in IT sales, said opening a restaurant has always been his dream. “We kept delaying and delaying it for some reasons. Then we felt it was finally the right time and we didn’t want to delay it some more,” he said. The couple’s advice for those wishing to open a restaurant? “Just believe in yourself, believe that you can, and do the right step; think about it very carefully, make your calculations. Once you’re confident, go ahead then make an evaluation.”
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
15
Ganesh and Shweta: The father-and-daughter team behind Zebra Café The two run a chic dining destination in Dubai and share how their common passion for food and beverage is making it work.
I
t’s a family affair indeed for Ganesh Rana and his daughter, Shweta who have teamed up to run a chic dining destination in Dubai named after one of the coolest animal on earth – the zebra. “The zebra is very calm animal and it’s one of my favorites,” says Ganesh. “So, after a discussion with my partners, we came up with the idea of creating a zebra-themed café,” he added. Ganesh, specifically referred to Hadi Sulaiman, a business partner, whom he described as “one example of a good human being; the man behind all this undertaking.” Forty-six-year-old Ganesh, who arrived in the UAE from Mumbai 26 years ago, is Zebra Café’s CEO and managing partner; his daughter Shweta handles the operations – from supply chain to customer service…the whole nine yards. “Food and beverage business is my passion,” says Ganesh. “Zebra Café is my first concept,” he also said, adding that he intends to open branches and franchises across GCC. Shweta came into the picture one day when she told her father about her plans. “She asked me, ‘Dad, can I work as barista?’ And I said, ‘No. We will open our own café.’ So, when we opened Zebra, she started as a barista, herself,” Ganesh said. Shweta, who also has her own clothing store and is into modeling, said she could not have asked for more working with her father. “I think it’s the best thing in the world. I get to learn so much. My teacher is my father. I can just call him anytime and wouldn’t be afraid to ask questions that I’d otherwise be scared to do if he had been another person and my boss,” Shweta said. “He always treats me like a staff. I actually
16
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
like it. It keeps me on the ground. It’s a blessing to be able to work with my father,” Shweta added. Shweta said growing up and seeing her father work so hard keeps her going. “That’s my motivation, definitely. I have seen him having sleepless nights because of work,” she said. Ganesh, for his part, said he owes his success to his wife – the two have been married for 33 years. “I would give 90% credit to her,” he said. He said he learned the art of cooking from her wife, sharing that the first phone call he made to her shortly after he arrived in Dubai years ago was how to prepare fish curry. Ganesh was, at the time, planning to cook meals for at least two days’ food for lunch at work as he was new in the city and had to minimize expenses. “But my colleagues finished the fish curry in 30 minutes,” he happily recalls. And thus began his journey in the kitchen, apparently realizing he has the knack for cooking. “So, what you see at Zebra Café is 100% my recipe, what I have learned in my 29 years of career,” Ganesh said. “Learning never stops. When I first came to Dubai I told myself, I am going to be general manager (GM) of one of the companies here. Within eight years, I became GM of an international restaurant chain. “I have had failures in my life. I have fallen down many times, but I never gave up. Giving up is not the solution,” said Ganesh. Zebra Café offers international cuisines – from the US to Italy; from India to the rest of Asia. Check it out.
‘My teacher is my father. I can just call him anytime and wouldn’t be afraid to ask questions that I’d otherwise be scared to do if he had been another person and my boss.’ w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
17
Pakistani woman climbs world’s 13th highest peak Naila Kiani, a banker, is the first female Pakistani mountaineer to reach the top of Gasherbrum-II, which has a height of over 8,000 meters above sea level.
B
ritish mountaineer George Herbert Leigh Mallory was once asked why he wanted to climb Mt. Everest and he said: “Because it’s
there.” That three-word phrase soon evolved to become the most famous expression in the mountaineering world. And it apparently kept ringing in Dubaibased resident Naila Kiani’s mind, decades after it was uttered. Kiani, a banker, is the first Pakistani woman to have successfully climb GasherbrumII, the world’s 13th highest peak at over 8,035 meters above sea level, according to a Khaleej Times (KT) report. Gasherbrum II is the third-highest peak of the Gasherbrum massif, and is located in the Karakoram on the border between Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan, and Xinjiang, China. “Gasherbrum-II was my first expedition,”
18
Kiani told KT in an interview. “I (have) received a lot of appreciation as the 8,000-metre peak is very significant in mountaineering because the death zone starts above 8,000 level. It was risky and challenging. No Pakistani female has ever climbed the top five peaks in Pakistan,” KT quoted her as further saying. Kiani said she had initially thought of climbing a 7,000-meter peak, which would take four to five weeks; an 8,000-meter one, on the other hand, takes five to six weeks.
‘It was risky and challenging. I thought, why not attempt an 8,000-metre peak because it will give me an experience about what exactly the world’s top mountaineers endure when they (climb) these high peaks that stand above the death zone?’
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
“I thought, why not attempt an 8,000-metre peak because it will give me an experience of what exactly the world’s top mountaineers endure when they attempt these high peaks that stand above the death zone,” KT also quoted Kiani as saying. Kiani made her climb last month. According to the KT report, she aims to conquer all of the world’s top peaks in Nepal and Pakistan. There are 14 mountains higher than Gasherbrum II, mostly in Nepal and five are in Pakistan. A fitness and adventure enthusiast, Kiani has set her sights on another 8,000-meter peak around June next year. “I’ll reveal the name of the peak later. I aim to conquer all peaks in Pakistan as well as Mountain Everest in Nepal. My other objective is to promote tourism and the natural beauty that Pakistan offers to foreign tourists,” KT quoted her as saying. Mallory went missing with a climb partner while on an expedition in 1924. His remains were found on May 1, 1999. There have been 20 mountaineers who have died attempting to conquer Gasherbrum II, the latest being a Polish national, Aleksander Ostrowski who was killed in an avalanche. Eight other fell to their death while two have disappeared. (Supplied photo)
The ‘surrogate parent’ David McKeown, Head of Boarding at Swiss International School Dubai (SISD), is responsible for the overall wellbeing, safety and education of the students.
“
‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ “‘Kind,’ said the boy.’ “Kind beats smart, always. Working with students as I do, I would also say, ‘Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but do always learn from them.’” This, in a nutshell is what life has all been about for David McKeown, Head of Boarding at Swiss International School Dubai, who was born in Cheshire in the UK and athletics having been his biggest passion alongside rugby as he was growing up. “I went on to compete at county and national level as a sprinter. I didn’t quite make the Olympics but had training partners who went on to represent Great Britain and won Olympic medals! “However, what it did certainly teach me is that to get to the top in anything, whether it’s sport or academics, you have to work incredibly hard, be passionate about what you do and really commit time, energy and effort into the things that you want to achieve,” said David. As Head of Boarding, David wears different hats. “I also aim to be heavily involved in the weekend and afterschool activities that the boarders participate in. I particularly enjoy joining them for trips, movie nights, take-away evenings and PlayStation tournaments. My karaoke is not the best, but others in the boarding staff team are great singers! I am essentially a
surrogate parent and ultimately that’s the most important part of the job,” he said. David met Anna, now his wife, at university and completed teacher training. “From there, my first teaching role was in a boys’ preparatory school and I remained within the independent school sector at various schools in positions including Director of Sport, Head of Boarding, Housemaster and Deputy Headmaster. Our passion for travel drove us to seek an overseas adventure, and here we are!” he said. While in the UAE, David completed his Masters in Education and continues to seek opportunities for growth and development “and so I would say my approach to life is to always keep learning and make the best of the challenges that life will inevitably throw my way. “Having a sense of humor is also incredibly important in life and certainly vital when dealing with so many teenage boarding students,” David said, who arrived in Dubai with his wife and two sons in 2010. His advice to fellow Dubai expats? “Try and take advantage of everything that Dubai has to offer. I am always looking for new, exciting places and trips to take the boarders, and I have realized that aside from the obvious attractions, there is also so much hidden culture in Dubai to explore. Dig deep and find some of the Dubai gems – off the tourist trail!”
‘I also aim to be heavily involved in the weekend and afterschool activities that the boarders participate in. I particularly enjoy joining them for trips, movie nights, take-away evenings and PlayStation tournaments. My karaoke is not the best, but others in the boarding staff team are great singers! I am essentially a surrogate parent and ultimately that’s the most important part of the job.’ w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
19
Rising from the ranks Sameh El Amri, general manager of S Hotel Group, has been in the hospitality industry for 30 years, working in various managerial position at several hotels from humble beginnings.
“
I started as a telephone operator in a Safir hotel in Cairo then my career development took off,” Sameh El Amri, general manager of S Hotel Group tells Dubai Vibes Magazine. He then moved in rooms division where his career development took off as Front Office Manager, Deputy Manager, Executive Assistant Manager, Hotel Manager, General Manager and Cluster General Manager. Sameh, who hails from Egyot, has worked for reputable names like Safir, Starwood JW Marriott, ACCOR , IHG and recently with S Hotel Group. “It is vibrant, evolving and full of teamwork,” Sameh says of the hotel business. “The hospitality is not like a normal working day in a bank – you come, you work and you go home. There is always something new happening and it is worth exploring that. If you are a dynamic person, you will love the job,” he says. “I’m motivated by my ability to be of a positive influence that leads others to find success. Also, the feeling that the work I do for others is appreciated. It is a great feeling knowing that I’ve just made someone’s day. You can achieve high job satisfaction through making others’ experiences happy,” he added. Sameh has been in the hospitality
20
industry for 30 years. After graduating from college, he traveled to Saudi Arabia and worked in Oasis Motel in Jeddah. He then moved to Kuwait City and stayed there for almost 3 years working at the Le Meridian Hotel. He moved to the UAE in 1998 and is currently living with my his family in UAE. Sameh had worked as Cluster General Manager of Holiday Inn Express Hotels in Internet City, Safa Park, Airport, and Jumeirah.
‘I started as a telephone operator in a Safir hotel in Cairo, then my career development took off. If you would like to work in the hotel industry, you should enjoy working with people. It’s all about people. You have to laugh, to travel. You have to be ready to deal with stress and long hours at the hotel.’
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
He has also been the Hotel Manager for Holiday Inn Express Airport; Hotel Director for Ibis Al Barsha Dubai; Executive Assistant Manager for Mercure City Centre Hotel Abu Dhabi, and Deputy Manager for Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai. With a master’s degree in Hospitality Management from Cornell University, USA, and a training program for International Hospitality Management in Paris, France, Sameh possesses an expansive knowledge of the hospitality industry, including corporate strategy, HR management, sales and marketing, revenue management, communication, finance, and distribution systems. “I am a positive person and I hope for good things to happen in future. Even in times of distress or confusions, I just hope that everything will be all right. And yes, this hope, it keeps me going,” said Sameh. To those planning to work in the hospitality, Sameh has this advice: “A job in the hotel industry allows a great deal of freedom and mobility, as well as the rare opportunity to meet, provide service, and interact with people from all walks and corners of life. “The key advice is that if you would like to work in the hotel industry, you should enjoy working with people. It’s all about people. You have to laugh, to travel. You have to be ready to deal with stress and long hours at the hotel.”
They call him ‘Maestro’ Born in Russia, Dmitry Belokurov has been in Dubai for some time, playing the guitar and changing people’s lives one note at a time.
F
orty-seven-year-old Dmitry Belokurov came out of Dubai International Airport a few years back with just a bag of clothes and a guitar. “I went to Dubai to teach how to play the guitar,” Dmitry says. He had been playing the stringed instrument since he was 11 – and has grown good at it. “I like to do what I do well – playing guitar and teaching people how to do it,” he said. As a kid, Dmitry was taught by a private teacher. “Later on, I went to a music academy and it was a great experience. It changed my life,” he said, which apparently was why he has embarked on a journey to spread the good guitar vibes and, in a way, also change people’s lives the way the music changed his. “Classical music is my specialty but I can also teach different styles like rock,” he said. Teaching the guitar, said Dmitry, is not easy. “It’s a very hard and complicated profession…very intellectual work but very interesting,” he said. Happy with his job, Dmitry says it pays to be kind and “treat people well as you would want them to treat you.” Dubai, he said is an amazing place. “You can compare it with London or Moscow and you’ll see that in Dubai, you’ll feel very safe,” Dmitry said.
‘It’s a very hard and complicated profession…very intellectual work but very interesting.’ w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
21
‘I was told by numerous people how I can never be successful’ Mohsen Abdulqaher Almousawi has also made a big leap from being a pilot to a businessman. he is engaged in a line of perfumes that students can generate income from to prevent financial struggles like he has had back in his school days.
22
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
‘I was kicked out of school due to the unique path I wanted to pursue, yet today I have multiple degrees in engineering, and I am currently working on my Ph.D.’
“
Facing different hardships and challenges from a young age helped shape the man I am today,” Mohsen Abdulqaher Almousawi tells Dubai Vibes Magazine. “I was told by numerous people how I can never be successful ,” he added. Yet today Mohsen has bragging rights to multiple degrees in engineering – four diplomas, a bachelor’s degree and two master’s. He is also currently working on his Ph.D. In addition, Mohsen has also joined the aviation industry by becoming a pilot back in 2016. “I am an engineer and pilot by profession; and currently working on my business,” he says. People ask, “How did I pull through?” Mohsen said he let failure become his mentor. “Failure can be tough but it can teach you more lessons than success. Do not fear failure because it will prepare you for what is worse. I have failed initially, but was directed, guided, protected, and corrected,” he said. Mohsen said it also helps to work on a goal, “but make sure to put quality over quantity.” “In my opinion, I believe that thinking outside the box is crucial because things might be different from what it seems to be
and God has a plan for everyone,” he said. Six months ago, Mohsen came up with the idea of helping students by producing a new line of perfume that is affordable, unique, and luxurious. “Students can use these products to generate an income while studying to prevent any financial struggles as I have had,” he said. Mohsen said he has embarked on this path despite his numerous credentials because, “I want to share the knowledge I have gained from past experiences in my life since I believe that helping people is the key to success.” Mohsen said he believes that “there are no
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
restrictions in helping other people strive financially, not even during the pandemic.” Mohsen said he is moving ahead to help people with his new perfume line, “not for financial benefits, but as a part of giving back to society.” “In addition, I would like to grow my perfume collection to suit people’s different aromatic tastes. I would like to also share my past experiences with others via lectures,” he said. In the end, it’s all about always dreaming big, “but make sure to set appropriate and consistent goals because without them, reality hits hard.”
23
‘In my opinion, I believe that thinking outside the box is crucial because things might be different from what it seems to be and God has a plan for everyone.’
24
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
H
DJ Skinnyloop in the house! Hiran De Silva: From house parties back home in Sri Lanka to small clubs in Deira and, finally, the big league Dubai night spots with various international artists.
26
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
iran De Silva AKA DJ Skinnyloop started his journey back in Sri Lanka working in a recording studio. “From there, I went on to learn how to mix tracks and do dj’ing,” he tells Dubai Vibes Magazine. “Then, I started playing in house parties after which I eventually moved to playing in clubs in Sri Lanka,” Skinnyloop, who arrived in Dubai 23 years ago in 1998, said. In Dubai, Skinnyloop said he first played in small Deira clubs. “I wanted to achieve more, so I competed in many DJ competitions and went on to winning first place in one of them back in 2010,” he said, after which he said he got an invitation to dj at the Armani Club. “In 2012, I joined Luv Events and since then, I have dj’d in many famous clubs like Pacha, Seven Sisters, Cove Beach, 1 OAK, Billionaire Mansion and Secret Room, among others, alongside international artists,” said Skinnyloop. Luv Events has weekly residencies across the UAE’s major clubbing brands, with a team providing Dubai’s partygoers awesome entertainment. Skinnyloop says doing what he loves keeps him going every day. His philosophy? “It doesn’t matter how slow you go, as long as you do not stop,” he says. “Just follow your dream and stay humble,” Skinnyloop says. Skinnyloop says the past 23 years in Dubai has been an amazing journey for him. “It is an amazing place; so diverse. You get to experience different cultures and meet so many people,” he says. “For me, Dubai is the Old Dubai like Karama, Dubai Creek. I lived in Deira when I first moved here and I have seen all the developments come to life,” Skinnyloop added. He said he is considering settling down in Dubai. “Why not? The city has given me so much. I don’t mind settling down here. The sense of security you get in Dubai is way better compared to other countries,” he said.
‘Dj Skinnyloop has done gigs in many famous Dubai clubs like Pacha, Seven Sisters, Cove Beach, 1 OAK, Billionaire Mansion and Secret Room, among others, alongside international artists.’
Chef Mario: ‘I started out as a kitchen helper.’ Mario Bortoni Cotera has worked in the culinary field for about 20 years, from coffee shops, fusion restaurant to having his own taco shop.
C
hef Mario Bortoni Cotera, who hails from Nuevo León, Monterrey, México, has worked in the culinary field for about 20 years – from coffee shops to a fusion restaurant. It was, he says, all about “learning and growing” as he earned positions starting out as a kitchen helper to head chef, “until I tried to go international and luckily ended up well working for Richard Sandoval,” renowned chef with over 50 restaurants around the globe. These days, Chef Mario, who successfully pursued a degree in cooking at the Monterrey Institute of Culinary Arts in Monterrey, Mexico, works at Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant, Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi, Yas Island.
28
“Life trained me. A paper doesn’t make you a chef, but it helps,” Chef Mario says. “After acquiring the cooking basics at school, I started as a kitchen helper, working at different restaurants, most of them Mexican-oriented. I have had coworkers who shared their knowledge with me – from recipes, seasonings, quantities, temperature, time, the do’s and dont’s, pressure…rush hour,” he added. Having done the whole nine yards, Chef Mario says “being a cook is not an easy task; it requires interest, passion, preparation and effort.” Chef Mario recalls hanging out with friends back in the day, during which most of the time he was cooking for them. “And I always got great feedback, which made me feel good; of course, sometimes the food I prepared wasn’t good and I get the ‘boos’ (still they eat the food). “But instead of giving up, it made me want to improve and I that’s how I started to get more involved in the culinary field,” Chef Mario says.
‘Life trained me. A paper doesn’t make you a chef, but it helps.’
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
His family, new flavors and learning experiences keep the chef going. His life philosophy? “Treat others like how you want them to treat you; lead by example and don’t forget to share,” say Chef Mario. “Life is tough. Looking at the bright side makes it better,” he says. In the kitchen, Chef Mario advises that you to taste the food; “if you don’t like it, don’t serve it.” “Season your food, taste before serving, be careful with fire, do the right thing even when nobody is looking, look for advice when you feel uncertain, set your goals, don’t judge, listen, ask and listen again,” Chef Mario says. His experience as a chef extends beyond Mexico, having lived and worked in Qatar for eight years, from 2010 to 2018, at a fine-dining restaurant where he became head chef. “After my memorable eight years in Qatar, my family and I decided to move back to Mexico, where I briefly held a position as a head chef at a restaurant focusing on international cuisine as well as international and local wines. “In an adventurous and ambitious pursuit, I abandoned this position to open my own taco stand,” he said.
Ever seen a Sufi dance before? Mohammed Elamray arrived in Dubai from Egypt in 1998 and has bragging rights to being among the city’s first Sufi dancers.
T
he crowd is done dining, the summer breeze caressing their faces, stroking their hair. The whiff of karak tea swirls in the air like incense burning as the dhow hums its way across the Dubai Creek. Then, from the darkness came a silhouette of a man garbed in traditional costume. The light turns on along with the music and voila! He starts to do a whirling dance – slow and rhythmic that gradually gathers speed: a traditional Sufi dance. Enthralled, the people was soon swaying with the music as if in hypnotic trance, and exploded in a loud applause as the man concludes his performance. “This is my professional work,” says 48-year-old Mohammed Elamray, who has been doing the Sufi dance since 1984. “I feel happy and excited seeing people entertained by my dance,” he added.
30
Elamray arrived in Dubai from Egypt in 1998 and has bragging rights to being among the city’s first Sufi dancers. He does nightly performances on board dhow evening cruises and at times, in the Global Village. Entranced by a 700-year-old ritual, the whirling dervishes perform the Sufi dance, steered by rhythmic breathing and chants
‘I feel happy and excited seeing people entertained by my dance.’
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
of “Allah”, as they seek to become one with God. Their white robes rise and fall in unison, spinning faster and faster. The right palm is raised to the heavens to receive God’s blessings, which are communicated to earth by the left hand pointing to the ground. As they continue turning in a spiritual trance, the dancers float between the two worlds. They are now in a deeply personal and intense form of meditation. Dervishes dance is an ancient classical dance. A mystical form of Islam, Sufism shuns all forms of materialism in pursuit of asceticism. In most historical accounts, Sufis are commonly known as persons of religious learning whose aspirations revolve around being close to Allah.
‘I came here doing regular jobs’ – Ali Khalid, car collector and cafe owner It all happened one evening: Ali was enjoying shisha with friends and they said ‘Why don’t we open our own?’ They did.
A
li Khalid recalls how he and some friends were chilling at a shisha bar one evening whiling away the time after a long day’s work. “We thought it’s good business,” Ali says. “And so we said, ‘We should open our own café as well.’” With that in mind, Dhuaan Lounge Restaurant & Café was born, officially opening on June 26 last year. The café has Monday “Gentleman’s Night,” and Tuesday “Ladies Night.” It offers the best of Dubai, too. “It’s my dream to have a café,” says Ali, who is also into collecting cars – a Range Rover and a Mercedes Benz among them, so far. Let’s rewind a bit and see how it started out for Ali, who has been calling Dubai home for the past 17 years. “The family has a construction business as well as a rent-a-car company,” said Ali. Ali, who worked as facility manager for 13 years, said he used to do regular jobs.
“I believe we have more opportunities here,” Ali, who’s from Pakistan, said. He said his family actually didn’t have plans to move to Dubai but did. And now they are reaping the fruits of their hard work – which, by the way, Ali said, is what it all boils down to. “The main thing is to focus on your work. Work hard then work harder,” he said.
‘“We thought it’s good business. And so we said, ‘We should open our own café as well.’’ w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
31
“
It’s a very diverse city, kind of like New York,” Ziad Tariq says, referring to Dubai. “I’ve seen Dubai when it was just a desert. So, it’s amazing to see the city develop through the years.”
Payam Honari shares Ziad’s thoughts about this international city that never sleeps. “I was able to see Dubai as a desert and I saw it thrive into the city it is today. Business in Dubai in particular is easier than in other countries as the government makes rules and regulations favorable to a company’s success,” Payam says. Aside from their views about Dubai, Ziad and Payam have another thing in common: both are business savvy. To this end, the two launched Adasat, which means “contact lenses” in Arabic, two years ago in September 2019. Adasat is an e-commerce platform offering premium and high-quality eyewear in the UAE.
Meet Payam and Ziad – business partners making things work The two launched an e-commerce platform offering premium and highquality eyewear in the UAE two years ago. PAYAM HONARI
32
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
Ziad is an ambitious entrepreneur with a strong work ethic. Having multiple businesses in different fields such as real estate, marketing and e-commerce, he graduated from American University Dubai in 2008 with a degree in marketing and business administration. As a young boy, he helped his father’s optical business after class every day where he learned the ins and outs of the field. Shortly after graduating, he started working in a Dubai bank to sharpen his finance and customer service skills while simultaneously helping with his father’s optical business. He then later co-founded bonavenue.com in 2011 until 2014 selling designer clothing brands and was the marketing manager for the company. In 2015, he opened an optical store called Optoline Optics, which still stands today, selling eyewear and performing RTA eye tests and in 2019, he cofounded adasat.com with Payam. “I love making customers happy – to receive comments from them saying that we helped them with what they were looking for and that they were very satisfied with our company just brightens my day,” Ziad says. “Good things are worth waiting for. The world is an open market place – there’s a job for everyone out there. You just have to go and find it. Choose a job that you love, something that allows you to innovate and think every day yet also something that keeps you happy,” says Ziad. Payam, for his part, says it’s all about team work. “We are like a family. We are very comfortable with each other but of course we have boundaries to make sure that work comes first. When you enjoy your job and have fun with your colleagues, you actually move forward faster and accomplish goals quicker,” he says.
“Everyone has a lot of ups and more downs. I have gone through a lot,” Payam added. Payam is a passionate businessman. He has vast experience in retail and real estate in the Gulf. Like Ziad, Payam also learned the value and principles of earning money from his father when he was a small kid. The most important thing that he remembered was the one his father used to say – “No matter what business you`re in, always make sure to keep your priorities focused on people”. Payam majored in Business Administration at Emirates Aviation College in 2004 to 2007. In 2010, he worked in Honari Trading in the business development department until 2013 dealing in Honari Rice which is sold in all supermarkets today. In 2013, he started a mixed martial arts gym called Positive Fitness and in 2019, he co-founded the adasat.com. Even though he is currently involved in several other businesses, Payam never stopped pursuing self-development. He is continuing his education in Business Administration doing Master’s Degree in Anglia Ruskin University, UK. Payam believes that we should always seek to expand our boundaries whether it is in business or in life. “Do good things for the sake of it and not in search of something in return. Don’t complain, you won’t get anywhere that way. You have to work hard to reach your goal. We all make mistakes, that’s normal. But make sure to stand up to what you did wrong and learn from it,” he says.
‘Good things are worth waiting for. The world is an open market place – there’s a job for everyone out there. You just have to go and find it.’
Ziad Tariq
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
33
Working mum says it’s tough but full of love Omnia Abdelhalim, co-founder and in charge of marketing and communications at a kids’ healthy food company, shares what keeps her going.
“
It’s really tough managing everything at once,” says Omnia Abdelhalim, cofounder and in charge of marketing and communications at Koala Picks, a kids’ healthy food company. “Spending enough time with the kids, getting them ready for school, keeping them entertained and then also getting work done,” Omnia added. And that’s just a part of it, she says. “It’s usually much more hectic when we’re launching new products or during busy seasons like back to school and Christmas. But we’re really lucky to have each other’s support,” Omnia, who’s from Egypt, said. Three years ago, Omnia and two friends, Aya Assaf and Ahmed Mobasher , both Egyptian nationals, too, launched Koala Picks, which promotes healthy lifestyle habits for families. Their products range from healthy sweet and savory snacks, which can be purchased in single boxes or as part of a subscription service, and delicious breakfast and baking items which can be purchased on their own. All Koala Picks recipes were made
36
from scratch in-house by the talented team in their licensed kitchen, with all items approved by a certified nutritionist. “We love how excited our customers get about our snacks. We’re always receiving such cute photos of kids and families enjoying our snacks, making our breakfasts at home and getting super creative – it makes us really happy to see. We also love launching new, innovative
‘Our kids are always asking for snacks they can munch on all day, and we always get our innovations from their crazy ideas.’
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
products – we’re always looking for inspiration from our own kids,” says Omnia. Her kids keep her extra busy but Omnia doesn’t mind. “Our kids and our customers, who have become such loyal friends and a big part of the Koala Picks family are what keep us going. Our kids are always asking for snacks they can munch on all day, and we always get our innovations from their crazy ideas. “We spend a lot of time with our families. We love spending the day out by the pool, planning fun crafts at home to keep the kids entertained, and visit our relatives who also live in Dubai,” she says. Omnia arrived in Dubai four years ago. “At first,” she said, “Dubai was a bit intimidating; lots going on and so many different people and cultures to meet!” “Once we’ve settled in and found our way, we found Dubai to be a great city to live in.”
The travel promoter Chawarot Chankiatthitikul, who hails from Nong Khai city in northern Thailand, is Marketing Executive for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Dubai & Middle East Office.
“
What I love the most about my work is that I am doing it for my beloved country, showing travelers in Middle East the beauty of Thailand. I’m sure that most Arabs have been travelling to Thailand, especially Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok and Chiang Mai – and there’s a lot more places waiting to experience,” says 41-year-old Chawarot Chankiatthitikul, marketing executive at Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Chawarot, who hails from Nong Khai city in northern Thailand, has had years of experience working in Thailand’s hospitality sector. “After graduation, I started working at
hotels in Bangkok before moving to Dubai. Working in the hotels has taught me so many thing and it would be great to contribute my experiences to work for my country,” said Chawarot, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English and Hotel Management from Ramkhamhaeng University in Bangkok. Chawarot arrived in Dubai 15 years ago
‘Travel is the thing you buy that makes you richer.’
w w w. d u b a i v i b e s m a g a z i n e . a e |
in 2005. “I really had no idea how Dubai was at that time,” he recalls, adding that the city has been kind. “There’s a lot of things to explore. I had a chance to get to know lots of friends who come from different countries. It’s good to immerse in a diversity of cultures and traditions as well as food,” Chawarot said. “I personally love travelling. It makes me feel like great seeing different places, culture and traditions. I do believe that travel is the thing you buy that makes you richer,” he said. As TAT marketing executive, Chawarot is responsible for the promotion of Thailand’s tourism industry and its related sectors.
39
“
What keeps me going? My passion for entrepreneurship. I’ve always been a driven person. So, turning concepts into budding businesses gives me my kick. I also have a four-year-old who I strive to be a good role model for every day,” says Rosa Bullock, who was born and raised in Birmingham, UK. “I had a pretty idyllic childhood. I watched my parents set up and run their businesses. With friends in Dubai, a trip here was always a given. I fell in love with Dubai on my first visit. A few months later, I packed my bags and moved here. Several years later, I’m raising a family here. My daughter, Ayda Grace, is truly a citizen of the world. She was born and is growing up here, and I’m excited about her journey, too,” says Rosa who has a BA in Fashion Management and Marketing from London College of Fashion - University of the Arts London.
‘Dubai is a city that demands moderation. You can go to a AED1,000 brunch. You can also get an ice cream for one dirham. It’s all relative. I’m a huge fan of discount apps. If you manage your money well, you can have a nice life in Dubai on a budget.’
The PR guru speaks Born and raised in Birmingham, UK, Rosa Bullock gets her kick turning concepts into budding businesses.
40
DUBAI VIBES MAGAZINE | V O L 1 • I S S U E 7 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
She said she embarked on a journey to Dubai because of “the sun, sand and opportunities – the usual expat answer.” “Not a single day goes by without me appreciating all of this. I pursue all the opportunities Dubai sends my way on weekdays. And I soak up its abundant sunshine every weekend with my family. When the weather’s cooler, we love our family camping trips in the desert. We’ve made some great memories,” says Rosa who has been in Dubai for the past eight years. “Dubai is a city that demands moderation. You can go to a AED1,000 brunch. You can also get an ice cream for one dirham. It’s all relative. I’m a huge fan of discount apps. If you manage your money well, you can have a nice life in Dubai on a budget,” she says. A public relations (PR) guru, Rosa has launched and led Sociate; an integrated communications agency; SOCIATE UK, the agency’s creative branch in London; and Socialite, an influencer relationship agency. “Treat every single person you meet with respect. Also, if you say you’re going to do something, follow through. You may meet someone amazing but forget to actually email them and move things ahead. You’ll be surprised how many fantastic opportunities we miss out on because we fail to take that important first step. Send that email, make that call - they may only take five minutes,” Rosa says.