Out and About Magazine Issue 4 Vol. 3

Aug - Sept 2021

Issue 4 Volume 3

A RESILIENT MONEY MINDSET TAKING LESSONS FROM

SALMA KAYALI, VICE PRESIDENT OF INNOVATION, ALDAR

CHILDREN: EXPENSE OR INVESTMENT?

UPCYCLING AND THE UAE BRANDS THAT DO IT BEST

Top

10

MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS IN DUBAI

Behind the Brand with

Salama Mohamed, Influencer and Owner of Peacefull Out & About Magazine

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This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.

William Shakespeare, Hamlet

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Editorial

Editor in chief

Marsha Fry

marsha@outandaboutmag.com

Editor

Anika Richards

info@outandaboutmag.com

art

Art director

nakul thanekar

nakul.thanekar89@gmail.com

advertising

sales & marketing +971 50 127 8820 sales@outandaboutmag.com

general enquiries hello@outandaboutmag.com

On this month's cover Interview: Faisal Naser (F.A.N.A.N)

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www.outandaboutmag.com

Creative Director: F.A.N.A.N Photographer: Adel Alvin @adel_alvin Outfit: Zaid Farouki

Published by Out and About FZE (Registered at Fujairah Creative City)

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Remember each new day you get to turn a page in your life and write your own story. So how do you choose to write it?

— Tammy Mentzer Brown

Challenges and disappointments will come, but you determine your destiny. So, do not feel discouraged.

If you have a setback, pick yourself up, try again, and make sure you’re ready for the comeback.

You are so much more powerful than you know. Don’t shy away from unexpected opportunities; embrace the unknown and step out fearlessly.

If it does not work out, at least you would’ve tried and learnt a valuable lesson on the way. Remember, you can always try again because you are the author of your story.

Together, let’s take that leap of faith.

As always, we at Out and About Magazine are here to encourage and highlight what is possible if you believe in yourself. You can count on us to give you that extra push. You’ve got this!

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Features and Highlights The first male Emirati fashion stylist, Faisal Naser (F.A.N.A.N), shares how he got into the business, his inspiration and his approach when styling someone for the first time in our Fashion Feature.

Also in Fashion, find out the UAE brands that are leading the way when it comes to upcycling. Is your favourite brand among them?

In our Beauty section, check out Clean Beauty: Figuring out what it means as we provide some tips to help you make the best choice. Still focused on you, be sure to also read Finding Your Signature Scent and Choosing the Right Lashes For You, also in the Beauty section. We did all the heavy lifting so you can enjoy titbits on how to look and smell your best.

Owner of Peacefull, Salama Mohamed, in our Behind the Brand feature, talks about her skincare journey and how that influenced her company’s work to help others be at peace in their skin in order to achieve the highest form of self-love.

You do not want to skip our Taking Lessons feature with Salma Kayali. The Vice President of Innovation at Aldar dropped some gems that are bound to lead to introspection.

In our Lifestyle section, we take a closer look at Personal Public Relations and how important it is to create that public persona. Then, check out some tips on How to Develop a Resilient Money Mindset and explore whether children are an expense or an investment. We

also touch on a few ways to Deal with Fibroids and Endometriosis in our Lifestyle section.

Keeping your palate top of mind, in our Food section we provide recipes on five ways to top your avocado toast and provide Hydration alternatives to that bottle of water.

With Phuket now Open for International Travellers, be sure to read Anantara’s Top 10 Things to See and Do in our Travel section. Find out, too, the Top 10 Most Romantic Restaurants in Dubai for ideas for a special evening with the special someone.

In our For the Culture feature, An Unmasking: The Link Between Culture and Men, follow as we explore the connection. In Hot Art, Hot Earth, we talk about the link between NFTs, the art world and a push towards more sustainable solutions.

And, check out The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle is our Shelf Life feature, which says living in the now is the truest path to happiness and enlightenment.

How do you choose to write your story?

Are you ready to write your own story yet? You determine the next page, next chapter and look and feel of the finished product. Don’t be afraid to rewrite or edit any portion of your story. You are in the driver’s seat; you have all the power. Out and About Magazine, with the team that made this Edition possible, is here to remind you if you ever forget!

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GOLD RUSH

Model: Renata Hamikus Hair: Toth Szilvia Photo: József Balogh Assistants: Szabo Pal and Toth Laszlo Rudolf Retouch: Anna Petrova Creative Director and Makeup: Liv Rideg Assistant: Giulia Matta Styling: Suha Dora Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary 6

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Model: Renata Hamikus Makeup: Liv Rideg Assistant: Giulia Matta Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary

HEAVY METAL Out & About Magazine

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SECTION 1

CONTENTS

August - September 2021

11 FASHION

• F ashion Feature: Faisal Naser —The Artist First Male Emirati Stylist • Upcycling and the UAE Brands that do it Best

SECTION 2

32 BEAUTY

• Clean Beauty: Figuring out what it means • Finding your Signature Scent • Choosing the Right Lashes For You

SECTION 3

53 BEHIND THE BRAND

• Salama Mohamed, Influencer and Owner of Peacefull

SECTION 4

64 TAKING LESSONS

• Salma Kayali, Vice President of Innovation, Aldar

SECTION 5

73 LIFESTYLE

• Personal Public Relations: Indulgence or Necessity?

• How to Develop a Resilient Money Mindset • Dealing with Fibroids and Endometriosis • Children: Expense or Investment?

SECTION 8

132 SHELF LIFE

• T he Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

98 FOOD

• T op your Avocado Toast these 5 ways • Hydration Alternatives to that bottle of water

SECTION 6

106 TRAVEL

• A nantara’s Top 10 Things to See and Do in Phuket • T op 10 Most Romantic Restaurants in Dubai

SECTION 7

122 FOR THE CULTURE

• An Unmasking: The Link between Culture and Men • Hot Art, Hot Earth

Out and About Magazine takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material. The photographs in this publication are for illustration purposes, unless otherwise specified.

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FAISAL NASER (F.A.N.A.N) The Artist FIRST MALE EMIRATI STYLIST Instagram: @f.a.n.a.n Creative Director: Fanan (F.A.N.A.N) Photographer: Adel Alvin @adel_alvin

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Creative Director: Faisal Naser (F.A.N.A.N) Photographer: Adel Alvin @adel_alvin Outfit: Zaid Farouki

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1.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.

My name is Faisal Naser, but I go by F.A.N.A.N, which is my initials. And, at the same time, Fanan is the Arabic word for artist.

I believe that I was born this way—being an artist, nothing else—but I started my career late in my life. I was, I think, around 29 when I woke up one morning feeling so bad. There was something in my chest that hurt, so I started crying. I asked myself: “Why am I crying? I was so happy; everything was fine and normal.”

I went to the office, and I went straight to my manager’s office, knocked on the door, and I said, “Hey, I’m quitting,” without even realising or thinking of quitting before. Their response: “What’s wrong? What’s happening?” I said: “This is not what I want to do.”

I used to work in human resources for 10 years, but I realised this was not what I wanted to be or where I saw my future taking me. I’m great at human resources. Honestly, I love to help people, but I felt like F.A.N.A.N or Faisal has so much more power and desire in him that he wants to achieve in life.

I never thought in my life to work as a stylist in Abu Dhabi or the United Arab Emirates. But, this manager came up to me and said, “Well, I have an opening in the magazine if you’re interested, as a fashion editor.” I paused and thought: “Wait, can I do this here? Can I?” I did the interview the next morning, the morning after that, I got the job as a stylist, fashion and beauty journalist.

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Creative Director: Fanan (F.A.N.A.N) Photographer: Adel Alvin @adel_alvin

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2. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

My style is futuristic, classy and edgy. And, when you merge these three, you’ll get fabulousness.

I believe when I merge futuristic styles with vintage, people say, “Oh wait, futurist and vintage, how do you add these two together?”

It’s very easy: wear something you think represents the future and always throw one item from the past.

This is my goal, and this is how I style even my clients. Sometimes I will throw them in something new, and then, all of a sudden, I will say, “Hey, wait a minute, let me go to your closet,” and then just grab a really old piece that they have and just throw it on that style that they have. They then look amazing because when you merge that vintage item, you bring the story behind that item within the futuristic ways of styling that person, and you’ll get a new story from the past. Do you know what I mean?

So my style is crazy but futuristic in a way.

3. YOU ARE THE FIRST EMIRATI MALE STYLIST. WHO ARE YOUR STYLE ICONS? There’s no one in our time right now. But, for me, my style icons would be Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. They have the class, which I love to bring to the table, and then they have that sassiness, which I also have, and I have to bring to the table, and at the same time, their ages or their times—they used to bring the futuristic, which is something different than anyone else in the world.

They always have to bring that style that you never saw in their lifetimes. That’s why I consider their fashion sense in the past as a futuristic fashion sense and that’s why I look up to them a lot because I’m doing what they used to do in the past. I feel like I have so much in common in my style sense with their style sense as well.

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WHAT’S YOUR WARDROBE MVP?

Denim jackets. A denim jacket all the way— always.

Creative Director: Faisal Naser (F.A.N.A.N) Photographer: Adel Alvin @adel_alvin Outfit: Zaid Farouki

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5. ARE YOU A CLOSET EDITOR OR A BUILDER?

Honestly, I’m a combination of both.

I can build a closet from scratch or transform a closet from zero to 100.

When it comes to building a closet from scratch, I love the idea of transferring this client and giving her a whole different kind of style by throwing out everything that she has and building that closet from scratch, or the other way around, actually see what she has in her closet and try to combine whatever she has and come up with different kinds of styles. For example, a lot of people buy a lot of clothing and just throw it in the cabinet, and they don’t know what to do with them. They say, “Well, I don’t know what to wear with this, and I don’t know what to wear with that.” When it’s my responsibility, I come and I teach you how to wear this item in different styles—for example, six to 10 different kinds of styles.

And, at the same time, we organise and build it so that you can have an outfit that lasts for a year, which is very easy to do. People don’t know how to do these small tricks, and this is where I come in.

6. WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH WHEN YOU FIRST START STYLING SOMEONE? First of all, I speak to them for an hour—I see their personalities, I see their soul; how do they communicate with the person in front of them. Then I realise what kind of style they want because all of us are humans, and sometimes we have souls, and each soul is different from the other. So I always try to connect with your soul to understand what your soul wants before your appearance outside.

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So, for example, there’s a lot of clients that I’ve met who show this persona where they have a different side to them—the outgoing, outspoken person or this hype person—but deep inside their soul, they’re different. They’re more vulnerable, they’re more afraid of showing this and that when I use these colours that they never thought they wanted to use. And that’s where I come in; I speak to their soul and understand them perfectly.

Then I’ll drop the bomb where I’ll tell them, “Hey, listen, whatever you ask me to do, it’s not good for you.

It’s not appropriate at all. Let me just try something else.” Then when I do that they love and want to go ahead and try that look that I gave them. That’s how they completely transform their sense of style.

You have to understand yourself because dressing yourself is representing yourself from the inside. You want to tell people who you are from the inside before you show them what you are from the outside.

So, as I told you before the interview, this (a hat) is my security blanket, and you’ll never take it off of my head. The only time I did take it off was two weeks ago when I did this photoshoot with this amazing Emirati artist. He decided to tell me to get rid of the hat. The minute I put the hat aside, I felt so vulnerable. It showed in my pictures; it showed that I’m this kind of a baby who’s almost going to tear up, and that’s my point. So when you try to dress from the outside, you need to know your inside. I know I sound like a shrink, but I’m a stylist.

Creative Director: Fanan (F.A.N.A.N) Photographer: Zaid Farouki

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Creative Director: Fanan (F.A.N.A.N) Photographer: Adel Alvin @adel_alvin

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7. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR GO-TO DESIGNERS WHEN IT COMES TO STYLING A CLIENT? I don’t have a go-to designer because I believe that each one of us has a different kind of unique and different style. For me to have a go-to designer would limit me as a stylist who would know how to build your new persona or a new character or new outfits.

So, for example, each one of us has a different persona, so for me to choose different kinds of designers for individuals is different from the other one. If a client came up to me and said, “I want you only to buy me stuff from Gucci or Prada,” I would say, “Well, not everyone shoots Gucci and Prada stuff.” So that’s why I don’t believe in just focusing on a few designers and keeping them as my go-to designers.

Also, the same thing applies to me. I don’t have a specific designer I go to; one day I’ll shop at Zara, and the next day I’ll shop somewhere else for fabric and then I take it and sew it and transform it into something beautiful. I believe that not everyone should keep having a designer as a go-to because we have more than thousands of designers in the world. If we did not see what other designers are trying to bring to the table we would all look alike. We would all look like an alien—everyone dressing the same.

8. YOU COULD STYLE ANYONE. WHO ARE THE TOP THREE PEOPLE THAT YOU’D LIKE TO STYLE? One of them is Britney Spears because I really, really hate the way she dresses up right now—with the crop tops and shorts. Come on girl, dress your age. I love you; I grew up listening to you. Maybe also Selena Gomez. And, if I’d say someone from the Gulf or our region, I’d say Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi.

Honestly, I love the way she dresses. It’s amazing, classy and powerful, and I do have a lot of ideas for her.

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WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED?

Honestly, my mum. My mum nurtures my talent. My mum nurtured it to the way that she allowed me to style myself when I was seven years old and style my siblings. And, for me to actually wake up every morning knowing that I am a stylist and I can actually style people, my mum always comes in the back of my head, and that’s what motivates me to go out there and pursue what I’m pursuing.

10. WHAT’S THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY?

Live your life and never, ever look back. The minute you give a glimpse backwards, your life will stop. Your life will immediately stop in front of you. So, never look back!

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BRONZE SEDUCTION Model: Mimi Shokoya Photo: Jozsef Balogh Assistant: Toth Laszlo Rudolf Retouch: Anna Petrova Makeup and Styling: Liv Rideg Dress: Zhoja Budapest Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary 18

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FLORAL FUN Model: Renata Hamikus Model: Szumutku Panna Makeup: Horvath Fruzsina Headpiece: Millasonjascouture Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Educator: Liv Rideg Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary

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UPCYCLING AND THE UAE BRANDS THAT DO IT BEST THEY SAY ONE MAN’S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN’S TREASURE— BUT WHO SAYS YOU CAN’T TURN TRASH INTO TREASURE? By now, everyone knows what recycling is: the process of breaking down objects to create new materials. Well, upcycling is like recycling but more creative. It involves taking waste material and turning it into something better, such as turning a bunch of plastic bottles into a snazzy jacket.

These days, with growing landfill waste and increasing CO2 emissions, upcycling has been suggested as a solution, especially in the fashion industry.

Textile production takes up a lot of energy, water, and other resources. It is estimated that it produces 92 million tonnes of waste each year. This, combined with the derided practice of ‘fast fashion’, has made many fashion brands unpopular with the environmentally-conscious public.

Thankfully, many fashion brands have taken notice and incorporated sustainable, eco-friendly practices like upcycling in their production process. Some of these brands were born in the UAE.

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ABADIA

Abadia is a luxury brand with one purpose—to make timeless fashion for the contemporary woman. It works with local artisans and all its products are ethically sourced. It makes a point not to overproduce— any waste material is turned into toys and accessories.

Instead of manufacturing new fabric, it uses recycled polyester and deadstock material. You can find its products at shop.abadia.me.

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THE GIVING MOVEMENT

The Giving Movement believes in ‘conscious consumerism’. The brand came into being during the novel coronavirus pandemic and primarily produces athletic leisurewear. It uses sustainable materials like nylon made from plastic bottles and organic bamboo made from bamboo pulp.

Its factory is based in the UAE, which significantly reduces the brand’s carbon footprint. The Giving Movement’s good deeds don’t stop there— it donates 15 AED from every item purchased to charity. Shop here: thegivingmovement.com

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DUNESI

Dunesi makes locally sourced clothing for women. It is the brainchild of Hanne, who was inspired by her love of the beach and desert. Dunesi believes in ‘slow fashion’—it releases products sporadically throughout the year. Every item is produced in the UAE. It is also a member of One Percent For The Planet.

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ONLY ETHIKAL

Only Ethikal’s websites feature fashion designers who produce creative products using ethical methods. They use biodegradable materials and rescued fabrics.

Only Ethikal works with Fashion Revolution, an organisation dedicated to radically changing the fashion industry. Its goal is to make people ask: “Who made my clothes and what materials were used in making them?”.

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About the author

GUARI RAJ

Guari Raj is a journalism undergraduate studying at Amity University Dubai. She is a quiet, introspective individual with a passion for design and writing.

She is always looking to improve her skills and spends her free time reading manga and playing Genshin Impact.

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FLOWER POWER Model: Dorottya Horváth Makeup: Volgyi Luca Sara Headpiece: Millasonjascouture Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Educator: Liv Rideg Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary 30

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GIRL POWER Models: Csonka Rebeka and Hamikus Renata Photo: Jozsef Balogh Assistant: Toth Laszlo Rudolf Hair: Talpai Szabolcs Creative Director, Makeup and Styling: Liv Rideg Assistants: Giulia Matta, Csöppüs Szilvia and Agoston Anita Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary

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CLEAN BEAUTY:

FIGURING OUT WHAT IT MEANS With no definitive meaning for “clean beauty” and a wealth of information on the Internet, it can be difficult to understand what the word “clean” really means in the beauty industry.

However, it is a lot more than labels that claim to be all-natural, organic, vegan, or cruelty-free beauty products. These labels can be deceiving and cause a dilemma when choosing the right product for you, or worse, could seriously harm your skin with all the toxic ingredients masked behind misleading words.

And, we do not want that, so here’s a simple guide to understanding

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what clean beauty is and why it is important.

Clean beauty refers to the beauty essentials that are cruelty-free, ethically sourced, transparent about the ingredients used, and, most importantly, made up of 100 per cent universally safe ingredients. Whilst that may sound relatively simple, it’s a tad bit more complicated.

It can, therefore, be hard to identify which products uphold these standards and which ones hide toxic ingredients behind a green-washed label.

Therefore, clean beauty is:

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ETHICALLY SOURCED: the products are manufactured in a clean and safe environment. The organisation ensures that the products are created sustainably and responsibly.

CRUELTY-FREE: the manufacturing

process of the products does not harm animals in any way. This includes deriving harmful ingredients from animals, product testing on animals, et cetera.

SAFE INGREDIENTS: it all comes down to how safe the ingredients in a product are for you. Cosmetic chemicals that act as allergens, irritants and hormone disruptors are the toxic ingredients that need to be identified and avoided at all costs.

While some of these may show immediate side effects, other ingredients deteriorate the condition of your skin over time. One would wonder how beauty companies could knowingly use toxic ingredients that might be harmful and inefficient. But, you would be surprised to know that most beauty products include small amounts of toxic ingredients that are then considered non-toxic because of their proportions and might even show immediate results. What most people fail to consider, however, are

the long-term effects these products have through constant usage.

So, while you might think, “Oh, this isn’t too bad for my skin,” you could still be potentially damaging your skin with hidden hormone disruptors or carcinogens. This brings us to:

TRANSPARENCY: it is extremely

important for the manufacturers to clearly identify their ingredients and not conceal them under deceptive terms. When a company clearly labels its products, it shows that it has nothing to hide and is conscious about what goes into them.

Due to the lack of awareness about clean ingredients, many people opt not to read the ingredients list.

Instead, they go for what looks or sounds best. Many organisations use this information to their advantage, adding labels like eco-friendly, cruelty-free, vegan, organic or allnatural to their products. Whilst it all might be true, it doesn’t necessarily mean the product is “clean”. This is called green-washing, where advertisers manipulate the customers into thinking a product is good for them through labels that convey no information about the toxins present in the product. Simply put, all-natural does not equate to non-toxic.

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WHY CHOOSE CLEAN BEAUTY?

Besides the fact that it is much better and healthier for your skin, you will be contributing to a better world. Clean beauty isn’t just about using products that are good for our skin now but also sustainable in the long run and eco-friendly for the world in which we live.

It resonates with our morals and ethics as much as it affects our physical health. It is 2021, and we are past toxic lifestyles, be it the food we put into our bodies or the food we put onto our skin. Perhaps the most important organ of our body is our skin, and it is our responsibility to treat it as such.

Clean beauty is mostly derived from natural, nontoxic ingredients that might not be very longlasting but are way more beneficial to us than complex botanical formulas full of unidentifiable ingredients. Opting for clean beauty means you are opting for healthier ingredients to be absorbed into your body, which will essentially ensure your overall well-being.

Initially, you might find it difficult to identify and discover the right products that are useful for you, but it’s a process worth going through because when you do finally find your clean beauty routine, it will be the optimal solution for glowing and healthy skin without having to compromise on your health or the environment.

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WHERE TO START:

Now that you know what clean beauty is, here are a few of the most harmful ingredients in your beauty essentials that you should be looking out for and eliminating in your daily products:

1.

PARABENS: parabens are used in beauty products to increase longevity by protecting the product from developing any bacteria. Among many side effects of parabens are hormone disruption, increased oestrogen levels, skin damage through reaction with UV exposure, allergic reaction, and irritation.

2.

PHTHALATE: a range of phthalate can be absorbed

3.

in the skin through beauty products. In various cases, phthalate acts as hormone disruptors by affecting the function of the endocrine system. They are identified through a range of acronyms seen on products, some of which are DEP, DBP and DMP.

FRAGRANCES: synthetic fragrances can have more ingredients than the product itself. Many companies use the term fragrance to hide questionable ingredients in their product.

4. FORMALDEHYDE: this is another preservative that can cause allergic reactions and irritation to the skin.

5.

POLYTHENE GLYCOL (PEGS): PEGS are product thickeners used in cosmetics, including makeup and skincare items, to change the consistency of the products. These can seriously harm the skin as well as cause allergic reactions and irritation.

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6. BHA (BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE) AND BHT (BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE) 7.

FORMALDEHYDE RELEASERS

8.

SILOXANES

9. TRICLOSAN 10. LEAD ACETATE

Make sure you take time to learn about your skin and what goes on it because, at the end of the day, it is important to be aware of what clean beauty entails to make a sound judgement that not only makes your skin glow but also lets you sleep peacefully at night.

About the author

AFSAH MAQSOOD

Afsah Maqsood is currently an undergraduate student pursuing her degree in Mass Communication.

She is an enthusiastic individual who is passionate about the evergrowing world of media. In her free time, she looks forward to reading novels, watching romantic Korean dramas and participating in various activities that catch her eye.

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RED HOT Model: Molly Szentesi Makeup: Husz Fédra Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Educator: Liv Rideg Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary

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ANIMAL INSTINCT Model: Eszter Ludvig Makeup: Szekely Timea Photo: Jozsef Balogh Retouch: Anna Petrova Educator: Liv Rideg Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary Out & About Magazine

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FINDING YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT Out & About Magazine

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You probably already have an abstract idea of what your signature scent should be. But, if we told you that your nose could distinguish between three trillion different scents — would you know where to begin?

If you are to find your perfect scent, first you need to know what you're buying. Illustrated on a 'pyramid', scents are split into three parts: the top, middle and base notes.

The top notes are the clean, citrusy, and fruity smells, and they are most apparent when you first spray on the fragrance. They are also the ones that disappear the fastest. In terms of their molecular structure, top notes are made up of the smallest molecules, which makes them evaporate the fastest.

In the middle are the heart notes, which are generally green, herbal, floral, or spicy smells that will become apparent as the top notes start to fade.

They last longer than the top notes and are the most dominant part of the scent you'll buy.

Lastly, the base notes are the underlying smells that form the foundation of the olfactory narrative.

They're vanillas, chocolates, woods, and musk — think earthy scents that are made up of the largest molecules in the fragrance and last the longest.

Once you understand a perfume's composition, it is time to start trying fragrances. However, note that your nose is limited in the number of scents it can process in a short period. So, you can only try five to 10 perfumes before it is overwhelmed and everything starts smelling the same. Our suggestion: start with some of the most notable perfume houses and niche fragrance brands to ensure you explore the very best the perfume world has to offer.

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When you have explored and sprayed five to 10 scents on the cards, pick the two you like the most and spray them on your skin — one on each wrist. Now leave the perfume shop and go about your day.

The pyramid we were talking about earlier now comes into play. As the day goes on, the two scents you've picked will develop.

They might come into their own and evolve into something far better and more interesting than you first tried in the shop.

They might even become flat and boring within 15 minutes. You won't know until you've tried them for yourself.

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Now, rinse and repeat.

Keep doing this until you find a scent you love. You might get lucky and find it on the first try, or it might take a couple of days.

Either way, enjoy smelling great for a few weeks. Once you've found the scent you believe to be your signature, it's time to choose which version of that scent you want.

We recommend that have staying power, so your signature scent is with you all day long!

CHOOSING

THE RIGHT LASHES FOR YOU

The right style and length of lashes can do wonders for your makeup and overall look but can also ruin it.

When choosing lashes, there are a few things we should consider.

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TYPES OF LASHES

Different eye shapes require different types of lashes. There are currently three major eyelash types on the market: strip lashes, individual lashes, and 1D, 2D, 3D lashes or those with more volume.

For people with big, round eyes, strip lashes are perfect for evening or glamorous makeup and occasions. They provide beautiful volume, and the correct lashes can open up your eyes.

I recommend one-time use for strip lashes, but you can also clean them and use them multiple times.

Individual lashes are built on your lash line, as close as can be applied to your eyelashes.

They give you a natural look but with beautiful volume. Mostly for bridal and glamorous makeup use, individual lashes are also perfect for mature skin types because they provide lovely volume and are not artificial.

Silk lashes or the different dimension lashes can last for a few weeks. They can look very natural as well as very artificial, depending on the number of Ds applied.

The 1D or 2D lashes are very soft and natural, and they will give you a beautiful look. On the other hand, 3D and 4D lashes are more appropriate for glam looks that require big round eyes.

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WHAT TO CONSIDER

When choosing the style and type of lashes, you need to consider the shape of your eyes, the length of your lashes, the occasion, and your personality. It’s always easier for a makeup artist to apply lashes during the makeup process than to work with already built lashes.

But, of course, it is your choice.

RECOMMENDATIONS

For strip lashes, mink lashes provide super volume and a beautiful look. Check the length of strip lashes and cut them to the length of your lash line, if necessary. If they are longer than your lash line, they can close up your eyes and make them look sad and tired.

Individual lashes are great for smaller, hooded eyes.

When applying them, we usually use the same length lashes as your eyelashes and, to the outer corner, we put longer lashes to give you a beautiful, cat-eye look.

If you choose the right style of lashes, they will make your eyes appear big, open, and super glamorous.

PUMP UP THE VOLUME WITH LASHES

As a makeup artist, I am always suggesting to my clients to apply some lashes to pump up the volume of the eyelashes, especially when it comes to glam and bridal makeup.

With some practice and patience, you can apply strip and individual lashes yourself. Just make sure you have the right products like tweezers, lash glue and the correct lashes for your eyes.

Liv Rideg is an award-winning professional makeup artist and hairstylist with 21 years of experience in the beauty industry. She is currently based in Europe but has worked across the globe, including a spell in Dubai.

Liv specialises in bridal, beauty, glamour, creative and fantasy makeup. She has also been teaching makeup techniques and different styles since 2010.

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located In Rangali Island, Maldives. To book a reservation at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, please call +960 668 0629 or visit conradmaldives.com

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SALAMA MOHAMED peacefull.com @peacefull @PeacefullSkin

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1.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.

Hmm, who is Salama Mohamed? I’m a wife and mother to two beautiful children, but I’m always evolving—Salama of today is not of yesterday and is not of tomorrow. I’m trying to be a great role model for my community whilst bringing happiness to those around me.

I want to give people the confidence to be comfortable in their skin and thus be at peace. And if I can leave the world a little more Peacefull than I met it, then I would have lived a full life.

2.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEWLY LAUNCHED

BRAND AND ITS MISSION.

I strongly believe that being at peace with your skin is the highest form of self-love—that is the Peacefull message. Peacefull is a skincare brand from the region for the region!

3.

HOW DID THE NAME PEACEFULL COME ABOUT?

I’ve always said that being at peace in your skin is the highest form of self-love and, I’m not sure if you know, but Salama, my name, means peace and safety, so there was such a direct link that it just felt right. And we specifically spell with a double ‘l’ to emphasise how Peacefull our products are and make you feel!

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4.

WHY THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY?

5.

WHO USES THE PEACEFULL RANGE?

Honestly, we didn’t think of the beauty industry, or any industry for that matter, when creating Peacefull. We wanted to create a lifestyle for people! We wanted a brand that seamlessly fit into people’s lives—to be as simple as it is to brush your teeth or take a shower every day. Think, a simple hygienic lifestyle.

We are an inclusive brand made for everyone—all genders, all nationalities, all skin types—and sensitive skin for those aged 18 and above.

6. HOW

HAS

YOUR

ADDED

VITILIGO

BEAUTY IMPACTED THE CREATION OF THE PEACEFULL RANGE?

I’ve been blessed with vitiligo and sensitive skin from early on, so I’ve always searched for skincare products that would provide my skin with what it needed, but couldn’t find ones that hit the mark for me. Eventually, through my search, I stumbled on Korean skincare and discovered the healing powers of active ingredients through the 10-step skincare routine, and I have not looked back since! I swear by it; it completely changed my skin and my relationship with skincare.

This ultimately led to me creating Peacefull, which you can say started out of necessity because I needed products that would help my sensitive skin. After finding Korean skincare and active ingredients, I wanted to share formulas that work with my community because I truly believe we all deserve good skincare!

7.

WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF BEAUTY?

To be comfortable in your skin.

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8. WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO WOMEN WHO WANT TO STEP OUT INTO ENTREPRENEURSHIP?

You can do it! Not just women, but everyone!

9.

WHAT’S THAT ONE QUOTE THAT YOU LIVE BY?

There are two quotes I love. The first is from Maya Angelou, who said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” This, essentially, means that if you have a dream or idea, you must do everything in your power to bring it to fruition, or you may never be satisfied.

And the second is by Kris Jenner, which says, “If somebody says, ‘No’, you’re asking the wrong person.” This has taught me to never take no for an answer.

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Kingston 21 Jamaican Restaurant

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Tower - Al Raha Blvd - Al Raha Beach Abu Dhabi www.kingston21.ae 02 546 8500

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TAKING LESSONS

SALMA KAYALI Company: Aldar salma-kayali-b0381416/

salma.cooks.uae

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1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CAREER JOURNEY. My name is Salma. I am a resident of the UAE; I’ve been here for nine years. I’m originally Syrian. I’m the type of person you would call a third culture kid. I was born and raised outside Syria; my parents immigrated when they were young. Currently, I work at Aldar as VP of Innovation. I pursued my career in general management at Carnegie Mellon and Stern School at NYU for data analytics.

2. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE CURRENT PACE OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN THE UAE? The UAE vision has been focused on innovation and digital transformation as key priorities. Some of the strategies and visions that they’ve launched are the UAE Vision 2021 and the Centennial vision, where they focus primarily on investing in the knowledge-based economy and investing in innovation, research and development, adopting tech that is advanced and cutting-edge within the UAE.

3. WHAT’S THE SECRET TO BEING AN INNOVATIVE COMPANY?

A company needs to embed innovation within its DNA. It has to have processes that allow it to test concepts in an agile manner, policies that support innovation, and, most importantly, leadership endorses this from the top down.

4. CAN A COMPANY TEACH ITS PEOPLE TO BE INNOVATIVE? That’s a very good question. It depends on how you define innovation. When you look at innovation, a company can build awareness and knowledge; it can upskill their staff, it can provide them with the tools and skill set. However, there is a specific personality when it comes to innovation, he or she is differentiated by certain characteristics. Research has shown that innovative people tend to be more curious, critical thinkers, and problem-solvers. They have an appetite for calculated risk. So you can take a horse to water, but you can’t force them to drink.

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5. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST OBSTACLES TO INNOVATION?

A corporation, by definition, is a large organisation that has been established over time. They have a manual, they have processes that have proven successful, and it has scaled over time. So, by definition, this organisation needs to protect itself by sticking to those regulations and these processes. And that usually inhibits innovation. That’s not to say that an organisation cannot innovate; certain best practices need to be adopted within our organisation to promote innovation. Such as setting up either a separate, autonomous entity that can operate, has a budget and resources, or a hybrid model where there’s a division within the organisation, but it’s supported by leadership and specific, unique processes and budgets.

6. WHICH INNOVATIVE TRENDS DO YOU THINK HOLD THE MOST WEIGHT RIGHT NOW? Customers and investors are looking at companies that embody ethical practices, such as adopting ethically created products and services. Now, some of these solutions are picking up in the industry, especially in the real estate industry—such as greywater management, air purification solutions, waste management, and remote monitoring solutions.

We’re also looking at augmented reality and virtual reality. All these solutions are very important in this day and age, especially postCOVID.

7. ANY MAJOR LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNT ALONG YOUR CAREER JOURNEY? I think it’s very important to know your values as an individual, as a professional, and how that would influence your team. I learned to build resilience very early on in my career, and to be honest with myself about my weaknesses and my strengths, and work on those. I also learnt not to shy away from opportunities that could be challenging.

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Now, I would say one of the very important things to do is celebrate our success and our accomplishments. I know that we, as women, sometimes shy away from that, but it’s very crucial to build your own brand and to create a strong network that will be invaluable for you as a professional.

8. WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF BEING A VP OF A LARGE COMPANY? I am a single mum of two—a boy and a girl.

Outside my daily job, I love cooking and recipe creation. I’ve set up an Instagram page, as you said, to simplify cooking. I know that cooking could be very daunting, especially for mums who are on the go or professionals, men and women who are on the go and still want to eat healthily. So I’ve set up this page to inspire them, to share with them some of the recipes that have worked for me. And I was amazed to see the growth and the followers over the last few months.

9. HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR ROLE AS A MOTHER WITH YOUR CAREER? It’s not about the number of hours I spend; I always say it’s the quality over the quantity. I think spending time with your family should be about doing great things together and having that balance to do so.

Now, as a mother, as a person, you have to be in the right mindset to be there and be present for your children. I think, to do that and achieve, you have to be in the right mindset, meaning that your needs as an individual should have been catered for and met. Of course, I am lucky to be able to afford help being here in the UAE and also lucky that I’ve been through such hard times and have found that the country has supported me as a female. Also, at an early stage of my career, I’ve always looked for a company that valued work-life balance.

And I am fortunate to be working at Aldar, where diversity and inclusion is one of their top priorities.

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10. TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM AND THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING SUCH A NETWORK. I am blessed to have a support circle that I can tap into when necessary. For me, it is a safe space where judgement does not exist. And I do advise most women, all women and men really, to have that support network that could help them during testing times, that could support them and be there for them. I also advise women to surround themselves with like-minded individuals who can inspire them and keep a diverse outlook on life.

11. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN LOOKING TO MOVE INTO SENIOR POSITIONS? I would advise women to build their own brand, speak up about their accomplishments and celebrate their successes. Don’t be afraid to have a strong voice at the table. And, most importantly, as we discussed earlier, build a network; have a number of allies there to support you. Make sure you have a mentor—a female mentor—that can inspire you, and don’t forget to pay it forward.

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For more information and reservations, visit Jumeirah Zabeel Saray or call +971 4 453 0000.

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LIFESTYLE

PERSONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS:

INDULGENCE OR NECESSITY? Present yourself well. Make the right impression. We hear these reminders as often as we hear words of encouragement when others wish us good luck before any big day.

As children, we learn about good manners, proper behaviour, and pleasant appearance as soon as we start walking and speaking.

We receive praise and rewards when we say “Please” and “Thank you” and behave well at the table, or when we manage to keep our clothes relatively clean after messy sandbox play or monkey bar hoops with our playground friends.

Systematically, when growing up and acquiring more skills and greater social understanding, we kept developing the best version of ourselves to create our public persona.

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OUTER IMAGE AND SELF-PRESENTATION

It takes a few moments or sometimes even a glance to create an impression of others. Whether these feelings are accurate or not, they determine how we react and treat each other. Deep down, we understand the mechanics of personal assessment.

Many of us are concerned about what others think of us and how we are perceived. After all, people’s impressions can greatly impact our lives, for example, in the context of a job interview.

To establish a good reputation and an easy rapport, consciously or not, we want to manage our impressions to gain the acceptance of others and to attain our goals. We want to navigate our relationships with our self-presentation forming our best image.

Depending on the circumstances, we try to play to the audience’s values to fulfil social norms and people’s expectations.

CREATING PUBLIC PERSONA

Who we are in public when in the company of other people, is our public persona.

Some people perceive being concerned with appearance and paying attention to our image negatively, refusing to be social chameleons. Yet, self-presentation is a natural inclination that is useful for our well-being, growth and development.

Depending on the circumstances and social circles, we do our best to fit in, playing our roles accordingly. Our social life and position are fundamental aspects of our existence. Our motives and behaviours vary and change based on our surroundings and our company.

Our presentation will often be more relaxed and casual in close relationships and will be more official and proper when managing our image at work or in professional situations.

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CONSTRUCTING A POSITIVE PUBLIC IMAGE

We are curious about others. When we get to know someone, we can recognise our similarities and differences to determine if we can connect and thrive together. We look for connections.

If we work for a company, we want to make sure that we align with its mission, vision and culture to feel fit for it and bond with our colleagues and associates. If we have our own business, we become the face of it. Our persona closely connects with the brand. Our customers want to get acquainted with us to understand the products or the services we offer. They want to know our history, motivation, and our why.

with engaging content instead of paid promotions. The primary goal is to earn the interest of our audience with effective communication and riveting storytelling. The way we present ourselves, our products or services, can build trust and create fulfilling and long-lasting relationships.

It is about supporting our position, recognising our accomplishments or purchasing our products or services with purpose; thus, creating win-win, mutually beneficial outcomes for the parties involved.

Creating and building our persona and managing our public relations is necessary to expand our business and social standing.

Public relations is a conscious and well-planned narrative to advance our progress. We use public relations to build, enhance or even protect our image and our reputation through social media, general media press releases or announcements, self-produced transmissions, or public appearances.

THE POWER OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

Public relations is about shaping our image, building our public persona and enhancing our reputation.

Let’s not confuse public relations with marketing or advertisements. It is value delivery and persuading

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EFFECTIVE PERSONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS

Per Aspera ad Astra (Latin for “Through the hardships to the stars”).

It takes time and effort to create and build our image. The process is individualised, depending on our interests, goals and creative pursuits. The most effective way to create a well-defined, positive public persona is to invest in it with zest and determination.

Build your personality. Think of your interests, hobbies and passions. Dedicate time to what engages you and what makes you tick. Learn about it in detail, as this knowledge will make you stand out from the crowd and engage your audience, giving a chance for others to learn from you, discover similarities with you, or opening up a new path of interest for others to explore.

Define your style of presentation and communication. Remain professional and respectful, yet follow your set values. That will help you paint your self-portrait, remain true to yourself and channel your in-person and online interactions. Do not shy away from showing your enthusiasm and your sense of humour.

Showcase your professional expertise. Share your interests, education, experiences, and professional knowledge. Present problems your business solves and the solutions it provides to the community. Comment on topics you know about, either online or in live discussions. Share your advice and your content with groups you connect with and circles you attend.

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Watch your social media presence. Do not share everything. Tailor your content according to the platform and your audience. Consider having a separate account for personal photos and stories to be shared with family and close friends only. Leverage your online presence by connecting with industry influencers and groups, as well as your clients and associates, to exchange information and intelligence.

Foster transparency. Not everything goes according to plan. Mistakes do happen.

Hiding errors and mishaps can surface and fuel backlash. It is much better to address issues and indicate your commitment to making changes and implementing improvements. It helps keep a positive line of communication and maintain a good personal image, even during difficult situations.

PERSONA BEHIND THE MASK

“The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.” —Aristotle

Our public persona is what we show to the world—a key asset in our representation. We envision and then create our persona, the same way we create a painting or a sculpture.

We are becoming our creation—an art.

Investing early on in our knowledge and experiences and pursuing our interests with passion helps build our personality and character.

We emanate confidence and shine with our eloquence and expertise. We present who we are and what we feel, not just through outward appearance but also our inward significance.

When we deliver substantial value, and what we say correlates with what we do, there is no need to put a mask on to the public. When we are authentically and genuinely showcasing and sharing our rich and abundant inner world, we can proudly present our public persona to an outside audience.

“People do not buy goods and services. They buy relations, stories, and magic.” —Seth Godin

About the author

ANNA NIEMIRA Anna is a corporate consulting professional experienced in international capital markets, finance, and innovative technologies. Being an effective communicator, negotiator, and strategic management ambassador focused on growth and development, she served as a Director of Business Development at various organisations and has been called upon to serve as a judge and mentor at various financial and entrepreneurial competitions.

She studied Blockchain technology at York University, Lassonde School of Engineering, Strategic Business Management and Negotiations at Harvard University, and received her accreditations from the Canadian Securities Institute. Fascinated with a holistic approach to life and business, and wanting to understand the human mind and human behaviour, Anna studied foundations of psychology at Yale University.

She is a media personality known for her stage presence at various speaking engagements, popular talks, and interviews with progressive, innovative technology entrepreneurs, industry influencers, and idea trendsetters.

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MONEY MINDSET

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I feel like I have been talking about money a lot recently.

In fact, my last article for Out and About Magazine was on how to retire early. Did you read it? I genuinely believe that you will not be able to retire comfortably, let alone early, unless you develop a resilient money mindset.

In this article, I will be exploring what we all need to do to get our money mindset right and how to keep it that way when things get tough.

For this article, I will define money mindset as the set of beliefs you have about money and your attitude towards earning, spending, saving, and investing money. I am no financial advisor, and my knowledge of money comes from the school of hard knocks. I always encourage anyone who wants to learn more about money to become a student and seek the advice of professionals.

But what I know for sure is that no financial professional can give you a resilient money mindset—that is work that you will have to do on your own. I hope that this article is at least the start. Keep reading!

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BECOME CLEAR ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT The hardest thing for people to define and explain is what they want. Don’t believe me? Ask yourself this question: what do I want out of life? Go ahead, do it. Then write down exactly what you want; be specific.

You may even divide it into categories.

What do I want out of my family life, business, career, friendships, et cetera?

I have asked myself this question, and I find that it is not as easy to answer as I first thought.

What I have come to realise is that what we want changes, and that is okay, but what is not okay is never having defined what we want in the first place. Not knowing exactly what you want your life to be like could be why you do not have control over your money or your money mindset. You know the old saying, “if you do not know where you are going, then any road will lead you there”? The same is true about your life and your money.

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WHAT YOU DO WITH YOUR MONEY SAYS A LOT ABOUT WHO YOU ARE This is a tough statement to make but take a moment to examine it. The things you spend your money on and how you spend your money tells the world what you value. If I have no interest in jewellery, I would not be found browsing jewellery stores frequently, nor would I have a fully stocked jewellery box. If you want to know what you value, look around your home. What do you have an oversupply of?

If you are unhappy about the way you are spending money, don’t adjust your budget; adjust your mindset.

Start looking at the things you value. Are they the right things? Are they your true values? Are you just keeping up appearances? These are fundamental questions to ask yourself. You may say you value financial freedom, but are your spending habits reflecting that or are they reflecting something else? Someone who values financial freedom would be working hard on savings and investments.

That person would not be taking excessively expensive holidays or buying clothes that they do not need or eating out a lot et cetera.

Where your money goes, there your values are. To develop a resilient money mindset, how you spend your money needs to line up with your true values. Don’t just wish for it; work for it.

QUESTION EVERYTHING

I mean, question everything society tells you, everything people tell you, and even the things you tell yourself (more on that later). I am no conspiracy theorist, but I believe that the media and society, in general, is designed to mess with your money mindset and make you weak instead of resilient.

We also tell ourselves stories about other people.

We look at people’s highlight reels on social media and tell ourselves stories about their lives that might be so far from the truth. He or she has bought a house, is going on a vacation or buying a new car, they must be doing well. The story, in reality, could be true, or it could be that they are in over their heads in debt.

The media is always pushing an agenda. It is always telling you that you are less than, if you do not own this car or house, phone, jewellery; you get my drift?

Every time you are being sold the latest this or that, question why they want you to buy it. What is the seller’s motivation, what do they stand to gain? Never be suckered into making decisions based on what other people are pushing or according to somebody else’s agenda. Take time to check in with yourself before you make any buying decisions. Trust your gut. Trusting your gut and questioning everything is a great way to strengthen your money mindset.

Tell yourself another story. Tell yourself that you are happy for them and wish them happiness, and then start being grateful for where you are and what you have. Gratitude is the best way to change a story that would otherwise end in jealousy, unhappiness and overspending in an attempt to overcompensate. If you truly want to have a resilient money mindset, you have to be the master of the stories you tell yourself. Make sure the story ends with you winning and achieving your highest goals.

WHAT IS THE MONEY STORY THAT YOU ARE TELLING YOURSELF?

We are all living our lives based on the stories we tell ourselves. The good news is that we can start telling ourselves a new story any time we want to. Do you want to develop a resilient money mindset? Start questioning the stories you tell yourself.

I am a huge fan of technological gadgets. I am always tempted to spend a lot of money on the latest phone or computer gadget. It normally starts like this: if I buy the latest iPhone et cetera, then I will have a better camera and I can then use it to take better photos for my business. When I question the story I am telling myself, I realise that I have not been taking many photos with the phone I already have. The phone I already have takes pretty decent photos, and I have underused it.

One of the greatest things you can do for your money and your life is to start questioning the stories you tell yourself. Do you really need another pair of jeans, or are the ones you already have enough? Do you really not have anything to wear to that event, or are you just not looking carefully at what is already in your wardrobe? Do you need to travel to another country for some rest and relaxation, or could you do that at home or with an affordable staycation?

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DON’T JUST BUDGET MORE, EARN MORE I am so tired of all the financial gurus who only talk about budgeting. Budgeting is good, but I think there is a far better way. A lot of the budgeting advice, in my opinion, comes from a scarcity mindset. It comes from a place that believes that there is not enough to fulfil all your needs, so you must stick within the lines. Budgeting is not fun, and that is why so many of us fail at it and still end up in debt, despite our best efforts.

Instead of budgeting, I propose that you earn more. The world is abundant; there is more than enough of everything for everyone, I really believe that. Instead of asking, how can this fit into my budget? Ask yourself how I can make more money to be able to afford this. Start looking at your gifts and talents. You will be surprised at how much you will be able to make if you put your gifts and talents to good use.

I make it a game; if I want to take a nice holiday, I

check how much it will cost and then I start to look at how I can earn money to pay for it. I enjoy the twists, turns, highs, and lows. Usually, if I do not hit the goal, I land very close.

You cannot develop a resilient money mindset if you operate from a place of scarcity. Start telling yourself that there is abundance around you.

Start believing that whatever you want can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Do not be distracted by what is happening around you. If you fail, get back up and start again.

About author Leisa Grace Wilson is an educator, entrepreneur, blogger, and podcaster. She currently lives in Abu Dhabi with her eight-year-old twin boys and husband. Leisa is passionate about personal development, entrepreneurship, finances, and education. You can connect with Leisa by visiting her blog www.leisagrace.com or on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LEISA GRACE WILSON

Leisa is an educator, entrepreneur and blogger. She currently lives in Abu Dhabi with her seven-year-old twin boys and husband. Leisa is passionate about personal development, entrepreneurship, finances and the world of education. You can connect with Leisa by visiting her blog www.leisagrace.com or connect with her on Linkedin https://www.linkedin. com/in/leisagrace/

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DEALING WITH FIBROIDS AND ENDOMETRIOSIS Being a woman is a powerful but difficult role, as the fairer sex innately goes above and beyond her call of duty.

Plus, having to also deal with health issues that sometimes appear during childbearing age does not make being a woman any easier.

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COMMON IN WOMEN

Endometriosis and fibroids both impact women of reproductive age. In fact, between 20 to 70 per cent of women will develop uterine fibroids.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), endometriosis affects about 10 per cent of women and girls of reproductive age globally.

The two conditions, though not synonymous, share some similarities.

WHO defines endometriosis as a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and/or infertility. According to the non-profit academic medical centre Mayo Clinic, Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years and range in size from seedlings—undetectable by the human eye—to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus.

SYMPTOMS

Both conditions are linked to the uterus. However, while many women might not know they have fibroids because they often cause no symptoms, endometriosis is associated with symptoms such as painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, painful urination, fatigue, pain during and/or after sex, depression or anxiety, painful bowel movements, and abdominal bloating and nausea.

When symptoms appear in individuals with fibroids, they usually include heavy menstrual bleeding, constipation, backache or leg pains, menstrual periods lasting more than a week, difficulty

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emptying the bladder, and pelvic pressure or pain.

CAUSES

While some factors, such as age, family history, ethnic origin, obesity, and eating habits, increase a woman’s risk of developing fibroids, no one definitively knows the condition’s cause. Similarly, the cause of endometriosis is also not certain, but several factors—including retrograde menstruation and embryonic cell transformation—are said to be possible reasons.

Though fibroids could cause pregnancy loss, infertility and raise the risk of certain pregnancyrelated complications, they do not usually interfere with getting pregnant. On the other hand, one of the main complications associated with endometriosis is reportedly “impaired fertility”. In fact, Mayo Clinic says, “Approximately one-third to one-half of women with endometriosis have difficulty getting pregnant.”

COPING WITH THE HEALTH CONDITIONS

The pressure is on, right? Check out these lifestyle changes that could help when dealing with endometriosis and fibroids:

MANAGE STRESS LEVELS

Meditating, practising yoga, and tai chi are some relaxation techniques that you can try to help reduce your stress level and make yourself comfortable if impacted by fibroids.

For those with endometriosis, take a break when you need it, and do not feel guilty.

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EXERCISE REGULARLY

At least one study has shown that women who exercised about seven hours per day had the lowest chance of developing fibroids, so maintaining regular workouts looks to be in your favour.

In women with endometriosis, regular exercise is one of the best coping mechanisms for the mental, emotional and physical anguish that might accompany the health condition.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET

Certain foods are said to increase the pain and symptoms associated with endometriosis. It is, therefore, advised

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that women with the condition get enough fibre in their diet, with foods like brown rice, vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains. Individuals with endometriosis should also reportedly avoid caffeine and alcohol and incorporate foods like tuna, salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed, which are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids in their diet.

For women with fibroids, it is advised that they, too, should avoid caffeine and eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables.

One report also advised that women with fibroids should stay away from foods high in sugar, processed foods, and red meat, as these can make fibroids worse.

SAADIYAT ROTANA RESORT & VILLAS SAADIYAT ISLAND, ABU DHABI UNITED ARAB EMIRATES T: +971 2 697 0000 | F: +971 2 697 0123 Out & About Magazine

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CHILDREN: EXPENSE OR INVESTMENT?

When adults reach a certain age, the expectation of them having their own family increases; they are expected to raise a child just as their parents raised them.

The problem is, some parents see children as an investment or an expense.

Some parents, because they supported their children financially, think they are indebted to them and that their children should pay them back and take care of them when they grow old. This notion sparked a dilemma that the world had trouble fixing, that is, until recently.

Older people instil in the minds of their offspring that the reason to have a child is to have someone to take care of you when you grow old. Most millennials oppose this mindset.

On the other hand, the younger generation views children as a lifetime responsibility you can’t just abandon. That’s why some millennials are making the decision not to have children.

They have this idea that raising a child in today’s world will cost them so much financially, mentally, and emotionally because they understand all too well that a child is a responsibility that a parent chooses.

Some people who dreamt of being parents one day are now rethinking their decision because looking at a child as an investment or expense has been implanted in their minds since they were children themselves.

With the debate garnering thousands—if not millions—of opinions and reactions on the Internet, most millennials have come to an understanding that children’s main role in a family is to be loved and looked after. They are not to be treated as an investment nor viewed as an expense.

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While it is true that parents should shower their children with love, it is not entirely wrong to teach them how to live frugally.

For example, working on credit scores when they are financially stable or teaching budgeting to children at a young age will help them understand how to prioritise their needs while saving for their wants.

If understood well, this can help them grasp setting goals and planning how to achieve them. Handling finances when they become adults can become a cause of stress if not taught at a young age.

If a couple wants to be parents, they should be ready for this lifetime commitment and responsibility. Eldercare should not be the main reason to want to have offspring.

Children are not indebted to their parents just because they raised them, gave them a home, fed them, and financed their education. All these things are obligations that parents need to fulfil since they decided to have children.

So, while growing a family, make sure you won’t be dependent on your children.

Never treat them as an investment that can be redeemed when you grow old.

Looking at children as an expense or investment

is unfair. It is not a child’s choice to be born; he or she is your responsibility and not the other way around. Your child is not your property. Children will eventually develop their own beliefs about how they want their lives to be. And, as a parent, you need to be supportive as long as it does not harm them or any other human being.

People say that when a person becomes a parent they become selfless—they are willing to do everything for their children’s welfare, even if it means being left with nothing for themselves.

Essentially, children should be viewed as symbols of love: a product of a couple’s love for each other. The main reason for wanting to have children should be the desire to raise a wonderful person in this world, which can also be the parents’ drive to be good examples to their children.

It is not bad to give them everything they need and want, as long as you can provide it. It should be your number one goal as a parent to give your children a comfortable life. Making a physically and mentally comfortable home for your children can be their peace. It is a fulfilment if you get to be the person that you want while teaching your children how they should become.

The actions that they see from you can guide adulthood, so make sure that, as parents, you are doing the things you want to instil in your children. Being ready, in all aspects, can help a lot in raising children.

The only return on investment that you should crave is seeing your children become the best version of themselves.

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About the Author

AUSSY APORTADERA

Aussy is pursuing an unhurried life in the beachside town of La Union, Philippines. After a career in communications and publishing, she is now a yoga teacher and coowner of a ceramics brand.

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Boutique No.8, Aswaaq Center, Al Badaa, Al Wasl Road, Dubai.

Boutique 13, Building 8, Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. www.mokha1450.com

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FOOD

TOP

YOUR

AVOCADO

TOAST THESE

5 WAYS 98

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The yellow-green flesh of the avocado comes packed with flavour and nutritional benefits and is the go-to fruit for many who want a quick, easy and tasty bite atop their toast.

With its wide variety of nutrients, the low-carb plant source can be prepared in numerous ways to keep your tastebuds happy each time you have avocado toast.

Check out these five ways to top your avocado toast and satisfy any craving!

TOMATO AVOCADO TOAST For an effortless toast that packs a little extra punch, add some cherry tomatoes to your avocado toast.

If the colourful mix of green and red does not amp up your appetite, the first tasty bite definitely will.

Check out this quick and easy recipe here.

FRIED EGG AND AVOCADO TOAST Adding the fried egg, a breakfast favourite, to your avocado toast will unleash a whole new flavourful rush to your taste buds.

Already an item that is likely on the menu at the table for breakfast, topping your avocado toast with fried egg can also make it a tasty meal for lunch or dinner!

You definitely don’t want to miss out on this winwin combo that will put a smile on everyone’s face.

What are you waiting for? Try it!

Find the recipe here.

GOURMET AVOCADO TOAST Take your pick of strawberries or cherries, but this recipe is bringing ‘toast-spiration’ with a mix of berries.

See what we did there?

No need to raid the fridge for leftovers when you can use these plant-based toppings to take your toast to the next level.

See the recipe here.

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TURKEY BACON AVOCADO TOAST You are likely aware of the wonders of adding turkey bacon to your favourite sandwich, but have you tried it with avocado toast?

Another topping idea that makes a delicious meal. If you already love your turkey bacon, then topping your avocado toast with it will not disappoint.

Check out this recipe.

CHICKEN AVOCADO TOAST Chicken is already a staple on its own, but as a topping for your avocado toast, you will appreciate that extra kick and more filling bite.

So, if you are wondering what to do with that leftover chicken, add it to your avocado toast!

Check it out here.

Avocado toast is here to stay. So, whether you choose to have it as your go-to breakfast, lunch or dinner, these five topping ideas will ensure that you get something extra each time it hits your plate.

You can thank us later!

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HYDRATION ALTERNATIVES TO THAT BOTTLE OF WATER

Staying hydrated is key to health and well-being—but it doesn’t take much to mess up the water balance in our bodies.

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Among water’s many important responsibilities are: • Regulating body temperature; • Aiding digestion; • Keeping skin supple; and • Supporting cognitive and cardiac function—and those duties are just for starters.

If you struggle to gulp down eight glasses of water per day, we might have the solution.

Eat your water alternatives.

Keep your body hydrated by consuming fruits and veggies that contain 85 per cent or more water.

SUMMER FRUITS

Summer farmers markets are overflowing with fruits high in water. In addition to the forgotten fruit tomato, which is 94 percent water, topping the list are strawberries and watermelon, both of which are 92 percent water. Cantaloupe is 90 percent water, followed by peaches (88 percent water). Summer favourites like pineapples and oranges offer 87 percent water.

Remember not to go overboard. While fruits are great water sources, they’re also high in sugar and can contain unwanted calories if you eat too many.

VEGETABLES

Try cucumbers and lettuce, for example, which are packed with 96 percent water. Next on the mostwater-filled list are celery and radishes, with 95 percent water. Other top performers include cauliflower, bell peppers and spinach (92 percent water).

DRINK YOUR WATER ALTERNATIVES COCONUT WATER

Coconut water is, undoubtedly, the best hydrating drink. It is low in calories, rich in potassium, and said to have better hydrating qualities than plain water. It is also high in electrolytes., which are essential for replenishing and regulating body fluids.

Dehydration can lead to feelings of tiredness and fatigue. The electrolytes can help keep you feeling alert and awake!

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TEA

Similarly, tea is a good source of H2O (and antioxidants).

This one might come as a surprise, but coffee is mostly water! It also contains a lot of antioxidants that are linked to all kinds of health benefits.

COFFEE

Of course, you need to watch your caffeine intake because it could affect your sleep and cause other stomach and irritability issues. In other words, this can’t be your only source of hydration, but it can be in the mix.

Supplying a host of nutrients, milk has excellent hydrating properties. Milk naturally contains high concentrations of electrolytes, which help balance the amount of water in your body. The high-quality protein in milk also makes it an ideal post-exercise beverage for kick-starting muscle repair and rebuilding.

Keep in mind that consuming milk after exercise may cause stomach discomfort like bloating. Milk is also not an appropriate option for people who are intolerant to lactose or some milk proteins.

MILK

ALOE VERA JUICE

Aloe vera has recently adopted a superfood status, and rightly so. It is packed with antioxidants and has some powerful regenerative properties.

It helps detoxify your gut and offers many beauty benefits, such as radiant and glowing skin.

You can dunk some chunks of freshly scooped aloe vera in your water to make a hydrating drink or down the freshly squeezed juice.

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Time Out Market Dubai

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Souk Al Bahar - Downtown Dubai - Dubai www.timeoutmarket.com/dubai/

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TRAVEL

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ANANTARA’S

TOP 10 THINGS

TO SEE

AND DO

IN PHUKET

For decades, Phuket has been one of Thailand’s most popular island destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. With the disappearance of international tourists for the last 18 months, the island’s stunning beaches have once again become pristine, the azure waters teeming with an abundance of sea life, and the surrounding islands rejuvenated with lush greenery never before seen.

Now, the island has begun to welcome back visitors from around the world, Anantara has put together a top 10 unmissable things to experience on a visit to Phuket.

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1.

GO ON A WALK THROUGH HISTORY

Phuket has come a long way from its beginnings as a tin-mining settlement but, with a little imagination, you can almost see the merchants of yore arraying goods inside the ornate Sino-Portuguese shophouses in Phuket Town. Converted into trendy restaurants, guesthouses and boutique hotels, they have since received a new lease on life—many restored to their former glory.

2.

INSTA-FLOAT AMONGST GIANT LILIES

3.

A BRIDGE TO THE HEART

If you like your nature to come with a side of strange and unusual, you will love the Ma Doo Bua Café. A must-visit destination for botanists and Instagrammers alike, this lakeside eatery is home to a colony of giant water lilies strong enough to hold the weight of a child (or a very light adult).

Ask any older resident of Phuket, and they will recount the story of the island’s very own Romeo and Juliet, who met their untimely end on the Sarasin Bridge.

Connecting the mainland of Phuket and Phang Nga in southern Thailand, the bridge opened in 1967 and is considered by some to be the most beautiful bridge in the country. In 1987 it entered the collective memory when the tragic romance between two young lovers was made into a film titled Saphan Rak Sarasin (Sarasin, The Bridge of Love).

Whether you come here to reflect on life, love or have a photoshoot at the pretty pergola overlooking the river, Sarasin Bridge is guaranteed to make an impact.

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4.

TAKE PART IN A SEA TURTLE RELEASE

Five of the world’s seven existent species of sea turtles— Leatherback, the Loggerhead, the Olive Ridley, the Hawksbill, and the Green turtles—can be found in the waters of the Andaman Sea. All are classified as either endangered or threatened.

Mai Khao Beach is one of the few Phuket beaches that continues to welcome nesting turtles, thanks to the efforts of Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation that focuses on enhanced nest protection and improved incubation conditions. Anantara Mai Khao’s Annual Turtle Release takes place around the Songkran holiday in mid-April and brings the entire community together.

5.

TIPPLE ON THE ISLAND’S RUM

6.

EXPERIENCE LOCAL LIFE

To explore a more contemporary side of Phuket, head to the award-winning Chalong Bay Rum Distillery. Plan to spend a few hours here as you tour the facilities, learning the centuries-old French technique of using copper stills before joining a cocktail-making workshop centred on Chalong Bay’s pure sugar cane juice rum. Distilled and bottled in Phuket and packed with local botanicals, it skilfully showcases the terroir of the island.

Koh Panyee is a small fishing village built on stilts, a 20-minute longtail boat ride from the main island. The local Muslim community is always welcoming and ready to show you their unique home in the shallow waters. The floating village has a school, a mosque, small souvenir shops, and restaurants. The community is also football mad and have their very own floating football stadium, and their love of the game has made them one of Southern Thailand’s best football teams.

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7.

SEE GIBBONS ETHICALLY

Gibbons were poached to the brink of extinction in Phuket’s jungle more than 40 years ago. Today, they are illegally kept as pets or used as props in tourist photos, feeding the demand for baby gibbons. But there is a way to engage with these gorgeous creatures ethically. Phuket’s Gibbon Rehabilitation Project—a research division of the Wild Animal Rescue Foundation of Thailand (WARF)— rescues gibbons and rehabilitates them so that they can be reintroduced into their natural habitat.

Visit the centre to learn about the work the centre is doing, as well as observe the animals at the designated viewing areas.

8.

HE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN T LAYAN EXPERIENCE

If you choose to accept it, your mission is to enjoy the ‘Golden Gun’ experience at Anantara Layan Residences.

Catch a private jet from Bangkok to Phuket, be whisked by a chauffeur-driven limo to the eight-bedroom Villa Similan—the largest and most luxurious of the resort’s residences. Enjoy martinis (shaken, not stirred) by your own private butler before being presented with THE actual golden gun from the 1974 movie. A glamorous yacht cruise around Phang Nga Bay, where The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed, with free-flowing Krug champagne, tops off the Bond experience.

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9.

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

Phuket’s famous Sunday Walking Street Market on old Thalang Road has something for everyone, from second-hand goods and clothes to souvenirs, and the best part of it is the amazing array of local food to sample. Even if you aren’t looking to buy, the electric atmosphere and historic setting are guaranteed to charm.

10. GET BACK TO NATURE

Take a hike to the island’s last virgin rainforest, Khao Phra Thaeo National Park.

The rainforest is known for its wide array of birds and wildlife, but the main attraction is the Bang Pae waterfall, offering a cool spot to swim after a long hike.

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SARAY SPA, AL WATHBA,

A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA, ABU DHABI

AL WATHBA SOUTH Abu Dhabi, 56620, United Arab Emirates Saray Spa +971 2 204 4553

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TOP 10

Most Romantic Restaurants In Dubai Seasons change, cold weather comes and goes, rain pours, and the sun shines, but through it all, romance persists. Whether you’re a guy or a girl, a new couple or a duo that’s been through thick and thin, we’ve all had the struggle of finding that right place to have some classy, delicate and delicious wine and dine experience.

If you want to go somewhere fancy for a nice experience, to celebrate a special occasion or just show your significant other that you love, care for, and appreciate them, here’s a list of the most romantic restaurants in Dubai.

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10. OPA

To start the list, we have a nice Greek restaurant. This is perfect for those who love foreign dishes and entertaining activities. Opa gives couples a chance to see traditional Greek dances firsthand. This portal into Greece can make anyone’s weekend fun and memorable.

9. TRESIND

This modern Indian restaurant is a pretty site to visit with your beloved. Enjoy the food of the sub-continent with class and style.

They have an extensive menu that blends well with the ocean blue walls. This award-winning dining experience has innovative food with which you will (staying with the theme) fall in love.

8. AVLI

Visit the heart of DIFC for a romantic evening! Avli by tashas has magnificent aesthetics to help you get lost in the moment. You can take some time to talk to your date over some drinks at their Athenian Bar!

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7. INDOCHINE

With tropical decor, Indochine offers amazing Vietnamese food to keep a smile on both your faces!

Indochine is famous for its friendly staff, who care for your every palatal need. It is a perfect place to have an intimate dinner.

6. EAUZONE

This chic Asian eatery harmoniously floats right next to the beautiful ocean. The romantic spot is accentuated by the Arabian Gulf!

Their seafood is a delicacy. Visitors have been known to eat their hearts out and take a nice walk on the beach, hand in hand, with their partners.

5. COUQLEY

Take a step into a restaurant from the most romantic city in the world, Paris. Couqley French Bistro & Bar has a unique personality that draws lovers into the restaurant and only sends them away with glee and satisfaction. So sip on a few of their cocktails and have the time of your life.

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4. JETTY LOUNGE

This beach spot is an excellent place to hold hands and watch the sunset. This chill lounge lets you take off your sandals and have a night to remember, side by side with the waves. Their international cuisines are accompanied by a beachside bar for you and your significant other to have a more relaxed time.

3. CE LA VI

Ce La Vi is legendary. This restaurant and lounge scratches many itches you may have been having. Get a view of the Dubai skyline while enjoying contemporary food and drinks. Treat your date at this place because that’s what it is, a beautiful, delicious and rejuvenating treat.

2. AURA EVENTS

Aura Events is truly an experience.

Although they are on the more expensive side, it’s well worth it, as they offer customised decor in several places. You can book them to set up a table with customised features for you and your date, and you can get them on rooftops or the sand of the Jumeirah Beach. This can truly enhance any special occasion, whether it be an anniversary or if you want to pop the question.

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1. PIERCHIC

Three words to describe this place would be romantic, award-winning, and waterfront heaven. This Italian restaurant is set in a hotel pier, giving a rare and must-see experience. Pierchic is considered by many as the ultimate Dubai date destination. Neighbouring the Burj Al Arab and floating atop the Arabian Sea, Pierchic is waiting to serve you and your sweetheart.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Hani P Jamal is an Indian journalist who has worked with Out And About Magazine for more than a year. He provides regular voice-overs for the magazine and is a passionate writer and content creator. Hani is also a composer and performer who spends his free time learning about the world.

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Experience the

Best of Maldives at Anantara Kihavah Villas

Kihavah Huravalhi Island, 20215, Maldives

+960 660 1020

kihavahmaldives@anantara.com

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FOR THE CULTURE

AN UNMASKING: THE LINK BETWEEN CULTURE AND MEN

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The zenith of individuals’ character and cultural contributions is their ability to change and impact others to be their best selves.

In the modern era, the lines are slightly blurred because the roles of the genders have changed.

Traditionally, the roles of men were fundamentally centred around being hunters, providers, and the main disciplinarian within the household.

The pre-modern men were cast as perennial machismo, incapable of expressing a softer, more emotional aspect to their being while oozing authority like a tyrannical dictator.

These traits, which were the norm for men of that time, were not to be confused by the impressionable minds of children, seemingly because the next generation needed this “logic” to continue.

Likewise, there is a significant concept at hand to look at with a microscope.

If our grandfathers, even our great fathers, were uncompromising, surely their concept of being manly must have been coming from a time different to theirs. Significantly, there were times in the past when pink—an obvious feminine colour today—was a sign of strong masculinity.

According to an article published

by Puja Bhattacharjee on the CNN platform, titled The Complicated Gender History of Pink, “In fact, pink was even considered to be a masculine colour. In old catalogues and books, pink was the colour for little boys, said Leatrice Eiseman, a colour expert and executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute.” Fast-

forward to today’s era, a man will wear pink at his own discretion and risk.

To concretise the point that culture changes constantly, did you know that high heels were only worn by men in the 10th century and beyond?

According to News 18, an article titled Did you know men were the first to wear high heel shoes... stated that “Men used to wear heels long before women started wearing them.

High-heeled shoes were first worn by Persian soldiers in the 10th century to elevate their feet, giving them stability while shooting their bows and arrows. Since then, men’s heels symbolise high social stature, military power, and fashionable taste.”

These facts, therefore, bring to life the idea that culture changes constantly and, as a society, it is incumbent on us to adapt to fit the times. Surely then, dramatic changes needed to have happened for men’s and women’s roles to be as they were before the 20th and 21st centuries.

Significantly, our postmodernist society seems to have seen a dramatic change in how men and women are viewed and expected to function as parents, providers, influencers, culture agents, and leaders.

For years, women were cast in a constant struggle for equality and liberty; now that this fight is generally accepted as a moot point in modernday life, how has this changed the role of men in the home and other areas? Did this drive for equality by women in the 20th century dovetail the fact that men have become more

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socially inclusive and more emotionally hands-off? Or was there always a stereotype that men were only hardnosed bullies who had no facial muscles primed to help them manage a smile much more than a full-fledged, head falling back laugh? By the naked eye, society has made room for men to have a broader scope to function in society.

The fundamental is that when the needs of society change, so, too, do the behaviour of the players. In this era, the unmasking of these modern men must be viewed in a vacuum, as many pre-modernist schools of thought still pervade our society. However, in a general sense, there is partial role sharing for women and men to enact upon for the furtherance of change in today’s society. How have the needs of society and cultures changed the function of the modern man as a parent, provider, influencer, and leader?

THE MODERN MAN AS A PARENT

Dr Anna Machin, in her research The life of a dad: making of the modern father, stated: “Rather than being the wage earner and disciplinarian of the 1950s, we now see dads taking a much bigger role in caring for and nurturing their children.”

In the unmasking of the modern man, it is significant to pontificate we are a little more self-aware of the fact that nurturing is a dish more nutritious when men are included. Of course, there is nothing to be ashamed of in modern times if men cannot change a tyre or fix a broken pipe; there must, therefore, be no shame in 124

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unmasking the side of you as a father to be able to change a diaper and bake cookies.

In the unmasking of the modern man, equality must not only be the fight of women seeking liberty and equality, but men must seek to be co-parents and not secondary or auxiliary parents. Men must be emotionally open and vulnerable because there is value in this expression and the holistic development of children.

The needs of society have changed; therefore, men should not continue to behave in a way that has no benefit to what our sociocultural needs now demand.

Fathers are very important to a child’s developmental needs. The care these children get, from an emotional standpoint, is only halfway fulfilled if the mothers are the only ones catering to their needs. Of course, men must be ready to be the disciplinarian, but in doing so they must not drown out the roles of the mothers or other females in this aspect.

The modern man, based on the naked eye, is in better control of testosterone levels than any other time in the history of mankind. Let us not fall for the old stereotype that says men are weak if they show their emotional side. Our aim must be set on nurturing holistic beings to make our societies less war-prone or war-torn and more amicable for us all.

THE MODERN MAN AS A PROVIDER

Appreciably, the modern man must be happier with a fulfilled woman at his side. There should be no shame in

sharing the financial load with their partner.

In some quarters, it may seem like the modern man has let go of the reins as being a provider ordained by olden day norms. In a general sense, that is far from the truth, since some modern men value the importance of a liberal woman.

There is a Jamaican saying that “one hand cannot clap”, which is to say when two people come together, life goals are easily and quickly met. In the unmasking of the modern man, they must be more accommodating and willing to work with their partner than working alone to provide the different amenities needed for survival.

It is a pleasant situation for men to work in tandem with their partners because both can get a lot more joy out of the unity and stability when the role of provider is shared.

THE MODERN MAN AS A LEADER

The men of today have seemingly upgraded the way leadership is approached, as the modern way of leadership is not a person who is seen as a “know it all”.

In the unmasking of the modern man, there must be an appreciation of the fact that we are lifelong learners. Men must seek advice and make strong decisions based on the needs of the whole. The modern man knows there are nuggets in building trust within their circle.

In so doing, the modern man must adapt a way to allow others to also become leaders, even if they are not CEO and presidents. It is important to adapt to change because change is fluid and constant.

The modern man knows that there is value in a blended approach to leadership. There is merit in building confidence in others.

Inspirational, quality men must then exhibit that leaders must make others better than they were before they met them. Hence, the

THE MODERN MAN AS AN INFLUENCER

Likewise, men must make room for women to play a significant role in influencing the next generation. Of course, we live in the social media age where likes, pokes, tags, followers, and tweets are too sweet to beat.

In the unmasking of the modern man, their influence must change from those of the 19050s. Again, the needs of the society have changed significantly, hence modern men must preserve the aura of masculinity, but it must be harmonised with the modern concept of society, not with the aggressive, cold, and belligerent ways of old.

Boys will be transformed into men just the same as what purists might deem weakness, but we must allow our boys to be holistically developed to care for the needs of others and not focus on being pugnacious and feral. According to the needs of our times, men must teach children to understand their modern definition of being balanced and wholesome. They might not tick all the boxes at once, but surely modern men should not have all the important lessons, particularly to our boys, left unchecked.

The role of influencers must cater to the needs of the globalised world; hence, men must take responsibility because our world today is centred on equality and liberty, which are accepted as the norm.

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culture of leadership must allow for transparency and growth in the people with whom the modern man works.

Finally, the pinnacle of modern men’s character and cultural contributions is their ability to change and impact others on a transformational level. The modern era has given us different needs to which to cater. Therefore, our roles must continue to convert to satisfy the needs of society. An old approach to the new ways of thinking will only create discord and animosity.

In the unmasking of the modern man, we are now seeing that men are more inclusive and supportive of the emotional development of others, more specifically

children. Men have shifted to make room for women to have a piece of the proverbial pie as providers and influencers without a feeling of jealousy or feeling less like a man.

Men are natural leaders who must aim to transform followers into leaders. The days of hunting alone are over, based on the needs of today’s society; in the future, blue might be synonymous with girls. As it stands, in the unmasking of the modern man, men are gatekeepers of living in a balanced, inclusive, and holistic way. The pie is here for all of us. Men must, therefore, share the responsibility for the benefit of future generations depending on it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JEROME DOUGLAS Jerome Douglas is a new dad, trained teacher, poet and writer from the beautiful island of Jamaica.

His personal philosophy is “If it is for me to be, then it is up to me.” He attended the Catholic College of Mandeville in Jamaica. Additionally, he is a community builder and humanitarian who volunteers his time to help with the academic and social well-being of people in his Central Jamaica community and surrounding areas.

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Al Huwelat Street, Villa No 15 - 4 Al Bateen , Al Falah St - Abu Dhabi, Tel: 02 666 0175

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HOT ART, HOT EARTH In the back alleys of the Internet, a slowly growing revolution is underfoot. The artworld is under siege.

Tokenised art, in the form of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) powered by blockchain technology, are disrupting ageold institutions in the art world.

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A SHORT HISTORY

Blockchain is an all-encompassing technology that is integrating across platforms and hardware all over the world. A blockchain is a data structure that makes it possible to create a digital ledger of data and share it among a network of independent parties.

Usually associated with cryptocurrencies, the technology can have many other applications across different industries.

In the art market, it is being used for different types of transactions, including collection, authentication, sharing ownership of artworks, and tracking the source of artworks.

Artists often appear at the forefront of emerging technologies, and blockchain is no different. In the past few months, tokenised digital art or crypto art has made headlines around the world.

Digital tokens tied to assets (a physical artwork like a painting or sculpture) that can be bought, sold and traded—are enabling artists to more easily than ever profit from their work. An NFT can either be one-of-a-kind, like a reallife painting, or one copy of many, like copies of digital prints. If the artwork is digital, there is no asset attached to it.

At the forefront of this publicity is Mike Winkelmann—the digital artist known as Beeple. Until last October, the most the artist was able to make from one of his digital art prints as NFTs was $100— then things escalated. In October 2020, he pocketed $66,666.60 each for a series of NFTs. He made another killing in December, bringing in a total of $3.5 million for another series. Then, one of a pair of his works sold in October was resold for $6.6 million. The rising interest in trading art online crescendoed, and in May of this year, through a first-of-itskind auction at Christie’s, the artist sold an NFT for $69 million. The buyer got a digital file of a collage of 5,000 images.

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

For emerging artists, especially artists that use digital mediums, this disruption has been somewhat of a respite. They are now able to connect with an entirely new audience of art enthusiasts, thanks to a growing global crypto community.

Artists are also able to create their own opportunities to showcase their work at events and conferences, free of the traditional art world’s bias to newcomers. Traditional art institutions favour physical works of art—especially oil paintings and sculptures— and digital art is often looked down on.

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THE PROBLEM

However, not everyone is celebrating this disruption of the way art is consumed. NFTs sold this way are equally being met with contempt, from not just custodians of traditional art institutions like gallery owners and auction houses but scientists, too. Their argument is that dealing in crypto art is environmentally unethical.

Take the piece, “Everydays: The First 5000 Days” by Beeple—the one that bagged him a jaw-dropping $69-million bid at Christie’s.

The digital registry where that piece of art—the NFT—is stored is responsible for the annual emission of more carbon into the atmosphere than most small countries.

According to Dieter Shirley, chief technology officer of Dapper Labs, the company responsible for several popular blockchain platforms, “The environmental issue with NFTs isn’t the NFTs themselves, but the way the network they are built on is secured.”

Ethereum, the open-source blockchain that hosts NFTs, uses roughly 44.94 terawatt-hours of electrical energy. To put that into perspective, that is comparable to the yearly power consumption of countries like Denmark, New Zealand, Qatar, and Hungary and is responsible for releasing 21.35 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year, comparable to the carbon footprint of Sudan.

In March of this year, ArtStation, an online marketplace for digital artists, cancelled its plans to launch a platform for NFTs within hours as a result of this backlash.

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THE WAY FORWARD

For the most part, blockchain and NFTs are here to stay. The technologies can be applied to many different industries with varying degrees of success and adoption. More and more NFT marketplaces are pledging to become “carbon negative” through carbon offset purchases and improvements in their technology.

For the art market, artists are pushing for more change and sustainable solutions, and, for now, their voices carry a lot of weight.

1. Beeple, “Everydays: The First 5000 Days”. Sold for: $69.3 million Beeple/ Christie’s

About the Author

MOHAMED FARAH

Mohamed Farah, an artist and small business specialist, is a creative, driven and articulate individual with a decade of experience primarily in finance, international trade and development. He paints, illustrates, sketches, designs, and sculpts and is passionate about art, artistic expression, art education, sustainable development, corporate sustainability, and intellectual property affairs.

Mohamed currently serves the underserved small businesses in the UAE, increasing their market share through business development.

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SHELF LIFE In The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle’s message is simple: living in the now is the truest path to happiness and enlightenment. It shows you that every minute you spend worrying about the future or regretting the past is a minute lost because all you have to live in is the present—the now—and gives you actionable strategies to start living every minute as it occurs.

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