Woman This Month - April 2021

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES

April 2021 | Issue 216

FASHION

MAGNIFICENT MODEST FASHION

BEAUTY

INTERVIEW

Our top beauty essentials this month

We discover Khadija Mercer’s young ambition

Skincare that will have you glowing

Mariam Ali Fakhro’s thoughtprovoking art

LIFESTYLE Ramadan decor Family-friendly recipes!

PARENTING Ouiam tells us how to include your kids this Ramadan!

www.womanthismonth.com

Get your favourite partner anytime at www.redhousemarketing.com

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bystander

Inauguration of Pediatric Centre of Excellence

Royal Hospital for Women & Children (RHWC), Riffa, recently launched a primary Pediatric Centre of Excellence making it the first private hospital to introduce a multi-super specialty Pediatric department in the private healthcare sector in Bahrain. The inauguration ceremony was held in the main atrium of the hospital under the patronage of the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) Chief Executive Officer, H.E Dr. Mariam Al Jalahma.

The Pediatric Centre of Excellence currently encompasses Pediatric Gastroenterology, Pediatric Allergy & Immunology, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedics and Pediatric Psychiatry alongside General Pediatrics and Neonatology.

The hospital is keen to further expand the department with the expertise of a Pediatric Cardiologist and more such super-specialties to accomplish its vision to be a healthcare destination in Bahrain for all women and children.

DePARTMENT OF obsTETRICS, GYNECOLOGY AND IVF • High-Risk Pregnancies • Prenatal diagnosis of congenital anomalies • Screening of cancers

Dr. Mariam Alahmedi

• Laser vaginal rejuvenation

Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology

• Laparoscopic gynecology surgeries • Gynaecological surgeries

Dr. Hatem Shawki

• Colposcopy

Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology & infertility

• ovarian disorders • Treatment of Menstrual disorders • Post-Menopausal check-up & management • Abdominal and Reconstructive surgeries • Diagnosis and treatment of infertility

Dr. Sanjeewani

and reproductive problems

Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology

• Counselling Couples • IUI (Intra-Uterine Insemination) • IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) • Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic • ICSI (Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection) • PGD (Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis) • Freezing Sperm, Embryos & Oocytes

Dr. Sarah Faour

800 40000

1775 9999

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology & infertility

April 2021 3

Modest Magnificence

FASHION | trend

Chic modest fashion for the modern woman this Ramadan

The basic concept of modern dressing involves wearing longer and looser clothing, a concept that has been around for centuries. While the concept might seem like there isn’t much room for exploration, it’s quite the contrary with several renowned fashion houses creating memorable looks for the runway year after year and the concept gaining further momentum with each passing day. Modest fashion, in this day and age, has grown extremely exciting and with different shades, textures and cuts, as is evident with the modest fashion brand, Leem, and Haute-Couture kaftan house, Selma Benomar.

Leem’s SS21 collection is punctuated by the ultra-feminine, think floral prints, prairie dresses, soft gradient hues, swishing pleats and sheer fabrics. The season also sees the interjection of bold trends via eyecatching statements including exaggerated shoulders, vibrant pops of solid colour, studded embellishments, ethnic print accents, photographic prints on jersey and the classic yet striking use of monochrome.

Specialising in essential staples with an air of luxe that form the building blocks of any modest wardrobe, Leem's stylish SS21 silhouettes continue to mark the intersection of conservative fit and modern flair, elevating the fashion quotient of its all-inclusive clientele-base, whether they choose to conceal for culture or as a personal preference of style.

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FASHION | trend

Dubai-based designer and Haute-Couture kaftan house founder, Selma Benomar recently launched her Ramadan gown collection which incorporated intricate embellishments and custom illustrated embroidery techniques throughout the signature masterpieces, bringing traditional craftsmanship to modern bespoke gowns. Selma Benomar continues to shed new light on traditional kaftan apparel. Selma incorporates her signature narrative and arabesque aesthetics, beautifully tied together with modern trends, vibrant palettes and meticulous designs.

www.womanthismonth.com

April 2021

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FASHION | celebrities

CELEBRITIES SPOTTED!

Need some fashion inspo? This month’s inspiration comes from the Golden Globes and the stars whimsical looks for their social media.

Addison Rae wears a Patchwork Paisley print puffer jacket paired with black and white Paisley print jeans from ETRO for images that appeared on her Instagram account.

Talented actress, Gal Gadot, wore these beautiful René Caovilla Ellabrita Sandals to the 78th Golden Globe Awards.

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April 2021

Cynthia Erivo, nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for HBO’s The Outsider, donned Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger® Apollo earrings and a selection of Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger® and Tiffany T T1 rings. www.womanthismonth.com

BEAUTY | skincare

REVITALISING SKINCARE 5 Skincare Products for Glowing Skin

INSTANTLY REVIVE YOUR EYES

Instantly wake up tired eyes with Fenty Skin’sFlash Nap Instant Revival Eye GelCream - Rihanna’s secret to looking fresh after frequent late nights. This 2-in-1 eye cream and concealer primer instantly brightens, soothes, and reduces visible puffiness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to give off well-rested vibes anytime, anywhere. The lightweight, nongreasy gel-cream texture quickly absorbs into skin for all-day hydration.Fenty Skin is available at Sephora.

Genetics, weather conditions, nutrition, pollutants and other factors have a way of affecting the appearance of our skin.

We’ve all had our fair share of bad skin days dealing with blemishes, dryness, excess sebum and more. With that being said, all hope is not lost! You absolutely can have great skin with excellent products and a suitable skincare routine.

Here are five products that had us glowing this month.

CLEANSE, EXFOLIATE AND INVIGORATE

FOREO LUNA 3 soft touchpoints guarantees a delicate and effective exfoliation to get rid of dry skin. Use a cleanser along with the LUNA 3 to ensure the skin’s natural moisture balance is maintained.The LUNA 3 brush head reaches deep into the pores with the help of FOREO’s signature T-sonic™ pulsations and gentle silicone touchpoints.

Available in three separate versions for sensitive, normal and combination skin, the LUNA 3 gets rid of all dirt and oil residue on the skin. After cleansing, incorporate the Serum SerumSerum with the back side of LUNA 3 and its app preprogrammed firming massage modes to roll back the hands of time. FOREO is available at Sephora.

SQUEAKY CLEAN!

ALL-DAY HYDRATION

Oilier skin types are also more likely to struggle with dehydration and moisture barrier damage as a result of overlystripping the skin in an attempt to avoid looking shiny.

If you’re in need of shine-free hydration, Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream is just right for you. First launched in 2013, the now alcohol-free formula features works to reduce the appearance of excess sebum on the skin. Fast absorbing for a residue free, freshfeelingfinish, it provides long lasting,essential hydration and shine reduction for combination and oily skin types.

Check out @kiehlsmiddleeast for availability. www.womanthismonth.com

This cleansing Micellar Gel from Spanish Pharmaceutical brand, MartiDerm, thoroughly cleanses the face without drying it out. It leaves skin clean and moisturised and contains prebiotics that protect the skin and improve the natural microflora and Edelweiss which provides hydrating, calming and antioxidant action. This Micellar Gel can be used twice a day to cleanse and remove make up and impurities. MartiDerm products are available at Boots Pharmacy, and online on www.cigalahmedpharm.com.

NATURAL CARE FOR LUSCIOUS LIPS

Your lips will feel very fortunate with Ritual’s Fortune Balms that are formulated to enhance their appearance while nourishing them! The balms are natural and ultra-nourishing tinted lip balms, enriched with Shea Butter and Aloe Vera.

An exclusive blend of rich oils - including olive oil, jojoba oil and coconut oil - helps moisturise the lips, while the antioxidants in grapeseed oil and Vitamin E help smooth and protect against the damaging effects of free radicals. The 100% natural formula moisturises, protects and softens dry and damaged lips, while boosting your look with a hint of colour or nude.

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y c a g e L e h T of Art

PEOPLE | interview

Guest artist at Bahrain’s recent Love & Inspire Art Exhibition, Mariam Fakhro spotlights generations: past and future. She tells Behnaz Sanjana all about it.

O

f the artists that belong to Bahrain’s womb, Mariam Fakhro’s is a celebrated name.

Wielding her paint brush to create captivating canvases sincethe early 80s; her artworks have graced international and local exhibitions and art galleries over four decades.

“Art is my voice and the constant practice that I go back to all the time,” says Mariam.

“It's amazing for me to look back and see how many experiences I have had being an artist, travelling and participating in international shows, and being part of the vibrant and active art community in Bahrain.”

Speaking of which, Bahrain’s art scene sung a paean to the everlasting mother-child bond by way of the ‘Love & Inspire’ Art Exhibition, dedicated to Bahrain Mother’s Day last month.

Organised by Art Fusions Studio Bahrain group of artists in collaboration with Fosbis Design and Marketing, it was momentous for Mariam; she had the opportunity to participate along with her daughter, Farah, and grandchildren, Ali, aged 12 and Nayla, eight.

“I'm so proud of my children and grandchildren, they are my truest artwork,” she says, evidently exhilarated. “I am happy that they share my love for creativity and have found a medium to express their thoughts and feelings through art.”

The love for fine art has drawn the three generations in a tighter union, giving them something special to share. Mariam says: “Farah and I always discuss our work with each other, giving helpful feedback, criticism and honest opinions to keep growing and improving. My grandkids, from a very young age, would wander into my studio and look at what I'm doing and ask questions. It's wonderful to be a role model for them, to see them liking and following the same path. Of course, they have their own unique style and voice, and that's exciting to see.”

This was evident from their exhibits – while Nayla’s ‘Desert Child’ was acrylic on canvas, Ali’s ‘Classic Car’ was mix water-colour on paper. “They are uniquely talented, and I see them both being very artistic in their future studies and careers,” says the doting grandmother. “Ali was very happy to have sold his piece. It inspired them to keep producing work and realise what they are capable of.”

Daughter Farah’s ‘Seated Figure’ is the back of a woman deep in thought, explains Mariam. “It is the story of every human being, but women in particular pause when they are trying to fix something and reflect first rather than rushing into fixing the problem. That is what that moment is.The sister painting is entitled Meditation; a circular abstract depicting a meditative state. They find the solution; they become the solution.”

‘The Yellow Thobe’, a striking portrayal of a Bahraini woman, is the opus of the renowned artist herself. “She's dressed up and burning incense for a very special occasion. I see in her my grandmother in her twenties, doing just that. She passed away in child birth, when my father was quite young. I wanted to depict what I imagined she looked like from the few stories I heard from him,” says Mariam, turning her thoughts to a generation past.

Returning to her present and future, Mariam says: “It was a special opportunity for us to show our work together and we hope to do it again. It's a wonderful bond for me to have with my children.”

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PEOPLE | interview

BRIGHT BEGINNING Khadija Mercer proves that the youth aren’t just the future, but the present too.

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young woman brimming with potential, Khadija Mercer is the quintessential representation of Bahrain’s highly-driven youth. At just 19 years old, Ms. Mercer is not just a university student at the Royal University for Women(RUW), but the Director of CSR and Marketing at Mercer Consultancy and a budding entrepreneur who is currently developing her own business concept.

As an individual, Ms. Mercer’s main aim is to continue learning about the sector that she is involved with and the general economic climate of Bahrain. “The consultancy that I represent focuses on providing counsel with expert advice regarding areas such as Governance, Banking, Strategy and Operations, and Islamic Finance,” she explains, adding that the consultancy’s direct involvement with many of their clients includes advice on public relations.

“We have confidence that our work does ultimately enhance the professional services sector for the Kingdom of Bahrain,” she adds.

Despite being a fresh addition to Bahrain’s workforce, Ms. Mercer has an interesting insight into the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on young women in the Kingdom.

“We see now that the capacity for adaptability is a crucial one that applies to all aspects of life, both in the corporate and the personal.

In retrospect, I have found that the Kingdom’s collective efforts to provide flexibility has given women a better environment to balance multiple priorities,” she says.

“Being in lockdown, especially for many women, was an opportunity to take some time to re-evaluate our current situations, and figure out how to move forward with our lives most effectively.”

Ms. Mercer strongly believes that women in Bahrain have the potential to impact the economy. “Firstly, I have had the pleasure of meeting numerous women that I feel have an existing impact on the economy whether they are CEOs or in other leadership roles,” she says, www.womanthismonth.com

highlighting that women conduct the majority of consumer purchasing. “Our influence in the consumer market cannot be overlooked.

According to Ms. Mercer, women in Bahrain undoubtedly have the potential to do more for the benefit of Bahrain’s economy. “I hope that becomes a motivator for growth and for more women to take up leading positions in the corporate field especially. If there is one sentiment that I could share today it’s that the Kingdom provides so much for female entrepreneurs and I look forward to seeing more women take up these opportunities,” she says.

Time management has proved to be key, when juggling her responsibilities. “I am in my second year at university, pursuing my bachelor’s degree. Alongside that I’ve been working at the business consultancy for about a year now,” she says, adding that she has been developing her business concept in her own time. “I do consider myself a very optimistic individual when it comes to multitasking

various priorities with my personal life.”

“I think I can speak for many women that we have numerous unsaid commitments - the responsibilities to our families as a daughter, a sister or a mother, the time that we promise to our friends too,” she says.

“All of these things have to be kept in mind, but with the right motivation taking those risks reap many benefits for yourself and the people around you.”

Ms. Mercer’s business concept involves designing and showcasing clothing lines for bespoke abayas. “I do hope to open a store and specifically pay more attention to customised luxury pieces,” she says, when asked how she would like to grow her business. “I would also like to find new ways to provide ethicallymade and environmentally-friendly garments and make products such as these more accessible to the consumer market.”

“As a Bahraini woman, I hope that I give back to my country and create a significant impact in some type of way.”

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BEAUTY | news

GO NATURAL WITH GUERLAIN Guerlain has introduced L’Essentiel High Perfection – the first foundation with 96% naturally-derived ingredients and 24 hours of perfect wear. The foundation comes in two finishes: natural glow and high perfection and is available in 30 shades. It leaves skin even and delicately mattified, all while remaining luminous. With a secondskin texture which immediately offers high coverage without a mask-like effect, pores and imperfections are blurred away for a refined skin feel.Each ingredient has been carefully selected to preserve hydration and protect skin from daily external aggressors such as UVA and UVB.

YSL’S DELIGHTFULLY FLORAL LIBRE INTENSE With LIBRE EAU DE PARFUM INTENSE, Yves Saint Laurent Beauty’s iconic scent takes on more depth and mystery with a higher concentration.

The bold gender-bending composition brings the fragrance elements of cool masculinity and smoldering femininity. Customized by Anne Flipo to highlight its flamboyance, Diva Lavender heart from Provence brings out the warmest facets of the essence. Lush Orange Blossom absolute from Morocco, fashioned by Carlos Benaïm, reveals the hidden, burninghot character of the suave white flower.

The fragrance is floral, vanillic and more – the perfect fragrance for spring.

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Ladies, treat yourselves!

We put together our top beauty essentials which we believe will put a spring in your step. You deserve to be taken care of and to treat yourself or get treated to divine skincare, makeup and other products that you’re sure to love.

AN INTENSE PARFUM FROM GIORGIO ARMANI unveils Sì EAU DE PARFUM INTENSE, an ever more intense and sophisticated interpretation of the classic feminine scent, previously introduced in 2013, which encapsulates confidence and energy.The fragrance’s top note is blackcurrant nectar, a signature of the Sì fragrance family, with this alluring note extracted from the core of the fruit. At the fragrance’s heart is Isparta rose, harvested in Isparta - a region of Turkey known as “the city of roses”, and the velvety and liquorous davana. Together, these two notes create a fiercely intense effect. At its base are patchouli and benzoin resin, which both lend an enveloping sensation.The more intense successor of the classic is a chypre oriental fruity fragrance that’s sure to be an excellent addition to your collection of fragrances.

www.womanthismonth.com

BEAUTY | news

THE PERFECT CAT EYE WITH DOLCE&GABBANA Dolce&Gabbana’s Felineyes Waterproof Eyeliner Stylo is the funky new makeup product we all could use right now. It creates a perfect black line like no other with intense colour and effortless application with its precision felt-tip applicator - designed to create perfect lines from thin to bold. The liner’s ink-rich formula offers eight hours of waterproof, smudge-proof and transfer-proof wear.Now, you can enrich the iconic black line by twisting it with pops of playful metallic colour with three new limited edition Shimmery Top Coat Powder Duos. The innovative double-ended pens contain reactive powder inside each cap: signature Iconic Gold at one end, and a choice of Mediterranean Blue, Vivid Emerald or Passionate Dahlia at the other.

TRANSFORM WITH VIKTOR&ROLF’S FLOWERBOMB Sambac jasmine, centifolia rose, cattleya orchid, and ballerina freesia bloom on a base of patchouli in the magical scent by Viktor&Rolf – Flowerbomb. This floral explosion has the power to make everything seem more positive. Magically evocative notes immediately awaken your deepest senses, giving you the impression of living life in your own secret garden, away from reality. An ode to femininity that has the power to transform the negative into the positive, Flowerbomb transcends the traditional traits of a scent and is rather an experience.

ALL-DAY GLAM WITH MILANI COSMETICS Take it to the next level with the Italianinspired Milani’s Gilded Palettes. This assortment of standout colours is sure to get your eyes popping with a mix of 15 high-impact, ultra-blendable shades. With luxe mattes, striking shimmers and lavish metallics, you’ll be able to take your look from day to night with ease. Available in four palettes to suit every skin tone. Milani is available in Debenhams (MOE, City Centre Mirdif & The Dubai Mall), Lifestyle (The Dubai Mall) and online on www.glambeaute.com and www.instashop.com. www.womanthismonth.com

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FASHION | accessories

THE FLIP RING BY NINA RUNSDORF

Driven by the desire to offer something whimsical that could span generations, Runsdorf chose enamel to outline her iconic Flip Ring available in two sizes with matching bands in five bold, impactful colors that breathes new life into the collection.

All That Shimmers !

Jewellery that’s sure to make it onto your wishlist.

We sure love our fair share of exquisite jewellery. Earring, pendants, embellished cuffs and chainsof every length have a way of adding an element of exuberance to every outfit. Here are some of the most stunning jewellery collections that caught our attention this month.

The Charm Capsule Collection by Maria Tash

This new collection features linear diamond designs which utilise versatility and controlled movement to deliver an unexpected and dramatic effect on the ear. This capsule introduces two new bar designs that represent an evolution of the classic Maria Tash Diamond Eternity Ring: Diamond Eternity Bar Charms and Diamond Eternity Bar Threaded Charm Earrings.

The new charms feature double-sided gemstones that are low profile and can be reversed for two distinct aesthetics. The studs can also be flipped for a diamond or gold face. Both the charms and studs move with the wearer and I designed several lengths and gem combinations so clients can layer and create dramatic pairings.

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GARRARD’S WINGS EMBRACE COLLECTION

The Garrard’s Wings Embrace collection presents us with powerful symbols of peace, purity and protection. Each evocative Wings Embrace jewel is accentuated by the addition of precious gems in a range of captivating pastel colors, illuminating each precious curve.Garrard’s much-loved wings Embrace motif comes to rest upon pendants, earrings and rings.

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | accessories

Sandy Leong x Gemfields Sol Collection

Sandy Leong is partnering with world-leading gemstone supplier Gemfields on the release of Sol, a new fine jewelry collection rooted in the brand’s values by featuring responsibly sourced emeralds, 18 karat recycled yellow gold and conflict-free white diamonds. The Sol collection is comprised of 18 original pieces sculpted in Sandy Leong's signature organic silhouettes. Designed and developed under the sun in Amagansett, the Sol collection is aptly named for the surprising fact that most of the light that comes from the sun is a miraculous shade of green, not dissimilar to Gemfields’ vibrant Zambian emeralds. The collection includes rings, earrings, cocktail rings and a sculptural cuff.

Messika’s Unchained Soul Collection with Kate Moss

This set pays tribute to Kate Moss’ relaxed and effortless personality. A mixture of chains, created as sautoirs, earcuffs, rings and bracelets. This set is inspired by Boho and most of all, memories from Kate’s jewelry box.

www.womanthismonth.com

VHERNIER’S COUCHER DE SOLEIL

This innovative jewellery collection is unlike anything else, featuring a strong sense of movement and a combination of classic jewellery materials with less traditional ones, all while adhering to the principles of simplicity and precision that distinguishes the brand.The collection features cuff bracelets and band rings, and sculptural earrings that mirror the curve of the lobes. The unique pieces make up four different variants: rose gold and bronze; white gold and gunmetal bronze; white gold, gunmetal bronze, and white diamonds; rose gold, bronze and brown diamonds.

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LIFESTYLE | home

TIME FOR TRADITION

As we look forward to ushering the Holy Month of Ramadan into our homes and hearts, there cannot be a better time to introspect and give thanks for the year gone by.It's also an ideal time to renovate and revamp our interiors which may have morphed into home-offices and multi-functional spaces for many of us. This Ramadan, let’s seek comfort in convention, while treating ourselves to rich Arabic colours of fuchsia, teal and sapphire interposed with gold accents and alluring Arabesque patterns.

Tiered Treats Juice Dispenser Home Box

Three’s Company Sofa Danube Home

Sweet Scallops Centre table Danube Home

Cheeky Chic Console and mirror Danube Home

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April 2021

www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | home

Get Cushy Cushions Danube Home

Classic Side End Table Home Box

Dining Disposables Paper Plates namshi.com

Enchanting Scents Candle and diffuser THE One

Quintessential Glow Lantern Home Box

Savvy Storage Cabinet THE One

For Quiet Reflections Accent Chairs Home Centre

Dining Delights Tableware Home Centre

Mystical Muse Fragrance Accessories Lifestyle

www.womanthismonth.com

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LIFESTYLE | parenting

HOW TO INCLUDE YOUR CHILD THIS RAMADAN.

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani comes up with innovative ways to get your child into the spirit of Ramadan!

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s mothers, we are the makers of our children’s memories; we are in charge of making every milestone in their lives enjoyable and memorable so that when they reminisce, they can smile fondly with a full heart, and maybe even tell their children how fun those days were.

In a few days, we will be welcoming a very special occasion that we only get a chance to celebrate once a year. Kids and adults anticipate this month with lots of excitement; roads will be embellished with lights, crescents, and stars, signaling the start of the Holy month of Ramadan. An exceptional month when we ditch the routine, enjoy delicacies by night, and fast during the day.

Everything is special in Ramadan, from the exquisite treats that we can only enjoy during those 30 days, to the long nights around the coffee table playing games and drinking tea while listening to stories from friends and family, even TV channels air special programs… only in Ramadan!

Even though children do not fast, we can still include them in everything we do during Ramadan; there are so many ways to make this month extra special for them. To instill the importance of Ramadan within them, we can begin to teach them the basics.

It’s a great idea to use these early years to slowly build their love for the month of Ramadan so when they are eventually able to fast, they will look forward to the month with happiness and understand some of the fundamental principles.

Here are some ideas on how to involve your children this Ramadan and get them in the spirit.

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April 2021

Decorate your home together

Decorations remind everyone who enters your home that this is a special time. It will add sparkles of joy and beauty all around and keep the kids busy for a while. Kids also tend to have what appears to be a photographic memory, so they tend to absorb and retain their surroundings as images, some of which they will cherish forever.

Make it a family matter While socialising is prohibited due to COVID-19, you can still enjoy Ramadan as a family.

Read books about Ramadan together, do art and crafts sessions together, say what you are grateful for daily together, etc. www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | parenting

Make a calendar

Thirty days, thirty good deeds

Such a fun way to build their character and instill in them kindness, generosity, love and care for others.

Write simple tasks that you know your child can do independently, and offer them one task each day of the 30 days of Ramadan. Make it a little more fun by adding a small reward if the child succeeds in achieving the tasks - perhaps candy, some extra time with you, or something he enjoys doing.

Fun activities

Plan for special activities with your child, such as baking star or moon-shaped cookies, making gingerbread mosques, lanterns and stars to decorate the house and windows, writing letters to family and friends, etc.

www.womanthismonth.com

Nothing says “anticipation” better than looking at a calendar and counting days. The best part about Ramadan is that after all the excitement of the 30 days of fasting comes an even bigger excitement: Eid! Having a calendar can make the children more aware of time, making them understand Ramadan and Eid's concepts better.

Let them fast for an hour or so before Iftar This will make them appreciate Iftar more. You can also take the opportunity to explain to them the reason why we fast - so we can become more compassionate to those in need and appreciate all the blessings Allah has gifted us with.

Ramadan Mubarak!

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LIFESTYLE | food

FAMILY FEASTS! Iftar and Suhoor tend to be times of bonding for families during the month of Ramadan. This month, we were happy to feast our eyes on Chef Ahmed Aldeleigan’s delicious eats. The Saudi Arabian banker turned Chef is a member of the World Master Chef’s Society and the founder of Chef Faisal Consultancy; so, needless to say – every bite was scrumptious.

CHICKEN STROGANOFF

Total cooking time: 40 mins - Serves: one

• Butter 30 gm • Onion chopped 10 gm • Garlic chopped 5 gm • Mushroom slice 15 gm • Mix bell pepper (julienne cut) 40 gm • Celery salt ¼ tsp • White pepper ¼ tsp • Cooking cream ½ cup • Coconut cream ¼ cup • Black pepper 1/8 tsp • Grilled chicken (julienne cut) 100 gm

• Basmati rice (soaked in warm water for 10 mins)

• Cardamom whole • Cinnamon whole • Bay leaves whole • Sea Salt • Turmeric powder • Water

For the sauce:

Sauté the garlic, onion, bell peppers and mushroom in 15 gm of butter. Add the grilled chicken (previously seasoned and cooked in a cast iron skillet with butter), celery, salt, white pepper and black pepper, and toss it well. Then, add the cooking cream and coconut cream and cook the mixture for four minutes.

For the rice: Bring water to boil in a pot over medium heat and add soaked rice. Add 10 gm of butter, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves, salt and turmeric powder. Cover the pot and cook for 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water absorbed.This dish is best enjoyed garnished with parsley and friend onions.

100 gm 2 pcs 1 pc 1 pc ¼ tsp ½ tsp 200 ml

We hope you enjoy these recipes as much as we did! For more, visit www.cheffaisalco.com

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April 2021

Decadent Umm Ali

Total cooking time: 25 -Serves: one

• Cooking cream 250 ml • Cardamom powder ¼ tsp • Cinnamon powder 1/8 tsp • Croissant medium 2 pcs • Raisin 5 gm • Pistachio 10 gm • Nutella sauce 50 gm • Dry roses 3 pcs • Sugar 50 gm Pour the cooking cream into a saucepan, and mix with cinnamon, cardamom and sugar.

Heat until hot but not quite boiling, and then pour the mixture into a baking bowl.

Break the croissant into pieces and place half of the portion on the top with 20 gm Nutella in a medium bowl. Add a second layer of croissant with 20 gm Nutella, raisins and pistachios, and then pour the cream mix into the bowl.

Preheat the oven to 200 Celsius. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until puffed and golden brown. Garnish the dish with pistachio, Nutella and dry roses. www.womanthismonth.com

What’s your proudest achievement?

I think I can say my proudest achievement would be me - the person I am today due to the experiences I had in my life so far to become who I am. So, I consider each experience that’s made me live and learn from are my achievements.

In Her Shoes

This month, we got to know a woman who has an exquisite eye for creating stunning aesthetics. Didem Bynum is a creative fashionista who has taken her love for fashion and nurtured it as a stylist. We discovered that Didem’s personality is just as vibrant and inspirational as her wardrobe!

last word

What’s a mantra you live by?

If I’m given this life then I will do my best to enjoy it and do everything in my power to be best version of myself.

What’s one song you just can’t resist at Karaoke?

Oh, I can’t stand to hear my own voice on a microphone! I can only sing in the shower and usually sing Jess Glynne’s Thursday.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

“The only time you should look back at your past should be to learn something from it or to remember happy memories.”

It was advice given to me by my mom.

What is your dream holiday destination?

What are your five fashion essentials?

When you’re into fashion, essentials never end with only five pieces!

I love hats! They are perfect bad hair day savers!

While hiding your stubborn hair that doesn’t want to get in to shape, you can still look stylish.

I’m obsessed with shoes and can’t seem to have enough. Combat boots, heels and sneakers are my jam.

Perfumes! Oh my perfumes! I’m a Gemini so I have a lot of moods and I have a lot of perfumes for all my moods, but my ultimate favourite one would be the Tom Ford Lost Cherry.

Sunglasses are another obsession of mine as it can change your whole mood and your whole look.

Necklaces! I love layering them up! And there’s no way I would go out without wearing at least two!

Cats or dogs?

Give me both!!!!

I love them all! www.womanthismonth.com

Tibet!!!

Didem Bynum

What would your life be incomplete without?

My health!

Name three things you are currently looking forward to.

I look forward to whatever life has planned for me; I love surprises. I look forward to seeing my family back home in Turkey. I look forward to a happier and kinder humanity; I still have hope.

April 2021

19

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Now you’ve seen your regular issue, which we hope you enjoyed, make sure to check out our websites and social media for daily updates of what’s happening across the Kingdom. You can find us at: www.bahrainthismonth.com

Euro Motors

Charles Russell British School Speechlys

Ramee Grand

Nadeen School

G4S Bahrain

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Bahrain Jewellery Centre

AlHaddad Motors

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Hotels & Serviced Residences Royal Bahrain Hospital

Ritz Carlton

Maki

Lanterns

Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa .

Jewellery & Watches

Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Graff) . . . . .

Al-Aujan

Royal Hospital For WC

Mazda

Merce

20, 75 3

BC

Medical & Dental Services

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5 Royal Hospital For Women And Children W.L.L 57

Motoring St Christopher School

Uneeco group

Lulu Hypermarket

Mega Mart

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes Benz) . .

IFC Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38 International Motor Trading Agency (Mazda) 12

Others

Babasons W.L.L (Mega Mart) . . . . . . . .

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP . . . . . . .

G4S Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mercer Consultancy S.P.C . . . . . . . . . . .

Mondelez (Cadbury) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nadeen School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St.Christopher’s School . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The British School of Bahrain . . . . . . . .

UNEECO Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

31 36 33 28 75 27 34 29 37 35

Restaurants & Cafes

Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . . . 17

WEAR A FACE MASK

WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN

CLEANING HANDS WITH ANTISEPTIC

AVOID CONTACT WITH SICK PEOPLE bahrainthismonth

20 April 2021

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