March Women's Day Special Issue

BD 1.500

MARCH 2020 - VOLUME 12, ISSUE 8

we speak your language

VESTIRE WOMEN OF 2020 CELEBRATING SRI LANKAN-BAHRAINI FRIENDSHIP n PHONE HACKING ALERT

Featured COVER STORY #10 Celebrating a woman’s world Entrepreneur and fashion curator Nazia Mustafa of Moda Vestire joins hands with Salaam Bahrain to showcase the achievements of some extraordinary women in Bahrain & highlight the many women’s networking platforms available in the Kingdom.

Magazine Highlights March 2020

SPECIAL FOCUS #48 Sri Lanka-Bahrain Friendship Interview with Ambassador Pradeepa Saram Sri Lankan Ambassador Pradeepa Saram discusses plans to deepen the ties between both countries and celebrates the friendship with a food and culture spotlight.

UP D GUPSH LLYWOO ES ..PLUS BO R U T PARTY PIC

follow and like us on /SalaamBahrain

#52 Turning up the spice meter Sri Lankan cuisine’s skillful use of spices sets it apart from other foods and makes it at once exotic and tasty – but what to buy and how to use? Our handy guide will help.

we speak your language

FASHION #67 Revivalist craft traditions

Research & Content by

SONORITA CHAUHAN

There is a wave of revivalist crafts in the fashion world, from hand-embroidery and chikankari to avant-garde gemstone jewellery. And the best brands are being showcased right here in Bahrain!

TECH TALK #62 Is you phone being hacked?

There are ways to protect your phone from being hacked and you must do so to protect against data and identity theft.

F1 SPEEDOMETER

PARENTING

#5

Encouraging extra-curriculars

Track drama and family fun Packed with the promise of high drama on the track and cool international acts for family fun, this year’s F1 will once again tick all boxes for race-goers.

#64

Getting your child to explore creativity and sporting interests will make them academically brighter. Besides, many US and UK universities look for such extra personality points.

January

the editorial team P.O. Box 50650, Arad, Kingdom of Bahrain Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Licence no : GASB 740

Note from the Chairman The cooler months in the beginning and end of the year are a time when the gardens and farms of Bahrain truly come into their own. We have seen the popularity of the Farmers’ Markets initiative of the agricultural directorate and also the rise of restaurants specializing in traditional Bahraini food (as opposed to the ubiquitous Lebanese menu in Arab eateries). I was delighted when I heard a man at a café speak eloquently about Mahyawa, the Bahraini fish sauce made of salted anchovies hand-pounded with various spices and seeds. It is such an essential part of the Bahraini kitchen and carries the fragrance of childhood memories with it.

But of course, food these days is not just traditional. Today, not just the younger generation but we all need greater variety and are open to tasting the cuisine of other countries too. In any case, as an island nation, Bahrain’s culinary culture is a delicious amalgam of the food ideas of many nations. That is why the BTEA’s Bahrain Food Festival which explored everything from shawarma to masala dosa and cupcakes was such a hit. Besides introducing us to world food trends, it also gives a PR boost to the country’s tourism industry.

The food of different nations is dictated by local produce and requirements. Bahrain has a seafaring tradition which contributes to its seafood menu. In addition, the rice and spices that rode the waves from the subcontinent also find a place in the Bahraini palate. Despite the obsession with convenience foods and the rush to embrace kitchen shortcuts, I am pleased that my daughters’ generation has rediscovered the joys of traditional Bahraini cuisine, thanks to the unlikely channel of Instagram. These days a restaurant, a food preparation, a chef’s acumen – they are all judged, not by the taste or nutrition of the dish but by how well it photographs for social media posts! At the same time, many talented home chefs have found a new professional calling thanks to the shop window of Instagram and that is commendable indeed.

I urge my foodie friends to continue to enjoy food at all times but spare some thought also for the inherent reasons why we eat – for health and energy, not just taste and convenience.

Capt. Mahmood Al Mahmood

Chairman Mahmood Al Mahmood Chief Editor Ahdeya Ahmed Managing Director P.K. Ravi Editor Meera Ravi Contributors • Sonorita Chauhan • Maharaja Features Pvt. Ltd. Motoring Correspondent • Anup Surendran Designer • Mind Storm Media Photography • Jomon • Premjith Narayanan Marketing P.R.M. Marketing Consultancy w.l.l Advertising Sales Contact: +973 3668 4011/ 1772 0797 advts.sb@gmail.com Published by Al Ayam Publishing Promoted by Ajyal Consultations w.l.l Advertising / Editorial / Circulation Enquiries +973 3668 4011 +973 1772 0797 Copyright Reserved.

All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the Publisher and Editor. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the Publisher & Editor cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

F1 INSIDE TRACK

(Photographs used here are of the race of 2019 by our award-winning photographer, Premjith Narayanan)

High-speed drama on the track!

T

Our Motoring Correspondent ANUP SURENDRAN tells us what to expect in the upcoming F1 in Bahrain. he usual theatrics of the pre-season testing for the 2020 Formula One are almost over, and the races are about to begin.

2020 has been overshadowed with the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic and this has put many sporting events into question including certain races on the F1 calendar.

The FIA even though cautious, has approved the Bahrain F1 and diehard fans are now looking forward to the race. This year’s Bahrain Grand Prix is the second of a record 22 rounds on the 2020 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. It will be the first night race of the season and BIC will be joining Formula 1 and national carrier Gulf Air in commemorating their 70th anniversaries.

Bahrain GP organisers have announced that "specific measures" are currently being

put in place for all F1 teams and personnel, the sport's administrators, broadcasters and media attending the event.

Bahrain immigration and health authorities have requested the flight details of all personnel and staff who have been to or transited through, China (including Hong Kong), Iran, Iraq, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Egypt, Lebanon and Thailand in the 14 days before their arrival in Bahrain. Members of the F1 community are expected to be screened for the coronavirus at Manama airport on arrival.

Reliability vs. speed

The 2019 Bahrain F1 was dramatic as expected with the clear favourites Ferrari performing well in qualifications but engine failure led to retirement of Charles Leclerc.

The Bahrain F1 Track is a high-speed circuit favouring the teams with the best and most powerful power units. However,

having said that, 2019 showed us that no matter how powerful the car is, reliability plays an important role in getting that fast car to the finish line!

2020 pre-season testing has been pretty vague with rumours that Ferrari has been “sandbagging”, which is a term used to describe a team which purposely plays down its competitiveness by running a car at lower speeds or engine modes to catch the other teams by surprise on the race day. Mercedes seem to be the team to beat once again showing good pace, but they faced reliability issues as well during testing. No matter what, Mercedes will be the clear favourites to win the season. But Ferrari and Redbull are expected to be strong contenders pushing Mercedes to the limit.

With all these factors in mind, it is difficult to have a clear perspective as to what can happen during the Bahrain F1.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

5

Lewis Hamilton is the driver to beat this year as well. No doubt about that. It will be entertaining to see if the other drivers and teams can catch up to him this year. Come Bahrain GP if Ferrari maintains the straightline pace which it showed last year, they would be serious contenders to win the race.

No doubt this Bahrain F1 we can expect a front row lockout between the three teams of Ferrari, Mercedes and Redbull.

Redbull, of course, is poised to perform very well with their star racer Max Verstappen and their new prodigy Alexander Albon who has shown a lot of promise in the 2019 season. Ferrari on the

other hand must hope for a better performance from their veteran driver Sebastian Vettel whose performance has plummeted over the last few years and his seat is probably in danger, moving towards 2021. Charles Leclerc on the other hand has shown much promise in 2019 especially in the Bahrain GP, until his engine failed.

Daruvala action

Bahrain GP 2020 should be very interesting especially with its emphasis on speed and its subtle mix of high-speed cornering and a very tight first corner after the pit line straight. The area to lookout for most of the action would be Turn 1 especially at the start of the race. All said

Jehan Daruvala

6

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

and done Bahrain GP never fails to impress and it won’t be any different this March.

The weekend’s Formula 1 action will be complemented by three highly competitive support series. These include the returning FIA Formula 2 Championship and the Porsche Sprint Challenge Middle East, plus the FIA Formula 3 Championship, which will be making its Bahrain Grand Prix debut.

Indian motorsports fans can look forward to cheering for upcoming race star Jehan Daruvala who has struck impressive form in the F2 pre-season testing laps. A member of Carlin Motorsport, Daruvala began as a protégé of the Force India F1 team, after being one of three winners of a 'One in a Billion hunt' organized by the team in 2011.

All for fun and fun for all

T

he four-day Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 is planned as a full-on family event, bringing the very best of global motorsport and non-stop family entertainment.

Headlining the off-track entertainment will be the series of fantastic concerts by three of the biggest names in music today.

Kicking off the live performances will be Grammy Award-winning producer, songwriter and DJ Afrojack on the Friday (March 20) night of the race weekend.

Then, on Saturday (March 21), global superstar Khalid and Top 10 DJ and producer Don Diablo will perform in an epic night of music.

Fans are urged not to miss out on this year’s race weekend. Tickets to the Bahrain Grand Prix are selling fast and all those excited to attend are advised to purchase theirs as soon as possible.

All who purchase a Main Grandstand ticket will have a chance to take home a pair of Formula 1 Paddock Club three-day passes worth almost US$10,000 in an exciting new raffle. This is the first time this prestigious prize has ever been offered for the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Interested race-goers have until March 7

to buy their Main Grandstand ticket in order to be a part of the draw.

Those who have already secured their Main Grandstand seats have also already been entered automatically.

The grand prize of two Formula 1 Paddock Club passes will give the winners access to one of the most exclusive locations from where to enjoy this year’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

A four-day Main Grandstand tickets costs BD150 apiece, while a Batelco Grandstand ticket for all four days is BD120. There are also Batelco Grandstand tickets for only Saturday and Sunday priced at BD100 apiece; and also Friday-only tickets at BD60 each. Furthermore, a four-day ticket to the Turn One Grandstand costs BD100; whereas University and Victory Grandstand four-day tickets are BD60 apiece.

Also as a part of the entertainment, BIC is bringing back one of the crowdfavourites from last year’s race, which is

F1 INSIDE TRACK

also literally the biggest attraction at BIC’s F1 Village vending area. The 42-metre high giant Ferris Wheel, with 27 gondolas, will once again tower over the circuit, while there will also be a carousel-like Ghost Rider speed ride to enjoy.

Amongst the loads of other attractions are carnival games, kids’ play areas, stage acts and roaming acts such as renowned street performer Abraham Thill, a life-sized Toy Brigade, a Hot Air Balloons travelling parade, Funky Style Band from Italy, Jam Batucada musical show from Spain, longtime favourites at BIC events Dr. Bubbles and Pop the Balloonman, and so much more.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

7

SALAAM SOCIETY

Indian community R-Day joy Republic Day for the Indian community came crisp and wintry, with the temperature dipping against a bright sun. The flag-hoisting in the morning was ceremonial and patriotic and in the evening, Ambassador Sinha and wife Mamta led the Embassy officials in a glamorous reception for friends of India and community influencers.

8

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Lulu’s India Utsav a hit Each year, Lulu Hypermarket makes an enjoyable song and dance about the Indian Republic Day. This year, Indian Ambassador Alok Kumar Sinha inaugurated the festival which showcased the best of Indian produce and products. Present were Lulu Group Director for Bahrain & Egypt, Juzer Rupawala and top management of the hypermarket as well as community dignitaries.

Lulu turned the spotlight on its wide range of Indian food and non-food items as well as fresh vegetables and fruit, with special offers as well as a dedicated section for fresh winter produce from the State of Gujarat.

Dana Mall’s event space was filled with the sounds and sights of an enthusiastic cultural display of folk and patriotic dances by community members as well as a children’s fashion catwalk and a Brides of India show by members of Saree Speak, an online fashion group.

There was also a well-attended food demo by MasterChef India winner Ripu Daman Handa and a Desserts contest which attracted many home-chefs.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

9

CULTURE

10

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

VESTIRE WOMEN OF 2020

I

am a Global Gulf Woman. Born into an Indian family and raised in the region as an Indian, I married a fellow Gulfie, whose family too had lived in the region for decades. The fact that we both grew up in the Saudi Arabia of the early ‘eighties makes many people think that we must be fairly conservative about women’s roles in our families and in the world.

And I really object to that. Very often, it is not the makers of rules who trap women in the tangled net of their misunderstanding of what it is to be a woman; it is the well-intentioned people who bind us in the silvery glue-lines of their ideas of what women should or can do.

When I founded Vestire, a fashion house, it seemed to many as if I was getting into the same circle of leading women into a fashion blind alley. But as I journey into the beautiful heart of the costumes and craftsmanship that make up our world of fashion, I find that everything is so deeply inter-linked that fashion and grooming, which are seen as the epitome of femininity, are also empowering tools of independence. The clothing that our haute couture designers create are the work of hundreds of skilled craftspeople, many of them women who have helped to revive dying traditions of craftsmanship. Our customers come from different cultural backgrounds and share a delight in all things beautiful which breaks barriers and builds new understanding of different

cultures.

What we need to respect is that each woman interprets fashion according to her own perspective and that choice has to be an individual one that requires no standardization beyond the normal templates of good health, hygiene and convenience.

As working women – and believe me, every woman works, whether she is an entrepreneur or office-goer or homemaker – the world still plays an unequal music for us. We are expected to work twice as hard for less money than men; we are expected to successfully execute the roles of wife and mother as well as homemaker...duties that are not expected of men. That is why, it is so important to celebrate role models and success stories who light up our female universe and form a supportive sisterhood that functions as a safety net for us all.

In our gentle Asian and Arab cultures, family is the centre of our social fabric.

For me too, the support of my husband Adnan and the cheerleading of my children Moaz, Arsalan and Juwaria has helped me scale heights that I did not think possible. At the same time, my independence has taught my children to respect and pay heed to women’s talent and I walk side-by-side with my husband.

This March 2020, Vestire is proud to mark International Day for Women with a heart-to-

heart with women of substance who have made a difference to how we perceive womanhood and all that women can achieve together. They are lawyers, animal rights activists, diplomats, mental health advocates, sportswomen – the whole gamut of role models is represented here.

Happy Women’s Day, dear readers. May the force be with you and guide us all to greater good.

Nazia Mustafa

Nazia Mustafa

CULTURE

M

ariam is a a new breed of Bahraini women who are risk-takers and push boundaries to create space for themselves and their fellow women. After a decade working in the mental health industry, this award-winning psychologist ventured out on her own and founded the Child Foundation Centre while simultaneously setting up Afkarech - Bahrain’s first female network and think-tank to give women a voice, empower their businesses, their entrepreneurial spirit and nurture the future generation of women leaders.

She has been honoured with the ‘Bahrain Women Achiever’s Award 2019’ by the Royal Hospital for Women & Children and an IFAH (International Forum on Advancements in Healthcare) award for her work in the field of mental health. Meanwhile her clinic CFC was voted as one of the top ten start-ups in Bahrain in 2019 and her NGO, Afkarech, was shortlisted for the prestigious Shaikh Issa Bin Ali Al Khalifa Award for the best voluntary project.

12

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Mariam Alammadi What are the biggest trends you see in women's mental health in Bahrain?

As women, we tend to neglect our own health and put our family’s health first. We usually suffer in silence for quite a while before we realise we need help for mental health issues.

Is there a marked difference you have seen in the kind of mental health issues that local and expat women suffer from?

For the majority of cases, it has been the same mental health issues among women. However, there have been cases of psychological trauma resulting in legal implications with divorce cases and custody agreements for example.

Similarly, job sectors have an impact too – for expat women who have come to Bahrain to work for financial reasons leaving their own families and loved ones behind, it can really be a lonely slog and affect their mental health and they can really struggle.

What is the advice you would give to women with mental health issues?

Get therapy. Go get help – you cannot talk yourself out of a physical health condition and you cannot with a mental health issue. Therapy is worth the investment. It is something that will help you in the long run. Avoid temporary material fixes and find out the root cause.

How do we address the stigma that prevents proper management of mental health?

Stigma and discrimination can also worsen an individual’s mental health problems and delay their getting help and treatment and ultimately their

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020

recovery. Research shows that the best way to challenge these stereotypes is through the first-hand contact with people with experience of mental health problems. Encourage the discussion of mental health openly just as you would any physical health issues.

We have tried to address this at my centre with the campaigns we have undertaken. We also have a free chat portal where you can talk to a psychologist for support and guidance.

What draws you to the work that you do?

I am very lucky that the work I do encompasses my two passions – psychology and empowering women.

That is honestly what keeps me motivated and pushes me to be better.

You have to love what you do to be an entrepreneur because although it gives you autonomy it gives you plenty of sleepless nights whether it is studying market trends or new techniques to incorporate into your business and research. I am constantly learning and there is always something innovative in my field to learn about.

Do you think women are uniquely equipped for your line of work?

Yes, I do, although I know great male psychologists. I still believe that empathy comes more easily to the majority of women. This has been shown recently in research studies (UCLA 2019) that when experiencing or watching other people in pain, women’s brains show more empathy.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field Be better than your predecessors – I think that is the message. With the rise

of social media and access to professional work life, I think a lot of the youth think, “I want to do what she is doing." Instead, I want them to think “I can do that and I will find a way to do it better."

Is the business world equipped to handle more women entering this space?

Yes, very definitely. Not only that, business productivity and mental health go hand in hand. Countless studies have shown that when your employees have better mental health they meet targets more efficiently and exhibit better overall performance at the workplace. I have been very mindful to practice what I preach in my business and my centre is the only business in Bahrain that offers paid mental health days to employees as part of their contract.

Do you feel women entrepreneurs are getting more access to finances?

Recent statistics show that from the GCC, Bahrain has the highest number of female CEOs. We are lucky that we benefit from the schemes of development bodies like Tamkeen and business incubators for women such as Riyadat. I do think women in Bahrain are really showing their wonderful skills in business and that they are worth the investment.

I have an all-female workforce currently at my centre so gender wage parity has not been an issue. Similarly, in my field, women tend to have a monopoly – which is something I do not think we should apologise for.

What do you feel is the most important contribution you have made to effect a gendered

WOMEN'S NETWORK

Afkarech difference in your area of work?

To make a gendered difference, I work with my female network and think tank Afkarech. When we started we researched to understand how we can make life better for women of all nationalities living in Bahrain. We have set specific targets that we wish to meet as a result of the study and these are the following; Allow women to define success on their own terms. In the past success was defined for women and we were constantly told we could have it all.

Afkarech promotes women in defining their individuality.

Subsidised and free workshops for women of all nationalities – making access to training easy and cost-effective.

Mentorship Programmes.

Business Platform for women that they can use to promote their businesses and get help from other members who have these skills.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

We need more good mental health professionals who are motivated by helping our community. Recently the psychology department in one of Bahrain’s leading universities closed down. In this scenario, I have been mentoring young Bahraini students studying abroad and helping to encourage them to come back to Bahrain and put these psychological skills to use.

Afkarech is Bahrain’s first Female Network and think tank. It aims to shape the future of women in Bahrain by providing opportunities for development, fostering valuable connections and facilitating member success through academic and career growth. They conduct workshops that empower the personal and professional development of their members. They hold social events for like-minded women to meet and socialise.

Founded in 2017, this organisation now boasts of 144 members of 19 different nationalities.

Initiatives •Benefit Box- This is a food box of nonperishable groceries sent out to a designated family in need, once a month.

•The Women's Care Packages is a first of its kind to help women in shelters in Bahrain. Each box contains - a robe or towel, hair-brush, shampoo, soap/shower gel, toothbrush, sanitary products etc. The box contains everything you may need as a woman if you find yourself without accommodation and in difficult circumstances.

•Woman of the Year 2019 – an annual award, where the members select one woman living in Bahrain who has made an outstanding contribution to society and recognise her efforts.

Intay was Afkarech’s first symposium which brought together women achievers from all walks to life to listen and learn from their stories. Of special note was a panel of young girls talking about their hopes, dreams and what words like women empowerment mean to them.

“ The name AFKARECH literally translates to “your ideas” in the Arabic female pronoun in the Bahraini dialect. The main goal remains the same; to be a voice for women in Bahrain; to be a positive light; and to empower women to be what it is they want to be.”

SALAAM SOCIETY

Membership Membership for Afkarech costs BD 25 annually and there is a subsidised rate of BD 20 for students.

All members must be over 18 years of age at the time of joining Afkarech.

To become a member you can email them at info@afkarech.com

Membership Benefits Short-duration workshops which are completely free of charge Full-day training which is subsidized at a special cost for members At least two social dinner events during the year Members can contribute to the Afkarech Benefit Box which provides one family with groceries a month (non-perishable).

Members of Afkarech are also offered free training through other professional bodies that collaborate with the group.

How can Afkarech help someone who is new to Bahrain?

“Organisations like ours are extremely important in providing a support system to women in our community and helping them find like-minded women,” says Founder-President Mariam Alammadi, “If you are new to Bahrain and struggling to meet people and feel isolated you can join

a group of women and feel comfortable in a safe environment. If you have moved to Bahrain for work or education, this kind of support system can be invaluable.

We are an immensely welcoming and multicultural group and have members from every nationality, religion and culture. For someone new to Bahrain this would be an opportunity to not only meet women from their own background but others as well. It helps one navigate life in Bahrain smoothly.”

Social Media Handles Website: www. Afkarech.com Instagram: @afkarech Facebook: @afkarech Founder and President: Mariam Alammadi

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

15

Mona Radhi

M

ona Abbas Radhi has had a long and exemplary career as a diplomat. Starting as a cub reporter with the Bahrain Tribune in 1997, her shiftto the civil services saw her meteoric rise to the post of one of the first Bahraini women diplomats to be posted to missions abroad. She was the Charge d’Affairs of the Permanent Mission of Bahrain to the UN and is currently serving as the Director, AfroAsian Affairs Directorate, Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the rank of Ambassador. She is also a polyglot and speaks five languages including Spanish, Russian and French.

What draws you to the work that you do?

I have always been passionate about becoming a diplomat and love working in the Foreign Service. This also gives me the opportunity to interact with and learn from prominent Bahraini and foreign diplomats. These experiences give me more reason to continue serving my country as a diplomat and hopefully one day as an Ambassador representing Bahrain in one of the friendly countries abroad.

Given that women are taught to be diplomatic from childhood, are they better equipped for the foreign service?

Women are good communicators, facilitators and natural-born diplomats.

SALAAM SOCIETY

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 They are strong multi-taskers and dedicated to their work, so I feel that a career in the diplomatic service is no more difficult a job than any other.

New team in charge at ILA

A solemn and moving Induction Ceremony was conducted for the new Executive Committee of the Indian Ladies Association, which reaffirmed the values and responsibilities of this, the GCC's oldest expat women's group. Led by Reena Sreedhar as President, the group promises plenty of action and community work for 2020-'21.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

I have been inspired by a quote ‘Luck is when preparation meets opportunity, so always be prepared!’. I like to tell women who want to be a part of government service to continuously upgrade their skills and be prepared, so that when the right opportunity comes, they can be ready for it.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

I was among the first Bahraini women diplomats to have been posted in Bahrain Missions abroad and I hope that I gave a good example for other women to follow the same path and fulfil their dreams of a career in the civil service in Bahrain.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

17

The Indian Ladies Association (ILA) has been a much-admired part of the fabric of life in Bahrain. It is a 64-year old legacy association, founded by the late Leela Jashanmal and a few enterprising ladies in 1956. It is a sisterhood of expat Indian ladies in Bahrain. ILA has always been committed to serving the community. This commitment is best expressed in its motto, ‘Service before Self ’. Wherever and whenever a helping hand is needed, either in Bahrain, or even far from Bahrain’s shores, the members of ILA are in the forefront, volunteering and raising funds.

Whether it is through shows or showcasing the best of India and the world’s cultural heritage, ILA’s impeccable style, efficiency and the number of good causes that it has supported have made this organisation a well-respected edifice in Bahrain’s cultural and social scene.

The ILA runs many charity programmes such as workers’ outreach, visits to hospitals, orphans’ interaction, elderly care etc. Above all, it runs a caring recreation centre for children with special needs called ‘Sneha’ which is also a support system for the parents.

ILA has always championed the rights of the underprivileged and those with special needs and organised several events to raise funds for them. Here is a brief snapshot: Workers Welfare & Community Service events • Free medical camp for 300 workers as

18

Indian Ladies Association

part of Labour Day celebrations at Adhari Park.

• Regular food packet distribution to workers on Labour Day. • Dry ration distribution to worker camps.

• Celebrating festivals with workers – Diwali and Raksha Bandhan being the most prominent.

• Ramadan Iftar party for the elderly at an old age home in Muharraq.

Members meet for monthly meetings with fun and games on the agenda, lectures and the showcasing of their talent and organisational skills for fund-raising. This year, the ILA has revived the popular Youth Wing and members can enroll their kids for a range of fun and informative activities.

How can the ILA help women to make the best of their talents and make new friends?

“Someone who has recently moved to Bahrain could find themselves lost in the crowd despite the fact that Bahrain is a melting pot of various cultures, languages and nationalities and has something to offer everyone. For them as well as any lady wanting to

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

WOMEN'S NETWORK

widen her horizons, the ILA offers a great platform to network, harness talents for a good cause, volunteer and enjoy some great cultural and social activities.” says President Reena Sreedhar. “The Association has a full calendar of member-driven activities and sub-committees such as Health & Beauty, Workers Welfare, Share Your Skills (where guests from the local community are tapped to share insights) etc. This year we plan to launch a new project titled ‘Woman Empowerment’ that

would enlighten women on how to empower themselves by tapping into various opportunities in the current world through knowledge sharing sessions.”

Membership requirements: Indian ladies above the age of 18 can become members, although women of all nationalities are welcome. However, nonIndians do not have voting rights in the selection of the committee.

Membership fees for new members are

BD 25 for new members and BD 20 annually for current members.

To join ILA, the Membership Secretary Komal Talreja can be contacted on 36904938 President: Reena Sreedhar Social media handles: Website: ilabahrain.org Email: ilabahrain@gmail.com Facebook: ilabahrain

Mums in Bahrain Mums in Bahrain, launched in 2009, was the first social networking parenting community in Bahrain which now has over 30,000 members. The community is for parents, both expat and local, and supports everyone to get the most out of family life here in Bahrain.

MIB helps new arrivals in Bahrain to settle in and supports all cultures, religions and traditions.

Initiatives • Mums in Bahrain Facebook page - the central point for all information sharing.

• www.mumsinbahrain.net – a dedicated website that lists information on children’s activities, child-friendly dining, schools and medical establishments, parenting advice, tips on moving to Bahrain etc • Mums in Bahrain Classifieds - a place for buying and selling second-hand goods • Regular events including coffee mornings, play dates, souqs, networking, and much more.

• ‘Ask a Doctor’ service - simply email a qualified MIB doctor and get a confidential response back.

• Mums in Business Bahrain - an affiliated group for mums running small businesses • Making good use of social media and traditional face to face events, Mums in Bahrain acts as a central point for information sharing for parents. If you have a question about living here in Bahrain with children, then you are bound to get the answer from MIB.

Membership Free to join on Facebook and Instagram

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

19

Aysha Mutaywea

A

ysha Mutaywea is an award-winning Bahraini lawyer who runs an allwomen law firm.

She also runs two NGOs - the Bahraini lawyers Pro Bono network and the Feminist Club. The lawyers’ network works alongside the Women’s Crisis Care International and offers free legal aid to women who have been victims of abuse or are in need of legal assistance but have no means to pay for it. She is also actively involved in mentoring young law students from across the GCC who want to become arbitrators and commercial lawyers. She is one of the youngest lawyers to be on the board of the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris and heads the MENA chapter.

What draws you to the work that you do?

I have always been fascinated by social structures and one of the manifestations of these structures is the law. It is a human creation that sets the rules of engagement of society and dictates what is right, what is wrong and how they are determined. The practice of law is mostly a problemsolving exercise where one must equate facts and events that are present in our reality to theoretical legal principles that we have developed to serve society. It is a stimulating, challenging, innovative, logical and

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 creative process. The application of technical and theoretical rules to life is perhaps what draws me to practice law.

Do you think women are uniquely equipped to give in your line of work? , ability to focus, awareness of one’s self and skills, humility, honesty, strong communication skills, dedication, the ability to listen with the intention of understanding rather than responding and emotional intelligence. In my experience and at Mena Chambers Bahrain Law Firm, the female lawyers are able and capable of demonstrating these traits and more.

Strong teamwork and support between them gives them a unique edge over other teams and pushes them to be better. It is inspiring to see women supporting women and working together to better each other.

Is the 21st century workplace equipped to handle more women entering this space? Do you feel labour laws acknowledge the unique requirements of women as the gender that is still expected to bear the burden of the human race’s procreation while understanding that this should not lock out the intellectual gifts that women bring to the growth and progress of a community and a nation?

I think much can and should be done to support women in the workplace. In all industries, we see that senior positions are mainly occupied by men whereas the working positions are

usually dominated by women and as a consequence, this is reflected in the rules of organisations and the common practices of organisations. To change this, more women need to be in management and senior positions. The gender wage gap between men and women is a reality and we must change it.

Although we might have made some progress in empowering women in the workplace, we are not done. We still have many issues to address such as discrimination, harassment and assault, the wage gap, maternity leave and other general support to women in the workplace. We can do better. We must do better.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

Work hard on educating yourself and developing your skills. Try to learn from every experience. Do not expect anything to be easy or comfortable but most of all, be brave and be persistent.

Focus on learning and make sure you help other women in your workspace.

Like most fields, law is male-dominated and it will take dedication and persistence to break through.

What do you feel is the most important contribution you are making towards a gendered difference in your area of work.

I think women must support each other in the workplace.

We have an the all-women team at Mena Chambers Bahrain and that too by

design so I think that is one. The free legal aid that women at the WCCI get from my NGO – Bahraini Lawyers Pro Bono Network is another.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

I really hope things are better for the next generation of women. I believe it is essential to have safe spaces for the exchange of ideas, theories and perspectives and to allow both men and women to examine the gender issues that face our society that is a result of the patriarchal system. A shift in people’s perspectives is the key to creating a change in society. I have started the Feminist Club to do just that.

Hopefully it will contribute to spreading awareness, encourage conversation, alter perspectives and change social norms.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

21

Yalla Banat Yalla Banat is more of a community than a formal organisation. It was created against the historical backdrop of the decision to let Saudi women drive but evolved into a forum for women across the Middle East to network and share success stories with the aim of inspiring the next generation of women achievers.

It came into limelight after a high octane event which created one of the longest ever all-women parade where over 250 women drove around the F1 outer circuit track in 2018. Since then it has been holding events to connect, inspire, and empower women from the region, who are driving change both in and out of the car.

Initiatives • 'Mothers in the driver’s seat' was an exclusive event that hosted 50 attendees including 8 mothers in Bahrain from diverse socio-economic backgrounds who spoke about their experiences.

22

• Youth volunteer program for Yalla Banat participants in partnership with high school and university students • The first-ever female Motorshow live in front of 3,000 people

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Membership It is more like a community so there are no members or membership fees. During events, the public - especially and mainly women - is encouraged to participate and volunteer.

WOMEN'S NETWORK

For someone who has recently moved to Bahrain, how can you help them settle down?

Yalla Bannat is now in the planning phase of something much bigger and would like the people new to Bahrain to think of this as an annual event that celebrates women's achievements. Yalla Bannat ideally would help someone new to Bahrain to discover the power of women in the Middle East and perhaps find a part of themselves as they get involved in activities.

Social Media Handles Website: Yallabanat.me To volunteeer or partner email: info@ yallabanat.me Instagram: @yallabanat_bahrain

Founder & Managing Director: Martyna Al-Qassab

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

23

O

Dr. Sarah Clarke nce upon a time, Dr Sarah Clarke was an electronics engineer designing military radar in the UK. Today she is an author of two children’s books, principal writer for a travel series ‘101 Things to See and Do’, and a director at her management consultancy in Bahrain.

But perhaps she is best known as Baloo’s mummy – her 15-year-old chocolate Labrador rescue dog who is the inspiration behind ‘Baloo’s Buddies’, a programme at the RIA Centre for Children with Special

Needs and the star of her children’s book.

24

What draws you to the work that you do?

As a child I was always the odd one out; the one who wasn’t “hip” enough to be part of the “in crowd”, the child that quietly observed what was going on rather than engaged with the antics of the group, the one who would go left when everyone else went right, who listened to the “wrong” music and, if someone said “You can’t do that, you’re a girl!” her reply was “Why not? Just watch me!”

The older I grew, the more I noticed that others were on the outside looking in – excluded from the group because they were different. Perhaps they were differently-abled, maybe they were

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

too old or too young, some were from another culture or practised a different faith and others just didn’t fit the norm.

As I searched for my path in life from electronic engineering to business management, through academia and on into the the voluntary sector, I noticed that at every turn I found that huge potential was being lost due to difference and with it the possibility to learn from the “outsiders” who didn’t have a voice and to explore different ways of doing things for the greater good. I am an educator at heart and at Baloo’s Buddies we aim to include children of all abilities, to enable every child to reach her or his

full potential and through these

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 initiatives inspire others to do the same; no child should be on the outside looking in.

Do you think women are uniquely equipped to give in your line of work?

Twenty-five years ago I wrote an award-winning essay for the Institute of Management in the UK. We were asked the question “Do women make better managers than men? I wrote that this was the wrong question (and later discovered I was the only one to do so!). In my essay, I argued that we should not be distinguished by our gender and this descriptor then linked to our abilities. I suggested that what was needed were men and women with the right skills, attitude, ability and personality for managerial positions, concluding that some women and some men had the requisite traits and these people would make better managers.

So, are women uniquely equipped to be more inclusive, enabling and inspiring than men? Probably not all of them. Some women and some men with the right skill sets, personality and inherent abilities are better placed to engage with and nurture others, to accept and be inspired by difference.

Through their joint efforts, these men and women will encourage others to work together to bring about change and create a more inclusive society.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

What is my field? I’ve written books

so am I a writer? I’ve rescued, rehabilitated and trained many dogs so am I a dog whisperer? I’ve researched sustainable technology management at postgraduate level, so am I an academic? Maybe I am still an engineer at heart because I love to make things!

I am all these things and none of these things.

Over the years I have accumulated a set of disparate skills and am comfortable in many different spheres.

I see the world as connected and more than the sum of its parts. This is what makes me suited as an advocate for inclusion because the difference is OK for me – I am as comfortable with a pen as a brush or a computer, I can work with an adult, child or animal. I am not scared by difference or to be the lone voice.

I have changed direction so many times during my career that it is a wonder my brain hasn’t exploded! In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, I believe we need to be open to new challenges and new ways of thinking. This means we have to work outside our comfort zone now and again to glimpse the world from a different perspective.

Engage with people from all walks of life – you will be surprised what you learn.

Is the world equipped to handle more women entrepreneurs?

If your idea is sound, well thought out and fills a niche, then theoretically there should be no obstacles to women entrepreneurs – whether the

business world is ready for them is another matter! Increasingly employers are adopting more flexible styles of working that enable men or women with family commitments to fulfil their work responsibilities while fitting in home life.

What do you feel is the most important contribution you are making towards a gendered difference in your area of work.

In all Baloo’s Buddies activities and projects, I focus on skills and abilities, not gender. It does not matter to me if you are a man or a woman. I want to be sure you are capable of the task in hand and if something is preventing you from doing the task to the best of your ability is there some way I can remove that barrier so you can take part more fully? I want to know where your talents lie and how best I can incorporate them into a project.

Diversity of thought and action, in my view, is the only way forward to solve the world’s most complex problems.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

I hope that by demonstrating what a truly inclusive world looks like through the projects I run at Baloo’s Buddies, both genders will begin to realise what it takes to include everyone and the richness we gain from removing barriers to their involvement in all that we do.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

25

WOMEN'S NETWORK

American Women’s Association The American Women’s Association of Bahrain is a vibrant and active non-profit organisation for women of all ages and nationalities resident in Bahrain. Founded in 1974, the group is a social, cultural and charity organization with over 200 members from more than 40 countries.

The association is a great networking platform for women settling into a new expat life in Bahrain with groups for different activities and interests. They raise funds throughout the year for contributions to over 35 non-profit organizations and individuals in Bahrain.

Initiatives 2019-2020 They organised three major fundraisers last year:

• An art show called Visions in October 2019 which showcased artists from Bahrain and beyond, which brought together art from various nationalities and showed how our differences complement each other.

showcase and sell their talents. The AWA also runs a craft group (the Mighty Craft Group, as they are lovingly known!) which works all year long producing items to sell.

• The third fundraiser for the year was the AWA Cherry Tree Trot, held February 1, 2020. It is a fun run normally held at the BIC every two years and involves both challenged and abled-body runners.

These funds are distributed through the year to over 30 charities in Bahrain that the AWA supports.

• In November they held the annual Snowflake Craft Fair. At this annual AWA fair, booths were sold to various artisans to

26

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Membership Membership is open to all women living in Bahrain with a valid CPR card.

Annual membership dues are BD 55 and BD 50 for US Military spouses.

For additional information about membership, you can email the AWA at membership@awabahrain.org or call +973 3888 4924 If you want to see if AWA is a good fit for you before joining, you can attend their events and activities as an AWA guest at guest prices.

Membership benefits There is something for everyone at AWA. If you are interested in Community service you can: • Help raise funds and aid local charities • Volunteer at centres around the island • Help organise the Cherry Tree Trot a race to benefit local charities and an inclusive sports platform for the differently-abled and the able-bodied.

If you are interested in food, art, books, culture or service you will find a dedicated group for you at AWA: • Art group – artists and art lovers come together to plan and attend art-related events.

around the world.

• Crafts – meet every Tuesday to make group and individual items.

• On Island Tours – meets monthly to explore sights and places around Bahrain.

• Photography - meets monthly to discuss photos and go to various locations for photoshoots.

• Quilting - meets twice a month to work on group and individual quilts.

• Women of Taste – meet monthly for a cooking lesson followed by lunch.

How does AWA help someone who is new to Bahrain?

"Everyone that joins AWA brings something to the mix, along with multiple talents.

We have members from many different countries and cultures. AWA not only raises funds to assist charities on the island but helps raise interest and understanding between the many nationalities involved. No one is unaffected. Among our many special interest groups may lie your new best friend that you will meet... along with their expertise that they have learned on the island."

Social Media Handles Website: www.awabahrain.org Facebook: AWA.Bahrain Instagram: @awabahrain Acting President: Elyse McCoskey

• Book club – read and discusses books from SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

27

28

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

May Alhaji

F

or someone who took up running in 2012 and ran her first marathon in 2015, May AlHaji sure has come a long way – she was the first Bahraini woman to win the 1019 Ironman 70.3 in

Dubai in 2019 (GCC Women’s Category). She was also first Bahraini to complete the Boston Marathon (2018). This marketing specialist at Zain Telecom is a seasoned athlete and also plays a key role in promoting talent in sports by serving as a Board Member of the Bahrain Road Runners since 2012 and is the General Secretary of the Bahrain Triathlon Association What draws you to the work that you do?

Chasing dreams and overcoming fear! I still remember standing at Sofitel Bahrain back in May 2012 watching triathletes coming out of the sea then hopping onto their bikes to finally run to the finish line. I was in awe! I wanted to know how it feels to do all that, but I feared the sea and so my journey to overcome my fear started from there. In 2014, 9 months after giving birth to my second child, I overcame my fear and then tried to become a better version of myself. And so, here I am today breaking boundaries and barriers with every race I take on.

How has the world of sports changed to make space for women’s aspirations and talent?

Six years ago, access to facilities was not as easy as today. Women were not as privileged as men, however, today access is becoming a lot easier and more women are joining the sport. Having international events in Bahrain like Ironman 70.3 with the support of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa was a game-changer and then the efforts of the Supreme Council for Women of encouraging women to be active through highlighting these achievements is taking us women forward.

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

Know the reason why you want to do it. Triathlon is fun but it is demanding. It will change you and will make you a better version of yourself, but you must know your reason and the reason should only be you.

Have you seen a shift in the encouragement offered to women in sports in Bahrain over the last several years?

There have always been women interested in outdoor competitive sports such as triathlon, however, the culture was not inviting enough. But all it took was a few Bahraini women, namely Nada Jamsheer, Dana Zubari and myself to take on the sport. In the beginning, however, it was not easy but as we trained and achieved, we got a lot of support from Bahraini sportsmen. That and of course, the support of HH Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa who introduced Bahraini women’s category in Ironman 70.3 events and made it a point to allocate slots for the top 5 women to race in the world championship. And today, the support is increasing with the inclusion and diversity movements in Bahrain led by the Supreme Council for Women in addition to the Ministry of Sports and the Bahrain Olympic Committee.

Do you feel it has been made commercially easy for women to participate in international events?

Yes, over the years it has become easier and slowly but surely commercial support is becoming available.

What more do you feel can be done?

More facilities accessible to everyone such as swimming pools, cycling and run tracks.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

By being the change, I want to see in the world and ensuring that my knowledge is passed to all athletes taking part in the sport.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

29

O

Eskadar Girmay Dubois (Esky) ver ten years ago, Eskadar Girmay Dubois (Esky) would get alerts from a nurse at the Salmaniya Medical Centre whenever there was an Ethiopian patient that needed help. Here she came across a young woman who had breast cancer but had no money to get it treated. Esky succeded in raising around BD 10,000 for her treatment through a fundraising dinner and an appeal in the media. The woman underwent radiation and chemotherapy, was completely cured in 18 months. That was Esky's initiation into community service in Bahrain for her fellow Ethiopians and she has since been recognised for her efforts by being made the Honorary Consul of Ethiopia in Bahrain. Most recently she was the force behind a grand Ethiopian Business and Cultural Week that introduced the people of Bahrain to a very different glimpse of this fascinating land.

Esky is a multi-faceted personality who juggles many different interests and roles. She is an actress, film producer, a businesswoman and a philanthropist among 30

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

other things. She has long been involved with the Migrant Workers Protection Society both as a board member and hands-on volunteer. As a film producer, her debut film in Ethiopian cinema, Tikur Engda (Unexpected Guest) was released in 2014 and also ran in cinema theatres in Bahrain.

She is also a member of the NGO, Mary Joy, in Ethiopia, which sponsors children, elders and other disadvantaged groups through integrated development programmes.

What are the challenges the Ethiopian community faces in Bahrain and in the course of your work what do you come across and how do you help?

Ours is a rich ancient civilisation but there is no point in dwelling in the past. The major misconception that exists about us as a country is that we are all domestic workers or waitresses and waiters – not that these are jobs to be scorned but Ethiopians are capable of even more challenging careers! Since nothing much has been done to change this image, it is harder to find jobs other than those as domestic help because people are not used to seeing us doing other jobs. So we have to fight much harder to prove ourselves in

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 the workplace. We are trying to dispel these misconceptions by increasing the engagement between communities.

We recently had an event Ethiopian Business and Cultural Week where we had brought together several worldrenowned Ethiopian business leaders, philanthropists, artists and chefs to increase business partnership. The event was held under the patronage of HE Dr Shaikha Rana bint Isa Al Khalifa, the first woman undersecretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She is an inspiration to Bahrainis and expats alike.

What draws you to the work that you do?

Since I do many things, let me specify: As a film-maker, it is my love for the power of story telling from my perspective, my passion for the art of film-making and my belief that it will help to change the world which draws me to the art.

As Honorary Consul of Ethiopia in Bahrain and community service volunteer-leader, it is my love for my country. I am a huge believer in John F. Kennedy’s quote “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country” even way before I become the Ethiopian Honorary Consul. My love for Ethiopia has made my work inspiring and easy.

Do you think women are uniquely equipped to give, in your line of work?

Yes I believe so. Once, when returning to a film scene to complete it, I stopped the shoot because I

noticed that the glass the actress had been drinking from in the earlier part of the shooting, no longer had a lipstick mark on it and this would affect the continuity of the scene. I remember the director saying only a woman could have seen this.

I wear many hats in my work as a film-maker – I am producer, actor and director as well as casting director. I have to make sure everything falls in place; then I have to make sure the actors fit the character I created as the film writer; I then have to act as the lead actress. I do believe being a woman gives me the ability to multitask which led me to think women are indeed uniquely equipped for any line of work.

With the community work that we do, we deal with so many vulnerable ladies and they relate better knowing there is a another woman who doesn’t judge but feels their pain and shares the emotions they are going through and who can help them.

How culturally sensitive is Bahrain and how can women bridge the cultural gap where it exists?

As I said earlier, it is unfortunate that we have not been able to represent our cultural diversity in its entirety to the region. So it is assumed that if we are Africans, we are likely to be domestic workers. On my part, I feel that as a woman in a position to represent my country, I have been trying hard to present another face of my country - that we are business people, chefs, artists, fashion designers

and more. This is also the misconception that our recent event was designed to dispel. I believe more such events, more education, more information about our country and even Africa as a whole, will serve to make Bahrain more culturally sensitive.

And for this, we all need to come together, women and men.

How important is cultural and gender diversity in fostering a productive workplace? Are Bahraini workplaces ticking these boxes?

I think Bahrain is a place where cultural and gender diversity is celebrated. For example, I have worked in places here with many nationalities and we have all respected each other.

The places that I have worked in have been very productive and exciting.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

As a film-maker, I learned the film industry is mainly led by men and just like most of the world, they want you to be only beautiful, to be an actress , someone with money to be the producer and to listen to them. I would tell other women who come to this field that you don’t have to be beautiful to be a good actress, don't be apologetic for having an opinion or money and to keep your head high while walking forward to succeed.

As Honorary Consul, I it is such a difficult job that I am eagerly waiting to resign and waiting till my government opens the official general consulate.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

31

This job brings you face to face with the illegal human traffickers and their allies who will not hesitate to hurt you and defame you. It is the job where, beside serving your country and people for free, your own community expects you to fight the non-Ethiopians and be silent when you find them at fault and they expect you to keep quiet while they insult you and defame you. Not just women but also men who do this job need immense patience, focus on why one is doing it and have courage. In addition, women are often more vulnerable to being talked about in an unsavoury manner than men so they should have the confidence to face opposition.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

By paving the way and not stopping her from passing me – I consider every woman’s success as my own. I want to help women who come after me by sharing my experiences, expertise and telling them not to be embarrassed by whatever they have been through and take it as an opportunity for progress.

32

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

WOMEN'S NETWORK

Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society was founded by 16 Bahraini businesswomen in 2000. In these 20 years, it has held 889 events and programmes and has 114 members. The society works to set up seminars, conferences, and workshops for its members. In addition, the society also organises various social activities. Members of the society participate in social, economic, and cultural events in the country. The society also promotes cooperation and coordination with the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Lastly, the society helps to establish and coordinate relationships with similar societies in the GCC, Arab countries and the rest of the world.

Initiatives • A Round-Table Discussion alongside the Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) which discussed topics like the SME procurement program for government tenders among other commercial legal reforms, including intellectual property, that can benefit Bahrain business women owner • Participated in the annual Asian Arab Chamber of Commerce Forum in Hyderabad and the Kingdom of Bahrain on an international platform. Seven members of the society were recognised with awards alongside 954 other business applicants. The members were successful in receiving international recognition because of their efforts in building broadbased business coalitions and creativity.

Membership Any businesswoman (nationality no bar) in Bahrain with a valid CR and over the age of 18 is eligible to be a member.

Applicants should submit their applications to the Secretary of the Board of Directors.

The registration fees are BHD 60, payable once, and an annual fee of BHD 120.

Membership benefits: The society engages in the development and promotion of economic and social relations between businesswomen in Bahrain and strengthening the role of Bahraini women and their contribution to all commercial, economic, investment, and development activities in the country.

President: Ahlam Janahi

Social media handles Website: www.bahrainbusinesswomen.com Email: info@bahrainbusinesswomen.com Facebook: BahrainBusinesswomenSociety Instagram: @bbs_bahrain

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

33

A

Hend Alawadhi n extremely talented and determined woman, Hend is the first female Bahraini aircraft engineer, a reality TV show contestant for a NASA spacewalk programme, an entrepreneur and a social media influencer with a following of 63,000. She is a senior airworthiness inspector in Bahrain civil aviation, a position that never been held before by a woman. She also has her own business - Red Door Salon, a home salon service.

In this part of the world, women are late entrants into the field of aviation. Are they uniquely

34

qualified for the work?

Aviation is not for everyone, I mean both men and women. It is only for those who are extremely passionate about aviation as it is a very tough and demanding career that requires a lot of sacrifices.

and a creative side, its what we make out of these talents that will shape us.

Along with a willingness to learn and work in different fields, we need to be disciplined and to master our time.

With good time management skills, the possibilities are endless.

Your life choices are so diverse - aviation as a career, entrepreuneurial stint in the beauty and grooming business and an Instagram influencer.

What compelled you to embrace such completely different career pathways?

I believe humans are multi-faceted beings who can excel in multiple things based on how much they are willing to invest in it. We all have an intellectual

Who are your role models in shaping your career choices?

My role model is my grandmother Taj Al Zayani, a pioneer in a couple of initiatives that have left a mark until this day. She was part of establishing Al Nahda, the first women’s association in the GCC, in 1955, and co-founder of Bahrain’s first kindergarten. This planted a seed that Bahraini woman are competent in doing anything and if

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 they were able to do that back then, we are limitless in this time and age.

I believe that whatever you put mind to, you can achieve it, and throughout history, Bahraini women have proven that they are pioneers in the region, in multiple fields and that they can take up any challenge and excel in it.

When did your interest in aviation engineering start? Was being a pioneer easy?

It was an inborn passion. My interest was in the airplane models and not in the stuffed toys or girls’ dolls when I was a child. The many travels with my family fostered my passion during the growing up years. I should say that my passion for the aviation industry was born in me and that it grew up with me.

I was very lucky to have the support of Tamkeen to follow my dream and qualify. The title of ‘first Bahraini woman aircraft engineer’ makes me genuinely happy and proud. However, there is a big responsibility associated with this title. When I entered the aviation industry there were many concerns on whether I can co-operate and excel here. Being the first, I needed to prove myself as a role model for future aspirants. All I wanted to prove was that this industry is worth the dedication and hard work we put forward with passion.

As an aviation engineer you are at the frontier of travel and transportation science. What are the chances of a Bahraini woman being chosen to go into outer space within the next 5

years? What should be done to prepare the Kingdom and Bahraini women themselves for this giant leap?

The process has already begun! I was one of 12 Arab participants who was selected for tough training on the same level as NASA’s spacewalk programme.

Even before I heard of this reality TV show by Dubai TV and BBC, I had a passion for learning more about space which I hadn’t shared with anyone as there weren’t any opportunities for it in the region. When they announced the programme on social media, I applied for it, though I didn’t think that I would be selected. However, I worked hard with dedication and got selected among the 12 participants from the region. It was an excellent opportunity to meet people with similar interests and some of them have already done programmes with NASA. Realistically there’s no project in the pipeline within the next 5 years towards outer space in the kingdom of Bahrain, but I assure you that Bahraini women will surely be a part of such a project when it happens.

You have also embraced being an instagram influencer wholeheartedly - how did that journey begin and how much effort does it require? How many followers do you have?

I don’t like doing something in half measure, I prefer being invested in the things I do and give it my 100%. I have always been very particular about how I dress and groom myself and always choose clothes from around the world.

Often, family and friends would ask my

help in their fashion choices too. My journey on social media started off with the Red Line Blog, a page dedicated to my unique clothing collection.

When I graduated as the first Bahraini female aircraft engineer, I thinks news channels found my twin careers of engineer and beauty and fashion blogger unusual so I got a lot of media attention. I used this popularity to channel my message to the world that anybody could reach their dreams.

You will be surprised to know, though, that although I manage my blog and Instagram handles professionally, I make sure that I limit my online work to two hours per day. My followers are at 63,000.

Do you often get asked what an aviation engineer is doing as an instagram influencer and the other way round too?

I have come face to face with this a couple of times and it used to interfere in my line of work mostly, where it used to project a pre-conceived image about me but I like to prove them wrong and do my best beyond their expectations. I think my success in both fields was a statement against the stereotype that women engineers should act like a man or that social media influencers are not competent enough.

Many people see the glamour of being an influencer but not the hard work - there is also a stereotype that exists about women influencers who are into beauty, grooming and

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

35

accessorie etc. People believe that it is an easier career to build influence on Instagram in these spheres for women rather than men. What are some of the challenges you faced while trying to build this career?

Firstly, a huge chunk of the population is interested in fashion and beauty, which is why most influencers are going towards that market segment. And since women are more fashion and grooming-conscious than men – although more men are aware of the need for being well-dressed and groomed, these days – well, that’s why more women’s voices are heard as fashion influencers. Male influencers dominate the health segment or technology, for example.

Yet, I would say that being an influencer is not at all easy. Being an aircraft engineer is easier! That’s because for engineering the rules are set and laid down. But in the world of social media there are no rules to build a personality online, an authentic brand that will resonate with your followers.

It comes down to how much people would be interested in what you have to offer. You learn as you go.

Tell us more about your role as an instagram influencer, the products that you endorse: are they ones that you like personally, are they things you have curated according to your taste or is it about what is trendy or cool at the time?

I made a promise to myself when I started this journey to always stay

36

authentic. That helped me to build my online persona and stay as close to my real-life personality as possible. My followers get to see the genuine side of me. I never endorse something that I don’t use, nor do I take anything that I don’t believe or like. So everything you see is 100% who I am, what I personally prefer and only if I like it, will I endorse it.

Mind you, since this is not my main source of income and I am not dependent on it, I can afford to pick and choose and stick to what is real for me.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

If you don’t love aviation and everything that comes with it, you will barely survive. It needs to be what you really want to do as it is not something that is everyone's cup of tea.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

I feel just that fact that I made it here through passion and hard work should be motivation for young girls to be dream big.

And those who excel will break those barriers and hold

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

positions of power. I believe that just seeing a successful woman in a field you want to pursue should be inspirational for them.

Dipshikha Baruah

A

teacher at The Indian School Bahrain (ISB), Dipshikha Baruah recently became the first Bahraini expat to become an international referee in Taekwondo. She is also the only Assamese to have to achieve this feat. The love for martial arts and Taekwondo is evident from Dipshikha’s long list of accomplishments – ‘Best Fighter’ of Guwhati twice, nine gold medals at the state level, and a national referee in India. She was also a bronze medallist in the Team Bahrain event in 2018.

What draws you to the work that you do?

I have been drawn to martial arts since I was a child. I started with Kung Fu but later moved to Taekwondo and joined the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Guwahati. I was so much in love with the sport that after my graduation I went to study physical education, did my Masters in the same and I am preparing to pursue my PhD in physical education.

Sports make me happy and brings positivity to every aspect of my life. You can say sport runs in my blood and thought and completely encompasses me.

In recent times, women have been making all the right noises in the arena of sports. Tell us about your experience in

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020

Bahrain.

In the three years I have been in Bahrain, I have seen an increase in the number of women being encouraged to take up sports and excel in them at national and international events. I know several talented women in Bahrain who have participated in international events and done extremely well.

The federations are also very supportive and encouraging.

I also want thank my coach Grand Master Abdulla Aldoy, Mohammad Al Amiri and Bahrain Taekwondo Federation who have always supported and encouraged me.

Women have indeed come into their own in different sports. For me every woman is uniquely equipped. One just has to identify one’s own strength and excellence to succeed in your line of work.

How are you making it easier or better for women who may follow a similar career path?

I haven’t felt the gender bias in martial arts and in my experience, I have got the same respect as men. But it is also true that we have ridden the coattails of several inspiring women and

that is the reason why I have been able to reach here. Today, I have been approached by many small girls and parents who are interested in Taekwondo. I think my qualification an international referee will make it easier for other women in Bahrain and India to follow this path.

Meanwhile, I want to tell everyone – especially women - learn martial arts not only for self-defence but as a sport.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

37

Fatema Ebrahim

F

atema is a powerhouse of talent. This young thirty-year-old is vivacious, full of vitality and some might say - baby-faced!

But it would be wise not to take her at face-value as Fatema's resume packs quite the punch. She is setting the pace for women in fintech in Bahrain while also helping them become a part of this new and exciting sector as a board member of the Women in Fintech forum as well as Bahrain's Economic Development board. She has also been named one of Bahrain's most influential women by a popular local magazine twice.

She was appointed to the board of the EDB by HRH the Crown Prince of Bahrain himself, in 2018 and is now also a 38

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

committee member of the Technology Committee of the Bahrain Small and Medium Enterprises Development Society. She is also the CEO & Founder of Andra Public Relations.

What draws you to the work that you do?

I love coming up with campaigns that have an impact. My work involves a lot of strategy, and that's the fun element of it because you can think of how you can connect people, their passions, their ideas and help them communicate that to the world. One brainstorming session with different mindsets fuels everything - you learn something new every day - not just about people and their products, but about yourself as well.

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 The work we do isn't constant and it has been quite an exciting journey. We work with our clients and embed ourselves in their story, rather than just hand them a solution.

Do you think women are uniquely equipped for your line of work?

Women are equipped to be present everywhere in this day and age. We are in a digital future and it's for everyone.

The dynamics and flexibility of our workspaces are not the same anymore, and we are leveraging that. Whether it's in the public relations field, or FinTech - you have to absorb the opportunities and see how you can contribute because you can.

Especially in the FinTech field, we have a ripple effect. More women are sharing their successes, and failures working in these exciting times running their own online startups and that makes more women understand how it feel to have a career in that space.

You have to equip yourself with the mindset, teach yourself and the field will be deconstructed in a way that makes you less scared to enter it One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

Know what you have to offer. Name your unique selling points, and skills and see what gap you can fill. Also, be adaptable - that is the key to success.

You have to understand that your job title wasn't there years ago, and will shift to different roles throughout - be ready for that

Is the business world equipped to handle more women in positions of decision-making and in entrepreneurship?

Women are now starting groups, and initiatives and also regulations to ensure we break the ceiling fully, and we can all take part in that. Tech accelerators, for example AWS, held the ’Technical Essential Course’ workshop last November in partnership with the Women in FinTech Bahrain initiative.

Another example is Womena; a multi-dimensional media company that accelerates equality through creative content and entrepreneurial experiences. They produce creative content focused on female founders, plus they have a tech accelerator for women called Womentum, and the womena®Bossladies Network which is a purpose-driven community of female changemakers.

There are a lot more in emerging markets who are doing a fantastic job.

Women who run their own business are quite open about their experiences, and hold workshops to personally share their challenges and how they overcame them with other women on the same path.

developing countries, the UN is helping women entrepreneurs in those areas by having specialized workshops and schemes as well.

How do you ensure women wage parity both as an employee and an employer? Is the glass ceiling finally broken or does it need more work?

I feel like this is the time for women more than ever. We have always had professional women, but now we have them participating in a more aggressive way because the outlets have opened up. There is always more work to do and we should always do our due diligence to reach those that aren't aware or need that extra push.

What do you feel is the most important contribution you are making towards a gendered difference in your area of work.

We act as Brand Ambassadors through the work that we do. We are a niche PR firm that consult FinTech startups and allow them to get out there and find the right channels to spread their innovations. We are an allwomen team working in this field, and we represent the field by creating success stories in Bahrain and beyond.

Do you feel these women entrepreneurs are getting more access to finances?

There are various VCs and investor groups today that are dedicated to women and actually by women.

Additionally, for women running small businesses in emerging markets in SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

39

WOMEN'S NETWORK

Shamsaha (formerly known as WCCI) Shamsaha, formerly known as Women’s Crisis Care International, offers 24/7 crisis support for victims of abuse, medium and long-term casework coordination as well as community education and outreach.

Shamsaha is currently developing a mobile phone scheduled to launch in the summer of 2020, expanding the reach of the women's empowerment services throughout the entire region making 24/7 crisis care available to millions of women throughout the Middle East for the first time ever.

According to the WHO, violence against women (VAW) is a worldwide phenomenon, affecting approximately 1 in 3 women at some point in their lives.

However, the prevalence rate in the Eastern Mediterranean region, which includes Bahrain, is slightly higher at 37% , indicating that a substantial number of women will experience either domestic or sexual violence (DSV) in their lifetime, reducing their ability to actively participate as full and equal members of society.

40

VAW has far-reaching, negative impact on women, families and entire communities. Trauma-informed research indicates that intimate partner violence (IPV) leads to significant rates of post traumatic stress disorder among victims.

This results in women’s inability to fully participate and contribute to society, and/ or fully care for and support their families and children, further leading to generational problems. Children who witness abuse in the home have a significantly higher likelihood of becoming themselves either a victim or a perpetrator of abuse.

Although Bahrain is a leader in the region in many respects, having been one of the first countries in the Middle East or North Africa (MENA) to outlaw domestic violence in its legislation (07/2015) significant barriers for women remain in achieving full gender equality, in particular as it relates to DSV. Shamsaha works to ensure that mainstream gender issues are addressed in a non-discriminatory manner.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Following the UNODC handbook on justice for victims, Shamsaha has implemented a domestic and sexual violence Women’s Crisis Advocacy response programme, open to all victims of abuse in Bahrain, following their recommended guidelines while adapting them to fit the cultural context of Bahrain.

Shamsaha has 3 primary mandates: 1) Women’s Crisis Advocacy; 2) Long Term Case Work; 3) Education and Awareness.

Operating 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, Shamsaha’s Women’s Crisis Advocacy programme follows five key empowerment ideas to support overall sustainable development for the societies in which it operates: 1) Provide high quality support services (following all international standards) for women victims of abuse, as well as outside referrals such as for counselling, legal support or employment coaching, from the time of victimization and throughout the aftermath 2) Empower the victims to participate in the decision making process; 3) Increase coordination

and networking across all relevant agencies and institutions from both government and the private sector to create community led sustainable solutions 4) Increase outreach to vulnerable groups of victims in need of support such as those who may be illiterate, poor, or isolated in some other manner 5) Maintain awareness to the unique needs of the diverse communities of women living in Bahrain.

Shamsaha is the first and only Arabiclanguage Women’s Crisis Advocacy response programme in the world. Further, Shamsaha is the only Women’s Crisis Advocacy response programme operating in any language in the entire MENA region.

This means that for the first time ever, the gross injustice faced by millions of women in the Middle East is now being mainstreamed into sustainable response mechanisms throughout Bahrain.

Victims of any form of gender-based violence can now call the Shamsaha helpline, in English or in Arabic, (Tel No.: 3844 7588 for English and 66710901 for Arabic support) anytime day or night, holiday or weekend, and they will receive high quality victim-centered emotional and

logistic support to help them reach health and stability for themselves and their families.

The direct target beneficiaries are all women in Bahrain over the age of 13 who may suffer from domestic or sexual violence. Services are guaranteed in English and Arabic, however additionally, among

Shamsaha’s more than 130 certified volunteers there are more than 20 languages spoken, thus nearly always ensuring support in a client’s mother tongue within hours. Further, the indirect beneficiaries of promoting empowered, confident and self-sufficient women are the children, families, and entire communities who depend on them.

Initiatives · One of the primary initiatives is the 24/7 helpline that Shamsaha runs for women in crisis. · It also trains new women's advocate volunteers three times a year · It holds community events, online campaigns, Ghabghas, galas, talks, Workshops etc., to help women in distress empower them.

Social media handles: Website: shamsaha.org Facebook: wcci.advocates Instagram: @Shamsaha_ME

Founder: Mary Justine Todd

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

41

L

Thajba Najeeb ovingly called Thaj, this 39-year-old Pakistani artist, has had 17 exhibitions in Bahrain, Oman, Jordan and her native Pakistan in the last 20 years. When she paints, she becomes her art. You will find her in all her artwork, throwing fierce energy and colours back at you. She calls her work, “a beautiful mess”. This is her visual translation of what she sees in her mind’s eye – colour, life, and energy.

She started painting when she was a teenager but didn't take art seriously till she was in her late twenties. After studying art in Dubai, she started out as an interior designer but soon realised it was not for her. Thajba says 42

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

that she enjoyed "hearing the echo of her voice as a teacher – talking about art, the movements, the artists, brilliant ideas and concepts" and so she joined the Ibn Khuldoon School and is now the head of their Visual Arts department.

Along the way she also co-founded a space to create her own art, a studio called Artology. It was here that she worked on one of her most vibrant series - 'Woman' which was inspired by the many faces of womanhood. What started off as a personal space, Artology then became a place where the young, the old, the eager and the experimental souls could try their hand at art. In this creative space, Thajba found sadness, strength, innocence

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 and seduction for the “Woman” series.

It was not long enough after “Woman” that her “Love affair with Lahore” unfolded on canvas. Inspired

by Dr Ajaz Anwar’s work, Thaj pulled Lahore out of the shadows and coloured the streets and bazaars with love, vibrancy, emotions and liveliness.

Lahore’s hustle and bustle screamed from the splashed colours on the mounted linen.

"I don't like calling myself an artist, I still feel like I am a student of art. My motivation comes from the feeling of peace I feel every time I create a piece or paint a stroke. At that moment the world stops spinning and I feel nothing else exists but me and my colour."

What draws you to the work that you do?

Such a hard question to answer! It starts with the way the sun plays on my cheek and the way the Yasmeen (Jasmine) smells in the morning, this triggers the start of inspiration and is completely sense-oriented. I have been working towards self-awareness over the past few years and it is through poetry that I find passion and the driving force to create pieces of my spirit. My interpretation, my knowledge, is a layered process which allows me to play with all the emotions I feel in that moment. Initially, I took pride in saying, I was doing this in search of my identity but as I have grown older, I've realised that I've always known who I was and just needed to feel comfortable in my own skin. This comfort level, acceptance

of my quirks, flaws and acknowledging what I'm good at, what I do draws me to the work that I do. So I try to paint, I try to teach, I try to inspire, and I love it.

What womanly characteristic do you feel strengthens your work?

As a teacher and as an artist, the more you give, the more knowledge you share, the more it grows. As a teacher, I've met several like-minded creative souls who teach for the love of sharing knowledge whether it is in a school, a studio or an NGO. I spent last winter working with almost 20 women in a small town near Karachi, Pakistan, teaching them the basics to better a skill they already had. It was an amazing feeling. Some of my dearest friends are uniquely equipped to give in our line of work. But they are not all women.

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

Be an enabler, be willing to share the challenges we have had to overcome to be where we are.

Has the art world in Bahrain become more equipped to handle more women?

Do you feel these women artists getting more recognition and opportunities?

Yes, of course, Bahrain has become more equipped to handle women artists. We are getting more recognition in all fields with great platforms which promote and enable creativity and ambition. And it has been my honour

to be a part of this change. It also made me realise that we have to, as some already have, move away from personal recognition and be driven by the desire to put Bahrain on the map through our creativity be it music, arts or performance.

What do you feel is the most important contribution you are making towards a gendered difference in your area of work?

In my area of work- my contribution flips from being a friend, a teacher, an inspiration, a creative soul, a mother, a daughter, a wife, a cousin, a businesswoman, a mentor, an advisor, a human and an artist. At this moment, no matter what hat I wear, the most important contribution I make is lending my support. This support is not just monetary but also enabling through helping to make the connections and find the platforms that enable growth for women of Bahrain.

How are you making it easier or better for women who will come after you?

The women artists of my generation have initiated the conversation, created the channels for communication and made it easier for the women who will follow by creating that space for them.

Also perhaps by showing our strength in our unity and collaboration I hope we have been able to convey that we are stronger when we are together rather than when we are apart.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

43

M

Mubina Maqbool ubina Maqbool’s Instagram feed @meltingmomentss is going to make your sugar cravings go through the roof. This talented master baker has come a long way for someone who isn’t a trained pastry chef. Apart from baking scrumptious cakes and desserts, she conducts baking workshops and has recently published her cookbook which is a culmination of all her successes as well as lessons learnt from failures, coupled with tricks she picked up along the way. A successful home-business owner, she has even baked a cake for a member of Bahrain’s royal family and created a themed delight for Bahrain TV’s Eid show. This Indian mother-of-two is the ideal example of someone who found success by putting in the hard work and following her passion.

How did you get started on the path of professional baking?

I have always loved creativity, writing and experimenting with food and desserts. I am just plain lucky to have found 44

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

a career where I can channel these to become a baker and a cookbook author.

It began when we first came to Bahrain and didn’t know where to go for a guitar-shaped cake for our son’s third birthday. Frustrated, I took up the challenge and designed, baked and decorated the cake myself. The response was stunning and very gratifying and soon friends started requesting personalised cakes.

My going ‘professional’ was almost immediate because when orders started pouring in, I thought I should grab the opportunity to start my own venture – I felt that maybe the universe was trying to tell me something. People like homemade cakes and if they like what they see and eat, there’s really no stopping you from becoming successful as a baker.

How do you see technology as an enabler for ‘mompreneurs’ such as yourself?

Well, for one thing, thanks to technology, I believe I have found a way to ‘open shop’ without too many unnecessary overheads. Food technology improvements has meant better baking and finally, it has helped me to write my own

VESTIRE WOMAN OF 2020 cookbook – today, professional book design and printing is no longer an outof-reach mystery.

Most importantly, because I can promote my work online, I have found my own niche in a ‘gig’ economy where I can use my specialist skill-sets in my own space and time and fit it satisfyingly into my other roles as a wife and mother and – ah, a lover of desserts!

One thing that you would tell other women coming into this field?

Watch your waistline! Putting on weight from tasting the cakes and bakes is an occupational hazard. On a serious note starting a baking venture and sustaining it is not easy, you need to be extremely organised, patient and dedicated.

Success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time to get it right and perfect the art. Baking is a science, one has to work keeping in mind the temperature of the ingredients and oven, the accuracy of measurements & the weather. It is not roses and rainbows always but at the same time it is highly rewarding to watch yourself magically turn basic ingredients into an insanely delicious, artfully decorated cake which people can’t wait to devour.

Also, be prepared to analyse and learn from your failures. I remember one time when I almost missed a deadline when the icing on my unicorn cake, lovingly prepared well ahead of time, slid all over. It was the horror of horrors. I had only an hour left to whip up a batch of fresh frosting, colour it and pipe afresh all over again on the

cake. The whole family got down to help me with it and we made it on time! Since then, I have learned to check for the consistency and also keep a check on the orders the night before or a good few hours before the delivery.

As an entrepreneur, would you say women get their due? After all, many women become their own bosses because they are unhappy with standard workplace discrimination against them.

Women entrepreneurs do earn 28 per cent less than their male counterparts according to research.

Women entrepreneurs aren’t paid as much as men and to sustain one’s business, we have to charge less and work harder than the men in the same industry.

The treatment is as unequal for women entrepreneurs as it is in the world of employment. It is a known fact that customers expect selfemployed women to charge less. Some exceptional women entrepreneurs have risen to the top and there are some with a lot of potential but there are a lot of barriers like balancing work and family, the patriarchal society and people constantly in doubt about women being extraordinary in their fields.

I would say that women entrepreneurs have emerged successful despite all this - the glass ceiling is cracked, but not broken. In the last couple of years, I believe women are entering the professional baking arena because women are multi-taskers by

nature and baking requires minimal investment as a start-up. It seems like the ideal set up for running a business from home for home-makers who are looking to be more enterprising and perhaps, financially rewarded. It’s a different kind of satisfaction when people like your talent and want to pay for it.

How are you making it easier or better for women who want to follow your example?

I have been hosting baking workshops for the community, for beginners as well as seasoned bakers who want to up their baking game. I constantly encourage women who attend my workshops to establish themselves as entrepreneurs. I’m holding extensive workshops where I teach them the science of baking, besides demonstrating the making of decadent cakes.

I want to continue inspiring more women to become entrepreneurs and this was why I decided to venture into writing cookbooks. Very few male entrepreneurs have ventured into the arena of developing recipes and publishing cookbooks.

Every recipe of mine is accompanied by a descriptive picture. It’s generously packed with tips and techniques and simplified steps, which makes baking a breeze for anyone. I think anyone male/female, young/old, beginner/ professional can relate to and use my book with ease.

The feedback and the reviews for my books from everyone who has bought it has been extremely positive.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

45

WOMEN'S NETWORK

Pakistan Women's Association The Pakistani Women’s association was formed in 1998 to foster greater mutual understanding and friendship between the women living in Bahrain, Pakistani, Bahraini women and other nationalities. It promotes charitable causes through various cultural and social events and aims to primarily serve the underprivileged sections of the society and people with special needs. It serves institutions like the Friendship Society for the Blind, Home for Elderly and the Pakistan School among others.

Initiatives 2019 • PWA raised almost BD 10,000 in 2019 by putting on a play call ‘Aik Pal Mein’ which was an adaptation of Anton Chekov’s ‘The Bear’. The money was raised for its Education Scholarship Fund (ESF) which helps to educate deserving children .

• 'Reading Rocks' is an initiative where the PWA created a library for the junior section of the Pakistan School. They transformed a large and empty room into a bright and happy reading space with a generous donation of books from the St Christopher's School, Bahrain School and the the Pakistani community. Every week members and volunteers read to the kids at the school.

Membership Membership is open to women of all nationalities.

The annual fees is BD 20.

For membership queries, you can call Amena Shahrukh Sultan at 39571334 or email: pwabahrain11@gmail.com

How can Does PWA help someone who is new to Bahrain?

PWA is here to support anyone who reaches out to a newbie or someone settled here for years. It is forum where women can get to know one another and serve the community.

Social Media Handles: Facebook: PakistaniWomens-AssociationBahrain Instagram: @pwabahrain11

President: Mehreen Khan Naseem

SALAAM SOCIETY

A taste of Lankan treats Lulu Hypermarket’s ‘Taste of Sri Lanka’ Produce & Food Mart at Dana Mall refreshed shoppers’ memories of the wide range of food products and produce from this incredibly fertile island nation. The festival was organised by the hypermarket as part of its ongoing World Cuisine Food Festival, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka.

The inauguration event also featured a performance of Sri Lankan folk and classical dances by the worldfamous Chana Upuli Performing Arts Foundation and a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Sri Lankan ambassador Ambassador Pradeepa Saram and Sameer Nass, chairman of Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry as well as other VIPs and ambassadors.

Besides the promotions on vegetables, exotic fruits and unique processed foods, there was also a hot food festival with freshly prepared delicacies by Sri Lankan chef Samitha Pathmakumara, a Senior Sous Chef at the Gulf Hotel. He was also be one of the celebrity chefs featured at the Lulu Hypermarket’s food promotion outlet at the BTEA Bahrain Food Festival in Bahrain Bay on February 29.

“LuLu Hypermarket is delighted to present this showcase of abundance from Sri Lanka with the support of the Embassy of Sri Lanka,” said LuLu Group director Juzer Rupawala.

Ambassador Saram thanked Lulu Hypermarket, pointing out that the showcasing of Sri Lankan cuisine and culture was part of the ‘soft power’ focus of the embassy as the community celebrates the 72nd National Day of Sri Lanka and the 28th anniversary of Sri-Lankan-Bahraini diplomatic ties.

Stands at the mall featured tea, flowers, baskets and travel details highlighted by Sri Lankan Airlines.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

47

DIPLOMATIC TIES

Ambassador Pradeepa Saram shares Sri Lankan warmth with Bahrain

P

etite and brisk, with the classic warmth of a Sri Lankan, Ambassador Pradeepa Saram took charge as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Bahrain in August last year. Since then, the embassy has been transformed into a beehive of activity, as she has been setting into motion her ambitious vision for enhanced relations between Bahrain and Sri Lanka.

Ambassador Saram is no stranger to Bahrain since she was part of a highpowered delegation that visited the Kingdom with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his 2014 State visit. Her schedule for 2020 is full of showpiece

48

events that will promote a better understanding of Sri Lanka among the people and residents of Bahrain through culture, trade and tourism.

Ambassador Pradeepa Saram is a member of the Sri Lanka Foreign Service batch of 1998 and currently a Grade I Foreign Service Officer and she was the former Director General, Overseas Assets Management & Development of the Foreign Ministry. Her appointments in the Foreign Ministry in Colombo include Director General/ Overseas Administration Division, Director General/ Middle East Division and the Director General/ Consular Affairs. During her mid-career stint, Ambassador Saram served in the Ministry at different levels such as Deputy

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Director and Director Political Affairs Latin America Division, Consular Affairs and East Asia and Pacific Division.

She has also served in the Board of Directors of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment, member of the Worker’s Welfare Committee of SLBFE, the Foreign Ministry Representative to the Dual Citizenship Committee and also as a Permanent Member of the Project Advisory Committee of National Labour Migration Policy of Sri Lanka.

Ambassador Saram was the first Sri Lankan Consul General in Milan, Italy from 2015 to 2018 and has served in Sri Lanka Missions in the United Arab Emirates, Germany and the United Kingdom.

She is a fellow at Near East South Asia

Centre for Strategic Studies, National Defense University, Washington, DC. Ambassdor Saram represented Sri Lanka at Dubai Business Forum in the year 2000, the 8th Asia Cooperation Dialogue Ministerial Meeting (ACD in 2009 and Senior Officials Meeting at Commonwealth Secretariat 2011 in London. She was the coordinating officer between the Sri Lanka High Commission in London and the Commonwealth Secretariat during Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2013.

Prior to join the Foreign Service she has worked in the Legal Draftsman Department of the Ministry of Justice in Sri Lanka.

Ambassador Saram holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Colombo. She is a past pupil of Gothami Balika Vidyalaya, Colombo.

Salaam Bahrain interviewed the Ambassador about her plans for her tenure in the Kingdom.

Ambassador Pradeepa Saram, welcome to Bahrain. Having served as DG for the Middle East division and also in United Arab Emirates, what are your first impressions of the Kingdom of Bahrain?

Well, generally the region has been always close and familiar to me as I have served in Abu Dhabi in my first Diplomatic assignment nearly two decades ago and also having served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo as the Director General, Middle East and Director General, Consular Affairs, respectively.

My first visit to Bahrain was in 2014 as a member of the Presidential Delegation during former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s State visit to Bahrain. Therefore, I feel somewhat familiar when dealing from the date of my arrival as the Sri Lankan envoy to this beautiful country.

What has the arc of bilateral ties been between Sri Lanka and Bahrain – I believe it is 28 years since formal diplomatic relations were established between both countries?

Sri Lanka and Bahrain enjoy cordial bilateral relations and close cooperation bound by mutual understanding and shared values. The two countries have established the formal diplomatic relations in 1992 but the relations go back to early 1970’s as it was one of the main Gulf destinations identified by Sri Lankan expatriates to domicile. Since, then the cooperation between the two countries have been nurtured in spheres such as trade, tourism, education, sports, culture, labour & more importantly people to people linkages.

Official Visit by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain to Sri Lanka in 2009 and the State Visit paid by the former President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa to the Kingdom of Bahrain in 2014 considered as significant milestones in terms of bilateral relations between our two countries.

increased defence and security cooperation between both countries.

How will this be done and what areas will it cover?

The discussion I had with BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa last November was extremely fruitful and both sides acknowledged the importance of increasing the defence and security cooperation between Sri Lanka and Bahrain. Further, both sides acknowledged the necessity to strengthen the sharing of information and assessments as Sri Lanka and Bahrain are placed in strategically important locations in the global map.

At a meeting with BDF Commander-inChief, you both discussed the need for SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

49

DIPLOMATIC TIES

Sri Lanka being a country that has been a long-standing contributor to UN Peacekeeping since 1960, will be pleased to share its experiences with friendly countries.

Can we get some figures on bilateral trade, community numbers, remuneration figures (in US$) and tourism figures between Bahrain and Sri Lanka?

The trade between Sri Lanka and the Middle East accounted for $ 3.77 billion in 2018, of which total exports from Sri Lanka to the Middle East amounted to $ 1.16 billion and total imports from the Middle East were pegged at $ 2.61 billion.

The total bilateral trade between Bahrain and Sri Lanka in 2018 was US $ 49.25 Mn, which is a 73% growth compared to the previous year. Miscellaneous electronic edible preparations and other equipment can be considered as main Sri Lanka’s export items to Bahrain over the last five years, which accounts more than 50% of the total value of Sri Lanka’s exports to Bahrain in 2016 and 2017. Tea, solid tyres, vegetables, fruits, spices, live fish, virgin coconut oil, are the other major export items to Bahrain from Sri Lanka. Imports from Bahrain include Aluminum & articles, Iron and Steel articles, and Petroleum bitumen.

Sri Lanka also received $ 3.59 billion worth foreign remittances in 2018 from over one million Sri Lankans working in the Middle East, which represented 52.2% of the total remittances the country received during the same period. This included Bahrain as well.

How do you see the growth of tourism between Bahrain and the GCC and Sri Lanka? Has there been a rise in awareness and visitor figures? What are visa requirements?

About 71,636 tourists from the Middle East visited Sri Lanka in 2018 and 2858 of them were from Bahrain.

50

The Sri Lanka tourism industry, having suffered so badly due to unfortunate Easter Sunday attacks that took place in April 2019, has been able to regained to its previous position, as one of the favorites travel destinations in the world. In February 2020 Sri Lanka has been featured as one of the top destinations to travel by Condé Nast Traveler Middle East. Furthermore, Sri Lanka has been ranked in CNN Travel's 20 best places to visit in 2020. Due to convenient flight connectivity between Middle East and Sri Lanka, the country has become one of the most sought travel destinations for Gulf Travelers and young students from Middle Eastern countries are travelling to Sri Lanka for adventure tourism, particularly for water rafting, surfing hiking and trekking.

Since Sri Lanka has an Online Visa System for all GCC nationals without any difficulty they can obtain visas. Apart from that, On Arrival Visa facility also exists for GCC nationals.

What do you plan for your tenure here? What new developments do you envisage between both countries?

I am pleased to say that number of initiatives have taken during the past six months to further elevate already existing bilateral ties to a further level. In this regard, both Governments have agreed to conduct the First Round of Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Bahrain in the third quarter of 2020.

Further, we are negotiating for early finalisation of several new agreements and MoUs between Sri Lanka and Bahrain which have been mutually agreed by both countries. In line with the Embassy’s aggressive Action Plan earmarked for 2020 to promote trade, tourism & cultural spheres between the two countries, a Mega Sri Lankan Cultural Show took place on February 27, 2020 at Bahrain Cultural Hall, coinciding with the 72nd Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka and the 28th Anniversary of the Establishment of

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Diplomatic Relations between Sri Lanka & Bahrain.

For the first time, the Embassy facilitated Sri Lanka’s participation at “Spring of Culture” 2020 festival in collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiques (BACA). Similarly, a Trade Promotion Event titled “Taste of Sri Lanka” “Sri Lankan Produce & Food Mart” was held from February 26-28, 2020, in collaboration with Lulu Hypermarket Dana Mall premises. The Embassy, in close collaboration with Lulu Hypermarket, will participate at “Bahrain Food Festival” on February 29 at Bahrain Bay, showcasing Sri Lankan food and culinary art.

Further, arrangements have been also made to facilitate a Sri Lankan business delegation to Bahrain with the assistance of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) during the latter part of 2020. Also, BCCI has agreed to facilitate a Bahraini business delegation to Colombo to attend a Sri Lanka Investment and Business Conclave organised by the Colombo Chamber of Commerce.

Your CV does not give us any glimpse of your personal life or interests.

Would you please throw light on that?

Your family, your interests, your achievements which you consider most important.

I’m married and have two sons. I like to spend most of my leisure time mostly with my family and travelling. I am a keen listener of classical Sri Lankan music too.

I was the first Sri Lankan Consul General in Milan after establishing Sri Lanka’s first Consulate General in Italy. In my career I treasure all my overseas postings starting with UAE, Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy which encompassed different experiences to my profession.

BUSINESS SCENE

Able Freight hoists Lankan success flag

T

The company MD Azdi Mansoor tells us why Bahrain is a great place to do business he Sri Lankan business community in Bahrain is a compact one and has made excellent use of Bahrain’s business-friendly commercial environment to build strong entrepreneurial links with the Kingdom. One such business is Able Freight Express, established in 2002.

Headed by Managing Director Azdi Mansoor, the company deals in the logistics support so crucial to the expat life, whether industrial packing, domestic or international moving or freight movement by land, air or sea. The company also offers customs clearance and warehousing facilities.

“I have been a Bahrain resident for 20 years and I think the island life here is well-suited for us Sri Lankans because the basic style of living is so similar,” says Mansoor, “What distinguishes Bahrain is that it is indeed a cosmopolitan country and the ease of doing business means that we can be productive and prosper. Over the years, we have added a reliable and reputable network of international partners to our operations so that we can offer the same quality and service to customers who send their goods with us anywhere in the world.

When it comes to sea freight, for example, through our extensive network of over 260+ independent freight forwarders in 110 Countries we can offer a complete

door to door service to and from anywhere in the world via sea freight.”

He added “We are agents for Laksiri Seva, World Freight Network, Five Star Freight Systems and SPAN etc. We are members of FLATA (the Federation of Freight Forwarders Association).”

realize a long-held dream of opening a restaurant that will offer discerning Bahrain diners a taste of international and Sri Lankan cuisine. Currently being readied in Budaiya, the Zaynah Restaurant has been meticulously designed to offer a lovely ambience and the international kitchen team will represent the best of Western and Sri Lankan cuisine in the carefully

New ventures

curated multi-cuisine menu.

“I love good food and I know diners today thrive on variety as well as novelty. I also want to showcase the best of Sri Lanka’s exotic and gastronomic cuisine – so our restaurant will offer a completely rounded dining experience for every taste.”

That’s indeed great news and one that our tastebuds are waiting to experience.

The Able Group of Companies includes Able Freight Xpress, Able Packages, JHM – Industrial Packaging Services for the oil and gas sector in KSA and Able Freight Private Ltd. In Sri Lanka.

Buoyed by the success of Able Freight Xpress and his knowledge of the FMCG industry in which he has considerable expertise, Mansoor is now preparing to

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

51

CUISINE

Turning up the spice meter

Sri Lankan cuisine’s skillful use of spices sets it apart from other foods and makes it at once exotic and tasty, says NATALIA FERDINAND Lying like an emerald locket on the cheek of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka’s ethnic diversity and its location on the major historical trade routes have contributed to its culinary variety. As one of the biggest strategically located island nations in the Indian ocean, Sri Lanka was visited by many spice and gem traders from biblical times. There were invasions by the Cholas and Pandyas of South India, as well as more recently, the Portuguese, Dutch and English. Then there were the Malays, who were brought to Sri Lanka by the British, and Arab descendants who settled down in the country. Each brought different kinds of cuisines, all of which have enriched Sri lankan food culture.

Yet, what many may not know is that there are

52

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

regional variations aplenty within Lankan kitchens.

A crab dish in northern Jaffna will be cooked in an entirely different way from one in Galle in the SouthWest.

Chilli vs. pepper

Sri Lanka is a land of spices, with all the food in the teardrop island laden with rich flavors. Sure, all the spices used here are not native to Sri Lanka, but chefs and home cooks have incorporated them into their cooking to such an extent that they might as well be! Curries, short eats, sambols, and sweets all have a mix of seasonings that will tickle the senses. You’ll also find spices in Christmas cake and even in the tea.

That’s not to say Sri Lankan food doesn’t use chillies.

Official data puts the per capita consumption of dried chillies at 2.84kg per year, but the country trails Turkey, China, Mexico, Indonesia and the US, IndexBox market research shows.

It does top the world charts in the amount of black pepper consumed — but that’s an entirely different hot topic. In fact, the chilli is often served as part of an accompanying sambol, or dry chutney, which allows diners to customise the meal to their own personal preferences.

Rohan Fernando, author of an upcoming book of Ayurvedic vegan and vegetarian recipes, says that what people don’t realise is just how well his country’s food can be customised to different palates.

“Although Sri Lankan food is a mix of herbs and spices, it can always be catered to one’s palate and spice tolerance,” he says. “There are [also] multiple flavourful coconut milk-based curries and dishes that are not spicy at all, such as potato curry and dal.”

Of all the spices used in Sri Lankan cuisine, the most famous one is Ceylon cinnamon. Also called true cinnamon, this is the crop that put Sri Lanka on the spice map. Apart from cinnamon, Sri Lanka produces all sorts of other spices, some of which are also used for natural Ayurvedic remedies.

Here are the most used spices grown on the island, and when visiting Sri Lanka, don’t forget to pick some up to take home as a souvenir.

Real Cinnamon

There are two kinds of cinnamon: Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. In the spice world, people often say that the Ceylon variety is the “real” one; however, in reality, both are from the same family of trees. Nevertheless, Ceylon cinnamon has a sweeter, fresher taste than the Cassia one, and if you are cooking Sri Lankan food, don’t ever replace one for the other. Sri Lanka is the number one producer and exporter of Ceylon cinnamon.

Real Ceylon cinnamon is crumbly and easy to break apart by hand

Black Pepper

Black pepper is the second most produced spice in Sri Lanka after Ceylon cinnamon and is also exported around the world. Some people say that black pepper originated in India, while others believe it is originally from Sri Lanka, with pepper plants dotting the jungles of the country. Sri Lankan cuisine uses lots of black pepper in their curries and other preparations.

Sometimes rice is even flavored with a couple of unground black pepper seeds.

Cardamom

The “Queen of Spices” is the nickname given to cardamom—a spice used in both savory and sweet dishes. While it’s native to India, Sri Lanka is one of the main suppliers of both the white and green varieties. Cardamom is often found in curries, sambols, and also in spiced tea and is one of the most sought-after and expensive spices. The end product used in cooking is the dried seed pods.

Green cardamom is used in all sorts of spicy food and also in sweets and spiced tea

Cloves

While cloves are not native to Sri Lanka or India, they do grow in the area with good results. Sri Lankans add cloves to rice as a flavoring agent, adding a couple of sticks to the cooking water. For curries, cloves are roasted in ghee. Clove oil is a natural antibiotic.

Nutmeg and Mace

Nutmeg and mace are native to Indonesia, but just like cloves, nutmeg trees grow quite well in Sri Lanka.

Both nutmeg and mace add flavor to all sorts of food, from curry to cakes and other sweets. Mace is the stringy outer coating of the nutmeg seed and tastes like a mix of cinnamon and pepper with a bit of nutmeg too. Along with cloves, nutmeg is a popular spice around the world.

Nutmeg is the seed at the very center, and the red covering is the mace – both are dried before using as a spice

Turmeric

Turmeric has been gaining a lot of recognition lately as a medicinal plant. Used mostly in face masks and SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

53

CUISINE hair treatments, the powder of this root is also used in Green chilli peppers are used to add a fresh taste to the curries and turmeric milk. It gives dishes a wonderful spiciness of the dish and are sometimes added at the end of the cooking process. yellow color and has plenty of medicinal qualities.

Curry leaves

Curry leaves come from a tree native to all of Asia, and they’re used in most curries in Sri Lanka. Not everyone in the world uses whole curry leaves to flavor their curries, but in Sri Lanka, you will see them everywhere. They are often inside pies, short eats and sometimes in rice too, but it is always in “vade.”

Chilli Peppers

This is the ultimate spice for any Sri Lankan dish. The dried red varieties are used whole, or they are turned into chilli powder, of which there are different grades: burnt and unburnt. Each one has a distinct flavor.

Official data puts the per capita consumption of dried chillies in Sri Lanka at 2.84kg per year

NEW IN TOWN

Authentic taste notes at Basanti Restaurant & Sweets

It was a dream come true for friends and partners Nalin Beri and Mohammed Nadeem when they opened a cosy eatery in a busy Gudaibiya street. Called Basanti Restaurant & Sweets, it is located near Carrefour and is just behind a busy social area where Karnataka Social Club, the upcoming Kannada Sangha and Maharashtra Cultural Society are located.

The ribbon-cutting honours were carried out by the ever-smiling Shaikha Noora Al Khalifa who was warmly welcomed and received by Basanti partners and guests to the sound of dhol drumbeats and a shower of rose petals and flower garlands.

Basanti is already carving a niche among foodies for its awesome Biryanis (Chicken, Mutton and Veg), the highly sought after and mouth watering Kastori Kebabs and Shaslikh, Tikkas, Chicken Makhani, Mutton Roghanjosh, Shawarmas etc.

Vegetarians have not been left out either and the restaurant serves up aromatic dal tadka, a wide range of vegetable curries and melt-inthe-mouth paneer items. Keeping in mind strict dietary rules of the community, Basanti’s kitchen team also serves wonderful Jain-style food which is strictly veggie to the extent that even root vegetables are not used.

54

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

JAFFNA ODIYAL KOOL (SPICY SEAFOOD SOUP) This detailed recipe is from the popular cookery blog run by Rocy https://www.topsrilankanrecipe.com/ INGREDIENTS

1.5 kg fish*

(* Use some big oily fish to this recipe. Small fish won’t give a good taste. Don’t discard the head part of the fish. The juicy part in the head gives an extra taste to this Jaffna odiyal kool. Also, don’t reduce the amount of fish because fish is the main ingredient in this recipe. The fish dissolve in the water and the fish bits give an amazing taste at the end of this recipe.)

250 gms cuttlefish/squid - 250g

250 gms prawn

100 gms brown rice

500 gms crab

75 gms red chili flakes

100 gms long beans

1 tsp turmeric powder

300 gms tapioca

Salt to taste

200 gms jackfruit seeds

600 ml thin tamarind juice

75 gms palmyra tuber flour/Odiyal flour (available in specialty Sri Lankan stores)

2 litres water

PREPARATION 1. Wash the brown rice thoroughly., boil till soft and set aside.

2. Clean, rinse, and cut the fish, cuttlefish/squid, prawns/shrimps, and crabs.

3. Rinse and cut the jackfruit seeds into three parts each; the long beans into 1 inch pieces and the tapioca into bite-size chunks (after skinning it).

4. Take a quarter lemon-size tamarind piece and soak in the required (warm) water. After 10 minutes, mash well with fingers and then strain the resulting juice into a container and set aside.

5. Grind the dried red chillies to flakes.

6. Wash the odiyal flour 2 or 3 times thoroughly. This step can be done just before adding the flour to the soup.

7. Once you have done with all the preparations, place all the fish in a layer in the bottom of alarge, deep and thick-bottomed cooking pot.

8. Now add turmeric powder and salt and all the water and mix well.

9. Cook covered, over a high flame for 15 minutes.

10. Take off the lid and mix everything well. Add the slices of tapioca and jackfruit seeds. Mix and cook covered again over high flame for another 15 minutes.

11. Take off the lid and mash everything a little using a spoon - especially the fish pieces. Cook uncovered over a high flame for 5 minutes.

12. Now add long beans pieces and cook uncovered over high flame for 2 minutes.

13. Add the red chilli flakes.

14. Add the thin tamarind juice.

15. Add the washed odiyal flour. Once you add odiyal flour, you should mix everything as soon as possible. If not, the soup will get lumpy.

16. Finally, add the boiled brown rice.

17. Mix everything well and cook uncovered over medium flame for 5 minutes.

18. Taste and adjust salt, red chili flakes, tamarind juice if needed.

19. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious spicy Jaffna odiyal kool or seafood soup.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

55

PINEAPPLE & COCONUT CURRY INGREDIENTS

2 small pineapples (about 1.4 kg)

Half a red onion, sliced

10 curry leaves

10cm piece pandanus (screwpine leaves)

1 clove garlic, chopped

1 tsp brown mustard seeds

1 tsp Indian chilli powder

Quarter tsp. turmeric powder

1 tsp Thuna Paha (roasted curry powder)

1 cup coconut milk

Half cup coconut cream

sea salt to taste

PREPARATION 1. Cut the peel off the pineapple, remove the thorn and cut into 2 cm cubes. In a bowl, mix the onion, pineapple, curry leaves, pandan and garlic and set aside.

2. In a heavy pan, dry roast the mustard seeds over medium heat until fragrant. Grind them into a powder. Set aside.

3. In a bigger wok, over medium heat, add the chilli powder and roast until it darkens a little in colour, then quickly add the pineapple and onion mixture. Mix, and add the turmeric and the masala powder (see recipe) and mix again.

4. Add the coconut milk. Mix, and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes.

5. Add the coconut cream and mustard seed powder, and simmer again for 3 minutes, stirring continuously so the coconut cream does not split.

6. Taste, and season as needed.

7. Serve with other curries and rice.

SINGALESE THUNA PAHA Sri Lankan 5-Spice Curry Powder INGREDIENTS *Adjust amounts to your preferences

50g coriander seeds

10g – 25g cumin seeds

PREPARATION

10g – 25g fennel seeds 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces A sprig curry leaves 1*6cm piece of pandanus

1. Dry the curry leaves and pandanus in a warm to hot pan over moderate heat, or leave in the sun to warm and dry for a day or two.

2. Grind all ingredients to make a powder.

3. Store in an airtight container either in a cool, dry space or in the bottom rack of your refrigerator.

56

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

BIBIKKAN

CUISINE

The queen of Christmas coconut treats is undoubtedly bibikkan, a rich, dark moist cake made of shredded coconut, jaggery and semolina that drives the sweet tooth wild. Its lavish assortment of ingredients include grated jaggery or treacle, melted in a little water, heated, then cooled and mixed into a batter with roasted semolina. Chopped dates, winter melon and ginger preserve, candied peel and cashew nuts are added to it, along with crushed fennel, cardamom, cloves and cinnamon and a dash of salt. A beaten egg is folded in before the mixture is popped into the oven.

Bibikkan is believed to be of Portuguese origin dating to the 16th century. Bibikkan is infrequent, only making an appearance on festive and religious occasions like New Year’s night and Sinhala and Tamil New Year. And of course, Christmas. The long wait for this delicious indulgence makes it all the more desirable.

INGREDIENTS

225 g jaggery

225 g coconut

50 g semolina

100 g dates

½ teaspoon fennel

1 cardamom

50 g winter melon preserves

25 g ginger preserves

25 g candied peel

50 g cashew nuts

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 egg

PREPARATION 1. Grate the jaggery and coconut, dry roast the semolina and stone and chop the dates.

2. Roast and crush the fennel and crush the cardamom. Chop the winter melon preserve, the ginger preserve, the candied peel and the cashew nuts.

3. Dissolve the jaggery in 375 ml water in a pan, add the coconut and cook for 2-3 minutes.

4. Cool the mixture and then stir in the semolina, dates, fennel, cardamom, winter melon preserve, ginger preserve, candied peel, cashew nuts, salt, baking powder and cinnamon.

5. Separate the egg and beat the white and yolk separately. Fold into the cake mixture and pour into a buttered baking tray. Bake in a moderate oven at 160°C for 1½ hours.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

57

A theatrical table at RAJU BHAI

W

SONORITA CHAUHAN goes smoky-eyed over this contemporary Indian eatery hile the rest of the world has gone way ahead in exploring new ways of enjoying Indian food, Bahrain diners were more or less stuck with the straightforward blah. That is until Raju Bhai opened in the Water Garden City in Seef.

Opened in October 2019 by brave foodie, Bahraini Maryam Salah, it is the brainchild of Roshan Thoorira, the operations manager who is also the Executive chef. Raju Bhai uses smoke, table theatrics and culinary illusions that Roshan probably learnt while working for Michelin star celebrity chef Raymond Blanc.

The food is high on nostalgia for Indians with old classics like the Banta (six flavours) and the Vada Pav and low on the spices for the Bahraini palate. Its regular clientele is Bahrainis, Indians and Saudis.

We spoke to Roshan to find out more about this unique restaurant with the unusual name.

How did you choose such a ‘John Smith’ name for such an unusual restaurant?

The name Raju Bhai was chosen, along with the stylish logo to make sure we stood out from the milieu. Also, it is easy to remember and pronounce especially for our Arab clientele. We

58

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

DINING OUT

also wanted the tell a story with every dish and drink at Raju Bhai and the name and logo was the starting point for that story to unfold. We have become very popular with the Saudi crowd perhaps because most of our dishes are immensely instagrammable.

Tell us the story behind your most popular dish?

The Stone Age & Chocolate Explosion are our two most popular dishes. What makes it popular is the serving style, with Stone Age - Beef Tenderloin steaks cooked table-side on a Hot Himalayan Salt Slab. Chocolate Explosion, on the other hand, is a chocolate ball that is made to explode at the table using some mysterious molecular scientific techniques.

That's very interesting. Would that be your most unique dish or is there another that you would recommend to people visiting Raju Bhai?

I would say all of our dishes served at Raju Bhai are very different from those you may have eaten at any other Indian restaurant in the Kingdom. However, being a Mumbaikar, I would suggest that you definitely try the dish called 'The Mumbai Millworkers’ Vada Pav'. It is made live at the table by a chef dressed in a mill workers' costume complete with a safety jacket & helmet.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

59

DINING OUT

How do you cater to a diverse client base but still keep the original taste of the dish - the spirit of the cuisine?

Our menu features Indian classics presented in an unusual way, creative names and unique style of presentations.

While keeping the authentic flavours of the dish intact we modified it just enough to

suit the local palate, hence keeping the spirit of Indian cuisine but adding a modernist approach to the dishes and drinks.

Raju Bhai has elevated regular Indian fare into a culinary experience worthy of a five-star restaurant. The ambience is traditionally India and tries to replicate the

'Dhaba feel' with some modern comforts.

Raju Bhai is a must-try for those looking to try Indian cuisine with a twist.

Reservations: 17479360 Meal for two including Drink, Appetizer, Main Course, Dessert: BD 25

INDULGENCE

Time for tea in The Library If you are a bibliophile, what better way to have an intimate book-lovers’ treat than to gather just a couple of like-minded friends and pour out your reviews over a fine cup of English brew at The Merchant House? The Afternoon Tea here is is served in The Library, a beautiful, elegant space with a modern classic atmosphere and you can revel in a bookish atmosphere, surrounded by some fine books of the coffee table as well as serious reading variety.

The traditional afternoon delight draws its influence from the classic English afternoon tea custom while embodying the essence of the region’s spices and flavours. Most of the recipes for the freshly baked delicacies have been inherited from Gordon Campbell Gray’s grandmother, enhanced with subtle local touches, taking guests on a pleasant old-fashioned journey.

The Merchant House, located opposite Unitag Building, is Bahrain's first five-star boutique hotel in the heart of Manama's old town. It is part of Campbell Gray Hotels’ line-up of luxury properties in Beirut, Scotland and Zurich. The Merchant House is an all-suite boutique hotel featuring 46 suites, each with an open plan kitchen and dining area, as well as lounge, desk and en-suite, perfect for both business and leisure.

60

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

SALAAM SOCIETY

BIS dinner theatre serves up a hit The Bahrain India Society served up a hit with its dinner theatre show ‘Blame It on Yash Raj’ by ad guru and showman Bharat Dabholkar from Mumbai. The funny take on a modern Indian wedding with its inter-faith complications and the different ideas of family members kept the audience in splits and the dances and music provided the right touch of Bollywood and colour.

Organised by La Bonn V, the event was held at Sofitel Hotel

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

61

TECH TALK

There’s a hacker in my phone!

Y

Your phone is every bit as much a computer as any desktop, notebook or server. Protect it accordingly, warns HAIDER PASHA, Chief Security Officer of Palo Alto Networks ou have probably seen in the news that high net-worth individuals, famous athletes and

entertainers are becoming favorite targets of phone hacking. In some cases, when security experts can’t agree, it’s because mobile device forensics is very limited to even confirm that someone has been compromised and reconstruct what exactly happened.

For business executives, it’s high time to pay attention to mobile security. The last

62

thing you’d want is to be personally embarrassed or professionally compromised.

Mobile phones are becoming a fruitful and surprisingly easy target for hackers. It used to be that businesses issued their executives work phones that used only business applications. But today, our phones are just as likely to hold intellectual property memos as they are to be used for listening to music.

Hackers started by looking for salacious photos and embarrassing text messages, but now they’ve moved to mobile malware, ransomware and identity theft aimed at penetrating corporate networks and exfiltrating mission-critical data held on the phones of CEOs, board members and political leaders.

Let’s be clear: Your organization’s most sensitive and proprietary data is at risk, in large part because you are routinely accessing it through your mobile phone.

And the hackers know it. We must recognize the magnitude and potential impact of this problem and take decisive steps to bolster our cyber defense.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Mobile Phone Security Threats

When we rely on our mobile phones for work tasks, we expand the cybersecurity threat landscape. This is critical to acknowledge because most organizations not only lack proper understanding of mobile phone threats, but also lack experienced personnel to address the problem with anything more than basic mobile device management tools.

There are two big challenges associated with mobile cybersecurity threats: • The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing. The sheer number of applications we can use on our phones is exploding. Apple and Google are doing excellent work with securing their operating systems, but securing third-party applications remains a big challenge. We’ve added a lot of functionality to our phones, but much of those added features have made it far easier for bad actors to access things like our work contacts and their phone numbers. As hackers work their way into our phones through fraudulent applications which suddenly develop a second life or exploiting vulnerabilities in common applications like WhatsApp, it’s not a big leap to installing professional malware for jailbreaking, espionage, ransomware or data exfiltration.

• No Place Left to Hide. I’ll spare you the technical details, but keep in mind that mobile networks rely on vulnerable roaming protocols like SS7 or Diameter, which are easy targets for cyber threats.

Simply having access to your phone number allows hackers with a little investment to trace your location quite easily … or even to take over your incoming calls or text/SMS or WhatsApp messages.

These attack methods have been used for a long time, not only for professional espionage, but also for large-scale online banking fraud. This is also the reason why

2. Application hygiene. Any application on your phone can expose data and be used as a bridge to compromise your device. Whitelisting and blacklisting applications are now becoming standard practice for IT and security administrators, and you should follow these practices on your own phone as well. For instance, do you really need those five messenger applications? Are you automatically downloading content across social media applications? Do your kids or grandchildren use your phone and download games?

banks don’t consider SMS as a secured two factor authentication approach anymore.

All in all, it’s very difficult to protect yourself against location tracing or phone or SMS takeover attacks.

But, the good news is that the state of mobile phone cybersecurity is not as bleak as it sounds from the press. Today’s mobile phones, at the device level, have strong security architectures. The ecosystems for the most popular phones—Apple iPhone and Google Android—are highly secure, with strong hardware-based security and isolation approaches. And, unlike other software exploits, exploit code to compromise a mobile device without your interaction would cost attackers millions. A hacker has to make a huge investment if he wants to compromise your mobile phone in order to exfiltrate your data.

What You Can Do Now

Still, are you going to take a chance on exposing your enterprise’s most critical data due to lax cybersecurity frameworks and practices? Of course not.

There are three strong steps all business leaders can and should do now in order to harden their phones’ defenses: 1. Security hygiene. We’re all busy at work and ensuring that our mobile phones and apps have the latest patches may not be our top priority. But, if you’re a heavy user of your phone for business, you have to make sure it has the most up-to-date security. Also, antivirus for mobile phones is a myth. Compared to our computers, an anti-virus app on mobile phone will often not be able to protect against malicious apps.

The reason is that the hardware-based architecture of the mobile phone forces every app to be isolated from each other. However, one security control which is often overlooked on mobile devices is network security. Instead of routing all your insecurely to the Internet, you can use secure VPN or Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution. Such solution can block traffic to malicious websites or data exfiltration attempts.

3. Privacy hygiene. I know this will sound like the lecture you got from your parents many years ago, but here goes: Don’t give out personal information, especially your phone number, to strangers.

Having just you phone number will allow cyber criminals to trace you, physically and electronically, everywhere in the world.

And remember that your colleagues, suppliers and customers store your number and other contact details on their phones as well. And this data can be easily exfiltrated by fraudulent applications installed on their phones to expose your number.

The more you use your phone for work reasons, the greater you expand cybersecurity threat vectors into your organization’s applications, databases and data. It’s like opening the door of your factory wide open and handing strangers an access card to your mainframe and robotics equipment. It can only end badly.

As an executive, you should follow these best practices personally, but also support the deployment and administration of sound mobile phone cybersecurity processes for all employees. You are in a unique, powerful position to send the right message to your colleagues and subordinates. Your phone is every bit as much a computer as any desktop, notebook or server. Protect it accordingly.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

63

PARENTING

Active students achieve more academically

W

ith an emphasis on children specialising in sports and other extracurricular activities, the stress of doing well in a sport can easily override the necessity to do well in academic subjects at school. Statistically, research indicates that young people who participate in sports, whether at school or in community sports, perform better academically than children who do not participate in sports.

Playing sports is a great way to build your child’s confidence and dedication. In fact, playing sports helps students relax and reduce their anxiety.

Besides just being fun, sports can help your child perform better in school, relax more and worry less, deal with setbacks, work better with others and increase their energy — all of which helps your child balance school and everything else going on in his/her life. Recent studies and research has indicated that there is a link between physical activity and improved academic performance.

Student athletes often have to juggle a variety of athletic and academic commitments at once. Schedules are typically jam-packed and workloads tend to be heavy.

Therefore, students must make sure that their athletic commitments are working in-sync with their academic needs, not against them. They must communicate with their mentors about any potential conflicts between their athletic commitments and schoolwork. Whether on the field or within the classroom, constant improvement should be the student’s end goal.

To give students a boost in the classroom, there is nothing to beat the discipline and value of team sports. Need more reasons to get them out on the field or the court? Here are five proven benefits of sports that will help your child excel academically.

Brain Development

Studies have shown that exercising helps stimulate chemicals in the brain that affect the health of brain cells, as well as the growth and survival of new brain cells. Regular workouts also increase neural pathways by strengthening the connections from one nerve to the next.

64

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

These benefits mean that your child will likely demonstrate better memory function, an increased ability to concentrate, advanced problem-solving skills, and more creativity in school.

Accountability

Playing sports teaches kids to be accountable. When playing team sports, your child learns that they have to be an equal participant to help the team. If one team member isn’t giving it their all, it affects the team as a whole.

Learning about personal accountability is an essential part of success in the classroom. Sports help your child understand the importance of taking responsibility for getting their work done on time and being accountable for a poor grade instead of blaming external forces.

Mental Wellbeing

A child participating in sports regularly receive powerful psychological benefits, including decreased rates of anxiety and depression, increased reported well-being, and improved body image. As your child navigates the inevitable stress of school, having an outlet like sports will help to minimize negative effects stress and social pressures have on their mental wellbeing and happiness.

Teamwork

To be successful in school and their future careers, kids have to be able to work as a part of a group. STEM education is based on providing lessons based on real-world examples and requires students to work collaboratively to finish a project or reach a goal. There are few things better than sports to teach kids the importance of teamwork, and how it can make it easier to achieve a goal.

Self-Confidence

Life is not a spectator sport, and selfconfidence is an essential part of success in sports, school, and work. Researchers have found that physical activity plays a strong role in increasing self-esteem. This selfconfidence translate well to academic success, from tackling a new project to speaking up during class discussions.

Getting extra points for your UK-USA university applications It’s pretty much impossible to get into any university in the US or UK without extracurricular activities. Universities in the US & UK want to see that you’ve gone above and beyond in your intended area of study and have made a difference and/or excelled your field.

If you want to major in chemistry, a UK university is more likely to accept you if you’ve joined a chemistry club, taken extra chemistry courses at your local university and volunteered in a lab.

Although that sounds like a lot, extracurricular activities are even more important to US universities. In fact, extracurricular activities and leadership account for about 30% of your application!

That being said, US universities don’t limit you to just one passion so if you want to study science but also love filmmaking, taking part in activities such as scriptwriting, directing your own films, international film competitions, holding movie nights to raise money for an environmental science cause you care about and being the president of the science club on campus will immensely increase your chances of getting into your dream university.

It’s okay if you’re not the next Spielberg (although, that might help), as long as you participate in deep and meaningful extracurricular activities that you’re passionate about, you’ll have a fighting chance!

A quick note if you’re considering the US study path: US colleges want to see very specific things from your extracurricular activities. Make sure your activities are ticking the following boxes to increase your chances of getting in: 1. Longevity: You stick with one type of activity rather than joining a new activity every week and quitting one every other week.

2. Passion: You truly care about your extracurricular activities and aren’t doing them just to get into uni.

3. Leadership: You have taken the initiative to become a leader within your activities and community.

Al Noor students celebrations The children of Al Noor International School have been busy celebrating all aspects of life in Bahrain. Whether learning about the National Action Charter or marking Kindergarten Sports Day, the school management has led the way with discipline, enthusiasm and instilled the fun element which is so important in creating great schooltime memories for the children.

Here are glimpses of the two events in a calendar full of such moments.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

65

WHY WE’RE BETTER IS BECAUSE WE PROVIDE PERSONALIZED SERVICES

ASSOCIATED COMPANIES & AGENT’S Able Freight Pvt. Ltd. Sri Lanka

Office No. 1 | Baraka Complex, Hoora | Manama | Kingdom of Bahrain Telephone: (+973) 17532140/17531426 E-mail: info@afxpress.net | sales@afxpress.net

OPENING SOON Multi Cuisine Restaurant

FASHION

Crafts revival dominates 2020 fashion scene

A

dream of three lifelong friends, The PinkTree Company is home to a definitive lifestyle and speaks to individuals who value quality, creativity and a distinctly refined taste.

Established in 2011, The PinkTree Company aims to be a lifestyle choice solutions brand from Pakistan. PinkTree is there for all seasons and occasions. Wrapped in luxury and deeply immersed in culture and heritage, the PinkTree offers a contemporary take on the sub-continental sartorial stye. If the pret line boasts of lightness, wit and simplicity, the formals, wedding wear and couture portray grace, intricacy and luxury.

“There is so much glitter and modern grandeur in the PinkTree collection – its a contemporary style ideal for brides as well as wedding guests!” says Nazia Mustafa, “At Vestire, we have some of the loveliest of the PinkTree collections that go from candy colours to mature jewel hues.”

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

67

FASHION

Designer Anjul Bhandari is a craft revivalist and self-taught designer who has been working on making chikankari relevant again. This she has done through her contemporary take on the craft interpreted in shararas, saris, and lehengas, making her designs a talking point among brides who want the traditional in their trousseau.

Bhandari’s museum-worthy lehengas take multiple man-hours to create and loop in elements like Japanese pearls and sequins along with, of course, delicate thread work.

“I simply love Anjul’s intricate design work on the fabrics – since chikankari is a traditional hand-embroidered art, each piece is unique and replication is almost impossible.” says Nazia Mustafa, fashion curator who stocks select pieces of Anjul Bhandari masterpieces in her boutique, Vestire, “I also feel that I am part of a larger journey because these days the handiwork is carried out by women and not men, so I look at it as a way of empowering these craftswomen.”

68

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Stylish, with a Middle Eastern twist, Al Hoss offers a design palette that is modest and beautifully cut. It is a very popular label at Vestire, with young, fashion-conscious women.

Nothing matches a bespoke dress and Vestire has an atelier where you can choose exactly the fashion statement you want to make and get it made to order. Here are some special Vestire designs paired with exquisite jewellery from Riana, Shikha Jindal’s jewellery design house in Jaipur.

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

69

Arjun discovers bond with step-sisters Human relations are inexplicable. Everybody knows that Arjun Kapoor took his dad Boney’s affair and marriage to Sridevi badly and never forgave them. But after Sridevi’s death, in the process of being a pillar of strength for the devastated Boney, both Arjun and sister Anshula have drawn closer to their step-sisters Jahnvi and Khushi. But the normally boisterous Arjun is surprisingly secretive about his growing relationship with the two daughters of Sridevi.

Arjun shared that he doesn’t like to talk much about it “..because I don’t like to. I feel ‘nazar lagti hai.’ It is like a normal brother and sister relationship, how much do we speak? And later people say, ‘He is using her for publicity!’ I have no time for such negativity and it is nothing to do with box office.”

He continued, “Sometimes you just realise that you have to let go of the angst you perhaps had while growing up and be more matured. Life is constantly changing. I love the fact that in the process of being there for my father, I could connect to the two amazing people who are my sisters. God has been kind that way.

We are still discovering each other and I think that is how it should be.”

Kalki salutes women who labour Only the articulate and feminist Kalki Koechlin would go through a 17-hour labour as part of a natural water birth process and then share a thought-provoking post on the experience. The actress-writer shared a picture of baby daughter Sappho’s footprint to announce her birth and wrote: “Please welcome Sappho. Born 07/02/20.

She just spent 9 months wrapped up like a momo in my uterus. Let’s give her some space Thank you for all the good wishes and positive energy pouring in. And respect to all the women who go through the intense and gruesome experience of birth, be it vaginal or c section, so many of whom are not given credit or support for the biggest challenges they face, but are expected to do it out of some kind of duty. The process takes a huge toll both psychological and physical and should have the backing of an entire community to truly heal.”

70

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

CELEB CHAKKAR

QUOTE OF THE

MONTH

Rana reveals success quotient “(Actors) are not able to consistently do different things because it requires them to come down from a certain number and return. Now, I have made a choice. If I don't have a story to tell, I might as well stay in office. It is a simpler job than going ahead and doing something I don't like. When the audience is watching you in the theatre, the lights are off, they are not watching anybody’s split screen.They just want to be engaged in that story.

Rana Daggubati is part of the Telugu cinema royalty. He hails from the DaggubatiAkkineni families which have long dominated Southern cinema as producers, directors and actors. The multi-hyphenated star is an actor, film producer, television personality, visual effects co-ordinator and an entrepreneur, combining the many talents of his family predecessors into one awesome and dynamic package.

Talking about how he consistently breaks the mould, Rana says it is all about defining what an actor wants personally and working towards that particular model of success.

“You need to make that yardstick (of success) and stick to it. It doesn't matter if somebody next to me is doing X or Y. This is what you do.” Rana adds, “In the world of arts, unless you are unique to you, you're not going to succeed. I can’t be doing what somebody else does because it's already being done. You can’t emulate success; it’s got to be your own.”

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

71

Ash scores over Radhikaa by couple of inches Veteran actress Radhikaa Sarathkumar at a recent event of her upcoming film Vaanam Kottattum said director Mani Ratnam chose Aishwarya Rai Bachchan over her for his upcoming film, Ponniyin Selvan because Ash “lacked a few inches”. It was all in good fun and Radhikaa had the audience and Mani Ratnam in splits. She said, "Mani would prefer me to do all his important characters, but apparently Aishwarya Rai lacks a few inches (compared to) me which makes her his ideal choice," and this cracked up the crowd: "I asked Mani Ratnam for a role in Ponniyin Selvan, but he said ‘It's two inches here and there.”.

The actress said she felt the famous director had been scarred by his previous experience of working with her in his second film (Pagal Nilavu) since he faced a hard time when she was doing the role of a Bharatanatyam dancer in it.

"He cried at some point. He is crying even today. I had asked him ‘Why did you cast me in that role?'. His response was in two words – 'It's okay." she said.

72

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

CELEB CHAKKAR

Rashi escapes with lip-service Unless you are an avid Telugu filmwatcher, you will not recognize the name but Delhi gal Rashi Khanna is getting serious attention – especially since her next film is titled World Famous Lover!

Rashi has steadily made inroads in Telugu commercial cinema and is getting parts written for her. But the practical Punjabi kudi knows that she is working in a male-dominated workplace and shrugs that she does her best.

“What can we do when we are restricted by the writing? People have to believe in you to offer good roles. I improvise with whatever material I am given. There are occasions when I’ve spoken up and said I can’t say lines that make a woman sound stupid. Some directors agree with my point of view and some don’t. It’s all part of the game,” she says fatalistically.

For Rashi and other youngsters, the power centre is leading lady Samantha who rules the box office.

She talks in appreciation of how Samantha calls the shots with a tapestry of interesting roles and says, “It’s a boost to actors like me, making us believe leading women will get to do well-written characters.” Still, such lip service hardly excuses you, Rashi, of pushing the envelope yourself and refusing glam-kitten roles that are empty and just armcandy to the hero?

Unwanted guests and lemons Irrfan Khan has been keeping a low profile since his diagnosis in 2018 of cancer. A day ahead of the trailer release for Angrezi Medium, producers Maddock Films reveled that the actor may be suffering relapse.

Irrfan shared an emotional message in the voiceover in the trainer, saying, “Hello, brothers and sisters - I am with you and not with you. This film, Angrezi Medium, is very special to me. I truly wanted to promote this film as passionately as we made it, but there are some ‘unwanted guests’ in my body and they’re keeping me busy. I’ll keep you informed on that front.”

Irrfan continues, “There’s a saying, ‘When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.’ It feels good to hear, but when life really hands you lemons, making lemonade is really difficult.”

Get well soon Irrfan, we believe that you have miles to go before you hang up your boots.

MEERA RAVI

EDITOR'S VIEW

I met a young lady last week recently. Armed with a management degree, she was obviously brighteyed with ambition. When we got to talking about family, she said defiantly, “Mother is a – homemaker. I refuse to dismiss her work with the term ‘housewife’.”

Ah, that stick-in-the-throat term. Until I understood the real work involved in running a household with husband and children underfoot, I too used to shy away from being addressed thus. Even though I held down a job for most of my adult life, there were periods when I opted to make child-rearing the focus and freelance as a journalist.

Despite regular and visible bylines, I was often perceived as a housewife freelancing as a journalist instead of as a journalist taking a sabbatical from full-time deadlines.

The failure to measure unpaid household services is described by economists the world over as the greatest gender data gap of all. In every country, award-winning economist Nancy Folbre says, we now know that ‘women undertake a disproportionate share of all non-market work, and also tend to work longer hours overall than men do.’

Obviously I am looking at this data gap in the context of International Women’s Day. It has become the tradition to celebrate women and their achievements throughout March each year. We too, at Salaam Bahrain, have done so in this issue, choosing bright, compassionate achievers who created new pathways for themselves and for women who will follow in their footsteps. But it is equally important to acknowledge that despite the shining narratives and success stories, women are still taken for granted, their traditional work dismissed as being unimportant even though it underpins the fabric of the family and community and sets free the creative energies of fellow-humans of all ages and both genders so that humankind may explore its potential fully.

In the context of Bahrain and also the Asian readership that makes up this magazine’s audience, a stay-at-home wife or mom is still celebrated as an example of family values. However, we have to stop deifying the position with words alone and recognize the economic importance it confers on society. Put our money where our respect is and start quantifying the monetary value of a housewife’s role.

I can hear readers either shrug and dismiss the idea or ask plaintively how this can be done. Would it not upset the balance? Who will pay housewives their ‘salaries’? How will it be calculated? I have a simple formula: since housewives are spouses as well as parents, cooks as well as tuition teachers and domestic workers, let’s put aside BD 50 for every role played. The basic salary will come to at least BD 200. And since their work is not restricted to eight hours, add overtime to the package.

There, you see. Most households would not be able to afford housewives.

It is only a woman’s sense of duty and love for family that keeps her in this workplace called home. Don’t take it for granted in the long run. We need to re-think our work structures and economic reward process to include women more effectively and use their potential for a wider good.

Our generation waited. Will our daughters? I think not...I hope not.

74

SALAAM BAHRAIN | MARCH | 2020

Beauty moves us to great deeds HAPPY WOMEN’S DAY 2020!

Vestirebh

Our meticulouslyOur chosenbespoke fashion clothesfashion, and accessories will curated amplify your fashion statement clothing and Top-of-the-line designers and jewellery will jewellery from RIANA by honour & celebrate Shikha Jindal

Every woman’s fine taste

vestirebh

vestirefashion

vestirebh.com/shop

Visit us in Al Murjan Centre in Juffair (Mezzanine Floor, Shop 111) for the best of fusion fashion