Category: Lifestyle features

Loving Ermanno Scervino

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Mohidin Bin Hendi with Ermanno Scervino at Dubai Mall


It is always a pleasure to catch up with Mohi-Din BenHendi to see what he is up to and it’s almost always at a launch where he has played a crucial role in bringing a superb brand into the UAE for the fashion conscious shoppers.

This time it is the luxury Italian fashion brand Ermanno Scervino – its first boutique is now at the Dubai Mall. Ermanno Scervino himself hosted a beautiful evening along with Mr Mohi-Din Binhendi together with Dubai VIPs and fashion lovers and it gave us an opportunity again to catch up with old and new friends.

Guests mingled in the elegant new space and had the opportunity to meet the designer who flew into Dubai especially for the momentous occasion. The boutique opening was followed by a private dinner held at the chic Joe’s Café for a select few VIPs and fans of the brand.

The new boutique is set to become one of the most visited fashion destinations in Dubai, with Scervino showcasing the best of the best of Italian fashion. The new collection was so well received that his covetable styles are already flying off the shelves, and into every Dubai fashion maven’s wardrobes. It has an edgy femininity. For fitting and elegant, the equestrian inspired collection was an instant winner with Dubai’s discerning fashion lovers.

A very dear friend of mine just celebrated her birthday – she is one of the best dressed local Emirati friends I have and she absolutely loved the piece I gave her. To me, her approval was the best testimony to the awesomeness of the brand and its success in Dubai.

Ford – It’s that time of the year when all is pink

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My favourite warriors in Pink symbol

October is here and this is the time when Ford’s Warriors in Pink® emerge in full force to honour breast cancer survivors who have demonstrated strength and courage in their battle. Although my car or my bag often features the ‘Warriors in Pink’ items most times in the year, this month in particular we get up, close and personal with the new collection of Warriors  in Pink collection of apparel and accessories at www.fordcares.com

Breast cancer is more than a disease as it’s about people and families, whose lives are forever changed by a diagnosis. And Ford Motor Company works relentlessly every year to raise awareness and funds in the fight against breast cancer through a unique programme called “Warriors in Pink®”. Powered by Ford, the initiative is dedicated to promoting breast cancer awareness across the globe. The campaign recognises the strength and courage it takes to deal with the everyday challenges of fighting breast cancer. Warriors in Pink embodies hope, strength and courage and is about women and men finding strength within themselves,  their inner warrior, especially at a time they need it most.

I first met Sue Nigoghossian who works for Ford last year and find her an incredibly dynamic individual who passionately talks about the cause since. She mentioned to me recently how her company played a pivotal role in encouraging women to become informed and visit their doctors, educating them that early detection saves lives. In the Middle East, the disease is the number one cause of death in women and relatively low awareness rates means that women are often diagnosed with cancer at advanced stages.

I personally find Ford’s CSR work great. Recently I had a henna tattoo done reflecting 2 of the 12 Warriors in Pink symbols of hope, strength and unity in the fight against breast cancer on my hands just before a trip to Bahrain. Reaching there, I learnt of a young girl being diagnosed so I introduced her to ‘Warriors of Pink’ and gave her the scarf I had as a reminder that she had support around her.

As Sue mentions, women in our region have used henna in body art since ancient times, so it is a source of inspiration to her team at Ford to see women using henna to make such a bold statement, in a way that only our region can, in support of breast cancer awareness. The symbols are versatile, some are worn to honor those that have passed away as a result of the disease, others show a sense of solidarity and standing strong with breast cancer survivors, others to mark a commitment to life and survival in the face of the disease.

Doctors recommend that since older women are more likely to develop the disease, once women reach the age of 40, they should have an annual mammogram, in addition to monthly self-examinations.  Women under the age of 40 are advised to self-examine every three months. People concerned about any abnormalities should contact their doctor immediately.

As its October, take time to go on-line at www.fordcares.com, with 100 per cent of net proceeds from the collection goes into research of breast cancer and related support initiatives. Watch Ford Middle East’s ‘Are you a Warrior in Pink’ video to learn more about the henna campaign on www.youtube.com/fordmiddleast and www.facebook.com/FordMiddleEast. To buy the Warriors in Pink collection on-line visit www.shopwarriorsinpink.com.

Another favourite symbol I use when I have a henna tattoo

BAHRAINI PUPILS PREPARE TO SET A WORLD RECORD

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Ali Al-Hawadi, one of the Facilitators in the Bahrain Science Centre, using the ‘Memory Test’ display in the ‘Test your Talents’ gallery

World’s largest memory game to be held at the Bahrain Science Centre during Biology Week

The Bahrain Science Centre in collaboration with The Society of Biology will be part of a record attempt for the world’s largest memory game to celebrate Biology Week in October. The record attempt will take place in the Bahrain Science Centre at 4.30pm on Friday 19th October and is suitable for adults and children of all ages.

Anyone keen to put their short-term memory to the test can take part in the record attempt and learn about the fascinating world of neuroscience. The games will be simple and require no resources or preparation and will last 10 minutes. By sitting a ten-minute memory test, which has been prepared by renowned experimental psychologist Professor Bruce Hood, the pupils will be contributing to a nationwide scientific study.

Dr Mark Downs, Chief Executive of the Society of Biology, says: “This will be the climax of Biology Week, with schools, universities, and learned societies testing their memories simultaneously. We’ve been thrilled with the number of people who are keen to take part and we have high hopes for setting an impressive world record.”

According to Khalid Eshaq Alkoheji, Undersecretary for Community Development in the Ministry, the event is one of many planned at the Bahrain Science Centre to inspire and educate visitors about the life sciences.

“The involvement of the Bahrain Science Centre in the ‘Memory Test’ competition is the first of many international events in which the Science Centre will participate”, said Professor Mike Bruton, MTE Studios Director for the Science Centre, “The Science Centre is part of the international science education community and we are keen to strengthen our global network.”

Participants will sit a ten-minute memory test, prepared by renowned experimental psychologist, Professor Bruce Hood. The data from people of different ages will contribute to a scientific study.

Alongside the attempt school pupils will learn about how our brains store memories (or at least convince us we have made accurate memories!). Anyone who is interested in how the brain works, from remembering how to make a cup of tea to falling in love can watch the Society of Biology Brain Explorers video series.

Dr Downs says: “We hope the record attempt will highlight the importance of neuroscience research, especially into diseases like Alzheimer’s. The memory game is part of a series of events being held to mark Biology Week which runs from 13th-19th October and aims to inspire students about the life sciences.

The Bahrain Science Centre, located in Building 334, Road 109, Block 801, Riyadh Avenue, Isa Town in the Kingdom of Bahrain has several permanent interactive displays that test and develop the memory of visitors.

-ENDS-

Press release issued on behalf Bahrain Science Centre. For further information, please contact Shereen Shabnam on +971 507690087/ 504828177/ shereen@mtestudios.com.

Notes for editors:

The Society of Biology (www.societyofbiology.org) is a professional body for bioscientists – providing a single unified voice for biology: advising Government and influencing policy; advancing education and professional development; supporting their members, and engaging and encouraging public interest in the life sciences.

About Biology Week

The first ever Biology Week will take place on 13th-19th October, organised by the Society of Biology. Events around the country will give everyone the chance to learn about biology, the science of the 21st Century. www.societyofbiology.org/biologyweek

About Bahrain Science Centre (BSC):

The Bahrain Science Centre (BSC) is an interactive educational facility that targets children, youth and families of Bahrain. It is located in building 334, Road 109, Block 801, Riyadh Avenue, Isa Town, Kingdom of Bahrain. The science centre has six interactive exhibition galleries, an auditorium, four laboratories and a café/shop.

The role of the BSC is to promote awareness of the importance of science and technology, complement the school curriculum, stimulate curiosity and innovation, and create a forum for public debate on science and technology issues. The topics covered by current exhibitions include junior engineering, human health, the five senses, earth sciences and biodiversity.

Focusing on hands-on learning using interactive displays and people-centred programmes, such as science shows, Bahrain Science Centre also strongly promotes creativity and innovation as well as cross-generational learning. The science centre will also endeavour to promote an awareness of Bahrain’s contributions to science and technology and a strong Bahraini identity. It is an ideal family edutainment destination.

Its all about Kludi RAK

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My Fiji apartment has the same bowl but the base is dark…I love the additional accessories that I never thought of – they add so much warmth to the bathroom

Looks like my DIY mode has still not shaken off weeks after getting back from Fiji where I spent most of my time in hardware shops looking at the delightful treasures that could turn my house into a home.

Now, when I look at home accessories, it is with a different perspective and I visualize how they will look in my personal cooking and bathroom space. Bathrooms and kitchens have become the focal point of the home living experience and it is no longer about function and efficiency but instead about quality of life and pleasure…I need to feel like I am in a spa when I shower and can whip up miracles if I am set loose in a trendy kitchen.

I may not be known as a domestic diva but I do love cooking and being a Pisces, my best time is when I am in water….nothing beats a warm bath with aroma salts when it comes to getting a Pisces into chill mode.

My current favourite for kitchen and bathroom accessories is of course Kludi RAK. Being a diva, I want fittings that soothe, inspire and match my discerning tastes. And Kludi RAK satisfies my demand for decent high quality stuff that makes my personal space that much more nicer to be in … I find their designs elegant and their timeless classic fittings certainly have an edge over most of the stuff I ended up getting back home. Talking about ceramics, there is that one more thing my little heart desires….:)

Stressing about Moon Cakes

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I just received my Mandarin lessons for this week which I do every night before I sleep – that is if I am a good girl. Most nights I just keel over and the end of the week I struggle to learn all my 6 words of the week with correct pronunciation. It may sound easy to learn 6 words a week but trust me, in Mandarin, it’s a Herculean task.

Moon cake月饼(yuè bing) is a Chinese baked food product…..they look very nice too.

In Malaysia and Singapore, my nine years there had many of my friends trying to get me eat them but I more often than not didn’t take to it. But they are very tempting with some amazing presentations during the Mid Autumn Festival or the Zhongqiu Festival.

Typical moon cakes are round or rectangular pastries that measure about 10 cm in diameter and are 4–5 cm thick. The rich, thick filling is usually made from red bean or lotus seed paste and sometimes contain yolks from salted duck eggs, surrounded by a thin (2–3 mm) crust and it was those ones I avoided.

During my visit to Hong Kong and then later to Macau and more recently to Korea, I tried moon cakes again which were slightly different to the ones I ate in Malaysia and Singapore but I still prefer the traditional cakes a lot more. Most people eat moon cakes in small wedges accompanied by Chinese tea which makes it a really nice , traditional experience, especially when it’s with good friends.

Now although I may know a bit about moon cakes, I am still struggling with my pronunciations in this lesson today – wish I had more Chinese and Asian friends in Dubai who could help me with this so my last-minute rush to complete lessons becomes a less traumatic experience.

My shoe fetish goes one level Up!

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I can do some serious damage to someone with those spikes

I love the detail and can’t wait to get my hands on these

Despite being a shoe collector, I have to date never been loyal to one brand when it comes to my shoe fetish….my mobile shoe rack in my car, the huge shoe storage space under my 4 poster bed, the walk in shoe closet at the entrance to my villa or my usual shoe shelves give evidence that I have very diverse eclectic or maybe even eccentric taste when it comes to shoes and boots and no brand has so far impressed me enough to be a loyal fan….although Michael Kors has come very close.

So for me to blog about shoes is a new thing despite being an authority on what works and what doesn’t (for the record, none of my Jimmy Choos have impressed me so far so no matter how famous the brand is, i would not touch it again). It is therefore unusual that I thought of writing about a pair of shoes I have not even tried yet but have been bowled over by their Industrial and bold designs. I’m talking about the AW12 collection from Vince Camuto.

The shoes in this collection reflect an air of bold fierceness. Since I am slowly venturing into the fierce fashion zone (my way of trying to appear strong and firm), I cant wait to try these out….if you have tried this brand before, let me know what your thoughts are….i hope they are as comfortable and gorgeous as they look in the pictures. I certainly don’t want a repeat of the Jimmy Choo experience. My feet ache just thinking about it!

‘How to… click good pictures in low light situations’ with Canon

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After spending hours getting a video camera for my youngest sibling in Fiji who is superb in getting the best specs for stuff within her budget, I thought I was done with cameras for a while.

Now I have another sibling walking around the house with some mega pixel wide angled gadget looking smug so I am now sharing this awesome tips I received from some friends at Canon who sent some awesome tips from Hendrik Verbrugghe, Marketing Director of Canon Middle East – he shares a few tips for clicking mesmerizing shots in dim light.

Capturing images in a low-lit environment has always been one of the major challenges for photographers, as sharpness and accuracy of exposure can be compromised, resulting in blurred or dark images. Canon cleverly addresses this issue with its innovative HS system enabling users to capture extremely low-lit environments in stunning clarity even without the help of a flash.

The technology represents a cutting edge combination of high-sensitivity sensor and DIGIC 4 processor working together to capture stunning images even in low light. Enjoy these tips below from Hendrik:

1: Get steady: Unsteady positioning of your camera could affect the clarity of your image, especially when using slow shutter speeds. Avoid any jerking movements by steadying one or both of your elbows against your body or an external surface when using a handheld camera. Cameras such as Ixus 510 and PowerShot SX 260 powered with the HS system produces less noise and blur, usually a problem in low light situations. This reduces the need to shoot with flash or tripod, allowing you to capture the real, natural atmosphere of the moment.

2: Open your aperture and increase your ISO: The simplest way to take good pictures in dim light is to increase your camera’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO setting on a digital camera makes it more sensitive to light. Basically, the higher the ISO setting on your digital camera, the faster it will respond. For example in Canon’s Ixus 510, one can increase the ISO from 100 to 3200. As a result, the camera becomes more sensitive to light and is able to capture maximum amount of light to paint the scene perfectly.

3: Shooting Modes: Most modern point-and-shoot cameras have preset modes, which you can choose based on the scene you are at the moment. When shooting in a low lit environment, choose the “low light” mode or even the “night” mode which will let the camera function in slower shutter speeds, which means longer exposure time.  Whether shooting night-time portraits against a dark background or a moving subject, indoors, Canon’s HS system makes it possible to shoot in more dim-lit situations than before.

4: The right use of flash: For more effective lighting when you’re outside in dim light and your subject isn’t within flash range, turn off your flash and capture the scene in the existing light. The typical digital camera flash range is 6 to 10 feet. Subjects that are outside the flash range will be too dark. This is particularly important when shooting night landscape photography.

5: A little camera trick: When you half press the shutter release button of your camera, it will focus on the frame you have chosen. Once it does this, it will calculate all the required settings for that particular frame. Try ‘tricking’ your camera by focusing on something darker than your subject, so that it prepares itself to allow for more light, then move your camera back to what you really want to take and click away.

6: Press the shutter button smoothly: Say goodbye to blurry pictures. This is possible by gently pressing the shutter button. It produces mesmerizing shots and helps in giving the right balance to the sharpness of the image.

Obtaining clearer and crisper images in low light situations has often been a challenge for regular DSC users. Putting these tips into practice will enhance the photos of even the most inexperienced photographer. So next time you find yourself stuck in a dim light environment, use it to your advantage and to put your new skills into practice to capture some stunning images.

I’m in love again -With Phantom Venus

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How beautiful is this :):):)


 Its awesome to always fall in love…that exhilarating feeling one gets and the best things one can fall in love with are of the non-breathing ilk ….no clutter, no heartbreak, no expectations…man, I could go on.

So when I called Alaa to tell him I am in love again, he naturally sighed with an OMG until I told him it was related to his latest note to us about the Rolls-Royce team’s new surprise, Phantom Venus – a one-of-a-kind motor car inspired by the legend of the Queen of Sheba.

Revered without parallel in Middle Eastern cultures, the story of Balqis, Queen of Sheba has been celebrated in a car that embodies the beauty and grace, intrinsic to the Queen’s legacy. Conceived, designed and crafted by the Bespoke team at the Home of Rolls-Royce in England, Phantom Series II Venus is adorned in ethereal White Pearl exterior, completed by Oak Burr veneer and Forest Fall leather – creating a luxurious interior ambiance without peer.

Hand-painted twin-coachline, finished with gold crown emblem, exclusive to Phantom Venus, elegantly illustrates a story that has been weaved through dynasties and mythology alike.

Geoff from Rolls Royce is naturally delighted tobe able to present a car here that so elegantly celebrates an incredible part of Middle Eastern folklore.

Perfectly complimenting the theme of the motor car, luxury goods house Asprey has created an exquisitely crafted handbag stitched in Seashell, finished in Forest Fall and White Pearl and embellished with the crown emblem. This exclusive piece perfectly encapsulates the story of a woman who ruled as both king and queen with authority and poise.

I’m actually not sure if I love the car more or the bag…. Not too bothered as they both give equal amounts of visual and mental pleasure to this diva!

Loving the new Sacoor Brothers AW12 Ladies Dresses

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Nice 🙂


 Inspired by young NJD, I am becoming a fan of Sacoor Brothers more each day….beyond my fascination for polo, I now find myself planning to venture into the dreaded Dubai Mall and face the parking and exit woes just to pick out some office dresses.

The gorgeous brothers are celebrating the arrival of cooler weather with colours and fabric to match so diva can step out in style with their elegantly tailored dresses perfect for a formal day or a night out on the town.

For the uninitiated, the international fashion and lifestyle brand based out of Portugal started as a dream of 4 brothers who intended to give the world of fashion refinement, elegance, quality and design. I’ve met all of them on a number of occasions and respect their aim to bring quality clothing to the region….NJD adores their polo range and she looks über cool in their clothes.

Along with their fashion line for men, ladies and boys, the brand is also well-known to have dressed personalities from the world of fashion, cinema and television….plus NJD of course who is their unofficial brand ambassador/advocate.

McLaren Automotive shines as always

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McLaren Lights 🙂

 

I’m going through a McLaren phase. yes….After a tryst last weekend with my gorgeous Maximilian and his ‘Designed by Maximilian’ Audi, I am back to my roots this week as i follow preparations by global super car brands for the Paris Motor Show.

 

 

McLaren has revealed a dramatic light film which provides further insight ahead of global reveal – great news is you can view and embed the full Paris Motor Show video at the official McLaren Automotive YouTube channel – www.YouTube.com/McLarenAutomotiveTV

I would urge you to watch the story continue to unfold as McLaren Automotive unveils the next chapter on Thursday 27 September. A full video, previewing the next chapter for McLaren Automotive, has now been launched ahead of the British sportscar manufacturer’s appearance at the motor show in Paris….enjoy 🙂