August 2026 | Issue 277 Bahrain's Lifestyle Guide for HER BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES www.womanthismonth.com Digital Edition
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 BYSTANDER 2 25th HRH Princess Sabeeka Photography Cup Winners Honoured The Bahrain Garden Club honoured the winners of the 25th HRH Princess Sabeeka Photography Cup, celebrating creativity, environmental awareness and the beauty of Bahrain through photography.
WOTYA 2026 4 womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 Become a Partner A limited number of sponsorship opportunities remain available for organisations wishing to become part of the Woman of the Year Awards 2026. Businesses looking to demonstrate their commitment to recognising excellence while aligning with one of Bahrain’s leading recognition initiatives are encouraged to come forward before the remaining partnership opportunities are filled. Sponsors benefit from year-round visibility through Woman This Month, Bahrain This Month, Gulf Daily News, digital campaigns, editorial features, the Woman of the Year podcast, outdoor advertising and the annual Winners Edition, while supporting an initiative dedicated to recognising outstanding women across Bahrain. Award Partners The 2026 edition is proudly supported by organisations that share the awards’ commitment to recognising exceptional women. Jetour is the Title Partner, joined by Home Centre as Design Partner. Radio Bahrain is the Radio Partner, Assure Consultancy serves as Audit Partner, Asghar Ali is the Fragrance Partner and Talking Pictures is the Creative Production Partner. Join the Movement With nominations closing on August 31 and a limited number of sponsorship opportunities still available, now is the time to recognise exceptional women and become part of one of Bahrain’s leading initiatives celebrating their achievements. Nominations remain open for the Woman of the Year Awards 2026 until August 31, giving individuals, businesses and organisations across Bahrain the opportunity to recognise women whose achievements are making a lasting difference. Organised by Red House Marketing and presented by Jetour, this year’s programme features 21 awards across five categories, together with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award honouring a woman whose decades of contribution have helped shape Bahrain’s society, industry or culture. Nominate Before August 31 With only a short time remaining before nominations close, individuals, businesses and organisations are encouraged not to wait. Every nomination has the power to bring an inspiring story to light and ensure exceptional women receive the recognition they deserve. Whether in business, education, healthcare, hospitality, the creative industries or community service, the awards celebrate women whose dedication, leadership and achievements deserve wider recognition. Beyond the Awards The Woman of the Year Awards extend far beyond the Grand Finale. Through Woman This Month, Bahrain This Month, Gulf Daily News, social media, editorial features, outdoor campaigns, the annual Winners Edition and the Woman of the Year podcast, nominees and winners will continue to share their stories with audiences throughout the year. Get Involved Today Nominations close on August 31. Whether you know an exceptional woman whose achievements deserve recognition or your organisation would like to become part of one of Bahrain’s leading initiatives celebrating women’s achievement, don’t miss the opportunity to get involved. To nominate an exceptional woman, submit your nomination before August 31. If your organisation would like to support the Woman of the Year Awards 2026, contact the team today to secure one of the remaining sponsorship opportunities. To submit a nomination: www.womanoftheyearawards.com
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 WOTYA 2026 5 Amna Syed (Red House Marketing): [email protected] Business, Innovation & Technology Women driving economic growth, innovation and transformation. • Woman in Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Innovation • Woman in FinTech & Finance • Woman in STEM • Woman in Law & Advocacy • Girl of the Year (Under 18) Creative Industries (Orange Economy) Recognises women advancing Bahrain’s creative and cultural sectors. • Woman in Creative Industries (Orange Economy) • Woman in Visual & Performing Arts • Woman in Fashion • Unido Rising Star of the Year Health, Education & Social Impact Honours women improving lives through healthcare, education and community development. • Woman in Health & Wellness Leadership • Woman in Education & Thought Leadership • Woman in Beauty & Personal Care • Woman in Philanthropy & Community Impact Hospitality & Sports Celebrates leadership across Bahrain’s hospitality and sporting sectors. • Woman in Hospitality • Woman in Sports • Woman in Culinary Arts Media, Communications, Advocacy & Public Engagement Highlights women shaping communication, public dialogue and media. • Woman in Digital Media & Content Creation • Woman in Corporate Communications & Public Relations (PR) • Woman in Marketing • Woman in Journalism (Print, Broadcast & Digital) Special Recognition Lifetime Achievement Award Honours a woman whose decades of contribution have helped shape Bahrain’s society, industry or culture. Awards at a Glance 21 Awards. Five Categories. One Lifetime Achievement Award. Reflecting on the journey of the awards, Amna Syed, Creative Partnerships Director at Red House Marketing, says: “The Woman of the Year Awards began as a simple conversation in our office, inspired by one belief: that the extraordinary women of Bahrain deserve to be seen, celebrated and remembered. Today, that conversation has grown into a platform creating meaningful impact across Bahrain. One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been meeting women who never sought recognition for themselves. Instead, they were nominated by their families, friends and colleagues, often with the words, ‘It’s your time to be seen.’ Moments like these remind us exactly why this platform matters. As we enter our third edition, it is inspiring to see the awards continue to grow, reaching more women and uncovering remarkable stories. This is only the beginning. The Woman of the Year Awards belong to everyone who believes in recognising excellence. We welcome conversations with organisations that share this vision and want to create meaningful community impact. Together, we have the opportunity to build a lasting legacy for the women of Bahrain.” If you know an exceptional woman making a difference, nominate her before August 31 and help bring her story to a wider audience. Commenting on GDN Media’s involvement with the initiative, Alison Lillywhite, Sales Director at Al Hilal Group, says: “At GDN Media, we believe meaningful recognition has the power to create lasting impact. Our association with the Woman of the Year Awards over the past two years has been driven by a shared commitment to celebrating the women shaping Bahrain’s future across every sector. The awards shine a spotlight on leadership and achievement while inspiring future generations. Initiatives like these thrive because organisations recognise the importance of supporting platforms that celebrate excellence and strengthen the wider community. When partners come together with a shared vision, they help create opportunities that extend well beyond the awards evening, ensuring the achievements of remarkable women continue to inspire others.” Organisations interested in becoming part of the awards are encouraged to contact the team now while sponsorship opportunities remain available. To discuss sponsorship opportunities: Alison Lillywhite (Al Hilal Group): [email protected]
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 WOTYA 6 WOTYA Radio Bahrain Joins Radio Bahrain Company (RBC), a portfolio company of Mumtalakat, has been announced as the Official Radio Partner of the Woman of the Year Awards (WOTYA) 2026, reinforcing its commitment to recognising excellence and celebrating the individuals shaping Bahrain’s future. As Bahrain’s national English-language radio station, RBC has continued to expand its role beyond broadcasting by supporting initiatives that strengthen communities and shine a spotlight on positive achievements. Its partnership with WOTYA builds on that commitment by celebrating women whose leadership, innovation and dedication are making a lasting impact across a wide range of sectors. Reflecting on the partnership, Chief Executive Officer of Radio Bahrain Company, Mr. Ala Abdulla Ghawas, highlights the important role media can play in recognising achievement and inspiring future generations. “At Radio Bahrain Company, we believe the media has the power to amplify stories that inspire positive change. Partnering with the Woman of the Year Awards reflects our commitment to celebrating the remarkable women whose achievements continue to shape Bahrain’s future while encouraging the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers. We are proud to support a platform that honours excellence, ambition and meaningful impact,” he remarks. The partnership also supports RBC’s broader mission of creating content that informs, inspires and celebrates the people driving progress across the Kingdom. By championing initiatives that recognise talent, diversity and achievement, the broadcaster continues to strengthen its role as a trusted platform for community engagement and national storytelling. The Woman of the Year Awards 2026 will recognise outstanding women across a broad range of categories, celebrating individuals whose contributions continue to inspire excellence and make a meaningful impact throughout Bahrain and the wider region. As the Official Radio Partner of the Woman of the Year Awards 2026, Radio Bahrain Company will help promote the awards across its on-air and digital platforms in the lead-up to the ceremony. 2026 radio.bh
Your summer glow begins here. All prices are inclusive of taxes. Terms and conditions apply. O er is subject to availability. Promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any vouchers or discounted o ers. Advance reservations are required. No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. © 2026 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. LET US RELAX WITH Step into a sanctuary of summer wellness at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bahrain. Indulge in restorative ESPA body treatments, experience the hydrating expertise of Valmont facials, and discover a curated collection of luxury skincare, fragrances, and resort essentials at our Spa Boutique. Designed to leave you refreshed, radiant, and renewed. This exclusive seasonal experience is available until September 30, 2026. Your summer glow begins here.
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 LIFESTYLE 8 Rays of Radiance This summer, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bahrain invites guests to escape the heat with exclusive seasonal treatments and luxury wellness experiences designed to restore body and skin. At the heart of the seasonal offering is the ESPA Summer Skin Glow, a 60-minute body treatment created to leave skin feeling nourished, smooth and refreshed. Beginning with a full-body exfoliation using a mineral-rich blend of sea salt and essential oils, the ritual removes dull, dry Summer offers the perfect opportunity to escape the heat and focus on self-care. Until the end of September, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bahrain is celebrating the season with exclusive wellness experiences featuring luxurious treatments, premium skincare and carefully curated retail collections. skin before a deeply relaxing back massage and luxurious body oil application restore moisture and reveal a healthy-looking glow. Priced at BD63, the treatment is ideal for anyone preparing for a holiday or simply seeking a restorative escape from the summer heat.
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 LIFESTYLE 9 Rue De Verneuil Lemlem Clothing Guests looking to focus on facial skincare can experience Valmont’s Hydration of the Bisses, one of the Swiss luxury skincare brand’s signature treatments. Suitable for all skin types, the facial replenishes moisture deep within the skin, helping improve texture and restore radiance while leaving the complexion refreshed and visibly plumper. The experience concludes with Valmont’s renowned collagen mask, celebrated for its lifting and firming properties. It helps redefine facial contours while enhancing elasticity to leave skin looking naturally radiant. Available in 75-minute (BD105) and 90-minute (BD125) options, the treatment offers a personalised approach to intensive hydration and skin renewal. The Spa Boutique allows guests to continue their skincare routine at home with a curated selection of premium products and accessories. ESPA’s Active Nutrients range uses naturally nutrient-rich ingredients to nourish and protect the skin, while Valmont’s Swiss skincare and fragrance collections, including Collezione Privata and Palazzo Nobile, bring the brand’s expertise beyond the treatment room. Guests can also discover Lemlem’s lightweight resort wear, crafted from breathable fabrics for effortless summer dressing, alongside contemporary handbags from Rue De Verneuil, recognised for their clean lines and versatile designs. Marriott Bonvoy members can also enjoy a 10% saving on selected Ritz-Carlton branded merchandise. Available until 30th September, the seasonal programme offers an opportunity to relax and give both body and skin the attention they deserve. For reservations or more information: 17586808
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 INTERVIEW 10 This month’s cover captures a fleeting moment of childhood mischief, reflecting photographer Shereen Ahmed Rafea’s love of authentic storytelling. She shares the story behind the image and the approach that shapes her work. Tell us about the photograph on this month’s cover. What was the idea behind it, and what story were you hoping to tell? The photograph was taken during a photography workshop centred on country living. Rather than creating a posed image, I wanted to capture an authentic moment of childhood playfulness and mischief. Looking back on your journey, what first inspired you to pick up a camera, and what has kept you passionate about photography? I’ve loved cameras for as long as I can remember. As a child, I would borrow my dad’s camera on family holidays and carry it everywhere. During the Covid-19 pandemic, I finally had the time to learn photography properly through online tutorials. I spent hours photographing our garden and my niece and nephew, and the more I learned, the more I fell in love with it. Photography has brought me so much joy. I love documenting life’s milestones, observing changing light and capturing genuine emotion. What draws you to the moments you choose to photograph? I’m naturally drawn to people, especially genuine smiles and candid moments that capture real emotion. Looking back through my work, those are the photographs that stay with me because they’re the moments that move me most. How has Bahrain influenced the way you see and photograph people and places? Bahraini culture and the kindness of its people have had a huge influence on my photography. I love capturing genuine smiles, and I think Bahrain’s warmth and hospitality naturally shine through in the people you meet every day. What usually catches your eye first when you’re composing a photograph? Usually it’s either beautiful light and shadow or an authentic human moment. I photographed my cousin’s engagement party, and the emotional moments, especially the tears of happiness, became some of the images I’ll always remember. What advice would you give aspiring photographers who are still finding their creative voice? At one point, I spent a lot of time worrying about finding my own style and ended up losing sight of why I picked up a camera in the first place, which was simply because it made me happy. Today, I’d encourage people to focus less on creating a signature style and more on creating photographs that make them feel something. If an image evokes emotion in me and in the people viewing it, then I think that’s a worthwhile pursuit. Through Her Lens
11 BEAUTY womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 K-Beauty Icons From barrier-repairing ceramides to the pursuit of ‘glass skin’, K-beauty has transformed routines around the world through innovative formulas and hero ingredients. Whether you’re discovering Korean skincare for the first time or refreshing your routine, these tried and tested favourites continue to set the standard for healthy, radiant skin. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule Centella Asiatica, often referred to as Cica, is one of Korean skincare’s signature ingredients. This minimalist ampoule contains 100% Centella extract sourced from Madagascar to help calm redness, soothe irritation and replenish hydration, making it particularly well suited to skin exposed to intense sunshine and frequent air conditioning. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence Snail mucin has become a K-beauty icon thanks to its ability to support hydration while helping skin look smoother and healthier. Formulated with 96% snail secretion filtrate, this fragrancefree essence has a lightweight gel texture that layers easily with the rest of your routine while helping improve elasticity and leaving skin feeling soft. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ Daily sun protection is essential, especially in the Gulf, and this lightweight sunscreen has become a favourite for its comfortable finish. Combining broad-spectrum SPF with rice extract and probiotics, it hydrates while helping support the skin barrier. Its invisible finish leaves no white cast and sits comfortably under make-up, making it an easy everyday choice. Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner Heartleaf extract has quickly become one of Korea’s standout skincare ingredients. Containing 77% Heartleaf extract, this toner helps soothe irritation, reduce the appearance of redness and balance excess oil without stripping the skin of moisture, making it particularly popular with those prone to breakouts. Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum Hydration remains the foundation of healthylooking skin, and this serum combines multiple forms of hyaluronic acid to help replenish and retain moisture for lasting hydration. Its watery, fast-absorbing texture makes it especially suited to warmer climates. Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream Ceramides are essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, helping to prevent moisture loss and protect against environmental stress. This rich yet comfortable cream helps restore compromised skin barriers while providing lasting hydration without feeling heavy. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Blending propolis with niacinamide, this bestselling serum helps brighten uneven skin tone while refining the appearance of pores. Rich in antioxidants, propolis nourishes the skin, while niacinamide helps promote a smoother, more radiant complexion. Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask One of Korea’s latest skincare favourites, this hydrogel mask combines collagen, hyaluronic acid and peptides to deliver an intensive boost of hydration. Designed to mould closely to the skin, it gradually delivers its nourishing essence, leaving the complexion looking plumper, smoother and refreshed.
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 OPINION 12 Back to school brings new schedules, fresh routines and hopeful beginnings. For many students, especially those who are neurodivergent or who learn best with tailored support, it can also bring stress and uncertainty. Across Bahrain and the wider region, schools are increasingly working towards more inclusive environments that respect individuality, value different abilities and help every student thrive. Within this shift sits an important but often misunderstood role: the shadow teacher, sometimes known as a learning support coach. A shadow teacher is not simply someone who sits beside a child. At their best, they are a skilled inclusion partner who helps students access learning, participate in classroom life and build independence over time. Supporting Access and Independence The role of a shadow teacher should never be about creating dependence. Instead, it should focus on helping the student gain the tools, confidence and strategies needed to take part more fully in school life. This may include: • Breaking tasks into manageable steps. • Clarifying instructions and classroom expectations. • Using visual supports, routines or supported choices. • Helping with organisation, transitions and self-regulation. • Supporting communication so the student can express needs appropriately. • Working with teachers without lowering standards or removing meaningful learning opportunities. The end goal is always growth. A shadow teacher’s support should be temporary, developmental and designed to help the student do more for themselves. Why Supervision Matters The success of a shadow teacher depends on structure. Without proper guidance, support can accidentally become a permanent crutch or focus too much on short-term comfort instead of long-term progress. Strong inclusion practice requires a clear framework. This usually includes defined responsibilities, measurable student-centred goals, regular monitoring, supervision meetings and professional coaching. Shadow teachers should be supported by school leadership, inclusion coordinators or SEN leaders so their work aligns with the school’s wider inclusion goals. This matters not only for accountability, but also for wellbeing. When everyone understands what is happening, why it is happening and how progress will be measured, parents, teachers and support staff face less pressure and confusion. A Shared Plan Inclusive support works best when it is a team effort. Teachers understand classroom demands, peer relationships and learning expectations. Parents bring insight into routines, triggers, strengths and what works at home. Specialists such as counsellors, speech and language professionals or behavioural experts can add further guidance. Together, the team can set goals that are realistic and connected to everyday school life. These may include following multi-step instructions, joining group activities, managing transitions, building homework routines or improving communication. Planning to Fade Support Perhaps the most important principle is that support should be planned with independence in mind from the beginning. This means: • Starting with targeted help to establish skills and routines. • Gradually reducing prompts as the student gains confidence. • Transferring responsibility back to teachers and peers. • Reviewing progress regularly and adjusting support based on evidence. When this is done well, students feel more capable, teachers feel more confident and parents feel reassured that the plan is purposeful rather than open-ended. A Modern Inclusion Model In Bahrain’s move towards more inclusive schools, shadow teachers can be powerful allies when their role is properly framed, supervised and built around independence. The best shadow teacher does not replace the teacher, limit the child or extend dependency. Instead, they make learning accessible today while steadily helping the student belong, participate and progress alongside their peers. Brain Wave can help source, train and supervise your child’s coach, giving them the support they need to soar to new heights. Fifi Kiwan is a Behaviour Consultant and Certified ADHD Coach with 18 years’ experience supporting communication, behaviour and cognitive development for families and professionals. Shadow Teachers: Quiet Partners in Inclusive Classrooms
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 LIFESTYLE 13 Heart in Harmony Bahraini singer-songwriter Reem Baqeri reflects on the experiences that shaped her and why staying true to herself remains at the heart of every song she writes.
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 LIFESTYLE 14 It’s beautiful that, through a song, I’m able to connect with another human being who has shared a similar emotion or experience. I also hope to encourage people to be in touch with their feelings through my music.” She also hopes more young women feel empowered to pursue creative careers, despite the doubts they may encounter along the way. “In a place like Bahrain, it is difficult to block out that noise,” she observes. “You will hear that pursuing music or other creative careers, like drawing or painting or acting or dancing, is not a good choice because it will not give you security. But that’s when you need to have courage to be true to yourself and give yourself the chance to dream. No one knows the true path to your happiness but yourself. As long as you’re For Reem Baqeri, songwriting began as a private conversation with herself. Long before she shared her music with audiences, it became a way of understanding her own emotions, laying the foundation for the artist she would become. That journey began at home, where her father, a music teacher, regularly played the piano and her mother’s karaoke gatherings filled the house with song. Creativity became part of everyday life, and songwriting soon evolved into a deeply personal outlet. “Writing songs was something I started doing as a teenager as a form of journalling,” she recalls. University introduced Reem to musical theatre for the first time, an experience that transformed a lifelong love of music into a clear career ambition. “That’s where I was first exposed to musical theatre and completely fell in love with it,” she reflects. “That’s when I realised I wanted to take music seriously and pursue it professionally.” For Reem, the creative process has always been where she has felt the most alive. It is what comes afterwards that can prove more difficult. “I truly never hesitate to start writing or to make songs. It’s more a matter of when I’m ready to share these songs with the world,” she explains. Reem says Bahrain’s social culture has also influenced the themes she explores in her songwriting. “A common thing I’ve noticed in Bahrain’s social culture is emotional avoidance. As someone who is very emotional, that encourages me to share my music and connect with people through the stories I share in my lyrics, because I want to encourage people to be vulnerable and be in touch with their own feelings as well,” she remarks. For Reem, those conversations should not end when the music does. “Being in touch with your own feelings means knowing exactly what you are feeling and what makes you feel that way,” she adds. “It’s a beautiful thing that we are emotional beings, so knowing your emotions means knowing your own self.” Reem also takes great pride in representing Bahrain wherever she performs. “I’ve always loved who Bahrainis are as a whole,” she acknowledges. “We’re proud, loud and you’ll always find us smiling and laughing because we really appreciate the little things. That’s something that’s always given me the confidence I need wherever I go and whenever I’m performing abroad. I’m proud to call myself a Bahraini singer-songwriter.” While performing in New York, Reem had the chance to watch a Broadway Sings performance before taking to the stage herself. “Seeing the performers right before me really gave me the confidence I needed and the push to truly pursue music as a full-time career,” she remembers. One track on Reem’s debut album tested her confidence before it was released and almost did not make the final cut. “I was scared it was too vulnerable and that people would not like that,” she admits. “After sharing it with an audience, however, I found out it was one of their favourites.” As she continues to write, Reem hopes her music keeps resonating with listeners. “I hope people can find comfort in the lyrics and music I write,” she reflects. “I think humans go through a lot of similar emotional experiences. pursuing your passion, you’re truly living.”
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 15 BYSTANDER Lexus Bahrain Showcases RZ 500e Lexus Bahrain introduced the all-electric RZ 500e during an exclusive launch event at its Sitra showroom. Guests enjoyed a first look at the brand’s latest luxury electric SUV, discovering its innovative design, advanced technology and vision for the future of premium electric mobility. Andy’s Birthday Celebration Andy Middleton celebrated his first birthday in Bahrain with a small gathering at the Red House Marketing office.
womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 SPORTS 16 Changing the Game Sporsista is making sport more accessible for women in Bahrain by creating a welcoming community where women feel confident getting active. When CEO and Co-founder Maram Hakeem and Co-founder Bayan Hakeem launched Sporsista, they were not trying to build another sports academy. They wanted to solve a problem they had experienced themselves: finding people to play sport in a relaxed, welcoming environment without the pressure of competition. “We wanted to play sports for fun, but it was difficult to find enough people to play with, especially in a comfortable and private environment for women,” they explain. “We also weren’t looking for the structure or commitment of sports academies, we simply wanted casual games where anyone could join.” As they spoke with more women across Bahrain, they realised the challenge was widely shared. That insight became the foundation for Sporsista, a community designed to make sport more accessible and enjoyable. As the platform has grown, the founders say their most important decision has not been expanding the number of activities but protecting the culture they set out to create. They wanted women to associate Sporsista with a sense of belonging rather than performance. “We never wanted Sporsista to be known only for sports, we wanted it to be known for how it makes women feel,” they say. “Women know they’ll be welcomed and respected.” That trust is reflected in mothers confidently allowing their daughters to join adventure trips and activities, as well as newcomers who arrive believing they are “not sporty enough” before discovering a supportive community. The founders have also learned that facilities alone are not enough to encourage participation. While Bahrain offers excellent sporting venues, they believe community is often the deciding factor. “People are much more likely to try something new when they know they’ll be surrounded by friendly, encouraging people rather than feeling pressured to perform,” they explain. This philosophy shapes every aspect of Sporsista’s programme. Activities range from badminton and basketball to cycling, kayaking and adventure experiences, with many new ideas suggested directly by members of the community. Women’s sport in Bahrain has gathered significant momentum in recent years, something the founders welcome. However, they believe the greatest opportunity lies in creating more opportunities for women to participate recreationally. “Not everyone wants to join a league or train professionally,” they note. “Many simply want sports to be an enjoyable part of their lifestyle.” Looking ahead, the founders hope to create a dedicated Sporsista Hub bringing multiple sports facilities together in one purpose-built space designed around the needs of their community. That impact is already evident. In just two years, Sporsista has organised more than 500 activities involving over 7,000 participants. For the founders, the numbers only tell part of the story. “Seeing women make lifelong friendships, discover a sport they never imagined they’d enjoy, or tell us that Sporsista helped them become more confident and active reminds us why we started in the first place.” sporsista
17 SHAHMEEN womanthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 As I prepare to bid farewell to this beautiful country, I find myself reflecting on one of the most meaningful parts of my journey: my years with the Pakistani Women’s Association (PWA). Established in 1998, the registered charity is built on compassion, service and community, reminding us never to take for granted the simple things many of us enjoy every day. Sometimes, something as small as offering a bottle of water to someone in need can carry profound meaning. Over the years, our team at PWA has had the privilege of working alongside remarkable individuals, organisations and the Embassy of Pakistan. Together, we have organised refreshment, meal and hygiene drives, awareness campaigns, community initiatives, crisis support and, above all, an education scholarship programme that has become the cornerstone of PWA’s work, supporting around 30 to 35 students every month. Knowing that these scholarships are helping young people continue their education has been Bahrain in my Heart As she prepares to leave Bahrain after 15 years, former Pakistani Women’s Association President Shahmeen Islam reflects on the journey that turned the Kingdom into home and the lasting impact of giving back to the community. Fifteen years ago, I arrived in Bahrain when my husband relocated here with our three young children. I came with excitement, uncertainty and a little fear, never imagining that this gracious island would become so much more than a place to live. Today, Bahrain is home and, in many ways, it always will be. Back in Pakistan, I was an architect running my own consultancy. It was a career that kept me fully occupied and one I truly enjoyed. Moving to Bahrain meant putting that chapter on hold, but as one door closed, another quietly opened. I found myself drawn towards philanthropy and discovered a deeper sense of social responsibility. I have always believed that when we feel safe and secure, wherever we are in the world, we have a responsibility to give back. Bahrain gave me that sense of belonging. It gave me the opportunity to serve and to grow. one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Another initiative close to my heart is the Youth Ambassadors Programme, which we launched during my tenure as President. It gives young people the opportunity to discover the value of service and empowers them to make a meaningful contribution to their communities. Watching the next generation embrace compassion and volunteerism has been one of my proudest achievements. If there is one message I hope to leave behind, especially for Pakistani women, it is this: do not seek the benefits of giving back, experience them. The greatest reward is often not what we receive but who we become through serving others. Although I am leaving, my connection with Bahrain will continue through the Qyssa podcast, future initiatives and every opportunity I have to give back to the community. I firmly believe that service is never limited by location but by intent. Bahrain will always have my heart.
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2026 IN HER SHOES 18 As a woman, what’s your greatest strength? I can handle pressure without losing the human side of what I do. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, drawing, learning languages and exploring new creative interests all help me recharge in different ways. What’s inspiring you right now? I’ve recently been inspired by conversations around creativity, artificial intelligence and the future of marketing. What would your dream car look like? A powerful, intelligent SUV with a bold personality. This month, we step into the shoes of Noora Sherif, Marketing Specialist at Motorcity Bahrain – JETOUR Bahrain, to learn more about the person helping shape one of Bahrain’s fastest-growing automotive brands. Noora Sherif All About Her Career & Vision What leadership quality are you most proud of? Taking ownership. When I start something, I stay involved and committed until it’s completed properly. What’s the biggest lesson your career has taught you? Things won’t always go according to plan. Stay calm, find a solution and keep going. What advice would you give young professionals entering the automotive sector? Stay curious and learn beyond your job title. Ask questions, take responsibility and don’t wait until you feel completely ready before taking an opportunity. Three words that describe you. Creative, determined and curious. Your daily mantra? Do your best, learn from it and keep moving. What motivates you every day? Seeing an idea become something real. What do you enjoy most about working at Motorcity Bahrain? No two days are the same. Work & Beyond Rapid Fire Early bird or night owl? Early bird. Fine dining or comfort food? Comfort food. Tea/ coffee? Matcha!!! Three things you never leave home without? My phone, car keys and a chai. Beach escape or city break? Beach escape. I wish I was a mermid! Is there a creative hobby or passion that helps you recharge? Drawing has always been a creative escape for me. I also enjoy learning languages, training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and constantly picking up new hobbies. I am naturally curious, so I rarely stick to only one interest. Which woman inspires you the most, and why? My mother’s strength, patience and support have taught me that you don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to make a lasting impact. What misconception about women in the automotive industry would you like to change? That women aren’t genuinely interested in cars or don’t understand the industry. Passion, knowledge and ability have nothing to do with gender. What should the world know about women working in Bahrain? Women in Bahrain are ambitious, capable and adaptable. What’s one piece of advice you live by? Focus on what you can control and do your best with it. What does success mean to you today? Success means growing without losing who I am.
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