February 2026 | Issue 271 Bahrain's Lifestyle Guide for HER BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES www.womanthismonth.com Digital Edition
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 INTERVIEW 2 A Voice Emerging Megan Jones represents a generation of young women learning that confidence is built through commitment. Balancing school, discipline and creative ambition, her journey offers a clear glimpse into what it takes to carve out a sense of self in an industry that rarely slows down.
3 INTERVIEW womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 Early Foundations For Megan, performance has never felt like a distant ambition. It has been part of her everyday life for as long as she can remember. Born in Queensland to British parents and raised in Bahrain from infancy, her earliest memories are tied to being on stage and discovering what it meant to perform in front of others. It was in Bahrain, she recalls, that everything began. “I first started singing and performing here, and from the age of five I was working with Natalia Estanom at BelCanto Vocal Studio,” she says. “That was when I really discovered how much I loved being on stage.” A Lesson in Discipline Those early experiences laid the groundwork for a journey that has steadily gathered momentum. Singing competitions, vocal training and school productions soon gave way to larger stages and more professional environments, each one sharpening her discipline and deepening her understanding of what the craft demands. Performing in The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum marked a particularly defining moment. “It was my first time performing on stage in London, and doing it in the West End’s largest theatre was incredible,” she says. “With more than 2,300 seats and packed audiences twice a day, the energy was unlike anything I’d experienced before.” The production itself carried weight well beyond its festive familiarity. Dating back to 1950, The Nutcracker remains a Christmas institution, and Megan was acutely aware of the standards expected of everyone involved. “The level of dancing and production was on another level,” she says. “Being surrounded by that calibre of talent teaches you very quickly what professionalism looks like.” Crystalising Her Ambitions That perspective was reinforced back in Bahrain, where a series of standout roles helped crystallise her ambitions. In 2022, she was cast as Michelle in Elf The Musical at Manama Cultural Hall, performing alongside professional artists Dominic Andersen and Daniele Coombe. “That experience, followed by playing Oliver Twist in my school’s production of Oliver, really changed things for me,” she says. “It was after those roles that I knew I wanted to pursue performing arts as a career.” The next step took her to the UK, where she secured a place at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts, an institution known for producing some of the industry’s most respected performers. Life there, she explains, is both demanding and grounding. “There’s so much talent around you that it keeps you realistic,” she says. “Every year we audition for the major production, just as you would for a professional show. It teaches you how casting directors think and what a role truly requires.” Next Steps Her next challenge is already on the horizon. “Our upcoming production is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and I’ve been cast as the Narrator,” she says, a role that calls for vocal stamina, storytelling and confidence in equal measure. Beyond the stage, Megan’s creative world is expanding into music. In September 2025, she signed a three-year worldwide recording contract, a milestone she approaches with both excitement and focus. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity,” she says. “I naturally gravitate towards softer ballads while playing the piano, but my producer encouraged me to explore more upbeat material for my first release.” With several original songs already shared, she is now refining lyrics and structure ahead of studio recording. “It’s a learning process,” she adds, “but one I’m really enjoying.” Songwriting, for now, draws more from imagination than autobiography. “At this stage, I’m drawing inspiration from imagined stories, as that fits better with the audience,” she says. “Although I did write a couple of songs based on school life, which was interesting in its own way.” Defining Priorities Balancing creativity with structure remains a constant theme, particularly as she prepares for her GCSE years. “At the start of the next school year, I’ll be choosing my GCSE subjects as well as deciding which performing arts pathway to focus on,” she says. “The options are Musical Theatre, Acting or Commercial Music, but while I hope to succeed on stage, my main focus will still be academics.” Her schedule leaves little room for complacency. Days begin early and end late, filled with lessons, rehearsals, songwriting and training. “Once GCSEs start, school runs from 8am to 5.45pm,” she says. “After that, it’s homework, singing lessons, extra dance classes and writing music. And yes,” she adds with a laugh, “fitting in sleep wherever possible.” Words of Advice For young girls considering a future in the performing arts, Megan is clear about the realities behind the spotlight. She points to Stage Stars, filmed at Tring Park and broadcast by the BBC, as an honest reflection of what the industry demands. “It shows the commitment required,” she cautions. “It’s not just glitz and glamour. It’s discipline and resilience.” Her biggest piece of advice is simple: “Turn up every day, even when it’s hard.”
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 INTERVIEW 4 Building Worlds Borders Across From Bollywood studio sets to international productions across the Gulf, art director and production designer Swechha Sharma brings cultural fluency and a hands-on approach to creative decision-making behind the camera.
5 INTERVIEW womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 Ms. Sharma’s entry into the film industry was driven by persistence. She began her career in Mumbai, working across commercials, television, short films and feature productions, using those early years to understand filmmaking at its most practical level. “I was learning the craft from the ground up,” she recounts. “I wanted to understand how sets really function, how departments interact and how decisions ripple across the entire production.” Those early years were critical, particularly in an industry where credibility is measured by consistency, particularly for women navigating male-dominated roles behind the scenes. In such environments, authority is rarely assumed. It is built through preparation and delivery. For Ms. Sharma, learning how systems function was foundational to being taken seriously on set. Her first major feature break came with Badlapur, a project that marked a turning point in her career. Working closely with Varun Dhawan, Yami Gautam and Nawazuddin Siddiqui exposed her to the discipline required on large studio films. “That project opened the door to larger productions,” she reflects. “It also taught me what preparation really means when the scale increases.” From there, she moved on to films such as Happy New Year and other major Bollywood projects, collaborating with actors including Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and Abhishek Bachchan. The scale was demanding, but it refined her working method. “When the pressure is high, clarity becomes essential,” Ms. Sharma says. “You have to know your decisions before you are asked to justify them.” Alongside feature films, she also worked on long-format and television projects for Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. in Mumbai. The experience strengthened her understanding of broadcast workflows and delivery timelines. “It reinforced how closely creative decisions are tied to logistics,” she notes. “If an idea does not work within the structure, it will not survive.” After relocating to Bahrain, Ms. Sharma’s career expanded across the Middle East. She began working on commercials, short films and scripted series, contributing to projects for organisations such as STC, Batelco and EDB, as well as regional series including Misbah and Ramadan Sharif. Living and working in the Kingdom influenced her creative judgement in quieter ways. “Strong design in Bahrain is less about excess,” she explains. “It pushes you to be intentional, because every decision is visible.” When she first began working in Bahrain, the production ecosystem was still developing, particularly in relation to structured art direction and production design. Processes often had to be built in real time. “There was not always a template,” Ms. Sharma says. “You had to adapt quickly, while ensuring the work still held up.” Her regional experience also includes a Pakistani feature film shot in Bahrain, involving a month-long schedule with an international crew arriving from Pakistan, the United States and Europe. Coordinating across cultures reinforced the importance of communication, particularly for women working in technical roles. “Different crews come with different expectations,” she notes. “Your work has to establish trust before you speak.” One of her most significant milestones came with Samosa Chapati, where she served as production designer. The film became a commercial success and is recognised as the first large-scale Bahraini–Bollywood collaboration, shot across Bahrain, Dubai and India. “That project required me to be deeply involved,” Ms. Sharma explains. “It was not just about design. It was about aligning creative teams across countries.” More recently, she worked as art director on the Netflix Indian series Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web, starring Emraan Hashmi, with key scenes filmed in Bahrain. The role demanded disciplined preparation and restraint. “The environments had to feel authentic without drawing attention to themselves,” she says.“Everything had to serve the story.” As Bahrain continues to appear on international screens, Ms. Sharma sees the opportunity as structural rather than symbolic. “Accessibility matters,” she observes. “Being able to move quickly between locations and decision-makers makes collaboration smoother.” She also points to the growing depth of local crews. “The talent is already here. What changes outcomes is exposure and trust.” For Ms. Sharma, long-term sustainability in the industry depends on understanding the mechanics behind filmmaking. “It is a system,” she says. “Once you understand how it works, confidence follows.” That belief led her to create a podcast aimed at demystifying the filmmaking process and sharing practical knowledge. Looking ahead to an upcoming Hollywood production filming in Abu Dhabi, Ms. Sharma sees preparation as the defining phase of any large-scale project. Her strength, she believes, lies in moving comfortably between working cultures shaped by Bollywood, regional cinema and international production environments. “When you understand how different systems operate, collaboration becomes easier,” she explains. For young women in Bahrain interested in working behind the scenes in film, Ms. Sharma’s advice is direct. “Credibility comes from consistency and preparation,” she says. “Film sets are demanding, but they are also classrooms.” She actively encourages women interested in art direction and production design to seek on-set experience and mentorship. “If someone is willing to learn and commit to the work, I am always ready to help.”
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 INTERVIEW 6 Finding Words Stillness in At just 18, Bahraini writer Jana Hany published her first book, Laisa Laka Onwan (You Have No Address), marking a considered and quietly confident entry into Bahrain’s literary landscape. Her work resists the urgency that often defines contemporary expression, instead unfolding with a reverence for reflection and attentiveness to inner life.
7 INTERVIEW womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 Quiet Beginnings Jana’s book did not begin as a public ambition. Its earliest form lived in the pages of a notebook given to her by a close friend, a space that quickly became personal and unguarded. “She asked me to make it something special, and I really did,” Jana recalls. That notebook became a place where she wrote through difficult days and personal uncertainty, often returning to faith as a source of grounding. Faith and Writing Over time, writing shifted from release to reassurance, becoming something steadier and more reflective. “It became a reminder that bad days, no matter how long they last, always pass,” she shares. The decision to share her words came unexpectedly. After posting a short passage online, the response reframed how she understood her writing’s purpose. “I realised sharing my words might calm someone else the way they have always calmed me,” she notes. Faith runs gently through Laisa Laka Onwan, shaped by patience and hindsight rather than certainty. Jana traces this tone back to a moment that stayed with her after encountering a video of a sheikh speaking about how hardship fades with time. “If you look back, you’ll realise there were many bad days you thought would never end,” she remarks. “Today, you don’t even remember them.” That idea shaped her process, encouraging her to write both within difficulty and beyond it. “I started writing about difficult situations while I’m going through them,” she divulges. “I return to them after I’ve moved past them.” The Power of Stillness This approach allows emotion to be captured honestly, while still leaving room for perspective. Her writing remains intentionally quiet, a deliberate contrast to the noise of daily life. “I see stillness as more than just a pause,” Jana stresses. “It’s a way to connect deeply with our thoughts and emotions in a world that rarely slows down.” For young women especially, choosing stillness can feel countercultural. Jana views it as an act of self-definition rather than withdrawal. “Choosing stillness through writing or reflection becomes a quiet rebellion,” she observes. Rooted in Bahrain Bahrain plays an essential role in shaping that sense of grounding. Jana speaks of the country not simply as a setting, but as an emotional environment that has informed her voice. “This interview itself reflects Bahrain’s role in my journey,” she emphasises. “The way Bahrain has appreciated my work and my effort has meant more to me than words can explain.” That appreciation stems from a very personal place. In the book, she reflects on her father and the way former students continued to speak of him with warmth years later. “Those moments, that kindness, that sense of belonging, this is Bahrain to me,” she adds. “It’s not just a place. It has shaped how I write and how I see the world.” Navigating Transparency Publishing at 18 required a careful balance between vulnerability and confidence, particularly as a young woman sharing personal reflections publicly. Jana approaches that balance with intention. “I treat my personal experiences as data for a larger human truth,” she explains. Vulnerability, she believes, must come from honesty rather than performance, asking herself, “Is this real, or am I just trying to look good?” Confidence, meanwhile, is rooted in discipline. “I edit my thoughts until they’re no longer just my diary,” she shares. “They become something shaped and complete.” Literary influence has also shaped her voice, with Jana openly acknowledging the impact of Arabic writer Adham Sharqawi and his emotionally direct style. When readers express uncertainty about whether they will connect with her writing, she offers a simple point of reference, asking, “Do you like reading Adham Sharqawi?” Publishing the book has reshaped how Jana understands herself, both creatively and personally. “It showed me that my messy, private thoughts could matter to someone else,” she reflects. Visibility, once intimidating, became affirming. “I used to think that being seen would make me feel judged,” she admits. “Instead, it made me feel strong.” Seeing her parents proud mattered deeply, but the wider response carried its own emotional weight. “Seeing my country proud of me took me to another level emotionally,” she affirms. “It gave me confidence I didn’t know I had.” For young girls in Bahrain drawn to writing but hesitant to begin, her advice remains direct and grounded. “Your voice already matters,” Jana offers. “Don’t wait until you feel ready or perfect. Start now and trust yourself.”
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 INTERVIEW 8 Part Shift Creative of a As Bahrain’s art scene continues to evolve, artists like Fatema Al Abbasi reflect a growing confidence rooted in experimentation and crossdisciplinary practice. Working between architecture, visual art and makeup, her practice challenges rigid definitions of medium and signals a broader shift in how creativity is being expressed in Bahrain today. Form in Flux Architecture was the starting point for Fatema, grounding her work in structure, space and light. “It has shaped the way I think,” she states. To this day, it continues to influence how she approaches form and visual balance. Visual art and makeup followed more intuitively, becoming parallel expressions rather than departures from her original training. Fatema views her disciplines as interconnected. “What links all my work is art and attention to detail,” she divulges. Architecture provides the framework, while makeup and visual art allow emotion to surface. Over time, this intersection has become her defining approach. Ideas Taking Shape Storytelling sits at the centre of her process. Each project begins with a narrative, which she then translates visually through material, texture and light. Fatema shares that she always starts by identifying the story she wants to tell before allowing the medium to shape how that story is expressed. Architecture informs how a piece is built, while makeup allows for a more instinctive response. Together, they form what she describes as “one complete visual work.” Her working method remains largely consistent across mediums. Research and inspiration come first, followed by sketching, which helps her define mood and direction before a concept takes shape. From there, the work develops gradually through experimentation. Most creative days are spent at The Creative Co, working alongside her partner and their team. Other days are more exploratory, experimenting with makeup, testing ideas and setting up shoots. She says she knows a piece is finished when she can “step back, look at it and feel genuinely happy and proud.” Environmental Influence Bahrain plays a defining role in shaping her visual language. The country’s architecture and natural light influence how she approaches shadow and texture, while its oral storytelling traditions continue to inform her concepts. Recent work inspired by Um Al Khadr w Al Leef, as well as an immersive horror experience created for Hawa Al Manama, reflects her interest in reinterpreting traditional narratives in contemporary forms. These projects, she notes, are about honouring cultural memory while allowing space for experimentation. Fatema sees Bahrain’s art scene moving in a positive direction, with increasing support and visibility for local creatives. She hopes her work contributes “a distinct, personal perspective” to that momentum, balancing experimentation with cultural grounding and adding to the wider creative conversation taking shape in the country. Taking her work beyond Bahrain while continuing to represent Bahraini female artists remains a key aspiration. Her message to young girls considering creative paths is heartfelt: “Start, even if you don’t feel ready,” she urges. “Explore, make mistakes and trust your voice. Your creativity matters, and it deserves space to grow.”
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 PARENTING 9 If you stand still long enough in the aisle of any supermarket or perhaps waiting near the gate at school pick-up, you will inevitably overhear a conversation that makes you feel like you are failing as a parent. Usually, it involves another parent describing their seven-year-old’s schedule, which includes competitive swimming, an advanced language tutor and a weekend coding boot camp. We live in the era of the maximised childhood, where we are told that to raise a functional human, we must expose them to every sport, every skill and every vaguely educational trend before they hit puberty. We treat our children’s lives like a bingo card, terrified that if we miss a square, if we skip the trendiest new activity or the ‘must-have’ educational toy, we have somehow irrevocably damaged their future. But perhaps the solution is not to play the game faster – it is to burn the bingo card entirely. The Anti-Bucket List Enter a new tradition that does more for collective parental sanity than any enrichment programme ever could: the Anti-Bucket List. While a regular bucket list is a collection of dreams you hope to achieve, the Anti-Bucket List is a sacred catalogue of things a family is intentionally, happily and guiltlessly not doing. It is a declaration of independence from the tyranny of forced fun. The first item on this theoretical list might be the ‘Perfectly Coordinated Professional Family Photo Shoot’. You know the one: it requires buying everyone matching beige outfits that will never be worn again, driving to a scenic location when everyone is tired and bribing small children to smile naturally while a stranger points a large lens at them. When you weigh the stress involved against the actual reward, it becomes clear that memories can be captured just fine on a phone camera, even if someone’s hair is messy and nobody is matching. Next up is the obligatory, overpriced holiday resort getaway to destinations that are famously crowded. Dragging children through airports to stay at a hotel that costs a fortune, only to spend the entire time managing meltdowns in a crowded breakfast buffet, is not actually a vacation. It is an endurance sport. The Joy of Missing Out Instead, families can embrace the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO). Staying home, building forts in the living room and eating cereal for dinner teaches kids that a break does not have to mean jetting off somewhere. It can just mean stopping. The Anti-Bucket List is not just about parental laziness, although strategic laziness is a highly underrated parenting tool. It is also about teaching children a vital life skill: the ability to curate their own lives. We are raising a generation that is constantly bombarded with options. They are told they can be anything, do anything and see everything. While that sounds empowering, it is mostly just overwhelming. By modelling the power of a polite ‘no’, parents teach their kids that they do not have to participate in every trend to be relevant. They do not have to say yes to every invitation or join every club to be liked. There is a profound relief that washes over a household when you stop trying to keep up with the imaginary standards of the ‘perfect’ childhood. When you stop rushing from one activity to the next, you suddenly find yourself with something incredibly rare: time. Empty, unassigned, beautiful time. In those pockets of silence, children rediscover the lost art of boredom. And it is in that deep boredom that they actually become interesting. They invent games that do not require batteries. They read books they were not assigned. They lie on the rug and stare at the ceiling and dream weird dreams. Creating an Anti-Bucket List is an act of resistance. It says that we are enough just as we are, without the accolades, the badges or the perfectly curated social media feed. It teaches kids that a full life is not measured by how many activities are crammed into a weekend, but by how much enjoyment is found in the ones actually chosen. So, grab a notebook and start a list. Write down the things that cost a fortune but bring no joy. Then, cross them out. Feel the weight lift. Look at the children, who are likely happily doing absolutely nothing, and realise that by giving them less, you have actually given them so much more. The modern narrative sells the maximised childhood as proof of good parenting. Ouiam El Hassani urges families to try an Anti-Bucket List, embrace JOMO and reclaim time, calm and joy by saying no. The Art of the Empty Calendar
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 CHARITY 10 Grounded in Service The Pakistan Women’s Association has officially commenced its new tenure for 2026. Registered under the Ministry of Social Development since 1998, PWA has worked within communities across Bahrain for more than two decades. Its development over time has been shaped by the involvement of its members and the causes they support. The newly appointed Board brings together experienced members and new voices as the Association moves into the year ahead. This shared approach continues to inform how PWA defines its work and direction. In recent years, the Association has adjusted how it connects with its community, strengthening its digital presence and developing initiatives that encourage participation. One of these is the Youth Ambassadors Programme, which continues to involve young people in community-focused activity. Education remains a key area of focus. PWA’s Education Scholarship Fund, active for over two decades, currently supports approximately 35 to 40 students on a monthly basis, helping them continue their studies through ongoing assistance. The Association is also recognised for its community initiatives and collaborations, which are supported by the professional involvement of its members across different fields. As the new tenure begins, the Pakistan Women’s Association continues to invite women interested in contributing their time and skills to its ongoing work within the community. Pakistan Women’s Association, 2026 From right to left: Saba Saleem (GS), Rahila Nadeem (PR Head), Syeda Ayesha (Community Head), Shahmeen Islam (President), Wajeeha Zarrar (VP), Faiza Gulzar (Treasurer) and Isma Farhan (AGS). Rotary Club of Salmaniya The Rotary Club of Salmaniya held a productive meeting at The Westin City Centre Bahrain.
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 BEAUTY The truth owners do not want to hear Your staff often knows the market better than you. While you manage one or two salons, they talk to each other and track every new opening in town. They are not guessing what others pay, they simply know. Start with salary ranges Build your offers around clear ranges based on qualifications, experience and references. Quality has a price and it is an investment that generates returns. The mindset of hiring the cheapest option, expecting premium results and hoping people will learn on your clients must stop. If you want professional results, pay professional wages. Balance your team structure Having juniors and assistants is fine, every salon needs them. The mistake is building the entire team with only juniors and assistants. You need balance. Seniors and experienced professionals bring standards, mentorship and credibility that juniors cannot provide yet. They train the team, handle VIP clients and set the quality benchmark for the salon. The taboo topic: the salary gap Let us be honest about the Middle Eastern market. We often see Western or international employees earning more than equally talented regional stylists, which can create a feeling of injustice. Is it just about the passport? No. It is the cost of import. When you hire from a high cost-of-living country such as the UK or parts of Europe, you are not only paying for talent, you are paying to match what they would earn back home. If you do not offer a base salary close to those rates, they will not relocate. Here is the owner’s mistake: many owners pay high salaries but continue charging local prices. If a stylist costs you premium, the service price must be premium too. The reality nobody wants to discuss Consider this example. An Asian employee with excellent skills generates strong income for her salon and receives BD500. A European employee with the same skills, the same income generation and the same BD500 salary has a very different outcome. The Asian stylist may build significant savings back home, while the European stylist may struggle to maintain a decent standard of living in Bahrain. Same work, same pay, different realities. It is not about unfairness, it is about understanding that BD500 has different value depending on where you are from, while both people still add value to the business. Pay for value, then price for profit As a consultant, I have seen loyal professionals take home almost nothing at month’s end. I have also seen mediocre seniors collect top salaries while talented juniors outperform them and bring in more revenue. Neither is right, and both hurt your business. The guiding rule is simple: pay for value. If you pay rock bottom, you get zero loyalty. Most employees work to support their families, if you do not value them, they will leave for BD five more elsewhere. The smart solution is to create value through your pricing structure. Charge premium rates for senior stylists and standard rates for juniors. That way, you can compensate based on experience and market positioning while keeping the business profitable. Once this pricing strategy is right, everything changes. Salon Salaries: The Honest Reality! Every month, we invite readers to pose their own questions for Badia to answer in her next column. Make sure to ask your own by emailing [email protected] A k Badia Your Monthly Guide to Salon and Spa Success ? Because when staff do not have a clear vision of how, when and why their salary can increase, frustration never stops. If there is no clear path, no rules and no criteria for progression, every discussion becomes emotional. People compare, pressure builds and owners feel trapped. Salary problems reduce when teams understand what is expected, how they can grow and when an increase is possible. Without structure and visibility, salary will always be a problem, no matter the amount. Why do salary problems never stop in my salon, no matter how much I pay? Salary is one of the most sensitive topics in salon management. Most owners think it is simple maths, but it is actually a confrontation with market reality. 11
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 OPINION 12 Occasionally, a column doesn’t end after it’s been published. When I referenced my new role at UniHawk in last month’s column, I didn’t expect it to resonate as much as it did. Several readers asked me to share more about the work itself and what drew me to it. On reflection, that curiosity makes sense. My recent writing has been rooted in change, reinvention and learning to make more intentional choices. This felt like the natural next part of that conversation. As a former teacher (it still feels strange to say former teacher), I have observed a strange contradiction at the heart of modern education. Students are repeatedly assured that their future is full of possibilities, and yet they are expected to make some of the most consequential decisions of their lives before they have even begun to understand the systems they are navigating. Subject choices, standardised tests, university applications, international admissions pathways. Each decision carries weight and each comes with the pressure of ‘getting it right’. For so many students the process starts to feel less like opportunity and more like obligation. This is where UniHawk comes in. A Platform Built Entirely Around Student Success UniHawk is a student mobility platform that works with students from middle school right through to university application and admission. Our purpose is simple and focused: to help students make informed and confident decisions, and to support them academically and strategically along the way. Rather than offering generic advice or last-minute application support, UniHawk works with students holistically. In practice, that support takes several forms: ● Career and academic pathway counselling ● Profile development ● Subject-specific tutoring ● Standardised test preparation ● University admissions guidance and support Each element is designed to work together, giving students clarity about not just where they are applying, but why. Why Modern Guidance Must Go Deeper Career guidance today has become much more complicated. International admissions, standardised testing, competitive programmes and ever shifting entry requirements mean that surfacelevel guidance simply doesn’t cut it anymore. While students may receive guidance at school, that guidance may not be able to handle the full complexity of international university pathways. UniHawk fills that gap by combining career guidance, academic planning, test preparation and admissions strategy into a single, coherent framework. Academic Support That Builds Confidence A key part of UniHawk’s work lies in our tutoring and academic From Starting Over to Starting Strong Rachel Radford’s column in Woman This Month dives into pivotal issues impacting women, reflecting her unique perspective and experiences. support. We really don’t believe in pushing students to their limit for the sake of results alone. Instead, tutoring is used to reinforce subject understanding, improve consistency, and build confidence. Students learn how to study effectively, manage their workload and approach tricky concepts without feeling overwhelmed. These essential skills will serve them far beyond any single exam. Strategic Standardised Test Preparation Standardised tests continue to be the bane of existence for many students applying to international universities. UniHawk’s approach to test preparation focuses on strategy as well as content. Students are guided through exam structure, question styles, and time management, alongside targeted academic preparation. The goal is not just higher scores, but calmer, more confident students who understand how to perform under pressure. University Admissions Without Guesswork University applications are often treated as a numbers game. But more applications means more choices which ultimately means more stress! UniHawk takes a more thoughtful approach. Students are guided in building strong academic and personal profiles, shortlisting universities strategically, and presenting themselves in their best light, authentically. Applications become intentional rather than reactive. For parents this can bring reassurance and for students it brings ownership of the process. Why This Matters Having worked in education for years, I have seen too often how capable students can lose confidence simply because they don’t understand the system they’re navigating. As humans we have this way of internalising confusion as failure, and for students this often manifests as self-doubt. What UniHawk offers is not grandiose promises or vague affirmations, but rather clarity, structure and informed support at exactly the stage when students need it most. A Platform Worth Knowing About This column is very intentional in its focus on UniHawk because students today, more than ever, need guidance that is informed, personalised and centred on them. For students preparing for what comes next, and for parents desperate for clarity in an increasingly complex educational landscape, UniHawk is a platform worth paying attention to. If you’re a parent or student in Bahrain navigating upcoming academic decisions, and would like to know more about how UniHawk can help, I encourage you to reach out to me. You can reach me at [email protected]. I’m always happy to continue the conversation!
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 OPINION 13 Bullying is an issue that affects many children and teens today, shaping not just their social landscapes but also how they see themselves and think. The consequences of bullying can linger much longer than the hurtful words thrown around; they can influence self-identity and cognitive abilities, leaving lasting scars that affect development. The Emotional Landscape of Bullying When a child is bullied, it’s more than just unpleasant; it can be a deeply damaging experience. Kids often feel scared, anxious or depressed, emotions that can distort their self-image. They might start to believe the negative things bullies say, leading to diminished self-esteem. During adolescence, a crucial phase where individuals work to understand their identities, bullying can create confusion and uncertainty about who they are. Cognitive skills can also take a hit. Kids who are constantly worrying about being bullied may find it hard to concentrate in class or remember what they’ve learned. Struggling to engage in the learning process can lead to falling behind academically, and this can have long-term effects on their education and career paths. The Power of Parents and Educators To combat the challenges of bullying, both parents and teachers can make a significant difference. Here are some practical strategies to help support children who are navigating these rough waters: Foster Open Communication Creating a space where children feel safe to share their feelings is crucial. Open dialogue about experiences with bullying can help kids feel less isolated and more understood. Regular check-ins, not just during crises, encourage ongoing conversations and resilience building. Spread Awareness Schools have the opportunity to educate students about bullying, empathy and conflict resolution. Incorporating these topics into regular lessons can foster a culture of understanding and support. Peer support programmes can demystify the bullying experience, helping students learn the importance of kindness and standing up for one another. Model Positive Behaviour Children are like sponges; they soak up what they see. Parents and teachers should lead by example, demonstrating empathy and effective problem-solving skills in everyday situations. This modelling can inspire kids to act similarly and cultivate a more compassionate environment. Encourage Social Engagement Helping children get involved in extracurricular activities can bolster their social skills and selfconfidence. Whether it’s team sports, arts or community service, these experiences allow kids to build friendships and find their place in social settings, acting as a buffer against bullying. Implement Clear Support Systems Schools need to have clear, accessible policies in place for addressing bullying. Educators should be trained to recognise the signs and intervene effectively. Establishing confidential reporting channels and providing counselling resources can offer victims much-needed support. Teach Resilience Building resilience is essential. Equip kids with tools to deal with difficult situations, such as emotional regulation techniques and problemsolving skills. Mindfulness and cognitivebehavioural strategies can empower them to manage their emotions and tackle challenges head-on. Understanding the impact of bullying is vital for the healthy growth of a child’s identity and cognitive skills. Through open communication, education, positive role-modelling and robust support systems, parents and educators can create a nurturing environment where children flourish. By guiding them through these challenges, we equip young people with the resilience and confidence they need to face the world, paving the way for a brighter future. Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst Fifi Kiwan explores how bullying reshapes children’s self-image and learning, then offers practical steps for parents and schools to rebuild confidence, resilience and safe, supportive peer cultures. The Impact on Self-Identity and Cognitive Skills Navigating Bullying:
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 NUTRITION 14 Preparing Your Body for a Healthy Ramadan Consultant, Lifestyle Nutritionist and Meal Planner, Dr. Tejender Kaur Sarna, more popularly known as Dr. Tejji, shares simple strategies to prepare your body for the lifestyle changes throughout the Holy Month. As Ramadan draws closer, women across the GCC find themselves preparing on many levels: planning meals, adjusting routines and mentally readying themselves for a month that is deeply spiritual yet physically demanding. Between long fasting hours, changing weather, family responsibilities and social gatherings, the body needs thoughtful preparation to move through Ramadan with ease and vitality. Pre-Ramadan nutrition isn’t about restriction or sudden lifestyle overhauls. Think of it as a gentle transition; a way of supporting your body so that fasting feels steady rather than draining, and nourishing rather than exhausting. Train Your Body for Longer Gaps Between Meals During Ramadan, the eating pattern naturally shifts to two main meals: suhoor and iftar. To help your body adapt, begin spacing out meals a couple of weeks in advance. Reduce frequent snacking, aim to finish dinner earlier and avoid heavy late-night eating. This gradual adjustment helps stabilise blood sugar levels, reduces midday hunger and prevents the fatigue many women experience during the first week of fasting. Build Meals That Truly Nourish Energy during fasting comes from balance, not volume. In the weeks leading up to Ramadan, focus on meals that combine all essential nutrients. Include complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat roti, brown rice, oats, barley or traditional whole-grain breads for sustained energy. Add proteins like lentils, chickpeas, eggs, fish, grilled chicken, lean meat, yoghurt or laban to support muscle health and satiety. Healthy fats from olive oil, nuts, seeds and small amounts of ghee improve fullness and nutrient absorption. Round off meals with vegetables and salads to support digestion and immunity. Hydration Starts Before Ramadan Begin improving hydration well before Ramadan by sipping water consistently throughout the day instead of relying on large amounts at once. Include water-rich foods such as soups, stews, cucumbers, watermelon, oranges and laban. Gradually reduce caffeine from tea, coffee and energy drinks, as excess caffeine can worsen dehydration and trigger headaches once fasting begins. Ease Off Sugar and Fried Foods Ramadan foods are comforting and meaningful, but entering the month with a high intake of fried snacks and sugary desserts often leads to sluggishness, acidity and bloating. Start cutting back gradually on fried pastries, samosas, pakoras and sugary treats. This helps regulate appetite and makes it easier to enjoy festive foods mindfully during Ramadan. Support Digestive Comfort Digestive discomfort is common during fasting. Improve fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dates and seeds, whilst including probiotic foods like yoghurt or laban. A healthy gut supports smoother digestion, better energy and reduced bloating throughout the month. Pay Attention to Women’s Nutrient Needs Iron, calcium, vitamin D, and protein are particularly important for women. Strengthen nutrient stores with dates, leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy products, fish and eggs. Persistent fatigue, dizziness or weakness should always be discussed with a healthcare professional before Ramadan begins. Align Sleep, Stress, and Nutrition Ramadan naturally changes sleep patterns. Begin adjusting your routine early; sleep a little earlier, reduce late-night screen time and create calming rituals such as prayer, light stretching or mindful breathing. Quality sleep supports appetite regulation, mood and overall stamina while fasting.
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 RAMADAN 15 Reconsidered Modesty, Ramadan ushers in a more thoughtful approach to dressing. Curated by WTM’s own Karen Crasto, this edit reflects how respectful dressing can sit comfortably alongside modern fashion, aligning modest silhouettes with the broader direction of 2026 style. The Elevated Co-Ord Ease continues to define the modern modest wardrobe, with coordinated sets emerging as a natural extension of refined dressing. Longline tunics paired with fluid trousers, as well as softly structured abaya sets, offer a sense of polish without feeling overworked. The focus is on proportion and finish rather than statement detail. Subtle tailoring, tonal palettes and quality fabrics allow the silhouette to speak for itself, creating looks that feel considered yet effortless. Modern Majlis Chic A more assertive sensibility is shaping how modest fashion is being worn today. Elegance now carries a sense of authority, expressed through clean lines and architectural form. Tailored tunics styled with structured trousers anchor the city abaya aesthetic, where restraint feels intentional rather than reserved. Neutrals remain dominant, softened by gentle draping and precise cuts. Occasional gold accents appear with purpose, reinforcing a look that is composed, contemporary and confident. Tradition Reconsidered Rather than dramatic reinvention, modest dressing continues to evolve through refinement. International silhouettes are adapted with sensitivity, shaped by fabric choice, scale and cultural understanding. The result is an aesthetic that feels modern while remaining grounded. This approach values restraint and clarity, allowing heritage to remain present without feeling literal or nostalgic. Accessories with Intent Accessories are approached with the same sense of control. Structured bags, clean footwear and carefully chosen jewellery complete an outfit without overwhelming it. Metallic elements are used sparingly, offering contrast through texture and finish rather than shine alone. These details add depth and quiet sophistication, reinforcing a look that feels editorial yet wearable.
womanthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 IN HER SHOES 16 All About Her This month, we step into the shoes of Bayan Fikree from Areen Hospitality’s marketing team and get to know the woman behind the role. Bayan Fikree Scan to watch Describe yourself in three words. Hardworker, multitasker and resilient. Your daily mantra in one line. Just keep going. What’s your favourite part about working at Areen Hospitality? The job itself, the challenges I face and the opportunities I get. What motivates you to get to work everyday? My family, my colleagues, and obviously - the most obvious - the paycheck. Your biggest superpower as a mum? The ability to multitask. The patience I have, maybe. One thing motherhood taught you that no job could ever? Definitely patience. Life & Personality Early bird or night owl? Night owl, definitely. Your go-to stress buster? Watching series. Which one are you watching recently? Travellers on Netflix. A really good one! Fine dining or casual dining? A bit of both. And holidays: beach or mountains? Beach, definitely. Long flights or long drives? Long drives. Driver or passenger princess? Depends. If it’s a long drive, then passenger princess. Three things you always carry in your bag. Lipstick, perfume and my phone. A lesson you hope your child will learn from watching you work. Hard work pays off. Rank your preferred platforms: Instagram, Linkedin, Facebook, WhatsApp, Zoom. Instagram, Linkedin, WhatsApp, Facebook and Zoom. One thing the world must know about women working in Bahrain. We’re all hard workers. We love to work for the job and not because we need to. A piece of advice you live by and who is it from? From my mum, she always taught me that, “Make sure your work is a reflection of you.”
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