July 2017 | Issue 173 | BD1 / SR10 BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES Bahrain Edition VEGAN EXPLOSION Going veggie in the USA TRAVEL Holiday Fashion Pack a capsule wardrobe BEAUTY Beat hat hair with celeb stylist Asgar Saboo Julia Maria Tovey of AMH on her journey to the top Breaking the Glass Ceiling PARENTING Summer Camps to choose from 40 • Raw Candy Founders • Store Cupboard Staples • Where to Eat in Bahrain www.womanthismonth.com
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 2 JULY For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail [email protected]. The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at [email protected]. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. 6 Over To You 8 The Month in Focus SHOPPING 10 Pick of the Month: Arm Candy 12 Editor's Choice: Pack Drill FASHION 14 Trend: Mellow Yellow 16 Fashion Forward: Backstage Pass 18 Get The Look: Bon Voyage PEOPLE 21 Julia Maria Tovey: Breaking the Glass Ceiling 22 Sophie and Phoebe Middleton: Sweet and Raw 23 Sonia Nagi: A Guilt-Free Life FEATURE VEGAN LIFESTYLE 24-27 Facts, figures and dining and shopping tips BEAUTY 30 News: The latest products in the stores 32 Styling: Avoiding Hat Hair 35 Perfumes: Scents of Summer LIFESTYLE 36 Wellbeing: Ugly Beauty 42 Food: Chef's Special 44 Homes: Sustainable options 49 Travel: Veggie Delights 54 Books: Summer Sizzlers PARENTING 56 Advice: Dr Jinan Harith Darwish 57 Kids' Playground: Summer play 58 Opinion: Ouiam Charkani El Hassani 60 Summer Camps: 40 fun options 62 Tech Kids: Holiday activities 63 Horoscope: What to expect this month 64 In Her Shoes: Noor Bin Jamal 18 12 32 22 49 57
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 4 Welcome to the July issue in which we've come over all veggie and vegan. Having noticed a huge increase in the number of veggie and vegan restaurants around and also finding lots of my friends are adopting the lifestyle, I decided it was time to find out more. We've got facts and figures, a handy guide from well-known Facebook vegan Louise O'Loan on great places to find vegan food, and some top supermarket picks too. In the interview section we meet Sonia Nagi, who stopped eating meat after visiting a slaughter house at the age of 12, and the Middleton sisters, Phoebe and Sophie, who are determined to make healthier sweeties with raw chocolate. We also chat to Julia Maria Tovey, chief operating officer at the American Mission Hospital, about getting to the top in a trditionally male-dominated field. Sticking with the veggie/vegan theme, this month's wellbeing section takes a look at the ugly side of the beauty business and Behnaz Sanjana comes up with some homemade potions to help you kick the beauty counter habit. And in the travel section, we head to some of the USA's most veggie-friendly cities. Travel continues as a theme in the fashion section with great ideas for packing a capsule wardrobe and the editor's choice page this month features a round-up of the best luggage around - I am serioulsy lusting after the vintage Globe Trotter! Alongside our usual round-up of news from the worlds of fashion and beauty, look out for celebrity hairdresser tips on avoiding hat hair throughout the summer. And, if you have little ones, turn to the parenting section for our massive guide to the island's summer camps, with 40 options to choose from, as well as a selection of online courses which will also keep the youngsters entertained. However you're spending your summer, I hope it's a good one! chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY contributors APPLE SHARMA BEHNAZ SANJANA CHARLIE HOLDING PUJA TIWARI DR JINAN DARWISH RAPHAEL OUIAM CHARKANI EL HASSANI head of digital operations NEIL F VAZ print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics ROMEO SAN MIGUEL JAYATH TEKI media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media managers FARHEEN AHMED circulation and research ROANNA FERNANDES photography editor MONA ABDUL JABBAR photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press UNION PRESS, BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2017© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 Woman This Month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Bahrain office address Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: [email protected] website: www.womanthismonth.com Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing P. O. Box 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain July 2017, Issue 173 On the cover: Vegan Explosion July 2017 | Issue 173 | BD1 / SR10 BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES Bahrain Edition VEGAN EXPLOSION Going veggie in the USA TRAVEL Holiday Fashion Pack a capsule wardrobe BEAUTY Beat hat hair with celeb stylist Asgar Saboo Julia Maria Tovey of AMH on her journey to the top Breaking the Glass Ceiling PARENTING Summer Camps to choose from 40 • Raw Candy Founders • Store Cupboard Staples • Where to Eat in Bahrain www.womanthismonth.com EDITOR’S NOTE Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide The only women's magazine distributed with the GDN Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director Our month: Farheen had fun at the Dessange Spinathon thank you lunch and George and I chowed down at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay's Media Ghabga.
THE ATOMIC BAHRAIN THE ATOMIC BAHRAIN
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com news 6 # Trending What’s caught our eye in the news this month. # According to Dr Human Fatemi, medical director, IVI Fertility Middle East, the region has unique and specific factors leading to infertility – social, cultural and religious in nature – which are different from Western countries. The centre exclusively offers the Carrier Genetic Test (CGT) – a simple blood test that’s carried out when planning a family to prevent the risk of having a baby with genetic disorders. The CGT is highly recommended to all couples who are attempting a pregnancy by natural or IVF means. # The UAE consumes 18.4 tons of CO2 per capita per year – nearly four times higher than the global average. But the nation is moving away from crude solutions and swapping them for ones of the eco variety. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and UAE vice president, has announced a new energy strategy and USD163 billion of investment in alternative energy over the next three decades. These macro-level changes will gradually transform Dubai. Heads up, dining enthusiasts! We’re giving away two vouchers worth BD25 from Al Areen Palace & Spa’s Rimal and Saffron restaurants. Rimal Al Areen is an all-day dining restaurant offering guests a selection of gourmet wonders from its extensive international menu. It’s the perfect place to take a breather within the resort’s picturesque surroundings. Saffron Al Areen is a venue fit for royalty, with its majestic shades of gold and maroon accentuated with a high ceiling and charming Middle Eastern touches. The menu is inspired by Khaleeji fusion cuisine – a contemporary take on quintessential Bahraini dishes. Dining here, while enjoying the spectacular view of the grand outdoor pool, is guaranteed to be a memorable affair. The vouchers can be redeemed for either lunch or dinner. Check out our social media pages for a chance to win. On Facebook, the contest to win a Philips Airfryer by commenting recipes got the highest engagement. On Instagram, the post about staff of Alosra Supermarket giving away Iftar boxes received the greatest number of likes and reposts. Our twitter post of Sheraton Bahrain’s Iftar for elderly from the UCO Parents Care Centre had the highest likes and re-tweets. Your Shout I’m excited to know of the Organicare range of skincare and cosmetics. My skin is very sensitive and doesn’t react well to the harsh ingredients in conventional creams and lotions. Besides, the fact that there’s a woman spearheading organic personal care products, all which are made here in Bahrain, that makes me happier. Also, as Fehmina rightly points out, we consumers of this day and age need to ask questions about what’s in the bottles and boxes we buy. I’m going to gift myself some organic, vegan lipsticks and cheek stains to start off with. Diandra, Adliya. I really appreciate that your magazine is always tuned in with the social times. The June issue was filled with pointers for Ramadan – the best places to go to, what to wear and how to bring the essence of the blessed month in to our homes, as well as fresh ideas for a quick Eid getaway. I also liked that you encourage women to know their wheels and are giving safety on the roads its due. I highly recommend that lady drivers know the basics of their cars, so they don’t end up as absolute damsels in distress in the event of a breakdown. Thank you WTM for being truly local with a global appeal. Amal, Sanad. Follow us on: Instagram: @woman_this_month Twitter: @WomanThisMonthB Facebook: Woman This Month We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at [email protected] Best Reaction on Twitter Most Liked Post on Instagram Most Liked Post on Facebook Win, Win, Win!
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com news 8 July in Focus Beat Beach Music Festival at Coral Bay will see DJ Lil L headlining the party with her enthralling, lively sounds. Hailing from Scotland, she channelled her love and passion for hip hop music by trying her hand on the decks. Her popularity grew as she played alongside the likes of Tinie Tempah, Rita Ora and Jason Derulo. Lil L will be joining nearly 20 talented acts at the event on June 30. Tickets are priced at BD10 for ladies and BD15 for men. Call 66 331-366. Adventure Galore Registration for an excursion to the mystical Siwa Oasis in Egypt, being led by Bahraini tour guide Hessa Al Rumaihi,will open in July. Nature enthusiasts will be able to explore the lush desert environment while staying at an eco-lodge called Taziry. Also up for grabs is the historical full moon festival, views of natural salt lakes and sunsets in various breathtaking landscapes. The trip is set to take place in October this year. For more information, email: [email protected]. Big 30 Celebration Sneha, a school for kids with special needs run by the Indian Ladies Association, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with year-long festivities to mark the occasion. A family day has already been hosted for students and their families. After the summer break, children will be involved in three back to back events - the Sneha writing competition, sports day and an art exhibition. An assisted art painting exhibition is schedule for November, set to showcase and sell 80 paintings made by the children. The events will culminate with the annual day in December. Game Point The 37th National Sports Federation’s General Assembly made its mark and selected a new board of directors for the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) for the 2017-2020 term. Amongst those re-elected were Shaikha Hayat Al Khalifa, bagging votes from representatives of 28 sports federations to keep her post as board member. She is also the president of the Bahrain Table Tennis Association. Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and Ali Isa Eshaqi all retained their seats at the board for another four-year period. Tech Boost Tech-savvy women can rejoice as the path to achieving their start-up dreams is looking more attainable. The Central Bank of Bahrain announced the creation of a regulatory sandbox that will allow start-ups and financial tech firms to test and experiment their banking ideas without first going through the licensing process that can be lengthy and costly. Eligibility is based on innovation and customer benefit in addition to having the intention and the ability to deploy the service in Bahrain after the sandbox period ends. The Bahrain Summer Festival returns with an amazing line-up including the Thai Kings troupe, Latino musicians El Gato Negro, A Passage to Bollywood dance troupe, Palestinian singer Yacoub Shaheen and many others. Visit bahrainsummer.bh Summer Fun Hip Beats What’s on our radar this month?
SHOPPING | pick of the month Arm Candy Available at www.weill.com We just fell a little bit in love with the latest offerings from Weill. They’re so girly and pretty, how could anyone resist? And with their monochrome scheming they’re both smart enough for work and chic enough to complement virtually any outfit. The only problem is choosing which one! July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com 10
www.womanthismonth.com 11 July 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Women in Art for Peace The International Peace Institute Middle East & North Africa held an art exhibition entitled “Women in Art for Peace” at its premises at the Bahrain Financial Harbour. The exhibition was held under the patronage of HE Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, president of Bahrain Arts Society and the Minister of Interior of Bahrain. Noor, Nejib & Fatima Mona, Shaikha Marwa & Miranda Heba, Nevena & Eslam Reem, Yasmina & Elie Women in Art for Peace The International Peace Institute Middle East & North Africa held a reception for the exhibition “Women in Art for Peace” at The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain. Rehab & Shaikh Rashid Shaikha Hind & Iana Nevena & Maria Rekha & Nigel Abdul Hamid Hatim, Fareed & Osama
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com SHOPPING | editor's choice 12 Pack Drill Whether your summer break means a trip to far away places, a long weekend with the girls or a family vacation back to your homeland, if you’re anything like us here at WTM, the preparation and anticipation are half the fun. We’ve scanned the latest luggage offerings to make sure you’re prepared for whatever the journey throws at you. Pratical and Pretty Large suitcase with matching tote, Cath Kidston 16 686-209. Furry Friends Fun pug case cover, For U aliexpress.com Prepare for Takeoff K Jet weekender, Karl Lagerfeld 17 112-715. Fly With Karl Funky passport holder, Karl Lagerfeld 17 112-715. Space Saver Foldable tote, tumi.com Serious Trekking 65l Panther backpack, karrimor.com Perfect Print Heritage backpack, Herschel Athlete’s Co 16 686-216. Abstract Concept Patterned case and backpack, tumi.com Tag a Friend Cheeky luggage labels, aliexpress.com Classically Gorgeous Centenary Trolley case, globetrotter.com Ultimate Traveller American Tourister case, Samsonite 17 179-657.
www.womanthismonth.com 13 July 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Ramadan Iftar The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain hosted guests at its Al Khayma Ramadan tent for Iftar. Ahmed, Yasser, Ghizlane, Haili, Pie, Pricilla, Avi, Ahsan & Carol Nathelie & Helene Sukaina, Nawa & Fatima Lulwa & Marwa Nasser & Samira Florence & Ghizlane Dessange Lunch Al Ghalia Co hosted a Dessange Spinathon thank you lunch at Mezzaluna Restaurant. Dawn, Ahmed & Suzanne Ezra, Suzanne, Lelani & Dawn Michel & Hana Mahmood & Hayley Alison & Farheen
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | trend 14 This bright hue might not seem the easiest colour to wear and only the bravest will go head-to-toe buttercup, but there’s no doubt that a dash of yellow truly spells summer. MELLOW YELLOW ba&sh Gucci WEAR IT YOUR WAY If you decide to go for a dress or skirt and top combo, add in dark accessories to tone it down. Or simply give a nod to the trend by pairing a sunny top with jeans and funky boots. To adapt the look for the office, look out for stripes with a hint of yellow or get your daily dose of buttermilk with shades, shoes or bag – but not all three at once! Off-the-shoulder gypsy top, Weill weill.com Black framed sunglasses, Gucci 17 131-218. Floral dress, MICHAEL Michael Kors 17 178-630. Gold flats, Nine West 17 179-260. Sunshine yellow bag, Michael Kors 17 178-630. Yellow zip-front skirt, Stradivarius 17 172-306. Floral heals, Quiz 17 178-074. One-shoulder floral top, Stradivarius 17 172-306. Scallop print swimsuit, Maiden Selfridges Exclusive Selfridges.com Custard overdress, Mango 17 179-718. Striped tee, Scotch & Soda scotch-soda.com One-shoulder crop top, Splash 38 819-328.
www.womanthismonth.com 15 July 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Ramadan Tent Sofitel Bahrain hosted a VIP dinner at its Layali Al Zallaq Ramadan Tent. A PLACE TO BE, RELAX AND ENJOY. A DINING EXPERIENCE THAT TRULY IMPRESSES. Gourmet Lounge Your Friendly Neibourhood Lounge OPEN NOW @ AMWAJ Habiba, Muna, Ebtisam & Ghezlan Thess, Bastien, Clariss & Shien Said, Khalid, Jameel & Dani Nick, Sylvia, Rhys & Ali Charmaine & Dilip Dalila
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | fashion forward 16 WAR ON WASTE Veteran British designer Dame Vivienne Westwood has urged people to buy fewer clothes to help protect the environment. Speaking to the BBC’s Newsbeat backstage at her recent London Fashion Week Men’s show, she said: “My message is ‘buy less, choose well, make it last’.” Her circus-themed collection was only the second time she has shown at the men’s event and featured recycled plastic bottles as shoes and aluminium cans pinned to tights, as a campaign against fashion waste. Adding: “It’s [about] quality, not quantity, not landfill," the punk-era icon said a change in shopping habits would allow designers to make more beautiful clothes. Digital giant Google has partnered with 180 institutions, schools and archives around the world for a new online project focusing on the history of fashion. We Wear Culture, which launched on the Google Arts & Culture website and mobile apps, looks at “how fashion is stitched into the fabric of our societies”. There are more than 450 exhibitions and tours of important fashion and decorative art collections on the platform, from the story of the Silk Road, told through objects from the China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou, to Elsa Schiaparelli’s relationship with Surrealism, related through pieces from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. THE CAT’S WHISKERS We all know that Kaiser Karl is besotted with a certain feline. Now, along with famed toymaker Steiff, known for its gorgeous teddy bears, he has announced the introduction of a limited-edition plush toy inspired by Choupette. The cuddly cat mimics the appearance of the real-life feline, with fluffy white fur, big blue eyes and even a magnetic mouse companion. Just 2,000 pieces have been produced worldwide and are available exclusively at Karl Lagerfeld stores and karl.com. Later they’ll be on offer at Steiff stores, Steiff.com and through select fashion and toy retailers. KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY Model and reality TV star Kendall Jenner joins brotherin-law Kanye West as the newest brand ambassador for sportswear giant Adidas. With an Instagram following topping 80 million, the 21-year-old used the social media platform to share the news. In her post she’s wearing a casual Adidas tracksuit paired with brand sneakers for a video which shows her driving in a golf cart past a wall featuring the words "Welcome To The Family!”. BACKSTAGE PASS Our take on what’s cool, trending and fashionable Googling Fashion
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 17 Reputed as a maker of men's watches that are both unusual and elegant, deLaCour has decided to put its unique sensitivity and sensuality into the creation of a timepiece that is ultra feminine and designed exclusively for women. The Passion is inspired by women, their attitude and strong character. It is the complete opposite of minimalist with a marriage of two materials: white gold for its main external visible case, and titanium for the inner case. The combination of diamonds consists of 13 carats and lends its subtlety to the diamond-paved edges. The timepieces are named Passion Forever (with heart-shaped diamonds), Passion Allure (with square diamonds) and Passion Sparkle (with pear-shaped diamonds). Michael Kors has announced Jourdan Dunn as the latest face of its street style campaign Michael Kors The Walk. The British model’s It bag of choice for the campaign is the Mercer Dome Satchel, worn in an upbeat shade of sunflower yellow along with the best of summer’s MICHAEL Michael Kors ready-to-wear and accessories. In a nod to the brand’s array of bag customisation options, Jourdan brought playful personality to her Mercer with everything from gold-tone keychains and a floral appliqué handbag strap to a scarf tied around the handle of the satchel. The new campaign is the fourth instalment in an ongoing series, with new style personalities joining Michael Kors The Walk each season to spotlight key handbags and ready-to-wear. A profile of Jourdan will also run on the brand’s editorial platform, DestinationKors.com. Jourdan Walks One for the Girls Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover hosted a Gurgaon celebration for the Hidd Rehabilitation Centre for Special Needs and UCO Parent Care Centre at its showroom. Van Cleef & Arpels officially unveiled its Frivole Collection at its boutique in Moda Mall. The US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, Aimee Cutrona, hosted a Ghabga for ladies to celebrate Ramadan and the friendship between Bahrain and the United States. Jeans for Refugees by Johny Dar was exhibited at Moda Mall Bahrain and sold to raise funds for the International Rescue Committee. Around Town
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | get the look 18 As our thoughts turn to vacations, the nightmare of packing raises its ugly head. Escape the spectre of mismatched separates and bulging suitcases with our capsule wardrobe suggestions. BON VOYAGE Sightseeing Keeping the main elements of your outfit neutral allows you to mix and match with other items from the collection. Go for a show-stopping top and comfy flats – a touch of metallic dresses up the look and will also look good with virtually anything. Add a large tote for all those interesting holiday shopping finds that you just can’t leave behind. Sarah-Paulson Wide-leg pleated pants, Weill weill.com Classic Aviator sunglasses, Gucci 17 131-218. Floppy hat, New Look 17 179-406. Alta peasant top Alice and Olivia aliceandolivia.com Tan Rivington Stud tote, Michael Kors 17 178-630. Metallic flat sandal, Max 17 179-374.
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 FASHION | get the look 19 Beach Party With our climate, nailing this look is as important here at home as it is on your travels. Choose swimwear that can double up as a top over your sightseeing trousers and make sure your bikini top offers good support. This gorgeous H&M frock with do double duty as a beach dress and for days out, as will any pretty slip. Pack shorts and top that will mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe and keep the metallic touch going with a pair of sliders – easy to slip off when you head for the water. Dinner and Dancing Even if you see holiday time as an opportunity to live in shorts and flipflops, no girl should be without at least one outfit that will take her to a smart restaurant followed by a spin round the dance floor. Choose a classic shift dress, shortish to show off tanned pins (that you’ve, of course, been working on for months). Classic heels and a fun bag, that won’t take up much space in your suitcase, can, once again, be added to other elements of this wardrobe collection to give additional funky looks. Make sure to take a neutral-coloured wrap; hopefully you won’t need it but nights can get chilly after a day on the beach. Patterned swimsuit, Bershka 17 172-303. Catelyn stud shoes, Dune London 16 686-215. Black and tan shift dress, Weill weill.com Mini bag, Fendi at Saks Fifth Avenue 17 172-000. Statement earrings, Parfois 17 178-054. Two-tone necklace, Parfois 17 178-054. Pale, patterned wrap, Parfois 17 178-054. Cold shoulder, ruffled dress, H&M 17 110-350. Tan tie-waist shorts, H&M 17 110-350. Crochet crop top, H&M 17 110-350. Metallic sliders, Shoe Express 17 178-959. Floral slip dress, Koton 17 179-015. Pompom beach bag, M&S 17 211-309. Striped bikini, H&M 17 110-350. Sheer stars swimsuit, Zoe Karssen Selfridges Exclusive Selfridges.com
20 July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Renovation Project The Crowne Plaza Bahrain held a demolition party to mark its 2017 renovation project at its premises. Management and staff at the party Ahmed, Andy, Vivki & Ebrahim Kooheji Jan, Priya & Gilles Rasool Abdulla Crowne Plaza Bahrain Iftar The Crowne Plaza Bahrain held a media Iftar at La Mosaique. Priya, Likhiya, Florissa & Randa Sam & Mai Anany & Aanchal Heike Arif & Rajeev Marlon & Michelle
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 PEOPLE | interview 21 Julia Tovey started her career in London’s teaching hospitals, including at the well-known Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. She went on to further study and specialise in neonatal intensive care and cardiothoracic nursing, which primarily deals with the high-level care required for those on by-pass machines. Having completed the neonatal-paediatric flight training programme in Houston, Texas, covering the transportation of sick children by air, she worked with Saudi Aramco’s hospital to set up its flight team – a first for the GCC – spending 15 years there before moving to Bahrain. In the interim, Julia earned a Master’s degree in business administration, underwent a risk manager’s course from Florida University as well as completing a course on the management of healthcare delivery at Harvard University. Along with an advanced flight physiology course at the Royal Airforce in Cranfield, UK, she has a total of 14 years of training under her belt. She says: “I felt I had something to give to the nursing profession, knowing in my heart that I wanted to work with children. The joy you feel when tiny babies, who are just starting out with life, are able to go home, is immeasurable.” Her extensive training laid the groundwork for her to reach the pinnacle she has attained today. As COO of American Mission Hospital (AMH) for the past seven years, she says: “Nine divisions, including support services, nursing, quality control, marketing and the community department, report directly to me. I also oversee the operations of the ambulatory care centres of AMH in Riffa, Saar and Amwaj. Her journey has brought her to a momentous achievement – becoming the first woman COO in the AMH’s 120-year history. She says: “It makes me proud that I can make a difference here and happy that the organisation and the CEO have the trust in me, thanks to me being very quality driven. I believe every patient should have access to high quality, affordable healthcare in a safe and risk-free environment.” Did she encounter resistance on assuming this role? “Of course! People thought: one; Chief operating officer (COO) of American Mission Hospital, Julia Maria Tovey thrives on a challenge. She chats to Behnaz Sanjana about her journey to the coveted top table in a traditionally male bastion. Breaking the Glass Ceiling Julia Maria Tovey she’s a nurse, and two; she’s a woman! There had always been a man in this seat. I knew I was under the microscope and my success was being speculated upon. Trying to implement change is always a challenge; that’s human nature. But it’s what keeps me going. Also, my nursing background gives me a broader spectrum of understanding how things work right at the frontline”. Julia remembers the clinical part of nursing as her first love. She says: “After 30 years in healthcare, I felt I’ve got so much to share, give back and contribute. AMH is a not-forprofit organsaition and I feel very passionate about doing good for the community in Bahrain.” This year, Julia and her community outreach team are focusing on children with special needs. “A hospital can be an unfamiliar environment for kids with autism or Down’s Syndrome,” she explains. “So rather than them coming to us, we take the care to them and their families. We also render our honorary services to the many labour camps in the country.” Another area she has driven forward is subsidising medical services for the less welloff. She says: “Our vision is to be the best nongovernment hospital providing affordable healthcare for everybody. A significant portion of our revenue goes towards helping patients who can’t afford to pay for treatment. AMH runs a free clinic for labourers every Friday. Over four years, we’ve provided free care to nearly 4,000 patients.” She has also been instrumental in bringing about positive change in the hospital’s operations – something she puts down to her people skills and perseverance. Her message to aspiring young women is: “If you’re passionate about what you do, then just go for your goals. Working your way from the bottom up helps you to make better executive decisions on a managerial level. There will be obstacles along the way, but don’t ever give up at the first hurdle.” g
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | interview 22 Raw chocolate might sound as if you’re heading to the forest and munching on cacao beans but, in fact, it describes a delicious product that’s made from cold-pressed cacao butter and beans that have not been heated above 45 degrees. This process helps preserve the cacao’s natural nutrients and it’s where the sisters’ products will differ from the mass-produced offerings readily available in the market. Phoebe explains: “The average chocolate bar is about 20 per cent cocoa [heat-treated cacao] and is half sugar. Using the heating process helps with tempering the chocolate so it stays more solid but, once heat is added, it reduces the amount of nutrients.” Having long been interested in clean eating, the sisters studied raw nutrition at the famed Matthew Kenney Culinary in Los Angeles. But Phoebe adds: “I didn’t do chocolate there; that really has been a process of trial and error. I wanted to be able to live this lifestyle but without giving up the things I love!” The sisters launched Raw Candy by selling their products at markets, Words Bookstore Café, Trousseau and Roots Cafe but, such has been the positive response, they’re now setting up their own shop and café, due to open in Seef in the next couple of months. And it sounds like a treat for sweetie lovers with Sophie saying: “The menu will be chocolate, pralines and raw versions of old trashy candy like peanut butter cups, coconut bars and cookie dough. We’ll also have things like turmeric latte using nut milks and butters, granola, cakes and salted caramel – we think of it as sugar for the cool kids!” The journey has been what Sophie describes as a “labour of love” with all the recipes If you think being vegan means giving up your favourite chocolate hit, think again. Sisters Phoebe and Sophie Middleton, of Raw Candy, have plans to serve the island’s healthy-eating chocoholics. Sweet and Raw developed by the sisters and the products all handmade. She says: “We don’t like stuff to sit in packets so it’s all fresh ingredients made in small batches. Working with raw ingredients is challenging but very worthwhile.” Phoebe adds: “It involves things like soaking buckwheat then sprouting it and dehydrating – that means you’ve got a three-day process before you’ve got a useable ingredient, so it is quite labour intensive and time consuming. We don’t use white or brown sugar, only low GI coconut sugar because it’s raw and unprocessed – which means you don’t get the ‘sugar crash’. And there are no chemicals used in any of our products.” “These products are also great for people who have allergies,” says Sophie. “They’re suitable for those with gluten intolerance and, of course, there’s no dairy. They’re also organic and you can be guaranteed that what you’re eating hasn’t sat in a pot for weeks at a time.” And an indication of the sisters’ passion comes in the confession that they were approached by a larger company to supply their brand but turned down the offer. “We want to maintain the handmade, boutique feel,” says Phoebe, with Sophie adding: “We don’t want to get greedy and flood the market and spoil it. Because the chocolate is so fragile, you have to be very careful and it has to be right.” g For news of the opening follow @raw.candy on Instagram. Sophie and Phoebe Middleton
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 PEOPLE | interview 23 How long have you been vegan? I’ve been vegetarian since childhood. I became vegan around seven years ago. What made you decide to adopt this lifestyle? When I was 12 I went to the slaughterhouse in India with my father. There I saw a hen being killed. That was very traumatising and I could not see any meat as food again. Over the past few years, as I entered into the health and fitness profession, the benefits of a plant-based diet became obvious. Have you found it difficult in Bahrain? Being vegetarian is relatively easy. My husband and I decided to go vegan when we were living in Dubai. It was initially difficult because we were eating out a lot and were always looking for specifically vegan options. Eventually we found a large vegan community there and quite a variety of vegan products. Bahrain has a lot less options, especially when it comes to grocery shopping ,as well as eating out for vegans. Also there is a lot less awareness about veganism here. Avoiding dairy is the toughest. We cook all our meals now and I have a lot of fun experimenting with vegan recipes. Fortunately the vegan awareness here is growing and I can see new products and menu items popping up regularly. Sonia Nagi, coach at The Healthy Conscience, tells us about her vegan journey. A Guilt-Free Lifestyle Sonia Nagi Are there any particular foodstuffs you particularly enjoy or would recommend? I realised that there is a whole universe of vegan recipes out there. I believe in eating as diversely as possible. Half of my daily nutrition comes from fruits and raw salads. Introducing raw foods into our diets seems to be the key to unlock our health’s potential. Focusing on plant-based foods revealed a lot of things that we were missing, like sprouts, seeds, raw oils, exotic fruits and ancient grains. Quinoa, tofu, chickpeas, kidney beans and soya protein are some of our staples. Is your diet part of an overall lifestyle? What other things do you do? My husband, who is from Bahrain, and I run our private coaching business called The Healthy Conscience where we teach nutrition, yoga, fitness, and corrective exercise. I teach yoga and provide yoga therapy, including pre-natal and post-natal yoga. I decided to quit my job as cabin crew and learn yoga. I wanted to work on my health. As I progressed in my teacher training, the benefits of being vegan became clearer. My intention is to lead a life that does the least harm to others. This involves being conscious about the impact of all my actions. We try to use eco-friendly products, avoid plastics, reuse and repair as much as we can, reduce consumption by sharing and borrowing rather than buying new, growing food in our garden, we don’t kill insects or use leather. It’s about accepting the fact that we are completely dependent on nature and all its creatures must be respected Are your family supportive? My husband is vegan as well and is a strong advocate of a cruelty-free lifestyle. My parents and siblings live in India and have always been supportive of anything I do. They are all vegetarians now. They follow my advice keenly and are always doing their best to improve their health. Anything else you would like to add? We are at very critical point as far as the future of our health and the health of our planet is concerned. Helping each other become better through awareness and education must be our collective responsibility.
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FEATURE | vegan lifestyle 24 The study Vegetarianism in America found that 3.2 per cent of US adults, or 7.3 million people, follow a vegetarian-based diet. Of those around one million are vegan, avoiding all animal products. In the UK a study carried out last year for the Vegan Society and Vegan Life magazine found that the number of people choosing a plant-based diet had grown by 360 per cent over 10 years! While the Middle East does not boast quite those impressive statistics, the numbers are most definitely growing. And, while vegetarianism and veganism have traditionally been associated with animal welfare issues, many of those now opting to cut out meat cite the stated health benefits as their inspiration for change. Advocates of plant-based eating say vegans typically have lower levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, a lower body mass index and reduced risk of death from heart disease and cancer. That their diets often include items such as avocados, nuts and seeds is another plus. Concern for the environment is another driving factor. Around 30 per cent of the Earth’s land surface is used for rearing farm animals and livestock production is responsible for 70 per cent of the Over the past few years the number of people choosing to eat a meat-free or fully vegan diet has increased dramatically. We take a look at the numbers and the facts. VEGAN EXPLOSION Amazon deforestation in Latin America, where rainforest has been cleared to create new pastures. For those wanting to adopt a greener and cleaner lifestyle, the kitchen cupboard is the place to start. Invaluable resource thekitchn.com gives a helpful list of staples: Beans – A variety of dried and canned as well as lentils and chickpeas. Grains – Such as quinoa, spelt and bulgur to add texture and flavour. Tempeh – A soy protein source that keeps well in the fridge. Tofu – Use it for baking, frying and in soups and stir-fries. Nuts – Whole or chopped for use in salads and grain dishes. Dried fruits – Raisins, apricots and dates for snacking and adding to stews and greens Vegetable stock – Store-bought or made from scratch and frozen. Nutritional yeast – Useful for sauces and as a coating. Miso – Both light and dark for soup and salad dressing. Tahini – Add to sauces and dips. Dried sea vegetables – seaweed and nori to use with rice, kelp and kombu to add flavour to broths. Coconut oil – Super-versatile from roasting veggies to making rich curries. Maple syrup – Tasty as a natural sweetener. Ground flax seeds – Fibre-filled and nutritious and with a little water can work as an egg substitute. Of course there’s a huge range of recipes available online and some great books too. A couple of our favourites are the Thug Kitchen Cookbook (also check out their Instagram) and Kristy Turner’s But I Could Never Go Vegan! But you can also check out local vegan pages on Facebook — such as Vegan & Vegan Curious in Bahrain, One Arab Vegan and The Healthy Conscience — for great food and lifestyle ideas and information on where to find veggie and vegan products in the Kingdom.
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 25 Try This We just visited Plant Café in Hamala – it’s lush! Awwww UK beef farmer Jay Wilde sent his herd to a sanctuary when he turned vegetarian and couldn’t bear to see them killed. And There’s More Vegans and many vegetarians make conscious lifestyle choices with regard to animal welfare in their cosmetics, household products and even the clothing they wear. Check out herbivoreclothing.com for funky style options and thevegansociety.com for details of outlets, designers and suppliers. For cruelty-free cosmetics, Bahrain has its own local brands — Organicare and Green Bar — and you can find a comprehensive list of cosmetic and household products which are not tested on animals at peta.org (but watch out for parent companies which may have different policies). And for those who want to implement the lifestyle in their homes, Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) also has a list of ethical décor options. Famous Vegans Jennifer Lopez The actress, singer and mum of twins says going vegan has upped her energy levels, claiming: “It's basically no dairy, no meat, everything is just plant-based and just from the ground. I love that I'm eating more greens. It makes you feel so much better.” And, at 47, we really can’t argue! Moby Dance musician Moby has long been vocal about his vegan beliefs, even naming his 1996 album Animal Rights and opening a vegan café called TeaNY in New York. He says: "Veganism should be a happy thing, not a miserable one. And we shouldn't make people feel bad or guilty for their lifestyle choices, even if they reject veganism.” Olivia Wilde This actress is so dedicated to the cause that she launched her own website, WildeThings.org to promote the vegan lifestyle. Alicia Silverstone The campaigner and actress has her own vegan and eco-friendly beauty line. She says: “Once I went vegan, I lost the weight I wanted to lose, my nails were stronger, and my skin was glowing. I feel great and I look better now than I did 11 years ago.” As if health benefits, animal welfare and saving the planet weren’t good enough reasons to swear off meat, these famous faces credit their diet with all manner of benefits and show you’d be in good company.
July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com showcase 26 If you have been contemplating a healthier lifestyle that involves giving your kitchen a cruelty-free makeover, eminent department store Lulu Hypermarket, situated in Galleria Mall, Zinj, is your go-to shopping destination. This branch in particular focuses on health-food brands and is chock-full of vegan and vegetarian fare imported from all over the world, making it a favourite with followers of meat-free and glutenfree diets. A plethora of low-carb pita bread in flavours such as sundried tomato, garden veggie, honey wheat and multi grain decorates one of the aisles, making it a great alternative for khubbus or regular flatbreads. Vegetarian favourites like tofu, cottage cheese, meatless sausages, steaks and burger patties can be bought from the freezer section. Ditch processed and sugary cereals for wholesome grains like brown rice, spelt and buckwheat puffs. Exotic options such as blueberry cinnamon flax and pumpkin granola are bound to jazz up your breakfast. Get fit the right way by opting for halal whey protein and substituting regular butter with nut butters to eliminate saturated fats – a great way of lowering cholesterol. Brands such as Biona dominate the shelves of Lulu as it is reputed for its organic butters, oils, vinegars and syrups. Oils like avocado, soy, pumpkin and coconut are great variations for cooking and baking – also available from the same brand name. Super grains pack fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals WTM combs the aisles of this popular shoppers’ paradise to discover all its vegetarian and vegan treasures. LULU GREENER, CLEANER GROCERIES along with carbohydrates to provide complete nutrition. Bob’s Red Mill offers these and other choice baking supplies. Stock up on chia for smoothies, quinoa for salads and steel-cut oats for a quick pick-me-up. Indulge in delectable pasta without the guilt and extra pounds by buying a pack made from corn and quinoa, whole wheat or rice flour. Herbs, spices and tea cover another big food products and electronics, covering daily household needs from toiletries and kitchenware to stationery. The first floor has departments selling electronics, computer systems, mobiles, textiles, footwear and many other essentials. Various promotional offers throughout the year mean shoppers get good value every time. Call 17 172-727. aisle, leaving you spoilt for choice. You will also find stacks of dairyfree milk made from almonds, black rice and soy, great for people trying to lose weight as it contains half the calories found in cow’s milk. Freeze-dried fruits, mixed nuts and root vegetable crisps make for scrumptious, low-calorie snacks. A large counter with a pickand-mix salad section is available throughout the day along with freshly squeezed juices. Readycooked food ranging from Indian, Arabic and Southeast Asian to continental is cooked fresh on a daily basis and available to buy seven days a week. Particular emphasis is placed on fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat and the delicatessen. Bread, muffins and birthday cakes are up for grabs in the bakery. Lulu Hypermarket also has a colossal selection of non-
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 FEATURE | vegan lifestyle 27 Going out to eat? You may like to consider this – give notice. If you know you’re going to a restaurant give them a call – this lets the chef know ahead of time that you are coming, so if they want to prepare something special, they have the time to do so. Didn’t call ahead? When you walk into the restaurant put on a friendly smile and courteous manner then ask the staff if they have a vegan option or are able to alter the menu items to become vegan. Not everyone understands what vegan is, so if they don’t know, help them out by politely telling them what you don’t eat. Most folks are curious about veganism – I’ve had many a chat with a server who genuinely wanted to know more. This not only helps them get your meal right but also gives them a greater understanding of how to serve the next vegan customer. There are many fine places to eat vegan in Bahrain. Here’s a small sample of some of the places I and my friends frequent. Louise O’Loan is the founder of the Facebook group Vegan and Vegan Curious in Bahrain, which has more than 700 members. Vegetarian since the age of 17, she progressed to a vegan diet many years ago. She shares her tips for a great vegan dining experience and recommends some of her favourite spots. YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE VEGAN – BUT IT HELPS! Plant-based food can be delicious Louise tucking into a vegan cake Name Number Find them Café Amsterdam 17 007-404 Road No 3801, Adliya An entire section of the menu is dedicated to vegan selections. It’s easy to bring your non-vegan mates along too, so everyone is happy. Anand Bhavan 17 227-362 Manama Souq Cheap and cheerful, be sure to stipulate no dairy. Emma Wash 17 309-030 Hamala and Budaiya Road We bring our own take away containers for pick up to lessen the use of plastic. The Budaiya branch is used to this now. Hopscotch 17 691-124 Rd No 3371, Saar Great Buddha bowl and they are also happy to veganise other menu items. Masso 17 721-061 Palace Boutique Hotel Make it easy with small changes to the pasta and risotto menu. Also, all sides can be cooked in water or oil and the taste is still amazing. Re Asian Cuisine 17 115-000 Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, 50th Floor According to chef Stefano more exciting vegan menus will soon be rolled out in all areas of the hotel. Roots Cafe 17 211-561 2253B Wali Al Ahd Highway, Hamala 1014 Dana and her team are super happy to help you out with vegan selections and be sure to ask for their milk alternatives for your hot cup of tea or coffee. Swagat 17 225-137 Manama Souq Budget delights to fill your belly whilst taking a tour of the souq. The Orangery 17 369-696 Palace Boutique Hotel CAKE - please try the selection of vegan desserts. Too pretty to eat but we managed it! Villa Mama’s 17 305-031 Saar, opposite Saar Cinema Always a staple go to for a variety of vegan meals. Chef Theo is happy to come and chat about what you would like to see on the menu in future and to get feedback – pardon the pun – on the current dishes.
28 July 2017 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Media Ghabga Four Seasons Bahrain Bay hosted a Ghabga for the media at its premises. Khalil, Ameera, Richard & Barakat Jager & Dipak Youlia & Tulin Ravnit Kat, Liz, Richard, George & Anu Royal Charity Iftar The Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, in collaboration with the Royal Charity Organization, hosted an Iftar at the hotel’s Ramadan tent. Mariam, Veronika, Amira, & Reem Yousif, Amira, Alaa & Navas Redha & Dima Mariam Mahmood Omar
www.womanthismonth.com 29 July 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Car Launch YK Almoayyed & Sons launched the new Infiniti Q60 at its showroom in Sitra. Khalil, Mazen Alumran, Mohammed Almoayyed & Salwa Almoayyed Peter, Salwa Almoayyed, Mazen Alumran, Yousif & Jawahra Sreekumar & Ranjith Khalil, Mazen Alumran & Hassan
www.womanthismonth.com July 2017 30 Make Up For Ever Brow Show. The brand has relaunched its Brow Show, introducing Brow Gel, the tinted groomer, and Brow Pencil, the precision brow sculptor. Whether you simply want to fill in, redefine or transform, the Brow Show delivers a range of tools with a diversity of textures and shades that help design your brows. Different products work with different styles and provide your desired look – from natural to sophisticated, from subtle to bold. Available at leading retailers. Lancôme Summer Swing. This summer, Lancôme’s Summer Swing collection is making eyes electric to bring out the subtly sculpted contours of nude complexions. Channelling the metallic trend and gentleness of soft draping and contouring, it introduces two star products in limited editions: Le Métallique, a liquid eyeshadow, and Belle de Teint Bronzer & Blush. The accent is on hot and zingy colours, to suit the season! Powderings of gold and bronze are applied to the skin in nude shades, while eyes get the ultra-electric treatment. Available at leading retailers. BEAUTY | news Enjoy new paints and potions to keep your body and face ever gorgeous as the weather heats up Guerlain Terra Chic Tropic. The new limited-edition Terracotta Chic Tropic invites you to embrace gold and extravagance. Wallpaper-inspired stylised palm trees decorate the lid of a compact containing the brand’s legendary terracotta powder in a generously oversized format for face and décolleté. Sprayed with gold and light, Terracotta’s bronzing shade is accompanied by coral to illuminate the complexion and bring out the cheekbones. The scent of the powder is irresistible – an exquisite blend of ylangylang, orange blossom, vanilla, tonka bean and white musk notes. Available at leading retailers. Clarins Tender Moments Skin Illusion Blush. The success of Skin Illusion Foundation is now available in a blush which blends perfectly over the skin and promotes a soft, silky feel. Colour results look even and very natural. Red algae extract helps promote skin radiance, enhancing the cheeks and allowing you to look fresh and revitalised giving pretty, healthy-looking skin and soft, comfortable cheeks. The range also includes the Lovely Lip Balm. Available at leading retailers. Tom Ford Seasonal Colour Collection. A range of new products has been revealed for summer 2017 that illuminate, sculpt and contour to help transform the look of the face. Shade and Illuminate Cheeks comes in two vibrant yet sheer colour palettes. The pearlescent highlighting shade brightens and draws light to skin, to amplify cheekbones and lift the face, while the sheer vibrant blush tone deepens and defines for the perfect flush or contour. The range also includes Shade and Illuminate Lips. Available at leading retailers. Bobbi Brown Art Stick Liquid Lip. Introducing Bobbi’s art supply-inspired, modern take on liquid lipstick. A creamy and super-pigmented formula with a semi-matte finish, this squeezable colour stick offers a bold, full coverage look with a luxurious, ultra-lightweight feel. The moisturising formula conditions lips for comfortable, longlasting wear that’s available in 16 nude, bright and bold shades such as Honey Bare and Hot Tangerine. Available at Bobbi Brown.
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