July 2025 | Issue 264 Bahrain's Lifestyle Guide for HER BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES www.womanthismonth.com NOMINATE NOW! WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2025 www.womanoftheyearawards.com IN HER SHOES Nidhi Jain, VLCC Chocolate & Health Dr. Tejender Sarna Bridging Cultures Meghan Bondy Summer Brain Drain Dr. Fifi Kiwan Conversation on Botox Dr. Paulo at ALKEM
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womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 WOTYA 2025 3 NOMINATE NOW! Visit womanoftheyearawards.com Fill out the form Submit! Click NOMINATE NOW Step 1: Step 3: Step 4: Step 2: YOUR VOTE, THEIR MOMENT TO SHINE! www.womanoftheyearawards.com
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 INTERVIEW 4 Ms. Bondy, how has your experience living in Bahrain shaped your perception of the country and its culture? Living in Bahrain has been such a special experience for me and my family. This is actually our second time calling Bahrain home – the first was 20 years ago when our two children were young, arriving from Egypt at ages six and nine. From the very beginning, we were struck by how calm and welcoming life in Bahrain felt. It truly felt like ‘a big hug’ – the people and culture immediately made us feel at ease. I had the privilege of working at the Embassy as the Community Liaison Officer, which deepened my appreciation for the Bahraini community and our American community serving at the Embassy. Coming back again in 2022, I enjoyed rekindling old friendships. Bahrain’s island culture both historically and now offers a place for visitors and residents to rest and feel welcomed. Being from the Midwest in the United States, I often say that Bahrain is the Midwest of the Gulf – warm, friendly, community-oriented and deeply hospitable. How do you contribute to strengthening ties between the United States and Bahrain on a community level? I’ve always believed that building community happens best when people share experiences together, especially through music, art and food. We’ve loved hosting events that bring Americans and Bahrainis together – whether it’s a lively jazz concert like when our favourite New Orleans band, the Brass-a-Holics, visited in 2023, and celebrating local artists of all kinds. At all these events, food has played a central role in creating that welcoming atmosphere. I’ve enjoyed crafting menus that highlight American favourites like barbecue, cornbread and apple pie, alongside local Bahraini dishes such as Hamour, Muhammar, Balaleet and Samboosa. It’s amazing how a shared table can open doors to conversations, laughter and new friendships. Could you tell us about any charitable, cultural or educational initiatives you have supported or participated in during your time here? One of the most meaningful experiences has been participating in the Child and Mother’s Bazaar – a joyful celebration of cultural exchange held under the auspices of Her Highness Shaikha Lulwa bint Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and organised by the Children & Mothers Welfare Society. The bazaar brings together the diplomatic corps and the wider community here in Bahrain, and the proceeds of the bazaar sales go directly to supporting hundreds of children and widows across the country. It’s been truly inspiring to see the compassion and generosity of everyone involved, with leadership from Bahraini women, and the participation of the entire diplomatic community. I am particularly grateful for the generous donations of American companies, who demonstrate civic spirits by allowing us to sell their products, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Bahraini civil society organisations. As a long-time friend of Bahrain, Ms. Meghan Bondy shares insights into her experiences, community engagement, and the cultural bridges she helps build as the US Ambassador’s spouse. Bridging Cultures
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 INTERVIEW 5 Have you collaborated with local organisations or other diplomatic spouses on programmes that support women, families or youth? It’s wonderful to volunteer with the American Women’s Association (AWA), which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The AWA is a dynamic group of women from all over the world dedicated to social, cultural and charitable initiatives. Together, we support more than 30 local nonprofit organisations every year, from hosting fundraising events to volunteering at homes and community centres across the island. Additionally, the AWA represents the best of Bahraini-American partnership and it serves as a platform for building friendships and cultural opportunity. Through the AWA, I have had the opportunity to meet with and get to know so many Bahrainis. These conversations have enriched my understanding of this country, and I am very grateful for my friends at the AWA for giving me that chance. What are some of the most meaningful interactions or experiences you’ve had with Bahraini communities? During Ramadan, I loved hosting the Ladies Majlis. This event has been an incredible success because it puts women at the heart of the conversation. We showcased women-owned businesses for catering, offering dishes like stuffed vine leaves and traditional drinks. We also included a henna artist and a painting station, which brought a vibrant artistic energy to the evening. Ramadan itself is such a beautiful time to understand fasting, community and the spirit of giving. By sharing these moments together, we create a space for the connection between the American and Bahraini communities to grow even stronger. Hosting this event has truly been among the most meaningful activities I have done during my time in Bahrain. As someone living in a diplomatic household, what message would you offer to American families considering a move to Bahrain? Go for it! Bahrain is a warm and welcoming place, full of opportunities for cultural exchange and new friendships. From the vibrant island life to the deep sense of community, you’ll find Bahrain to be a wonderful home for your family – a place to make memories that will last a lifetime. And of course, the most attractive part of Bahrain is its people! Never have I encountered a more welcoming, friendly, and generous population. Thank you Bahrain! Watch the Video
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 MOTORING 6 Tailored Porsche Prestige Crafted to perfection, Porsche’s Exclusive Manufaktur blends cutting‑edge innovation with artisanal craftsmanship to deliver truly personalised Panamera and Taycan 4S vehicles that embody luxury, identity and sophistication. Porsche’s Exclusive Manufaktur programme elevates the brand’s iconic models to bespoke masterpieces, enabling clients to tailor both aesthetic and technical elements with unparalleled precision. In a recent showcase, Porsche Centre Bahrain presented two standout examples: the electric Taycan 4S and the sporty Panamera, each customised down to the finest detail. A Fusion of Tech and Craftsmanship Underpinning these vehicles is Porsche’s commitment to merging advanced engineering with traditional craftsmanship. At the Stuttgart factory, artisans work with premium materials – German‑ and Austrian‑sourced leather, Alcantara, carbon fibre, wood and aluminium – meticulously selecting, stitching and finishing each component by hand. Taycan 4S: FUTURISTIC ELEGANCE ELECTRIFIED Panamera: SPORTY REFINEMENT IN SILVER Exterior: Cloaked in Ice Grey Metallic, the Taycan 4S features colour‑matched trims on the lower exterior mirrors, high‑gloss black window surrounds and an adjustable panoramic roof for bespoke ambience. Exterior: Dressed in Dolomite Silver Metallic, the Panamera is refined with polished high‑gloss black wheels. Interior: It boasts 18‑way adjustable adaptive sports seats in elegant Barrique Club leather, a colour‑matched door handle inlay, carbon‑matte accents and a heated GT‑style leather steering wheel. Illuminated door sill guards and a panoramic roof enhance both comfort and ambience. Interior: Inside, a lavish two‑tone leather interior in black and Bordeaux red exudes sophistication. Personal touches include heated matte carbon fibre steering trim, exterior‑matching customised keys, illuminated carbon‑matte door sill guards, exclusive floor mats and an advanced Head‑Up Display. To discover how Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur can tailor a vehicle to your exact preferences: Visit – Porsche Centre Bahrain in Sitra 17459911 Creativity Unleashed Exclusive Manufaktur invites clients to collaborate with Porsche’s Design Studio and Weissach engineers. From colour options and trim details to technical upgrades, the only limit is creativity. This synergy transforms bespoke concepts into reality, resulting in high‑performance cars that reflect each owner’s personality. Experience Personalisation By seamlessly combining state‑of‑the‑art features with artisanal detail, Porsche’s full‑custom programme delivers vehicles that are far more than transport – they are expressions of individual taste and refinement.
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womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 FATHER’S DAY 8 Celebrating Our Fathers On Father’s Day (June 15), we reached out on our social media channel (@womanthismonth) to shine a spotlight on the men who matter the most. We asked our followers to nominate the special fathers and celebrate their positive influence on our lives. The most meaningful father figures often show up in the most unexpected ways. They’re the ones who teach us life skills we didn’t know we needed, offer wisdom at just the right moment and love us through every phase of our journey. They show up not because they have to, but because they want to. Let’s meet a few of our special heroes! For the Father of my Boys, Aaron: You show up – every single day. Whether it’s spending time with the boys, running to practice, or just being present when it matters most, our sons are growing up with a solid example of what it means to lead with consistency, patience and quiet confidence. You don’t ask for credit, but you deserve it. From bedtime chats to weekend outings, you give them more than just time – you give them you. Fatherhood looks good on you – not because it’s easy, but because you live it fully. Thank you for being their steady, and mine. Happy Father’s Day, Nasra Grimley If I was to describe my father, Valter Piergiovanni in three words, I would say he is kind because he is nice to everyone. Another word to describe him would be hard worker because he has always done his hardest and best to make us happy and give us a good life. One more word would be caring because he cares about us and people and he will always do his best to show it. His best qualities is his ability to do whatever it takes to show his care for people. He will always try his best in everything and ensure we are happy and that’s his way of caring and it’s his best quality. I want to be a chef like him in the future because he inspired me to want to become a chef. He got me into cooking and it’s something I see myself doing well at. I feel like I’ll become successful like him if I become a chef. I wish him in the future whatever it is that makes him happy to happen and I wish him good health. Happy Father’s Day, Francesco and Luca Piergiovanni
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 FATHER’S DAY 9 One trait we truly admire and picked up from our dad, Pierric Dubois, is his composed, cool-headed nature. No matter how chaotic things got, whether it was drama, crisis or a tough decision, he always managed to stay grounded and think objectively. Over time, we realised that this quality became one of the most powerful tools in our own skillset, both in daily life and especially at work. Not only is he an incredible father, but he is a talented man, a great son, brother and husband. His greatest trait is how he lives life to the fullest. He deserves everything in life and wears his heart on his sleeve, which is noticeable after having a single conversation with him. Happy Father’s Day, Abel & Lèa Dubois I love my Apa, Hussain Alkhabbaz, because he plays with me a lot, we do sports together and he reads for me. He is strong and kind and always there for me. I miss him a lot but when he is with me we have a lot of fun. Happy Father’s Day, Idris Alkhabbaz My dearest husband, Vinayak Kulkarni, is a beautiful soul inside and out. Being a corporate mother and content creator is no easy task. From boardrooms to reels, housework to homework with our twins, each day is a whirlwind of responsibilities. Yet he stands beside me with love, patience and teamwork. He never shies away from nappies or school projects. With grace and unwavering support, he redefines what true marriage means. His empathy allows me to pursue my dreams, knowing our home and hearts are safe. Thank you for being my rock, my calm in chaos ad a role model to our children. Happy Father’s Day, Rozene Nunes
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 HEALTH 10 Conversation on Botox Botox has become one of the most popular non-invasive treatments for achieving a youthful and refreshed appearance. Dr. Paulo at ALKEM Health & Wellness is the ideal expert to guide you through the process.
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 HEALTH 11 Over the years, Botox has proven to be a highly effective solution for reducing wrinkles and fine lines, particularly around the forehead, eyes and mouth. Its popularity stems from its ability to provide smooth, natural-looking results with minimal downtime, making it an attractive option for many individuals. Botox works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles, which leads to smoother skin and a more youthful appearance. One of the major advantages of Botox is that the procedure is quick, safe and requires no surgery. Patients can expect results within a few days, and the effects typically last several months, allowing for a long-term solution without the need for constant maintenance. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), 9,480,949 Botox procedures were performed in 2023, a 9 percent increase compared to 2022, making Botox the most common non-surgical procedure for over 13 years in a row in the US. This solidifies its status as a top choice for individuals seeking a reliable and effective non-invasive treatment. Dr. Paulo, a renowned expert in Botox treatments, shares: “Botox is incredibly effective for those seeking a non-invasive way to reduce the signs of aging. What sets Botox apart is its ability to produce subtle, natural-looking results. When performed by a skilled practitioner, Botox can smooth wrinkles without compromising facial expressions, ensuring that you still look like yourself, just a more youthful version.” The key to successful Botox treatment lies in precision. A skilled practitioner ensures that the injections are administered in a way that maintains your natural facial expressions while smoothing out wrinkles. Botox can be used not only for cosmetic reasons but also for medical purposes, such as treating migraines and excessive sweating. What makes Botox even more appealing is its minimal recovery time. Patients can typically return to their daily activities almost immediately after treatment. There’s no need for long recovery periods, making it convenient for those with busy schedules who want to enhance their appearance without a significant disruption to their lives. Botox is an excellent option for anyone seeking a quick and safe non-surgical procedure to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. If you’re considering Botox, Dr. Paulo at ALKEM is the ideal expert to handle this process. With his extensive experience and personalised approach, he will help you achieve the best possible results, tailored to your unique goals. For more information about ALKEM: @alkem.bh 77973333 www.alkemofficial.com Watch the Video
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 OPINION 12 Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst, Dr. Fifi Kiwan, discusses Summer Brain Drain, often called the ‘Summer Slide,’ which refers to the learning loss many students experience over the long break. You’ve probably heard the saying: “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” This rings especially true for kids during the summer break. While the school year is behind us, many children risk losing some of the knowledge they gained while having fun in the sun. What Is Summer Brain Drain? According to the National Summer Learning Association, kids can lose about two months of maths skills during this time. Studies show that standardised test scores tend to dip significantly after summer holiday, highlighting the importance of keeping those brains active. 1. Enrol in a Brain Training Programme Consider enrolling your child in a brain training programme that uses evidence-based strategies to enhance cognitive skills. These structured programmes are designed to improve areas such as memory, attention and problem-solving abilities. Research shows that participants often experience significant gains in their learning capacity and academic performance. By investing in a brain training course, you can help your child develop the skills they need to excel in school and beyond. 2. Writing Practice Encourage your child to write! For younger kids, this could mean crafting a few simple sentences. Older kids might enjoy journaling, making scrapbooks or writing short stories. This not only keeps their writing skills sharp but also sparks creativity. 3. Creative Play Learning doesn’t always happen at a desk! Creative play has fantastic developmental benefits. Activities like card games can boost maths skills and strategic thinking, while building with Lego enhances fine motor skills. Let their imagination run wild! 4. Summer Reading Make reading a part of your summer routine. Just 10 minutes of reading each day can have a significant impact. Join a summer book club, read aloud together or even work on fun book reports. The options are endless! 5. Educational Trips Plan outings that combine fun and learning. Visits to engaging places can enhance your child’s knowledge and problem-solving skills. These experiences provide a hands-on approach to learning, keeping your child curious and excited about new concepts. If traveling isn’t possible, consider exploring virtual experiences that can also stimulate their interest and imagination. Enjoying Summer Together Summer is a time for relaxation and family bonding, but it doesn’t have to mean a complete break from learning. With these simple strategies, you can help your child retain their skills while creating lasting memories. So, dive into summer with a mix of fun and learning to ensure your child heads back to school ready to shine! Summer Brain Drain: WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO BEAT IT Students lose an average of 2.6 months of maths skills and two months of reading skills during summer. The first six weeks of the new school year are often spent re-learning material from the previous year. The learning loss becomes more pronounced in higher grade levels. Did You Know? How to Combat Summer Learning Loss Don’t worry! There are plenty of fun and easy ways to keep your child’s mind sharp during the summer. Just a few hours of educational activities each week can make a big difference. Here are some creative ideas to consider:
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 HEALTH 13 Precision, Personalisation and Progress By Dr. Emad Eddin Alassali, Implantologist, SPE Dental Centre Dr. Emad Eddin Alassali At SPE Dental Centre, dental implant procedures are about restoring confidence, function and quality of life through meticulous planning and modern innovation. Driven by a commitment to excellence, my approach to implantology combines cutting-edge science with compassionate care. I stay continuously informed by reading peer-reviewed journals, attending global conferences and participating in advanced workshops. This dedication allows me to integrate the latest in dental technology – from 3D digital imaging and guided implant surgery to regenerative procedures that improve both patient comfort and clinical outcomes. Every patient journey begins with clear and personalised communication. I believe that when patients understand their treatment, they are empowered to make the best decisions for their oral health. Whether it’s a single tooth implant or full arch rehabilitation, I use visual aids – digital scans, CBCT images and anatomical models – to walk patients through each step of their treatment. I encourage questions, provide detailed written guidance, and ensure patients leave every consultation feeling reassured and informed. Cost, discomfort and time are common concerns when it comes to implants. That’s why I provide complete transparency: from outlining financial options to explaining how modern techniques minimise pain. Thanks to minimally invasive surgery and advanced sedation, most patients are surprised at how comfortable the process is. I also share real patient testimonials and success stories, offering added peace of mind. As for timelines, I provide a clear, structured schedule – from the initial consultation to final placement and follow-up – so that every patient knows exactly what to expect. Implant success lies in the planning. For a single implant, I begin with a comprehensive evaluation, often supported by CBCT imaging, to assess bone density, gum health and alignment. This ensures precise placement and a natural-looking result. For more extensive cases like full arch rehabilitation, I conduct a complete occlusal assessment and simulate outcomes digitally, using leading techniques such as All-on-4 or All-on-6. I favour implant systems like Nobel Biocare and Straumann for their superior osseointegration and reliable digital interfaces, allowing me to tailor every treatment to the patient’s anatomy and long-term goals. Of course, no surgery is without potential risks, but through diligent preoperative planning and swift, evidence-based interventions, complications can be effectively minimised. From infection control and bone grafting to nerve mapping and post-op follow-ups, my approach is proactive, precise and patient-first. Ultimately, at SPE Dental Centre, we are committed to delivering results that are as functional as they are aesthetic – smiles that last a lifetime, supported by the science of today and the compassion of true care. Watch the Video
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 NUTRITION 14 A Sweet Treat That Can Be Smart Too Chocolate & Health: Consultant, Lifestyle Nutritionist and Meal Planner, Dr. Tejender Kaur Sarna, more popularly known as Dr. Tejji, posits on how chocolate doesn’t always have to be a sin. World Chocolate Day, celebrated every July 7, is a sweet yet firm reminder that indulging in life’s sweet moments can be both joyful and healthconscious – especially if you’re a chocolate lover. Contrary to its reputation as a guilty pleasure, chocolate (especially dark chocolate), when enjoyed mindfully, can offer impressive health benefits. But here’s the healthy twist: not all chocolate is created equal. If you’re someone with a sweet tooth, you don’t have to give up your favourite treat – you just need to enjoy it smartly. The magic of chocolate lies in cocoa, which is rich in flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that support heart health, brain function and even reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that moderate consumption of dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, boost mood by enhancing serotonin levels and reduce cortisol (your stress hormone). However, these benefits are mostly linked to dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa content, not sugar-laden milk chocolates or overly processed candy bars. Here are simple ways to make chocolate a healthy habit and your chocolate cravings into health wins: 1. Go Dark & Pure – Opt for chocolate that’s 70 percent cocoa or higher. The higher the cocoa content, the more antioxidants – and the less sugar – you’ll be consuming. Look for chocolates with minimal ingredients: cocoa, cocoa butter and a touch of natural sweetener. 2. Pair it with Protein or Fibre – Balance is key. Pair a square of dark chocolate with a few almonds or walnuts or piece of fruit like banana or berries or maybe a spoon of Greek yoghurt. This combination slows down the absorption of sugar and keeps you feeling full longer. 3.Use it in Healthy Recipes – Instead of devouring a whole bar, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over oatmeal, smoothie bowls or fruit skewers. You can also mix cocoa powder into chia puddings, protein balls or healthy brownies made with almond flour and dates. 4. Portion control is the key – Two squares of quality 70-80 percent dark chocolate (around 20g) just once a day is usually enough to satisfy cravings without going overboard. Eat it slowly and mindfully – savour the texture, the aroma and the slight bitterness. You’ll be surprised how little you need to feel satisfied. 5. Check the Label – Avoid chocolates with ingredients like hydrogenated oils, artificial sweeteners or highfructose corn syrup. Natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or dates are better alternatives. Sweet Tooth? Chocolate Can Still Work for You! If you crave sweets often, chocolate can actually help reduce sugar cravings over time—if you switch from highly processed sweets to bittersweet dark varieties. The rich taste of quality chocolate is deeply satisfying and often doesn’t trigger binge-eating the way sugar-heavy snacks do. Here’s how to make it work: • Keep a few squares of individually packed dark chocolate handy for dessert instead of cookies or pastries. • Try hot cocoa made with unsweetened cocoa powder, warm almond milk and cinnamon. • Swap store-bought chocolate spreads with homemade versions using cocoa, nut butter and honey. With time, your palate will adapt. What used to taste bitter will become pleasantly rich and indulgent. Let this World Chocolate Day, be celebrated in a Healthy Way! This World Chocolate Day, don’t skip the celebration – upgrade it. Choose better-quality chocolate, pair it wisely and treat it as a mindful pleasure rather than a sugary escape. Indulgence isn’t the enemy – mindless overindulgence is. By shifting this approach, one can enjoy chocolate regularly and still support your energy, immunity, mood and even weight goals. So unwrap that 80 percent dark chocolate square, pair it with some berries or nuts, and raise a toast to sweet health. Because chocolate isn’t just a treat – it’s a lifestyle when done right.
17226060 Bahrain Bay, United Tower Floor 40 @spe.dental Scan to watch the video Where Your Smile Meets Expert Care
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 BEAUTY 16 Discounts often seem like a good idea to get clients into your salon. But here in Bahrain, always giving discounts has seriously hurt the business. The Problem: Why Discounts Harm Our Salons The truth is, constant discounting has hurt the value of our entire beauty industry. It started during COVID, and now it’s spreading fast – one salon lowers prices, and others feel forced to follow. This creates harmful competition. If we want a strong, healthy industry, we must stop undercutting each other and start supporting one another like a real community. Are You Ready to Stop Discounts at Your Salon? 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 ? When you always offer discounts, your clients start to think your normal prices are too high. This causes serious problems: • Your Skills Seem Cheap: You’ve spent years learning, training your staff, working hard and making your services excellent. When prices are cut, all that effort feels less important. Clients might think your special skills are not worth much. • You Trap Yourself: When you try to beat competitors with discounts, you trap yourself in a losing game. Skilled employees know their worth – and they’re playing the game too! They want better salaries, but if you’re always cutting prices, you can’t afford them. What happens next? You’re stuck with a less experienced team, working harder for less, in a salon where prices keep dropping. In the end, the value of your business disappears – and so does your salon. • You Attract the Wrong Clients: People who only come for discounts are not loyal. They will always leave you for the next salon at a cheaper price. This means you’re constantly stressed about finding new clients. • Your Team Gets Tired: Working hard but earning less makes your team lose their passion for the job. They miss their targets, get stressed, and eventually leave. Remember, your salon is a real business. It’s not a small hobby. It can be a joyful journey or become a nightmare. The Solution: Focus on Real Value, Not Low Prices So, how can we attract and keep clients, and still make good money? You must set your prices based on the real value you give! This also creates fairness for your team. Imagine if all salons in Bahrain charged fair prices instead of fighting each other with endless discounts – our whole industry would profit and truly grow! Try Smart Packages with Free Gifts: At your normal prices, create special packages. Then, add extra service that feels valuable but doesn’t cost you much. Big effect, small cost.
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 BEAUTY 17 First, your entire team must clearly understand why the price increase is happening then the front desk. Senior staff should also inform their clients at least two months in advance. This shows respect and protects client loyalty. The new pricing applies only to senior team members who truly deserve it – those with over 10 years of experience, strong skills, loyal clients, high average tickets, excellent retail sales (based on deep consultation), income over BD3,500 and high rebooking rates. Clients usually appreciate this honesty and professionalism – especially when it reflects real value. The requirements for this position are crystal clear, and the path to reach it is open to everyone. The conditions are set, and all team members are welcome to work towards this goal. Nothing is truly free – it’s about smart strategy. Offer low-cost extras that make clients happy and grow your salon. These extras should feel like a gift, but they serve a purpose: to encourage rebooking and increase spending on the next booking. Examples: • In the spa: Short extra massage, hot stone add-on or a free eye treatment. • In the hair section: Quick trim, soft waves or a head/neck/shoulder massage. • For manicures: Hand mask, 10-minute massage or simple hand treatment. Remember: You’re not giving away services – you’re building value. Badia How can I increase prices for senior staff without upsetting my clients? And how will other staff feel? Instead of giving discounts, what small extra services can I offer that feel special to clients but don’t cost much? Different Prices for Clients (Easy Choices): Offer three clear price levels for the same main service in your salon, always with the same great quality. • Premium: Top products, best results. • Signature: Good products, great results. • Basic Essential: Still good quality, simple and affordable. This lets every client choose what fits their needs and budget. Pricing Based on Skills (Fair for Your Team and You): Your senior stylists and therapists – with high experience and special skills – should charge premium prices. This reflects their value and your investment in them. A fair price increase of 15 percent to 20 percent for senior staff is well-deserved. Most clients respect this when it’s explained properly. Who are seniors? 10+ years of experience, top skills, loyal clients, high average tickets, strong retail sales (showing deep consultations), income over BD3,500, high rebooking rate and a high salary. Your junior staff can charge a lower price as they gain experience. This shows a clear growth path for the team. Staff Badges: Clearly Showing Skills • Sarah – Senior Expert • Layla – Junior Expert Make Every Client Visit Special Make every client feel truly special from the moment they walk into your salon. • Great Talks: Listen to what they want and suggest the best service. By using these smart ways to show value, your salon will attract the right clients, make more money and build a loyal customer base. You’ll no longer need to rely on discounts. Watch the Video
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 OPINION 18 Finding Home in the Heart of the Gulf When I first landed in Bahrain eight years ago, I never imagined how deeply this island would capture my heart. What began as a teaching opportunity turned into a life filled with meaningful friendships, countless memories and an overwhelming sense of belonging. As I prepare to leave for a new adventure in Vietnam, I find myself filled with gratitude (and more than a little sadness) at the thought of saying goodbye to the place I call home. Warmth That Goes Beyond the Weather Yes, Bahrain is warm. But it’s not just the climate, it’s the people. From the very beginning, I was struck by the genuine hospitality and kindness of the Bahraini community. Whether it was the cheerful smile from the man in the cold store, the spontaneous conversations with strangers or the genuine support of my colleagues, the human warmth here is something truly special. It’s hard to articulate, but there’s a sense of welcome and respect that permeates daily life here. I never felt like an outsider; rather, I was invited into homes, included in family gatherings and celebrated for my differences as much as my similarities. It’s this spirit of inclusivity that makes Bahrain so unique in the region, and so hard to leave. A Safe Space to Grow As a woman living abroad, safety is always a priority. Bahrain gave me peace of mind from the start. Whether walking alone at night, commuting to work or exploring the island on weekends, I always felt secure. That sense of safety allowed me to flourish, both personally and professionally. This secure environment empowered me to embrace new experiences, try new things and become part of a broader community. I joined clubs, took yoga classes, attended weekend brunches and volunteered with charity organisations. Bahrain gave me the confidence to say “yes” to life. A Melting Pot of Culture and Connection Living in Bahrain means living at a crossroads where East meets West, tradition meets modernity and where people from every corner of the globe come together. The diversity here is more than surface-deep; it’s the vibrant, beating heart of society. Some of my closest friends are from countries I had never even visited before coming here. Our shared experiences; celebrating Eid, Diwali, Thanksgiving, Christmas and everything in between, brought us together in a way that felt like family. A Bittersweet Goodbye REFLECTING ON EIGHT WONDERFUL YEARS IN BAHRAIN Rachel Radford is an expat teacher in Bahrain. Her column in Woman This Month dives into pivotal issues impacting women, reflecting her unique perspective and experiences.
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 OPINION 19 I’ve sampled cuisines from different continents, picked up phrases in multiple languages (khallas habibi was an everyday necessity inside the classroom!) and gained an appreciation for perspectives far beyond my own. The Women Who Made It Feel Like Home Of course, what truly made my time in Bahrain unforgettable were the incredible women I met along the way. Strong, funny, passionate and resilient – these women became my family. From heartfelt late-night chats to spontaneous last minute travel plans, we supported each other through every high and low. We laughed, cried, celebrated milestones and held each other together when things got tough. To the women who’ve been by my side these past eight years: thank you. You made this journey not just bearable, but beautiful. A New Chapter Begins Now, as I pack my bags for Vietnam, excitement bubbles beneath the sadness. I’m eager for the challenges and growth that come with a new teaching role, and curious about the culture, cuisine and community I’ll soon be part of. But there’s no escaping the ache in my heart at leaving behind the beautiful life I’ve built here. It’s strange to think I’ll no longer hear the call to prayer drifting through my window, or sip karak while chatting with friends on a Friday afternoon. I’ll miss the scent of oud in the air, the glimmer of the Gulf at sunset and the sense of being part of something truly special. Bahrain, Always in My Heart Leaving Bahrain doesn’t mean leaving it behind. The lessons I’ve learned, the friendships I’ve made, and the woman I’ve become here will all travel with me. Bahrain has shaped me in ways I’m only just beginning to understand. It has shown me the power of kindness, the richness of culture and the strength of female friendship. So this isn’t farewell, it’s ma’a salama for now. Thank you, Bahrain, for eight extraordinary years. You will always be my home. Opening of Creative Beats Studio & Birthday Celebration A new chapter in Bahrain’s cultural and artistic scene began with the grand opening of Creative Beats Studio — a vibrant space dedicated to music, dance, and artistic expression for children and adults alike. Founded by Anna Nazimova, a well-known cellist and director of Creative Beats W.L.L. who was celebrating her birthday on the same day, the studio offers a variety of classes such as ballet, stretching and introductory music lessons for young learners.
womanthismonth.com | JULY 2025 IN HER SHOES 20 IN HER SHOES This month, we take a walk in the shoes of Nidhi Jain, Area Head at VLCC, who shares her daily rituals, impactful moments and the philosophies that guide her leadership in the wellness industry. How do you start your day? I always begin with a moment of mindfulness and a cup of green tea, followed by some cardio. It sets the tone for productivity and positivity before I dive into emails and plan the day ahead. If your job were a skincare product, what would it be? It would be the VLCC multi-action serum – addressing multiple concerns at once, bringing out the best in every situation and nourishing the entire team. My role, like a serum, requires consistency, adaptability and impact. What’s one beauty trend you wish never existed? I really wish we could do away with harmful quick-fix fads and extreme DIY skincare or haircare hacks from the internet. True beauty is about longterm wellness, not shortcuts. What’s the most unforgettable client moment you’ve experienced? There was a woman who came to us in a deeply vulnerable state – struggling with obesity, hormonal imbalances, depression and infertility after 12 years of trying. We developed a holistic, medically guided plan for her, and over two years, she lost 60 kilos, regained her health and conceived naturally. That moment was life-changing for all of us. It reminded me that wellness isn’t skin deep – it’s transformative. How has your own career transformed? Moving from a structured corporate setting to the dynamic world of wellness was a major shift. It taught me to merge strategy with empathy and emotional intelligence. What’s your leadership style in a sentence? Lead with purpose, act with empathy, deliver with excellence. I believe in inspiring, not instructing. How do you unwind after a long day? A long walk followed by my skincare and haircare routine helps me reset. I also take a few quiet moments to reflect with gratitude. What’s a skincare myth that needs to go? That expensive means better. What really works is consistency, professional guidance and balance – not price tags. What would you be doing if not this? I’d be coaching young professionals or running a wellness retreat in the mountains. I love helping people grow. What advice do you always share with newcomers to the industry? Stay authentic, keep learning and lead with empathy. Clients seek confidence and care, not just treatments. Nidhi Jain Area Head of VLCC Watch the Video
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