Woman This Month - September 2025

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 HEALTH 2 Reclaim Your Confidence Dr. Paolo Hypacio, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at ALKEM Health & Wellness, offers his expert insights into the transformative potential of the ‘Mommy Makeover’ and how it can help women restore confidence after motherhood.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 HEALTH 3 As a plastic surgeon, I have witnessed how transformative motherhood can be, not only emotionally but physically as well. Many women come to me feeling disconnected from their pre-pregnancy bodies. My goal with the Mommy Makeover is to help restore that sense of confidence and self. Every woman’s experience of pregnancy and childbirth is unique, and so are the changes that follow. Whether it is excess abdominal skin, loss of breast volume or stubborn fat in areas that once responded to exercise, I create a customised plan that addresses your specific concerns. A Mommy Makeover might include a tummy tuck, breast augmentation or lift and liposuction. The combination is tailored to you. What I prioritise in my practice is natural-looking results. My approach is never about creating a new version of you, it’s about helping you feel like yourself again. With careful planning and a detailed understanding of anatomy, I aim to enhance your natural beauty without compromising your individuality. This journey is more than just physical. I understand the emotional vulnerability that can come with choosing surgery, especially after becoming a mother. That is why I offer support and guidance every step of the way, from the first consultation to your final check-up. My patients know they are not just receiving a procedure but care that is compassionate, safe and thoughtful. Surgery is a personal decision. I take the time to truly understand your goals and ensure that your expectations align with realistic, healthy outcomes. You are not alone in this process, and I am here to help you feel empowered in your choice. If you are ready to feel strong, beautiful and confident in your body again, I would be honoured to support you. Taking care of yourself is a powerful act, one that benefits both you and your family. Visit me at ALKEM Health & Wellness to book your consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your confidence. Book your consultation: 77973333 @alkem.bh

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 INTERVIEW 4 Leadership in Logistics Ms. Waseem has steadily built a reputation as one of Bahrain’s rising leaders in logistics and e-commerce operations. From graduating with First Class Honours in Accounting and Finance to heading picker operations at Key Arabia Services, her career path demonstrates determination, adaptability and a passion for driving change. Building Leadership Through Experience Her professional life has been shaped by diverse experiences that developed both her technical expertise and leadership style. Early on, her work at the Al Hawas al Khams Rehabilitation Centre gave her a foundation in empathy and communication, qualities that continue to influence how she manages people today. Ms. Waseem later transitioned into human resources, taking on roles at Shahico Holding WLL in Bahrain and as a freelance HR manager in Belgium. These positions allowed her to refine her approach to workforce planning, employee engagement, and performance management. “My HR background helped me understand how to set clear expectations while ensuring my team feels supported,” she reflects. “I see people as partners in achieving our KPIs, not just resources.” Driving Change in Logistics At Key Arabia Services, Ms. Waseem leads end-to-end in-store order picking operations for major retail and food delivery platforms. Her strategic leadership has resulted in consistently meeting strict partner KPIs and reducing picker non-performance penalties by 25 percent in Q2 2025. She describes her role as “a balance of managing people and monitoring performance,” with a constant focus on process improvement and efficiency. Adaptability, discipline and teamwork whilst remaining calm under pressure are the man qualities required for the job, she believes. Motivation, she believes, is also central to maintaining high performance. “Motivation comes from a mix of recognition, fairness and opportunity,” she explains. “I make our performance data transparent and use incentives to reward high performers. Small but meaningful recognition, making people feel valued, makes them perform better.” Breaking Down Barriers While she has achieved significant success, she acknowledges the challenges of working in a male-dominated sector. “The main challenge is overcoming stereotypes,” she says. “I’ve had to Afreen Waseem is transforming Bahrain’s e-commerce and logistics sector through her role at Key Arabia Services, combining strategic leadership with a passion for empowering women to pursue roles in operations and management. work twice as hard to prove my credibility.” This has inspired her to advocate for more women to take leadership roles in logistics and e-commerce. “We need to reshape perceptions,” she emphasises. “When women see that their skills are valued in these roles, they’ll be more confident in stepping up.” When asked what advice she would give to young women in Bahrain aspiring to enter traditionally male-dominated fields, she states: “Don’t let stereotypes hold you back. Logistics teaches you resilience and leadership. Build your knowledge, stay confident and find mentors. Don’t be afraid to bring your unique perspective to the table.”

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 INTERVIEW 5 Ms. Al Arayedh’s interest piqued at a young age, nurtured by family influences and a natural affinity for creativity. She recalls: “Fashion has always been a part of me since childhood. I loved restyling my clothes, experimenting with handwork and creating something new from what I had. My grandmother had a deep love for dressmaking, and I grew up surrounded by my aunties who ran a haute couture house. Those experiences deepened my love for fashion.” Despite advice against pursuing it professionally, she says: “I knew fashion was not just something I liked it was who I was, and what I saw myself doing.” Design Vision and Inspirations Ms. Al Arayedh’s approach to design is anchored in balance. “It’s is rooted in creating pieces that are functional, comfortable and stylish,” she explains. “I enjoy experimenting with draping and innovative cuts while ensuring my designs remain modest. I aim to balance between modern fashion trends and cultural identity, so my work speaks both to global style and to the heritage that shapes me. “Bahraini heritage inspires me through its textures, craftsmanship and storytelling. I often incorporate elements such as traditional silhouettes reimagined with contemporary cuts and fabrics. I also take inspiration from Bahraini Fashion designer Razan Al Arayedh speaks about her love for creating timeless, modest designs that fuse Bahraini heritage with modern aesthetics. Passion For Fashion colours, desert tones and the richness of gold embroidery. It’s about taking something timeless and giving it a modern, wearable form that still connects back to our culture.” Crafting with Purpose Her creative process is meticulous and intentional, beginning with inspiration from trends, textures or even moods. “I start with sketches and explore how I can make a piece both wearable and unique,” she explains. “Then comes fabric selection, which is crucial; the fabric must complement the cut and drape I envision. After that, I create patterns, experiment with draping on mannequins and refine until the design truly comes to life. Finally, I oversee the construction to ensure the garment feels as good as it looks.” Sustainability also plays a key role in her philosophy. “I focus on creating timeless pieces rather than fast trends, so my clients can wear them for years,” she offers. “I also try to work with high-quality fabrics that last, and whenever possible, I use deadstock materials or repurpose leftover fabrics into smaller items or details.” Looking Ahead Reflecting on her latest work, Ms. Al Arayedh shares: “The collection I’m working on now is one of my most meaningful, because it feels like a true reflection of where I am today as a designer. My upcoming 2027 Kaftan collection is all about glamour with a cultural twist. I’ll be working with jacquard, silk and organza to create volume and fluid movement, blending tradition with modern elegance.” Finally, Ms. Al Arayedh is spending her third year mentoring with Youth City – Fashion Studio, and it’s been her most rewarding so far. She explains. “I wanted them to understand that fashion is more than just sketching, it’s also designing with purpose, balancing creativity with business and truly knowing your craft. My advice is always: learn the technical side, from fabrics to construction. A designer who understands how to make clothes, not just draw them, will always stand out.”

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 INTERVIEW 6 The Power of Perspective Dandy Salvino, a devoted mother, an accomplished destination wedding planner and a visionary event conceptualiser, has taken a profound step in her purpose.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 INTERVIEW 7 She has evolved from being simply a designer and storyteller to delving deeper into her projects through the lens of perception. Her approach is to weave her life journey, every challenge and triumph, into a tapestry with her clients’ stories, creating a unified collective vision that reflects authenticity, strength and beauty. Her experiences, her struggles and her triumphs have each shaped her ability to see potential where others might overlook it. Yet she understands she does not walk this path alone. Behind her stands a loyal team that believes in her mission, clients who trust her vision, friends who understand her reality and continue to inspire her daily and a family whose prayers lift her through every obstacle. She views life’s setbacks as opportunities for growth. Turning personal struggles into sources of inspiration, she encourages women everywhere, those feeling misunderstood or exhausted, to recognise their own strength. Her story is a call to embrace resilience, to see every difficulty as a stepping stone for greater purpose and to find within themselves the power to rise. This article isn’t just about her journey or her aspirations, it’s a message for women. To those who feel tired, lost or tempted to give up: know that your strength is greater than any hardship. The ability to overcome, to rebuild and to rebuild with purpose lies within you. Dandy believes in love, don’t be mistaken. But she also wishes to inspire her clients through her extensive experience as a wedding planner that true love and lasting marriage are not always about butterflies and constant euphoria. Instead, they are about growth, patience and understanding. Love is about seeing each other’s worth as the journey unfolds, growing together with a positive perception, cultivating resilience and nurturing strength. In her view, enduring love isn’t an ‘ever after’ of perfection. It’s a continuous process of building, rising and walking forward together, even through storms. Her message to every woman: when life tests you, remember that you are capable of being both the pillar and the shelter; resilient, unwavering and unstoppable. You hold the power to turn every challenge into a testament of your strength. What inspires your work as a wedding conceptualiser? I draw my inspiration from my life’s journey and the challenges I’ve faced, the strength I’ve gained and the perspective I’ve developed along the way. I believe that when I weave my clients’ perceptions and stories into my own understanding, I create a unified and meaningful vision. Every wedding or event is a reflection of love and hope and my approach is to craft a narrative that captures the essence of what the couple dreams of and aspires to. How does perception influence your approach to your work? I believe perception is powerful, whether it’s an event, a product or a brand. When we create an event, we carefully consider the emotions of the audience, be it the guests, the market for a product or the positioning of a brand. They deserve to experience the depth of what we aim to convey through visual storytelling. Our goal is to engage the senses and touch the human soul, delivering more than just décor or a set-up. We strive to craft rooted stories of commitment, authenticity and truth; elements that forge genuine connections and create a lasting meaningful impact. It’s about helping people feel and remember, not just see. What inspired your journey into creating your new company, Percepta Concepts? My journey through life’s trials and triumphs has taught me that perception is everything. I see Percepta Concepts as a revival of my passion, a new chapter where my team and I can continue to shape narratives and inspire through design. It evolved from my previous belief in ‘Ever After’ and embodies our core conviction that viewing the world through positive perceptions is the key to creating impactful and meaningful outcomes. Your story of life is so deep and seeing it positively is admirable. Out of curiosity, may we ask if there is any difficult part of your journey right now? The hardest thing is not being able to be beside my son, to talk to him and to help him understand what’s happening. As a mother, I can’t bear the thought of him enduring confusion and pain, knowing that he might carry trauma or hurt because of circumstances beyond my control. Every day, I pray that he remains strong, that he finds courage within himself and that someday, he’ll come back into my arms, where he truly belongs. Until then, I keep holding onto hope and faith, trusting that love will guide us through this storm. What message would you like to share with other women? To all women reading this, remember your strength. We are the pillars of our homes, carrying the load with resilience and grace. We are made to inspire and be strong, not to overpower our partners but to walk alongside them. Never dim your light for validation; instead, keep turning on your flames. There’s no need to push too hard to be seen. The more we try to force our way, the more we lose our true essence. We are born to guide and inspire, not to overshadow our families. When life leads us to moments of solitude or uncertainty, we must let our inner vitality revive us. In marriage or life, recognise your partner’s strength and let them be the roof of your home. When times of independence arrive, trust in your resilience, you can be both the pillar and the roof. Because in the end, our true strength is in embracing both unity and independence, standing tall as survivors and stewards of our own stories. Special Thanks and Credits I am deeply grateful to Manal Dhahi Law Firm for their unwavering support and guidance and to the Philippine Embassy for their continued encouragement. To Bahrain Tourism, thank you for opening doors and providing opportunities for wedding planners like us to showcase destination weddings, your support has been truly monumental. To my friends who inspire me daily and remind me of my potential, thank you for seeing the best in me. To my colleagues and team, you are family. Thank you for never giving up on me and for trusting me to lead and grow together on this journey. To all our clients who treat us like family and have stood by us through struggles, your trust fuels our motivation every single day. To our suppliers who have become like my saviours, endlessly believing in my vision and supporting me in every way possible: your faith keeps me strong. And most especially, I thank my family for their continuous prayers and unwavering love. Your support is my anchor, your strength my drive. And to my son, Adam, you are my soul, the light that makes everything I do come alive. Last but not least, thank you to Woman This Month for empowering women like me to believe in ourselves and push boundaries. Your recognition inspires us to dream bigger and stand stronger.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 PARENTING 8 THE UNOFFICIAL GUIDE TO THE Back-to-School Olympics It’s official. The calendar has turned, the school supply list has been conquered (mostly) and the crisp air of a new season is upon us. As a mum and a teacher, I know this season all too well. It’s a glorious time of day-to-day routines, scheduled activities and a certain kind of peace that can only come from a house that is quiet before 3pm. But with the return of structure comes the return of the most daunting athletic event of the school year: The Lunchbox Olympics. This is not a casual stroll in the park. This is a highly competitive, multi-event challenge that tests our creativity, our patience and our ability to make a sandwich that looks like it hasn’t been sat on. And as someone who has seen first-hand what gets traded, discarded and mysteriously forgotten at the bottom of a backpack, I’ve developed a few strategies for victory. This year, let’s not just survive the Lunchbox Olympics; let’s win them. Here are a few tips to help you go for the gold. The Meal Prep Marathon The first hurdle is the sheer exhaustion of having to think about one more thing. The secret to this event is planning. Go All In on One Day: Instead of frantically packing a lunch every morning, declare a ‘Lunch Prep Saturday.’ It’s like meal prep for adults but with significantly more tiny compartments and less quinoa. Hard-boil a dozen eggs, wash and chop all the veggies for the week and bake a batch of homemade muffins. You’ll thank yourself on Tuesday when you’re running on three hours of sleep and suddenly realise it’s your turn to drop off the class pet. Embrace the Bento Box Buffet: My biggest sanity saver is the bento box. But the real hack is to pre-fill the little compartments with ‘building blocks.’ Fill a few with a protein source (cubed cheese, a hard-boiled egg), a few with a fruit (grapes, berries) and a few with a carb (pretzels, As the new school year begins, Ouiam El Hassani shares clever tips and strategies to help parents master lunchbox preparation, keep children happy and healthy, and succeed in the Lunchbox Olympics.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 PARENTING 9 crackers). In the morning, you just have to grab a mix-and-match combination. It’s like a lunchtime tapas bar and it makes you look like a genius. The Nutritional Ninja Mission As a health enthusiast, I know the struggle is real. You want your kids to eat well but you also know that a perfectly packed lunch with broccoli will probably remain perfectly packed. This event is all about stealth and strategy. Hide and Go Nutritious: This is where you become a culinary spy. Blend spinach into a smoothie and pour it into a thermos. Make minimuffins with shredded courgette or carrots. Kids are far more likely to eat something if it looks like a treat. The goal is to get the good stuff in without them even knowing. The Power of Presentation: A sliced apple is nice, but an apple cut into fun shapes? That’s a game-changer. Use biscuit cutters on sandwiches and fruit. Use little colourful skewers for fruit kebabs. It’s a small detail but it makes the lunch look intentional, not just thrown together in a fit of morning rage. The Leftover Landing This is the most dangerous event. Will the lunch survive the journey from the fridge to the cafeteria? Use the Right Gear: Not all lunchboxes are created equal. A good lunchbox is an armoured vehicle for food. Look for boxes that have secure seals for liquids and durable exteriors. A quality thermos that keeps food warm is a parent’s best friend; pasta or soup can be a welcome change from sandwiches. Remember, if your child’s lunch is a complete mess, it will most likely go into the bin. Pack with an Engineer’s Eye: Think about the structural integrity of your lunch. Place the heaviest items at the bottom and lighter items on top. Secure liquids and squishy items in their own sealed containers. The goal is to prevent a lunchbox explosion that leaves you with a sticky mess and a hungry child. So, as we gear up for the new school year, remember you’re not just packing a lunch; you’re competing in the Lunchbox Olympics. With a little planning, a touch of culinary espionage and the right gear, you’ll not only survive but you will also win. And when you hear: “Mum, my lunch was awesome today,” you’ll know you’ve earned that gold medal – and you’ll thank me for it! Flormar Opens Sixth Store at City Centre Bahrain Flormar opens its 6th store at City Centre Bahrain, featuring a vibrant new concept and a wide range of premium makeup products.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 TRAVEL 10 Discover Saudi Just across the causeway lies a treasure trove of destinations in Saudi Arabia that remain uniquely preserved, authentic and awe-inspiring. On the occasion of Saudi National Day, Shruti Ramesh explores some hidden gems.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 TRAVEL 11 The Lesser Explored Areas of Al-Ula While Al-Ula has gained fame for its monumental rock formations and UNESCOlisted Hegra, its lesser-explored areas hold equal magic. Valleys dotted with ancient inscriptions, hidden canyons and surreal desert landscapes invite deeper discovery. The heritage villages surrounding Al-Ula reveal centuries of history and desert life. Away from the more popular sites, travellers can enjoy serene hikes and untouched beauty without crowds. Blending spectacle with solitude, Al-Ula’s quieter corners promise the kind of wonder that lingers long after the trip ends. Al-Wa’bah Crater For adventure seekers, the Al-Wa’bah Crater is a marvel of natural wonder. This massive volcanic crater, 2.5 miles wide and nearly 800 feet deep, features a gleaming white salt deposit at its centre, creating a surreal visual spectacle. Surrounded by arid desert, the crater is a stark reminder of Saudi Arabia’s powerful geological past. Hiking down into the crater offers a thrilling challenge with rewarding views. For Bahraini travellers craving unique landscapes beyond the ordinary, Al-Wa’bah is a striking off-thebeaten-track destination that feels almost otherworldly. Asir Mountains The Asir region offers a completely different side of Saudi Arabia: misty peaks, terraced farms and cool mountain air. Known for its year-round greenery and brightly painted villages, it is a haven for hikers and adventurers. The Asir National Park and cable-car rides provide sweeping panoramas, while summer festivals celebrate local music and dance. The mountain climate provides a refreshing contrast to Bahrain’s heat, making it an ideal retreat. The region’s cultural richness and natural beauty combined make Asir a must-visit for those craving cooler climes and authentic Saudi traditions. Al-Hasa Oasis The lush Al-Hasa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest palm oasis in the world, home to over 2.5 million date palms. Its network of gardens, canals and springs paints an almost surreal landscape in the heart of the desert. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, traditional markets and historical landmarks such as Qasr Ibrahim. The oasis is also renowned for producing some of the region’s finest dates. For those escaping Bahrain’s urban rush, Al-Hasa offers a blend of tranquillity, greenery and cultural depth unlike anywhere else in the Arabian Peninsula. Farasan Islands Nestled in the Red Sea, the Farasan Islands are a diver’s paradise, boasting crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches and thriving coral reefs. Beyond marine beauty, the islands feature mangrove forests, rare birdlife and remnants of Ottoman forts, offering a perfect mix of history and nature. Farasan is ideal for snorkelling, scuba diving or simply escaping into unspoilt tranquillity. It is one of Saudi Arabia’s most serene getaways, far from bustling cities, where the rhythm of the waves sets the pace for a laid-back, unforgettable experience. Umluj Often dubbed the ‘Maldives of Saudi Arabia’, Umluj enchants with its turquoise waters, white sandy shores and vibrant coral reefs. The small coastal town offers boat trips to nearby islands teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for divers and nature enthusiasts. Dolphins, sea turtles and colourful fish make frequent appearances, while the calm, clear waters invite endless swimming and relaxation. Umluj’s untouched charm ensures a peaceful retreat from the crowds. For Bahrainis dreaming of a quick island escape, this gem is closer than you think and utterly breath-taking. Rijal Almaa Village Tucked away in the Asir Mountains, Rijal Almaa Village is a living museum of heritage and tradition. Its striking multi-storey stone houses, adorned with white quartz designs, make it one of the most photogenic cultural sites in the Kingdom. Once a vital trading hub, today it preserves a rich legacy of art, artefacts and stories that highlight the region’s history. The village has won international acclaim for its preservation efforts, and wandering its alleyways feels like stepping back in time. For Bahrainis seeking a sense of culture, Rijal Almaa is a journey into Saudi Arabia’s soulful past.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 NUTRITION 12 Breakfast: Fuel for Learning Sending kids to school without breakfast is like sending them without pencils. It makes learning harder. Breakfast really is the ‘first fuel’ of the day. Why it matters: Sharpened focus & memory: Kids who eat breakfast have better concentration and problem-solving skills. Fewer crashes: Skipping breakfast can cause mid-morning meltdowns, headaches or sluggishness. Better choices later: Starting the day with a balanced meal makes children less likely to reach for junk food. Quick breakfast ideas: • Oatmeal with fruit and nuts • Whole-grain toast with avocado or peanut butter • Eggs (scrambled, boiled or on toast) Keeping Children Healthy at School: • Smoothie with banana, milk, spinach and oats • Yogurt parfait with berries and granola • Whole-grain pancakes or waffles topped with fruit Grab-and-go options: • Banana or apple with nut butter • Hard-boiled egg with toast • Homemade oat-and-date energy bars • Whole-grain muffin with milk Pro tip: Aim for protein, healthy carbs and fruit or veg in both breakfast and lunch. That combination keeps kids full, focused and ready to learn. Lunch: A Little Piece of Home School days are long, and lunch can make or break how well your child feels through the afternoon. Even if school meals are provided, sending a packed lunch gives you peace of mind and comforts your child with a taste of home. • Protein power: grilled chicken strips, mini skewers, turkey or tuna wraps, hard-boiled eggs, hummus with veggie sticks, cottage cheese or bean salad. • Healthy carbs and grains: wholewheat wraps, brown rice or quinoa salad, pasta salad with vegetables, mini whole-grain muffins or crackers. • Fruits and veggies: apple slices with nut butter, grapes, melon cubes, berries, carrot sticks, cucumber slices or roasted chickpeas. • Fun extras: yogurt with fruit, homemade trail mix or a few mini cheese cubes. • Hydration tip: Always pack a water bottle instead of juice or soda. Pro tip: Let children help choose or prepare their lunch. They’re more likely to eat it if they’ve had a say. Afternoon hunger is real, and smart snacks make a big difference. Trail mix, whole-grain crackers with cheese, yoghurt with honey or veggie sticks with hummus are perfect between school and homework. Simple Lunches, Habits & Tips for Parents Consultant, Lifestyle Nutritionist and Meal Planner, Dr. Tejender Kaur Sarna, more popularly known as Dr. Tejji, shares practical tips, simple meal ideas and healthy habits to help keep children energised and thriving at school. The start of the school year often feels like a juggling act; early mornings, homework, after-school activities and everything in between. In the middle of it all, one of the most important jobs parents face is ensuring kids stay healthy and energised. The good news? With a little planning and creativity, you can make school days smoother and set your child up to thrive in both body and mind. Beyond Food: Healthy Habits That Matter Good health isn’t just about what’s in the lunchbox. Simple daily habits are equally important: • Sleep: Kids need nine to 11 hours. Stick to bedtime routines. • Hand hygiene: Remind them to wash before eating. • Movement: Encourage active play after school, not just screens. • Emotional boost: A small lunchbox note or doodle can make their day. Keeping kids healthy at school doesn’t need to be complicated. A nourishing breakfast, a thoughtful lunch and good habits all lead to stronger bodies, sharper minds and happier school days. We can’t control everything our kids face outside, but we can send them off each morning fuelled, supported and ready to shine.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 INTERVIEW 13 In today’s fast-paced world, the bedtime story ritual is becoming a thing of the past, especially among Gen Z parents. A recent survey reveals a concerning trend: many young parents are shying away from reading to their children. With the busy demands of modern life, parents often cite a lack of time or a personal aversion to reading as reasons for this shift. Unfortunately, this reluctance to engage with books is having a ripple effect on the next generation. In fact, the survey found that only a third of fiveto-10 year-olds read for fun, a significant drop from over half of children who enjoyed reading in 2012. The statistics don’t lie – this decline is closely linked to the habits of their parents. Many Gen Z parents, who are now in their late 20s to early 30s, grew up in a digital age where screens were always at their fingertips. For them, reading can feel more like a chore than a cherished pastime. The reality is that these parents often lead extremely busy lives, juggling work commitments, social lives and the responsibilities of raising children. Longer work hours and the rising cost of living mean that parents are frequently stretched thin. In this environment, it’s easy to see why reading might fall by the wayside. After all, when you’re exhausted after a long day, curling up with a book may not seem as appealing as scrolling through social media or binge-watching a favourite show. Moreover, the allure of screens is hard to resist. From tablets to smartphones, children are surrounded by technology that often takes precedence over traditional reading. Parents too find themselves glued to their devices, leading to less quality time spent together. The irony is that while technology offers instant entertainment, it can also create a disconnect between parents and their children, depriving them of meaningful interactions. This shift in priorities is concerning because reading is not just an enjoyable pastime; it’s fundamental to a child’s development. Early exposure to books helps build language skills, From Books to Screens: The Reading Decline in Gen Z Families Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst, Fifi Kiwan, discusses the decline of reading amongst children and its importance to their development. cognitive development and a love for learning. When parents neglect to read to their kids, they miss out on creating essential bonding moments that foster emotional connections. Gen Z parents are the first generation to grow up in a world where technology is integrated into every aspect of life. While this offers convenience and access to information, it can also lead to a lack of engagement in more traditional forms of interaction. The result? A generation of children who may not appreciate the joy of a good book, simply because their parents didn’t model that behaviour.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 FASHION 14 Capsule Couture Bahrain’s Guide to Effortless F1 Chic Formula 1 season in Bahrain blends speed, style and sophistication. Aasiya Ria Khan explores how capsule wardrobes can deliver effortless elegance, comfort and F1-inspired chic throughout the Grand Prix weekend. When Formula 1 comes to Bahrain, it brings more than roaring engines and adrenaline. It ushers in a spectacle of glamour. At the Bahrain International Circuit, drivers test speed while fans, celebrities and fashion lovers showcase style against desert sands and dazzling lights. Unlike Monaco’s street-style buzz or Abu Dhabi’s high-gloss opulence, Bahrain paddock fashion speaks in a quieter voice: effortless, breathable and chic. This is where capsule wardrobes shine, offering elegance, comfort and a dash of F1 spirit. The beauty of a capsule wardrobe is its versatility. In Bahrain’s warm climate, light but polished looks are key. Neutral bases in beige, coffee, cream, grey or peach form the foundation easy to mix, understated and breathable. A crisp linen shirt tucked into tailored trousers delivers instant refinement while a pleated skirt brings femininity with ease. Long, flowing A-line dresses provide modesty and movement, perfect for strolling in the paddock by day and dining by night. For those who prefer traditional elegance, a plain kaftan in soft cotton or crepe offers effortless coverage with a modern silhouette. Capsule dressing doesn’t mean staying plain personality comes through in accents. Each F1 team carries a signature palette: Ferrari red, McLaren papaya, Mercedes silver and teal, Red Bull navy and yellow. Instead of loud merchandise, weave these colours subtly into your outfit. A silk scarf tied around the neck, a bold headband or a belt cinching a kaftan can nod to your team without overwhelming the look. Lightweight abayas in team hues float gracefully through the paddock, offering both style and movement. Accessories elevate the capsule. A structured handbag in Ferrari red is both statement and practical while shoes balance chic with comfort: With this capsule approach, a handful of pieces can carry you through the entire Grand Prix weekend: from daytime practice to twilight qualifying, night racing and after-race events. Swap skirts for trousers, sandals for sneakers or add a scarf for the evening. Each look feels fresh yet effortless. As engines roar across Sakhir’s track, your capsule wardrobe mirrors the efficiency of F1 teams: streamlined, purposeful and highperformance. Neutral bases create the canvas while bold accents paint the passion. The result? A race-day look that’s timeless, dynamic and unforgettable. block-heeled sandals, sleek sneakers or classic loafers. Minimal jewellery gold chains, pearl studs or a slim watch polishes the look without excess. The trick is balance: neutrals keep the outfit grounded while accents bring energy. Aasiya Ria Khan

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 BEAUTY 15 Every day I hear salon owners saying: “Fatima didn’t cover her salary.” “Anabel didn’t reach her target.” Let me tell you something: your staff cannot go in the street and bring clients. Their job is to do great service, increase the bill, upsell and make clients come back again. Your job as an owner is to bring clients to the salon. Target Culture and Staff Challenges 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 ? Marketing and Trained Staff Must Work Together If you don’t bring clients, how can your staff reach their target? And if staff are not well trained, even if you bring clients, they will not return. So it is two things working together: Owner’s role: marketing, promotions, visibility, energy. Staff’s role: well-trained, upsell, rebook, retail, take care of clients. • If you don’t do marketing ➡ staff cannot perform. • If staff are not trained ➡ marketing is wasted. The Simple Formula • Owner brings the clients in. • Staff make them spend more and come back. That’s it. Both sides together. My Advice for September • Do one good marketing campaign. • Create one add-on service to increase the bill. • Train staff to rebook every client before they leave. No. First ask yourself: did I bring enough clients this month? If not, they cannot reach targets. If staff don’t reach targets, should I cut their salary? If not enough clients come, it’s marketing. If clients come but don’t return or don’t spend, it’s staff training. Train them to upsell, suggest retail, rebook clients. But this only works if you, the owner, bring clients in. How do I know if it’s a marketing problem or staff problem? How can staff give more value? Let me add this from my own experience: I cannot shout it loud enough; staff are already under pressure when they work in a ‘target culture.’ It becomes even harder when targets are difficult to reach, while owners are not investing in marketing and training. Many times staff approach me and say: “Badia, I want to leave.” I feel sorry when I hear this, because it is not lack of talent, it is lack of balance. Targets are not the enemy. The real problem is when owners don’t bring clients and staff don’t get trained. Success comes only when both sides play their part. Leadership means taking responsibility, not blaming. I’ve seen too many salons lose great people because of this mistake. Don’t be the next one. Be the leader your team deserve.

womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2025 IN HER SHOES 16 IN HER SHOES This month, we take a walk in the shoes of Sofia Ikhlef, who shares insights into her role, strategic thinking and the values that guide her work. Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role? I’m Sofia Ikhlef, founder of Neia Solutions and Country Manager at SYMO. I lead digital projects across the Gulf, from custom websites and e-commerce platforms to mobile apps, helping brands grow, scale and stand out through innovation and strategic design. What does a typical workday look like for you? I start my day with sport to boost my mindset, then I follow a clear calendar, focused, structured and fully intentional. What drives and motivates you in your work? Creating impact, helping others grow and building digital ecosystems with meaning. What career milestones have been most defining for you? Winning the Women in Tech MENA Award 2024 and being a global finalist in Paris. If you weren’t in this role, what career path might you have taken instead? I would have been a writer or journalist, using words to inform, inspire and connect people. What’s one piece of advice you value most? “Who dares wins.” Launch, adapt and never give up; the biggest risk in life is never trying. Is there anything new or exciting on the horizon for you? Yes, I’m developing new digital platforms and co-founding BTCO, a cultural tradeshow connecting Arab designers with global markets. Sofia Ikhlef Founder of Neia Solutions and Country Manager at SYMO How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working? Beach walks, music, journaling and quality time with my family to fully disconnect. What’s one hobby or interest that surprises people? I’m passionate about writing and poetry, words are my favourite ways to capture ideas and emotions. Which book, podcast or film has inspired you recently? David Goggins. His mindset and podcasts keep me focused, disciplined and driven. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? For me, it’s about staying organised and not getting lost in work, I make it a priority to take time for myself because it’s essential. If you could instantly master a new skill, what would it be? Social media visuals that stop the scroll and tell a story in one glance Coffee or Tea? Tea Instagram or TikTok? Instagram Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset Bookworm or Netflix binge? Netflix Binge Weekend in Bahrain or Quick getaway abroad? Quick getaway abroad Beach day or Mountain escape? Mountain escape Heels or Trainers? Heels Classic elegance or bold statement style? Classic elegance

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