Breaking The Habit

Families coping with Drug Abuse

Dr. Abdel Nasser Omar talks to Cairo East Magazine about breaking the habit.

By Hilary Diack

Chances are you have recently been around someone living with an addiction. Surprised? Don’t be. According to Prof. Dr. Abdel Nasser Omar, CEO of Al Mashfa Hospital, the figures are startling. Out of 100 people, around 16 will try drugs, with 4 going on to become regular users, and 1 becoming an addict. Cairo East Magazine spent an informative couple of hours with Dr. Omar, learning more about who is most at risk, and how we can help.

CEM: Is addiction actually a disease?

AO: Yes, it is. Unfortunately the common perception is that addiction is a sign of undisciplined or anti-social behaviour, rather than something that needs expert help and the understanding of the patient’s family and circle of friends. The most vulnerable are the approximately 50% of addicts with a genetic predisposition, meaning that they are predisposed through inherited DNA to a susceptibility to drug addiction. The condition may be dormant until a stress-diathesis occurs, where genetic or biological factors interact with environmental stress, which results in the patient turning to drugs. An individual’s biological vulnerabilities, or predispositions, to particular psychological disorders can be triggered by stressful life events. If the individual is resilient or has low biological vulnerability for a particular disorder, it would take extremely high levels of stress to trigger symptoms of that disorder. On the other hand, if the individual has high biological vulnerability to the disorder, then it would take lower levels of stress for symptoms to be exhibited.

Are there certain personality patterns that occur in people suffering from addiction?

Those at the highest risk are with borderline personality disorder (BPD), with a pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image and emotions. People with borderline personality disorder are also usually very impulsive. This disorder occurs in most by early adulthood. We also see histrionic and narcissistic personalities, manifesting in anti-social tendencies. With narcissism the patient feels that he is superior to those around him and lacks empathy, when a histrionic personality is in place everything is over-dramatized and the subject has extreme emotional reactions. An addictive personality can often indulge in binge-eating, escapism, and stimulants like coffee and chocolate that elevate serotonin and dopamine levels in the body. Addicts actually often have a lower than normal level of these to start with, which can lead to a depressive state, so the drugs they take are used to get a boost in mood.

What are the signs to watch out for if one thinks that a friend or family member may have become involved with drugs?

The early signs are behavioural changes such as mood shifts, increased aggression with outbursts of anger, suspicion and over-sensitivity. The person’s sleep patterns may change, they may ignore responsibilities as they set up their lifestyle to seek drugs. Academic and social deterioration of young family members are important warning signs that should grasp attention.

How can we help when we think a family member might be getting involved with drugs?

The family dynamic is very important, we often see a person escaping into drug use if they belong to a high Emotional Expression family where communication is typically critical and hostile. Equally, a strictly controlled or overly protective environment can be as much of a problem. Through creating a healthier, balanced and supportive family interaction and avoiding vilification of the person it will form a stronger base. We must remember that addiction is an illness, not bad behaviour by choice.

What are the most commonly used drugs?

The most commonly used are marijuana and hashish, both with the active component, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The more affluent sectors of the community tend to use hashish, while marijuana, known colloquially as “weed” or “bango”, use is more prolific in rural and lower-income areas. It should be noted that most smokers of cannabis start with cigarette smoking, often at an early age. Recently there has been an increase of freebase cocaine, which is widely available and decreasing in price, making it more attractive to users. Cocaine is a stimulant and appetite suppressant with highly addictive components. There is also widespread use of synthetic opiates like Tramadol which produce a sense of wellbeing, euphoria and increased energy that can be addictive to some people. Under correct medical supervision opiates are legitimately used for treating pain, but when the medical need has passed many people continue by self-medicating and develop tolerance, meaning they need more and more to get the same effect. With relatively easy access to these synthetic opiates it is not uncommon for people go on to develop an addiction. Another drug group, benzodiazepines, includes Diazepam, which is medically prescribed for treatment of anxiety disorders, seizures, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal. Xanax is another medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, and again should only be used under medical supervision. Benzodiazepines, in some patients, create a rapid tolerance in the body, after as few as three or four weeks a higher dosage might be required to get the initial effect.

This is just the tip of the iceberg; many other substances and drugs circulate in Egypt, including sniffing sprays, “skulls” (MDMA) amphetamine tablets, and a synthetic cannabis extract named “spice”, all peddled in schools to young children. Self-medication is becoming a serious issue, and the ready availability of these items does not help. Alcohol abuse is on the rise again, as a real problem amongst the youth of Egypt.

Going back to marijuana, it has become de-criminalized and even legalized in several locations recently, in addition to being authorized for medical use. What is your perspective on this?

Cannabis has definite dangers, although it may be considered a “soft” drug in some cultures. It affects the neuro-transmitters and has addictive qualities. It stays in the system for anything from 30 to 45 days, hence the lack of obvious withdrawal symptoms. Studies have shown that frequent use can lead to paranoia and anti-social behaviour. Some countries that have semi-legalised cannabis use may be implementing “damage control”, by allowing freer access to a less dangerous option, in the hope that people will then avoid turning to heavier substances like cocaine and heroin. Unfortunately this is not always the case, cannabis is the most common gateway drug to many of the more addictive and lethal drugs out there. It must also be noted that the form of cannabis administered medically, mainly as pain relief for sufferers of cancer, is not in smoking form and is an orally consumed derivative prescribed by a doctor.

Are addicts generally addicted to just one drug?

Some people are, they have a specific drug of choice, while others will take whatever is on offer. It is important to understand some points when a person undergoes a withdrawal programme, one addiction can lead to other addictions, and one drug can make a person relapse with another drug. For example, if you want to stop using cocaine then you have to stop using all addictive drugs. Recovery requires total abstinence.

What is involved in a recovery programme?

We use a 12 step programme, designed to help individuals create new life that does not involve drugs. We use a community based treatment along with physical withdrawal, with the patient under the care of psychiatrists and psychologists. An essential factor is creating a total change of environment and reduction of stress. A change of lifestyle is implemented, with distancing from any peer group that encouraged drug use.

How long does treatment take, and what is the rate of relapse?

The risk of relapse is high; it takes a lot of patience and persistence from the addict and his or her family, as well as the medical and psychiatric support team, to maintain abstinence. It is important to enable a productive lifestyle, with the right sort of pleasure-giving and stimulating activities, to avoid the patient slipping back into depression and boredom. The patient remains at risk for a long time, there are many situations that could trigger a relapse, but the longer they can stay “clean” the much better the prospects. Again, it cannot be stressed enough, the support and understanding of family, friends, and community around them is a vital component in enabling a return to a drug-free and productive lifestyle.

Mango Madness

Coconut fried shrimp with Mango Dip

 

Ingredients

Tangy Mango Sauce

1 Large ripe mango, peeled and pitted

2 Tablespoons rice vinegar (unseasoned)

2 Tablespoons honey

1 Teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Coconut Shrimp

500gm Large raw tail-on shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/3 Cup honey

2 Teaspoons soy sauce

2 Teaspoons hot chili oil

2 Cups flaked coconut

 

Method

Purée mango together with vinegar, honey and ginger in a blender or food processor; set aside. Preheat oven to 200°C and spray a large baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Rinse shrimp and pat very dry between paper towels. In a medium bowl stir together honey, soy sauce and chili oil. Dip shrimp in mixture then roll in coconut, pressing so that it sticks to the shrimp; place on baking sheet and sprinkle with some of the excess coconut. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes or until shrimp is firm and coconut is golden brown. Carefully remove from baking sheet with a spatula to a platter. Serve mango sauce on the side for dipping.

 

Mango & Avocado Salad

 

Ingredients

3-5 Teaspoons fish sauce

1 Teaspoon freshly grated lime zest, plus more for garnish

2 Tablespoons lime juice

1 Tablespoon vegetable oil

2 Teaspoons light brown sugar

1 Teaspoon rice vinegar

1/4 Teaspoon crushed red pepper

1 Medium cucumber, diced

1 Avocado, diced

1 Mango, diced

1/4 Cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Method

In a large bowl, put fish sauce with lime zest, lime juice, oil, brown sugar, vinegar and crushed red pepper to taste, whisk until evenly combined. Add cucumber, avocado, mango and parsley; gently toss to coat. Serve garnished with lime zest, if desired.

Kids Movies Out now

Kids Movies Out now

By Manal Abdel Rehim

 

Maleficent

Angelina Jolie stars as Maleficent in one of next year’s most anticipated films. It is a retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale from the perspective of the evil fairy herself. It looks at the events that hardened her heart and drove her to curse Princess Aurora, played by Elle Fanning, and Jolie’s own daughter Vivienne Jolie-Pitt as the young Princess.

 

How to Train Your Dragon 2

Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) and Toothless return to the screen in the sequel to How to Train Your Dragon. The story picks up five years after the duo united the dragons and vikings of the island of Berk, no longer enemies, the island’s new favourite sport is dragon racing. While they are busy racing, Hiccup and Toothless are off exploring new worlds when they stumble upon the mysterious Dragon Rider and hundreds of wild dragons living inside a secret ice cave. The pair get caught in the middle of battle and must once again find a way to unite man and dragons. Starring America Ferrera, Kristen Wiig, Gerard Butler, Jonah Hill, and Cate Blanchett.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Apparently there is nothing “bouncy and fun” about Michael Bay’s reworking of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) into an action-packed movie. An alien invasion on Earth accidently spawns the four famous mutated reptilian warriors we know as the Ninja Turtles, who rise up to protect humans from the invasion. Starring William Fichtner as Shredder, Megan Fox as April, and Will Arnett.

 

The Boxtrolls

A young orphaned boy raised by underground cave-dwelling trash collectors tries to save his friends from an evil exterminator. Based on the children’s novel Here Be Monsters by Alan Snow. Starring Elle Fanning as the voice of Winnie, Simon Pegg, Toni Collette, and Ben Kingsley as the voice of Archibald Snatcher.

 

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Ever had one of those days when you should have just stayed in bed? That is the story of Alexander, a young boy who wakes up with gum in his hair, undoubtedly a bad start to any day, but things go from bad to worse as the day progresses. Starring Steve Carell, Jennifer Garner and Ed Oxenbould from Puberty Blues as Alexander.

There’s Something About Aliaa

There’s Something About Aliaa

Fashion Blogger and Stylist Aliaa Elesseily

By Lydia Schoonderbeek

 

Thanks to social media sites like Instagram, fashion blogging has become a legitimate authority on all things stylish and fashionable. In some cases, bloggers have made a career out of fashion blogging, and have nabbed front row seats at fashion weeks across the world. Fashion bloggers have even been able to monetize their passion through brand promotions on their site. This month, Cairo East Magazine sat down with fashion blogger extraordinaire Aliaa Elesseily to learn more about what is now becoming an integral part of the global fashion industry.

CEM: Hi Aliaa, could you start by telling us a bit about yourself.  

AE: : I started my career at an advertising agency (Leo Burnett) where I only worked for 3 months, and I didn’t it enjoy at the time. I then got a job opportunity to become a stylist on TV commercials, which eventually led to me becoming a stylist on fashion shoots for 11 years. During this time, I travelled to London and I took some courses in styling, brand management and professional make up lessons at The London College of Fashion. I then came back, which is when my husband suggested that I take pictures of myself and document it online. I started to post my pictures on Instagram only for my friends. It was lots of fun and I realized that I could turn my Instagram page into a place where I would share my daily outfits and so it expanded.  Around this time, I started getting calls from women in the Middle East to becoming their personal stylist. I’ve travelled to Dubai and London to help these women shop. I have so much fun doing it, especially when you see your clients evolve with their clothes. I have also started working with actors in Egypt namely Ahmed Ezz, and I love styling him. He is very experimental with his clothes, and we’re constantly brainstorming outfits together for shoots that he will be working on.

How would you describe your own personal style?

I don’t have a particular style since I wear what I like and that changes from time to time. It also depends on how I’m feeling on the day. I have a thing for colors, and I love playing with clothes. So you can say that my style is a unique mixture of multicolored and romantic trends.

What do you think will be the big hits fashion wise for next season?

On most catwalks I’ve seen leather for the summer and of course lots of color. Also cut out boots, can still be worn during the summer months with denim shorts.

Where do you tend to buy your clothes, and why?

I adore shopping in London! The first place I must visit is Topshop. I generally pick little boutiques to shop that have particular items. For example when I went to Ibiza I came across this headpiece, which was a bird, and I got to wear it at an amazing party in Cairo. My favorite designer brands are of course Chanel, and Alexander McQueen. All Saints, Adidas for Stella Mcartney, River Island and Sass & Bide. I also love shopping at Matches in London, as they stock the most beautiful items from most of the contemporary designers.

What do you splurge on? 

“A girl can never have enough shoes and bags,” as the saying goes, I agree. Also any designer accessory is a must in my closet, and a leather jacket. If purchased correctly they can always be timeless pieces.

Do you have any fashion rules when putting an outfit together?

No, I hate rules! But there are some things you need to consider for example: If you’re short, and wearing jeans, you can’t wear beige boots, as it cuts off your legs. Also white t-shirts with a white bra are a big no no!

Where do you find the inspiration for your blog posts?

I play it by ear.

Is there a person that is a fashion inspiration to you?

Miroslava Duma is my inspiration; she’s the super glam former Harper’s Bazaar Russia editor.

Do you find it difficult dressing creatively in Cairo?  

Yes of course, it’s very difficult to try to dress in Cairo. You ruin your outfit because you can’t wear certain things.

You have a lot of followers on your blog how did you achieve this? 

It takes a very long time to get followers and also a big part of it is word of mouth. I currently have 11, 000 followers.

What’s the biggest tip you have for anyone wanting to start a fashion blog or website?

You must love what you’re doing. Sometimes I need to push myself; there is a lot of work and preparation involved.

Who does your amazing photography?

That’s so sweet of you, thank you! My husband takes all of my pictures. He is the one that inspired me to push my love for fashion to the next level, and is always very supportive. We sometimes meet for lunch or a coffee and he will take a picture of me. It’s very hard in Cairo to take pictures as there aren’t many places, and we just do our best.

How important is it for your self-expression and sense of identity to make a fashion statement in the way you dress?

I make people happy, I get people coming up to me all the time telling me they love the way I dress, it makes them smile. I have a very approachable and fun look; it breaks the barrier with my followers.

Do you ever have down-days when you just throw on the nearest clean items that come to hand?

I have lots of days where I don’t want to put in the effort. I used to post a picture every day, and but I have stopped as it doesn’t come very easily and I care about quality and not quantity.

Nile Art Gallery

Nile Art Gallery

Presents Wael Darwish

 

Artist CV

Born 1975 in Cairo, lives and works in Cairo

Exhibitions

• Participated in numerous group exhibitions in Egypt since 1998, including notable events organized by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and Bibliotheca Alexandrina

• Participated in group exhibitions in France, Germany, Sweden, Italy, India and the United Arab Emirates

• Had more than 15 solo exhibitions in Egypt, Slovenia, Croatia and the United Arab Emirates since 2002

 

 

Awards & Prizes

• 2010    1st prize, 15th Lind Art International Young Artists Fine Arts Colony

• 2003    Grand Prize, 13th Salon of Young Artists, Egypt

• 2002    5th International Ceramics Biennale, Cairo, Egypt

• 2000    Jury Prize, All-Egyptian Artists Exhibition, Egypt

• 1999    Jury Prize, 11th Salon of Young Artists, Egypt

• 1998    1st prize, 10th Salon of Young Artists, Egypt

Art Residencies

Darwish took part in four art residencies in Bulgaria, Hungary, Turkey and Slovenia from 2010 to 2012.

Greatest Soccer Players Of All Time

By Ahmed Salah

 

Pele (1956-1977)

 

Pele was born in October 1940 as Edson Arantes do Nascimento to Dondinho and Dona Celeste Arantes, his friends started calling him Pele after his favourite football player Vasco da Gama ‘Bile’, whom he mispronounced as ‘Pele’. Pele’s father was also a soccer player.

Throughout his illustrious career both on and off the pitch, Pele has remained a true ambassador of the game. Making his club debut for Santos at the age of 15 in 1956, he remained with the club until 1974. Although facts and figures could never do justice to the majesty that was Pele, his 1,281 goals in all competitions certainly serve to prove the point. He helped lead Santos to nine State Championships, and claimed two consecutive World Club Championships in 1962 and 1963.

There is no player who can claim greater success on the world stage. Pele made his international debut at the tender age of 16. A year later and his teammates pressured the national coaching staff to include the 17-year-old in the 1958 World Cup squad. Kept out of the majority of the tournament due to injury, Pele came on in Brazil’s pool match against the Soviet Union. In the quarterfinals, Pele scored the winner against Wales, a hat trick in the semi-finals against France, and two in the final against Sweden. Brazil won the 1958 World Cup, and a star was born. Out with injury for the 1962 World Cup, Pele returned to the national squad and claimed one more World Cup title in 1970. Voted the Century’s Greatest Footballer along with Diego Maradona, Pele has continued to be an inspiration to the “the beautiful game.”

Diego Maradona (1976-1997)

 

Diego Armando Maradona Born in 1960 in a shack so rickety that when it rained it was wetter inside than out, raised in one room with seven siblings, Maradona became the only man to win a World Cup virtually by himself. More than that: his skill and personality dominated a generation of World Cups.

His first World Cup came in 1982, but ended in disgrace when he was sent off for kicking the Brazilian Batista in the testicles. Mexico in 1986 was to be his zenith.

His ‘Hand of God’ goal against England at the 1986 World Cup and the stunning solo effort that followed sum up this flawed genius better than any words. Maradona did not always play by the rules, and confesses that his expulsion from the 1994 World Cup after testing positive for ephedrine is one of his saddest memories. But the Maradona that captained Argentina to the 1986 World Cup and helped unfashionable Napoli to Serie A titles in 1987 and 1990 was irrepressible.

Johan Cruyff (1964-1984)

 

Johan Cruyff (also known as Johan Cruijff), was born in Amsterdam in 1947 a few hundred meters from the Ajax stadium. He began hanging around the club as a toddler. His father, Manus, a grocer, supplied Ajax with fruit, and after Manus died when Cruyff was twelve, Cruyff’s mother cleaned Ajax’s locker rooms.

The skinny waif debuted for the first team at 17. Ajax was then a semi-professional club, barely known outside the Netherlands, but within a few years Cruyff and Ajax’s manager Rinus Michels turned it into the world’s best team. The duo invented a new kind of soccer, which foreigners called “Total football.” Players swapped positions at great speed, creating an unprecedented fluidity of play. In the midst of it was Cruyff, constantly changing position, pointing and shouting directions at others even while he dribbled past opponents.

Ajax won three straight European Cups from 1971 through 1973, and each time Cruyff was voted European Player of the Year. But he was an opinionated and difficult man, and quarrels punctuated his career. In 1973, after his teammates voted him out of Ajax’s captaincy, he fled to Barcelona. The club swiftly won its first Spanish title in fourteen years.

Cruyff is best remembered as the guide of Holland’s great team at the World Cup of 1974, though sadly the lost final against West Germany was his worst match of the tournament. In 1978, aged only 31, he decided for family reasons to skip the World Cup in Argentina. He retired from soccer that year, but then discovered that he had lost his money in terrible investments, and had to return. He played five more brilliant years for the Los Angeles Aztecs, Washington Diplomats, Ajax, and finally Ajax’s great rival Feyenoord Rotterdam, before retiring at age 37

Franz Beckenbauer (1964-1984)

 

Athlete Franz Anton Beckenbauer was born on September 11, 1945, in Munich, West Germany. Like many children growing up in the war-torn country, he was inspired by West Germany’s triumph in the 1954 World Cup. He joined the SC 1906 München youth team that year, and in 1959 he began his long relationship with FC Bayern Munich as a member of the club’s junior squad.

Franz Beckenbauer revolutionized the role of attacking sweeper during his days at Bayern Munich and led them to the 1967 Cup Winners’ Cup, as well as three consecutive European Cups from 1974 to 1976. In his time at Bayern, the club dominated the Bundesliga, winning the league title four times. His incredible form for club and country earned him the European Footballer of the Year award in 1972 and 1976.

The first player in West German history to reach 100 international caps, Beckenbauer burst onto the scene in the 1966 World Cup, scoring four goals for his side before losing the final in extra-time to England. Part of the squad that reached the 1970 World Cup final match, he continued to dominate in the early ‘70s, as he captained West Germany to the 1972 European Championship and 1974 World Cup titles. Beckenbauer, who is currently president of Bayern Munich, would go on to succeed at the managerial level, taking West Germany to the 1986 World Cup final match and lifting the trophy with the squad four years later in Italy. In terms of innovation and success on the pitch, “The Kaiser” is clearly in a class all his own.

Michel Platini (1973-1987)

 

Michel François Platini was born on June 21, 1955, in Joeuf, France. His father, Aldo, was a professional soccer player who became director of the AS Nancy club, and young Platini sought to follow in his footsteps. He joined the AS Joeuf youth team as an 11-year-old, and landed with Nancy as a reserve at age 17.

Michel Platini is arguably one of the best midfielders ever produced by the European continent. Having scored 98 goals over seven years for Nancy, Platini moved on to Turin giants Juventus in 1982, from French side St. Etienne. He quickly endeared himself to the Italian fans twice, leading Juventus to the Italian Championship and claiming three top-scoring titles. It was no surprise when he was named European Footballer of the Year for three consecutive seasons, from 1983 to 1985.

France’s golden boy went on to represent his country a total of 72 times, with a record 41 goals for his country. Platini played a major role in the golden age of French football, claiming a fourth-place finish in the 1982 World Cup and the bronze medal four years later. It’s rumoured that Michel Platini’s passion for the game took a turn following the 1985 Heysel disaster in Brussels, where Juventus claimed the European Cup on Platini’s penalty kick. Following an unsuccessful stint as national coach in 1990, Platini has continued to be a strong proponent of quality football, playing a large part in France’s successful hosting of the 1998 World Cup finals.

Zinedine Zidane (1992-2006)

 

“Yazid,” as his Algerian immigrant family called him, was born in a poor neighbourhood of Marseilles in 1972.  Zidane learned to play soccer in the streets of La Castellane, a rough section of Marseille. After starring for local youth clubs, 14-year-old Zidane was discovered at a French Football Federation training camp by AS Cannes recruiter Jean Varraud, and spent the next three years honing his skills in Cannes’ youth division.

Aged 22, he marked his debut for France with two goals. Two years later he joined Juventus, where he won the Italian league but lost two straight Champions League finals. By the time France reached the World Cup final against Brazil in 1998, “Zizou” was known as a great but unfulfilled talent. But on match day, France’s manager, Aimé Jacquet, noting that the Brazilians did not mark tightly on corners, advised him to “take a stroll towards the front post.” Zidane headed home two corners, and France won 3-0. Afterward his face was projected onto the Arc de Triomphe, above the words, “Merci Zizou.” Inevitably he won the 1998 Ballon d’Or for European Footballer of the Year. When he then led France to victory at Euro 2000, he secured his spot as French national icon of his era. He regularly topped the newspaper Journal du Dimanche’s periodic vote for most popular Frenchman.

Zidane almost inspired a flawed French team to a second World Cup, but late in the final, after Marco Materazzi allegedly questioned the virtue of his female relatives, Zidane headbutted the Italian and was sent off.

Cristiano Ronaldo ( 2002 – )

 

Born Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro on February 5, 1985, in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, a small island off the western coast of the country, Ronaldo is the youngest of four children born to Maria Dolores dos Santos and Jose Dinis Aveiro. He was named after Ronald Reagan, a favourite actor of his father’s.

Ronaldo grew up in a largely working class neighbourhood, his home a small tin roofed shack that overlooked the ocean. His early life was shaped by hardship; his father, a gardener, often drank too much, and eventually died from kidney problems in 2005. Ronaldo’s mother worked as a cook and cleaner.

By his early teens, Ronaldo’s talent and legend had grown considerably. After a stint with Nacional da liha da Madeira, he signed with Sporting Portugal in 2001. That same year, at the tender age of 16, Ronaldo turned heads with a mesmerizing performance against Manchester United, wowing even his opponents with his footwork and deft skill. He made such an impression that a number of United players asked their manager to try and sign the young player. It wasn’t long before the club paid Ronaldo’s team more than £12 million for his services – a record fee for a player of his age.

In Manchester, first as a winger and later as a striker, he racked up the prizes: three straight league titles from 2007 through 2009, and the Champions League in 2008. That night in Moscow he scored United’s only goal with a header, but missed his penalty in the shootout. He won the 2008 Ballon d’Or for European Footballer of the year.

In 2009 Real Madrid bought him for a world record transfer fee of $132 million. In hindsight, Ronaldo might have done better to stay at United. The team he joined was a disjointed outfit with too many stars. Even after Jose Mourinho became manager, Madrid could rarely match Barcelona. Since moving to Spain, Ronaldo has won just one Spanish Cup. Meanwhile Portugal has gone into decline.

Often apparently despairing of his teammates (as his perma-frown makes all too clear), he has become more of an individualist, shooting from all angles, but with brilliant results: it took him just over two years to notch 100 goals for Madrid. A ballet dancer built like a truck, he is the ultimate mix of power, grace and style. To move up the rankings, he needs just a couple more big trophies.

Leonil Messi ( 2003 – )

 

Lionel Messi was born Luis Lionel Andres Messi on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. As a young boy, he tagged along when his two older brothers played soccer with their friends. At the age of 8, he was recruited to join the youth system of Newell’s Old Boys, a Rosario-based club. Recognizably smaller than most of the kids in his age group, Messi was eventually diagnosed by doctors as suffering from a hormone deficiency that restricted his growth.

Messi’s parents, Jorge and Ceclia, decided on a regimen of nightly growth-hormone injections for their son, though it soon proved impossible to pay several hundred dollars per month for the medication. So, at the age of 13, when Messi was offered the chance to train at soccer powerhouse FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, and have his medical bills covered by the team, Messi’s family picked up and moved across the Atlantic to make a new home in Spain.

Although he was often homesick in his new country, Messi moved quickly through the junior system ranks, and by the age of 16, he had made his first appearance for Barcelona. Messi put himself in the record books on May 1, 2005, as the youngest player to ever score a goal for the franchise. That same year, he led Argentina to the title in the under-20 World Cup, scoring on a pair of penalty kicks to propel the team over Nigeria.

Messi eventually grew to 5 feet and 7 inches, and with his short stature, speed and relentless attacking style, he drew comparisons to another famous Argentinean footballer: Diego Maradona. Messi steered Barcelona to a wealth of success, most notably in 2009, when the left-footer’s team captured the Champions League, La Liga, and Spanish Super Cup titles. That same year, after two consecutive runner-up finishes, he took home his first FIFA “World Player of the Year” honor/Ballon d’Or award.

Even the great Maradona gushed about his fellow countryman. “I see him as very similar to me,” the retired player told the BBC. “He’s a leader and is offering lessons in beautiful football. He has something different to any other player in the world.”

 

All information is sourced from: biography.com

In Depth with Mrs. Mani Suri

Wife of Indian Ambassador to Egypt

By Francesca Sullivan

The residence of the Indian ambassador dates back to 1948, it was one of the first properties acquired by the Indian government following India’s Independence. Its elegant panelled drawing rooms that overlook the flowing Nile are tastefully punctuated by personal artefacts. Some are reminders of India: paintings, wall hangings and a decorative swing in the entrance hall; bowls of flower petals, and sculptures by none other than the lady of the house. Then, somewhat unexpectedly, a boisterous shaggy-haired puppy bounds in, lending the otherwise formal residence a relaxed aura of family normality. Mrs Mani Suri, dressed for a lunch appointment in an elegant sari, sends the reluctant dog away before sitting down to answer questions. The life of an ambassador’s wife does not, it seems, always follow a typical pattern. Mrs. Suri told Cairo West Magazine what makes hers just that little bit different.

 

 

How long have you been here in Cairo?

It will be two years this summer. But this is actually not our first time in Cairo. Back in 1984 we were here on our very first posting. My husband was in the Foreign Service and had studied at the American University here as a language student. We were just married. We stayed three years.

Which other postings have you enjoyed the most?

Actually I have no favourites. I enjoy each place for what it offers; that is part of living this kind of life successfully. From Cairo we went to Damascus, then to the USA, Tanzania, London and South Africa, with spells in Delhi in between. But Cairo certainly occupies a special place in our hearts because we have come back to it, and have friends here from before. Of course there have been many changes since the first time we were here, just as there have been in India. More traffic, and a lot of building over land that was once just fields. But despite what the Egyptian people have gone through in recent years they remain the same: friendly, warm and hospitable. They love life and know how to enjoy it.

What is your typical daily schedule?

Like any other diplomatic spouse I attend a certain amount of coffee mornings, lunches and so on. But I also have another job; since 2007 I’ve been employed as a graphic designer by a company in Delhi. When we were stationed in the US I did a degree in communication design at the George Mason University in Virginia. I also paint and do pottery and sculpture. I have a studio here in the residence, and most of my mornings I spend in there working. Back in Delhi they say that I have the best of both worlds!

There is a certain amount of entertaining. It’s always good to meet people, but although I probably shouldn’t say this, entertaining just for the sake of it becomes boring. Initially when you are in a new place you invite people and out of that you make connections and form new friendships. Evenings I keep for diplomatic duties, to support my husband.

What do you miss most about India?

When you’ve been doing this job for thirty years you tend not to miss home; it becomes a lifestyle. Of course there are some friends and work colleagues that I miss – and some of the shopping opportunities in Delhi – but in general you concentrate on the positives in each place you are posted to.

 

Recently there has been a Festival of Indian Culture in Cairo. Were you involved in that?

Very much so, in fact I did all the design for it, producing the graphics for the posters and publicity. I also got involved in the programme itself – and even went on stage in a musical production playing a small role as a mother. I always enjoyed acting on stage when I was a student.

 

 

What is your favourite destination to travel to in Egypt?

We’ve been lucky enough to travel around the country a lot, and seen most of the historic sites – even had some of the closed tombs in the Valley of the Kings opened especially for us, and that was amazing. I was fascinated by the energy inside those places. I also loved the White Desert and camping out under the stars. I remember walking outside the tent in the middle of the night and just being in awe of the place and looking at the stars. But perhaps my favourite destination of all is the Red Sea, the beaches and the sheer beauty of the marine life. Gorgeous!

 

What is your favourite kind of music?

That totally depends on my mood. When I’m working in my studio I tend to listen to classical Indian music. When I go out at night I can enjoy many kinds of music, including jazz, and anything I can dance to.

Your preferred mode of dress?

Comfortable cotton-wear that’s cool in hot weather. That’s how I am dressed around the house and in my studio – with Crocs on! I’m probably too casual on the whole, and I get accused of that sometimes. On the other hand I love my saris, and getting dressed in them in the evenings.

 

 

What was the last film you saw at the cinema?

I am not really a movie person. I remember when we were here the first time Indian cinema was popular in Egypt, and recently my husband has been instrumental in promoting it here again. So the last film I actually saw at the movie theatre was Jinna Express, an Indian movie shown here in Cairo about six months ago.

The last book you read?

When I do read I like fiction and I am a fan of the novelist Amitab Ghosh. His books are very well researched, in historical settings.

Do you have time for hobbies?

My pottery is the thing I love doing when I have free time. For me it is like a kind of meditation, my way to connect with myself. I always begin by just being still with my eyes closed and the clay in my hands, waiting to see what comes.

 

Do you have a pet peeve?

One thing that really annoys me is when people try to be what they are not.

 

Favourite scent?

I don’t really have one. Anything that smells nice! I am a simple person, and not at all into brands.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

I’ll never forget when I was about eight years-old, a person came to our school whose job was to take care of elderly and homeless people. He told us, “All of you are receiving a proper education, but remember that the best lesson you can learn is to treat a poor person like a rich one; never change yourself according to who you are talking to.” Also my father, who was a warm hearted person, used to say, “Welcome everyone into your home with open arms, that way you will always be given more.”

 

What is your best habit?

When people work for me I always give them full liberty to do their job, without interference.

Your worst habit?

I worry too much about small things, and I can be obsessive, especially about cleanliness and tidiness.

Favourite App?

I’m fond of WhatsApp and Messenger, but actually I’m addicted to games – in fact maybe that is really my worst habit! It can be Candy Crush, or Sudoku, I get easily hooked.

What can’t you live without?

My husband. We have always complemented each other in everything we do.

What is the secret of happiness for you?

Being connected to your inner self. Having the freedom to do things the way you want to. To live and let live.

 

Transforming The Outdoors With Landscape Design

By Francesca Sullivan

If you are fortunate enough to have a garden, this is the time of year you’re likely to be using it the most. But are you getting the best out of your outdoor space? According to Khaled Shokry of Palm Gardens, one of three garden landscape artists contributing to this special feature on garden design, the past decade has seen a re-birth in the field, with more and more Egyptians moving outdoors to enjoy their leisure time. Here’s a taste of what Shokry, Yehia Sherbiny (Genenti), and Ismail Niazi (Land Designers) have to offer, along with answers to some common questions.

 

 

CWM: What services do you offer?

YS: At Genenti we offer a complete soft-scaping service depending on the specific needs of each project and client. Whether you’re designing your garden or commercial space from scratch, or are looking to renew and add some exotic plants to your landscape, we offer design consultancy, plant distribution, irrigation and lighting systems, and follow up with the execution of the work to the highest standards.

IN: We offer full landscape architectural design services covering conceptual design up to construction drawings and specifications. This can include hard and soft-scaping, decking and paving, water features, lighting and irrigation systems, as well as horticulture.

KS: We provide a full range of services from full design to turnkey, plus everything in between including architecture, lighting, implementation, plantation and also ongoing maintenance. We’ve had some of our clients for over ten years, while others pay for a one-off session with drawings, concepts and ideas, but then can’t necessarily afford to get us to do the work, so they may contract that later from a cheaper source.

 

What materials do you most commonly use?

YS: We mostly provide horticultural material, ranging from exotic palms, trees and colourful ground covers, a wide variety of which are produced and supplied by our two nurseries.

IN: Many different materials. Our designs combine elements such as stone, water, planting and lighting to create mood. This can vary greatly since the materials of the original building, light levels, views and client tastes all contribute to the end product. Just as a painting can change considerably based on where you place it. Paint can be attractive to certain people but not others, this is a matter of personal taste.

KS: My job as a landscaper is to fulfil the requirements of clients whilst at the same time respecting the architecture of the place. For example the outside should be a continuation of the inside to achieve a harmonious feeling as you walk through. At the same time I pride myself on utilizing the latest innovations in materials, for example I am currently encouraging clients to use high-end porcelain as flooring. There’s been a revolution in this material with a great choice of finishings, colors and patterns. It’s stronger than marble and doesn’t stain. In Egypt we have a high level of salinity and sodium in the water, which causes discolouration especially in natural materials – but not on porcelain.

 

What new lighting and hydrating technology is available in Egypt?

YS: A continuous and controlled water source is an integral part in any soft-scape work. The infrastructure settings of irrigation systems have not gone through much development in recent years. However the new battery and solar energy operated irrigation system control units now available help combat the continuous cuts in power supply to residential and commercial units. Our designs take into consideration the amount of light distribution and we generally recommend using LED lighting to reduce electricity consumption.

IN: LED lighting is increasingly changing how people design the landscape because of the reduction of electrical consumption and ongoing cost. Irrigation moisture sensors are contributing to a reduced use of water and thus preserving this increasingly scarce resource.

KS: More than four years ago I switched to using only LED lighting in my designs. It reduces electricity bills by around eighty per cent, allows a much more architectural feel to the light, with a stronger range and easy control of angles and colors. Old style lighting units can sometimes heat up so much they burn the trees or vegetation; LED is safer. In terms of hydration there hasn’t been much change over the past two decades. There are innovative new techniques such as under-lining the garden so it collects and recycles water, but they are too costly for most clients.

 

What needs to be taken into account when working with the climate and environment in Egypt?

YS: While climate dictates the range of horticultural elements, which can be used in particular areas across the country, it’s not the only factor. Soil composition, water and nutrient needs also differ depending on each plant. To understand this properly you have to study each species’ original habitat and how far it can adjust to the local environment. Other factors include how the area itself is being used, for example is it for a public or residential area, and what are the hard-scape elements; swimming pools, buildings and so on. Each client and site has individual requirements.

NI: Saving on water consumption is an increasingly important issue for environmental preservation but also for the running cost of a garden. People in similar climates throughout the world have already adopted drought tolerant planting to reduce water requirements on a daily basis. Egypt is slowly moving in this direction but mostly with large-scale projects such as hotels and shopping malls.

KS: One new innovation in garden design is the development of really good-looking artificial grass. It’s initially expensive and some people may hate the idea, but to be really eco-friendly and lower water consumption you should consider using low maintenance materials like sand and artificial grass – that’s what I’ve done in my own place.

 

Which plants do you find most suitable, and which ones have to be used with care?

IN: Egypt is blessed with abundant sunshine and, in the past, an abundance of cheap water. In the past many gardens contained mostly tropical varieties because clients wanted a lush garden. Environmentally however, it is more suitable to use more drought tolerant varieties native to the Mediterranean region, or even go more of the way of a desert style garden. This does not necessarily mean that you will have a less lush looking garden though.

KS: Palms remain the best plants to use in sub-tropical climates. They’re easy to maintain, only require a medium amount of water, and have a non-aggressive root system. (The exception to this is the date palm, which has an extensive root system and will suck up copious amounts of water if it can). But there are many other varieties to choose from. Do your own research when buying plants from nurseries, and don’t necessarily believe what they tell you. Their main objective is to sell!

 

 

 

What special elements like water features and rockeries can you include in your designs?

NI: As a design firm we can provide endless possibilities, and have created most things, including water features, rock gardens, roof gardens and many other elements.

YS: Our focus is on the horticulture, irrigation systems, potted plants and their maintenance, and how clients can make the best out of the intended area. But we also provide consultancy services for integrating other elements such as rockeries, lighting, water features and gazebos.

KS: We do everything, and are well aware that at the high end of the market our clients travel, look in magazines, check out hotel gardens abroad, and often come back with photographs of things they’ve seen and like. There are new trends, and Egypt has seen a re-birth of landscaping over the last ten to fifteen years. Now that so many people are moving out to areas such as Sixth of October, they are increasingly looking to take advantage of this to live in their outdoor spaces – in the same way as they would in their summer homes on the coast.

 

What are the common problems people encounter when maintaining their gardens?

IN: You must look ahead to the future and make sure the maintenance company is going to successfully maintain the irrigation system, has the required knowledge in regard to pruning, fertilizes the garden regularly, and keeps things clean and orderly. An additional service we provide is to represent our clients when arranging and negotiating maintenance contracts.

KS: The real problem is that there is no formal education for gardeners in Egypt. In fact we don’t have gardeners at all – just workers who pose as gardeners! There is also a degree of inflexibility and lack of understanding from property owners that a garden is always a work in progress. It used to be that workers would prune and cut back the trees each spring as a matter of course. Nowadays with people living full-time in their villas they object to the look of pruned plants so the trees end up eating each other; the shade from one affects others that are trying to grow, and so on. Another problem is that people don’t do their research. They buy a couple of small plants that look attractive without finding out how big they’re likely to grow, and where not to put them so their roots won’t cause havoc. Buying plants is only the beginning of your outlay; they will need not just water but food, medicine and on-going maintenance. The truth is, gardening is an art!

ismail@landdesigners.com  – www.genenti.com – www.palmgardensegypt.com

Making a Splash

Making a Splash

Creating your perfect pool

By Hilary Diack

 

 

With a long, hot summer already under way it’s time to look at ways of keeping cool. Having a pool in your garden used to be a dream for many, but now the use of new materials has made it easier, and in many cases, more affordable. So, what are the points to take into consideration? Cairo West Magazine went to leading pundits in design and architecture, Mona Hussein of Mona Hussein Design House and Medhat Abdallah of Magnum Enterprises to get a few top tips.

 

 

CWM: What are the latest trends in pool design?

MA: New pools tend to be more simple and minimalistic with a ‘Zen’ style being incorporated even in parts of the general design of different pools. The ‘horizon’ pool is generally a sign of luxury and excellence of design while the ‘overflow’ gives a special touch to any pool as it allows continuity of the hardscape and the pool water as one unit. Water-relax beds are also added when the area allows. They become a part of the pool that is shallow to sleep in, sit on or even allow space for a partially submerged chaise longue in for relaxation. Also, allowing a pool slot for a jaccuzzi facility is another plus. In larger sized pools, we can always walk into the pool through a beach ramp that allows ease of access and a feeling of spaciousness, so you are forced to jump or use the pool stairs when wanting to take a dip.

MH: During the past years, freeform swimming pools have been the most popular, allowing a unique element to the design. Nowadays geometric swimming pools have started to regain popularity. They are simple in shape and style, I personally prefer them.

What colour schemes are popular at present?

MH: The traditional shades of turquoises, blues, and greenish tones always have been and probably always will be the king according to the majority of our consumers’ tastes. However, there has been a trend toward earth tones and shades of grey and, above all, a burned granite that is adorned with motifs, whether floral, geometric or pop art. Whites and other non-traditional colors for liner bottoms are also popping up, though consumers are still a little conservative to apply them.

What are the advantages of skimmers vs overflow systems?

MA: Generally, as mentioned, the overflow is the newer trend and gives, most of the time, a more modern look. When you are building a pool close to the house borders you will definitely need to use the skimmer in these sides. You can have a walking approach (overflow side) when you are adjacent to a wall, green barrier or a non-accessible side of the pool. So generally, skimmers are good for limited areas having surrounded pools and overflow is used to make the water, the greenery and the hardscape look interconnected as one space.

What lining options are available?

MA: Tiles, mosaic, and ceramics are used in different sizes and textures, plus the vinyl lining used in some types of constructed pools. Another new trend is to have the pool cladded with special sheets that allow water-proof printing to give a 3D look to the pool sides and bottom.

 

 

What options do we have for pool surrounds?

MA: Hard-scape is the flooring around the water or leading to it. Other features can be used to complement the pool according to its use and style, in keeping with the total surroundings.

MH: A rustic brick feel or wooden pavers are the best option for the pool decks; they allow for maximum drainage and minimize moisture. To accentuate natural serenity around the place, waterfalls and fountains are always a big hit in the swimming pool design. You can add LED lights around the pool decks to add mystery and illusion; also RGB lighting can be added to change pool color at night for great effects.

What types of filtration system are used?

MA: You need a multi-level filtration system to clear color and odor and implement biological filtration using several levels of filters. Now ozone is used to give better hygienic control and quality.

The filtration is around the clock with timer control to save on chemicals and cleaning materials as well as electricity costs.

What is involved in adding heating for a pool?

MA: You have the options of electric heating using main electric supply or solar plate electricity or gas heaters. We generally use dual source heaters as standby to each other, but we tend to mainly use gas due to the lower cost compared to electricity.

MH: A pool heating system is a big investment. Whether you opt for gas heaters, heat pumps, solar heaters, or an electric heat pump, the best system for your pool is determined by your needs and your budget. I always recommend solar energy heaters to save energy and money in the long run.

What about cleaning and maintenance?

MH: Keeping the swimming pool clean can take more work than you imagine, it is not a trifling matter. Use the hand skimmer daily to clean out unwanted items and vacuum it weekly. Pool filters require periodic cleaning, depending on the type of the filter and how often the pool is used; you might need to consult the manufacturer to carry out the regular maintenance and make regular water tests to make sure it’s clean and healthy.

Is there a big price difference in constructing different types of pools?

MA: Given the same size you would expect to pay almost the same unit rate, but the overflow requires more space around the swimming area so it’s a bit higher in cost. Construction using traditional methods is linked to the R.C. cost in general plus the internal and external insulation costs. The big figure that varies from pool to pool is the internal finishing cost. It starts with tiles, then special ceramics used for pools and finally mosaic, which can go to the highest limit according to the type.  There are many options ranging from pottery or glass mosaic to gold and platinum decorated mosaic, which would normally be used for smaller indoor pools for spas.

Another Option

Emak pools provides polypropylene, a relatively new technology for swimming pools. They supply these through their cooperation with Jean Desjoyaux of France. The benefit of these pools is that they are almost unlimited in shape and size, with assembly being fast and easy as well as cost effective. Sizes normally range from 18 m2 up to 120 m2, according to the client’s requirements. The production uses a special recycled polypropylene mixed with carbonate, which is highly effective against UV rays, bacteria and pool chemicals. The pool panels create an ‘active permanent casing’, using welding technology, and have a ten-year guarantee.

If you need to find something really special Palm Gardens Egypt and Mikati Investments have a great range of tiles and paving stones for pools and surrounds that are worth investigating. Both Emak and Foxxx have a wide range of heaters, filters, covers, pool lights and pumps to suit all types of pool. Just give their professional sales teams a call to learn about all available options. Aquatop has a state -of-the-art collection of Jacuzzi and spa pools.

Information available in alphabetical order:

emakpools.com

foxxx.com.eg

magnument.com (Medhat Abdallah)

monahussein.com (Mona Hussein Design House

Tiles available at:

mikati-inv.com

palmgardensegypt.com

terra-egypt.com

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