Arwa Gouda Speaking Candidly

April 4, 2014

Arwa Gouda Speaking Candidly

By Francesca Sullivan

The path from modelling to the big screen is a well-worn one in cinema history. From the early days of Hollywood to Oscar-winning A-list stars of today, many models both female and male have successfully made the transition. In the end, though the camera may love a beautiful face, the cinema audience needs more. Egypt’s Arwa Gouda may always be remembered by some for winning “Best Model of the World” not once but twice, but that title is gradually being eclipsed by her rise as a serious actress. Working her way up through a succession of diverse roles in both TV series and movies Arwa is proving to Middle Eastern audiences that she is far more than just a pretty face. Cairo West Magazine caught up with her after a day of intensive shooting on her latest movie.

CWM: Can you tell us about your background and early life?

AG: I lived until the age of eighteen in Saudi Arabia, so in a way that was very much my home. I still miss it! My father was an interpreter and journalist, and together with my mother and sister I was brought up in Jeddah, beside the Red Sea. People who don’t know Saudi Arabia might think it’s not a great place to live, but for me it was a perfect place to grow up in. I attended the French Lycée and then a British school; it was a very cosmopolitan society, and I had far more friends of different nationalities than I would have had here in Egypt.

After leaving school I arrived in Cairo to study marketing at the Maritime Academy for Science and Technology, and everything here was new to me. That was fifteen years ago, before the days of mobile phones, and I was quite cut off, I didn’t know anyone. I missed my friends and family and I was living totally on my own, but my sister and I were raised to be very independent, so although it was a tough time I slowly got used to the way things are in Egypt. In fact I don’t know whether I could imagine life in Saudi Arabia now.

How did you get involved in the world of beauty pageants and modelling?

Well, I began modelling when I was only thirteen years old. My mother took me to modelling jobs, usually for upmarket brands like Chanel or Valentino, and most of them were all-woman affairs, so that wasn’t a problem. I was told at the time I was the youngest model in the Middle East. When I got to Egypt, I was sent by an agency in Cairo to a pageant in Turkey, where I won the “Best Model of the World” title. It was all a bit of a surprise. Shortly before, in 2004, I’d just come eighth in a pageant in the Philippines called “Miss Earth”, and they said, “Why not go to the Istanbul competition – at the very least you’ll get a nice few days holiday out of it!”

Did your success as a model help you get work as an actress?

No, I would say in Egypt it’s the opposite: people don’t necessarily take you seriously as an actress starting out if you’ve been a model. The fashion industry is not in any case very well understood here. On the other hand I would say that my experiences in that field, even in beauty pageants, were useful to me as a person. It was character-building and taught me a lot about personal discipline. I’m not the kind of woman who gets up early in the morning to apply make-up and false eyelashes, but in that world you have to be very organized.

My first acting role came through a friend, Nehad Ramzy, who was producing her first movie, El Haya Montaha Al Laz-a, and offered me a small part. I only did a few scenes but it brought me to the attention of directors, and my career just snowballed from there. Since I never formally learned to act at drama school I made sure to enroll for as many workshops and courses as I could. My first ever workshop was with Amr Waked, who was inspirational to me. I’ve also done courses with Ahmed Kamel and Tom Badel, a visiting American acting coach. I also seize opportunities to get together and do improvisation work with other actors whenever possible.

What do you love most and least about acting?

What I love is that you can experience and ‘live through’ things you normally wouldn’t get the opportunity to, you can travel into another century, there’s always variety. Every project has its own magic, and each one I’ve accepted has been for a different reason. For example in Mafeesh Keda it was because I wanted to dance and sing, in many productions I’ve relished the chance to work with great actors or directors, and each and every one of them has taught me something for which I’m grateful. Meeting and getting to work with actors you’ve idolized is amazing, and you can get quite star struck!

I’ve been lucky enough to have some wonderful roles with generous actors such as Ahmed el Saqa, Hind Sabri, Nabile Abayd , Sawsan Badr– a long list. But acting can be a tough job, and it’s emotionally draining. To produce real emotion again and again, take after take, can be exhausting. It’s not as glamorous as people think. There are hours of waiting in between takes, lots of repetition, and I’ve had days when I’ve worked 22 hours straight. My biggest fears come with the judgment of people afterwards. I try to put in as much effort as possible so as not to disappoint an audience.

How do you prepare for a role?

Well that depends on the character I’m playing. For example when I played a drug addict in Zay Enaharda, I sat with doctors and did quite a bit of research, since it was something outside of my experience. For El Water I spent three months learning to play the cello, since my character was a cellist, and for the TV series Citizen X I had to learn how to ride a chopper motorcycle – which I loved! Doing something physical like that really helps to get inside the character.

What are your most memorable on-set memories?

They would definitely include those scenes with the motorbike. But playing my character in Zay Enaharda was memorable for different reasons; it was a breakthrough movie for me which was like a stepping stone to another level.

Do you feel most comfortable doing drama or comedy?

Drama is much safer and easier. I don’t think of myself as a funny person. Some actors with a talent for comedy can improvise a line in the middle of a scene and crack people up – I could never do that! Comedy is challenging for me.

Would you like to direct one day?

I’d love to – but that would need a lot of study. I’d also love to be a DOP (director of photography). Photography is quite a passion of mine. I love producing abstract images and photographing nature.

What other passions do you have outside of acting?

Singing (but only in English!) Dance, especially Latin and ballroom, and martial arts – I studied capoeira and even fire spinning! And I love camping, in the desert or on the beach.

Which director would be your dream to work with?

Steven Spielberg! All his movies seem to resonate with me. Also Martin Scorsese.

Is it an ambition to work outside the Arab world as an actress?

Not really because I have no connections abroad and wouldn’t know where to start. I would only consider it if I had something already lined up.

Do you have a personal beauty routine, or way to stay in shape?

I make conscious choices to eat healthily most of the time. I choose salads, grilled meat, fresh vegetable juices; it’s become a habit for so long that it’s just the normal way I eat. In terms of exercise I hate the gym, it’s boring. I’ve always preferred to learn a skill to keep my body in shape, such as salsa, horse-riding or martial arts.

What are your favourite places to visit in Cairo?

It sounds corny, but the Pharaonic monuments in Giza, Saqqara and Dahshur. Maybe because I was brought up abroad I have a very strong belief in the importance of Egypt’s Pharaonic identity and I found it really upsetting after the revolution to learn that many of our ancient sites had been damaged or neglected. If you lose your heritage you lose your identity. Taking a felucca on the Nile is another favorite thing to do.

And your favourite places to visit in Egypt?

Sinai, the White Desert and the Red Sea; North Coast – anywhere by the beach. The more I travel in Egypt the more I realize I have so much still to see! I love Marsa Alam and Nuweiba for their natural beauty.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve ever met?

Well, apart from my mother and father – there have been so many! One of them is Naguib Sawiris. I was impressed by his genuine love for his country and his very down-to-earth personality. Hind Sabri has also been a role model for me, not just as an actress but as a human being. I love her genuine nature and her honesty.

Do you have a guilty pleasure?

Yes – chocolate!

What’s more important, beauty or brains?

Well brains of course! Beauty is an asset that eventually fades away; brains carry you further. The thing about attractive people is that once you get used to how they look, it’s what lies beyond that that keeps you interested; their character, intelligence, conversation. Feed your brain and your soul, not your beauty.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Well I like to think of myself as an optimist, though Cairo can drag you down sometimes. When I travel I often come back renewed with energy and ideas, but after a few days back here it can get dissipated in the day to day routines of city life.

Do you have a style icon?

I love the fashions of the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s, but I’ve never followed any specific person’s style. When it comes to how to dress I don’t believe in following fashion – it’s how you feel on the inside that counts.

What’s the last movie you saw at the cinema?

Sparta at the Imax in 3D. But if you asked me what my favorite movies are, they are all musicals from long ago: Fred Astaire in Zeigfield Follies, The King and I (original version). And I love animation! The Incredibles is my favourite.

What’s your favourite scent?

‘Fifth Avenue’ by Elizabeth Arden, ‘Life Is’ by Bodyshop

Your favourite App?

Sound Hound, which tracks down songs you’re listening to, including their lyrics.

Your definition of happiness?

Being at peace with myself and everything around me.

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

Be true to yourself and if you have a dream, don’t give up on it for anyone.

What can’t you live without?

Love.

Top List for Great Films in Africa

April 3, 2014

Top List for Great Films in Africa

Invictus

The film tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela joined forces with the captain of South Africa’s rugby team to help unite their country. Newly elected President Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa’s underdog rugby team as they make an unlikely run to the 1995 World Cup Championship match.

Hotel Rwanda

Hotel Rwanda is a 2004 American historical drama film directed by Terry George based on real life events in Rwanda during the spring of 1994. The film stars Don Cheadle as hotelier Paul Rusesabagina, who attempts to rescue his fellow citizens from the ravages of the Rwandan Genocide, and has been called an African Schindler’s List. It documents Rusesabagina’s acts to save the lives of his family and more than a thousand other refugees, by granting them shelter in the besieged Hôtel des Mille Collines.

Last King of Scotland

Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy) has just finished medical school and decides to go out into the world in search of adventure. He randomly picks Uganda, arriving on the heels of a political coup; the new leader takes a shine to the young man and appoints him the presidential physician. Nicholas is a fictional character. Unfortunately, the man who becomes his boss—General Idi Amin—is not, and the self-declared African king would earn a spot in the dictator hall of fame after killing more than 300,000 of his countrymen. As played by Forest Whitaker, Amin is all belly laughs and bear hugs, until something, anything, triggers a mood swing. Then the monster beneath the jovial surface emerges, and all hell breaks loose.

Blood Diamond

The movie is set in Sierra Leone during the chaotic 1990’s when the country was in the midst of a civil war. Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a South African mercenary who teams up with Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou) a local fisherman looking for his son who has been abducted by rebels. The two are looking for a diamond that will change their lives for ever. They are followed by an American reporter (Jennifer Connelly) trying to tell the story about conflict diamonds and the part they have played in fuelling one of the most brutal civil wars the world has ever seen. This is a movie that won’t disappoint.

Out of Africa

If you are planning an East African safari and you want to get in the mood, this is a good movie to watch. The scenery is spectacular, the acting is great (Meryl Streep and Robert Redford) and it’s very romantic. This movie has proved to be one of Kenya’s most effective marketing tools.

The Lion King

ries sometimes gets him into trouble.Lion cub and future king Simba searches for his identity. His eagerness to please others and penchant for testing his bounda

The Constant Gardener

The Constant Gardener is about a recent widower who searches for the reasons behind his young wife’s murder. The film is set in Kenya and is based on a novel by John le Carre. It’s a murder mystery involving corrupt pharmaceutical companies trying to use poor Africans as guinea pigs for their latest drugs, and British diplomats turning a blind eye in order to save face. The main actors Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz, Hubert Koundé and Bill Nighy are all excellent.

Long Walk to Freedom

April 3, 2014

Book Review

By Hilary Diack

Long Walk to Freedom

The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

Publisher – Back Bay Books/ Little Brown and Company

I haven’t seen the movie, I rarely view a film of an autobiography I have enjoyed reading. Somehow, no matter how skilled the transferral of typed word to screen, your intimate immersion into the life of the author becomes lost. Long Walk to Freedom became one of those books for me.

When a life as monumental as Nelson Mandela’s is recorded, with memories, emotions, passions and challenges laid bare for all to see, you have a story to savour. Starting from his early years in the Transkei countryside, to his battles to establish a career as a lawyer in Johannesburg, on to his incarceration on Robben Island, then his eventual role in leading his country, the reader gradually comes to understand the intense drive that gave Mandela the strength to survive and inspire others.

It is an epic read, giving not only insight into the life of an outstanding human being, but also a pivotal period in the development of a nation.

The State of Africa

A History of 50 Years of Independence

By Martin Meredith

Published by Free Press

The years when African nations gradually and often painfully unshackled themselves from colonial rule have been meticulously researched and recorded in this excellent book by journalist, biographer and historian Martin Meredith. Covering the continent from the shores of the Mediterranean to the Cape of Good Hope, it delves into the history of countries as diverse as Egypt and Congo, Chad and South Africa.

First published in 2005, it garnered impressive reviews in the press, and to date still stands as an important work on the first shaky steps many African countries made on the road to their independence. It is a fascinating narrative, and along with a well-presented overview of the political machinations, there are vignettes of eccentricities and abuses of position that paint a vivid portrait of the characters involved.

This is a must read for anyone seeking insight into the complex and constantly evolving enigma of what had been known as the ‘dark’ continent.

Holistic Harmoney Close to Home

April 2, 2014

Holistic Harmoney Close to Home

A Visit to Lotus Center

By Hilary Diack

Not long ago a visit to a wellbeing center involved a trek across town in heavy traffic, now residents on the west side of town can enjoy a serene and relaxing spot which offers a wide range of wellbeing activities and services, right in the heart of their own community.

Lotus Center was opened a year ago by partners Mona Aly and Nahla Salem, in response to a demand for holistic therapies, courses and lectures for local residents.

Cairo West Magazine popped in for a visit to learn more:

CWM: What is the inspiration behind Lotus Center?

M.A.: I previously worked as certified beauty therapist in addition to having completed studies in homeopathy and holistic therapies. I had worked from home but saw a need to expand into a larger space, so Lotus Centre was created. I convinced my friend Nahla Salem to join me about a year ago, and just recently Sherine Fakoussa also joined our team.

What does the center offer?

M.A.: We have a range of regular fitness and wellbeing classes such as zumba, yoga, belly dancing, Latin dance and Pilates. We have Kung Fu for children, as well as art and guitar classes. The centre also offers beauty treatments, reiki, homeopathy, oxygen therapy, reflexology, Indian face lift massage and interesting lectures on related subjects.

We hold a monthly market as well, with organic foodstuffs and produce, delicious bakery products from Bakeliscious and handicrafts. It is worth noting that many of the baked products are gluten-free.

Which beauty treatments are available?

The centre has body treatments and scrubs. We also have a range of facials, hair treatments, nail treatments and manicures.

Are your consultants and course holders qualified?

M.A.: Definitely. We hold ourselves to very high standards so ensure that we only work with trained professionals.

Which days are you open?

M.A.: We are open daily except for Fridays, with classes starting as early as 8 a.m. and winding up in the evening. Full information is available on our website.

How much do the activities and courses cost?

M.A.: If anyone wants to pop in to join a session it is EGP 75, or EGP 400 for a package of eight sessions. Monthly membership is available for EGP 550, allowing the member to attend any classes that interest them. Kung Fu for children is EGP 200 per month.

What facilities do you have for visitors?

M.A.: Everything they would expect, large bathrooms, showers and lockers and a choice of snacks. We hope to have a juice bar with freshly prepared juices in the near future as well.

To learn more about this oasis of wellbeing close to Mina Garden City in Hay El Motamaez just call 01015640297 or check their Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/Lotus6october

El Nuba, Egypt’s Golden Land

April 2, 2014

By Maggie A. Balbaa

In the very south of Aswan, right along the border with Sudan, lies a land of secrets; a land that bears the charm of the past with a slight modern touch. A land whose people are a constant reminder of legend of the past, stories of our ancestors, their traditions, their modest lives and their welcoming hearts. A land that will enchant you and intrigue you at the same time. This is El Nuba (Nubia).

Nubia consists of many islands in the Nile. Nubian families inhabit these islands. However most of these families had to leave their home islands to new places after the Nasser Dam was built and the water flooded their homes. When you travel to El Nuba (as we call it in Arabic), it is highly recommended that you visit most of the islands, as each of them will have a different story to tell.

The houses of the locals are always open to welcome visitors, and they are huge fans of crocodiles. They raise them and train them to be human-friendly! You will not find a crocodile wandering the streets in Nubia, but you will surely find at least one in a nearby house. When the crocodile dies, the skin is kept and hung on the wall over the door of the house. This is believed to protect the house from the evil eye, “The crocodile skin will catch people eyes and so, it will keep them away from the house, it is a Pharaonic tradition,” one local explains.

Most of the Nubians in the market can speak English, French, and sometimes Italian, quite well. As for their daily lives, Arabic is taught to them in schools, but you will definitely hear them talking at some point in a very different rhythm. It is their Nubian mother tongue language. “In schools, children are taught Arabic, and in homes mothers and fathers teach Nubian. It is a full language with different written letters,” says Aam Zein, a Nubian local. The Nubian language was used by President Anwar El Sadat as a war code during the 1973 war.

Many islands are worth visiting in Nuba. You can ask for a visit to the house where the Egyptian movie Mafia was filmed, a house that has two baby crocodiles as pets.

Islands You Should Try to Visit:

Seheil:

This island is a monument in its own right. Most of the Pharaonic kings that ruled Egypt passed by Seheil to register their arrival and their family. You will find their writings engraved on most of the big rocks of the mountains in Seheil. You can also go hiking to see the view of the Nuba from the mountain top, and boy it is pretty much worth the extra effort! There is a very famous rock in Seheil where the story of Prophet Youssef, who ruled Egypt, is engraved.

Heissa and Philae Temple:

You cannot go to Aswan, and miss Philae. It is by far one of the best temples all over Egypt, and maybe the world. Located on an island of its own, Philae’s story is very interesting. It even has a story in modern history. The temple was moved from its original island after it sank under the Nile. This great operation took about 10 years, funded by the UNESCO and carried out by Egyptian hands. The Crusaders visited this temple, and you can see the Cross engraved on many walls in the temple, it was also visited by Napoleon and his men.

Heissa is called bein el sodoud or “between dams”. It is very close to Philae and so they can both be combined in a day trip. People there are exceptionally warm hearted, just as the breathtaking view of the Nile from Heissa is. You will be directed to hagga Safeya house for lunch or tea. Everything about Heissa is magical, including the food!

Barbar:

This is beauty and relaxation day. Barbar has a natural beach on the Nile where you can actually swim! The best combination is trying their amazing natural mud mask all over your body and then bathing in the Nile. On the other side of the Island there is a small Nubian style lounge where you can have tea, or their signature coffee with ginger, and lunch. Barbar also boasts breathtaking views of the Nile.

Nasser Dam:

The Nasser Dam part is more of a historic trip. You will not imagine the grandeur of the dam until you see it. The top of the Friendship Tower (signifying relations between Egypt and Russia) gives you the best bird eye view of the Nile. An endless blue that unites both the Nile and the sky.

Where to Stay?

There are several options for a stay in Nuba. If you want the full relaxing experience, I would recommend an authentic stay at Anakato. It is a Nubian hotel divided into 3 separate buildings each on a different side of the island with a stunning views all around. Most of the rooms have Nile view, which adds more charm to it. The hotel buildings are built to resemble Nubian houses, in red brick and colorful walls. They all have basic furniture and a nice bathroom.

The hygiene is remarkable and you can easily spot how clean the rooms are. You will not find a TV in the hotel, but you will get free WiFi access on the hotel premises!

For a more luxurious stay, you can go for Cataract, Movenpick or Isis in Aswan. Among the three, Cataract is the oldest. It has been there since the British occupation of the 19th century and is, in itself, a piece of art and a must visit. Wherever you stay, make sure you stop by Cataract to catch the sunset from the terrace. A mind blowing view. All three hotels are directly on the Nile, which guarantees easy access to all Nile trips to Nubian Islands.

Here is a quick guide to the Nubian language:

“Er Minebu”: How are you?

“Enafiatke”: Bye bye

“Essi”: Water

“Kal”: Food

“I orekboury”: I am hungry

“Ermena”: It is none of your business

“Ecadolli”: I love you

Every inch of El Nuba takes you back to a time of simplicity, authenticity and peace; a great spot for a quick detox for the soul. You definitely want to put it on your list of must-see places. Enafiatke.

Bliss On The Nile

April 2, 2014

Bliss On The Nile

Dahabeya Cruising in Style

By Hind Salah Korraa

As 2014 strode into our lives, my family and friends embarked on an eventful trip to warm and sunny Luxor, a trip that would forever become etched in our memories.

We rented horse carriages by day, and trotted around Luxor’s awe-inspiring wealth of history. We took the children to the Sound and Light show at the Karnak Temple and silently grinned as we watched their jaws drop in captivation. We paid a visit to the glorious Pharaoh Tutankhamun in the enthralling Valley of the Kings, which helped the kids put a name to a face (or what was left of it, for that matter).

On what was supposed to be our last day, we took a felucca ride to savor the picturesque upper reaches of the Nile. It was then that we stumbled upon a beauty we saw from across the river. It was a strikingly elegant sailboat, which my husband told us was a Dahabiya, the Royal standard of cruises.

The Dahabiya, meaning ‘the Golden One’ for its high level of luxury, was a type of sailboat built for the royal family in the 1920’s to meander along the Nile on pleasure cruises. The appeal of the Dahabiya was resurrected again in the 21st century, but this time as a means for sophisticated travellers to explore the mighty Pharaonic monuments by river. Because of its smaller size and leisurely pace, travellers could privately sail in regal fashion, away from the flocks of tourists on the more common larger cruise ships.

We approached it in hopes of getting a tour. The closer we got, the more apparent it became that this was not your average cruise ship; this was an extravagant sailboat, it was the Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau.

The manager of the boat greeted us with a warm Upper-Egyptian smile and informed us that it was a fleet member of Sanctuary Retreats Nile Cruises, a sister company of Abercrombie & Kent, who manage the boat. After getting company approval, he allowed us to have a peek. We were hooked. Without hesitation, we extended our trip to experience this enchantress and a phone call later the boat was booked for our own private charter.

This Dahabiya was only 50 meters long, so it was cozy and intimate. The top sundeck had sunbeds and umbrellas, with a heated Jacuzzi. Below it, the contemporary Arabian-themed lounge was in classy off-white, with panoramic sliding glass doors that converted it from indoor to outdoor space. For entertainment purposes, they provided a vast collection of recreational board games, and included was a small library. You could dine indoors or outdoors, depending on your preference and timings were at our convenience.

It boasted two luxurious suites and four cabins, accommodating a total of 12 guests. This left us with only one dilemma: who from our group would get the Farouk Suite! Quickly dismissing thoughts of hair-pulling and putting our friendship first, we decided we would do it civilly, like adults…. by flipping a coin, of course! Our friends won and we graciously congratulated them, but not before posing for some pictures in the royal suite.

My husband and I stayed in the exquisite Napoleon Suite, and it just made it all the more glamorous after we found out it had been Leonardo Di Caprio’s suite on a trip when he was invited by Naomi Campbell.

It turns out, this boat has sailed for some of the world’s most prominent personalities: international royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood celebrities such as Richard Gere, Brad and Angelina, Vanessa Williams, just to name a few.

The staff was highly-trained, polite and pampered us in every way possible. The entire boat was kept immaculately clean, even with our four mad kids wreaking havoc. The on-board veteran chef prepared scrumptious gourmet buffets in great variety at every meal- so take it from me and pack your ‘fat pants’. Main dishes included succulent beef in hearty gravy, chicken, baked to perfection with thyme, fish in butter lemon sauce, to name a few. My most memorable dinner platter was a luscious tender roast duck bathed in an aromatic orange sauce. However, there isn’t a dish you should skip without sampling; you won’t regret a single calorie.

We spent sailing time tanning on the upper deck sipping refreshing juices, while the kids hijacked the heated Jacuzzi. Gazing at the tranquility of the lotus and papyrus-studded Nile River, we witnessed kingfishers plunging into the Nile, snatching their meal. At sunset, the sun hypnotized us as it laid its shades of pumpkin and crimson over the water.

At night, we partied and danced and as the tunes shifted into slow romantic music, instinctively, without a murmur, the staff drew the curtains, dimmed the lights and filled the room with lit candles, concocting the perfect ambience.

The sight-seeing itinerary is flexible and tailored based on group preferences, so we visited architectural wonders of the Pharaohs, as well as enchanting local villages and islands along the Nile.

As the trip came to an end, we were bid farewell by each crew member, with genuine hospitable smiles and warm handshakes.

Travel agencies who cater for Dahabiya trips:

Abercrombie & Kent Egypt

Dahabiya: Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau

aalim@sanctuaryretreats.com

www.sanctuaryretreats.com

Sonesta Cruise Collection- Nile River

reservations@sonestacruises.com

www.sonesta.com

Travcotels

office.cruises@travco.com

www.travcotels.com

Arkan Plaza Powerhouse Working Mothers

March 3, 2014

Arkan Plaza Powerhouse Working Mothers

Sara & Nadia Badreldine on Balancing Children & Careers

By Shorouk Abbas and Lydia Schoonderbeek

The term “effortless working women” is bandied about a lot these days. But if a

ny women are truly deserving of it, it’s Sara & Nadia Badreldine. The duo have spent almost 2 years marketing Arkan Plaza into what it has now become, thanks in part to being strong minded business women. The 2 cousins have transformed this venue from vision into reality, making it the destination for most 6th October residents everyday.

There is no better place for Cairo East Magazine to enjoy a morning coffee in the sunshine than at Arkan Plaza with the duo powerhouse working moms, the Badreldines.

CEM – Tell us briefly about your background?

SB- I have a degree in Textile Design from Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London where I specialized in weaving. I then came back to Cairo and started Artissimo a furniture store, which also sold hand painted textiles that I personally made. I did that for a couple of years and then I joined my family business, namely Arkan Plaza. I am also a mother to an 8 month-old daughter.

NB- I studied at AUC, upon finishing my degree in Economics I started working with the US AID, which I later left to start working with my father. I first started working in real estate in Sheikh Zayed in 2004. I had my 2 children and then began working on marketing and developing Arkan Plaza.

What were the major challenges you faced getting up and running?

SB- To start with, it was hard to get people convinced with the concept, especially realtors and restaurant owners. It was also hard to maintain the standard of clientele with the service that we provide; therefore most cafés and restaurants have added a minimum charge. Also the cleanliness of the venue is of upmost importance to us, if you look around you will never see any outdoor advertising or flyers throughout. Luckily we didn›t need to market the venue, slowly word started to spread and a gradual flow of people started coming to Akran Plaza.

How involved are you in the day-to-day management?

NB- We are very involved as we are always in direct contact with each of the tenants and clients here at Arkan Plaza, we know everyone that is running a business here by name, and in return they contact us directly for any issues. It is important that you build strong reliable relationships with your clients, it’s a great foundation to start work from.

What three things have contributed most to your success?

SB- Firstly, working well as a team, nobody wants to prove herself/himself on her/his own. Secondly, simple hard work and effort, as I value what we do. Finally, growing up in a working family environment has instilled a strong work ethic in me.

If you knew then what you know now, what would you tell your 18-year-old self?

NB- That life isn›t as simple and easy as I thought it would be. That life is not fair and one does have to be realistic. So I have started telling my son this, so it is drummed into him.

When things get tough, how do you keep yourself going?

SB- When I have a tough day, I just keep going and I don›t want to stop and think about what it is slowing me down. Also exercising regularly helps getting all the negative energy out. Spending time with my daughter after a long day at work is the best way to unwind. More importantly the thought that things could be worse keeps me going.

What leadership qualities do you most admire?

NB- Persistence, being patient and doing things yourself. I am used to doing things on my own from A to Z. My father taught me something from a very young age, for example when a client wanted to buy a property from him, he would be with the buyer from the beginning of making the decision right until he/she has moved into the property. The buyer needs to develop a relationship based on trust with you, which means you need to be present in every singledecisions and detail. You show dedication to your client and in return you gain respect and potentially a sale.

How do you achieve balance in your life between having a career and being a mother?

SB – It is very challenging, you will never know how hard it is having a child until you have one. A good mother is always a happy mother, which means that I am content when I am working. As long as you give your child quality time that is more important for me than quantity. I am a role model for my daughter, and I am trying to be the best I can be.

What do you do for fun?

NB- I enjoy painting, travelling, and I like to go on holidays with my husband. We›re both part of a book club, with a lovely group of people where we discuss the book that has been assigned to us, but a lot of the time the conversation veers off to our daily issues, which makes me realize we all have issues.

For a woman (or anyone starting their own business), what are the three most critical factors to consider?

NB- In Egypt we have a huge gender issue. You have to be very careful how you delegate. Most times it can be looked at in a demeaning manner and then you have an ego to deal with. Also juggling work and my personal life is quiet tough, as the responsibility lies mainly within the woman’s role.

What is the best and worst decision you’ve ever made?

NB- The best decision was going back to work after having my children, which was hard as I was also going back to work in a new field that was alien to me. The worst decision? There never is one, as with every bad decision made hopefully there is a lesson learned.

What was your dream job as a kid and why?

SB- I wanted to be a psychologist at one point, and then I wanted to be an architect.

NB – The earliest memory of my first dream job was that I wanted to be a singer or an artist.

What woman inspires you and why?

SB – My mother, she has always worked and is a very determined lady and I have always looked up to her especially as she had a very difficult childhood.

NB – My mother, she was always an independent woman and has always worked. In the 60’s my mother was sent to the U.S as part of an exchange program with the AFS and back then not many women were allowed to travel abroad by their parents. That alone tells you what kind of women she is.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want with you?

SB- iPad, lip balm and water

NB- Sunscreen, iPad and a paintbrush

Best advice you’ve been given?

NB- Never give up, even if it is the end of the tunnel. You just keep going, always be positive

At One with Nature

March 3, 2014

At One with Nature

Style Design Aesthetics

By Hilary Diack

When Eng. Ehab El Khodary and Arch. Hisham Ghorab founded Style Design in 1989 they set out to introduce a new concept of interior design in Egypt. They saw a way they could use their skills and creative inspiration to design both residential and commercial spaces in a way that would create a stronger link between people and their environment.

A newly completed project in a quiet corner of Giza bears testament to their credo: the use of intelligent technology along with natural materials and aesthetic design. Wood and stone have been used to blend in with the natural environment of the house, using the same color palette throughout the interior as well as the exterior spaces, while large floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall windows maximize the absorption of natural light in the interior spaces.

Fireplaces have been unconventionally placed in the middle of the living space as a focal point, they are suspended to give the effect of lightness and to allow the continuity of the flooring beneath them. Under-floor heating and cooling has cleverly been used to avoid the look of installed radiators, and ensures a pleasant temperature year round.

The flow of living space between the interior and outdoor terraces and gardens has created a cohesive and very liveable home for its owners; the subtle, modern furnishings provide a perfect backdrop for an eclectic and original collection of sculptures and paintings. There is nothing brash or out of place in this stunning residence, a sense of harmony with its tranquil surroundings prevails.

http://www.style-design.com.eg/

Siren of Song Sherine

March 3, 2014

Siren of Song Sherine, Shares insight into her life, her love and her career

By Francesca Sullivan & Shorouk Abbas

From her humble beginnings through the ups and downs of her recording career, from her pop debut aged just twenty to celebrity icon and high profile mother of two, Sherine Ahmed Abdel Wahab has come a long way in her thirty four years. Arguably the top female vocal artist in the Arab world today, she has reached lofty heights in every sense.

The image promoting her latest album looks down from giant billboards all over town, and she herself is ensconced in a hilltop residence in West Cairo, the city literally spread at her feet. That new poster image is an eye-catching one, carefully developed by a team comprised of an artistic consultant, photographer and stylist. In it she has visibly matured to a sexy, stylish woman completely comfortable in her own skin, who radiates simplicity and freshness.

Not surprising then that she ushers us into the apartment herself, clad in a plain black sleeveless shift, her smooth complexion devoid of make-up. “In my private life I never wear any cosmetics,” she declares, “That’s for my stage persona only.”

We sink into a pristine white sofa decorated in comfortable cushions, as she describes her move from her previous home in Maadi to her current residence. Why West Cairo? “My husband was living here and I used to come and visit him before were married. I loved the quietness of it, the fact it was so clean and far away from the noise and chaos of the streets.”

Sherine has taken pleasure in decorating the apartment herself, “If I hadn’t become a singer I would have loved to study interior design” she says, and although her cook is present she herself is supervising the preparation of kosheri in the open plan kitchen.

Nowadays, she herself is a judge on The Voice, helping discover other talents. Each week during the series, alongside superstars Kazem El Seher, Assy El Halani and Saber Robaie; she prepares to swing her chair round to see a promising singer in the flesh, “They really are kept strictly away from us until that moment,” she assures any cynical viewer.

So what do contestants on the show need to have to make it to the final? “Charisma, intelligence, originality – their voice needs to add something new – and the ability to take advice,” she says. “It’s a tough business to get into, and any new singer must be prepared to expect set-backs and difficult times. We all get depressed sometimes; it’s important to keep your strength no matter what. To succeed you’ve got to be ambitious, hungry for fame and prepared to work hard for it.”

Acting ability might also be an advantage. When asked which of the songs in her career has meant the most to her Sherine replies: “Garha Tani, because it happened to coincide with real things that were happening in my life at the time. But that doesn’t mean I have to use real feelings every time I sing. It’s a performance.”

Her regular spot on the show is testament to her own ability and ease in front of the camera. “The role as a judge on The Voice requires a relaxed personality and being able to come across as very natural,” she suggests. “And by the way, the outcome of the competition is not always what I’m expecting. Last season for example two of the contestants I predicted would win didn’t, and the finalist was a surprise even to me.”

Sherine’s own career continues to go from strength to strength. Yasser Khalil, her image consultant, says of her ‘new look’ in the latest publicity campaign, “Sherine can truly sing in any style, and in presenting her new album we wanted a look that typifies the music itself. It’s commercial, but within it she retains that ability to sing heavy melodies; real tarab. The photos for the campaign were shot in London by fashion photographer Dan Kennedy. We shot nine different outfits in total and picked that image for the poster. It was an important choice since Sherine is the most high profile singer in Egypt – and perhaps the whole Middle East – right now.”

“My own personal ambition has no ceiling,” says Sherine. “There are so many things I’d like to do. Make more movies, for example, but with better control over the production. I’d like to sing in another language, do a duet with Samira Saeed, who was always an idol of mine. I have a dream to produce a stage show of My Fair Lady (Sayedeti Gamila) with actor Mohamed Sobhi. If I had the time I’d love to design my own fashion label. And I’d love to do a TV show for kids.”

Sherine is herself a mother of two small daughters, Hana and Maryam. She juggles a busy career with the demands of motherhood by having not one but two nannies, “But my time with my girls is quality time,” she insists. “I bathe them, clean their noses and ears, watch movies with them and give them massages. My daughter Maryam was the inspiration for the song One Word from You (Kilma Minak). Even though it’s supposed to be a romantic song I looked at her photo when I recorded it; that’s where the emotion came from.”

Success has also enabled her to sometimes indulge her children, “Maryam dreams of celebrating her sixth birthday in Disneyland Florida, and I intend to take her.” The girls take swimming and ballet classes at nearby City View compound, though Sherine herself has her own private exercise routine. “Since I travel a lot I prefer to stay in shape with a system that I can do anywhere,” she says. “I am also a person who needs my own space. I try to divide my day in a way that gives me time by myself. I’m a dreamer; I love nothing better than to spend time just thinking and imagining and going off into a world of my own.”

Does that mean Sherine is a romantic at heart? “Romance for me is looking into the eyes of someone I love and knowing that we have complete understanding of one another; a blending of hearts. It doesn’t happen very often! I believe in being strong as a woman, but if I were to give my daughters advice on their dealings with men, I’d say yes, be strong and independent, but enjoy your femininity. Keep your strength and fighting spirit for the times you really need it.”

One of those times for Sherine came last August when she found herself in a controversial situation, speaking out in favour of General Sisi while performing at a concert in Tunisia. “I had no idea until later that there would be such a reaction,” she says. “At the time I felt I needed to stand up for my country in the face of a whole stadium full of people. That’s the type of situation that I’m talking about, one where you need the courage of your convictions.”

Small in stature but fiercely determined by nature, it seems no surprise that Sherine has achieved stardom. Her multi-faceted personality, at times bubbly, other times quiet and thoughtful, has many layers. And now she prepares to reveal another as she leaves us to rehearse for a Valentine’s Day concert at City Stars. Like a seemingly simple little bird leaving her (albeit well-feathered) nest, she’s about to don her brightest plumage and sing her heart out. Not literally though. “I’m a good actress!” she reminds us.

Quick Questions:

What was the last movie you watched?

The Great Gatsby with Leonardo de Caprio, and Halla Lawayn with Nadine Labki

Where are your favourite places to travel in the world?

Lebanon in the summer for the beaches, Paris in the winter, London for shopping, Milan for food – a different place for different reasons.

And where would you love to go that you haven’t yet been?

The Maldives, Hawaii, and the Far East – but I’m afraid of getting lost there because I’d look like the locals!

Who are the people you would have loved to have met?

Ahmed Zaki, Baligh Hamdi, President Sadat, Shaikh Sharawi.

What’s your favourite movie?

Unfaithful – because I’m fascinated by the idea of why a woman would be unfaithful for no good reason.

What’s your favourite food?

Salmon, smoked or raw.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

An optimist, always.

Guilty pleasures?

Ice cream and anything spicy.

Your worst habit?

Lying awake at night thinking about things too much.

What the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

My mother told me, don’t bite off more than you can chew.

What is your definition of happiness?

At the moment, walking in the street without being recognized.

Favorite place in West Cairo?

Seasons Country Club & City View

Which song of yours effected you the most?

Gareh Tany

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