Out and About STYLE Magazine Issue 3 Vol 2

Issue 3 Volume 2 7 THINGS YOU MUST DO April 2020 N ACCRA, GHANA 1 TAKING LESSON FROM MANSOUR BIN JABR EMIRATI VENTURE CAPITALIST AND ENVIRONMENTALIST EAT FOR IMMUNITY A LIST OF RECOMMENDED FOODS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM HOW TO CONVERT MONEY IN YOUR MIND TO MONEY IN THE BANK

When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure. Peter Marshall 2

Editorial Editor in chief Marsha Fry [email protected] Editor Shella landayan [email protected] art Art director nakul thanekar [email protected] advertising sales & marketing director tiffany whyte +971 50 127 8820 [email protected] Issue 3 Volume 2 On this general enquiries month's April 2020 cover [email protected] outandaboutstylemag TAKING LESSON outandaboutstylemag OaASMag FROM Outandaboutstylemag MANSOUR www.outandaboutstylemag.com BIN JABR 7 THINGS Interview: Saif and Sound Published by Out and About Style FZE EMIRATI VENTURE YOU MUST DO Photographer: Amado L. (Registered at Fujairah Creative City) CAPITALIST AND N ACCRA, GHANA Styling: Vans Middle East ENVIRONMENTALIST Hair: Saif and Sound EAT FOR IMMUNITY A LIST OF RECOMMENDED FOODS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM HOW TO CONVERT MONEY IN YOUR MIND TO MONEY IN THE BANK 3

EDI LTCOORM‘’ S Start where you are. Use what you have. WE E Do what you can.  ~ Arthur Ashe Resilience is the ability to manage oneself amidst hardships and challenges. It is a skill that is very much needed, especially in our situation now. All of us are struggling, yet we don’t have a choice but to move forward. In tough times like this, we all need the love, understanding, and the help of one another. Out and About STYLE Magazine is here to support and provide you with articles that are good for your mind and soul. Features and Highlights Fashion and great advocacies are words that can describe the amazing Modupe Omonze, the creator of the famous Runway Dubai. She gave us her insights on how she connected fashion with humanity. Read her interview in our Fashion feature. We also compiled tips and tricks to give your style a boost. Check out 7 Ways to Add Colour to Your Wardrobe and be ahead of the fashion game. If you’re still looking for ways to take care of your skin, Katrina shared her helpful recommendations in My Skin Prep Secret: Exfoliate! Exfoliate! Exfoliate! Spring is here, and even though most of us are inside our homes, we still want our skin to be healthy and glowing. We gave you 4 DIY Natural Moisturisers for the Perfect Summer Glow to try and share with your loved ones! 4

Meet Mansour Bin Jabr, an investor, Actions That Can Help You to Get Fit businessman and a philanthropist who has easy to follow tips to get your body shared his inspiring and successful in a strong and flourishing shape. Check stories in life. Read his words of wisdom it out in our Fitness section. in Taking Lessons. Planning to travel once we’re allowed Is music the backbone of your life? Our to go out? In our Travel section, read Talent Pool section features Saif and Travel with Monique Spearman: 7 Sound who passionately narrates his Things You Must Do in Accra, Ghana journey as a DJ and radio presenter. to get an idea on when your next destination will be. Here’s another In our Lifestyle section, we offer you article for you: A Traveller’s Guide to Leveraging with Public Relations: Portugal which tackles why Portugal Boost your Brand and Business, an should be listed on your bucket list! article that can help you if you’re starting your new business. Here’s another In our Culture section, find out how article for aspiring entrepreneurs and Transforming your Mindset in a people who aim for financial freedom: Global Crisis can help your mind during these trying times. Children How to Convert Money in Your are affected as well since most schools Mind to Money in The Bank. Success are closed, so we discuss how parents starts by taking little steps, so read on can train their children the right way Decluttering your Personal Space to in Home Economics: Create your learn more about what an organised life Leaders Now! If you’re looking for can bring you. a good, peaceful read, here’s a Book Review: Purpose by Ben Renshaw. Food makes us strong and gives us the strength to continue our daily activities. Together, we’ll face and end this Help your body and get ideas on Eat battle. for Immunity: A List of Recommended Diets to Boost your Immune System This will end soon and at the end of the in our Food section. Every meal is day, remember that it is our resilience, important and we can’t waste or throw patience and faith that will keep us anything away. We created a delicious strong and grounded. Out and About list in 12 Leftover Recipe Ideas. Try it STYLE Magazine, together with the and enjoy it with the family! team that made this Edition possible, is here to support you as we continue Having a healthy body is crucial, this fight. especially at this time. 15 Healthy 5

B20R2ID0AL STYLE Photo and retouch : Erdosi Tibor Hair and makeup : Liv Rideg Dress : Daalarna Couture Location : Studio Madison, Budapest Hungary Model : Linda Nikoletta Zelei 6

SILVER SCREEN Model : Virag Babel - Avantage Models Photo : Jozsef Balogh Hair, makeup and styling : Liv Rideg Location : Studio Madison, Budapest Hungary 7

CONTENTS APRIL 2020 09 SECTION 1 FASHION • Fashion Feature: Modupe Omonze • 7 Ways to Add Colour to Your Wardrobe SECTION 2 28 BEAUTY • Makeup Madness with Katrina: My Skin Prep Secret: Exfoliate! Exfoliate! Exfoliate! • 4 DIY Natural Moisturisers for the Perfect Summer Glow 35 SECTION 3 LESSONS TAKING • Mansour Bin Jabr, Emirati Venture Capitalist and Environmentalist SECTION 4 SECTION 6 42 TALENT POOL 80 TRAVEL • Saif and Sound, DJ and Radio Presenter • T ravel with Monique Spearman: 7 Things You Must Do in Accra, Ghana • A Traveller’s Guide to Portugal SECTION 5 SECTION 7 55 LIFESTYLE 93 CFOURLTTUHREE • L everaging with Public Relations: • T he Reinvented Chronicles with Boost your Brand and Business Yvonne C Mtengwa: Transforming • How to Convert Money in Your your Mindset in a Global Crisis Mind to Money in The Bank • H ome Economics: Create your • Decluttering your Personal Space Leaders Now! • B ook Review: Purpose by Ben 66 FOOD Renshaw • Eat for Immunity: A List of Recommended Foods to Boost your Immune System • 10 Leftover Recipe Ideas 74 FITNESS • 1 5 Healthy Actions That Can Help You to Get Fit Out and About STYLE Magazine tasks no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material. Th8e photographs in this publication are for illustration purposes, unless otherwise specified.

Fashion Feature Modupe Omonze Brand name: Runway Dubai ____________________________ Instagram: @runwaydubai ____________________________ _Yo__u_tu__b_e_:_R_u__n_w__a_y__D_u_b__a_i_____ www.runwaydubai.com 9

1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF My name is Modupe Omonze, I am from Lagos Nigeria. I am a fashion designer who creates pieces to tell stories about my love for arts and culture. I have been fortunate to have lived in different parts of the world, and studied other people’s culture, this has influenced my designs greatly. I studied fashion design extensively in Trinidad and Tobago, where my graduation pieces were featured in the Trinidad Guardian newspapers. This was the beginning of my journey in the fashion industry. 2. HOW DID RUNWAY DUBAI COME ABOUT? Runway Dubai started soon after I moved to Dubai. I noticed that there was not a single platform in the fashion industry that supported emerging talent and the creative industry in general. I knew it was my responsibility to bridge the gap, so I took a course in Event management in the U.K to acquire knowledge on a professional level. 10

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3. WHAT IS THE VISION AND MISSION OF RUNWAY DUBAI? Our vision is to create a hub in the UAE for local and international artists, fashion designers, and creative people to find a common and easily accessible platform that allows them to express themselves creatively. On the other hand, our mission is to harmonise humanity with creativity. 4. WHERE DO YOU GATHER YOUR INSPIRATION FOR RUNWAYS? Every year, I focus on one social challenge that will have an impact on the industry. The people around me that I meet on a day-to-day basis are my source of. I listen carefully to what is going on around me, as it helps me a lot in creating original campaigns. 5. TELL US ABOUT SOME OF YOUR PREVIOUS CAMPAIGNS We proudly presented the Down syndrome campaign with Madeline Stuart, a professional model with down syndrome during the Runway Dubai season 4 show. Our main objective was to highlight the importance of diversity in the fashion industry. We also showcased the importance of confidence and self-belief in women through the mentorship of Tennis champion Venus Williams. We have highlighted the Alopecia campaign with Kimberly Carey, a model with alopecia who led the campaign by speaking of the importance of finding strength through life’s challenges. Season 6 presented a wonderful opportunity to highlight Autism Spectrum with international model with Autism, Natalie Oden who was presented an award as the spokesperson of the year. Natalie is an inspiring model and actress who keeps pushing boundaries. 16

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6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART ABOUT PUTTING TOGETHER A SHOW? My favourite part is seeing the designer’s creations come alive on the Runway. For me, this is the true meaning of joy. I enjoy the creativity in bringing everyone together and seeing them interact, making lifelong relationships. 7. WHAT OTHER VENTURES ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH OTHER THAN RUNWAY DUBAI. Since I’m passionate about globally responsible initiatives, I have launched the Fashion Sustainability Summit, a platform that raises awareness and helps place the fashion industry amongst the top responsibly active industries. We have carried out seminars and practical exercises across the region since the launch of this platform. We have succeeded in initiating schools to strive to contribute to an eco-friendlier world by joining our on-going campaign. 18

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8. WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM YOUR BIGGEST FAILURE? I have learned to try continuously. I learned that giving up should never be an option. 9. IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE AND WHY? I would change the negative impact that the fashion industry has experienced through the years with regards to unethical practices and environmental pollution. We have a lot of compassionate people in the industry who keep creating opportunities for change. 10. HOW HAS SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS? Social media was made for creative people who love to express themselves and inspire others as well. My social media platforms are one of the secrets to my success, where I design positive campaigns and interact with people. 11. WHAT CAN GUESTS LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEXT EDITION OF RUNWAY DUBAI? The campaign for 2020 is highlighting the beauty in our differences. Models from all over the world with vitiligo will be on the platform emphasising on their confidence in being unique. This will break a record. Vitiligo is the ultra-modern look in the fashion industry as we keep embracing diversity. 12. WHAT IS THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY? “The ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world are the ones who do.” — A quote by John McAfee 20

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7 Ways to Add Colour to Your Wardrobe Every time of year demands specific When it comes to choosing colours, women are naturally more in colours, tones and hues along with advantage than their male counterparts. Although both genders stick to seasonal fabric textures, prints and similar approaches for picking out suitable hues, we are going to describe styles. seven handy tips in separate sections for the convenience of our readers. Generally, there are just two basic principles of adding colour to your The arrival of Spring denotes bursts wardrobe; either go for brighter coloured outfits with neutral accessories, of energy and liveliness. This fickle such as shoes, bags, belts, jewellery, etc. or decide on colourful add- weather brings joy and delight at every ons coupled with neutral-toned apparels. It’s your game and you are at little bud that blooms, every weakling freedom of playing it in your unique way. that cracks open the eggshell, every grass blade that springs from the Let us discuss the options women can tackle without any hassle. earth; not to forget the breeze that lifts the wisps of your hair, gently whistling through the green leaves. How can one remain indifferent to the changes in the weather? Of course, we can’t, it’s simply impossible. Mankind has to remain in step with the ongoing moods of nature, through colours and textures of their garments, shoes, accessories and other shebang. For some people, choosing colours, mixing and matching dresses is a daunting task. However, a few basics if kept in mind, ease out the matters. 22

1 Start Small If you don’t want to be the centre of attention or shyness is withholding you, bring colour to your attire step-by- step. Try one bright top with beige or any neutral-toned legwear. It could also be vice versa, trust us for making the difference you want—Target white trousers with a yellow top, blue jeans, and a bright red shirt. 2 Pastel Pleasure Pastels never go out of style. The soft tones are most delightful to the senses and one seldom goes wrong with pastels. Mixing and matching pastels is super easy and cool. These days beautiful linens and cottons are available in the prettiest of subtle colours. Go and shop now, they’re the must-haves of your wardrobe. 3 Strong Statement Feeling more confident? Bring in oranges, greens, yellows, blues, and more. Pair the tops with bottoms to see the contrast, even the same shades with different tones would set you on the colourful journey. Wear a cool-toned green or turquoise legwear with a bright orange top. You’ll love it. 4 Pattern Tease Bored of wearing plain? Go for patterns—florals, polka dots, bohemians, stripes, checks, geometrics, etc. There’s a whole lot to choose from, available in endless shades. Pick out your favourite patterns now for that perfect tease of colour. 23

5 LBD Differently All womenfolk know very well what LBD stands for; what they might be missing is putting new terms to the initials. For example, wear a blue dress, or what about burgundy, beet red, baby blue, berry and banana? Yes! Incorporate other colours into LBD, not just black. Flaunt these new juicy tones with neutral accessories. 6 Sneak Peak The daring ones can benefit from this idea. Wear a bold coloured under vest, slip or any other garment under the top that shows itself for a bit of colour pop. It can be a yellow, mint green, blue or any other bright colour peeking through the top’s neckline, shoulders, sleeves, or slits. Let your creativity speak for itself. 7 Accessory Drama Last but not least, of course, is to pair your dress with colourful accessories. We think you’re aware of all the add-ons you can divulge in for explosions of colours. A bright watch, sunglasses, a coloured scarf, a pair of vibrant shoes, a snazzy handbag, a gaudy belt, flamboyant socks or flashy jewellery. These things would definitely flare up your colour cloaked personage even if you dress up in neutrals. 24

Power of Colours for Menfolk 1 Trust Neutrals Nearly all neutral shades are earthy tones and a good way to kick off Spring. Shedding away the neutrals would leave you confused, so it’s best to begin by combining fresh, new colours into your neutrals. For example, wear a green summer blazer or top with brown pants. If you’re up for a stronger impact, try orange or yellow. Just achieve subtle and harmonious touches. 25

2 Tie Splash Usually, men depend on their ties for a change of mood and colour. That’s undoubtedly the safest approach for a colour clash. The tie remains the focus of attention and admiration for men and it’s only sensible to look for an uplift with lighter and brighter toned ties. 3 Lining Flash You can really enjoy the hints of hues a colourful lining can give you. Still double-minded? Experiment and see the difference. The underneath layer of a vibrant fabric in your blazer or overcoat would give you all the boost of colour and confidence you need. 4 Light Tops The requirement of this light and breezy weather is to go light from the top. Wear light-toned, patterned, printed shirts, blazers, tops and t-shirts. There’s an infinite supply of shades, patterns and textures available for men on the go. Just grab yourself in contemporary clothing and never compromise on quality. 26

5 Talking Trousers Another technique to include pastels in your wardrobe is by sporting soft subtle toned trousers or chinos. Make use of colour blocking by wearing a white shirt, preferably. A casual dresser can stay comfortable in vibrant chinos during summer with sweatshirts, t-shirts, even vests and for formal events or office hours, stock up the trendier pale pastel coloured linen and cotton trousers. These can be effortlessly paired with button- down neutral-toned shirts. A timeless investment! 6 Dazzling Footwear With all the light soft clothes, heavy dark shoes are a big no. Suede is lightweight and breathable and loafers slightly more relaxed. Make good choices; invest in cool-toned lightweight footwear for relaxing in summer, whether at work or on weekends. 7 Accessory Agenda The quiet ones do love vibrant accessories to show their spirit. And why not? Accessories are by far the best venture you carry with you, stamping your trademark. Wallets, belts, ties, pocket squares, sunglasses and lightweight scarves in summer shades are expecting to be taken for balancing your complete appearance. Selection of colours should always be done cleverly. Choose colours that go with most of the outfits you already own. If you think you can never manage to look cool with some colour, with these tips you’d legit look cool both in the office and outside of it. 27

BEAUTY MAKEUP MADNESS WITH My Skin Prep Secret Exfoliate!!Exfoliate!!Exfoliate!! If you are a Melanin Deep Beauty client, I also referenced my most recent client files to then you are already familiar with how much give you a full list of options to get started on I stand behind exfoliation, both manual and your exfoliation journey. Let’s get to it! chemical. Exfoliating preps your skin for the remaining steps of your skincare routines. It Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are derived removes all dead skin cells in preparation for from natural sources like fruit, sugar or milk. the nutrients you are about to apply. The most widely used AHAs in skin-care products are glycolic acid and lactic acid Understanding chemical exfoliation can be simply because they are most proven and a bit complicated for most, so I decided to effective. AHAs peel away dead skin cells on break down AHAs, BHAs and Enzymes. I the skin surface. Mandelic and malic acids are will explain each and provide my product even milder than lactic acid. Tartaric and citric recommendations. I pulled some of my most acids are typically used to stabilise the skin’s recommended products from my showroom. pH balance. 28

Most Recommended: URBAN SKIN RX LACTIC GLOW MICRO POLISH GENTLE CLEANSING GEL Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are an effective treatment for those with oily, acne-prone skin because they are oil- soluble. The most commonly-known BHA is salicylic acid. BHAs soften and dissolve keratin on the skin’s surface and inside of the pores. Betaine salicylate is less drying and just as effective. Willow bark is a natural source of salicylic acid but is not as effective. Most Recommended: VOTARY BLEMISH RESCUE OIL - TAMANU + SALICYLIC If you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to look for enzyme-based exfoliants, which are derived from fruits like pineapple, as they work at a slower pace than the acids listed above. Enzyme exfoliating is much more gentle than AHAs but provides very comparable results. Most Recommended: YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE YERBA MATE RESURFACING ENERGY FACIAL (instant microdermabrasion enzyme treat) Katrina is the Creative Director at The Beauty Studio, Middle East.. In this article, she shares clean and ethical brands and products for you’ll need from head to toe. 29

BRIDAL 2020 Model : Lili Nagy Photo : Jozsef Balogh Retouch : Ory Gabor Hair : Izabella Koszeri Makeup : Liv Rideg Dress : Zhoja Budapest Location : Studio Madison, Budapest Hungary 30

4 DIY Natural Moisturisers for the Perfect Summer Glow There’s a rapid rise in organic and When it comes to ready-made, store-bought moisturisers; they’re sustainable products, especially either too expensive or too full of toxic ingredients. To spare your during the summer season. In skin from harmful chemicals, a homemade moisturiser is your best fact, it’s a complete lifestyle many bet and reduces plastic waste. You get to know the ingredients people are embracing to ensure you’re putting onto your skin and can control the amount to achieve their maximum health. Beauty is desired results when indulging in a homemade moisturiser. Doesn’t also a part of this concept, whether it sound amazing to be your own beauty boss? it concerns your makeup or your daily moisturiser. Besides, it’s made from ingredients readily available in your house. You just have to start raiding your kitchen! 31

1 Homemade Moisturiser For Dry Skin A moisturiser for dryness tends to be thick and Ingredients dissolves into the epidermis deeply for ultimate • Shea Butter 3 Tbsp. hydration. For a beautiful homemade moisturiser for dry, flaky skin, you’ll need exactly five ingredients: • Jojoba Oil 1 Tsp. shea butter, aloe vera, jojoba oil, honey and a few drops of your favourite essential oil. • Aloe Vera 1 Tsp. • Honey 1 Tsp. • Favourite Essential Oil (Lavender) 5-10 drops Sometimes, tending to skin dryness is an uphill Method battle, but ingredients like shea butter, honey, and • Melt shea butter and add all the other ingredients. jojoba oil are naturally capable of banishing the very cause of it. This is a non-greasy moisturiser • Put it into the refrigerator and let it solidify for 10 minutes. that doesn’t take time to sink into the skin, and can be lathered on hands and feet too. • Take the mixture out and whisk it for a few minutes. • Use a hand whisk or an electric whisk, whichever you have on hand. • Add the mixture in a tight container and store in a dry place. 2 Homemade Moisturiser for Aged/Mature Skin Vitamin E is an essential skin-nourishing nutrient Ingredients • Coconut Oil 4 Tbsp. that moisturises the skin and improves its elasticity. • Vitamin E 1 Tsp. • Any Favourite Essential Oil 4 drops More stress is given to taking vitamin E rich foods for slowing the ageing process, though along with • Cocoa Butter 3 Tbsp. that, applying vitamin E on the skin assures its daily intake and works wonders for glowing skin. Method This could also pose as a wonderful moisturiser for • Melt coconut oil and cocoa butter in a double boiler. Mix reducing freckles, age spots, and dark circles. them together and allow the mixture to cool down a bit. For aged/mature skin, you can make your own • Add vitamin E oil and your favourite essential oil into the moisturiser by taking cocoa butter, vitamin E, and coconut oil. If you’re sensitive to coconut oil, mixture. For 1 hour, place the mixture into the fridge. replace it with almond oil or olive oil to keep from • Whisk the mixture until it becomes lighter and whipped in developing any skin issues. texture. Then place it again in the fridge for half an hour. 32 • Take out the mixture and whisk it again until it’s fluffy. Put into a jar and use it at night before bed since our skin restores and rejuvenates better while we sleep.

3 Homemade Moisturiser For Oily Skin Green tea has an ancient background and is used in tons Ingredients of beauty products, thanks to its cure-all status and obvious • Loose Green Tea 2 Tbs. healing properties. With a high level of antioxidant content, it • Coconut Oil 1 cup bids impressive results on oily skin and definitely doesn’t feel like an oil slick, neither dries out your skin. Method • Take a double boiler and melt coconut oil on medium heat. It’s a mistake if you believe that oily skin doesn’t need • Add in the green tea and give a stir. moisture, because if it isn’t sufficiently moisturised, oily skin • Cover the boiler and let it simmer for an hour over the produces more sebum to make up for dehydration. A few other bonuses of using green tea are reduced sun damage, lowest heat setting. acne, and premature ageing. • Use cheesecloth to separate green tea from coconut oil. • Let it cool until solid. This recipe uses only two ingredients: green tea and coconut • Then whip them together for 3-5 minutes or until creamy. oil. In case of any allergies or sensitivities, you can switch up coconut oil for some other botanical oil. 4 An All-Rounder Skin Perfecting Moisturiser Sometimes, you need a moisturiser that just moisturises and works Ingredients • Rose Water 4-5 Tbsp. absolutely fine on all skin types. To make things simple and stress- • Apples 2 free, we are sharing a recipe of a skin-perfecting cream, which conditions your skin beautifully and at the same time heals many • Olive Oil 1 Tsp. skin issues. Be it dullness, itchiness, rosacea or any other skin problem. Guess what? It takes only seconds to whip up using these Method three ingredients: apples, olive oil, and rose water. • Cut the apples and deseed them. • Add the apples to a blender along with olive oil. This moisturiser is a miracle-worker and rivals all other countertop • Blend until you achieve a smooth, fine paste. solutions. It nourishes, relieves, heals and delivers glowing skin with • Transfer the mixture to a pan and let it simmer each use. Apples contain vitamin A, C, and B and a host of powerful antioxidants that remove dull skin for new skin to resurface. Olive on low heat. oil encompasses anti-bacterial and skin-nourishing qualities. Rose • Remove it from the heat and add rose water to water refreshes and makes the skin look and feel awake. the mixture. • Store the content in the refrigerator. • This can only be used for a week. 33

A moisturiser that is chemical-based may hydrate the skin and give fast results, but it won’t provide any long-term benefits. Natural homemade moisturisers, on the other hand, work slowly but always win the race by providing long-term skin- improving benefits. 34

TAKING LESSONS FROM MANSOUR BIN JABR 35

1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF My name is Mansour Bin Jabr, a 32 year old Emirati. I’m an investor, venture capitalist, philanthropist, environmentalist, and a former UAE rally champion. 2. WHAT ARE YOUR LATEST BUSINESS VENTURES AND WHY? My latest business ventures are gold and cobalt mining in Congo. I’m also focused on producing biomass charcoal to save the world from deforestation, especially in Africa. One of my goals is to save the outnumbered gorillas in Congo, because most of them fled to Rwanda and Uganda. I’m trying to build an orphanage-like facility for these gorillas. I also have a medical cannabis facility in Africa, as well. I’m focusing on a lot of agriculture at the moment, mostly superfoods like ginger, turmeric, avocado, and blueberries. I’m diversifying and rerouting my focus from oil and gas production and hospitality to permaculture, agriculture and mining. 36

3. WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS? 5. WHAT JOBS/BUSINESSES DO YOU CONSIDER Success is what you give back—it’s not what you earn THE JOBS/BUSINESSES OF THE FUTURE? when you help. It’s how you create change, how you help That’s a tough question for a person like me who in the ecosystem and basically keep nature in its place; doesn’t believe in getting jobs to be honest—I believe that is, to make nature’s and people’s lives better. At the in entrepreneurship. I believe you shouldn’t work for end of the day, that’s what counts on your scorecards. somebody else. You should create your own business. You should work for yourself. Some people want to 4. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? work and they say that starting your own business is I’m motivated by changes to make the world a better not easy. place. It’s not money. I used to be motivated by money before, I earned a lot of it and then I realise what’s next for I believe that everyone should follow his passion. If me? I made a lot of money, enough for me to live in two your passion is in the medical field, do it. If you want generations. So it’s clearly not my motivation. I was born to be a soldier, firefighter or a policeman to save the into a very wealthy family and I made my own money community and help the community, then do it. To work down the road. I’m blessed that I had an awakening at a for someone else and to make someone else rich, just to very early age, realising that my motivation is not money. earn a low income, I don’t believe in that. It’s what you contribute back to society and to the earth. 37

6. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN BUSINESS? One piece of advice I’d give to someone starting a business is to just go for it. If they believe in it, and they’re passionate about it, do not think twice. There’s no failure; there are only lessons to learn. You need to get out of your comfort zone and take risks. You’re going to fail at some point, you will feel ashamed and you will realise that it might not be the business for you, but that’s not the end of the road. They are just valuable lessons that you take for yourself. You just need the courage and strong heart to actually move forward. 7. HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WHEN SUCCESS IS NO LONGER YOUR MAIN FOCUS? I spent a lot of time in African villages with indigenous people. Whichever country I am in, I’m always connected with the real locals. I’m not a city guy. I like to experience a country’s culture. I look after my mental health by spending a lot of time in nature. I’m also into meditation and exercising a lot. Running and handling a lot of businesses all over the world is not easy. I release a lot of stress in the gym. I do a lot of boxing. I hit the punching bag, and that’s how I actually stay sane. 8. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? I would say to just take every risk he can get. There’s a lot of time to catch up, make mistakes and to climb back out of a hole that he might fall in if he fails. High risks may produce high returns. I wouldn’t say all calculated risks will surely give you a good return, but as I said, courage and just a strong heart will take you a long way. 38

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9. WHAT ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH OUTSIDE OF BUSINESS? I’m involved in a lot of environmental activities, and one of my battles in life is fighting against deforestation, as well as engaging in philanthropic activities. These include supplying solar panels to villages and supplying small African villages with water out of air. We have this machinery that we usually supply to militaries and defences, which creates clean water out of moisture and humidity. 10. WHAT QUESTIONS HAVE YOU BEEN ASKING YOURSELF RECENTLY? When will all the governments of the world unite and fight global warming? This is a very serious problem. I’m talking about reversing global warming because its damaging effects are palpable more than ever. Sustaining it is not going to solve the problem. We need to reverse it. Another question that I keep asking myself: why has nothing changed up to this date? That’s a billion-dollar question in my head. 11. WHAT’S THAT ONE QUOTE THAT YOU LIVE BY? Tough times don’t last—tough people do. In life, you’re going to experience hard times. You just need to keep going. Strong people survive—the survival of the fittest. It’s like the wildlife in the jungle, if you’re strong you’ll survive, and the weak are eaten. That’s my motto. 40

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TALENT POOL Saif and Sound DJ and Radio Presenter www.saifandsound.com @saifandsoundofficial 42youtube.com/saifandsound

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TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. perfect fit for me. I only realised that later My name is Saif Al Naji, but most because radio combined music with the people know me as Saif and Sound media element. I studied journalism or just Saif for short. I’m 28 years old, and media at university. It’s the perfect originally from Jordan, but I was born combination for all my interests to come and raised here in the UAE. I grew up in together in one job. Abu Dhabi, but a couple of years ago, I moved to Dubai. I earned my Bachelor’s WHAT’S BEEN YOUR CAREER Degree at the American University in HIGHLIGHT TO DATE? Dubai. I started DJing when I was 15 That’s a very broad question. The years old, as far as I remember. I’ve highlight is really looking back at my life been a die-hard music fan from a very when I started DJing in my bedroom. young age. At 18, I started working in I was watching videos of other DJs, the radio industry. other media personalities, producers, headlining festivals, starting their own TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT projects, interviewing celebrities going YOUR CAREER SO FAR, HAVE on tour, and so on. YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A PRESENTER AND DJ? WHAT I used to get goosebumps in my WAS THE DREAM? bedroom, thinking about being in that Back when I started my Bachelor’s, position. It was an unreachable dream I didn’t feel fulfilled. DJing was not at that time, but when I look at my life enough, and at that time, I couldn’t do right now, and I’m actually doing what a lot of gigs or concerts, because one I dreamed of maybe ten years or so needs to be over 21 to obtain a license years ago. It happened so fast because to be a DJ at some venues. I didn’t in the past couple of years, I’ve been have a big name, and I was on my own busy and focused on my career, job, when I started. and perfecting my craft. I always listened to the radio and Radio It’s overwhelming to achieve those 1 was my favourite station, it still is. I dreams that I’ve set for myself. Now, took a chance by sending them a letter I didn’t really set it, it just happened. expressing my interest in an internship. It was always in the back of my head Surprisingly, they accepted my request and this is why I always try to be the and brought me in for three months. I best and become a better version of used to go straight after classes to the myself. radio station, stayed a couple of hours with the presenters, and learned all THE TYPICAL QUESTION the ins and outs of this job. After three USUALLY IS, “IF YOU WERE NOT months, they offered me a freelance A MEDIA PERSONALITY, WHAT contract, although I had no experience WOULD YOU BE DOING?” in radio. Three months wasn’t enough HOWEVER, OUR QUESTION IS, to learn all the skills, but they saw the “WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING hunger and passion I had. They took a IF THERE WAS NOTHING YOU chance on me a year later, offered me COULDN’T DO?” a full-time contract and that’s when the I know for sure that if I wasn’t going Saif and Sound Empire started. to be a DJ, I would do something that has to do with music. I would still I wanted to be a DJ more than a be a performer. Maybe a singer, or a presenter. I knew from day one that I rapper. Music is the backbone of my wanted to do something that has to do life. What’s really funny is, no one in with music. Back then, it was DJing that my family is into music. When people I wanted to develop. That’s why I started ask me how I got into this industry, my producing music, but then the radio answer is that I didn’t really get into just kinda fell on my lap, and it was the it—I think music found me. 46

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WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? doing in life, then that is the ultimate definition Nothing motivates me but myself. Before, I was on of success. Success is also about following one’s my own and my family didn’t support me because dreams and attaining the impossible. they didn’t understand the business that I’m in. It was only a couple of years ago that my family Success is also having a positive impact on people. understood what I was actually doing, and began You could even have the easiest job in life and to take it seriously. To them, DJing or being a radio make other people happy. For you to be fulfilled presenter was just a hobby, but they didn’t realise with what you’re doing, you need to make other that this could be done as a full-time job. people happy as well. I’ve always motivated myself. I talk to myself all WHO WOULD YOU SAY HAS the time and I keep pushing myself. The people INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER THE MOST around me also drive me. I’ve been blessed enough AND WHY? to have an incredible fan base. People around In all these years, I haven’t been influenced by me have been extremely supportive, whether it’s anyone on a considerable level. I didn’t have an on the radio, the people who listen to me, my idol that I’ve looked up to as my model of success. followers on social media, or the people who attend my gigs. They will tell me that I’m amazing But then, recently, I truly realised that my mom at what I do. I also inspire them, and some of them has been a major influence in my life. Ever since I want to become like me one day. That’s the best was a kid, she’s the one who believed in me, and motivation that anybody could get. in what I do. Even though I come from a slightly conservative family, she gave me the freedom to HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS AND do what I wanted. She saw something in me, and HOW DO YOU MEASURE IT? she’s sure that I’m going to be successful at it. Until Success is a state of mind. It can be defined now, she has been my biggest supporter from a differently from one person to another. I truly believe distance. Even though she doesn’t understand the that if you want to be successful in life, you need music I play nor understand what I say over the to define success before anything else. Once you radio, she still supports me. The person that has define what success is, then you can easily obtain influenced me the most has been next to me the it. If you’re happy and satisfied with what you’re whole time. 48

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TELL US ABOUT YOUR VENTURES OUTSIDE OF THE RADIO AND DJING. I would say my biggest venture outside of radio is starting my own creative agency which somehow complements what I really do. I started The Project about four years ago. It’s a creative agency where we do different projects within the line of music, events and entertainment which I’m heavily involved in. We engage in talent management, which is the core of our business, to event organisation, as well as event execution, branding, designing, and social media management. I’ve used my experience, connections and database to utilise that in the company and capitalise on my margin. Instead of the brand being all about me, I thought that when I become old, the brand is not going to be like it is right now, so I wanted to focus my energy and experience on my company for it to flourish. Today I’m in high demand because I’m young and energetic, but when I start a family and have kids, things are going to be a lot quieter. I have some other investments as well to secure my future. 50