GCCBConnect Newsletter - 1st Edition

September 2020 #GCCBConnect Welcome to Gulf Coca-Cola Beverage (GCCB)’s first 2020 issue of our quarterly newsletter actively connecting management, employees and families including our customers as one Coca-Cola Team. We hope that you will find this newsletter both informative & motivating as you read the latest business updates, employee’s success stories…… and fun side of life. Our sincere thanks to our Contributors enhancing our lives with their personal stories and our Team Leads for their enthusiastic commitment making our newsletter an absorbing and fun read. Our thanks to our HR Director of GCCB Virginia Cabrera for initiating GCCB newsletter and to our Managing Director Mohamed Akeel for his constant People initiative support to all of us. Our features inside: ▪ Celebrating Employees Success ▪ LEAD Mnemonics & Oman’s Secret Ingredient ▪ Business Overview & Plant News ▪ IT News ▪ Wellness ▪ Life Outside Coke ▪ Adventures Corner ▪ Around the World with KO ▪ Heart warming Stories ▪ Love from Home Message from: Managing Director, GCCB Mohamed Akeel It is finally here! I am very pleased to share with you our first release of GCCB connect which will showcase our adventures, loves, hobbies in and out of Coke! I hope you all enjoy it ❤️ The strength of GCCB lies in all of us, our connections - in the good and in the bad times, whether near or far.. let’s keep going as one team! I am very proud of all of you and wish you many happy smiles as you relax and enjoy this first issue! Message from: Human Resources Director, GCCB Virginia Cabrera We couldn’t be prouder of this first edition of GCCB connect , we thank our volunteers, Content Champions on our labor of love for each one of us! It is one team that has focused on reaching out. I hope this issue makes you smile and proud to be part of GCCB wherever you maybe. Thank you for making us a part of your day, your family, your life! We would love to hear your feedback and hopefully, welcome you as part of the newsletter team very soon ❤️ Enjoy!

“A century is about events. A decade is about people.” — George Friedman WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK FOR THE GCCB FOR MORE THAN 29+ YEARS Thoughtful Messages from our Associates Marydasan Edison Ali Waris Munaras Lakshmi Narayan Joining Date 20 May 89 Joining Date 15 Feb 89 Joining Date: 20 August 91 (31 Yrs.) (31Yrs) (29 years) Syrup Room Technician Security In-charge Delivery Driver My happiness prevails here… by My 31 years rewarding journey with The Lakshmi Narayan started his career in Marydasan Edison – Syrup Room Coca-Cola Bottling Company – Bahrain , Ras Al Khaimah, UAE as a helper and Technician By Ali Waris – Security In-Charge got promoted as Delivery Driver. My native place is Kerala, married with My journey started from my native place He is our Coca-Cola Man in Ras Al two children. I joined the company in in Swat, Pakistan to Bahrain in 1989 Khaimah delivering Coca-Cola 1989 and initially worked in the factory being fortunate to join the company on the products for the last 29 years. construction. When the plant operation Security team during the construction of started, I joined the production team the Coca-Cola factory. I joined at the age He is a shining example of an and was working directly on production of 19, working initially as a regular employee with passion for his role and line and in the syrup room. security staff but in due course trained for the Company being as enthusiastic and rewarded with additional as he was when he joined the For the past 25 years, I have been responsibilities of a cashier and in charge Company. working in the syrup room. My service of fueling the vehicles. As the Company’s period with TCCBCB was a fulfilling operations expanded, I was promoted to He tells us that he is thankful to the experience of both teamwork and Security In-Charge and given the Coca-Cola Bottling Company and his continuous learning and above all responsibility for the administration of the colleagues as he believes that friendship that will forever remain as staff accommodation. whatever he has in life today is happy and fun memories. because of the reward and recognition I am truly proud to belong to this great he has received from the Company. The Company was initially known a Company where performance is National Food Beverage Company, recognized, and employee’s welfare is the His hometown is Andhra Pradesh, now known as The Coca-Cola Bottling number one priority of the management. India. Married, blessed with two lovely Company of Bahrain (TCCBCB). Today thanks to The Coca-Cola Bottling sons who are in Grade 12 and Grade Company, I have my own home in 10. He and his family are very grateful I still have the energy and interest to Pakistan and blessed with four children and proud to be a part of Coke family. work more for TCCBCB only because I pursuing higher education. I must also have always found happiness add that the Kingdom of Bahrain is the With his smile…..he makes sure he here……. However, as all good things best country in the Gulf to work as the spreads the message of “Taste the must come to an end, I will be retiring government is very supportive of the feeling of Coke Happiness”. soon. Wishing TCCBCB continual expatriate community. success in the Middle East. Coca- By : Muhammad Zafar Iqbal – Depot Cola will always be our family brand I look forward to coming to work every In-Charge- RAK back home in Kerala. day….and hope to continue working at CCBCB until I retire. Inshallah Thank you for your over 30+ years of dedication and efficient service to our company. Your loyalty has been exceptional, and you are an excellent example to all to stay motivated and committed to the Company. We are happy to see that you have found fulfilment at our GCCB Company. September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

#GCCBFriendship MNEMONICS Introduction – A mnemonic is a memory tool which includes a system Life@Coke Feature: such as a pattern of letters, ideas, or associations which assists in Oman’s Secret Ingredient remembering something. In my quarterly column I will present ideas on talent and organizational development using easy to remember Oman is famous for fresh, sea air of breathing. Muscat is abbreviations. Let us start the first one with the obvious – GCCB. In famous for dazzling souks and superb sea food and famous this article I am going to discuss how each one of us can work Omani sweets known as Omani Halva. Oman terrain brings together to make GCCB a better place to work. “Alone we are Smart, the biggest thrills too- from the desert-scape of the Empty together we are BRILLIANT” Quarter to the lush green south with its fruit plantations and wildlife. It has the highest mountain on the peninsula as well Give your Best – Our work is where we spend over a third of our day. as enchanting cities, sparkling sea, canyons and fjords. The 8 hours that we put here ensures that we have the rest of our But for us in Coke there is another reason to love Oman and lives by helping in putting a roof over our head, clothes to wear, food that is because of our Oman team. The team scored the on our plates and the means to support our families. If you do not give highest in our Pulse survey scores not only in GCCB but the your best in this aspect, you will not be able to give your best in any rest of the BIG world besting other big teams with more other aspect of your life. structured engagement programs. Curiosity led me to speak to our teams there and what I learned warmed my heart ❤️ One of our action items for managers and leaders is to “Appreciate” all their secret formula was simple: each and every person your best efforts as part of our LEAD action plan. made it his or her mission to make it a Great Place To Work. Amongst themselves without any directive they treat Communicate Freely – If we ensure we do our best and always do each other as family - working, dreaming , losing and the right thing, we will have the confidence to communicate freely. The succeeding together. It is not to say that the team does not only way we can create an amazing organization to work is when each have any challenges before them, but they look to the future one of us communicates with respect and without fear, upwards, as one. downwards and sideways. Virginia Cabrera One of our action items for managers and leaders is to “Listen” to HR Director, GCCB you openly without judgement as part of our LEAD action. SECRET FORMULA! Create the Culture – A famous quote by Mahatma Gandhi says, “Be the change that you want to see around you”. What it means for us is that if we want to create a good organizational culture, each one of us must work towards it. It is not the responsibility of the Managing Director, Senior Leaders or Human Resources alone to make a difference. So next time when you say there is an issue, produce solutions and go ahead and implement what you can. One of our action items for managers and leaders is to “Empower” you make a difference, as part of our LEAD action. Believe in our Organization – In order to belong to the organization, we need to believe the organization. We need to trust that the organization that we create has the good of each employee in mind. So when you get frustrated speak openly, when you see something wrong change it and always give your best and the organization will reward you back. One of our action items for managers and leaders is to “Develop” you in order to develop the organization, part of our LEAD action. #LEADGCCB Team Lead George Mathew L&D Manager UAE & Oman HR Manager – Plant, UAE September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

GCCB – 2020 KEEPING YOU POSTED ON OVERVIEW PLANT NEWS The dawn of 2020 came with the promise of being the best- ever year for GCCB and its four markets. Under a new Al Ain 2020 Projects management structure and with a focus on being among Innovation & Re-innovation the leading BIG performers in all key commercial metrics, we began on our journey. Q1 2020 began well, with us • PET CSD Light Weight projects (e.g.: From 1810 to 1881 gaining share in 3 markets (UAE, Bahrain and Qatar), while Neck finish) maintaining our share in Oman. We also achieved strong revenue growth in the first 2 months particularly in Bahrain • CO2 Tank – Increase capacity and UAE. Bahrain and Qatar outperformed in Order Fill • NRGB Blowers installation Rate and Must-have SKU achievement. However, with • Ammonia Compressor #2 & #4 upgrading Covid-19 impacting the world, our business too suffered. • Safety Barriers Installation We had to sharply revise our projections, focus on fewer • Loading ramp WH Installation key SKUs, customer management as outlets were closed • L2 labeler Installation upgrading and accounts receivable during this challenging time. Our • L4 Filling Hall AC Installation market share too took a heavy hit in the months of April • L3 Palletizer Infeed rollers Installation upgrading and May. As the COVID-19 situation has started improving and restrictions started getting lifted, TEAM GCCB got back to doing what they do best – executing in the market, while making sure to follow all safety protocols. Initially improvements was gradual, but recent numbers are very encouraging. Qatar and UAE reached all-time highs in Strike Rates (66% and 65%) and Must-have SKUs (99% and 98% respectively). Call completion rates have improved in all markets, while unscheduled orders are starting to come down. Debtor days are trending downwards, with Oman showing good reduction. Over the remainder of the year, we are focused on recovering market share in all markets, while at the same time, continuing to build on improving on Debtor Days, PADE (Profit after Direct Expenses) and moving to best in class execution within BIG. We look forward to building a strong base for 2021, which shall see the Dubai Expo taking centerstage. QEOSH Manager Al Ain Plant, UAE September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

IT NEWS In 2014 my dream had come true and I was now part of an exciting and skillful IT Team. Since then I have never looked back and now accompanied by my wife and two daughters I look ahead to a bright future (InshaAllah). While it's been an honor for me to represent IT at GCCB level, being involved in the newsletter has given me an opportunity to project the tireless efforts of my team. I believe this Newsletter will snap the boundaries and make GCCB stronger than ever.. Let’s take a walk down the memory lane to March 2020 . It was when we all started hearing about working from home due to COVID-19. We all expected it to go by with less impact, but who knew that we were about to be hit by a storm. Team Lead Mohammad Uzair Work From Home (WFH) IT Technical Assistant, UAE Adhering to the government instructions of WFH, IT warriors prepared a virtual tunnel in less than 24hrs to allow users to work from home with Laptops. Not only did the back- end office team were able to work from home seamlessly, UAE Call-Center was fully operational from HOME. Agents were making and taking calls from their couches and chairs . No one ever thought this would happen, no one ever thought it would be required. Dawn of Digitization Once IT warriors overcame the challenge and requirements of managing WFH across GCCB. It’s our time now for the warriors to step-up and facilitate business in continuing selling. Going to market amidst Global Pandemic was a HUGE challenge and risk, while keeping safety as GCCB’s prime priority, management guided us to start a BIGBANG expansion of B2B Ordering App to facilitate our GCCB- HEROES during this crisis. B2B Channel was launched in mid 2018 which enabled our customers to place their order directly from their mobile device. Customer ordering was just a few clicks away. GCCB-IT warriors had broken all the barriers and transformed the communication across all locations. The Qatar team made it possible for MD (M.Akeel) to even connect with quarantined staff virtually during the tough times at staff accommodation. FREE Wifi was made available within the offices of UAE/OMAN during Townhall sessions to reach maximum audience Virtual Training / Meetings were on the rise, smart ordering, Digital Health Declaration, Smart business process, paperless e-receipt and thermal sensor cameras came into action. It was truly the beginning of new ERA , beginning of DIGITIZATION GCCB-HEROES stood strong during these tough times and were determined to come out of the crises as winners and leaders. The pure definition of digital day is when B2B channels are used as the only source of ordering. Such drives prepare us for the unseen future and enable us to start existing in customers' mobile. It's the trend and need of the hour post COVID-19. This allows us to virtually be present in customers Mobile 24/7 and be able to contact them whenever we want, wherever we want. DIGITAL DAYS come with a flavor of competition among GCCB-HEROES as the top three performers get RECOGNISED by MD. Corporate Security Advanced technology and User awareness are two key elements that are essential to ensure information security. Users come across phishing emails with malicious attachment and links which can lead to privacy theft and leave a door of our system for hackers. A new functionality was launched across GCCB called Safelink which instructed the system to scan the URL/Links received in the email and only allowed it to proceed if found safe and genuine . Also, incorporated was a Two-Factor authentication feature where an OTP (One Time Password) is sent on the user's registered mobile number if emails are accessed from an unknown device. September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

Team Lead WELLNESS Kristina Gribinets Taking care of your Body, Mind and Soul Marketing Manager Key to a healthier YOU Bahrain What helped me to reach to my wellbeing Decide to make a change. Unless you decide that this is something you want and you do for yourself, it will never be sustainable. Listen to your body. Sometimes you need to give your body a break, and that is ok. As long as you get back on track afterwards. Never skip your breakfast. It is the most important meal that starts your metabolism and gives energy for the day. It’s ok to ‘cheat’. I still eat chocolates; I still snack on chips and eat burgers ; and that is completely fine. We deserve a reward. Good sleep. Number of hours of a good night’s sleep differs from person to person but is important to have quality sleep so our body can rest. Acknowledge your feelings. It is ok to feel the way you feel. Sad or happy, , allow yourself to feel and don’t get stuck in your emotions. Support system. It is important to have at least one person in your life that you can really talk to. A family member, a friend, a colleague – we all need to unwind sometimes and share what we are going through. One day or day one. It’s your choice! Check Your Knowledge 1. The definition of wellness is 2. Wellness is the balance of 3. The maintenance of the a. The state of optimal health a. Mind and spirit body and its overall b. Body and mind wellness is called within the mind, body and c. Body and spirit a. Psychological health spirit d. Body, mind and spirit b. Bodily health b. Feeling fantastic physically c. Physical health c. Not being sick d. Physiological health d. Great physical health Send your answers to [email protected] and get a chance to win personalized nutrition and workout plan September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

Today is an exciting day for GCCB as our inaugural edition of the newsletter is finally out! It is very well said that, \"Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” and that is why our goal through this segment is to share the experiences shared by our fellow GCCBians about their life outside of Work... To begin with, here’s a little about myself... I am a GT Sales Supervisor based in Al Ain, UAE & a mother of a lovely 15-month-old daughter. I must say that becoming a mother has helped me gain some new perspective and has changed my outlook on life, for the better of course. Earlier my life outside of work would be a typical day with my friends, watching a movie, sharing a meal or sometimes simply lounging at home. But life has now taken a 180 degree turn as it has all become about my little one and I must say I’m loving every moment of it. I find happiness in doing things for my daughter and try to focus all my time outside of work towards that. Whether Team Lead it is experimenting on new healthy dishes for her, or picking out little clothes for her, it's a win-win for both of us Arzu Merchant :)…… General Trade Supervisor, Now, Let's have a look at some of the very interesting stuff shared by our colleagues across the GCCB borders Al Ain - UAE With Mohamed Akeel Staying Active.. Staying Happy with Coke! Managing Director GCCB, UAE I had the great pleasure of interviewing our Managing Director of I am Lalaine Belano, mother of four GCCB, Mr. Mohamed Akeel. He offered some stellar advice and amazing children – ages 26 to 14. I have is a great example for anyone who wants to excel at work while been working as a Key Accounts Executive – maintaining a healthy social life. Modern Trade, Sales in Bahrain for the past 7 years. It is a tough, highly competitive role His favorite pursuits are daily exercises, playing Golf & Cricket filled with challenges, but also thrilling to be including focus on charitable endeavors. representing the world’s famous brand Coca- Cola. Truly proud! He said that you are bound to be exposed to Cricket when growing up in the subcontinent, and it was no different for him. I engage in physical activities to strengthen my mind and body. This interest quickly developed into a passion and led him to My work out routine is running at least twice a week. I enjoy represent his state at the under 16 level. As for golf, it all started participating in sports i.e. Marathon, Aquathlon and Spartan. around 15 years ago. Recently I joined a sport called Dragon boat racing – a team sport that encompasses the elements of power, speed, Many of us have the perception that Golf is a sport only the elite synchronization and endurance. can afford, to which he explained… I am sharing my staying active lifestyle with you as I believe It may appear so at the beginning when you need to purchase the that participating in sports activities will benefit your general golf kit. However, once you pass that hiccup, it is not the case at health and well-being irrespective of your full busy life at work all. Being eager to start playing golf back then, he started with and home. Additional bonus, opportunities to make new a refurbished kit himself. friends, feel confident, feel anxious or stressed and even less physical pain above all feel capable and happy. \"It's a gentleman's game\" he said, where you compete against yourself and that is a challenge, he finds it very thrilling. It also instills in him with a sense of forbearance since a single game can easily stretch up to 6 hours! He also emphasizes the importance of making time during Lalaine Belano, Sales Executive, Modern Trade - Sales, Bahrain weekdays for some physical activities. He ensures to go for a run/workout at least twice a week. His active lifestyle & ace time Hobby.. RAFTING management skills can be attributed to his disciplined routine. He's zealous for what he does and believes in seizing the day. At times when he is low in spirits, paying a visit to the less fortunate always helps him with all the contentment and gratitude needed to power through. A message to the GCCB Associates Everyone must make time & indulge in Mohammed Salmi at least one activity. We often feel Commercial Manager, Qatar dejected in life, only because of the frustrations we build up in ourselves. We keep putting off moments of self- care for later & don’t realize the importance of working on ourselves. To carve time out in our schedules may be difficult but is not impossible, additionally it will help us know our potential & add more value to our life. September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

Fatima Ismail, I am passionate about traveling It is not My Passion is fishing Receptionist, Bahrain only a way for me to relax completely and diving but also helps me get away from daily life's routine. The best part of travelling It’s a stress buster for me as it is meeting new people and learning new helps me forget about the daily things, discovering new cultures routine of life & spend time with family & friends. Last year I travelled to Germany and visited Europa Park, the second largest I used to go to the sea with my theme park in Europe. To my wonderful father at a very young age. I surprise they had a Coke gift shop, spend Fridays, enjoying & having collections of Coca-Cola themed relaxing in the cool and gifts & collectibles. refreshing sea water of Bahrain and ensure I have my Introducing myself at the venue as a portable fridge with my favorite Bahraini national belonging to The Ammar Hussain Ahmed Coca-Cola products. Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Bahrain Fleet Supervisor, Bahrain was done with pride Coca-Cola Ambassador. Fishing is a great hobby that many people can enjoy. Folks of all ages and abilities can learn to fish. It’s both relaxing and exciting, and it doesn’t cost much money and a great family recreational activity. . Stress Relief: Ask most anglers why they enjoy spending time in the outdoors and you’re likely to hear the word “freedom.” Nothing brings on the sense of being alive and helps to rebuild our personal reserves like a day spent interacting with nature. Social Bonding: Sharing a fishing experience helps strengthen relationships with family and friends. It also offers a person the chance to give back to society through mentoring others in the pleasure and importance of being good stewards of our natural resources. Recreation: Having a bad day of fishing still beats a day in the office or tending to house chores. The most common reason you will find with people who like to fish is that it is simply fun, whether you enjoy trolling for bass fish or outwitting a weary brook trout with a hand-tied fly that imitates an insect the size of a pin head. The Thrill: Fishing has a way of fulfilling an age-old need of pursuing and catching. The thrill lies in the challenge, such as stalking an elusive wild trout or matching the hatch. But there are many who will be quick to profess that it’s not the catching of fish that’s important, but the immeasurable life lessons that you will experience along the way. Makeen Khan CIO GCCB, UAE Time to be Resilient What you are looking for is already in you…You already are everything you are seeking”. (Thich Nhat Hanh) The impact of the global Covid-19 pandemic has forever changed our experiences as employees, customers, citizens, humans and our attitudes and behaviors are changing as a result. As we transit to the new normal, now is the time to check our life at Coke and exhibit our leadership quality “We are all responsible together”, to lead efficiently in unchartered waters. Leadership’s call today is to be an empathetic leader in our business, staying connected and inspiring your team to continue doing their best, engage effectively with our customers and finally mitigate the uncertainties with strategic decision in line with the changing scenarios. I personally believe one key element to successfully navigate the impact of Covid-19 is being Empathetic and accommodating differences and uniqueness with your team members. Empathy is the capacity to understand and share the experiences of others; it is our ability to experience the world through someone else’s eyes, listen through someone ears and feel through someone’s heart. If we can comprehend how others feels and looks different to each one of us — that our experiences and challenges are not the same — every individual differ in the way, they think and act- possibly we can find ways to collaboratively build a collective future that is better for all. Contrasting to many other skills, empathy has the power to unite us and generate a drive to move forward with enough energy and intrinsic motivation. It’s time to put on oneself into other’s shoes for a better progress in our new normal. I am here to respond with empathy and resilience, how about You? Shiv Dev, HoReCa Manager, UAE September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

This column “ GCCB Adventures corner” is a good opportunity for you to share what kind of adventures you explored or what makes you feel adventurous, be it any sport activity or may be reading some thriller or historical book…may be travelling to a far tourist place and we hope that through your experiences, interests and activities, we can be inspired & learn from you. Team Lead Personally, I love to travel, and I have travelled extensively for almost a decade, the Om Kumar Shukla length and breadth of India. In my memory it was extremely adventurous and one of the most awesome experience was to see the last point of India at Kanyakumari after Plant Manager travelling more than 2500 kms KM from my home in Tamil Nadu where the Indian Qatar Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal sea merge. Let’s explore our beautiful earth & diverse world and share our moments Mohamed Akeel On Feb. 18th’2020, was a sweet Amit Shetty Managing Director GCCB occasion celebrating my wife Procurement Manager, GCCB Ameena’s birthday we took an adventures skydiving together Trek to a Frozen Wilderness which was nothing less than a dream come true for her. It was We all have dreams of doing something different in our lives, have WOW moment for us! some adventure, exploring places, going out of our comfort zone. Then we are caught up in the “rat race “and family and kids and office and we My Journey to Mixed Martial Art (MMA) usually have adventures as our last priority. I like the outdoors, nature, Championship love to travel and see new places. I started my training at the age of Earlier this year through some common friends I came to know of an 19. Mixed Martial Art ( MMA ) is not annual trek which is at a “high altitude “and “cold weather “trek to just about brutal fighting, it’s an art Ladakh – northern part of India in the Himalayas. It’s done only in — it’s all about determination, January every year because it involves walking over a frozen river for 5 discipline, hard work, consistency, days in sub-zero temperatures ( -25 degrees C) and high altitude of focus, patience and above all 11500 feet above sea level. My friend from Bahrain was going on this practice, practice and practice… trek and I had read about its years back and found it to be fascinating. When I got the opportunity, I immediately signed up. I have won several awards n GCC Ali Al Showaikh with my biggest achievement was Sales Associate, Bahrain We had to prepare by getting cold weather clothing and trekking gear winning the Bronze medal in Arab and get into reasonable fitness. The big day arrived, and we flew into Muay Thai Championship 2019 “Leh” Airport on a cold winter morning. The chill sucked the breath out held in Abu Dhabi of us. We were wearing 4 layers of clothes and still were shivering. We had to acclimatize for 3 days and go through a medical test. The Take a Picture Today Daily Smile altitude is an issue with the air being very thin and people get breathing Feel Happy Tomorrow difficulties and altitude sickness, you run out of breath by just going up a flight of stairs. We had a team of porters and the trek organizers along with us to take care of all logistics and food and carrying the gear. There were no hotels on the river itself, we had to stay in tents and use sleeping bags, the porters cooked great hot food and we had dinner in a large tent every night. I made new friends over dinner with my fellow trekkers who had come from various parts of the country. The trek was memorable, we had to walk all day on ice with some patches where the water flowed, and the ice was broken apart. We had only the great mountains and river for company, completely cut off from everything, no civilization, no wi-fi, no phone signal, no electricity. We finished the trek and returned to the town and spent the next day exploring the town of Leh, visiting monasteries, and old palaces. Thereafter it was back to Bahrain and society. This was a memorable experience, which rekindled my love for the outdoors. Ajay Al Kamil, Salalah #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect September Edition

HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE. That is my ALL AROUND THE WORLD WITH KO! mantra ,,,, my motivating chant when I decided to stay here in Qatar apart Chicken Adobo with Sprite from my 3 children and husband. Yes, it is very difficult to be a mother Recipe by separated from her growing children Cris D Castro with time and years rolling on. Machine However, there is always a reason for Operator, Plant everything. You just must be grateful Qatar for what life always offers you. I am always grateful for my work at Easy Cooking Steps Ingredients Coca-Cola, for my colleagues, for my 1. Heat pan with 2 tbsp. cooking oil • 800g chopped chicken friends, for the food on my plate , and 2. Saute garlic, ginger and onion • 3 cloves garlic even for the sales that is going on at 3. Add chicken and mix with • 1/8 cup ginger the mall…. I choose to be happy…. • 1 whole onion vinegar, soy sauce and Sprite. • 2 pieces chili Team Lead - This column “All Around the world with 4. Cover and let it simmer for 15 • 1/8 cup soy sauce Katherine Testado KO “is a good opportunity for you to • 1 tsp. vinegar Marketing Supervisor, share what makes you HAPPY… And mins. Until l dry. • 1 cup sprite we hope that through your 5. Add chopped chilis Qatar experiences, interests and recipes, we can also learn from you. Fried chicken with Coca-Cola CHEESY Tuna Carbonara Recipe by Christianne Flores Receptionist Dubai Office “Mommy this is the Best Tuna Carbonara I ever tasted in During the EID Holidays, we stayed only at home. So, all I think is about the whole wide world !!! …” food. Food that my kids would enjoy during the holidays. Since we are a fan of Fried Chicken and Coke, why not combine it together to make it a This is what my children say whenever I cooked for them… delicious meal? I know all parents can relate to this. Whatever you prepare I will call it… Fried Chicken in Coca- Cola (FCCC). for them, They will always say, It’s the BEST… It is very simple and easy to cook. It takes approximately 15-20 mins of cooking. My kids enjoy it a lot! It maybe because we are putting the most important I hope you do too. The taste is like Chinese Cuisine, sweet and salty. ingredient into whatever food we are preparing for them… So, I am sharing the recipe to all of you. IT’S LOVE … and it’s the same love that will keep them healthy and happy all the time!!! Enjoy eating…. With lots Ingredients How to Cook of love…And Coke on the side… IT’s THE BEST!!! • ½ Kilo Chicken 1. Cut the chicken into 2 pieces. Put in Recipe by Kathy T, Qatar Wings a bowl and add soy sauce. Mix and marinate in a few minutes. Ingredients • 500 ml Coca – Cola • 100g butter Soft drink 2. While Chicken is set aside, Heat • 5 cloves garlic crushed cooking oil in a pan. Fry the chicken • 1 onion minced • 1 tbsp. Oyster Sauce wings until slightly brown. • pinch of salt and pepper to taste • ½ tbsp. Soy Sauce • 2 cans Tuna chunks in oil drained • ¼ cup Banana 3. Place Chicken pieces in a wok or • 1 can mushroom pieces pan. Add Coca – Cola Drink, Oyster • 1 can evaporated milk Ketchup Sauce, Garlic, Onion, Salt and • 1 pack all purpose cream • 1 medium red onion Pepper and Ketchup. • 1 pack cream of mushroom powder dissolved in 1 cup (minced) 4. Cook on medium heat. It will look water • 3 cloves garlic gross at the beginning. • 1 cup cheese • 500g Spaghetti noodles (minced) 5. The Liquid will evaporate eventually • 1/8 tsp. ground black and will form a glaze on the chicken. Easy Cooking Steps Cook until most of the liquid is gone. 1. Bring water into a boil and cooked the pasta noodles, pepper • ¼ tsp salt to taste 6. You can Serve and Garnish with drain and set aside. • Lettuce and sliced lettuce and sliced cucumber or 2. In a casserole, sauté garlic, onion, tuna, mushroom in Spring Onion (optional). cucumber or Spring butter and seasoned with salt and pepper. Onion for garnishing 3. Combine and pour the milk, all purpose cream, cream (optional) of mushroom and cheese. Cooked until creamy. 4. Combine cooked carbonara sauce and pasta noodles and top with more cheese. September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

ALL AROUND THE WORLD WITH KO! Sajji Palao Recipe by Kamran Qureshi Recipe by Mamiya P Sales Director, UAE Ajero QA Technician, Qatar Ingredients • Whole chicken 1 kg without skin. Wellness Pro Tip (especially during COVID-19) • Yogurt ¾ cup • Olive Oil ½ cup We start our morning with this powerful immunity booster drink, • Salt ½ teaspoon (can adjust as per own taste. made in quick easy steps • Pepper 1 teaspoon • Ginger garlic paste 1 teaspoon Golden Milk Also Known Turmeric Latte • All spices powder ½ teaspoon • Cumin ½ teaspoon Prep Time: 15 minutes, Serves: 2 Recipe by Mrs. Rauf Sheikh Ingredients Cooking Steps Marinate chicken with all spices and set aside for few • Milk: 1 ½ cup hours. Cook in a pan on medium low heat till its done. There should be little thick gravy left in it. • Turmeric: ½ tsp Ingredients • Ginger: 1 inch (skinless) • Rice 2.5 glass • Onion 1 Large • Honey: 2 tsp • Ginger garlic paste 1 teaspoon • Palao biryani masala (Shaan Co.) ½ pack • Water: ¾ cup • Ghee ½ cup • Water 3.5 glass Additional Ingredients (optional) Cooking Steps • Cinnamon: ¼ tsp or 1 inch Chop onions and fry them in ghee or oil of your choice till golden grown. Add ginger garlic paste. Add pulao • Cardamom: ¼ tsp or 2 pieces biryani masala. Add water till boils. Add rice and wait till bubbles come. Cover it and simmer for 10-15 min. • Clove: 4 pieces Dish out rice in a flat service dish. Top it with whole • Black Pepper: a pinch chicken with its gravy. Garnish it with some fried nuts and raisins. Enjoy your Sajji Palao. Note: Choose Milk: Cow Milk / Coconut Milk / Almond Milk / Soy Milk. Choose Sweetener: Honey / Brown Sugar / Jaggery / Maple Syrup Cool Sprite! The bright color of strawberry and Directions refreshing Sprite taste will bring in 1. Mix water, ginger + turmeric and bring to boil. Add optional the fun and cool you down during the hot summer months. ingredients if you wish. Lower the gas and simmer at medium heat for about 7 minutes. Ingredients 2. Add milk and bring to boil. Switch off the stove. Add honey. • 200ml of Sprite 3. Strain and pour into mugs and enjoy your daily immunity booster • 1 strawberry halved fix! • Ice if preferred Recipe by Zainab H. • Strawberry and mint leaves for Qatar Team HR Executive Bahrain garnish Enjoy this cooling Summer Drink with your family! September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

Heart-warming Life Stories Proud mother of three sons. Blessed to have my parents, to care and love, who are living in Gurgaon, India. Working for the best company in the world The Coca-Cola Company for over 22 years … Team Lead Helen Jacob HR Executive Bahrain India was put into a total lockdown within 4 hours to contain the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in millions of migrant workers with no option but to walk 1000 + kms back home to their villages. They were stranded with no food or water. Then I saw the residents of my parent’s housing society compound swing into action, cook meals at home and were on the road distributing the home cooked meals. In another heart-warming event, a couple with a young daughter, in Mumbai, India, cooked vegetarian meals and went on the road offering fresh hot meals to the policemen who were on duty – the policeman reluctant at first accepted the meals and honoured the couple at the police station with gratitude & even gave them credit in the newspapers. Humbling to see citizens reaching out to help the police force. These are some of the inspirational life stories that continues to teach and inspire me to reach out to colleagues and society in times of need. What also inspires me is in the unfortunate event of any human beings/ living lives, I see the generosity of our TCCBCB colleagues from the helper to senior staff showing the nobleness towards our Team. Will always remain a heart-warming memory. MY JOURNEY My Guru, Soman നന്ദി, Narinder Singh to “Mallu” Singh , who taught me Assistant Sales Manager Salalah (Oman) Malayam “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart” This was the reason, I learnt Malayalam മലയാളം (Official language of the State of Kerala, India). to win the hearts and minds in the marketplace for Coca-Cola. My journey with Middle Eastern Al Ahlia Beverages LLC (Coca-Cola Company), started in 1999, as a Salesman in Oman. I found that 95% of the country’s FMCG market was managed by Malayalees (“Mallu“) natives of Kerala. Interestingly Salalah is called “ Kerala of the Middle East”. My family enjoys the It was a challenge for me to learn the language as I am from Punjab, India but today I can happily say sudden fame & waiting that I am almost fluent in spoken Malayalam. I love to watch Malayalam movies, especially Mammootty’s who is a superstar of Malayalam cinema. It’s my dream to visit Kerala, which I plan to for a chance to visit accomplish on my next my visit to India. beautiful place Kerala It has been a rewarding journey - today, I am the Assistant Sales Manager Salalah (Oman). Recognized and Rewarded by The Coca-Cola Bottling Company.. Viral TV Shoot I used Resulted in 256K views, 1.3 K amazing with its Coca-Cola shares, 3.7 Likes, 1000 + calls marvellous editing name 15 from Oman & 10 + competitors powerful message times in the exclusive outlets were ready to TV Show join hands with Coke Food Donation Drive during the pandemic Covid-19 in Bahrain I always believe that “happiest people are not the ones who receive, but the ones who give” and my greatest happiness is helping those in need and giving back to our community. The turmoil caused by the COVID 19 pandemic is playing havoc in the lives of millions of people from all around the world. While we have been extremely fortunate at TCCBCB, there are companies & industries severely impacted by the crisis resorting to lay-offs or implementing salary cuts or no pay. Additionally, due to travel restrictions, expatriate workers were left without salary unable to support themselves living in labour camps. Rachelle Pastrana I reached out to my friends and colleagues with a plan to provide food aid to those in need. With everyone is Sales Executive helping the initiative that was planned to help 20 people soon grew into a campaign and with everyone’s generous contribution we delivered food parcels to 531 people. I am grateful to have such friends and Bahrain colleagues, who help without expecting anything in return. “SO, KEEP GIVING TEAM… without expecting anything in Return” September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

After the Flood – A real-Life Story Friendships in the Workplace Improves Performance Stanley Jacob Territory Sales In May 1886, Dr John S. Pemberton, a pharmacist in Atlanta, Manager Georgia created a secret syrup and served the world’s first Coastal & Coca-Cola at Jacobs’ Pharmacy and today’s daily servings Salalah of Coca-Cola beverages are estimated at 1.9 billion globally and is enjoyed. This one man’s idea shaped the lives of many A peaceful home right by the river & Nature This was our home… people around the world. John Pemberton started with one And we enjoy this every year for 15 days at the time of vacation. single idea, which developed into many new ideas for many men and women working/visiting Coca-Cola factories. SOCIETY • Remote area, located in a jungle…... • Now a day’s construction of a house is not the In recent years there has been technology advancement, but the ideas which are now formed alone seem to have an effect, solution, buying a flat is the best option. but the impact is not that huge to create improvement as we • Adjacent to Nature, nice place for retirement life would like. This causes slowdown in our performance and • No need of air condition and artificial lights hence it has become difficult for us to keep pace with ever changing world. DEVASTING FLOOD THAT CHANGED OUR LIVES We should look at ideas which are formed by group. As an Witnessed the very useful element of individual person working on the production lines, we might not nature – Water, being transformed into its be able to notice a problem or understand how to fix it. In such most furious form – the floods. When the instances, we start discussing with our colleagues, who are flood submerges the whole state, no working on the lines with us and we start producing solutions raindrop may feel responsible. Water was because through discussion we can find solutions, which we up to the first floor, the pain of seeing the could not think of previously. Therefore, it is very important to floods consuming everything that we once have a friendly relationship with all our colleagues because it is took pride in. . only through these relationships that we are able to grow our capabilities in our field of work and also create the change SOCIETY • Why construct a house when they are working necessary to improve plant operations efficiency which is under our control. abroad? • This is what happens when you love nature too My key learning, we should always treat our colleagues with respect and maintain a good relationship with them because much together we can increase our plant’s efficiency and improve • Life’s struggles will strengthen their faith. our performance. • Hard-earned money will never be lost. Mr. Abraham Thomas MISSON SERVICED VILLA Machine Operator Plant UAE Our focus was not on the flood and the damage caused due to it. Rather, our All of us have our focus was only on how to overcome this own light which issue. Converting our home to a new we use to spread lodging option for travelers who use online booking of properties. Contacted to spread an advertisement agency, finalized the happiness along name and an attractive photoshoot, the way. Happy famous news magazine coverage. Tagline - Thanal Villa a Place to call selling !!!! Your home. SOCIETY • Property damage Insurance reimbursed the loss. • Was it worth renovating the property? • This flood will happen only once in a lifetime, this is nature’s fury, accept and move forward. Challenges are our biggest Miriam B Rebeiro teachers. Customer Service Exec. UAE Nothing teaches us more in life than challenges September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

The Moment of Truth Anoop’s Parents It was a long time ago. If I re-collect it correctly, it should be That was a moment of truth for me. I felt a cold chill creep up year 2003. I was working with CEAT Tyres as a Territory my legs. For a brief second, I was frozen. What am I supposed Manager handling operation in Erode District and to do? My C&F agent Anand was standing next to me and he Thiruchengode, which lies in the western side of State of Tamil had clearly noticed the sudden change in my expression. I told Nadu in India. him what had happened. Without a thought he asked me to leave. But I could not. It was the guests I had invited. I am the It was a busy day. Mr. Kalyan Paul, Vice President – Sales & only one who knows them and can introduce them to my Marketing along with many other Senior Managers of the superiors. And my superiors had flown down from Mumbai just company were going to be in Thiruchengode for an event. for this. The VP, the Division Head, and the Sales Head for CEAT Tyres organizes a major Key Customer and Dealer Meet Tamil Nadu were all there waiting to be introduced to the once in a couple of years. More than 50 of the top key invitees once the formal session was over. I realized I did not customers and big dealers would gather in Thiruchengode. As have an alternative. On the other side was my mom. I could the Territory Manager, I was in charge of organizing the whole imagine how terrified she would have felt. For her, her husband event. Right from inviting all attendees, fixing venues, procuring was the world. I had to make a choice or rather I did not have mementos for the participants, arranging refreshments and of one, I suppose. I rested my trust in The Almighty and got on to course most importantly compering the whole show. the dais with my legs trembling. For the next couple of hours, I stood there, welcomed my guests, greeted my superiors, That day morning, I received an unexpected call from my thanked my customers and dealers. Following brief speeches mother. She asked me how I was and how the preparations by Kalyan Paul and the Sales Head, I invited everyone to enjoy were going. Maybe she realized how busy I was because she the refreshments. I took my leadership team to each of the Key disconnected the call quickly without talking much. I carried on customers and important dealers, introduced them and engaged with my work but somewhere in the corner of my mind I felt a bit in conversations, which I thought were meaningful. I was just uneasy. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but something was pronouncing words. That’s all. It was my father and my mother not right because it was unusual for my mother to call during all that I could think about. Three or four hours, the event was that time of the day. I had told her about the event a few days over. My managers were impressed and started felicitating me, ago and hence thought she had called to check on me. while my eyes searched for Anand. Anand, a wise person, and I Reassuring myself of that I slipped back into my busy schedule. shared a wavelength. He rushed towards me and said he would It was just half an hour into the event. Guests and Invitees have manage the rest and that I needed to leave quickly. My arrived. I welcomed each guest with the widest of smiles I could superiors were surprised and asked where I was leaving. It was put up, praying that all of them talked only good things about me Anand who did the explaining. My managers looked at me in to my superiors. Of course, I had only one objective: get a good shock or surprise, I don’t know to this day. Did they wonder feedback from Kalyan Paul. The man himself and how he had what kind of an irresponsible son I was. Or did they appreciate transformed BSA and Hercules cycles’ business in India was a me for handling the situation without letting my emotions take legend. over. They asked why I did not mention anything sooner and insisted that I left immediately. It was almost time and I had glanced through my welcome I have read and heard about “moments of truth”. And I got to speech and agenda one last time when my cell phone rang. It live mine there. Looking back at that incident, I have always was my mother again. My first instinct was to disconnect the wondered if I would have handled it differently. When I phone and return the call later after the event. But something apologized to my mother for my delay, her only reaction was persuaded me to answer the call. The uneasy feeling after her “duty first”. There may be many who approve of what I did and first call was still lingering in my mind. She asked me if the many who don’t. But that moment defined what I was. There event was over. For a moment I felt a rush of anger and I was have been times when I was myself surprised about how I about to say something which I would have regretted. I am handled that situation. But to this day I choose to believe that I eternally grateful to Almighty, for I did not. Something was not did the right thing. right. I asked her if she was alright. She said all was fine and My father survived that affliction; part of the reason, perhaps, asked me to give her a call as soon as the event was over. OK, why I believe I made the right decision. I pray such a moment of now that’s it. I cannot get on the dais with this disturbing thought truth does not present itself again in life. But if it does, will I in the back of my mind. So, I insisted her to tell me what was handle it with the same audacity. I dare not think… going on. She hesitated but eventually said in a trembling voice “dad is hospitalized. He had a heart attack. Can you please Anoop Kainari (AK) come home as quickly as possible”? My father had a history of Sales Manager, UAE Angina Pectoris. His doctor had warned us that he may not survive another one after the first. September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

Proud in defeat When the power of science for logic and sanctity of belief which is beyond logic worked together, decade long patience paid off in the desired form, my bundle of joy that too on the wedding anniversary day. Dreams with determination make impossible nothing. My momentary interest in watching Excel training videos actually sparked an interest in a bystander, my 7year old son to become a self-proclaimed Excel Expert eventually to achieve his dream to become the richest man in the world! In return, he offered me a new Saree when he gets there. That’s love and I’m waiting ! Team Lead The home PC is now with full of stunning Excel charts and I shamelessly borrow some from my little gadgets Guru! The challenge is to convince him that I can’t Suprabha Sathish guide him when his Visual Basic commands go wrong. He keeps nagging and feels pity for me but that makes me proud despite being defeated ! Planning Manager With Love… Prabha Al Ain – UAE FAMILY : WHERE LIFE BEGINS AND LOVE NEVER ENDS Sometimes I believe, the struggle of life is one of our greatest blessing. It makes us patient , sensitive and Godlike. It teaches us that all the world is full of suffering, but it is also full of overcoming of it. There is a time in every person’s life where the negativity completely eradicates the positivity, but what holds us back is and will always be FAMILY. The steady rock that helps me stay fearless, my comfort when I occasionally falter and my go-to place, that is family to me. Talking about my personal experience, there was a time when I didn’t know what decision to take but which I knew had to be taken immediately regarding my mom’s health. I had no other option but call my dad and talk to him. I called him and the only statement that he made was to BE BOLD AND FACE THE CHALLENGES. These words just filled me with so much energy and a belief that I could do it. I was alone but I made it. I still wonder what would’ve been the condition if I decided to sulk upon my mom’s health . That is what family is for, to show what you’re capable of and to mould you as a vigorous person. The Coca-Cola Company has brought in so much of light into our lives through their enormous support during our hard times. “ what consumes your mind, controls your life” With lots of love and wishes to our Coca-Cola family, Devitha Manoj Daughter of Manoj Nair, Chief Finance Officer GCCB, Bahrain Second Daughter, Daughter Mehek Zehra Shagufta Sheikh 10th Std CBSE Result – Achieved 90% topped the commerce Top position in the School. stream in Indian SOF – Science Olympiad Foundation, 1st School Al Ghubra with level SOF International Mathematics a 94.4% in CBSE 12th Olympiad participated and won the award. Board Examination All India Hindi Essay writing competition – Best performer • Mehdi Abbas #GCCBConnect Rauf Sheikh Business Support Manager (IT), Qatar HR Supervisor, Oman #VoiceOfGCCB September Edition

S. Benita Carmel, 7 Years Daughter of Sumithra Mary Management Accountant Qatar Abiel James Denny, 8 Years Andrei Elijah Real Son of Deny James, Accountant, Qatar “Tourist Guide” Son of Michael Kent Eid Celebration “Life is a delectable menu of Real flavours” Revenue Accountant HIYA BIYA 30th July Qatar Mohammed Jaffar Majid Al Abri, Rauf Sheikh, Accounts Supervisor Bahrain Administration & External Affairs HR Supervisor, Oman “Celebrating Eid in with his adorable children Manager, Oman 2020 was unlike any other Eid we have Celebrated on 3 August celebrated before. It On this day, sisters tie rakhi on was all about family, the wrists of their brothers to food and fun at the protect and pray for their long comfort of our home!” life and happiness. Little Vihaan’s birthday card to his Dad Rajesh Modi Technical & SC Director GCCB Manjunath Begur’s Children (Sales Training Manager, Bahrain) Prabodhan Desai’s children Nisar R Islam’s Raj Kumar & Family (Plant Supervisor, Bahrain) daughters Technical Director Services, UAE & Oman in Bangladesh, Gardner, Bahrain #GCCBConnect September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB

Email your Answers [email protected] Multiple Choice Question: Photo competition revolving 1GGB 1. Which one of these are not a benefit from a good night's Take a photo that best represents 1GCCB and sleep? describe why makes you say so. a. Improves Memory b. Helps the body fight infections (Sample: can be a group photo/working photo/ c. Reduces depression (Reduces risk of Depression) Selfie) d. Lowers blood pressure Let US know interest 2. How long did it take for the IT warriors to prepare a virtual tunnel to allow work from home? Is there something a. 48 hrs. else you’d like to see b. Less than 24 hrs. Photo cnoemxptettiitmione?reSvholavirneg 1wGiCtChB: c. Less than 48 hrs. us your stories to d. 29 hrs. inspire others! 3. Which individual engaged in activities that strengthen their Best Recipe with mind & body to improve their work-life balance? Coke! a. Mohammed Salami b. Lalaine Belano Competition c. Cris D Castro d. Fatima Ismali FromPthhe omatnoy rcecoipmes mpeenttiointeidoinn the “All revolving 1GCCB:Around the world with KO” corner, choose 4. Complete the Sentence: “Family:_________? a. Is place where we can be ourselves and prepare at least one recipe and it will be b. The support that is forever tasted by our famous culinary GCCB Master c. Where life begins and Love never ends Chef in each country. Winners will be d. Father and Mother, I love you identified country wise 5. This is a tool that utilizes a pattern of letters, ideas, or association to aid in memory? a. Harmonics b. Mnemonics c. Phonics d. Electronics 6. The “Trek of Ladakh” happens every _____? a. January b. December c. February d. November First 3 respondent will get a prize Send your Answers on or before 4 September September Edition #VoiceOfGCCB #GCCBConnect

#GCCBConnect GET FEATURED IN OUR NEXT EDITION December Enrich our lives with your amazing personal contributions and your valuable comments Email US [email protected]