Fashion And Lifestyle

Holly Aldhebaiei Crystals, Community & Creating a Holistic Sanctuary in Dubai By Jane Stevens In a city defined by speed, ambition, and futuristic skylines, Holly Aldhebaiei has created something rare, a sanctuary of calm where crystals, coffee, and community weave into a tapestry of soulful living. Holly Holistic, her brainchild, was born from a deeply personal journey that began not in the boardroom but in a moment of stillness with an Amethyst bracelet. For Holly, what began as an accessory quickly became a companion, a reminder of peace during a transitional chapter of her life. That spark of connection revealed that crystals are more than objects of beauty, they are vessels of energy, capable of guiding, grounding, and healing. From that realization, Holly Holistic began to take shape, transforming her passion into a movement. The journey has been one of alchemy, as Holly describes, from sourcing raw stones at trusted family-owned mines to opening the doors of a soulful café in Dubai where guests sip coffee surrounded by crystals. She calls this transformation the most magical part of her work, watching a dream become a living sanctuary where authenticity, energy, and community converge.  To her, crystals are not just aesthetic ornaments but quiet teachers, reminding her to breathe, pause, and realign. Through meditation, placement in her home, or simply holding them in moments of imbalance, she finds their vibrations amplify inner strength and clarity. This philosophy naturally extended into Holly Holistic itself, which she designed as a multi-dimensional experience blending retail, wellness, and hospitality. Visitors may walk in for a coffee, leave with a crystal, and in the process reconnect with themselves. Her inventive “Crystal Brews” concept elevates daily rituals into moments of intention, with each drink paired to a crystal’s energy, such as rose quartz for love or amethyst for calm, and accompanied by affirmations to nourish both body and soul. Dubai, with its relentless pace and futuristic edge, has proven to be the perfect backdrop for Holly Holistic, because it is here that people crave stillness the most. Holly believes her café and store offer that vital balance, a grounding oasis amid skyscrapers and speed, and she proudly calls it one of Dubai’s best hidden “gems.” Yet this path has not been without challenges. For Holly, the hardest moments came in learning to trust the process during uncertain times. Building a space rooted in authenticity meant moving with patience, resilience, and integrity. This lesson shaped her not only as an entrepreneur but as a human being, teaching her that growth is strongest when aligned with values. The impact of Holly Holistic is felt most vividly through its community. Holly recalls one customer who walked in drained and lost, only to later tell her that the space had become their safe haven during a difficult chapter. For Holly, that moment defined the purpose of her work, proving that beyond crystals, coffee, or aesthetics, Holly Holistic is about healing and belonging. She hopes that every guest leaves with the feeling that they are exactly where they need to be, lighter, more centered, joyful, and aware that magic exists within and around them. Looking ahead, Holly envisions Holly Holistic leaving a legacy not only in Dubai but across the global wellness movement. She wants it remembered not as just a shop or café but as a movement that made spirituality accessible, joyful, and soulful. Her dream is to inspire people everywhere to weave intention into daily life, to see wellness not as a luxury but as a way of living with love, light, and connection. Holly Aldhebaiei’s story is one of courage, intuition, and vision. By transforming her personal journey into a collective sanctuary, she has shown that wellness can be both grounding and glamorous, simple yet profound. Holly Holistic is more than a destination, it is a reminder that in even the busiest of cities, we can find stillness, and in even the smallest of rituals, we can rediscover the magic within ourselves.ual preferences. From artificial intelligence that acts as your intuitive travel companion to virtual explorations that allow you to wander through destinations before you book, the future of travel promises to be more exciting, more personal, and more responsible than ever before.

Ahmad Al Ketbi Preserving the Soul of Storytelling in a Digital Age By Jane Stevens In today’s fast-changing world of digital media, where content is consumed at lightning speed, Ahmad Al Ketbi stands as a voice of balance between tradition and innovation. For him, traditional Arabic storytelling and voice culture remain essential anchors of identity, treasures that offer depth, authenticity, and emotional resonance. While modern platforms may alter how stories are shared, the rhythm of narration and the weight of voice heritage are timeless, powerful tools that can still connect with audiences across generations. Al Ketbi believes that emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are not a threat but rather a vessel to amplify cultural heritage. From restoring old radio archives to translating dialects or even recreating the voices of historical figures, AI can make tradition accessible in ways that resonate with younger audiences. The challenge lies in ensuring that these tools do not dilute authenticity but instead amplify the richness of heritage. For him, the true impact of innovation depends on intention. If technology is used merely for speed and trends, cultural identity risks being eroded. But when guided by values, digital tools can serve as guardians of tradition, documenting endangered oral histories, creating immersive cultural experiences, and preserving what might otherwise be forgotten for future generations. Examples of this balance are already visible both locally and globally. In the UAE, heritage-driven radio shows have evolved into multi-platform experiences, blending traditional poetry and storytelling with social media reels enhanced by AI visuals. On a global scale, interactive museum exhibits allow visitors to hear recreated voices from centuries past, showing how modern technology can breathe new life into heritage. Having worked across both classic broadcasting and AI-driven content, Al Ketbi has learned that innovation must remain a frame, not the canvas. The soul of the content, its message and emotional depth, should always lead. Whether through a radio interview, a documentary, or an AI-generated reel, technology can enhance but should never overshadow. Authenticity, he emphasizes, builds trust and ensures the human essence endures. Looking ahead, Al Ketbi highlights the importance of engaging the next generation of media professionals.  He advocates for mentorship, collaborations with cultural institutions, and workshops that merge traditional storytelling with emerging tools. By experiencing heritage as something living and adaptable rather than static, young creators can naturally weave it into their work. His vision for the future of media in the UAE is both ambitious and inspiring: a landscape where cutting-edge AI studios coexist harmoniously with live majlis-style storytelling. In this balance, the UAE has the potential to lead globally, showcasing how tradition and innovation can not only coexist but enrich one another. Ahmad Al Ketbi’s perspective reminds us that while media will continue to evolve, the soul of storytelling must remain intact. It is this blend of authenticity and innovation that will ensure cultural heritage is not only preserved but also thrives in the digital age.

Amna Ali Salem Aladidi A Voice of Leadership, Poetry, and Humanity By Michelle Clark Amna Al Adidi’s journey is deeply rooted in the values of family, heritage, and service. Growing up in a close-knit household, she was shaped by the love and determination of her mother, who, despite not having a formal education, poured her heart into ensuring her children reached the highest levels of learning. From her father, who was raised under the vision and teachings of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Amna inherited wisdom, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. These foundations became the compass guiding her through life as both a leader and a poet. For Amna, politics and poetry are not opposing worlds but complementary realms. In politics, she is guided by justice and principle; in poetry, by compassion and humanity. She has always believed that words carry immense power, whether spoken under the dome of parliament or written in delicate verses. In both spaces, she seeks to be a voice for humanity, strong in conviction, yet tender in expression. Her love for poetry began early, when words became a refuge and a tool to express emotions she could not otherwise articulate. What started as simple verses grew over time into deeper reflections filled with symbolism and intellectual weight. Today, her poetry is not just a personal outlet but a bridge that connects her individual experiences to broader human and national concerns. Infused with Emirati identity, her poems carry the essence of sea, desert, and majlis traditions. Through them, she intertwines nostalgia, pride in the present, and hope for the future. While her poetry speaks from the heart, her academic background provides a strong intellectual framework for her political career. With a master’s degree in Strategic Oversight, Amna approaches governance with a methodical eye, ensuring long-term planning, effective policy evaluation, and social balance. This training equips her to merge theory with practice, helping shape decisions that reflect both the aspirations of the nation and the needs of its people. Within the Federal National Council, Amna’s passion is most evident in her advocacy for education, healthcare, and social development. She envisions an education system that nurtures creativity and critical thinking.  This healthcare structure prioritizes both physical and mental well-being, as well as social policies that strengthen families and empower vulnerable communities. For her, these pillars are inseparable, forming the very foundation of a sustainable and just society. As an Emirati woman, Amna draws inspiration from the UAE’s values of safety, peace, and cultural diversity. She lives each day with both freedom and responsibility, free to express herself and contribute, yet responsible for representing her nation’s values with dignity. This balance of openness and security has empowered her with confidence, influencing not only her public service but also her poetic voice. For Amna, literature and poetry are vital to preserving the soul of Emirati culture. They serve as mirrors of society, carriers of tradition, and bridges between generations. In a fast-changing world, she sees them as essential to ensuring that identity and heritage are not lost, but instead celebrated and passed forward with meaning. She also believes deeply in the ability of Emirati youth, especially women, to strike a remarkable balance between tradition and modernity. Grounded in their roots yet open to the future, they embody the harmony of progress without compromise. Her advice to the younger generation is simple yet profound: never place limits on yourself. She urges Emirati youth to embrace both intellect and heart, public service and creativity, responsibility and talent. For her, identity is not a rigid mold but a continuous journey, and every pursuit, whether in governance, art, or personal growth, adds depth to that journey. When asked how she wishes to be remembered, Amna resists the idea of a single title. She does not wish to be known only as a leader or a poet, but as someone who served her country with love and sincerity in every possible way. If there is one legacy she hopes to leave, it is that of an honest voice, a faithful vision, and a tireless dedication to her nation. Amna Al Adidi’s story is one of harmony between intellect and emotion, tradition and modernity, politics and poetry. She embodies the values of her heritage while looking forward with vision, offering both her words and her actions as contributions to the growth and spirit of the UAE.

Gen Marketing Where Yesterday Turns into History By Minahil Rasool Marketing has come a long way from the days of radio ads, billboards, and word-of-mouth, when its only purpose was to spread awareness about a product or service. Back then, a mix of colorful posters and persuasive storytelling, what we now call traditional marketing, was enough to leave a lasting impact. Whether through handmade posters or Instagram reels today, one truth remains unchanged: marketing has always revolved around connection.Traditional marketing began as simple, one-way communication, without algorithms or engagement metrics to worry about. Iconic campaigns like Nike’s “Just Do It”, L’Oréal’s “Because You’re Worth It”, and De Beers’ “A Diamond is Forever” made history not just because they sold products, but because they stood by the values they represented. Marketing evolved from being a surface-level tool into the science behind brand success. That science deepened with the rise of market research. Companies learned to decode consumer psychology and purchasing patterns, relying on data-driven campaigns to stand out. This shift gave consumers more freedom to research, critique, and choose brands transparently, pushing businesses toward more ethical practices. Marketing became a two-way street, where consumer voices could amplify or challenge a brand’s reputation. The saying “All PR is good PR” gained relevance, though it also revealed the risks of missteps. Volkswagen’s 2015 scandal, for example, showed how fabricating environmental claims could cost years of consumer trust. On the other hand, brands like Tesla, Spotify, Coca-Cola, and Huda Beauty have strengthened loyalty by openly addressing social issues, sustainability, and workers’ rights. The rise of social media transformed marketing into a global conversation. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok allowed messages to reach millions in seconds, at a fraction of the traditional cost. From influencer partnerships to user-generated content, social media gave brands a stage to amplify their presence and create unique identities. But with opportunity came pressure, brands must constantly deliver fresh, engaging content to maintain their audience’s attention. Competition became endless, with every post, view, like, share, and even watch time being measured, analyzed, and monetized. These insights allow marketers to understand audiences deeply and build lasting connections. The evolution of marketing has also created entire industries of opportunity. Careers in graphic design, filmmaking, content creation, data analysis, and brand management have flourished, making marketing one of the most lucrative and dynamic fields today. Success is no longer measured by revenue alone but by the attention a brand captures and the perception it creates in the minds of its audience. In this sense, attention has become the new currency. For businesses, marketing strategy now sits at the heart of planning and execution, requiring careful investment of time, people, and resources. Every campaign is not just about a product, it is about forecasting consumer behavior, anticipating needs, and shaping future loyalty. Looking ahead, the rise of artificial intelligence and big data promises to transform marketing even further. Predictive analytics and hyper-personalized strategies will allow brands to connect with audiences on an emotional level like never before. Yet, one principle remains vital: businesses should not blindly chase trends but instead align their strategies with what truly reflects their identity and values. Only then will they resonate authentically with their target audience.

Latifa Algurg Crafting Stories, Building Purpose By Afef Yousfi Latifa AlGurg is not your typical fashion consultant. She is a business coach, a founder, a globe-trotter, and a curious mind who believes that success is a journey, not a destination. Her brand, Twisted Roots, is a reflection of that philosophy,  a celebration of culture, creativity, and the interwoven experiences that define our lives. What immediately stands out about Latifa is how effortlessly she combines analytical thinking with artistic exploration, blending the precision of engineering with the freedom of design. “I approach life holistically,  balancing structure with creativity, analytics with imagination.” For Latifa, life is best approached holistically. Balancing structure with creativity is at the core of everything she does. Her engineering background taught her to tackle challenges methodically, while her love for design fuels innovation.  In her consulting work, this means guiding emerging brands to merge operational efficiency with creative storytelling. In the social impact space, it translates to deeply listening and understanding the needs of communities to design solutions that are meaningful and sustainable. Travel has been a constant source of inspiration for Latifa. Each journey exposes her to new cultures, perspectives, and experiences, which she channels into her work. Twisted Roots was born from this curiosity,  an attempt to express the rich tapestry of life she encounters across the globe. “We live lives that are layered and connected by human experiences that create roots that ground us and intertwine.” Her work is as much about storytelling and cultural dialogue as it is about design, blending personal experience with universal human themes. Latifa’s approach to mentoring emerging designers is equally thoughtful. Many new creators focus narrowly on products, but she encourages them to step back and define their purpose. Creativity, for Latifa, is a narrative journey. She draws inspiration from architecture, art, music, landscapes, and cultural ceremonies, allowing these elements to guide her design choices. Each collection evolves organically, telling its own story as colors, forms, and textures emerge. The brands that succeed, she observes, are those with resilience, adaptability, and a grounded sense of identity. Clear purpose, operational strength, and authenticity are what make them memorable. Two pivotal moments have defined her career. First was winning the Expo 2020 Dubai Volunteer Uniform Competition, which shifted her perspective from personal recognition to creating broader, lasting impact. The second came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when a slowdown in business allowed her to reflect and realize that her contribution would be most meaningful in supporting emerging designers and amplifying their growth. “Success is not producing more, but creating ripple effects that empower others.” Looking ahead, Latifa envisions Twisted Roots evolving as a platform for cultural storytelling, empowerment, and social impact. Through consulting, she hopes to guide the next generation of designers in the Middle East to achieve their visions while sharing their stories with the world. “Fashion is never just about what we wear, but the ideas, values, and experiences we carry with us.” Meeting Latifa, it becomes clear that her vision extends far beyond fashion. She reminds us that curiosity, purpose, and authenticity can create meaningful impact, and that the most powerful successes are those that touch others. Through her journey, she exemplifies how passion, guided by strategy and empathy, can transform not only businesses but the world around us.

Ksenia Lapsiuk Dream. Create. Inspire Fashion Illustrator & Live Event Artist By Michelle Clark In the vibrant world of fashion and art, there are artists who don’t just capture beauty , they translate it into timeless experiences. One such artist is Ksenia Lapsiuk, a Ukrainian-born fashion illustrator and live event artist, now based in Dubai. With a Master’s degree in Fashion Art and Design from Kyiv National University of Technology and Design, Ksenia has dedicated her life to revealing beauty in its most elegant forms. Her collaborations with luxury houses such as Fendi, Bvlgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chopard, and Graff have positioned her at the crossroads of fashion, art, and human connection. For Ksenia, beauty and art are not just professions but values that guide her life. Every collaboration immerses her in a brand’s unique identity, inspiring her to refine her artistic language while staying true to her own vision. These projects are more than commissions, they are opportunities to celebrate elegance and transform fleeting moments into meaningful artistic expressions. Her passion shines most brightly during live fashion sketching, where she captures people in the moment with precision, speed, and a touch of her own perfectionism. Balancing detail and timing, she brings sketches to life before guests’ eyes, often leaving them moved and deeply touched. Some moments stay with her forever,  like the joy of a guest who, upon seeing her portrait, exclaimed, “This is really me! You made my day!” or the warmth of another who still sends her holiday greetings years later. For Ksenia, such reactions are priceless reminders of why she creates: to connect, to inspire, and to celebrate beauty with others. Her guiding philosophy is summed up in three simple but powerful words: Dream. Create. Inspire.  To dream means believing that nothing is impossible and finding beauty everywhere. To create is to bring those dreams into reality with soul, passion, and emotion. And to inspire is to share that beauty and wonder with others. These principles are not just her artistic motto but also the lens through which she experiences life. Though she works with both digital and handmade techniques, Ksenia remains captivated by the tactile nature of traditional illustration. She believes that in an era of AI and rapid digital innovation, the human touch,  with all its spontaneity, imperfections, and authenticity, will only grow more precious. Every hand-drawn piece, in her view, carries a soul that no machine can replicate. Preparation is another cornerstone of her work. Each event requires immersion into a brand’s story, from studying its colors and materials to understanding its emotional essence. By aligning her vision with the brand’s identity, she creates experiences that feel both seamless and unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on every guest. If given the chance to sketch anyone in history, Ksenia would choose Coco Chanel, a woman whose courage and vision revolutionized fashion and continues to inspire generations. Chanel’s story, like Ksenia’s, is a reminder that true artistry comes from daring to dream, embracing joy in creation, and inspiring others through beauty. Beyond her work, Ksenia draws inspiration from fashion, photography, art, and travel experiences that shape not only her creative expression but also the way she lives and sees the world. Every detail, every fleeting moment becomes a spark of inspiration, fueling her mission to share beauty wherever she goes. At the heart of her journey lies a simple truth: art is not only about what is created but about the emotions it awakens. Through her live sketches, collaborations, and illustrations, Ksenia Lapsiuk continues to turn moments into memories, reminding us that beauty is everywhere waiting to be noticed, celebrated, and shared.

Exclusive Interview with Tetiana Skoryna From Sharjah’s industrial beginnings to Dubai’s digital spotlight, Tetiana Skoryna shares her journey of resilience, creativity, and living the true ‘Dubai dream. By Hafsa Qadeer There are some stories that define resilience, courage, and the pursuit of passion and Tetiana Skoryna’s journey is one of them. From humble beginnings in Sharjah’s industrial area to becoming a widely recognized content creator in Dubai, Tetiana embodies what she calls the “Dubai dream.” Her life is a powerful example of how hard work, adaptability, and creativity can transform not just a career, but an entire identity. When Tetiana first arrived in Dubai, her reality was far from glamorous. She worked in a small car-parts shop in Sharjah, putting in long, challenging hours. From there, she moved into hospitality as a waiter and later found herself in the fitness industry as a trainer. Each step brought new lessons and a growing determination to push further. Together with her sister, she reached an important milestone by opening their own gym, a proud achievement for their family. Yet, deep within, Tetiana knew her journey wasn’t complete. Driven by her passion for creativity and storytelling, she took a leap of faith, shifting her focus to content creation full-time. Today, she shares her life, her experiences, and her love for Dubai with millions of people online. For Tetiana, this transformation is proof of the Dubai dream, where perseverance and belief can take you from “zero to hero.” Over more than a decade in the UAE, the city has shaped not only Tetiana’s career but also her character. Living in Dubai’s multicultural environment has taught her openness, adaptability, and respect for people from every corner of the world. She explains that this diversity has made her content more universal designed to connect with audiences across cultures, languages, and traditions. By creating content that reflects the shared human experience, Tetiana has not only become a better creator but also a more empathetic person. For Tetiana, everyday details of life in Dubai hold powerful meaning. Observing how people respect shared spaces, follow etiquette on the metro, and value harmony in public life has deeply influenced her. She incorporates these lessons into her videos, not as rules, but as reflections of respect and consideration. This mindful approach helps newcomers appreciate the city’s lifestyle, while also showcasing the unique spirit that makes Dubai stand apart. Her content highlights the richness of diversity not through polished brochures, but through real, everyday experiences. Whether it’s an Emirati family sharing food during Ramadan, a casual market interaction, or strangers from multiple countries bonding on the metro, Tetiana brings forward the beauty of these unscripted moments. Diversity in Dubai, she believes, is not something you just see, it’s something you live daily. This cultural blend has reshaped her storytelling approach. In creating content, she constantly considers whether people from Europe, Asia, or the Middle East can relate to it. That awareness makes her narratives universal, helping her connect authentically with audiences across the globe. Tetiana also sees her role as more than just an entertainer. She believes influencers can serve as cultural bridges, offering real glimpses of everyday life beyond stereotypes. The greatest reward for her is hearing from followers who say her videos gave them the confidence to move to Dubai, because through her content, they already feel at home. Looking ahead, Tetiana is inspired by the way the UAE is blending tradition with innovation. She admires how Emirati heritage is preserved while also evolving to resonate with younger generations in fields such as fashion, food, and architecture. For her, this balance between honoring roots and embracing the future is what makes Dubai so extraordinary, and it’s a narrative she is passionate about sharing with the world. Tetiana Skoryna’s story is not simply about personal success, it’s about growth, gratitude, and connection. From her first job in a small shop to inspiring millions through digital storytelling, her path reflects the possibilities that Dubai offers to dreamers who dare to work hard. In every video, every story, and every message she shares, Tetiana captures the essence of the city: a place where diversity thrives, respect shapes daily life, and ambition finds its wings. In her own words, “living the Dubai dream” means more than building a career, it means growing into the best version of yourself, while inviting the world to share in that journey.