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March 2017 MARVELLOUS IDEAS FOR

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othing has the power to change the world like the unconditional love of a mother. Indeed, ‘mother’, or its equivalents, is the most beautiful word in any language. It evokes a spectrum of emotions and ‘I love everything a gamut of feelings in the heart of even the most about water’ Nruthless individual. She is always willing to forgive and accept her Omani sailing star Fahad children with arms wide open, no matter how much they have Al Hasni has always had a gone wrong and hurt her. However, we hardly stop to think of how passion for sailing and the sea. Society caught up with they feel and whether they need help. In a sense, we neglect them Fahad to find out more by not appreciating them enough. about his career and his team’s latest sailing tour P.18 Mother’s Day is just around the corner and it’s that special day that gives you the perfect opportunity to shower your mom with your love and affection. Tell your mother how much she means to you and pamper her with generous gifts. It doesn’t need to be an expensive stuff. You can make her day special with beautiful quotes, poems, and loving words. Let her know how special her What’s in a soap? love for you is, and acknowledge all the pain and sacrifice she took While we are willing to spend to raise you to become the way you are today. Thank her for her good money on shampoos, unconditional love, for forgiving you when you did something anti-ageing creams and skin lightening serums, we do not wrong, and held you when the world around condemned you. consider soaps and cleansers Thank her for being at your side when you needed her the most. to be an important part of our beauty ritual Remember how she stayed awake at night to care for you when P.40 you were unwell.

Mother’s Day is not celebrated in the same way or even on the same day across different countries. In Qatar, it falls on March 21 and people all over the country make the most of the day by gifting flowers, cards, jewellery, or giving a holiday surprise to their moms. So what will you do this time to honour your mother? If you’re looking for something special, don’t miss our Mother’s Day Tea Party ideas on P.22. Read on and find out some simple tips to make this Mother’s Day unforgettable. Moving on to this month’s gourmet piece on P. 52, Carolyn Robb, former personal chef to TRH Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, shares her favourite recipes that are sure to impress your mom. From stunning cakes to delicious desserts, we’ve got all the recipes you need to give your mom a marvellous Mother’s Day. The secret of carb cycling Want to know what carb cycling is, how it works, and if it can help Happy reading! you lose weight faster than traditional dieting? Read on and find out. P.44 Amjad Vanimal Editor [email protected]

Director- Marketing Contributing Writers Editorial Enquiries FREE COPY James John Dr. Sunaina Hameed Tel: +974 44466413 Editor [email protected] Amjad Vanimal Adina- Laura Achim Homayra Billah JUST FOR Features Editor Advertising Enquiries Dr. Sudip N. Stephanie Hughes Tel: +974 44466620 Fax: +974 44418811 MOM Copy Editors Sondra Hope Email: [email protected] Rajith R Rekha Sarma Shemna Bijith Mary Jayaweera Printed & Published by Steve Joseph Maggie McKenzie Gulf Publishing & Printing Co. W.L.L. Advertising Thajilah Olaiya Marketing team Website : www.society.qa Mhairi Murphy Circulation Manager Jamilah Al-Harake Adel Hammam Karen Domingos March 2017 MARVELLOUS IDEAS FOR

THE SECRET OF CARB CYCLING THE RISE OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISES INCREDIBLE ICELAND • MARCH 2017 57 • MARCH • ISSUE Design & Layout Jiji Yohannan Society Available at

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"The promotion of our company to HP Platinum Partner is recognition of our eorts to provide customers with reliable and genuine HP Supplies. We have always stressed and educated our customers on the importance of using genuine supplies as it always helps in the long term to reduce your Printer service cost and in turn helps in reducing your overall budget. We are absolutely delighted that our eorts are being recognized by HP and we would like to thank all our customers, without whose support and faith this would not have been possible". T.C JOSE, Managing Director. CONTENTS MARCH 2017

TOP GEAR

The latest version of BMW’s flagship 5 Series sedan offers the same good looks as the 60 bulkier 7 Series but serves them up in a smaller IN LIFE package with a smaller price tag to match While we are willing to spend good money on shampoos, anti-ageing creams and skin lightening serums, we do not consider soaps and cleansers to be an important part of our beauty ritual.

40 44 NUTRITION The secret of carb cycling

HEALTHCARE

While challenges remain in providing best care for GOURMET 34 autistic people, early intervention is proving to have From stunning cakes to delicious more positive outcomes desserts, we’ve got all the recipes 52 you need to give your mom a marvellous Mother’s Day

FREQUENT FLAIR FOCUS

Photo of the issue Art & architecture Exploring what makes a company the most inspiring to its customers P.37

Biju CG Doha

CANDID Healthcare CAPTURE

‘I captured this candid moment during the Fifth Ooredoo Marathon held in While challenges remain in providing best care for autistic people, early intervention is Doha recently’ proving to have more positive outcomes P.34 In life While we are willing to spend good money on shampoos, anti-ageing creams and skin lightening serums, we do not consider soaps and cleansers to be an important part of our beauty ritual. P.40

PHOTO OF THE ISSUE Your cam. Your shot Submit a favourite photo you’ve clicked on any topic of your Society choice for possible publicationwww.society.qa in an upcoming 13issue of Society. Send your photos to : [email protected] Nutrition Next >> Captured by Biju CG P.12 The secret of carb cycling P.44

Style P.46 Outlook Honouring Mothers P.29 Trends P.50 Gourmet From stunning cakes to delicious desserts, we’ve got all the recipes you need to give your mom a marvellous Mother’s Day P.52 Top gear The latest version of BMW’s flagship 5 Series sedan offers the same good looks as the bulkier 7 Series but serves them up in a smaller package with a smaller price tag to match P.60 Travel From awe-inspiring glaciers to geothermal springs and active volcanoes, Iceland is a place where nature always takes center stage P.57

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CONTENTS MARCH 2017

COVER STORY

SPOTLIGHT Looking for a new way to celebrate Mother’s Day this year? Read on and 22 Maggie McKenzie find out some simple ideas to make this challenges her hoarding Mother’s Day unforgettable. instincts by archiving her family history

14 26 COVER STORY Taking just a little time to relax and be alone throughout your week can actually help you let go of that stress and keep you on top of the PARENTING madness.

A mother’s deep parental kindness in bringing us up 32 and the hardships she has gone through will never be repaid as they are priceless. SPOTLIGHT Omani sailing star Fahad Al Hasni has always had a passion for sailing and the sea. Society 18 caught up with Fahad to find out more about his career and his team’s latest sailing tour FOCUS

Spotlight

The Family Archivist : Maggie McKenzie challenges her hoarding instincts by archiving her family history P.14

‘I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT WATER’: Omani sailing star Fahad Al Hasni has always had a passion for sailing and the sea. Society caught up with Fahad to find out more about his career and his team’s latest sailing tour P.18

Cover Stories A Mother’s Day tea party: Looking for a new way to celebrate Mother’s Day this year? Read on and find out some simple ideas to make this Mother’s Day unforgettable. P.22

Mommy Me Time: Taking just a little time to relax and be alone throughout your week can actually help you let go of that stress and keep you on top of the madness. P.26 Scan the QR Code with your smart- ‘The day I became a mother’: Lisa Harper, a Qatar-based Australian mother, shares her memories of being phone or log on to www.society.qa a mom - a moment when her pride of being a mother swelled to almost bursting. P.30

Parenting Read Society Magazine Online A mother’s deep parental kindness in bringing us up and the hardships she has gone through will never be repaid as they are priceless. P.32 Follow us on : www.facebook.com/SocietyMagazine www.twitter.com/Society_Mag

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AL KHOR اﻟﺨﻮر TO QUALITY YOU M A L L

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INDUSTRIAL AREA اﻟﺼﻨﺎﻋﻴﺔ

AIRPORT ROAD اﻟﻤﻄﺎر اﻟﻘﺪﻳﻢ

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QATAR INDIA U A E KUWAIT K S A HONGKONG CHINA OMAN MALAYSIA THAILAND USA PHOTO OF THE ISSUE Society Biju CG Doha

CANDID CAPTURE

‘I captured this candid moment during the Fifth Ooredoo Marathon held in Doha recently’

Your cam. Your shot Submit a favourite photo you’ve clicked on any topic of your choice for possible publicationwww.society.qa in an upcoming 13issue of Society. Send your photos to : [email protected] FOCUS spotlight

The Family Archivist 14 Society s far as New Year resolutions go, one of my annual favourites is Ato resolve to go paperless and to reduce my environmental footprint. However, as with most resolutions (set in stone on the 1st of January) my resolve to read online magazines, not to print bank statements, and to reduce the piles of family letters, birthday cards and children’s artworks all fall foul to the curse of the resolutions fairy by Easter.

As expats, however, keeping our family archives (photos, videos, bank statements, drawings, birthday cards to you and me) in check is even more important than it would be if you lived in the same house, in the same village, in the same country for the next 50 years. For expats, it’s a fact of life that in the near, or even distant future, we will all be tasked with shipping our accumulated possessions to our next expat location, or back to our home country where let’s face it, space is at a premium.

So what should you keep? What should you archive? And what should you throw away? These are important questions in a quest for paperless living but with hoarding firmly embedded in my DNA these questions need to be answered carefully! Very carefully in fact, for as mothers, we are often the custodians of our family archives and we hold in our power the ability to archive a memory forever or destroy a child’s favourite picture in a moment of paperless madness. Here are my top tips for becoming (almost) paperless before next year’s resolutions start in earnest again.

What are family 1 archives? This is very subjective and dependent upon each family. In short, family archives are effectively materials that tell your family’s story through photos, videos, cards, children’s artwork, family letters and assorted memorabilia. These elements hold different sentimental value to each family and this determines Maggie McKenzie if you keep them, archive them, archive challenges her hoarding then discard or simply discard. instincts by archiving her While less sentimental, family archives also include bank statements, insurance family history documents, tax returns, birth and mar-

www.society.qa 15 Top Scanning Tips riage certificates, residency information gy for many of us these are new concepts. Name your scanned and a multitude of other ‘legal’ documen- The use of cloud storage technology such files as you go along. tation. Some of these obviously must be as Dropbox, or many other cloud storage Most scanned file kept in a safe and secure location with sites available, enables you to scan paper- names are a series of scanned copies being used for reference work and upload photos and videos to a numbers and letters rather than archiving, but before you secure location accessible via your smart and without proper discard any of this paperwork, check with phone, iPad or laptop … and depending naming the files will your home country regulations. All coun- how brave you are, you can throw away again be difficult tries have different requirements to retain the originals reducing space and avoiding to find, or search original documents so take specialist future quality and deterioration issues. electronically. advice on this matter. Easy! Check the resolution. Low resolution Why should you Getting started scanning is fine 2consider archiving? 3– get organised for some general For me, three things: space, condition and If you accept the challenge to archive items (like 1986 technology. Space is a top issue. Over your family history also accept it will bus tickets) and for my 30 years of parenting I accumulated take time, effort and working space. First sharing documents thousands of pieces of paper – literally! gather all the different materials into one electronically but a Physical storage space was becoming an place. At this stage, don’t dwell or get precious letter or old issue and perhaps more importantly I side-tracked on individual items, you’ll family photos may couldn’t find anything when I needed it. have the opportunity to review them in benefit from high more detail later, for now just think about resolution scanning.

Secondly, unless you actively consider putting together individual collections of DVDs, hard drives have a shelf life; finally the items, and the conditions they are related things. Have boxes ready for pho- I share all our archives with my husband stored in, you may find that their condi- tos and negatives, videos and a third for who loads them on our family cloud tion has deteriorated considerably. Old paperwork. Be realistic about the amount account. Overkill perhaps but remember photos are prone to fading due to their of time and space this will take as you sift the hoarding DNA issue I mentioned chemical composition and remember, through everything. earlier. old tape film used in Betamax videos, so popular 20 years ago to record the most Part of getting organised is to determine Photos – a moment in precious of memories, are more fragile how you will store the items once they 4time than today’s DVDs and much more vul- are ready for archiving. I prefer a three A recent study by the Association of Brit- nerable to accidental damage and Doha’s phase approach: cloud storage – easy to ish Insurers noted that in a home fire, the humidity! access, free or low cost, I see cloud storage second most popular item people would as one of my primary storage methods; save (after family and pets obviously) was Thirdly, technology. While it seems mil- hard drive – easy to use, low cost and it their photos. Coming from a pre-digital lennials were born with an intuitive un- enables me to view my archives without era I understand this statistic. Pre-digital derstanding of iPads and cloud technolo- internet access – however remember like photos were taken with a roll of film,

16 Society printed over a week by pharmacies and returned in packs of 24 or 36 along with the film negatives – then kept in a box. The solution – I took all my negatives to a local Doha photographic studio and they scanned all my negatives onto DVD. For those photos I didn’t have negatives for like old-school photos or photos inherited from relatives – I scanned them at the highest resolution and added them to my cloud folder. While I haven’t yet thrown out, or passed on, the physical envelopes of printed photos – the time will come Paperwork – my bête or even old bank and utility statements. and I can be assured that if my boat sinks noire I won’t sugar-coat it - it took some time to 6 scan 30 years of paper memorabilia but moving my life’s possessions to my next I love paper – I always have and I suspect expat destination at least my photos are I always will - but enough was enough once scanned I shredded the originals safely stored in a virtual cloud! when I found a stash of used, faded 1986 and yes, saved everything to Dropbox! bus tickets to unmemorable destinations. Ready, steady, Utilising my project management skills I Today’s artwork is action set about categorising all my paper junk 7 tomorrows archive! 5 and started to scan. As Mother’s Day approaches our children During my most recent declutter fest will lovingly pass us beautiful hand-made I came upon a drawer filled with old, Scanning, and the art of digital archiving, works of art made at school or nursery is an amazing guilt-free method of quickly celebrating this wonderful day of the digitising paper memories by creating an year. Nothing evokes more memories of exact copy of the item that can be shared a time and place than children’s artworks. easily and stored in multiple locations While my scanner has undoubtedly been and the original discarded - well maybe. my saviour in my battle against paper, It’s highly addictive! my only real struggle was with children’s artwork. How do you scan macaroni Luckily we have a scanner that can ac- embedded calendars? The answer is commodate several pages at a time – par- you don’t … you photograph them. This ticularly useful for those pages of recipes technique also works well for oversized torn from magazines over two decades paperwork, pages from scrap books and items too large for a scanner. Top tips for photographing Turning digital children’s art 8archives into new • Select an area with lots of treasures natural light, not direct sun One of the most exciting things about but soft lighting. digital archiving is the opportunities it creates to develop new treasures from • Choose a sheet of white old memories. Online entrepreneurs foam board, a white sheet have recognised this trend and you can or a simple wooden floor to now use children’s artwork to create make a plain background. e-books, 3D soft characters, keychain, unlabelled videos and Betamax tapes, • Place the artwork on the this was another situation where I almost poster, pillow or quilts. New memories in foam board and stand right the making. felt defeated. But help was no further above it –taking the shot than a Google search away in the form of straight down. another professional photography store Each family has their own set of precious • Get your children to help documents but whether it’s an inky foot- that blended old technology to retrieve print of your baby at six hours old or a gro- my celluloid memories with modern by taking their artwork to cery list written by your great-grandmoth- technology and convert everything to the ‘photography studio’ er, it’s worth considering now how you DVD. Specialist photographic studios and get them to share them can preserve and pass on these memo- are familiar with multiple types of video with family and friends. ries to the next generation. Technology is tapes, storage disks and cassette tapes • Take some test shots. If there to help more than ever so although so take expert advice on retrieving lost you are using an automatic it’s still early in the year, start considering data from these mediums. Again, a little camera, make sure the flash if you might add going paperless to your investment is involved but peace of mind is off; natural light should next New Year resolutions is priceless. be enough. • Keep shooting using the same position until you www.society.qa 17 have finished! FOCUS spotlight

‘I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT WATER’ Omani sailing star Fahad Al Hasni has always had a passion for sailing and the sea. Society caught up with Fahad to find out more about his career and his team’s latest sailing tour 18 Society Q Tell us more about yourself and how did you get involved in competitive sailing?

A It all started when I was working as a sailor in the tourism industry. I got to know about Oman Sail through an advertisement in a newspaper then I decided to try my luck and I applied. It wasn’t easy at the beginning because I had to compete with around 1000 applicants and I had to prove myself mentally and physically. I would say, what got me involved in sailing was my passion to inspire Omani youths who are enthusias- tic to become sailors.

Q The SATT route this year was a challenging one, what kind of mental preparations did you take to make sure you are ready for this kind of route?

A I worked out in the gym every morning and tried to keep it a daily routine. Physical exercises apparently help me in staying focused and en- hance my mental state. In long races, we need to stay mentally strong and to be able to be on that level of concentration and patience we should prepare well ahead.

Q Considering your experience in sailing, how do you see the future of the sport in GCC?

A I am very optimistic about sailing in the region. There is a lot of work going on and the goals are very ambitious. We have set the standards high and are doing the smart thing by merging our old relationship with the sea – considering our geographic location – with the support of international sailing experts. Our youths are very passionate and I can see it in the eyes of Omani sailors and how they dream in reaching high levels of competitions, the Olympics for example.

Fahad Al Hasni

www.society.qa 19 Sailing Arabia - The Tour

Sailing Arabia – The Tour was launched by Oman Sail in 2011 as a regional off-shore race that provides a platform for all the GCC nations to showcase their tourism potential as well as a tool to rekindle the mutual Gulf maritime heritage by offering a winter racing venue. The race not only exposes the beauty of the stunning Arabian coast, but also reconnects the region with the sea through sport. It was originally created as an alternative Middle Eastern event to the well- known Tour de France à la Voile, and since inception, it has attracted some of the world’s best sailing talent, and made Oman and the GCC a sought- after winter venue in the international sailing calendar. Alongside this mission is the integral objective of promoting sailing as an accessible, healthy and economically beneficial sport to local people and enterprises. With some of the finest facilities in the region being showcased, and the use of the Farr 30 One Design class as the platform for the race, Sailing Arabia – The Tour will plant the seed of sailing firmly in the imagination of a new generation of local young people.

Q How would you rate your team Renaissance’s efforts this year in SATT?

A It all depends on experience and energy. We have a patient and mentally strong crew, we have all that it takes to compete with the European crews until the end. We started the race well-prepared and will continue to do so.

Q What is one thing you are

I’m very optimistic most proud of in your sailing about sailing in the region. There is a lot career? of work going on and the goals are very ambitious. A I have been in many competitions on international level and this has given me valuable experiences. I am now able to sail alone and I will start competing in one-man crew races.

Q What other talents do you have outside of sailing?

Fahad Al Hasni A I love everything about water. My hobbies include diving, swimming and fishing

20 Society Everyone has something to say and everyone is important. Are you getting the right medium to share your stories? Be part of our #mylifeinQatar campaign.!

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www.society.qa 21 FOCUS cover story A

Looking for a new way to celebrate Mother’s Day this year? Read on and find out some ideas to make Mother’s Day a magical celebration tea party By Deborah Way

others and daughters can celebrate in style with easy crafts, tasty treats and hilarious games that keep the conversation and Mlaughter flowing.

PARTY DECORATIONS Spring Garland

This festive tissue paper bunting adds some springtime colour to your party. To speed up the paper cutting, first make a half-oval template (our ovals are about seven inches wide) from a piece of stiff paper or cardboard. Next, stack four or five sheets of tissue paper in various colours and fold the stack in half lengthwise.

Starting at one end of the tissue paper, lay the flat edge of the template along the fold and trace it with a pencil. Fit as many half-ovals along the fold as you can, then cut them out. To make the bunting, open a tissue paper oval and apply glue stick in the center crease and around the edges. Lay one end of a long length of ribbon into the crease. Fold the oval over it and smooth the paper closed. Add more ovals, spaced an inch or two apart, until you reach the desired length.

22 Society Napkin Cuffs Soft and colourful, these napkin rings can be whipped up in minutes. For each, use pinking shears to cut a roughly 2- by 4-inch fabric rectangle. Wrap the fabric around a napkin and secure the overlap- ping ends with a flower-headed brad

PARTY CRAFTS High-Tea Hat These wrapping paper hats are always a perfect fit: they’re made right on your guests’ heads!

To make a hat, press and smooth two (30-inch) squares of wrapping paper, unprinted sides together, over the crown of a partygoer’s head. Have her hold the paper in place while you wrap coloured tape once or twice – not too tightly – around the widest part of her head. Remove the hat and trim the brim so it’s about five inches wide. Fold up about a half-inch of the brim and secure it with invisible tape to form a hem. If desired, fold up and tape a section of the brim at the front.

A Flower For Your Cap Add some floral flair to your new hat with a tissue paper bloom. For each flower, cut out several circles of tissue paper in two different sizes and colours and stack them. Cut a 1-inch circle out of card stock and use a craft knife or wooden skewer to poke two small holes near the center. Poke a 3-inch length of pipe cleaner through the center of the tissue paper circles and through one hole in the card stock circle. Thread a pony bead onto the pipe cleaner, then bend and push the end through the second hole in the card stock and back through the paper stack. Twist the ends of the pipe cleaner together. Crinkle the tissue paper petals, then tape the flower to your hat by its stem.

www.society.qa 23 Folded Fans A fan is as apropos at a tea party as white gloves and raised pinkies. Our version is a breeze to make.

Widthwise, accordion-fold a 6- by 12-inch piece of paper. Each fold should be about one inch wide. Fold the accordion strip in half to mark the center, and staple it at the crease. Glue a craft stick on either side of the staple, as shown at right. Join the top edges of the accordion with invisible tape to form a semicircle. Bring the craft sticks together, sandwiching the paper between them, and secure them with an elastic band. When the glue is dry, open the fan into a circle and wrap the elastic band around the handles.

GAMES Two Truths, One Lie while other players are trying to crack This get-to-know-you game is a fantastic you up. To get started, one person curls She Loves It, She Loves It Not way to learn more about your loved ones. her lips tightly over her teeth, turns to A bouquet of flowers can do more than Guests take turns sharing three things the person to her right, and says, “Excuse brighten a room: used in this activity, they about themselves, two of which are true, me, is Mrs. Mumbles home?” The person can spark some intriguing conversations. and one of which is a lie. (For example: “I must reply, in the same tooth-hiding One player holds a daisy (or another rode an elephant when I was four; I once manner, with, “I don’t know, let me ask my flower with lots of petals) and plucks off met Regis Philbin; and I can touch my toe neighbour ...” She then turns to the person one petal as she names something that to my forehead.”) Everyone else in the to her right and asks, “Excuse me, is Mrs. her mother or daughter loves. The next group votes on which one they think is Mumbles home?” The question and the player shares something her mother or the lie, then the player reveals the truth. answer are passed around the table, as daughter loves – not. The flower contin- everyone tries hard not to giggle. If you ues around the table, with mothers talk- Mrs. Mumbles show your pearly whites, you’re out of the ing about their mothers and daughters, To win this game, you need to be able to game. and daughters talking about their moms, talk without showing your teeth. That until the flower runs out of petals. means no laughing – or even smiling –

24 Society RECIPES Working with one piece of cake • Spread wheat bread with 3at a time, spoon on the icing honey-walnut cream Pastel Petits Fours to cover it completely, then add cheese (made by combin- Dainty and sophisticated, these cakes sprinkles, coloured sugar, or a candy ing 1 package of softened are a real showstopper. And since they’re flower before the icing sets. Let the cream cheese with \ cup made from store-bought pound cake, cakes stand, uncovered, until the of chopped walnuts and they’re surprisingly easy to prepare. You icing is dry, about 30 minutes. Store 2 tablespoons of honey). can decorate the tops with sprinkles, them in an airtight container for up Top with sliced pears and a coloured sugar, or candy flowers. to three days. Makes about 30 cakes. second slice of bread. SOURCE: Adapted from “Pink Prin- • Cover white bread with her- Ingredients: cess Tea Parties” by Barbara Beery bed cream cheese, tomato 1 (16-ounce) pound cake (Gibbs Smith, $14.99). slices and minced black 9 cups powdered sugar olives. Light corn syrup Tea Sandwiches • Top thin slices of baguette 1 cup Water Any sandwich can be a tea sand- with Nutella and sliced 1 teaspoon vanilla extract wich, as long as it’s sliced into neat, bananas. 1 teaspoon almond extract nearly bite-size pieces. For extra fan- • Fill mini pita breads with Liquid food colouring ciness, use a cookie cutter to punch hummus and slices of out shapes from your sandwich cucumber and tomato. Decorations, such as sprinkles, bread. • Sandwich sliced turkey coloured sugar, and candy flowers and provolone between Though you can use almost any two pieces of wheat bread Cut the entire cake into 1-inch-thick sandwich recipe for a tea sandwich, spread with basil pesto 1slices. Then use 1-inch-wide cookie here are some of our favorites to get cutters or a knife to cut round, square, and you started: diamond shapes from each slice. Place the cake pieces on a wire rack set on a waxed paper–lined cookie sheet.

In a large saucepan over medium 2heat, mix together the powdered sugar, corn syrup, cup water, and vanilla and almond extracts until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. As the icing cools, it may start to stiffen; if so, stir in a spoonful of water to keep the icing smooth and flowing. Divide the icing equally between two or three small bowls. Stir food colouring, a drop at a time, into each bowl until the icing is the desired shade.

www.society.qa 25 FOCUS cover story Mommy Me Time Taking just a little time to relax and be alone throughout your week can actually help you let go of that stress and keep you on top of the madness. Here are a few ways to help you carve out a little time for yourself By Sondra Hope

ur communities are shaped by the health of our Sondra Hope nation’s mothers and babies. But sometimes it can is a Qatar-based international certified fitness and health coach, specialising in personal, sports Obe a challenge to take the steps we need every day and child nutrition. She is the founder of HopeFit, to stay healthy. Somewhere between the morning rush, a which specialises in online and personal training and nutrition coaching. In her spare time, she packed day at work, and all of the practices and homework also does motivational speaking, spends time with her other passion, Pixal8 Photography, as — we need to remember to eat well, stay active, and help our a professional photographer, and dabbles in families stay healthy, too. painting and fine art.

26 Society Forget about having it all — many women one else that they aren’t taking care of themselves, says psychiatrist and TODAY these days are doing it all. Raising kids, themselves. contributor Dr. Gail Saltz. “There is some working, caring for elderly parents, run- maternal ideal of being self-sacrificing ning a household, and often managing Even for those women who have a that just isn’t consistent with having time alone as a single mom. That is the ex- spouse to share responsibilities, doing it for yourself,” she said. The key, says Saltz, hausting “doing it all” reality for hundreds all is hard. Experts say it’s no surprise that is for women to recognize the difference of women. With all of their “doing,” there’s women forget – or even disregard – the between being selfish in a bad way and one thing women agree isn’t happening: need to take care of themselves. Women being selfish in a healthy way. They are so busy taking care of every- often feel guilty about taking time for

www.society.qa 27 “You have to put on your oxygen mask Practice mindfulness to attain a standard of perfection, first,” she says. “If you go to pieces, every- 4“Mindfulness is “paying attention to which doesn’t exist.” But remember one is going down with you. So you have the present moment on purpose, that “taking good care of your baby to give time to yourself. That is healthy, without judgment,” Sanford said. and yourself every day is enough.” not selfish or narcissistic. That is a tough And you can do this with any activ- concept for a lot of women.” ity, at any time. For instance, when Build an empathy team Saltz acknowledges that free time is a washing the dishes, don’t think about 7 “Who are the people you can call to scarcity for many women, but adds that your to-do list. “Just pay attention to complain, who can hear how hard even as little as 15 to 30 minutes a day to the sensory experience” of doing it is, without trying to fix it, deny decompress will help. But you have to the dishes. When playing with your it, or smooth it over?” Eder said. actually make it important and make it a child, focus on the experience of Parenting is tough. It’s important to habit. And you have to know yourself and being with them,” she said. have several people you can turn to. know what works for you. For some, that (Remember that talking about how might be exercise. Others may find a men- Sanford also suggests her clients try exhausting and frustrating parenting tal boost from meditation, or listening to this breathing exercise once in the can be doesn’t mean you don’t love music, or taking a bubble bath. morning and once during the day, your kids or life). along with this body scan as they lie So how can you make time for yourself down to sleep. One client, who had This is especially important for while caring for young kids? Here are a baby in October, sets her morning parents of kids with a chronic illness eight tips to try. alarm for five minutes earlier to or developmental concerns. Her chil- practice the breathing exercise. dren have severe allergic conditions, Practice self-care in so she understands first-hand the 1 intervals Fast-forward persistent worry and challenges of For instance, take 15 minutes for 5 “It also helps to focus on the future. managing a chronic condition. yourself, twice a day, said Sanford, This creates internal space when co-author of the book Life Will you really can’t get away,” Eder said. She suggested looking for others Never Be the Same: The Real Mom’s For instance, she suggested consid- with the same condition in your area Postpartum Survival Guide. “Don’t ering: What will your life be like in and setting up play dates. Or find do the laundry, make dinner or read six months? What changes will you online support on Facebook or other your email.” Instead, take that time to embrace? What will you wish you social media sites. This way “you close your eyes and breathe, read a focused more on when your kids can connect with similar folks when magazine or take a shower, she said. were younger? What won’t matter? winter or illness prevent your kids from playing with their peers.” Ask for –imperfect – Explore future career goals or new 2help ways to redesign your space, said Ignore the naysayers “Sometimes self-care means accept- Eder, who calls this “intentional day- 8 “Some people might disapprove ing imperfect help from someone dreaming,” which takes into account of you taking time out for yourself. you trust, who might feed them junk your strengths and interests. Remember that others’ objections food, or let them watch too much TV, are more about the discomfort with- or simply do things differently than “Feel free to alternate between now in themselves than your actions”, you do,” Eder said. and the future as much as it feels Sanford said. Instead, “listen to your helpful, without giving yourself a inner wisdom,” and tune into your Say ‘yes’ hard time for needing a break from own feelings. Does an activity feel 3 “Just like it’s self-nurturing to say “no” today.” nourishing to you? Do you feel to things that don’t serve you, it’s also recharged? self-nurturing to say “yes” to requests Temper your that can provide a positive distraction 6expectations The next time you feel guilty or selfish for practicing self-care, remind your- from the daily grind of parenting,” Eder “Another part of self-care is having self that “you matter too, and denying said. Offer to proofread your friend’s realistic expectations. For instance, your own needs for a prolonged peri- resume, give someone a ride or make a moms may agonize about buying od does not serve anyone,” Eder said. meal for a family who needs it. the right crib, stroller or toy and As Sanford noted, “self-care isn’t selfish, creating the optimal environment it’s “self-preserving.” “This is creating a deliberate distrac- for their child in order to “raise a so- tion to connect you with other peo- cial, emotional and cognitive giant,” ple and remind you of the good you Sanford said. do in the world outside your home.” Plus, it helps you reconnect with the They question their every move other parts of yourself, she said. and “drive themselves crazy trying

28 Society outlook

FREQUENT Honouring outlook Mothers Jamilah Al-Harake By Jamilah Al-Harake An American-Lebanese from the United States, Jamilah has spent close to a decade living in the Middle East. She he world celebrates Mother’s Day at different times throughout the year. In the Middle East, currently lives in Qatar with including Qatar, Mother’s Day is recognized on March 21st, coinciding with the beginning of the her husband, is working for TSpring Equinox. That means living as an expat in Qatar often gives many families the opportunity the Center for Conflict and to celebrate Mother’s Day on more than one occasion. It’s undoubtedly recognized as an admirable Humanitarian Studies at the Doha Institute for Graduate and celebratory day to raise awareness about a mother’s special role: providing immeasurable and Studies. She has a Masters overwhelming love. in International Affairs, is an avid writer and traveller, and The idea of celebrating Mother’s Day, ‘Eid il Um’, within the region originated in the 1950’s in Egypt. has two rescue cats and one A famous Egyptian journalist and columnist had received several letters from mothers feeling dog. She hopes to one day start her own non-profit for unappreciated, undervalued, and continuously faced with challenges as the caretaker of their families. children and use this column He was inspired by their letters to propose a fixed day for all mothers, as reminder of their favours, with to inspire positivity to the Islam encouraging individuals to care for the mother of the family. The idea was later expanded and community. accepted throughout other Arab countries. Culturally, there will often be television specials to mark the occasion, and in the past there have been many beautiful songs written about Mother’s Day by very famous Arab singers to highlight the value of the holiday.

I wholeheartedly believe that caring for our mothers should be continuous all year round. Don’t get lost in the sea of commercialization, but remember the importance behind dedicating one day to recognize the enormous strength of mothers, everywhere. After all, mommas don’t get sick days or weekends off. What’s the solution to that? I’m sure remembering to write a thank you note, buy her favourite flowers, helping out around the house, or buying a nice gift from her favourite store, is probably a fair enough start. When becoming a mother, life drastically undertakes a selfless direction, where for the first time you really don’t get to make your own choices anymore. Everything you do in your life instantly and directly affects the life of another. I argue to all the critics of the holidays out there, that this is a well-deserved accomplishment to warrant a day of honouring all women who give birth to the universes’ creations.

Being a mother is also very much a part of nature’s unique feminine power. It’s a lifetime commitment, symbolizing openness, purity and good feelings. At the deepest level and greatest capacity, mothers know how to love fully and openly, and become our role models for understanding, patience, compassion, and wisdom. They encourage, help, and teach us, and provide nurturing love, tenderness and joy. At some point in each of our lives, we cannot rely on anyone except our mothers to help us grow. Personally, my mother taught me to fight for everything I believe in, all while she simultaneously believed in me. As a result, I’m not afraid to stand up for my beliefs, I live true to myself, stand strong in my convictions, and I’m a better person because of it.

Most of us will be far away from our own mums during this time of year. It is still a great opportunity to gather up your girlfriends who are mothers, have a beautiful brunch, and tell them they are doing a fantastic job. There will be plenty of opportunities in Qatar to spend the day honouring mum, but paying homage to the wonderful person who carried you into the world shouldn’t be an expensive or difficult task. As a child, I’d always ask momma what I can do to help more. Following the advice of my mother, sometimes the best gift for mothers is remembering to consistently say, thank you. Kind words can mean so much than we realize. On any other day we all often get busy and forget, but please remember to wish a happiest of Mother’s Day to all the mothers of the world. We are so grateful and thankful for all that you do

www.society.qa 29 FOCUS cover story

‘The day I became a mother’ Lisa Harper, a Qatar-based Australian mother, shares her memories of being a mom – a moment when her pride of being a mother swelled to almost bursting

30 Society Lisa Harper with her family Image: Chelsea Parsons

Our little being grew and grew – it felt like I of realization of the responsibility on my was aglow, with every flutter, then wiggle, heart and our minds that this little life is then movement, kick and hiccup the dependent on us for many years to come! awareness my life was changing so much from then to the moment she was born. Here with motherhood is a new and Along with a changing physique, I could wondrous love, different to anything as feel my love for this little bean becoming a couple we have ever felt before, the joy more and more intense. No one really in our hearts is connected to hers, our tells you how it really feels with a life children dance, we dance (on the inside), mother’ growing inside you, or how it really feels she hurts, (we feel it too), we have the de- when you hold your baby for the first sire to catch them when they fall but alas he moment I saw the double blue time, the profound love and joy is beyond have to step back and let them learn the lines, my heart skipped with joy words and so is the awareness that she is lessons of life, feeling helpless if we can’t Tas my journey as a Mom began in so fragile, dependent on you and...... that help fix things and feeling immense joy that understanding of being positively she could break! as we watch our little creations grow and pregnant. develop with gentle confidence into the My big strong manly husband’s heart sof- wonderful people they are meant to be. Sharing the news with my husband was tened and melted with his first sight and Best of all our children are a gift, we were sheer joy, then excitement, followed by hold of her, so tiny and he so BIG. I look at given and I feel incredibly blessed to have anticipation. them with wander imagining what she been given both of my precious girls will look like she grows up and feel pangs

www.society.qa 31 FOCUS parenting Dear Mamma, Don’t sweat it… You got this!

ear Mammas, we all have a secret fear. And it’s not A mother’s deep about being in our pyjamas when dropping our parental kindness in Dkids off to nursery or school (though that may be a close second). We worry about being good enough for our bringing us up and children… It’s an age-old insecurity that so many of us bear the hardships she despite being amazing mammas to our babies. has gone through So here’s to you, the mammas who are severely sleep Homayra Billah will never be repaid deprived…who pretend to smile as people walk by, but crave Originally from Austral- ia, Homayra Billah is the as they are priceless the warmth of their beds for just an hour of down time; just founder and managing enough to keep going for the rest of the day partner of Kanga’s To the mammas who are losing their patience because Pouch Nursery in Qatar. By Homayra Billah A teacher and busy mum of two, she is passionate about providing positive nurturing envi- ronments for children to grow and develop. She began her Qatari adventure in 2008 having taught in Australia for 5 years. Since being in Doha, Homayra has taught at nursery level for 18 months and a well-known British school for almost 4 years before establish- ing Kanga’s Pouch.

32 Society home feels like a battlefield of screaming, And the mammas who are trying to jug- When your back aches and your head whining and fighting children who are gle work and kids together; whose heart hurts and you’re desperate to lay down in a constant race to be at each other’s breaks every time she is forced to miss and get some rest… when the exhaustion throats… her child’s sports days, award ceremonies and the frustration is too much to bear... and music recitals. When the support seems slim and the And the mammas whose favourite seat is Shout out to the mammas trying to find world feels like it’s caving in. the toilet, hiding behind a locked door for those 15 extra minutes to help with home- a moment’s peace with tears rolling down work and extra practice just so her babies STOP. Here’s a few things to remember. their cheeks and children banging on the feel happy and confident at school. Look at your children and remember that door. And to the mammas trying desperately they have come this far because of your to put those old jeans on because all she selflessness and love. They have over- Here’s to the mammas who hide in their really wants is to look in the mirror and come illness and emotional downfalls be- wardrobes and store rooms eating that feel good about herself. cause of your commitment and devotion. last gummy bear or blueberry cheese- Here’s to the mammas worrying about They have felt comfort in knowing that no cake hoping that they won’t be asked to money and how to give her children matter how tired or upset mamma may share - just this once. what they need. be, there’s always mamma’s warm arms for And the mammas whose nutritious meal comfort. Or the mammas who sit in their car, alone, didn’t work out so she had to feed them munching down the quarter pounder instant noodles instead. Through all the exhaustion, the frustra- with cheese and fries in secret because Here’s to those mammas whose laundry tion, the tears… you’ve got this… and you they don’t want anyone else to see or has found a permanent home on the always will. know them eat that stuff. sofa and the dishes are done bi-weekly instead of daily. When those young eyes look up at you – Here’s to the mammas crying at night And to the mammas who sit and cry in they think you are perfect. They think you after yelling at her children for their car feeling guilty after dropping their are beautiful and inspiring. When those something small and insignificant babies off to nursery. hands reach out to hold you – they think so is now feeling guilty and To the mammas who hide in front you are the strongest. In their eyes, you unworthy. of her man because of the stretch can conquer the world. When you feed marks and the scars from child those little mouths – they know that you birth, hoping that he doesn’t find care that their tummies are full. When you her unattractive. reach out and hold your babies know that And to the mammas who can’t they don’t want anything more. They just physically leave the house want you. Because you are enough. You because life is just too much to are more than enough, mamma. handle right now. When your headaches have turned No fancy house, no expensive car, no into migraines and your ears begin to toy or any other material possession can ache, just know that they don’t mean replace you and your love. Our children to annoy you. Your children appreciate don’t see our wealth. They don’t see our your patience. designer handbags and they don’t judge whether we choose a Big Mac or a greek salad. They choose us, only us.

Here’s to the mammas doing it with an amazing husband or partner. Here’s to the mammas who are doing it all alone… working, raising amazing children, cooking and cleaning a home and even studying… here’s to you.

Don’t sweat the small stuff… you’ve got this… you’ve always had it… and despite what you may think, the world knows and more importantly, your children know that no one can do it better than you. Happy Mother’s Day

www.society.qa 33 FLAIR healthcare

Understanding autism

34 Society The degree to which an individual is afflict- While challenges ed by autism can range from “Classic Autism” to “High Functioning.” This range is referred remain in to by researchers and medical practitioners providing best as the Autism Spectrum and the range of disorders in it are categorized as Autism Spec- care for autistic trum Disorders (ASD). Classic Autism is the people, early most severe form of the disorder; where the child makes no verbal communication and intervention is does not reciprocate social interactions. On proving to have the High Functioning end of the spectrum, more positive the end of the spectrum formerly known as Asperger Syndrome, are those with average outcomes or above average intelligence, and might not suffer from general learning challenges By Dr Fouad Alshaban common to many of the ASD’s. However, it is observed that they do exhibit difficulties in socializing with others. Dr Fouad Alshaban Graduated from Baghdad Until now, no definitive cause for autism College of Medicine, and utism rates are rising and have seen became involved in the field has been confirmed. The rapidly increasing of preventive medicine. a tenfold increase over the past 30 prevalence of this disorder is considered to He obtained his Ph.D. in Ayears. It is estimated that autism be multifactorial with genetic and environ- preventive medicine in the affects one in every 68 newborn children mental causes seen as the main contribut- United Kingdom. He held (according to Center for Disease Control, many different positions ing factors. as a scientist working in USA estimates), while World Health Organ- academic research and ization set the prevalence rate to be one in On the genetic side, scientists have identified as assistant professor in Occupational Medicine every 100 newborn children throughout over 500 individual human genes that can and Public Health. He the world today. Understanding autism is contribute to the development of autism. was also a Planner and more crucial than ever in raising awareness An individual having one of those genes Advisor in different medical of the many factors that contribute to the will only have up-to a one percent chance institutions, including the development of this disorder, especially to Iraqi Ministry of Health. of developing autism, as each gene only Prior to joining the Shafallah those starting a family. While autism has no accounts for a single percentage. Usually, in- Medical Genetics Center cure, early diagnosis with early intervention dividuals with autism have different groups in 2009, he was Research Program Manager & Senior and intensive rehabilitation will improve of gene compositions that contribute to the Research Coordinator in the the condition and offer affected children development of the disorder in a unique Washington Hospital Center better social and communication skills. This way that might mitigate some symptoms in association with Johns enables the family to effectively deal with while exacerbating others and that is why Hopkins University Hospital. challenges faced in raising an autistic child He was head of Research of autism usually has many other comorbidi- the Department of Research with the care and attention they require, ties. For instance, 30% suffer from epilepsy; and Training at the Shafallah and deserve. Research is being done across 50-70% exhibit some degree of intellectual Medical Genetics Center where he was involved in public and private primary schools in Qatar disability. Other comorbidities with varying setting up research policies by the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute degrees of severity include attention-deficit and regulations as well as (QBRI), part of the Hamad Bin Khalifa Uni- disorder, hyperactivity disorder, immune the establishment of the versity, to find the prevalence rate of autism deficiencies, gastro-intestinal dysfunction, Institutional Review Board. in Qatar and compare it with the global Currently, Dr. Alshaban sleep disturbance, sensory sensitivities, and works as a Senior Scientist prevalence rate social anxiety amongst others. at QBRI Neurological Disorder Research Center. Dr. Alshaban published Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder As for environmental causes, studies have that affects children before they reach their three books in the field of shown that exposure of pregnant women to Public Health, Infectious third birthday. In most cases, symptoms certain chemicals, air pollution, household Diseases and Nutrition and appear after the first year of life and are insecticides, certain pharmaceuticals such has many published articles in medical & non-medical characterized by impairments in commu- - as Depakin, which is used to treat epilep magazines and journals. nication, social interaction, and restricted, sy, and some viral infections (i.e. German repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests measles) might play a role in the causation or activities. Parents of children diagnosed of the disorder. It is important here to note with autism have a 15-20% risk of having that there are no established links between another offspring with the same disorder. the MMR vaccine and the onset of autism,

www.society.qa 35 which coincides with the 18-20 month treatments. One is occupational thera- chotic medications. These medications booster dose. py, where children are taught dressing, can decrease hyperactivity, reduce eating, bathing, and relating to other stereotyped behaviors, and minimize Parents should take the first step in initi- people. Another is sensory integration withdrawal or aggression. Stimulants ating the autism diagnostic process with therapy; here children are taught how to have also been found to increase focus the family physician if they notice their cope with sensory sensitivities involving and decrease hyperactivity in some. child exhibiting certain characteristics. sights, sounds, smells, and touch. Speech Anti-anxiety and anti-convulsants can In social settings, for instance, causes therapy involves improving the commu- help reduce panic attacks and treat those for concern would include the child not nication skills for those children with the suffering from seizures. maintaining eye-contact, never smiling, ability to verbalize. For children unable to preferring to play alone, and not interest- talk, the Picture Exchange Communica- Those seeking treatment for their loved ed in other children in a playgroup. Com- tion System treatment teaches communi- ones affected by ASD have the following munication concerns would include the cation using symbols and gestures. main options in Qatar. They can choose child frequently not responding to their to avail the facilities and services at the name, unable to verbalize exactly what Parents of Rumailah Hospital of the Hamad Medical they need, appearing unable to hear, and Corporation or the Shafallah Center for not engaging in common gestures like children Children with Disabilities, or Renad Acad- pointing or waving. Behavioral concerns diagnosed with emy in Education City or other private with the child, like frequent tantrums, centers such as the Child Development hyperactivity, inability or destructive way autism have a Center and Tamakun school, which are of playing with toys, repetitive action, 15-20 per cent specialized in offering intervention ser- movement, oversensitivity to sounds or risk of having vices for children with autism and other textures, and an unusual attachment to special needs. common objects would also merit further another offspring investigation by a physician for ASD. with the same In Qatar, QBRI’s Neurodegenerative Dis- ease Research Center (NDRC) is leading Once brought in for diagnosis, medical disorder an ambitious research project in collabo- practitioners have two main diagnostic Some dietary treatment approaches have ration with the Cleveland Clinic and the tools to determine if the child has autism been developed by reliable therapists. Oregon Health & Science University, fund- and can use one, or both, methods to Dietary treatments are based on the idea ed by a Qatar National Research Fund, reach their conclusion. The first is known that food allergies, or lack of vitamins and which has the goal of finding the actual as the Autism Diagnostic Interview minerals, cause the flaring of symptoms. prevalence rate of autism in the coun- (ADIR), where the parents are asked 93 Many parents feel that dietary changes try. A screening tool, called the Social questions on the development of their make a difference in how their child acts Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), is child and answers are recorded. Results or feels. But many of these treatments do being administered in public and private of the ADIR are then tabulated using an not have the scientific support needed schools in Qatar to children between the algorithm, and those above the cut-off for widespread recommendation. An un- ages of five to twelve. The SCQ is a series are diagnosed with autism. The second proven dietary regimen might help one of 40 yes or no questions, the students tool is the Autism Diagnostic Observation child but not another. The Gluten-free/Ca- who score above the cut-off point are Schedule (ADOSE), where a medical sein-free diet is the most popular choice then called in for a follow-up where they professional interacts with the child and among parents with autistic children. are put through ADIR or ADOSE tests to observes how they respond across a Such changes include removing certain confirm or reject a positive diagnosis for variety of settings and situations. Based types of foods from a child’s diet and ASD. on how the child reacts to the schedule using vitamin or mineral supplements of activities, a diagnosis is given to the instead. Also, NDRC is pioneering a cutting-edge parents. research program to validate a new Although not scientifically proven to alle- technique in diagnosing ASD through the After diagnosis, while there is no cure, viate symptoms of autism, some parents use of an eye tracking system which will the available treatment options that claim complementary and alternative enable healthcare givers to diagnose ASD can provide relief from the symptoms medicine like hyperbaric oxygen, Mela- as early as six months of age. Meanwhile, of the disorder can be grouped into the tonin supplements for sleep disorders, NDRC geneticists are working on the following categories; behavior/communi- Omega 3, and other nutritional supple- identification of novel genetic causes cation approaches, dietary approaches, ments have given them positive results. for autism aiming at the discovery of medication, and complementary/alterna- new genes causing this disorder among tive medicine. Medication based treatment for autism the Qatari population. Initial efforts will symptoms should only be done in close involve whole genome sequencing of The behavior and communication consultation with a medical professional. selected families in order to identify caus- approach includes the following types of It can include psychoactive or anti-psy- ative genetic changes

36 Society Exploring The Rise what makes a FLAIR art & company the architecture of Social most inspiring to its customers Enterprises By Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes

“If we want to know what a business is, we have to start with its purpose. And the purpose must lie outside the business itself. In fact, it must lie in society, since a business enterprise is an organ of society” – P. Drucker.

very day, we are confronted with some over and above any benefit either to the busi- 5.000 messages from brands and com- ness itself or the workforce. Contrasted to this is Epanies. Almost 400 of those are adver- the social enterprise where ‘labour hires capital’ tisements. Only 3% of those messages have any with the emphasis on personal, environmental form of impression on us. The rest disappears and social benefit.” in a sea of some 120.000 thoughts, 95% of which are not even conscious thoughts. This means Since then, definitions vary and if anything, so- that getting attention for your products as a cial enterprises are being more and more widely Stephanie Akkaoui Hughes is an architect, entrepreneur company is a very difficult task nowadays. And interpreted. In any case, social enterprises in- and worldwide speaker, yet, social enterprises, even the youngest ones spire us. And when you offer inspiration, you re- based in Amsterdam. After developing her vision on are proving particularly successful. They don’t ceive attention in return. A study made by Dutch architecture and social development, called ask for attention, yet they are getting it. They company Synergie_ has shown that what all Architecting Interaction, don’t sell themselves and yet they are being successful social enterprises have in common Stephanie founded AKKA Architects. Driven by bought. What is the secret to their success? Why is one core message: they offer a perspective Architecting Interaction, are social enterprises especially inspiring to us for a better world, a better future. And they do AKKA is dedicated to create spaces that foster interactions, as customers? Why are we, now more than ever, that on two complementary levels: they tackle such as collaboration, learning, creativity and receptive to them? Why are we likely to buy the big questions and yet work with very small innovation. Previously, their products even before they are produced? steps towards a very tangible solution. And most Stephanie worked at OMA, where she run three projects What makes us prone to invest in their projects? importantly, they involve their customers in in Education City, including their ambitions. Qatar’s National Library and Qatar Foundation In 1978, the term ‘social enterprises’ was first Headquarters. used by Freer Spreckley in a publication called Synergie’s yearly study of the most inspiring Social Audit – A management Tool for Co-opera- organisations has shown that the 40 most in- tive Working published by Beechwood college, spiring organisations of 2016 are dominated by UK. Spreckley used the term to describe a range social enterprises, in fact the top 3 are all social of socially and democratically owned and run enterprises. Social enterprises offer a vision, a cooperations that introduced a ‘Social Audit’ as new perspective and a real possibility for a new a tool to measure their non-commercial activ- reality. They offer alternative answers to ques- ities along the financial audit tool to measure tions about energy, the environment and social their commercial activities. Spreckley defines issues. They offer a perspective about the future. social enterprises as “An enterprise that is Not a large and abstract perspective but a con- owned by those who work in it and/or reside in crete, close and relatable one. They show that it a given locality, is governed by registered social is possible to improve things and that a solution as well as commercial aims and objectives and is within reach. They offer a future vision but run co-operatively may be termed a social en- also an action plan. They are both aspirational terprise. Traditionally, ‘capital hires labour’ with and operational, which appeals to both sides of the overriding emphasis on making a ‘profit’ our human nature

www.society.qa 37 The secret of social enterprises is an artful balance between being aspirational and operational Design: AKKA Architects

In Synergie’s study, the top 3 most inspiring stories with - not about - their products d’être in improving the world and people’s organisations of 2016 are Tony’s Chocolo- and 4. they focus on connections with lives. They see no competitors, but possi- nely, Tesla and Dopper. Tony’s Chocolonely their clients rather than client loyalty. ble partners. is an Amsterdam-based company aiming Here’s what we can learn from social for 100% slave-free chocolate. Tesla is a enterprises: Use innovation as a tool, company founded in 2003 in Silicon Valley not a goal aiming to accelerate the world’s transition Offer a future vision, For inspiring organisations, innovation to sustainable energy. Dopper’s mission is to a new perspective is a means, not an end in itself. A simple eradicate plastic waste and give every- A striking feature of the top three most solution to a global problem in itself one access to safe drinking water. These inspiring organisations in 2016 is that they requires new answers, so innovation is social enterprises tackle very large global focus on large, global issues. Whether simply needed as a tool to get to a solu- challenges and yet they bring the solution it is a slavery-free chocolate industry, tion. Innovation is not the goal for these down to a very concrete and tangible accessible electric driving or plastic-free organisations, in fact the organisation product. Plastic-free oceans come down to oceans: the ambitions are high. However, itself is not a goal either, it is vehicle to a water bottle, eradicating slavery comes the solutions are close, tangible, concrete. make the solutions reality; it is a vehicle to down to a chocolate bar and the world’s With a chocolate bar, a car or a bottle, create a better future. So, in comparison sustainable energy comes down to motors these enterprises show that the road to with conventional organisations, in social and batteries. improvement is an accessible reality. A enterprises, less time is spent on asking better world is possible, and even better, ‘how do we organise this’ and more time Even though the study is made from a you as a consumer can now do some- is figuring out ‘how do we make this hap- Dutch perspective and with the Dutch thing about it. Successful social enterpris- pen?’ or ‘how do we maximise this?’ public, the lessons we learn from it are es are often ‹single issue’ organizations universal and transferable. There are four and they democratize the solution to qualities that all of the top organisations Tell stories with, not about make it accessible to everyone. The show: 1. they offer a future vision, 2. they your products inspiring organizations find their raison innovate as a tool, not a goal, 3. they tell For all these successful social enterpris-

The story is in the product. Tony’s Chocolonely’s chocolate bars are unequally divided to hints at inequalities in the world.

38 Society es, the product is the story and not vice ships with their clients. And the top three What is striking is that all the top social versa. Tony’s Chocolonely’s chocolate companies even take it a step further, enterprises we are talking about make bar, divided into unequal parts, hints at they engage their customers in solving a themselves visible. A company’s visibility inequalities in the world. problem. They offer their customers the is undoubtedly a prerequisite for growth What is fundamental to realise is that peo- opportunity to be part of a solution. This and therefore more impact. If you’re going ple want to buy solutions, not products, answers the longing of many of us these to make yourself visible, you might as and high quality solutions per say. It is days. In this day and age, we all long to do well have a worthwhile message. What not enough to eradicate slavery; you also something about the global issues we all is even more striking is that these same have to be the most tastiest chocolate know we are facing. However, we do not social enterprises do not – or hardly do – bar, so it is easy for people to engage know what we can do or where to start advertise. Without advertisement, Tesla in your story. Tesla’s cars are not only and the most difficult part is that we feel was able to entice about 300, 000 people electric, they are meant to be better cars that the issue is very large and so needs to pay a thousand euros for a car they all around. a large solution, that is outside our hands had not even seen. It all starts with a story, as customers. However, these top social a relevant story. A relevant meaningful Nurture connections with enterprises address exactly that. They story is the core raison d’être of social your customer, not loyalty offer us a way – however small and simple enterprises. –to be part of a solution to a large global This is a shift from traditional compa- serious problem. This builds a movement, For social enterprises today, inspiration nies and the customer loyalty programs a community and those are stronger than is not a mirage, it is not a ‘nice to have’, it they employ. Instead, the most inspiring loyalty. is the core of their being, and their drive. organisations today enter into relation- In fact, inspiring people is based on four clear aspects. First and foremost, it starts “Vision with an authentic vision, people need to without know why you as a company deserve action is their attention. The second aspect has to merely a do with who you are as an organisation, Dream. people need to know why they should trust you. Often, it boils down to being Action an innovative organisation with a track without record however young that inspires vision just trust and transparency. The third aspect passes the is about your product or solution as a time. Vision company. A reliable and relevant product with action is a must for people to know, even if implicitly, why they should choose your can change product over any other. And the last as- the world”– pect of inspiration relies on an engaging J. Barker connection, a human relationship that an enterprise can build with its customers. A stimulating and constructive relationship

Dopper makes the problem as well as the solution very clear. Dopper does not only explain their contribution to the circular makes for a community, and that is a long economy, they also clearly highlight the role of the customer. This clear and simple call to action appeals to many looking to lasting bond be part of the solution. Design: www.dopper.com

www.society.qa 39 FLAIR inlife

While we are willing to spend good money on shampoos, anti-ageing creams and skin lightening What’s in a serums, we do not consider soaps and cleansers to be an important ? part of our soap beauty ritual By Dr Sunaina Hameed, MD, Dip.ABLS (USA)

40 Society oap or face wash? Foam or gel? Store-bought or hand-made? Does it even make a difference? Is cleansing really an important step towards good skin? Is it worth splurging on a face wash, when it is only going to be on our skin S Dr Sunaina Hameed, MD for a minute? is a consultant dermatologist and writer based in Bangalore, India. To know more about her, Cleansing is a very basic yet important requirement for healthy and glowing skin. visit: www.drsunaina.com And here’s why…

When you skip washing your face with an appropriate face wash, your skin will begin to darken, turn dry, flaky, thick and 1) Cleansing removes dirt, grime, excess oil and make up. leathery. Moisturizers will not hydrate your skin long enough. 2) It allows your skin to breathe and prevents clogging up Open pores begin to enlarge and you might notice the appear- of pores and formation of blackheads and whiteheads. It ance of acne and blemishes. allows skin oils to seep through to the surface, instead of building up beneath your pores and inviting bacterial over- Finding the right face wash for your needs might take some trial growth. and error. Most people need different cleansers for the face and 3) As we grow older, our skin does not self-exfoliate as well. body. Your face may be oily while your body might be dry. For Cleansers and scrubs help wash away dead skin cells. others, the skin on their chest and back might be thick and oily 4) It allows better penetration of skin care products like se- while the face may be dry and sensitive. Knowing your skin rums and moisturizers. type is an important step towards picking the right face wash. 5) The right face wash can help your skin maintain optimum Consult a dermatologist for guidance. pH levels, which is necessary to retain moisture and remain hydrated. 6) Cleansing is essential for those who suffer from acne. And the right cleanser can help a person suffering from Eczema Knowing your skin type is an or Rosacea. 7) Cleansing is an emotional experience as well, where one important step towards picking feels refreshed after ‘washing away the rigours of the day’. the right face wash. Consult a Cleansing is an important ritual before offering prayers, in most customs and religions. Bathing and cleansing are a dermatologist for guidance. source of sensory pleasure as well.

If you have dry skin For oily skin If you have Select a soap-free cleanser like Cetaphil This kind of skin is more prone to acne and normal skin cleansing lotion. Or a cream based face open pores. Select a gel or foam based face You are blessed because your skin wash like Avene Gentle milk cleanser. wash like the Sebamed Clear Face foaming is not very difficult or demanding. Cream based cleansers are also effective face wash. If you have acne as well, pick a However, soaps for dry skin might in make-up removal when used with a face wash that contains Salicylic Acid or leave your skin oily, and soaps for soft cotton pad. Avoid toner, or face wash- Benzoyl Peroxide. Look for products that oily skin might leave your skin dry. es with high alcohol content. Select a carry the terms ‘exfoliating’, ‘keratolytic’ (skin You can chose Herbal soaps, or soap which contains ingredients like milk dissolving) or ‘non-comedogenic’ on the liquid cleansers like Neutrogena cream, shea butter, coconut oil or aloe label. Use a toner soon after cleansing. Wipe it Liquid, followed by a good toner. vera. Look for products that contain the across your face using a cotton pad. You can Choose a Syndet over a Soap, for word ‘hydrating’ or ‘replenishing’ on the also use salicylic acid containing face-wipe example Dove soap, which isn’t label. Exfoliate once or twice a week with pads, for all the times when water and face actually a soap. an apricot or oat-meal containing scrub. wash are not within reach. The Neutrogena Rapid Clear Treatment Pads, for instance. Hand-made soaps containing charcoal work well on such skin. It is important to use a scrub twice a week. Look for a scrub that www.society.qa 41 contains sea salt or walnut. For combination skin If you have sensitive skin If you have dry skin This skin is overall healthy and easy to Ideally you might need to consult a with acne maintain. Use Glycerine and/or Rose wa- dermatologist before choosing your face Choose an anti-bacterial face wash that ter based soaps or cleansers. Gel or foam wash. ‘Dove Sensitive’ soap is easily avail- contains Cetrimide. Lactic acid contain- based cleansers work well on your skin. able over-the-counter and is relatively ing face washes are a good fit as well. Micellar water, like the Bioderma Sensibio inexpensive. Look for cleansers which H2O is perfect for your skin type. It works have the terms ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘for as a cleanser as well as make-up remover. intolerant skin’ on the label. Look for a pH You can also use fragrance-free cleansing balanced formulation. Select a product wipes. that is fragrance-free and paraben free.

If you have oily and If you have tanned skin If you are outdoorsy or sensitive skin Use a face wash which contains AHAs suffer from excessive Use a soap that contains Bentonite Clay (alpha hydroxyl acids) like glycolic acid sweating and body odour or Kaolin Clay. The Dermaceutic Ad- or lactic acid. Natural ingredients like Use antibacterial or deodorizing soaps vanced Cleanser containing Xylitol and turmeric, saffron, orange peel or berry ex- and body washes. Hand-made soaps Urea is a good choice. Avene Cleanance tracts would work well if you wish to seek made of turmeric, neem oil, geranium oil Gel is another great example. Choose a soap-maker for customized soaps. and gram flour are excellent choices as natural ingredients like tea tree oil, apple well. cider vinegar, citric acid or rosemary oil in your face wash or hand-made soap.

A lot has been said about home-made soaps and their natural soap claiming to be made of lavender, might in fact only contain goodness. Soap makers are naturally vitriolic against commer- lavender scented oil. So buyers beware. cially available cleansers and their ‘harmful, cancer-causing and hormone-disrupting chemicals which are poisonous to What is the correct way to use a face wash? Wet your face and your skin as well as the environment’. This venom is in fact, hands. Take a small amount of the cleanser – cream, gel, foam driven by their own business interests. It is not possible to make or lotion, on one palm, rub it between both palms, and gently soap without lye, which is a highly caustic alkali, although the massage it into your skin in upwards and outwards movements. ‘saponification’ process renders it safe. The Food & Administra- Wait a few seconds to let the cleanser do its job, then rinse off and tion authorities only approve ‘melt & pour’ soaps made from gently pat dry. hot process, for commercial sale. These soaps are more popular due to their translucent appearance, but these do contain On a parting note, I would advise all readers to consult an experi- synthetic chemicals and are not “all natural”. Cold compress enced dermatologist, if you are not able to correctly identify your soaps can be prepared using only natural ingredients. However, skin type and find a suitable cleanser for yourself. There is no such most hand-made soaps contain essential oils and fragrances thing as THE perfect soap or cleanser. Despite expert medical which can irritate sensitive skin. Many others do not fulfil the advice, if you suffer from sensitive skin, it might take some trial and label claims as they are not tested in any lab. For instance, a error before you find the perfect cleanser for your skin

42 Society Society Magazine, a monthly family magazine published by Gulf Times newspaper in Qatar, mirrors the multi-ethnic modern society that is the Qatar of today. For over five years now, month after month, its well laid-out pages with crisply written content, including human interest stories, and sharply focused images have been the joy of families living in Qatar. The magazine offers a broad range of features, primarily based on lifestyle and social issues, relevant to Qatar expatriates and nationals. www.society.qa got a MAKEOVER As the world moves online, Society leads the way with a content- We aim to set the benchmark for editorial credibility in the market with rich, easy-to-browse website. See it at www.society.qa. By creating regular features and articles showcased in a contemporary, high-quality premium content on above mentioned topics, society.qa engages format. There is something to hold the interest of every member of an influential, affluent and highly-educated audience. We create a the family from tiny tots to the adult seeking intellectual stimulation premium content for global thinkers, business leaders and luxury and easy-to-use information from topics as varied as fashion & beauty, consumers to stay informed, inspired and challenged. health &wellness, motoring, education, parenting and technology to arts and culinary tips. INTRODUCING OUR NEW LOOK WEBSITE TOTALLY REDESIGNED. MORE USER-FRIENDLY. MORE FEATURES

Available at:

www.society.qa 43 SocietyMagazine Society_mag Society Magazine Society Magazine society_magazine society_magazine Society_mag Society Magazine FLAIR The secret of nutrition carb cycling Want to know what carb cycling is, how it works, and if it can

Karen Domingos help you is a Brazilian fitness model and athlete who lose weight has been in the fitness industry for 13 years. faster than Her upbeat attitude reflects on her work, traditional home and family life, and her passion extends dieting? Read to motivating women who want to fulfill their on and find goals and inspires them through her own out achievements. By Karen Domingos

arb cycling is a method of dieting that involves planned increases Cand decreases in carbohydrate intake

There are many carb cycling protocols out there, but most suggest alternating between at least two of three types of days: • On one side, High-carb days they’re conducive High-carb days typically call for 2 to 2.5 to muscle growth by grams of carbohydrate per pound of fueling our workouts body weight. They are usually your high- and creating a more est calorie days. anabolic environment in our bodies.

Low-carb days • On the other side, they’re conducive to fat Low-carb days typically call for about storage by spiking insulin levels, which “feeds” 0.5 grams of carbohydrate per pound our body fat with precious glucose for it to store. of body weight. They are usually your second-highest calorie days. The carb cycling can deliver most or all of carbs’ muscle-building benefits with little or none of its fat No-carb days gain drawbacks. No-carb days typically call for less than 30 grams of carbohydrate. They are usually It accomplishes this rather staggering feat by using your lowest calorie days. higher-calorie high-carb days to do several things:

44 Society • Replenish glycogen stores and thus How to calculate and boost training intensity. schedule your meals? Beginners Cycle • Favourably influence various • Monday : Low-carb day A typical low-carb day: hormones related to muscle protein • Tuesday : High-carb day Carbs metabolism and metabolism. • Wednesday : Low-carb day 0.5 grams per pound of body weight • Thursday : High-carb day • Temporarily spike insulin levels to • Friday : Low-carb day Protein help preserve muscle tissue. • Saturday : High-carb day 1.25-1.5 grams per pound of body weight • Sunday : High-carb day Fat • By using lower-calorie low- and no- 0.15 grams per pound of body weight carb days to maximize fat burning. 7am: 2 scrambled eggs with spinach This should allow us to build muscle and 10am: protein shake with berries lose fat at the same time. Advanced Cycle 1pm: grilled chicken salad 4pm: oatmeal with almonds 7pm: steak with steamed broccoli or Is carb cycling good for • Monday : High carb day asparagus weight loss? • Tuesday : Low carb day Any dietary protocol that has you in a • Wednesday : Low carb day calorie deficit over an extended period of • Thursday : Low carb day A typical high-carb day: • Friday : High carb day time will result in weight loss, regardless Carbs • Saturday : Low carb day of the foods you eat or how you structure 2-3 grams per pound of body weight your meals or anything else. It’s not much • Sunday : No or Protein different with carb cycling except that low carb day 1-1.25 grams per pound of body weight calorie intake may vary each day which can prevent weight loss plateaus and will Fat With the Beginners Cycle, you won’t lose help retain muscle mass. as little as possible weight as fast as with the Advanced Cy- cle, but you will be able to maintain your When you diet to lose weight, a portion 7am: oatmeal with walnuts and berries and athletic performance. of the weight lose comes from fat, but a egg white portion also comes from water, glycogen 10am: carrots with hummus and, in some cases, muscle. • Fat loss 1pm: turkey sandwich on whole-wheat Low-carb intake on training days to bread Water and glycogen levels will fluctuate promote fat loss and medium-carb 4pm: chicken salad with quinoa up and down depending on your diet days to promote regeneration be- 7pm: grilled salmon with baked potato and other factors. The idea is to lose fat tween sessions. and not muscle. Keep in mind that you can still enjoy your • Weight maintenance favourite foods, just in moderation. The Typical carb cycling diet consists of 4 low goal is to slowly change your eating habits Low-carb intake on non-training days carb, 1 no carb and 2 high carb days. to include a variety of healthy foods. to avoid fat gain. That’s the kind of formula you can stick to Bodybuilders usually choose to do 2 top for continued success. priority muscle groups workouts (big • Mass gain muscles like legs) on the days with higher Higher carb intake on large muscle Let’s get cycling! carb intake to prevent muscle loss while groups training day to promote weight utilizing the 4 low carb days for increased gain. We need carbs if we want to build fat burn and 1 reward day. muscle.

www.society.qa 45 FLAIR style HOGAN SS17 collection SS17 HOGAN

46 Society HOGAN SS17 collection SS17 HOGAN www.society.qa 47 FLAIR style HOGAN SS17 collection SS17 HOGAN

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www.society.qa 49 FLAIR trends THE BEAUTY BAG Society brings you the latest products from the beauty world

MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolor 01 For those who prefer timeless glamour to all-out flash, matte reigns supreme. MAC introduces a twist on this classic texture with robustly saturated shades of Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour. A splash of colour in a liquid-suede finish that is impossible to forget. 02 03 Shiseido Marc Jacobs Smart Filtering Beauty Velvet Noir Mascara Smoother An ultra-volumizing mascara that delivers instant With the light, velvety skin dimension for epic lashes. The lash-maximizing, curvy blurring solution, Shiseido’s Smart brush places the most volume at the hard-to-reach Filtering Smoother immediately center lash line, and the defining tip styles lashes for absorbs excess face-oil, blurs major drama. imperfections and transforms pores to be less noticeable. Sleek and compact, the container slips easily into your pocket or purse, so you can touch up anywhere, on-the-go, for instantly smooth 04 skin that lasts all day long. H&M Halo Illuminiser Halo Illuminiser gives you glorious shimmery glow. Dab 05 it on your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose or Shiseido Men Skin use it under your foundation Empowering Cream to brighten and awaken your A powerful skin revitalizer that complexion. immediately provides toned radiance and visible smoothness.. Minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and improves skin’s resilience around the eye area and facial contour with regular use. Visibly improves skin’s texture, smoothing away rough areas while minimizing the appearance of conspicuous pores for renewed and 50 Society healthy-looking skin. 08 Alessandro Macarons Hand Cream The new collection of hand creams boasts a spring highlight with a French appeal and is the perfect gift for women on any occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, 06 Mother’s Day or even Easter. Lootah’s Luminous Perfume 09 The Luminous perfume is perfect 07 Marc Jacobs for a woman who wants to stand Marc Jacobs Beauty out and shine. Mandarin as the top Undercover Le Marc Lip Crème note creates a soft lush fragrance Perfecting Coconut Lipstick that blends with sweet middle Primer Indulge lips with a color-rich, creamy notes of jasmine and honey. The A skin-smoothing, makeup- lipstick in a sleek black case. In just amber and musk as the base notes extending primer infused with five one sensual swipe, Le Marc Lip Crème hold all these fragrances leaving a types of coconut to nourish and Lipstick delivers indulgent color that lasts mildly sweet and long-lasting effect. hydrate the complexion. It brings all day long. The unprecedented colour the refreshing feel of coconut to payoff comes from concentrated colour- your face while it perfects and boosting pigments that are triple-milled extends makeup wear. With its and enriched with hydrating ingredients— hydrating, nutrient-rich formula, imparting ultimate long-lasting colour it is especially ideal for normal to and moisture. dry skin types to create a smooth and improved skin surface before applying foundation. 12 Kinetics Solar Gel Nail Polish Kinetics SolarGel Professional Nail polish is a new nail polish that looks like gel, stays for 10 days and requires no UV/ LED light. Should be used with SolarGel Top Coat.

Shiseido Men Deep Wrinkle Corrector This advanced face cream 11 helps correct the appearance of EVAGARDEN Eye Shadow pronounced wrinkles caused by With a velvety feel and pure pigment, the Matte eyeshadow 10 aging or dryness. Especially effective by EVAGARDEN is easy to blend and hyperpigmented, around the eyes. Formulated with guaranteed to last the night. It gives a longlasting, well- Retinol A Complex to help improve blended look to the eyes with micronized pigments and skin texture. Promotes the look of pearls. firm skin and elasticity for younger- looking facial contours. www.society.qa 51 FLAIR gourmet

Making a Marvellous

From stunning cakes to delicious desserts, we’ve got all the recipes you need to give your mom a marvellous Mother’s Day

52 Society ICED GINGER MERINGUE

Just as my ginger cake has a feisty hit of ginger, so too does this frozen delight. I love it for Ingredients its sheer simplicity; all you need is meringues, whipped cream, a good measure of ginger, YOU WILL NEED: some orange zest and a deepfreeze. Served with a salad of minted tropical fruit, it is ideal One medium baking tray. for a celebratory luncheon in the garden. You can also wrap it in ice packs, pop it in a cooler One 600ml / 1 pint china pudding box and impress family and friends by producing it at a picnic. basin and one large baking sheet lined with non- stick baking parchment. FOR THE MERINGUES: 2 free-range egg whites 90g / 3oz golden caster sugar (6 Tbsp) 30g / 1oz demerara sugar (2 Tbsp) FOR THE GINGER CREAM: 300ml / 1¼ cup double cream Zest of 1 un-waxed lemon Zest of 1 orange 3 pieces stem ginger 30g / 1oz crystallised ginger

FOR THE MINTED PINEAPPLE SALAD: 1 small, sweet pineapple 2 passion fruit A handful of mint leaves Method 1. Make the meringues: Preheat the oven to 130ºC / 250ºF. Whisk the egg whites until stiff. Add the sugar slowly while continuing to whisk, to yield a firm and glossy meringue. 2. Spoon the meringue into 10 mounds on the baking tray and sprinkle with the demerara sugar. Bake for 1 hour if they are not crisp after this time, then cook for a little longer. Once cooked, turn off the oven and leave them in while it cools down. 3. Line the pudding basin with cling film and put it in the freezer to chill. 4. Whip the cream until it stands in soft peaks. Don’t over whip it or you will spoil the texture of the frozen dessert. 5. Crush the meringues roughly and mix them into the cream. Finely grate the citrus zest, stem ginger and crystallised ginger into the cream and mix together. 6. Spoon the mixture into the pudding basin and pack down well. Cover and freeze for 3 – 4 hours. 7. Dice the pineapple and combine it with the passion fruit and mint leaves. 8. To serve, turn out the iced meringue onto a plate and accompany it with the fruit salad.

Carolyn Robb, co-founder of The Royal Touch, was formerly Executive Chef to TRH Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana for over a decade and also served other members of the Royal Family. Carolyn’s cookbook The Royal Touch is a beautiful compilation of stunning recipes gathered from far and wide on an incredible culinary journey. Inspired by everything from her mother’s home-cooking, memories of her happy childhood in South Africa and her extensive travels to the extraordinary experiences of 13 years as a chef in the royal household, Carolyn’s recipes are simple to prepare and perfect to share.

www.society.qa 53 MINI VICTORIA SANDWICH CAKES

This cake is about as regal as a cake can be. It was originally made for Queen Victoria. During her incredible 66-year reign, the concept of afternoon tea was created. It evolved and became a daily ritual and a very social event, with ladies dressing in their finery to gather for a cup of tea and an array of tiny sandwiches, biscuits and cakes. The basic Victoria Sandwich recipe is wonderfully simple and foolproof. I urge you to use really good quality butter, eggs and vanilla. Here is my interpretation, which, I think, might have been a little over-indulgent for Victorian times.

Method Makes 6 ‘mile-high’ mini Victoria sandwiches

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF. 2. Line the base of each mould with a circle of non-stick baking parchment and butter the sides. 3. Cream together the butter and sugar until light in colour and creamy in texture. 4. Lightly beat the eggs and add gradually to the mixture with 2 tablespoons of the flour. 5. Add the vanilla extract. Sift the remaining flour and baking powder into the mixture and fold it in carefully. Lastly stir in the boiling water. 6. Divide the mixture between the 12 moulds. 7. Bake for 10 – 12 minutes, until the cakes feel springy to the touch. 8. Cool on a wire rack and remove from the tins. 9. Make the filling: Whip the cream with the vanilla and sugar and place ⅓ of it in a piping bag fitted with a small fluted nozzle. 10. Wash, dry and hull the strawberries, then dice them. Wash and dry the mint leaves and chop them finely. Ingredients 11. Mix half of the diced strawberries YOU WILL NEED: FOR THE FILLING & DECORATION: and half of the chopped mint into the 225ml / 1 cup double cream remaining cream. 1 x 12 hole medium size muffin pan or 12 2.5ml / ½ tsp pure vanilla extract 12. To assemble: Slice the cakes in half individual 5cm (2inch) tartlet moulds at least 30ml / 2 Tbsp caster sugar horizontally. Set aside 6 of the ‘tops’. 3cm (1¼ inches) deep. Spread the strawberry cream on the 10 large strawberries 1 piping bag with a small fluted nozzle. remaining cake slices. Stack 3 slices on 6 sprigs of fresh mint top of each other and finish with one A little extra caster sugar for sprinkling on top FOR THE CAKE: of the reserved ‘top’ slices to make a 4-layer mini cake tower. Repeat with 115g / 4oz soft butter (1 stick) the other cake slices. 115g / 4oz golden caster sugar (½ cup) 13. Pipe a rosette of cream on the top of 2 free-range eggs each mini cake tower and top with a 115g / 4oz plain flour (1 cup) little of the diced strawberry and some 7.5ml / 1½ tsp baking powder mint. Sprinkle with caster sugar. 5ml / 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 14. These are best eaten on the day they are 15ml / 1 Tbsp boiling water made, but can be stored overnight in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

54 Society LEMON TARTLETS

Lemon tartlets will always be reminiscent of Garden Parties for me. I vividly remember the first time that I attended a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace; it was a gloriously sunny English summer’s afternoon. As a child growing up in South Africa, I would no more have dreamt of venturing inside the gates of Buckingham Palace than flying to the moon! It is a memory that I shall always treasure. In this recipe, I use lemon pastry and a filling of my home-made lemon curd, mixed with a little whipped cream. I decorate them with seasonal berries, fresh mint and edible flowers.

Ingredients YOU WILL NEED: Twenty-four 5cm (2 inch) tartlet moulds or 2 muffin trays, A metal pastry cutter 7 – 8cm (2½ – 3 inches) in diameter and ceramic baking beans.

FOR THE LEMON PASTRY: 280g / 10oz butter (1½ sticks) 140g / 5oz golden caster sugar (⅔ cup) Zest of 1 un-waxed lemon 1 free-range egg 450g / 1lb plain flour (4 cups)

FOR THE FILLING: 150ml / ⅔ cup double cream 360g / 12oz lemon curd (1½ cups)

FOR THE DECORATION: A selection of berries, mint leaves and edible flowers Icing sugar

Method Makes approximately 24 x 5cm (2 inch) tartlets

1. Make the pastry: Cream together the butter and sugar. Finely grate the lemon zest directly into the mixture, add the egg yolk and mix well. 2. Sift in the flour, mix and bring together to form a smooth dough. You can use a food processor to make the pastry. 3. Leave to rest in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. 4. Whip the cream until firm and fold in the lemon curd. Cover and leave in the refrigerator until required. 5. Roll the pastry out on a floured board to a thickness of about 3mm (⅛ inch). Cut out circles of pastry and line the tartlet moulds. 6. Place a circle of baking parchment into each tartlet and fill with baking beans. 7. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes and set the oven to 180ºC / 350ºF. 8. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, depending on size. Remove the baking beans and parchment and return to the oven for a few more minutes to crisp up the tartlets. 9. Cool on a wire rack and then remove tartlets from the moulds. 10. When completely cold, fill with the lemon curd cream. 11. Decorate with your choice of berries and finish with flowers and mint. Dust with icing sugar just before serving. 12. To keep the pastry crisp for longer, paint the inside of the tartlets with melted chocolate. White chocolate is best as the strong flavour of dark chocolate conflicts with the freshness of the lemons. 13. If fresh berries are not in season, glaze the tartlets by sprinkling them generously with icing sugar, then usingwww.society.qa a blow torch you 55can caramelise the sugar. SCONES WITH VANILLA AND ORANGE ZEST

One of the abiding memories I have of the Garden Parties that I attended at Buckingham Palace, is of the mountains of cream scones and cucumber sandwiches. Forever more, scones will be synonymous with Garden Parties for me. This is my favourite recipe for scones and my advice is to eat them fresh from the oven and never to stint on the cream and jam!

Ingredients Method cracks, working quickly. If the dough is YOU WILL NEED: Makes approximately 15 scones over-worked it will result in ‘tough’ scones. 7. Pat the dough out to a thickness of 2cm A 4cm (1½ inch) pastry cutter and 2 flat 1. Preheat the oven to 220ºC / 425ºF. (¾ inch). Cut out the scones, dipping the baking trays 2. Sieve the flour, sugar, salt and baking powder pastry cutter into flour each time, so that 450g / 1lb plain flour (3¾ cup) into a large mixing bowl. it makes a clean cut and does not drag 60g / 2oz golden caster sugar (¼ cup) 3. Rub the butter into the dry ingredients using the dough when cutting through it. Place 2.5ml / ½ tsp salt your finger tips, until the mixture resembles scones onto the baking trays. 15ml / 3 tsp baking powder breadcrumbs. 8. Gather the trimmings, lightly bring them 100g / 3½oz butter (7 Tbsp) 4. Blend together the buttermilk, milk, egg and together and pat the dough out again to 175ml / ¾ cup buttermilk vanilla extract. cut out more scones. 9. Bake for 10 – 12 minutes, until well risen 50ml / ¼ cup milk 5. Make a hollow in the centre of the ‘crumbs’, and golden. 1 free-range egg finely grate the orange zest into it and pour in 10. For fruit scones, add in 60g (⅓ cup) 5ml / 1 tsp vanilla extract most of the liquid. Add in the remainder later if the dough seems dry. Traditionally, a small sultanas or raisins at Step 5. For savoury Zest of 1 orange round-bladed knife or palette knife is used to scones, replace the vanilla, orange zest mix the dough. You want to achieve a lightly- and sugar with 60g (½ cup) of grated bound dough that is neither sticky nor dry mature cheddar cheese and 15ml (1 and crumbly. tablespoon) finely chopped chives, added 6. Lift the ball of dough onto a floured surface in at Step 5; top with a little extra cheese and knead it just 3 or 4 times to get rid of any and a light dusting of paprika

56 Society FLAIR travel Incredible

From awe-inspiring Iceland glaciers to geothermal springs and active By Jenn Harris volcanoes, Iceland is a place where nature always takes centre stage

www.society.qa 57 n the 50-minute drive from But Iceland wasn’t really on my list. A sto- Blue Lagoon Iceland’s Keflavik International ry on low-cost airlines (I flew Wow) land- The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa about OAirport to downtown Reykjavik, ed me in the capital city, which I could use the size of two football fields, sits amid an the landscape switched from long, flat as a base to explore the hot springs. Not 800-year-old lava field on the Reykjanes stretches of dirt to patches of grass stud- my idea of paradise, but it helped when Peninsula, a 50-minute drive southwest ded with rocks. my sister Jessica, who was in need of a of Reykjavik. vacation, volunteered to explore with me. It was early August, and it was cold — 40 It is popular, so reservations are required degrees is chilly for a native Angeleno — The plan was to stay in Reykjavik, then because space is limited, ensuring and as I looked around, I couldn’t quite drive to as many hot springs as we could enough sparkling water for everyone. figure out why this place was at the top of without having to join a tour group or get (The lagoon can hold hundreds of peo- my friends’ travel wish lists. on a bus. ple.)

One thing is clear: Iceland is trending. Of course, plans are made for changing, The water, a combination of fresh and The number of people travelling here has which is what happened when the car seawater from the nearby geothermal more than doubled in the last six years, rental company failed to produce the plant, is about 98 degrees, slightly cooler according to the Icelandic Tourist Board, four-wheel-drive I had reserved and paid than your average hot tub. and that number continues to increase for. by more than 20 per cent a year. Ticket packages range from about $48 That meant we had to skip some of the to $200. The premium package, around For this we can probably thank, in part, springs on our list that were off the main $85, is all you’ll need to feel like a king or Wow Airlines, the ultra-low-cost Icelandic roads. But our tiny red Toyota Yaris did queen. It includes mud and algae masks, carrier that tempts with the occasional make it to the Blue Lagoon and three towel, drink of your choice, bathrobe, sub-$100 one-way fare. And I’d also credit other memorable geothermal spots, all slippers and a reservation and compli- social media, which brim with selfies within driving distance of Reykjavik. mentary glass of sparkling wine at Lava, a taken at and in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s restaurant at the Blue Lagoon. best-known hot spring.

58 Society Silica, the Blue Lagoon’s 35-room hotel, is of the Hvalfjordur fiord, we turned left and geyser, the Gullfoss waterfall and the a 10-minute walk. (It is closing in April and walked about eight minutes (our hotel Kerid Crater Lake. will reopen later this year as a 60-room concierge had provided us with instruc- luxury hotel with a new restaurant.) tions) until we came to a tiny man-made We arrived in the morning, which was pool surrounded by rocks. The hot water smart because access is limited to control Jessica and I spent hours walking on the is piped in from a nearby spring. crowding. (The website lists designated lagoon’s smooth rock floor. We eventu- times for tour groups, so plan to arrive ally relaxed, although we had to dodge The fiord’s deep blue water and green before or after them.) tourists who splashed through the water mountains are the backdrop for the small in search of the perfect selfie backdrop. hot tub, which fits two people comfort- The lagoon is behind a small building, ably. Birdsong and the sound of water where you check in and pay about $25 to One of the lagoon’s best features is its lapping lazily at the shoreline provided enter. swim-up bar, where you can buy smooth- the soundtrack for the afternoon. ies and water. We also tried the in-water The Secret Lagoon is about the size of a massage (about $80 for 30 minutes, but As we sat alone in the warm pool, we felt large backyard swimming pool and is sur- you can skip it unless you like the sensa- as though we had dropped into some- rounded by dense forest in one direction tion of sinking), had lunch at Lava (some one’s “Wish you were here” postcard. We and rolling green hills in the other. of the best food in Iceland) and returned alone enjoyed the solitude; we hadn’t to the lagoon for several more hours. seen another human being in miles. Steam rose from the ground, creating a dense fog over the water. A walking The warm water is addictive, so we were But isolation isn’t guaranteed. If someone path allowed us to explore the spurting, glad to have allotted an entire day for the happens to be in the pool when you bubbling hot springs without getting too visit. arrive, you’ll have to wait your turn. close. We spent a couple of hours in the lagoon, which was ample time to relax and Hvalfjardarlaug Secret Lagoon work up an appetite for lunch. A 42-minute drive north of Reykjavik The name may stem from the difficulty took us through lush green valleys, across in finding this place. After our map app Laugarvatn Fontana bridges over rocky streams and down failed us, we had to stop at a gas station for Laugarvatn Fontana looks more like a a pothole-riddled dirt road to one of the directions. heated public swimming pool than a hot most magical spots I have ever visited. spring, with shallow geothermal baths The Secret Lagoon, created in 1891, is one with tile walls and floors. We were sure we were in the wrong place, of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland. so we parked our car to avoid blocking It’s in the small town of Fludir, a little more Not only is geothermal heat used to warm the road, then made our way down a than an hour’s drive east of Reykjavik. the baths, but it’s also used to bake bread un- dirty path. derground. The rye created in its geothermal It’s a popular stop on the 186-mile Golden bakery is delicious. You may want to stop for When we reached the pebble-lined shore Circle tour, which also includes the Geysir lunch rather than a soak in the pool

www.society.qa 59 FLAIR topgear FIVE ALIVE

60 Society Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder ou would be forgiven for wondering if the Horsepower: 248 models are actually new, as the cars don’t Torque: 258 pound-feet Ylook dramatically different from those that Wheelbase: 117.1 inches came before. But look closer. The hood is smoother, and the grille is larger. On the side, there’s a Length: 194.6 inches crease that runs the length of the body. Subtle Cargo capacity: 18.7 cubic feet stuff? Perhaps. But in Germany, this constitutes a Curb weight: 3,878 pounds redesign.

The latest version of BMW’s flagship As you’d expect, BMW’s midsize sedan is once 5 Series sedan offers the same good again offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel xDrive – as the automaker calls its patented sys- looks as the bulkier 7 Series but tem – for an extra $2,300. While the new 5 Series serves them up in a smaller package has dropped 137 pounds through increased use of aluminum, magnesium and high-strength steel, with a smaller price tag to match it lacks the 7-Series’ exotic carbon core structure. By Larry Printz Still, the models share many other commonalities. Before we get to that, though, a little background is in order.

www.society.qa 61 The 530i comes with a 248-horsepower displaying an athleticism that its steering turbocharged 2-litre inline four-cylinder The 2017 BMW 5 feel doesn’t suggest. The same can be said engine used in lesser BMWs, while the Series’ steering of the car’s compliant ride, which doesn’t 540i has a more potent 335-horsepower telegraph its abilities, yet has them, as 3-litre inline six-cylinder engine. Other is light and the car corners with the control and ease variants are scheduled to follow, includ- numb, spoiling an expected from a 5 Series. ing the M550i xDrive with a fire-breathing 456-horsepower turbocharged V-8, as otherwise capable Enhancing its quiet, comfortable, yet well as its Bizarro World opposite, the car that, when incredibly competent attitude is a quietly 530e plug-in hybrid with an estimated opulent cabin that spoils its occupants 248 horsepower emanating from its pushed, performs with iDrive 6.0 on a standard high-reso- turbocharged four-cylinder engine and like a BMW 5 lution 10.25-inch screen. BMW’s info- electric motor. Series should tainment interface will provide hours of entertainment as you work through all While none of that seems too different Assistant, however, proved truly devilish, of the adjustments offered, as well as op- from the 2016 5 Series, notable changes steering the car forcefully back into the tional gesture control, which was cribbed have been made. lane as you try to clip an apex through a from the all-new BMW 7 Series. Wireless corner. The “ultimate driving machine?” charging, Apple CarPlay, multicolor head- Consider the optional Integral Active Only if you don’t order the Active Lane up display, ambient lighting and a Wi-Fi Steering, which steers the rear wheels for Keeping Assistant. hotspot are standard. See? I told you; it’s added agility and stability at speed. Less enough to indulge your inner techie. delightful is the Active Driver Assistant Of course, once behind the wheel, you Plus option, which adds semi-auton- might be surprised to find the driving ex- Well equipped, the 530i sedan will cost omous driving assistance at highway perience prioritizes comfort as much as somewhere north of 60 grand, with a speeds. It’s not that bad, I suppose, as it driving enthusiasm. The steering is light personality not unlike that of a shrunken does take the pain out of rush hour stop- and numb, spoiling an otherwise capable 7 Series. While still very much a driver’s and-go crawl by maintaining the vehicle’s car that, when pushed, performs like a car, the 2017 BMW 5 Series indulges its speed for you. The system also regulates BMW 5 Series should. Tackle the twisties occupants as well. And isn’t that what a the car’s speed for highway exits and traf- MCT and the car rewards you as you’d expect, great luxury sedan should do? fic circles. The car’s Active Lane Keeping

62 Society www.society.qa 63 Society