Filmmaker - Storyteller - Filmmaker Marcelle Meet UAE and Yemen L Calligraphy A A French Speed and Passion and Speed Derby Daring Tamakkanpresents Duschinsky Jon A rabic does rtist with love: with P9 P15 P28 P19 P16

May 2014

d s Meet Noa, the ’ Los Angeles based note visual genius behind Wanderlust Found, a photography and video series that sheds light Welcome to a fabulous new issue of upon the darkest notions Tempo. We’re happy to be celebrating of countries, places that our artists, writers, entrepreneurs, other people take designers,performers, inventors, thinkers for granted. and social innovators.

In this issue we feature an exciting crop of 9 out of the box stars - whether it is Savannah, the 18 year old French girl who is in love with Arabic calligraphy, to the international social innovator Jon Duschinsky, to locally loved filmmaker Marcelle Aleid, to Los Angeleno photographer Noa, to the intrepid roller group that make up the derby club - to much much more.

One thing that’s constant in Tempo is that undeniable spark that’s apparent in all those featured in our pages - whether they are the subject of our interviews, or the contributors who write for us. We love them all for their talent, courage, staying power, and passion.

I take this opportunity to salute all of Tempo’s new partners - the new malls, coffee shops and universities, as well as the brands that have reached out to us.

Let’s make this a better world.

Sana Bagersh Managing Editor

[email protected] Twitter @bagersh

ontents

04 notes & cyberchatter

05 talking books / the blog

06 what’s hot

07 what’s cool / people calendar

09 from LA with love

10 top ten / #temporeviews

11 the dream players: zainab hafiz

12 style blueprint ADDRESS: [email protected] 02 491 8624/25 To reach editorial at Tempo email: . If you need to find out where you can pick up your copy call: or check out the list 13 rejig it of Tempo distribution points on our website.

NOTE TO ADVERTISERS: 15 daring derby Advertisers can request brand tagging with all advertisements. To reach advertising: tel: 02 491 8624/25 | fax: 02 491 8626 | email: [email protected] 16 young artist savannah DISCLAIMER: Tempo Magazine does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors, mistakes and 18 city bites inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the publisher. 19 meet marcelle aleid

MEDIA LICENCE NO. 1/105866/24295 20 #temposwag

21 flash fiction TEMPO GROUP: EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: 22 articulate / dhabi dames MANAGING EDITOR WEB & VIDEO Sana Bagersh Subin John Mathew Adithya Christopher Dr. DMS Rhea Oommen 23 doc in the house / planetarians

Alma Kadragic Fatima Almansoori EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Shahid Saeed 26 technology Ajir Shujahi PHOTOGRAPHER Azza El Masri Lama Younes 28 tamakkan Angeli Castillo Seumas Gallacher MARKETING COORDINATOR Blakniss Mariam Bagersh 29 women in business / an expat returns home Vera Rosales Sophia Grifferty Diji Shujahi Marien Oomen 30 youth talk DESIGN & LAYOUT DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Roshan John Kalarickal Melaku Muluneh Dorian “Paul D” Rogers Rania Elamin Theresa F. Weber 31 tempo skill market 4 www. tempoplanet.com notes cyberchatter space

POST YOUR VIEWS AND COMMENTS ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS like us on facebook/abudhabitempo tweet @abudhabitempo @tempoplanet

ON FIRE GAMES @AbuDhabiTempo great office and loved the vibe! Thank you : ) Becoming A - Noura Al Kaabi @NouraAlKaabi Diplomat Look who just moved in! You can Abu Dhabi Model United Nations (MUN) now pick up Tempo in @MarinaMallAD! By Nisma Osama Hamid Fatouta, Get your copy now! Abu Dhabi International School

Tempo magazine is going like hot cakes here at the Boutik on Reem A diplomat would state the facts and develop the conversation and strive to Island! - Leslie Barbour Pavlovich defend one’s assigned country until the very end. That is precisely what I tried to Thank you Abu Dhabi Tempo do throughout the conference. magazine for this. Small joys of registering with the media zone as When my “country” was called out, I stood a writer... - Archana RD up in front of the other delegates and the two chairpersons of my committee and Thanks to Lama Younes and Abu presented my country’s position on Arab firefighter Mohammed Khair, 23 Nisma ( left) with teammates Dhabi Tempo for publishing my the issue we were tackling. Then I was skills – Mohammed Khair M.K This guy is so talented and that too bombarded with questions that I was The world of politics is unlike any expected to have a direct and diplomatic at this young age. Congrats M.K! – other. What is it that makes it different? response to. Sometimes the occasional Noufel Mohammed I had the opportunity recently to heated debate broke out. ON UAE YOUTUBER explore this question, and to walk in a STRIKES GOLD diplomat’s shoes… ON FASHION MAKEOVER Initially I stumbled over my words and my voice wavered. However, by the end Abu Dhabi Model United Nations of the conference, I spoke clearly and Tamam ya Zoul - Rania Hassan Tempo’s new feature! Love the (ADMUN) is, as its name suggests, a without hesitation. I went from being the concept – Rida conference in which schools in the My friend and YouTube sensation, quietest delegate at my school meetings UAE and other Gulf nations meet to to winning the Gavel award, the most @OHPcaptured on the cover of @ discuss issues and propose resolutions prestigious award there is. This was a great AbuDhabiTempo . Check it out! - for the problems the UN faces. Tamara Clarke @GlobalGazette These include the Kurdish problem, achievement for me as a junior because technological advancement in the I was among so many more experienced context of international security, nuclear seniors. Aside from it being a great disarmament, and so on. The meetings are educational experience, the meeting was conducted in the same manner of official also extremely fun. I got to meet many UN conferences. I was the representative interesting and intelligent people, some or “delegate”, as we were addressed, of of whom I am still in touch with. The Denmark, and I was assigned to the World experience has even swayed my career Health Organization committee. We prospects as I am now considering political discussed two issues, one for each debating science and international relations. day: the ethical and legal issues concerning abortion and the controversy surrounding I am glad I participated, and I hope other genetically modified foods. students who are interested in politics consider the ADMUN Debates and diplomacy are all part of experience. I cannot wait for the the daily routine. The political world is next conference, as I will be a senior then… definitely different in the way in which I hope it will be as memorable debates and arguments are conducted. as this year’s event.

ON TEEN ANGST Are you the one? Very nice article. Good writing. – My name is Oreo. I am a one year old cat, and I’m looking for ON YOUTUBE SENSATIONS Shaun a new family to live with. I was found crossing Baynounah Street – a few weeks old, super-cute, and searching for my Thankyou so much shaun mother. I got picked off the middle of crazy traffic. But I made @QiasOmar Aaaaah this is for your encouraging words! - it, and that’s sort of what my personality is like – I’m a fighter, so cooool.. congraaats!! =D @ I’m playful but still respectful of space (I know how you Manisha. R. Manikuttan AbuDhabiTempo You should human beings can be), I like to be fed three times a day (my favourite brand is Whiskas – but I’m open to new tastes and think about bringing Qias and the flavours). I was called Oreo for obvious reasons…I’m black other Youtubers to AD ;) ON MOVE LIKE JAGGER and white, and deliciously fun like an Oreo cookie. Oh yes, I’m neutered (ouch!) if you’re interested in that kind of thing. - @Hayette_F -And another cool thing about me – I was born with a square حياة Absolutely agree with Charlie. tipped tail…is that cool or what? I’m looking for an open- @AbuDhabiTempo @QiasOmar These old dudes can rock hard. minded family, one that believes in the spiritually uplifting Happy for the students. It is value of inter-species relationships. I’m good fun and ready @captsparklezfan nice article to be part of a loving family. Contact editorial@tempoplanet. thank you - Hobbie Stuart @ indeed a once in a lifetime com if you’re interested in me. HobbieStuart opportunity. – Christine A picture of me. www. tempoplanet.com 5

TALKING BOOKS THE BLOG A book review by Azza El Masri By Seumas Gallacher

Mirror, Mirror on the wall… am I really here at all?

…over the last wee while, I’ve noticed several Author ‘Facebookies’ complaining to the WURLD at large that, basically, nob’dy LUVS them… the sum’times paralysing constant checking of the Amazon Kindle Sales reports with sparse downloads leaves them utterly bereft… the eternal clamour for Facebook ‘likes’ leaves me bewildered, mainly coz I really don’t understand the need for Facebook ‘likes’… it’s even more apparent to me, despite my dearth of little grey cells, that far too many writers, newbies and established names, expect an avalanche of affirmation merely by throwing their masterpieces onto the internet… a-hem… IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!… IT DOESN’T WURK THAT WAY!... consider this, Lads and Lassies of Blog Land— at my last guesstimation there’s a trillion, squillion new titles being released on the ePublishing channels every fourteen and a half minutes… the sheer volume of timeline traffic on Facebook and the other SOSYAL NETWURKS reduces the odds of yer pleas to the readership universe to have a decko at yer WURK being heard… but, all is not as desperate as it may appear… this ol’ Jurassic’s been banging on for a while now about the efficacy of BUILDING THE PLATFORM... yeez have to develop yer NETWURKS’ The Ocean at the End of the Lane relationships… every day, every week, every month… and then by Neil Gaiman maintain and LUV the heck out of them… the measure of ‘success’ differs for each of us, but I still get that fabulous buzz when even Prolific novelist Neil Gaiman, whose works impossible to understand: from ancient one person downloads anything I’ve written, and multiply that like his Sandman series and Neverwhere still vile creatures that manipulate the vices of buzz if they scribble a review for any of it… it’s called ‘affirmation’… make the bestseller shelves well after their earthlings, to shadowy hunger birds that and if we’re honest about it, it’s one of the primary reasons most first edition, presents a quirky and thrilling rip dimensions apart. of us quill-scrape in the first place… to be acknowledged… to know story of supernatural creatures. Pocketed sum’body likes our stuff… but, here’s another wee tip… if Facebook here and there within our universe, his The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a grand is being unreasonable, tardy or reluctant to show emb’dy on there creatures – insidious or helpful – come in all little novel that makes one’s imagination run acknowledging yer greatness, just step over to yer wall mirror… forms and shapes and are much older than wild with horror and fascination. Gaiman’s and repeat after me… ‘ye’re a wonderful writer, I LUV yer WURK,’ the world. illustrious 175-page novel is fueled with just the right amount of fantasy. The author, … that’ll fix it… see yeez later… LUV YEEZ… mean time, if all else The Ocean at the End of the Lane opens whose novels have enchanted strangers fails, here’s a wee peek at my new launch, SELF-PUBLISHING with a man driving around familiar lanes all over the world, is a master storyteller; STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL SALES: http://bookShow.me/B00JBL6K8 and countryside homes that made up his his prose is simplistic, yet often lyrical, and childhood. He stops at a farmhouse at the he communicates profound messages in an end of the lane of his old family house, accessible and matter-of-fact style. Follow Seumas on Twitter: @seumasgallacher where he starts to remember that he might have had a friend – named Lettie Gaiman makes fantasy seem like a natural Hempstock – and that she’d been older… component of the universe, and just like maybe three years older? Or four? They JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis, he effortlessly hadn’t kept in touch; he remembers that she creates one world after the other. This novel 2ND CORPORATE had left for Australia. has something for everyone as it explores adult tropes of pain, betrayal, love, and awe, PREMIUM GIFT FAIR Pulled by memories of his friendship with which youth can understand just as well. MAY 28 – 29, 2014 9:00 - 5:00 P.M. Lettie, he finds the duck pond she used The Ocean at the End of the Lane’s realism to call an ocean. As he sits by the pond, is palpable and transports the readers into BrandMoxie, twofour54, Park Rotana Complex #307, 3rd Floor contemplating, memories start flooding mazes of a fantastical world, and makes us Salaam St. Abu Dhabi, U.A.E back to the real nature of his memories wonder: is the universe really all there is? with his friend. They were events that were too complicated for him to understand; This is your one stop shop frightening for a seven year-old boy, for corporate gifts, promotional items, confusing even to a grown man. Azza El Masri is an avid reader and is always looking for new recommendations! giveaways, executive gifts, The reader is given access to the If you want her to review a book you fell VIP gifts and “green” items! memories of the hero by the author’s use in love with, or leave a comment on her of the first-person perspective. Slowly the book bulletin, then you can reach her on: www.tempoplanet.com/category/talking-books reader gets sucked into a whirlwind of For more details or to schedule a visit, events that grow increasingly bizarre and contact 02 491 8624 or email [email protected] 6 www. tempoplanet.com

TO ADVERTISE YOUR EVENT AND BE INCLUDED IN OUR ISSUE, CONTACT US AT: +971 2 491 8624

Middle East Event Show 2014 May 20 – May 21 JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, Dubai The Airport Show 2014 AmCham Women in Championship The Middle East Event Show 2014 Business Breakfast May 11 – May 13 exhibits event management equipment 12 May Dubai International Convention and such as lighting and sound, temporary Exhibition Centre - Dubai World structures, fireworks and pyrotechnics, An empowerment seminar on financial Trade Centre decorations, props and designs, as well PhotoWorld - Dubai planning for women. The speaker will and special effects. It is also a place May 6 – May 8 explore, and debunk, the excuses that The Airport Show is the leading airport- where the industry can network with Dubai International Convention and women use for not taking personal dedicated event in the Middle East and others in the field and build successful Exhibition Centre - Dubai World financial responsibility. The seven myths North Africa and one of the leading and lasting relationships. Trade Centre include: Money is too complicated to airport-focused events in the world. understand, If I take a risk I will lose This show began back in 2001 catering Visit: www.me-eventshow.com PhotoWorld-Dubai is an annual exhibition everything, I don’t have the money to specifically to the Dubai International that attracts professionals, businesses and save, I don’t have the time to manage my Airport expansion. It has since evolved enthusiasts interested in photography, video money, It is selfish to put yourself first, into a key B2B aviation industry event and creative imaging. Sideline seminars cover Someone else should be taking care of providing the MENA region and Indian new techniques and products. The event is this for me, If I take control of my money I Subcontinent with the latest technologies aimed at visitors from the MENA area. might offend others. and solutions from around the world.

Visit: www.photoworld-dubai.com Visit: www.amchamabudhabi.org Visit: www.theairportshow.com

ADFF at The Space Mondays | 7:00pm ADFF at The Space is a series of film screenings presented by the Abu Dhabi Film Festival (ADFF) in partnership with The Space. Visit www.adff.ae or follow #ADFFatTheSpace

Silent Voices May 11 to May 15 | 8:00am - 8:00pm The third edition of “Silent Voices” will be held at The Space. “Silent Voices” is an art exhibition showcasing artworks done by human trafficking victims residing with EWA’A.

Daisy World Reconsidered (D-WR) May 18 to May 20 | 8:00am - 8:00pm Daisy World Reconsidered (D-WR) is an explosively colourful account of how individual memory and collective consciousness collide. Kings of Leon The art installation is NYUAD student James Hunt’s senior year project JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE May 28 May 23 Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai BLACK SABBATH Filmmakers to Watch screening series Du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi May 29 May 31 | from noon on-wards Launched in 2013, ‘Filmmakers to Watch’ is The multiple Grammy Award winning Du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi a touring screening series that highlights the After dominating the global charts with American rock band will be returning to work of unique and remarkable voices in the 2013’s bestselling album The 20/20 Dubai this summer. Live @ Atlantis brings Heavy metal legends Black Sabbath will art of film making from the Middle East, Africa Experience, and The 20/20 Experience – 2 Kings of Leon who rose to fame with their perform Abu Dhabi as part of the band’s and South Asia. Stay tuned to #TheSpaceAD of 2, megastar Justin Timberlake returns fourth album “Only By Night” which 2013-2014 world tour in support of 13 – The Space is located @ twofour54 to Abu Dhabi. He will be performing at du included the single, Use Somebody. They its first studio album in 35 years, which Rotana Complex, Abu Dhabi Arena, Yas Island, as part of his world tour. will play in Dubai as part of their 2014 entered the charts at #1 in 13 countries (including its first #1 in the US). Mechanical Bull Tour. TheSpaceAD Visit: www.thinkflash.ae Visit: www.thinkflash.ae Visit: www.thinkflash.ae www. tempoplanet.com 7

amor mercado

The Big Picture • 35 Yrs Old at the Pro Art Gallery in Dubai, 10 -20 May • Filipino • Accountant The Big Picture announced the final 40 artists who will exhibit their work for the second edition of the independent art exhibition. The Big Picture is an independent non-profit art initiative, which aims to promote artists in the UAE and provide them with a platform to express their interpretation in a simple method, freeing works from art politics, say the organisers.

This year’s exhibition will also show original works by legendary artists such as Picasso, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, Roy Liechtenstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Bansky. The masterpieces will be showcased alongside the 40 artists from the UAE, including Amar Abou Zahr, Khawla Darwish, Emily Wang,Kevin Badni, Iman Al Sayed and Women Magda Majczyna along others. Empowerment @ Family Development The Big Picture will be exploring Foundation – Main Branch multifaceted artistic creations featuring Abu Dhabi painting, photography, sculpture, digital art, performance art, installation as well as audio-visual arts by emerging and 4 may 18 september established artists. Visit: http://www.gulf4good.org

13th Arab Media Forum @ Madinat Jumeirah

Beirut Film Station 2015 20 may 21 may For young filmmakers from the Middle East and North Africa by the Goethe Institut and Ashkal Alwan

This is the second year for Goethe-Institut and Ashkal Alwan’s residency programme for young filmmakers from the Middle East and North Africa. It provides filmmakers technical equipment and a space for work, along with an opportunity to network with filmmakers from the region and Europe. In 2014, 187 applications were received, and 11 residents were chosen from Lebanon, Sudan, Syria, Egypt and Palestine. The application is open for those who have already professional work experience and who plan to realize a film project or part of it (pre-production, production or post-production).

The deadline for application is 30th of May 2014. Beirut Film Station: http://beirut-filmstation.org/

6th Dubai Tango Festival @ The Meydan Hotel New experimental webisodes pilot. Casting Can you act? Actors / actresses, send your details, photo, 21 may 25 may Call age, ethinicity and acting experience (if any) to [email protected]. 3-4 full days at Dh 400. Those chosen will be invited to audition. < Angeli Castillo BAS Mall Tempo Magazine Ad.pdf 1 3/25/14 2:53 PM www. tempoplanet.com 9

FROM LA WITH LOVE YEMEN TO THE UAE “Yemen is a feeling / An ancient culture / Perpetuated for generations / With vices + virtues / With style + grace / Where generosity is second nature…” - Noa Noa

Meet Noa, the Los Angeles based visual genius What kind of artist are you? behind Wanderlust Found, a photography and Noa: I see myself as a fly on the wall. I try to capture video series that sheds light upon the darkest moments and ideas as organically as possible and notions of countries, places that other people represent them as best as possible to the people who take for granted. Noa kicked off her project with do not have the opportunity to see it themselves. I profoundly candid shots from Yemen and the hope people see my art as honest. The theme of the UAE. She sat down with Tempo to chat about her project is to capture things as they are, as opposed to exhibition, inspiration and future plans. the idea of what people think they are. And I think there is beauty in honesty, in something peple find Tempo: Tell us about Wanderlust Found. ugly. A community may not be the wealthiest and the Noa: It is based on a project that I started shiniest from the outside, yet if you look closely you conceptualizing about two years ago, to places I can see the beauty inside. travelled that were politically significant, where I was able to focus on quality life - basically on What inspires you? things that are not traditionally newsworthy. Noa: There are a few photographers that I think are And Yemen happens to be the first reiteration spectacular. There’s Peter Beard who has done a lot of that… I’ve been travelling around the Gulf for of work in Africa; he does photography mixed with about three or four years now, so I’ve included journaling about nature and a little bit of fashion. I also photos from the UAE and other places in this like Dan Golden who has done very organic stuff in showcase. There’s also a video that I made along New York, where he takes people as they are and how with the photographs, so this is basically a video they live every day. I also draw energy from literature and photography series. Hopefully this will be works by the likes of Henry Miller. the first of many. What’s next for Noa? I produced the Yemen photos over the spans of three weeks back in November 2013. The Noa: Ideally I’d like to go to Myanmar and other similar rest were taken during the period when I was places to continue this project. I’m also being considered travelling back and forth between the United for a fellowship… should that come through it would States and the Emirates. take me to Papua New Guinea, Cameroon and Laos. So we’ll see! Why did you do this project? Noavi’s Wanderlust Exhibition is currently available Noa: I was born and raised in Los Angeles, but I for public viewing at the Le Royal Meridien. have Yemeni roots from my grandmother’s side. I just got here for the exhibition; I wanted to For more information visit: showcase my photos in the UAE because I love the www.wanderlustfound.com UAE. It’s funny that people in the United States do not really have a concept of what countries like the UAE and Yemen are really like. The purpose of this View Noa’s project is to take people’s pre-conceived notions compelling video about what they think a place is and readjust them WANDERLUST FOUND to see the things we have in common with these countries and the people in them. www.vimeo.com/89982912 10 www. tempoplanet.com

Happy All Of Me 1 > Pharrell Williams 6 > John Legend

Fancy Feat. Charlie XCX She Looks So Perfect 2 > Iggy Azalea 7 > 5 Seconds of Summer

Sing My Love Feat. Jess Glynne 3 > Ed Sheeran 8 > Route 94

Nobody To Love Not a Bad Thing 4 > Sigma 9 > Justin Timberlake

Changes You & I 5 > Faul & Wad Ad VS Pnau 10 > One Direction

from the local scene

Altayeb “Boggy” Osama 23 #Sudanese, #Rapper. born & raised in #AbuDhabi. #UAEU graduate. basketball fanatic. Check out his music at www.reverbnation.com/boggy

tempo movie reviews POWERED BY Follow #TempoReviews on Twitter for more.

now showing coming soon Tempo rates the latest movies released in the Gulf. With lots of much - awaited movies releasing every week,

Transcendence Godzilla Genre: Drama | Mystery | Sci-Fi Genre: Action | Adventure | Sci Fi Rating: PG-13 Rating: PG-13 RATINGS: “The world’s famous monster is back in a “Another Johnny Depp film that got more intense scale. We suggest watching underrated reviews. Futuristic and the old films before watching this one!” thrilling, this movie deserves more love!” Directed by: Gareth Edwards Directed by: Wally Pfister Starring: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Starring: Johnny Depp, Morgan Freeman, Rebecca Hall Bryan Cranston

Amazing Spiderman 2 X-Men: Days of Future Past Genre: Action Genre: Action | Adventure | Fantasy Rating: PG-13 Rating: PG-13 RATINGS: “See what happens when the X-Men send “Peter Parker’s past gets him into an Wolverine back to the past to change unexpected web of action and emotions! The history and prevent a clash between cast delivers the nicely written screenplay humans and mutants.” exceptionally well.” Directed by: Bryan Singer Directed by: Marc Webb Starring: Patrick Stewart, Hugh Jackman, Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx Jennifer Lawrence www. tempoplanet.com 11 The Dream Players Judge’s Choice Zainab Hafiz

perform and showcase our work. Abu Dhabi has a really burgeoning art scene and I’m glad to be part of it but the opportunities are fewer and networking is harder. That’s why I’m so grateful for Tempo and The Dream Players who support and bring together artists and help promote them.

You were a Dream Players ‘Judge’s Choice’? Yes. I think the Dream Players and other talent shows are fantastic opportunities for aspiring artists to perform and receive feedback about their art! Even though I didn’t win, I was just so grateful for the opportunity to perform and I had lots of people tell me how they felt about my songs. It continues to motivate me to continue singing and improving my talent. There were so many kids that were also inspired by The Dream Players. It’s fantastic to see that!

Your future plans? I don’t ever plan too far ahead. Right now I’m making the most of my time in the UAE and trying to continue singing and writing as much as possible. I want to focus on recording my own original work and to perform as much as possible.

Advice for aspiring singers? Keep singing! Get out and let people hear you, and listen to what they say. It’s humbling and inspiring and motivating and it will definitely help you grow. But no matter what anyone says, never stop singing.

I am really blessed to still be able to sing and write songs in my free time. The only other challenge is trying to find avenues to perform and find other musicians to

perform with Your inspiration…? My parents were the first to instill the love of music in me. The first singers I remember listening to when I was very young were Michael Jackson and Whitney Introduce yourself Houston. Stevie Wonder is my favourite singer/ My name is Zainab Hafiz. I am 31 years old. I am musician. I really learned to use my own voice by Pakistani, born in Saudi Arabia and raised in California. listening and singing to Etta James. I spent most of my life in the States. My family is still in California. I studied Cognitive Science at UC Berkeley Your achievements…? and that has led me to be an Instructional Designer I don’t have any official awards or anything. I won a creating training programs to teach people how to karaoke contest in San Francisco a few years ago and Dreams use software in a hospital. Singing is my favourite that led me to start a band because I wanted to sing hobby but I also really enjoy dancing, writing, reading, and perform more than just karaoke. The band was cooking, and creating art whether it’s a song or a called The Feral Cats. We split up when everyone painting or some other craft project! moved apart but it’s still the thing I loved most. Players

How did you start singing? The obstacles you’ve faced? I grew up around music. My dad was always singing The biggest challenge has always been trying to Auditions or playing an instrument. I remember the jam sessions reconcile my passion with my responsibilities. I my dad would have with his friends, playing sitar and grew up in a family where we all took care of each tabla. My mom always sang too so I just thought it was other because my father was really ill most of my very normal. I sang constantly in private but I didn’t Now open! life. If I could, I would pursue music full time but I realize that other people also enjoyed my singing until have responsibilities beyond just myself and I can’t a friend heard me on accident and said she liked it. I do that right now. I am really blessed to still be able used to do a lot of karaoke with my friends and the to sing and write songs in my free time. The only send your details and a small more I sang in front of people, the more they liked it, other challenge is trying to find avenues to perform video clip of your perfomance to and it really built my confidence to sing. I decided to and find other musicians to perform with. I was start a band so I could sing more of what I liked, and to really blessed in San Francisco to be surrounded by [email protected] also create my own music. incredibly talented musicians, and lots of places to 12 www. tempoplanet.com

TEMPO'S MY STYLE

Mcmillan Chiwawa

19 YRS OLD Zimbabwe Rugby Player for AD Saracens

Fashion Statement Something bold, loud and outgoing but always classic

Fave buy Beach shorts from Cotton On

Fave store Sacoor Brothers

Top places to shop Cotton On and Matalan

Does AD have style Yes, because of the diversity of its cultures

Fashion hates Crocs definitely

DO YOU HAVE YOUR OWN DISTINCTIVE STYLE? SEND US A PHOTO AND A PARAGRAPH ABOUT YOURSELF TO: [email protected] www. tempoplanet.com 13

I am 38 and from the Philippines. I work as a freelance motion designer and time-lapse photographer. I see my Motorize Time-Lapse Skate Dolly as more of a DIY project. I rigged it together out of necessity: because I needed a dolly so I could take time-lapse photos in a straight line and in arc, on a table or on any smooth surface. It needed specifically to be able to take time-lapse photos in an arc if you place it on a round table. It also needed to be a system that is small enough to carry in a bag. I built it using a skate dolly, a stepper motor, an MX2 controller and a pulley belt. I got the idea to build this after I saw a time-lapse dolly system with a 6-foot rail. I needed a system that can move smoothly. It wasn’t easy. I kept failing at the beginning, but it eventually worked. I participated at the recent Innovator event, and I can see my invention being developed commercially, if given the chance. I believe it is a good system that can, for instance, shoot a 360 degree time lapse of a plant growing, or even a stop motion of different angles inside a 360 degree circle. Invention Motorize Time-Lapse Inventor Skate Dolly Lewis de Mesa

Photo of Sheikh Zayed Mosque taken using Lewis’ motorised time-lapse dolly

www. tempoplanet.com 15 Daring Derby Community Speed and passion on wheels! By Ajir Shujahi

Roller derby is a contact sport where two teams roller skate in the same direction around a track, and competition involves a designated scorer winning points by lapping members of the opposing team. Roller derby is growing a fan base of ardent women roller skaters that love the game not just for the fitness it

Members of the Abu Dhabi Roller Derby provides, but also for its rapid-fire action and unbridled fun.

What is Abu Dhabi Roller Derby, and Derby League (Australia) called King SUE: There’s no indoor venue – it’s a how did it begin? Cam. She reads the game and predicts tough gig as people don’t want to skate SUE: It began in October in 2012. I what is about to happen before it does. outside here. We’re talking to Du The Abu Dhabi came to the UAE and was addicted She is always in the right spot at the Forum who are looking at helping us, to Derby and there was none here. right time and hardly seems to fall but we also need sponsorship! Roller Derby: I reached out for derby people for over. Another player is Bambi Von So what’s next for you guys? months but found no one. Then I Smasher. She is a little pocket rocket SUE: To get big and fill Du Forum Sue Mercer. 41. Australian. hooked up with a girl in Dubai who and can really zip about between up with paying people to watch our Military (in Australia)/ Mom wanted to raise a league and she had skaters. She is quiet agile but don’t made contact with Amanda here games. This sport has a big following Derby name: Suelander let her size fool you, she will take you somehow, so I had a meeting with her overseas: in Australia we used to get down if you’re not on your game! to work out how our leagues would 4000 people to a game, imagine what Amanda. 45. American. we could do here! work and how we would support each We heard that you all have derby Teacher. Derby name: other. Initially Abu Dhabi travelled to names? What’s up with that? TRACIE: A game next year with Dubai Kamanda Dubai. We had the skill set but Dubai TRACIE: Derby names and numbers Roller Derby and maybe even the had the numbers... so it worked like are identities girls will skate under, Cairo group Tracie. 39. Canadian. that for a while; now Dubai are on like a persona where you invent Lawyer their own feet and our numbers are yourself into something you want to How can people get started with Derby name: Nerd Badger growing here. I must say, if it came to be. My derby name is ‘Nerd Badger’. derby here? a showdown Abu Dhabi would beat Derby is a lot about playing a sport TRACIE: Put on some skates and be Dubai!!! Put that in your article haha.... but also being who you absolutely your own hero…that’s from the movie Christopher (Referee). 39. Canadian. Teacher want to be. ‘Whip It’ What makes roller derby fun? TRACIE: This is a great sport that’s SUE: A derby name is your alter ego SUE: Give it a go... it’s amazing fun. Janice. 30’s - American. awesome for fitness, and also a lot and generally a witty play on words: Derby is hard and fun and gets under Teacher. of fun. My name is Rolla Moll…it’s kind of your skin. It builds confidence and is empowering. It accepts all body SUE: The game inspires me; the bond awful so I like the shock value of it. Lisa. 30’s. American. Mother. and unity between the girls and My league once called me Sueviette shapes and does not discriminate. I the fun. It’s a hard sport, you need because I skated around one day with was one of those kids that was average support. It’s not for everyone; it’s a a Serviette on my helmet. Amanda at most sports I played. In this case Heather. 30’s. American. Hospital Administrator. certain type of personality that plays is Kamanda because she used to whether I’m good or not is irrelevant, command her players to do stuff. this game. I think we inspire each I feel like I’m awesome when I play other... but every one of us would have Maria. 20’s. UK. Teacher. What difficulties does the roller derby and that’s what is fun a player they look up to and think is ADRD face? about it. It’s a little big edgy but a amazing. I’m inspired by a player of TRACIE: Getting gear is really hard whole lot amazing... just get your Shali. 20’s. Indian. Engineer. my home league, The Canberra Roller here because no one sells quad skates! skates on and come and join us! 16 www. tempoplanet.com french artist savannah does arabic calligraphy

“Veronika Gess and I wished that Calligraphic Art be perceived in a different manner. Through the elegant beauty portrayed in Calligraphic Art, many viewers will appreciate this type of art at its true value. We will donate 16 paintings to museums around the world. The 1744 pieces of The Ultimate Collection will travel from the UAE to museums around the world, for people to view.

This collection received a unanimous welcome even in Iraq, where a daily newspaper published ‘To Learn Wisdom...French publishes Peace across Islamic Civilization.’

I studied at the Tring Park School for the Performing Arts in the UK since 2009 and graduated in July 2013. I have lived in France, Switzerland and in England, a few among other countries, and I have always been interested in what happens on a financial, political or religious level in the countries I live in.

An 18-year-old French artist who goes simply by the name Savannah is generating attention for her Islamic calligraphy skills, and also for her initiative entitled ISLAM-The Ultimate Collection in which, along with her partner Veronika Gess, she designed a set of 1774 artworks and is gifting some artwork to museums around the world - including, she says, the Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi. Here’s her story. www. tempoplanet.com 17

In France, the art I was ‘bathed’ in was classical art: Monet, Leornardo da Vinci, Degas, Cezanne and Renoir. When I went to the UK, I was exposed to modern art by Rothko, Haring and Warhol.

Through ISLAM-The Ultimate Collection, I wished to unite people who have differences, through art. I appreciate and respect different social and cultural backgrounds, and that’s something not typical of people my age

Calligraphic writings are extremely elegant and detailed, which contrast with the spontaneous, vibrant and colourful backgrounds on which they are placed. Calligraphic art was something I always wanted to do and coming to this region gave me the inspiration to go forward with my passion.

I wish to continue producing art, doing exhibitions and sell my art, and also have my own gallery and card shop. Another one of my projects would be to create the “Dubai Artist Fund” so artists could come from all around the world, produce and exhibit their works.

It is all about respecting one another and living in a harmonious way with our differences. I believe this is a true message of peace and tolerance. 18 www. tempoplanet.com ShhhhhhShhhhhh

TEMPO TRIED & TESTED ByShawarmaShawarma Diji Shujahi

Shawarmas are the quintessential Middle Eastern snack. Over the years UAE has adapted multi cuisines and cultures but the queue for Shawarmas in any Arabic restaurant endures. The up and coming Shawarma-only restaurants are a testimony to the growing love for Shawarmas. Hunting for the best Shawarma joints in town, is no mean task, but here are a few good ones:

WHERE: Beyt Al Khetyar, WHERE: Sanine Palace Restaurant, WHERE: Maroosh, Tourist Club Area Al Najda Street, Abu Dhabi Salam Street, Abu Dhabi What: Meat Shawarma What: Chicken Shawarma What: Chicken Shawarma BUILD: Meat shavings wrapped in ‘khuboos’ with garlic BUILD: Chicken shavings wrapped in ‘khuboos’ with BUILD: Chicken shavings wrapped in ‘khuboos’ with sauce, hummous, French fries and pickles. garlic sauce, hummous, French fries and pickles. garlic sauce, hummous, French fries and pickles. COMMENT: Maroosh has built their entire reputation COMMENT: Beyt Al Khetyar serves Shawarma in COMMENT: Sanine brings Shawarma with the same for decades, around their famous Shawarmas. The the generous “half-moon” pouches with lots of filling. old-school flavor and aroma that has been associated build of their Shawarma might have changed over the The Shawarma comes to you piping hot, and when with Shawarmas for centuries. The Shawarmas here years but the taste and aroma remains the same. The you bite into the pouches you find the right amount are not subjected to any modern twists and do not Shawarmas here are mostly soaked in an irresistible of sauce and crispy French fries. Perfect as a meal intend to be pretentious. If it is the classic Shawarma sauce that keeps you coming back for more. rather than a quick bite. you are looking for, then Sanine is the place to be.. RECOMMENDATION: Maroosh is known for serving RECOMMENDATION: Great value for money as it RECOMMENDATION: Sanine has quite a good food in large family-friendly quantities. costs the same as a standard roll-Shawarma, but selection of fresh juices, and every die hard Shawarma is double the size. fan knows the value of a thick and satisfying cocktail juice. as well.

4 4.5 3.5 www. tempoplanet.com 19

MEET MARCELLE ALEID By Lama Younes

FILM-MAKER STORY-TELLER

“I am a simple person who wishes to help change the productions I have helped to film in Abu Dhabi that “The story of war and of people getting kidnapped world to a better place. It is a big dream, bigger than have now been seen by audiences around the world, is happening everywhere in the region and in the me and everyone else but why not give it a shot? I am highlighting the fantastic beauty, culture and the world. I have seen those who were kidnapped and Syrian and lived in Abu Dhabi since 1991, so I can say people of the UAE. made it out alive, the pain they suffered, and how I carry a Syrian soul and a UAE heart! I write short all they wanted was to see their loved ones again. stories in Arabic and some articles as well which I A Letter is an Arabic short film I’ve been working on. A Letter talks about a real man in a real place post on my website www.marcelle.tv It is about a kidnapped man during war and shows somewhere in the world we live in. What was his the different feelings he passes through while he ‘letter,’ and what happens to him and the letter? I will “I have been in the business side of filmmaking for is locked up somewhere. The film talks about the leave that for viewers to discover when they watch around seven years. I started with The Circle a global letters that are written during war: some reach the film. business conference on filmmaking, which is held loved ones and some don’t. I wanted the world to see annually in Abu Dhabi. I then worked as the Deputy that in war, all people want is peace; to see the end “I was lucky enough to get the support of many Director of Abu Dhabi Film Commission and after of the war! friends and family members and most importantly that as the Project Director of Bidaya Media, the new all the film crew of Media Mania Productions in Sesame Street branch in the UAE and the Gulf region. “I wrote the story as one of my short stories and I Abu Dhabi who volunteered for this film. The film is could immediately imagine it as a short film. I could now ready and I have started the submissions to film “During that entire period I have assisted numerous not get it out of my head and I could clearly see the festivals around the world. We are now working on a international productions to film in Abu Dhabi images I wanted to use to help tell this story in a film. long list of festivals around the world, and my dream and have worked very closely with Emirati film So I spoke to the Executive Producer Roland Daou is that it gets nominated for the Oscar! Once we are makers, helping to promote their films and talent and the Producer David Shepheard and they both done with the festival circuit I will make it available internationally and to support them at film festivals on the internet and my website as well. supported the idea of turning it into a short film. around the world. Follow Marcelle on Twitter: @Marcellealeid I have helped manage short film projects and have “Through films you can tell a story, give a human worked on six of them as Associate Producer. I have solution to issues we face in life in the most peaceful enjoyed working with filmmakers from the UAE way. You hope that people will see your idea for “I want to thank all the people that and the region and also connected with different making the world a better place, and that your ideas Film Commissioners and Film Markets around the are contagious. What is better than films and books supported this film; all the people that world. I have also worked with the BBC on Wild for doing that? If hundreds watch your movie and volunteered or who pledged on the Arabia. This was their first major series to focus let’s say half of them believe in your message and Aflamnah crowd-funding website… or even on the Arabian region and has now been broadcast want to support your idea for positive change… that’s talked about it. I hope viewers like the film, all around the world. I am very proud of the a great achievement! I personally love it!” 20 www. tempoplanet.com

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Follow #TempoSwag on Twitter TO SEE YOUR SWAG OR YOUR BRAND HERE, EMAIL: [email protected] www. tempoplanet.com 21

ZAYED UNIVERSITY’S AL KHARAREF STORYTELLING CLUB

was created to enrich the legacy of the Emirati storytelling tradition and contribute to the revival of this important cultural heritage within the United Arab Emirates. FLASH FICTION IS A STYLE OF FICTIONAL LITERATURE CHARACTERIZED BY BREVITY; WITH THE STANDARD Last year, the Club in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music BEING A STORY OF UNDER 1000 WORDS. and Arts Foundation exhibited Story Mile a collection of 48 original fables and folktales, written by students from the Academic Bridge Program, illustrated by College of Arts and Creative Enterprises majors and translated by ZOWD volunteers into the The Lab Coat language of its characters, Emirati dialect. By Adithya Christopher The tales, which are soon to be published in a book, share not only the storytelling traditions of the Emirates, but have also introduced other key aspects of Emirati culture. These latest stories are creating new footprints in Emirati's storytelling Mr.Flentstroikem (Mr.Flent as we shall call Elsewhere, Mr.Flent: “Based on extremely him now) was on yet another one of his mad, intricate calculations made while eating folklore, while preserving and reintegrating 24 archetypical traditional characters unending rampages. He entered his lab, licked biscuits, I have determined the exact researched by Master Storyteller Abdul Aziz Al Mussallam and designated by the his lips, and ate an entire box of biscuits while velocity by which it is possible to prevent Department of Culture, Heritage and Information as genuinely Emirati back into carefully dividing Infinity by the number Zero. the SG Force from creating the Chaos the cultural landscape. He put on his white lab coat, but it had a stain. paradigm. Space Golf Ball!! Here, I come!!” A dark, black stain the size of a pin-prick. he shouted. (The Golf Ball, of course, refers “Unbelievable!” he said,” Who DARES touch to the moon.) The rocket darted across my coat?!” empty space and the moment it came in the vicinity of the Great Golf Ball, it came to a True Love And then he remembered, it was Martha. standstill. Hovering in mid-space, a ladder Written by: The girl who came to sell him biscuits the descended downwards towards the moon by Fatima Naser Saleh Mubarak Almansoori other day. But now, none of that mattered. like an anchor dropped by a ship. Mr.Flent Illustration by: He had the mission for the day. Remove that stepped down, slightly, steadily (with his Mariam Fahad Yousif Obaid Al Zaabi & Aysha Saif Al Hamrani ghastly black dot upon his sparkling white anti-gravity boots), all the while holding coat and make it clean and white once more. onto his lab coat with firm, strong hands. He would achieve this, he thought, but how? to see him go, but accepting for the (Biscuits were the secret of his energy). The Leaving aside the divisions and subsequent sake of their future. The sounds of multiplications, Mr.Flentustroikem went into moment his boots came in contact with the his lab. His OTHER lab. Wearing his astronaut white moon, he stopped, placed the shirt on goodbyes filled the air. Hamad drove suit, he jumped into a rocket he’d made for top of a pole (which he took from some part away, leaving a tearful Alia behind. himself while being bored. (The reason he of his astronaut’s suit) and placed it firmly was bored was that he’d done all there was to within the moon’s land. He then proceeded During the first semester, Hamad do and if you’ve done all there is to do then to a nearby rock, sat down, placed his timer what is left for you to do that you’ve not done on the ground, and waited. became friends with his classmate because you’ve done it all and nothing is left Salma. He treated her like a favored to be done ?) Eating biscuits of course, although it’s not sister. She used her soft skin and wild clear how he managed to do that on the beauty to lure him into love, hiding The rocket was shaped like a pomegranate moon, scientists remain baffled to this day with a large ice-cream scoop shaped structure about this extraordinary feat of Flentish her true intentions behind dark, silky at the top. At the bottom of the “pomegranate” hair, innocent eyes and a kind face. was a large tube, almost like a cone faced innovation. All at once, the timer ticked, downwards. The rocket ran on Frequently and as expected, the lab coat was once Altering Rocket Traveler’s Steam. In a more white. It seems to be of the utmost Hamad eventually fell in love with moment’s notice, he was in the rocket, and the importance to ask the question that shall “Hamad! You’re stupid for Salma. A year later, he came home. pomegranate-like rocket was about to launch now be presented below: ever trusting me” into Outer Space. By night, he dreamt that Salma was a “Why go to the moon to remove the pin- wolf, eating his heart. By day, he felt 3….2…..1….. prick stain upon the lab coat via exposure someone was watching him. He didn’t to a region without an atmosphere, when know it was Um Al Duwais. And off the rocket blasted (and as for HOW all you need to do is send the lab coat to nothing below was burned or destroyed, that’s the laundry?” another story). As the rocket left behind it One night, Hamad started thinking a trail of unintended stench, it pushed itself Once upon a time, the sun was Indeed, if such a question were to be asked, about breaking off his engagement to forward to break through the gargantuan an equally baffling answer would have to smiling, the flowers were dancing and atmospheric barrier, and soon, it entered space. Alia. Um Al Duwais was furious and be stated. However, I am not at liberty to a symphony of birds was singing in The true reason behind why Mr.Flent was so do so. Mr.Flent then put on the clean, white appeared as Salma with evil, red eyes. adamant to enter desolate space for the sake of celebration of Hamad and his gorgeous coat, put the pole back into whatever place it Hamad started to run. Um Al Duwais a stain on a lab coat was completely unknown cousin Alia’s engagement. Um Al to anyone at that time. Many of the world’s came from, jumped into his rocket and went cried, “Hamad! You’re stupid for ever back home (with the help of Fr.Al.Ro.Tr.St of Duwais, the jinni of love looked at the top politicians and leaders and presidents trusting me.” He called a friend in and others convened a conference when course). Once back, he relished the taste of a couple with a smile on her face and Ireland and asked about Salma. He they heard of his untimely departure. They dark chocolate biscuit (which seemed all the laughter in her heart. discussed, argued and consequently decided more tastier while he wore his coat), when learned the truth that he had wished that it was best to leave Mr.Flent to his own all at once, a single drop of that savory cream with all his heart was a lie. He felt Um Al Duwais is an Emirati legend and devices. The round table conference ended and dropped onto his Moon-Washed lab coat. A devastated, betrayed and foolish, but the world was once more at rest. Maybe. dark, black stain the size of a pin-prick. a beautiful woman with the legs of a deep down inside he knew that he donkey and a tempting fragrance that deserved it. lures cheating men to their downfalls. However, her most important role is Hamad remembered an old, Emirati IF ONLY I know I might have a chance to clean up, that of a guardian, safeguarding the proverb, ‘The sweetness of the dress once I get to the large corporate building precious love of couples. is to patch it with itself.’ He learnt his By Mariam Bagersh I work as a security guard in. I have just enough time to wipe away some of the lesson and realized that his first love “You’ll never make it! Go wash fast!” he smell of sweat that accumulates in a room Four months after their engagement was pure. That’s how Um Al Duwais exclaimed. The men in the room are starting to of 15 men. We change into our individual party, Hamad got a scholarship to reunited Hamad with Alia, his one rustle and I’m understanding the slight sense work clothes that will outline our roles of urgency in the wide-eyed man in front of throughout the day. As we leave the large study abroad in Ireland. Alia was sad true love. me. The lines in his face always seemed like building, a few men are beginning to walk to scars that deepened with each breach of his the big buses – they are the early birds, who dignity, rather than the subtle marks of old want to remain sweat free by sitting as close age. I help him up, despite his protests and he to the AC as they can. A man in a big shiny walks to the bathroom; he knows that only car, with his fresh clean clothing, drives by DO YOU WRITE SHORT SHORT STORIES? one of us will have time to wash up properly fast and throws insults through the window before the hoard of men huddle in front of the as his car spews dirt on us from beneath the Share them on Tempo. Send your story to: bathroom awaiting their turn. But I continue tires. We take our seats in the bus, and the helping my elder with his morning rituals… old man says, “if only…” [email protected] 22 www. tempoplanet.com

Tempo contributor and award-winning poet, Dorian “Paul D” Rogers, sat down for coffee with multi-talented musician and artist, Ahmed “Shaf” articulate Alshafea, to discuss art.

it speaks to me, the way we converse, the massive amount of emotions attached to “her”.

Paul D: So your brother deserves some credit for your musical success. That’s after you forgave him for opening your gift I am guessing. What is your favourite instrument to play?

Shaf: My favourite instrument is the piano. There is something about the sound of its strings, and the way the hammer strikes each one of them, the great dynamics of this instrument, and how I can control its loudness and softness. I love how its presence in any song can make a huge difference and add so much to its meaning and that it’s the only instrument that can exactly translate what I feel.

Paul D: You are also a music producer and engineer? When did you get into that side of the art form?

Shaf: Before I joined SAE-Dubai in 2010 to study audio production, I was always interested in sounds. Every time I listen to music, I connect each sound I hear with a memory, a colour, a smell, an emotion, a place, or even time. I then started translating whatever I feel or connect with in to my music.

Paul D: You are one of the organizers of Lamatna, a poetry initiative in conjunction with the Sudanese Cultural Club. Tell me more about that. Tempo contributor and award-winning poet, Shaf: I play many piano, guitar, flute, bamboo Dorian “Paul D” Rogers, sat down for coffee flute, bansuri “Indian” flute, percussion, and Shaf: Lamatna, a Sudanese word which means “our gathering”, was with multi-talented musician and artist, Ahmed ukulele. I guess what made it easier for me to actually a thought of a very good friend of mine and co-founder, Reem “Shaf” Alshafea, to discuss art. learn all of these instruments by myself is my Alfadil. We noticed the huge numbers of talented Sudanese and Non- natural familiarity with tones, notes, and how Sudanese youth in Abu Dhabi and the UAE not only in poetry but in Paul D: Tell me a little bit more of your they sound. different forms of art. We then decided to gather them all in one place upbringing. You are of Sudanese descent but where they can showcase their talent and improve their skills. Since we grew up in Abu Dhabi. Where were you born? Paul D: How did you get in to music? already have a great venue at the Sudanese Cultural Club that supports us fully, we decided to take this to the next step and have the first show Shaf: I was born in Omdurman, Sudan, back in Shaf: I remember for my fourth birthday, my last November. We were surprised by the large number of people that 1985. I then moved here to Abu Dhabi when father brought me this cute little Casio yellow, attended and showed us support. We have a lot of plans for poetry I was one year old. I was a very crazy and mini keyboard. I wasn’t interested in it at all, so adventurous kid and used to spend most of my I kept on playing with my friends. My brother workshops in English and Arabic, day dancing in the street with my friends. decided he wanted to open the box and try it. music workshops, acting, drawing The second he touched it and it made a sound and many disciplines in the Read the Paul D: Maybe you can teach me some of those near future. entire interview is when I became hooked on music. Music has online: moves sometimes. You are a multi-talented always represented a personality to me. I always tempoplanet.com musician. What instruments do you play? refer to it as The Lady Called Music; the way dhabi dames By Marien Oomen Gushing Granma They say a grandmother is a mother who has a second chance, Last week, my friend Suja, another grandma, told me how reading the bible, trusting in God more than anything else. or a mom with a lot of practice. Walking my dog around my she kept her grandchild, busy chatting, singing and doing her I treasure her diaries in which she tirelessly wrote down compound, the other day, I bumped into my neighbor Juliet homework, long distance from Dubai, on Skype, while her all the sermons she heard, with little notes on the side. Her and her husband. Their little grand baby was in the pram, and daughter took a much-needed nap after a hectic working kneeling by the bedside in prayer is a sight my children won’t ever forget. Pattom Amma, as they called her, would they excitedly announced they were giving him his first bath day. Technology put to good use imparting great pleasure on dress as Santa for Christmas, bring the most unusual gifts, all by themselves. The parents had gone to Al Ain and left him both sides! and she always had the lyrics of her favorite songs in her in their charge. It was grandpa who was doing the honours, little handbag which she would produce if anyone needed grandmamma was just a little too hyper and couldn’t trust Precious People some entertainment. herself. I wished him luck. May your skills come back in double Grandmothers come in all shapes and sizes. The more dozes, I said. fashionable ones cast aside their traditional attire and don I have seen many beautiful grandmas right here in Abu modern clothes for convenience. When they visit, they take Dhabi. They nurture their grandkids long distance or near, Far away in India sits another doting grandma, Annu over the kitchen and cook the tastiest meals. They also have with blessings, letters and gifts. Grandmas never run out of Ammachy, who has written a collection called ‘Never Do traditional recipes for any ailment, their ultimate chicken cookies and kisses. Grandpa might lose some of his patience, Stories’ for her grandchildren, in which she writes of all the but grandma is always holding the fort, and maintaining soup, being the cure of all diseases. Sleeping next to them, in naughty things she did as a child for which she was punished, peace. My Scottish grandma friend, almost 75, showed off her the crux of their arm, is the ultimate in comfort. Ultra modern and which her grandkids must never ever attempt to do. The grandchildren’s pictures, far away in Scotland, with great pride grandmas get techy and learn to write emails, use Facebook grandkids loved her stories as she weaved mystery, suspense and tears in her eyes. and tryst into the fabric of her tales. Their eyes would get and take the new world in their stride. They even “google”. rounder and mouths open wider as they heard of an ancient These grandmas leave a heritage that all the money in the cupboard that was never opened, and whose key was never The best part of the grandma factor, what I remember of world can’t give. So next time you see an old lady, remember found. Or of the boat that was found drifting on the river how my mother was to my kids, was the praying bit. My that she is someone’s grandma, and because of that worthy of with nobody inside. mother always insisted on praying to our heavenly Father, your respect. Treat her kindly. www. tempoplanet.com 23 doc in the house planetarians Dr. DMS Rania Elamin A doc from the Bronx

Adopting Sustainability

‘Sustainability’ is a popular concept how to embed responsibility practices not just in Abu Dhabi but all over the into an organisation. world. It is also referred to as corporate responsibility, corporate sustainability So where does the responsibility and in some organizations corporate of sustainability reside within an social responsibility - different organization? In many entities in Abu terminology but the same meaning. Dhabi and around the world you may see the role placed within the strategy What ‘sustainability’ means may differ and planning division, or within from one person to another. I was corporate communication, or as part of fortunate enough to be a founding human resources, or alternately within member of the prestigious Abu Dhabi the environment, health and safety Sustainability Group (ADSG) which (EHS) division. Hello??? started the sustainability dialogue in Abu Dhabi and organized several Rarely would you find sustainability awareness-raising and knowledge- managed as an independent role. Yet Is Anyone Listening? sharing sessions; as well as serving as at recent sustainability workshop the a think-tank on sustainability. So for message was that “ideally sustainability I have seen a lot of changes during the Negligent parents! (This is the nicest the sake of this article, I will adopt the should be under the CEO but managed few years that I have been here. But I way I can describe them). Why terminology of the ADSG: sustainability by the sustainability manager”. In fact, have to say, when it comes to certain are there no rulings that mandate awareness journey. the reality is that within most of the issues nothing seems to have changed sealed windows on all high rises and organizations sustainability doesn’t at all, and it has resulted in a seismic balconies? People have demonstrated Sustainability is the concept by come under the CEO at all, but is driven shift on how I view well-being matters. time and time again that they are which an organization “achieves and from the bottom up with very limited apparently not responsible enough. maintains superior performance over CEO buy-in! I love reading about how much progress a period of time, while at the same there has been in such a short time How about the unsecured kids in time taking into consideration all Sustainability should be a strategic here, but this of course is based on moving cars, the ones hanging out the its stakeholders’ present and future dimension within an entity, placed selective milestones. I applaud the windows or sun roofs, and those who needs,’ states the ADSG Sustainability within the heart of its business, yet pristine highways, beautiful new treat the moving car as a playing field? Handbook. more often than not, it is neglected and architecture and great airlines, but Again, kids don’t always make the best treated as a marginalized activity. these are things that we as individuals choices. So who allowed this behavior? I see sustainability as an ideal that don’t have any control over. The parents. I have read about would make the corporate world a In other instances when the role is numerous campaigns to buckle kids cascaded down the organization from But…how about those flying kids better place. It reflects the right things up yet I still see this negligent parental senior management the challenge falling out of buildings? Or the erratic that an individual should do to protect behavior. And explain this to me, why then becomes the execution; how to selfish approach to driving? Or the the environment, society and economy are the parents strapped in, while the embed sustainability into day-to-day lack of children’s car seats? Or the as a whole. kids aren’t? business; how to identify sustainability childhood obesity epidemic and poor champions; and how to reflect eating habits? All these issues are all So what is the solution to all this? Working with the ADSG was responsibility across the business. controlled by individuals - and the How about laws that are enforced and immensely fulfilling. I was sitting at a public at large. HARSH penalties, for a start? People forum that included 15 of the leading need to fear penalties. We can continue public, private and non-for-profit Sustainability is a challenging role Let’s look at a couple of these closely... to educate people all we want and see organisations in Abu Dhabi: debating with many obstacles, but it is also a marginal improvements…but folks, how to educate people on sustainability, discipline that is dear to my heart, and How does a kid fall out of a window? you’re individuals and you need to take how to report on sustainability and well worth pursuing. How is a toddler big enough and/ or responsibility for yourselves. On top of strong enough to haul himself out of that, you need to understand that there a window or over the balcony/mall are consequences of your actions that railing? Why are the windows or affect others besides you; the “Butterfly balcony doors open while the child GET ENGAGED. effect” is real. is not being watched? These are not BECOME A PLANETARIAN. the thoughts of a genius, but rather I used to get furious about these things, a normal concerned parent. I watch but now, for better or for worse, I am > www.theplanetarians.com my kids closely because I know that becoming quite ambivalent. I know > www.facebook.com/ they are not yet in a position to make that you’ll do whatever suits you best, theplanetarians the best decisions for themselves all and by doing so, it further justifies my the time. They have no concept of belief in Darwinism. > www.twitter.com/theplanetarians consequences. So, who is to blame??

26 www. tempoplanet.com

game hedz tech talk Blakniss Shahid Saeed Original game head from Atari to XBox! Talker for the Non-Techies technology

What’s on NOKIA X Nokia has long been known as a mobile handset manufacturing giant. The Nokia X is their first device, working on Android OS. Nokia X is based on Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Dual Core 1GHz processor, 512 MB RAM, 4GB Internal memory, a 4-inches WVGA capacitive touch display, 3 mega-pixels FWVGA camera and Dual SIM capability. The battery provides up to 10.5 hours of talk time over 3G and is equipped with 17 days’ standby time with dual SIM.

NOKIA X

SAMSUNG GALAXY S5

SAMSUNG GALAXY S5 The Samsung Galaxy S5 has been officially launched. The S5 is the latest challenger device to launch into an ever-crowded The first quarter of the year is done, market. This time Samsung’s focus is more into what users which means it’s time to recap what’s need; the phone looks great; and you can easily recognize coming up soon! the S3, S4 and Note 3 DNA footprints in Galaxy S5 design. A But first, have you gotten Titanfall, good thing about S5 is that it is water and dust proof - to an Dark Souls 2 or the 3rd episode in A IP67 rating - which means it’s completely resistant to dust Wolf Among Us? Do. and water to a depth of 1 metre for 30 minutes. The S5 uses So what highlights be there in the a snapdragon 801 2.45GHz quad core CPU with 2GB RAM next 3 months? The veeeery long combined with Full HD Super AMOLED 5.1-inches display awaited Watch Dogs is the most and a 16 mega pixels camera. The other cool features of S5 are anticipated highlight, look out for finger print scanner and heart rate sensor. Samsung has also Ubisoft’s cross platform joint May included a ‘kid mode’ which enables you to restrict device 27. It’s essentially Assassin’s Creed usage while in the hands of kids. The S5 is packed with 2800 in the 21st Century. Hacking, hiding, mAh battery and gives up to 12 hours of Talk time. vigilante justice.

At the end of April the arty cross platform game Child of Light will have been released. Also from Ubisoft it’s an RPG where a little kidnapped girl Android for Rotimatic must bring home the sun, moon and stars and escape the clutches of the wearable’s coming (Automatic Roti Making) Queen of the Night. Highly stylised BBC: Google is branching out in the wearable The Asian bread, Roti, is well known and consumed and imaginative, side-scroller. technology market, with the release of a software all over the world. Ideally you want to make fresh development kit. This would allow developers to homemade roti or chappati, but that’s not always Finally, The Last of Us (I know I can’t create wearable devices such as smart watches and possible for working women, and men. Well now not mention it) will get a remastered fitness trackers using the Android operating system. Zimplistic has manufactured the “Rotimatic,“ which edition for the PS4. That should be, Samsung’s Galaxy Gear smart watch did, for some time, can make the dough and cook fresh roti in a matter of interesting, but not sure it will be a run a version of Android - but following concerns over must-have. minutes. Here’s the video: (http://www.youtube.com/ its interface and battery life, switched to the Tizen watch?feature=player_embedded&v=EsfccHgWDb0) Follow me on Game on! software platform for its latest watch, the Gear 2. @shahidaasi

MY FAV APP: HAAD HAAD: The Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD) is the regulatory body of the Healthcare Sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi that promotes health and wellbeing in the population. This application gives you access to news and events, information about HAAD. In addition, you can also search for doctors, facilities, pharmacies, medicines, sick leave certificates etc. Free to download for Android devices. > Shahid Saeed

28 www. tempoplanet.com

the shocking images from Syria, or other such crucible of poverty and suffering that inhabit the daily newscasts. As you think tamakkan about these things, maybe you also start to think how much you would really like to presents.... help that homeless person back onto their feet, or do something that would make a real difference for those people suffering in silence. You maybe even begin to imagine what you could do.

And then you realise the coffee is cold, or the cup is empty, and you cease the daydream put the cup down and go back to your routine and daily life.

We all have these “coffee cup” moments. They are all different, but I believe that they are absolutely critical. In those moments of reverie, we each hold a small part of the future of the world in our hands. And what fascinates me is why some people put the coffee cup down and don’t go back to their day jobs. Why do some people act on the compulsion they feel in this moment, and why do others simply not?

We live today in the era of the Conversation. The future is being created, more than at any time in our history, by individual people. People who are “Jon Duschinsky” passionate about something are using the power of the Conversation to share their International Social Innovator interests and values and gather a tribe around themselves of people who feel the How do you get voted as ‘the world’s and social justice. Hence much of my work causes. But as I mentioned earlier, money same way. These tribes are influencing second most influential communicator today focuses on helping businesses put the given to good causes only represents 2% consumer behaviour, they are influencing in social innovation?” (being beaten only agenda of conscious capitalism at the heart of GDP (at most). Well-run, values based policy, they are influencing almost every by Bill Clinton?) TEMPO asked the man of business. businesses can contribute to humankind aspect of our societies. who that did just that: Jon Duschinsky - a in many more tangible ways than charities TEMPO: Tell us about bethechange the Today, policy follows people. Corporations towering figure in global philanthropy or any other organisation (including global consultancy that you founded. follow people, too: people have changed and social innovation. What were the successes and challenges government). And as the case builds their buying habits and attitudes, and this TEMPO: Jon you’re known for you faced? from a profit point of view for adopting has legitimised conscious capitalism and championing the idea of companies these business practices, more and more helped begin the slow transformation of integrating social profit with financial JON: I have always been interested in companies (the other 98%) are following successful corporate models. profit, and giving back to the step-change – how to take things to the this path and reinventing the landscape community. Take us back to the start of next level – rather than slowly progressing around social change as they do it. Billions of people are leveraging the power of the Conversation every day to achieve your career: how did you develop your the status quo. At bethechange, the modus P&G, for example, launched their “Proud things that are important to them. And so ideas, and what were the influences that operandi is to identify the obstacles and sponsor of mums” campaign at the London if we can understand why some of them shaped your thinking? challenges that a non-profit is facing in achieving its mission and then focus on Olympics, and continued it in Sochi. They choose to put down their cups of coffee and JON: I began my career as a humble using creativity and innovation to remove championed the role of mothers in the go back to their routines, and why some fundraiser, standing on street corners them, one by one. Bethechange takes a lot lives of athletes, and by doing so opened capitalise on their “coffee cup moments”, we shaking the tin to get people to donate of inspiration from the Margaret Mead up a huge conversation around the lack have the opportunity to perhaps harness the most powerful tool of social change to causes. As mundane (and very cold, quote « Never doubt that a small group of of value that many societies attribute to known to man. especially in the winter) as this may thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the work of mothers. This conversation sound, it gave me an opportunity to learn the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that moved the needle on this issue way more what it was like to stop 3000 people a ever has.” effectively than any government policy day and ask them for money to make change, or NGO fundraising campaign had Who is Jon the world a better place. I learnt a huge TEMPO: How do you see individuals, ever managed previously. and companies, harnessing the power Duschinsky? amount about the psychology of giving, TEMPO: How can each of us be a positive of innovation and creativity for the how people relate to causes, and where force in this world? charities were succeeding and failing in social good? Jon Duschinsky is co-founder of The Conversation Farm, a global strategic engaging people to make change. JON: We are witnessing a real upsurge in JON: In my recent book, (me)volution, I communications agency based in North creativity in this field. Some of the world’s write about a concept that I call the “coffee Over the course of my career, it became America and Europe, and his portfolio largest companies, such as Coke and P&G cup moment.” Imagine sitting over a cup clear to me that philanthropy, whilst of coffee, taking a short break from the includes two books and faculty roles are experimenting with new ways of using important, represented only a very day. You are staring out of the window, at several universities on both sides their brand to connect people and to achieve small piece of the puzzle. In most sipping your coffee and daydreaming. of the Atlantic. Duschinsky take an new types of positive contributions. Perhaps countries, no more than 2% of GDP Maybe you are thinking about an image innovative approach to solving the one of the most exciting innovations is the is channelled towards philanthropy, that you saw on the news last night, or world’s problems: The Conversation way that companies engaged in conscious and in many countries it is much less. something that you read in the paper Farm creates ideas that engage millions capitalism are actually rewriting the I became fascinated with how we this morning. Maybe you are thinking of people in conversations that are fundamental notion of social good. about that homeless person who asks could develop innovative new ways to aimed at changing attitudes and leverage the remaining 98% to achieve We tend to associate social good with fairly you for money as you walk past them on traditional notions of giving money to good your way to work every day. Or about behaviours. Its clients include Fortune greater impact on issues of social change 500 companies, NGOs and governments in over 20 countries. Tamakkan is an initiative aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship, leadership and innovation. Established in June 2009 by BrandMoxie, a leading advertising and marketing company in the UAE, Tamakkan Read the support s the growth of SMEs and startups by providing access to information and networking, as well as entire interview online: promoting innovation, best practices and corporate social responsibility to corporations and institutions. tempoplanet.com The initiative has steadily grown into a powerful knowledge sharing and training platform that has contributed to the development of the local economy. For more information, visit: www.tamakkan.com www. tempoplanet.com 29 women in an expat business returns home Theresa F. Weber Dr. Alma Kadragic Follow Theresa on Twitter: @TheresaFWeber Follow Alma on Twitter: @almakad

The Growing Number “Thriving” of Women Billionaires with Arianna Huffington

The 2014 Forbes Billionaires list has the that number:, Mark Zuckerberg (age 29, highest number of women billionaires $28.5 billion, Facebook CEO) Sean Parker ever – 172 out of 1,645. That represents (age 34, $2.4 billion, former Facebook 10.5%. It also has the highest-ever President and Napster founder)and Jan percentage of newcomers. Of the 268 Koum (age 38, $6.8 billion, Founder of people new to the 2014 Forbes Billionaires Whats App). Jan Koum created Whats App list, a record-breaking 42 are women or in 2009 as the first smartphone application 16% of the newcomers. to let people send text messages between different phones and countries for free, Women Billionaires – Self-Made versus using only their cell phone numbers. It is Inherited Wealth now the biggest mobile messaging service That is encouraging news for women in in the world with 430 million active users, business. However, a closer look reveals bigger than Skype and Snapchat combined. that only 1.9% of female billionaires built It was recently sold to Facebook. their own fortunes versus inheriting one. Where are the women? Well 22% - or 7 of American TV host Oprah Winfrey, Spanx’s the 31 youngest billionaires – are female. founder Sara Blakely and Facebook’s Chief Perenna Kei is the youngest billionaire Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg are – male or female - at age 24. However, examples of women who have become the females on the list did not create but billionaires without the help of a parent, rather inherited their wealth. They are husband or sibling. As Sandberg notes in Arianna Huffington with lawyer Serena Minott on the left and Alma Kadragic on the right from Hong Kong, China, France, Germany her best selling book Lean In, “Businesses and Switzerland. Here is the listing of the are going to care about diversity not youngest female billionaires in order of because they want to do good in the world. When I lived in the UAE from 2005-13, I (equivalent to Minister of Health). Shalala their age: They are going to care about diversity if it’s attended many events in Abu Dhabi and asked questions and Huffington answered. going to change their bottom line.” #1 Perenna Kei –$1.3 billion, Hong Kong, Dubai but except for the Emirates Festival Later, the audience also asked questions. Inherited, Age 24 – She owns 85% stake in of Literature and the Abu Dhabi Book The entire performance took about an hour New women billionaires who have built Logan Property Holdings Fair, none directly involved books. In and was streamed live to bookstores where their own fortunes represent a variety Miami I’ve found that book-related events Thrive is on sale and available to anyone of businesses ranging from on-line #9 Yang Huiyan –$6.9 billion, China, happen almost daily, and I get to meet an with a good internet connection. information technology to oil. They are: Inherited, Age 32 – China’s richest woman author, acquire the book, and network at I’m still reading Thrive because I always as Vice Chairman of real estate developer the same time, as often as possible. • Sheryl Sandberg - $1.05 billion, U.S., Country Garden, her fathers stake. like to have a non fiction book – that I’ll Self-Made, Age 44 - COO of Facebook Two weeks ago I was at the University be able to put down when I start feeling #11 Marie Besnier Beauvalot - $2.7 billion, of Miami at an event organized by the sleepy – next to my bed. If you didn’t hear • Denise Coats - $1.6 billion, U.K., Self- France, Inherited, Age 33 – She inherited Women’s Chamber of Commerce - a local Huffington in person, it’s worth buying. Made, Age 46 – CEO of Bet365 an French dairy giant Lactalis, producers of group that has been around since 1984 Her thesis is simple. online betting firm popular President brie among hundreds of uniting executive women in all industries The “third metric” is quality of life; the • Folorunsho Alakija - $2.5 billion, other cheese, milk and yogurt brands – and Books & Books, a major independent first two are money and power. Most Nigeria, Self-Made, Age 63 – Nigeria’s bookstore and a leader in marketing books #13 Julia Oetker - $1.75 billion, Germany, of us wouldn’t mind having both, and first female billionaire thanks to her in new ways. The University provided the Inherited, Age 35 – Youngest of eight women around the world work hard own lucrative oil-producing asset, space and the interviewer, and students billionaire beneficiaries of the Oetker at school and on the job to fulfill that Famfa Oil attended the presentation along with fortune built on baking and pudding ambition. Huffington’s point is that there members of the chamber. Women who inherited their fortunes also powder is now a holding company that is more to life than work and that never employees 26,000 people and generates represent a wide range of industry sectors from Everything was constructed around having time for yourself and your family $15B in annual revenue cosmetics to clothing to real estate to media: Arianna Huffington, founder of the makes no sense. Huffington Post, and her new book, • Jane Lauder - $1.15 billion, U.S., #17 Yvonne Bauer - $3.5 billion, Germany, She calls on women to redefine success Thrive. The Third Metric to Redefining Inherited, Age 41 – Youngest American Inherited, Age 36 – Fifth generation of her and to work better by working less. One Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, billioniare thanks to the beauty family to run Bauer Media Group, which of the pillars of the method she advocates Wisdom, and Wonder. business her grandmother Estee publishes 600 magazines in 37 countries is getting enough sleep. Huffington quotes world wide. Lauder created Members of the Women’s Chamber and well known people including former US President Bill Clinton who says that all • Sandra Ortega Merca - $6.1 billion, #26 Rahel Blocher - $2.9 billion, their guests were invited to a reception the bad decisions he ever made came Spain, Inherited, Age 46 – Her wealth Switzerland, Inherited, Age 38 - She is the at 4 pm. Meanwhile, as students lined when he was too tired to think straight. is owed to the Inditex clothing retailer largest shareholder along with her sister up outside to buy the book and to enter started by her father Magdelena of Ems-Chemie, a gigantic Swiss the auditorium, Arianna Huffington Perhaps her most controversial point is polymer and chemical manufacturer her circulated around the reception, banning electronics from the bedroom. • Carrie Perrodo - $10 billion, France, family has run for decades. graciously greeting us and posing for That includes TV, iPad, and smart phone Inherited, Age 63 – She manages the photos with everyone. which she says must be turned off at fortune left by her late husband, a #31 Miriam Blocher - $1.1 billion, bedtime and left in another room. I agree family owned oil company, Perenco Switzerland, Inherited, Age 39 - She is a Chamber members didn’t line up to major shareholder in Ems-Chemie and sold buy Thrive. An autographed copy was with her about turning off the phone Women Billionaires – Under the Age of 40 some shares to buy Lackerli-Huus, a Swiss included in the price of tickets ($40 for – I don’t have a TV in the bedroom and confectionary and baked goods company. members, $50 for others). As we checked never use the iPad there – but my trusty The 31 youngest women and men on the in, we each received a copy. BlackBerry is handy, next to the bedtime Forbes list (defined as under the age of Lets hope we see more women on the list book. I turn it off when I turn out the 40) have a combined net worth of $115.7 next year, including women who earned On stage at 5 pm, Huffington sat with light, and power it back first thing in the billion. IT dominates the list. Three their listing without the help of a parent, Donna Shalala, President of the University morning to check email before getting Facebook employees account for 42% of husband or sibling. of Miami and former US Secretary for HHS out of bed. 30 www. tempoplanet.com

Our World, Our Hands A letter from a UAE ‘expat’ at Boston University By Rhea Oommen

Once in high school, as I was standing outside the exam hall waiting for my friend to finish her test, I clutched a heavy book titled “A History of the Modern World.” For those few minutes, I felt inexplicable pride as I imagined holding the Left to right Julia Grifferty, Amira Subaey, Ashwini Singh entire world in my hands. FIRST EVER TEDX YOUTH Much as I love watching historical fiction and visiting museums, I could never major in history at college because I @ACS ABU DHABI was always somehow intimidated about learning anything that happened before the 1200s. There seemed to be way too By Sophia Grifferty, 11th Grade Student Council Vice discontinuing the use of plastic water bottles is both much going on in ancient civilizations. More recent history, economically and socially beneficial. Her anti-plastic President, ACS such as the Renaissance, the Enlightenment and the World bottle campaign has swept the American Community Wars appear to some extent more accessible and ‘safe’. Abu Dhabi’s youth is active, exciting, and inspiring as School, and plastic water bottles are no longer sold to evidenced by the first TEDxYouth event held recently students. TEDxYouth was the perfect outlet for these Last week, I was speaking to an Egyptian friend who spent at the American Community School of Abu Dhabi students to express their passions and inspire new a year at the American University of Cairo. I asked her what (ACS). Organized by high school students Dina Shriem ideas and ways of thinking in the audience. the campus was like, imagining something similar to my (Palestinian) and Dennis Hilgendorf (American), and Watch the presentation here: university…lots of classrooms, a cafeteria and maybe (if you’re adviser Lane Graciano, the theme of the event was “tell http://www.youtube.com/user/TEDxYouth/videos lucky) a bowling alley. I was surprised when she casually told us a story,” featuring 10 presenters: three students and me that the university was less than an hour’s drive away seven teachers. Teachers’ topics included reasons to TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) is a nonprofit from the Pyramids of Giza! It dawned on me that it didn’t read classic literature and questioning the meaning of organization that began as a conference in California matter how trendy and intellectual my campus in Boston education. But the best presentations were by three high 26 years ago and has since then grown into a global set is, her ‘historical’ varsity wins every time. Close to Ancient school students who each had their own unique message of conferences with live presenters communicating Egypt?? Talk about making ancient history accessible to to convey. ideas and stimulating conversation. With its slogan modern day education. and mission “ideas worth spreading” TED created a Ashwini Singh, a 16-year-old South African, spoke programme called TEDx, which are independently Why is it that the only times we celebrate the past is when about anime—Japanese film and television animation— organized events designed to give communities, it is romanticized in movies or books? In the UAE we always and how it has something for everyone. She advocated organizations and individuals the ability to create a local seem to be living for the future. We always want to build the that through the medium of anime that attributes such TED-like experience. With more TEDxYouth events, as compassion and generosity can be learned. Abu Dhabi’s youth can continue to inspire the public. world’s biggest, ‘best-est’ something. It’s a good thing to look forward; but sometimes it’s just as exciting to ponder the past. Amira Al-Subaey, a Saudi-American 16-year-old, spoke about the seven lessons she learned from her Think about the mysteries of your country and religion. Think Do you have any ideas worth journey to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Being the spreading? of your roots, your heritage and then think beyond that. youngest Saudi woman to top the African peak, And cool facts like, somewhere, somehow we are all related Amira talked about her experience through different For information about TED’s upcoming because there is only a 0.1% difference in genes between two conference, visit lessons she learned including “surrounding yourself humans (thank you Psych 101! ) http://www.ted.com/registration with motivation,” “mind over matter,” and that “the Sometimes I google a query and find only questions of other end is not the end.” She said she would carry with Oganize a TEDx event her, for the rest of her life, the lessons she took down http://www.ted.com/participate/organize-a-local- people who are looking for the same answers as me. So I urge from that mountain. tedx-event you to go ahead and google/read/watch and search and study the past, even your own past. You may find some of your Julia Grifferty, a 15-year-old American, talked about Follow TED on Twitter at family’s history locked up in a trunk in your grandfather’s http://www.twitter.com/TEDtalks, or on the detriment of using plastic water bottles, and her house. You may even have some cool stories to swap with Facebook at environmental campaign titled “Boot the Bottle.” http://www.facebook.com/TED your friends. Julia gripped the audience demonstrating how Promoting the creative community. Showcasing artists, designers, creators, devolopers, writers TEMPO SKILLMARKET performers andfilm makers*.

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Thriving as Freelancer: TIP #1 One of the toughest things that you are faced with as a freelancer is managing and scheduling your time. Since no one is dictating what you do, monitoring your effort, or keeping you in check, that means that you have to be your own manager. It means that if you have planned to work for say 9am to 6pm, then do it! That is that has been set aside for work, so don’t pilfer it in running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or spending endless time surfing. Check in periodically and assess progress made. Imagine that you have a boss that you are accountable to, and work that has to be completed by a certain time…and yes, breaks that have to be taken as well. Making a habit of this will get you on the road of disciplined and focused output, and that’s the very first step towards achieving successful independence. [TEMPO] Tuesday May 6, 2014 STUDENTS, TEACHERS, PARENTS AND PROFESSIONALS from 4 pm to 8 pm ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND OUR ANNUAL Masters Open House 2014

You are cordially invited to the • Transports, Logistics, Territorries • Banking and Finance Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Masters and Environment (NEW!) • Marketing, Management, Open House on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, • Geodynamics of Current and Past Communication and Media from 4 pm to 8 pm. Spaces (NEW!) • Teaching French as a Foreign Language • Social Research: Consulting, Survey Take your career to the top and explore your and Evaluation (NEW!) • International Business and Languages study options by networking with fellow • Muslim and Arab World Studies (NEW!) • Urban and Regional Planning professionals, interacting with the alumni and consulting with our faculty members. • International Business Law • History of Art and Museum Studies • International Law, International • Performing Arts Management The road to success starts at Paris-Sorbonne Relation and Diplomacy • Publishing, Information and Multimedia University Abu Dhabi, so unlock your career • Sustainable Development Law potential and achieve your dreams.

For more information contact: [email protected] | +971 2 656 9252 www.sorbonne.ae