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Feel Your Tempo @tempoplanet @feelyourtempo THE RHYTHM OF YOUR LIFE Dec 2016
TEMPO’S DEDICATION TO THE NATION P. 16
The Editor’s Note Contents
I take this opportunity to wish the UAE, and its Artists 11 Album Spotlight people, a very happy National Day, along with 13 Music News long lasting peace and prosperity. 24 Shutterbug ADP FEATURES When I first came to the UAE, I was fresh out of university from the US and eager to get my first job. My parents sent me to Abu 05 Life Hacks Dhabi to be with my extended Emirati family, where they hoped 16 Vox Pop: National Day I’d be safe, productive and God willing, ready for marriage 17 A Dedication to the Nation in due course. 26 The Smovies
That was 1985 - a long time ago, right? Well, I stayed with my Uncle Khalid who was like a father to me, his wife Wafa who FOODIES became my confidante, and their wonderful kids Hiba, Ayman and 19 The Epicurean Hadeel, who are now grown and married. As you might imagine, I stuck out like a sore thumb from the start...my extended family often didn’t know quite what to do with me as I struggled to fit GUIDES into this country that was my new home. 09 In the Cinemas 10 Tempo Top 10 Songs My first job was as a reporter in Gulf News; I was one of a handful 12 Tempo Events of Arab female journalists covering hardcore news beats. I struggled with Arabic, with making sense of Arabian culture (to the dismay of my quite-conservative family) and occasionally MOVERS found myself in trouble culturally, socially and professionally. I covered the police beat, and yes, it’s true that I accidentally 03 The Ed knocked down a police motorbike with my car while covering a 05 Being Happy story! I was assigned to cover the FNC and looked odd as the only 25 Youth Talk / Parental Guide woman in the large parliamentary chamber. I had the privilege to meet countless newsmakers such as Wilfred Thesiger, Princess Diana, Prince Charles, Kofi Anan, Nelson Mandela, Benazir Bhutto, SOCIAL Jacques Chirac, President Bush Sr, Richard Branson and... the 04 Tweets for Thought amazing Sheikh Zayed! 08 Instafame
I left Abu Dhabi for some years between 1990 and 1997, leaving to Seattle where I settled down and started a family but soon STORYTELLERS returned to Abu Dhabi. I came back to a job as bureau chief of Gulf News, then Marketing Director at Thuraya... and then became 04 A Thousand Faces CEO of BrandMoxie, editor of Tempo, founder of Tamakkan (an 22 Tempo Talks Books / entrepreneurship initiative) and since then have been engaged in Librarian’s Lounge cool community and nation-building work. 23 Flash Fiction 28 Saif and Sound I am reminiscing about the past because of the UAE’s National 30 Time Capsule Day - and its significance to me and my family. I have lived on three continents, and I have not felt more at home anywhere than in the UAE, a country that has embraced my family and have STYLEMAKERS made us only too happy to give back. 14 Blueprint
Sana Bagersh @sanabagersh Sana Bagersh TECHIES
Managing Editor [email protected] 20 Game Hedz
TEMPO GROUP: CONTRIBUTORS:
MANAGING EDITOR DESIGN & LAYOUT Blakniss Sana Bagersh Shuhaib Shihabudheen Denise Schnitzer Fatima Al Mehairbi Lana Nasser Shahid Saeed EDITORIAL COORDINATOR web developer Heather Long Vandevoorde Nikith Nath Neil Bie Rasha Yousif Diego Sandoval Tomi Adetayo DJ Saif Jae Franklin Nilofer Safdar Vanessa Middleton EDITORIAL ASSISTANT DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Noelle Pope-George Melaku Muluneh Dorian Rogers Khulood Al Janahi Sana Ashraf Vera Rosales
ADDRESS: To reach editorial at Tempo email: [email protected]. If you need to find out where you can pick up your copy call: 02 491 8624/25 or check out the list of Tempo distribution points on our website.
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MEDIA LICENCE NO. 1/105866/24295 4 www.feelyourtempo.com
A thousand faces By Tomi Adetayo | www.a1000faces.com
interested in the guitar. My uncle gave me Roberts, who took me under her wing and my first guitar for my birthday. It was a invited me to play guitar at Beats of the How Ray Melo Found His Groove! beat-up Spanish acoustic with nylon strings Beach at the F1 Fan Zone, White Cube’s so thick it caused my fingertips to bleed, Metronome, and Rooftop Rhythms’ Abu but I taught myself how to play basic Dhabi Soul. Through her I met my musical chords on it. I learned how to tune each sister Zainab Hafiz, who is one of the most string correctly, and how to play by ear, powerful singers around and with whom alongside music CDs. I’m currently developing a super group called The Hype. Our band consists of her “After a year and a half, I started taking on lead vocals, Sarah Gamal El Gohary guitar lessons with Clint Stewart, who on lead vocals/rapping, yours truly on was a mentor and a virtuoso. Through lead/ rhythm guitar, Soufian Rabhi on his teachings I learned how to sight- lead/rhythm guitar, Jose Mohamdo on read, incorporate different scales into my percussion, and Khalid Al-Temimi on playing, improvise, and compose my own the drums.” music. My early influences ranged from all genres of music - from The Beatles, The “A few week ago The Hype showed up Rolling Stones, The Band, and Bob Dylan unexpectedly at Viewz in the Cristal to hip-hop legends like Tupac Shakur, The Hotel for Open Jam Night and we shared Notorious B.I.G., Busta Rhymes, and Nas. the stage with Eric Sesbreno and his As a guitarist, I base my playing on the band YFY, who are the best in the Abu blues, rock, and R&B music. My heroes Dhabi music scene. There was a sense include Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Keith of camaraderie with everyone and we Richards, and Pete Townshend as well as enjoyed feeding off one another musically. bluesmen like Robert Johnson, Muddy “Music is probably the only art form Waters, Jimmy Reed, and B.B. King. I am that touches people on an emotional also influenced by rhythm ax-men like level. I find music to be very therapeutic Steve Cropper, Jimmy Nolen and Catfish because it allows me to escape from all Collins from the James Brown Band, Eddie the hardships of life. Whenever I feel like Hazel from Parliament-Funkadelic, Charles the world is against me, I either grab the Smith from Kool & the Gang, Nile Rodgers Stratocaster or sit in front of the keyboard from Chic, and Ernie Isley from the piano and play my heart out. By the time I When you live for music, it shines through Isley Brothers. hit that last note, I feel a sense of joy that your performance. Meet Ray Melo, a “My name is Ray Melo and I am a musician. makes me forget what I was upset about talented guitarist and performer. Ray talks I started playing music when I was 12. “What motivates me is to play alongside in the first place. In the words of Bob about his journey from playing the drums I played the drums at the Robert Van some the best musicians the UAE. It not Marley, “When music hits you, you feel as a kid living in America to performing Wyck Middle School band in New York for only gives me the opportunity to showcase no pain.” on the Beats on the Beach F1 Fan Zone two years. From there, I took keyboard my talent with them, but becomes a in Abu Dhabi. He loves to meet new piano courses at Osceola High School in learning experience of what to do and not people, make new music, and perform to Kissimmee in Florida. However, it wasn’t to do on stage. I’ve been blessed to work YouTube- www.youtube.com/ a diverse audience… until I was 17 that I became heavily and collaborate with people like Kenda MackMasterRayShizzl1
tweets for thought
HH Sheikh Mohammed Jim Carrey Markiplier Hank Green @HHShkMohd @JimCarrey @markiplier @hankgreen
Official Tweets by Actor Jim Carrey! the turkeys will play Co-Founder: http:// His Highness Sheikh youtube.com/vlogbrothers Mohammed bin Rashid Al , http://DFTBA.com . Maktoum Don’t worry folks as SciShow, Crash Course, long as the Sun is If you nap for 6 hours VidCon, and other things. We look forward to revolving around the is it still considered a T-Shirt Size: M share our message Earth, we’ll be fine! ;^P nap? There’s a fine line of hope, peace, (but a big difference) tolerance and between preparing development for a for a negative better world. outcome and acting as if it has already occurred.
Sara Zarr Imaan Sheikh Aziz Ansari Dina Hashem @sarazarr @sheikhimaan @azizansari @dinahashemsays
Writer. Person. Aging Writer, doodler. Non- Pasta lover. I don’t tweet comedian/hero naturally since 1970. It’s resident spicy meme- much. My new Netflix series not you, it’s me. dreamer & GIF-maker Master of None is now Some people say at @BuzzFeedIndia. streaming on Netflix. Accurately described once I’m never angry. They haven’t seen Sometimes I just as ‘Deranged man-hater posing to be a feminist’. I know I talk about me ragefully throw stare at a map of the how much I hate world and ponder wasting time on the away recyclables. how little I know Wow this clean eating internet, but when the My vengeance shall about anything. thing is so we- oops entire internet decides emerge in the skies ate 3 samosas. to be super nice to and seas! you, it’s dope.
Do you have an insightful tweet? Tweet to us: @tempoplanet www.feelyourtempo.com 5
By NILOFER SAFDAR By Denise Schnitzer Life Hacks [email protected] BEING HAPPY! @deniseschnitzer Audacious Authenticity and Herculean Happiness
It’s a new month; the last one of this year. happiness. Imagine lying on a tarp in the Wake up, smile, and tell yourself, “Today desert with friends, surrounded by sand is my day!” Then go out and be amazing, dunes and a few desert plants, looking up joyful and happy. and watching the Milky Way come into focus at night. Celebrating National Day in the UAE, expats and locals band together to lionize this That’s a happy experience. Be creative and fabulous place we call “home” and to show do stuff. Seek and you will find FUN. gratitude to the founders of the nation. When we are truly authentic with our I have found that when I seek like-minded gratitude, miracles occur. Everyone should people, FUN occurs and my heart is happy. live this month in audacious authenticity! Whether I choose yoga classes, stand- Show your true self: be brave and be bold. up-paddling, kite boarding, sailing, Panto, How to Have Fun at Your And if you want to attract happy, positive Mahjongg or reading by the pool, it’s always things and people.... become a happy better with friends. Find FUN and share it; I positive person yourself! do! Happy people choose being with other happy people. Next Family Vacation For the past three years, I have thoroughly enjoyed decorating our flat with flags, Stretch yourself and learn, do, explore banners, signs, pom-poms, and glittered something new every chance you get. Gentle flowers to celebrate my adopted home reminder, “people are faces until they are your friends.” A vacation with your family can 3. How much fun is during National Day. Sharing experiences such as this enriches my life and adds to my be great fun, but it can also be full possible today? American ethicist Michael Josephson said, Be open to the fun and the joyful. The mental treasure chest of memories. of stress and hidden minefields “Every now and then it is a good thing simplest of activities can be a source of to stop looking for happiness and just be I have learned that happiness always starts as you run into unexpected enjoyment, whether it is a walk on the happy.” For me, I believe changing my with YOU! Not with your relationships. obstacles and glitches. Here are beach, a game of badminton with the kids, focus as well as the environment changes Not with your job. Not with your money... or a day at the movies. You just have to my mood. When I go outside for a walk at my thoughts on how you can with you! I have learned to open my heart look for them. lunch time, I benefit from a little sunshine guarantee fun. to new places, situations and friends and and fresh air. Nature has many lessons and to let miracles occur. I have been blessed 4. What other possibilities remedies. Listening to happy, upbeat music with fantastic and generous friends whom 1. What kind of holiday do you want? are available? also increases happy feelings. Taking a walk I met during my tenure here. I see each This is a question I like to play with when I Sometimes, unexpected glitches crop up. along the beach is one of my favorite ways opportunity to mix and mingle with them as am planning a holiday. It takes into account to renew. You can choose to be upset about them, a gift. the preference of each member of the or you can embrace different possibilities. family. Look for unexpected answers and be As a practical guide to enjoying the miracles Don’t be stuck on a plan. Be ready and Lunches, dinners, movies and trips are some open to what people may offer you. of life, I suggest reading books and blogs willing to change anything. ways we get together and enjoy our expat from people who have mastered a well- life. Sharing simple joys is an awesome way 2. Ask about what grand and glorious lived life. Doing new things, NDBs (never 5. Don’t overfill the day to be authentic. It doesn’t take much to be adventure awaits you. done before) will open up not only new with activities. happy. Joining expat social groups, going on experiences, new friends and new goals, but Wake up every morning and ask this Don’t overschedule your day; allow some outings: “Remote Abu Dhabi,” Warehouse will also grow your mind. question. It sets the tone for the day. It down time. Maybe read books, listen to 421, Yasalam events, Mother of the Nation brings you out of the mindset of yesterday music, chat with friends, slow down. A festival, and camping out in the desert are Remember, an authentic open heart and and elevates your day from the mundane. constant schedule of activity is very tiring. wildly FUN activities that lead to herculean mind is the key to Herculean happiness.
notes & cyberchatter
Tempo polL of the month What are you most excited about this season? On Uncover Coconut’s Magical Power:
Spending time with Going home for the holidays. “I’d heard of the supposed miracle of my family. coconut before, but thanks for sharing its benefits. 57% 12% I’m not really doing -Hafsah Hakim Opening presents! anything.
34% 11%
On Volunteer Opportunities On Bridging Diversity: for Youth: “In a community like ours, it’s “There’s so much that the youth of important to recognize our today can do for their communities. All differences. However, we shouldn’t let these wonderful opportunities are only them set us apart from others. That’s the tip of the iceberg.” why initiatives like this are so important!” -Lizzy Davis -Maria Ness 6 www.feelyourtempo.com
ARTiculate Cafe By Dorian “Paul D” Rogers | @pauldtheripy
Celebrating the Culture and Heritage of the UAE: ‘Hekayeh’ at New York University Abu Dhabi
I sat down with Bill Bragin, Dorian: Last December, you debuted world, and then as a group we review more venues where independent artists Culture and Arts impresario Hekayeh which you’ll be holding again submissions and select the final list, can have a chance to develop their and Executive Arts Director of this month. Where did you get the idea which is different from what any of original work in front The Arts Center at NYU Abu for this event from, and what should we us would do on our own. This year’s of audiences. Dhabi. We discussed everything look for in the upcoming one? Hekayeh has a little more music than from the art of curation to last year, and artists come from more Dorian: Any thoughts you want to leave the upcoming second annual Bill: This is an event that was inspired varied backgrounds. us with? edition of Hekayeh. The by an event I used to present at Lincoln highly anticipated event is a Center called La Casita, which was a Dorian: Why do you think Hekayeh celebration of UAE’s National celebration of oral traditions through is needed? Bill: Heidi Rodewald, who is here with Day that shares the stories and poetry and music. Because poetry Stew for their show Notes of Native artistic talents of locals and is such a revered art form in Emirati Bill: Hekayeh is a celebration of the Song, gave a songwriting workshop the expatriates in the country. culture, and because the spoken word UAE, designed to honour National Day other night and talked about her artistic scene has grown so much thanks to and Emirati heritage, while also looking Dorian: Where did you grow up and journey. She described discovering Rooftop Rhythms and its offspring, it at the uniquely polyglot society the how did that shape your life? punk rock in LA, after growing up made sense to adapt this approach to UAE has built. It builds and strengthens on show tunes and bands like The Bill: I grew up in Long Island, in the the UAE by building it around National community through art, which is one of Carpenters, and “finding her tribe.” suburbs of New York City. It was a Day as a celebration of heritage the main missions of The Arts Center. typical suburban upbringing but and identity. The next night, audience member beginning in eighth grade I started Dorian: The Arts Center has given and Arts Center regular Zainab Hafiz Abu Dhabi, and the UAE a world-class going into the city on my own. This Dorian: How does this event compare told me that every time she comes to exposed me to an abundance of music, to the one you held last year? culture and arts scene. How do you see the art scene developing in the our events she walks away changed. I theater and art from a young age. couldn’t imagine a better compliment. Bill: One of the most important things coming years? I’m grateful to see the many regulars Dorian: How do you curate your events about Hekayeh is the curatorial each season at NYU? process. For Hekayeh, my primary role Bill: There’s so much energy happening who come week after week, finding is curating the curators - an Emirati now with new venues opening like their tribe here at The Arts Center. Bill: I think a lot about the communities poetry expert Mohamed al Hashemi, Warehouse 421. Audiences are discovering unfamiliar forms of here - both at NYU Abu Dhabi, and a community based artist and event Dorian: Speaking of finding things, I the UAE in general. I decide what expression and ways of making art. I organizer Zari Jafri, an NYUAD poetry can’t seem to locate my wallet. Can you will resonate with audiences who are professor and artist Jill Magi, an NYUAD can’t wait for the Louvre, and then the find it in your gracious heart to pay varied in backgrounds, cultures and student, this year Nafi Mounkaila, Guggenheim and Sheikh Zayed National experiences. I look for artists who who performed last year, and you. Museum to open in Abu Dhabi. In Dubai the bill? want to do more than just show up Each curator nominates artists from we have Alserkal Avenue, Dubai Opera, and do a show. their own communities and aesthetic Cinema Akil and so on. I’d love to see Bill: *Stares blankly. www.feelyourtempo.com 7
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GAHR metal art studio - stainless steel gate A single image to portray beauty is enough. This amazing shot by@andyhaslamphoto is of the @dxb.sensitive @mustafaaliyanik_burunestetigi Galley Head Lighthouse in Rathbarry, Cork, Ireland Rahoofeh | Designer® | Design and implementation of Burun Estetiği (Rhinoplasty) Estetik Burun Cerrahisi @nytimestravel all kinds of decorations New York Times Travel We travel. And shoot. Nytimes. com
Good Morning For my wonderfull Followers Günaydın Amazing. By @juliatulub_art , give this artist a Mardin..Fotoğraf - Photo by: @c_graph Türkiye’m#HashTags#beat #beats #bestsong follow art_spotlight#art #arte #art_spotlight @mardingezi #bumpin#dubstep #favoritesong @art_spotlight Share your newly uploaded photos with @okantok_ ART | Love, Learn, Art #MagazineTAGI Nars Professional Make-Up Artist
@javi8martinez wishes you all a good morning from Girl from the Red Sea coast in #yemen. “Eevee was happy as a clam during our first voyage snowy Munich! |#MiaSanMia #FCBayern #Snow @ericlafforgue out in the truck camper! She can’t wait for the next #Winter#Martinez All pics are mine. Pro published in Nat Geo, Daily Mail, trip!!” #twitterweek#catsofinstagram @fcbayern Lonely Planet, Spiegel... Prints: |[email protected] | @cats_of_instagram Welcome to the official Instagram Account of FC Ambassador @SonyAlphawww.ericlafforgue.com It’s #TwitterWeek!: Follow us on Twitter & send us (@) Bayern München. fcb.de/home your ONE best cat video OR photo for a chance to be featured! twitter.com/catsofinstagram In Support of The UAE’s Year of Culture
Reading and Writing Competition Spring 2017
WHAT IS FLASH FICTION? The Word document should include: The Deadline Flash Fiction is a unique genre of • A Cover page with the following Deadline is 30th of January, 2017 by storytelling that happens quickly, in a details: Title of the story, Author, 23hrs 59mins. flash. It is a very short, imagined story Address, Email Address, Phone that instills a sense of surprise, or Number THE PROCESS tension, or mystery, or drama, or all of 16 Writers will be chosen as finalists to • Story should not exceed 750 words, these and then. . .it’s over. read their work in a public venue. not including title and cover page. THE RULES Any submissions over 750 words will THE AWARDS be disqualified. In 750 words or less, produce a well- Two awards will be given out at the end crafted piece of Flash Fiction (i.e., Short • Font Size is 12 and Font Face should of the evening: Story) with the theme: Culture be Times New Roman
Email your submissions to One prize for Best Story and One Prize Submissions should be in English and [email protected] with for Best Dramatic Reading should be sent as a WORD document. the subject: Flash Fiction One submission per writer.
Email your submissions to [email protected] with the subject: FLASH FICTION
Competition Sponsored by: Competition Organized by: www.feelyourtempo.com 9 in the cinemas now showing this month Tempo’s movie buffs came together and discovered this month’s latest flicks in the Gulf.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Bad Santa 2 GENRE: Sci-Fi, Adventure GENRE: Comedy TEMPO PREDICTION: TEMPO PREDICTION:
The galactic rebellion makes a risky move to steal the plans It’s been thirteen years since their last escapade, and now for the legendary ‘Death Star’. Enlisting the help of a skilled the team has their sights on a Chicago charity. It seems like soldier and criminal named Jyn Erso, a master swordsman, the perfect heist until Willie meets an unexpected partner and non-allied forces, her team set the stage for the original in crime in his mother. Star Wars trilogy. This movie gives the fans a chance to see the story behind the Empire. THE GOSSIP: Although Billy Bob Thornton plays the son of Kathy Bates, he is really only seven years younger than her. THE GOSSIP: This will be the 3rd film in the Star Wars Directed by: Mark Waters franchise to be shot digitally, the last one being Star Wars Cast: Christina Hendricks, Billy Bob Thornton, Kathy Bates Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.
Directed by: Gareth Edwards Cast: Felicity Jones, Mads Mikkelsen, Ben Mendelsohn
Assassin’s Creed The Edge of Seventeen GENRE: Fantasy, Adventure GENRE: Comedy, Drama TEMPO PREDICTION: TEMPO PREDICTION:
Callum Lynch never thought himself to be out of the It’s hard growing up, especially in high school, but that’s ordinary, until Abstergo, a powerful corporation, snatches what friends are for. At least, that’s what eleventh-grader him off the street and hooks him up to an extraordinary Nadine thought before her best friend started dating her device called the Animus. With this technology, Abstergo brother. Now, she must overcome her own adolescent can unlock the genetic memories of Callum’s long-dead awkwardness and venture outside her comfort zone. ancestors, but they’re particularly interested in a Spanish assassin named Aguilar. THE GOSSIP: The film got its title from a Stevie Nicks song of the same name. THE GOSSIP: When filming the signature “leap of faith,” the only CGI used is seen in the background; Damien Walters Directed by: Kelly Fremon Craig had to free jump from a height of 125 feet to capture it. Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Haley Lu Richardson, Blake Jenner
Directed by: Justin Kurzel Cast: Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Irons
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tempo reviews Latest Film Reviews and Blu-Ray Releases By NOELLE POPE-GEORGE
War Dogs Catch it on Blu-Ray: Star Trek Beyond
Based on an insane true story, War Dogs documents the When it comes to Star Trek, there are so many tale of two best friends whose get-rich-quick scheme different routes to take. Perhaps you enjoyed The actually worked… except that it was massively illegal. Next Generation, or are a stickler for the originals… While the war in Iraq was still raging, David Packouz or you preferred the different, yet quirky Deep (Miles Teller) runs into an old friend from Junior High, Space Nine. But no matter where your allegiance Efraim Diveroli (Jonah Hill). Efraim convinces David lies, there’s something to be said about the newest to join him in becoming international arms dealers, addition to the beloved sci-fi franchise. Taking supplying weapons to the American military and place after the events of Star Trek: Into Darkness, splitting the comically large payments they reaped the film drops the Enterprise crew into a seemingly in return. At first their little project takes off without straightforward rescue mission. However, their quest consequence, until they become blinded by their own quickly turns sour when the starship is ravaged, greed. When they stumble upon a contract offering 300 and the crew barely escapes the wreckage with million dollars in exchange for 100 million bullets to arm their lives. However, in the confusion, they end up American forces in Afghanistan, the pair eagerly jumps separated, some lost on the strange planet while on the opportunity. However, the deal quickly turns sour others are held captive by Krall (Idris Elba), In their when every conceivable thing that could go wrong... attempt to escape and piece together what went ends up going wrong. wrong, the crew finds themselves trapped in a galactic battle that could determine the fate of the War Dogs is an interesting take on the thrilling story of David Packouz and Efraim whole of Starfleet. Diveroli. For one thing, it’s a dramatic comedy - emphasis on ‘comedy’. The contrast that this genre choice placed on the film offers quite a distinctive viewing If you’re a self-proclaimed “Trekkie,” then you’ll love this new spin on the series! experience. Between nail-biting suspense, you’ll be giggling at the clever humour. The plot keeps you guessing, with unexpected turns around every corner. The This balance makes for a movie that unexpectedly sucks you in, and before you characters are expertly developed, making it all too easy to cheer them on and know it, you’re glued to your screen, waiting on the edge of your seat for what become invested in their struggles and triumphs. The perfectly placed comic happens next. You know that what David and Efraim are doing is wrong, but for the duration of the film you may find yourself in their corner regardless, hoping relief keeps audiences laughing, and adds a bit more fun to the whole experience. they won’t get caught, wishing that their deal is successful. For the film industry, Plus it’s a wonderful choice for a family movie night, with classic Star Trek basing a movie on a true story is a bargain, as they often get a poor reception, but wackiness and valuable life lessons about the importance of companionship, War Dogs knocked it out of the park. A must-see for any fan of the crime genre. unity and loyalty sprinkled throughout. 10 www.feelyourtempo.com
tempo music COMPILed by Vera Rosales
TOP10 Rockabye By Your Side > songs in the uae Clean Bandit Feat. Sean >Jonas Blue Feat. RAYE 1 Paul & Anne Marie 8
Lyrics: “She just wants a life for her Lyrics: “Scattered hearts, broken glass, baby, all on her own, no one will come, I don’t feel a thing, ‘cause I’m frozen in she’s got to save him…” time, when you’re next to me…”
Setting Fires Black Beatles Fake Love All Night 2 > The Chainsmokers Feat. XYLO 4 > Rae Sremmurd 6 > Drake 9 > The Vamps & Matoma
Lyrics: “I’ve been looking for answers I Lyrics: :“15 hundred on my feet, I’m tryna Lyrics:: “Yeah, I know they wanna take Lyrics: “Let’s dance until we die, nobody’s don’t want to hear, chest to chest with kill these haters, I got haters when I was my place, I can tell that love is fake, I going home tonight, this kiss could be our you, I’m staring into a mirror…” broke, I’m rich, I still got haters…” don’t trust a word you say…” last, come on and raise your glass…”
Shout Out to My Ex So Good Don’t Wanna Know I Got You 3 > Little Mix 5 >Louisa Johnson 7 > Maroon 5 Feat. Kendrick Lamar 10 >Bebe Rexha Lyrics: : “Guess I should say thank you, for Lyrics: “Living out the best years, so keep Lyrics: “I hear it from this one, I hear it from Lyrics: “I got you, don’t have to be so the “hate you’s” and the tattoos, oh baby, on toasting shots, cheers, people know it that one, that you got someone new guarded, let’s finish what we started, I’m cool by the way…” feels, so good…” yeah, I see but don’t believe it…” it’s all I ever wanted…” www.feelyourtempo.com 11
album spotlight By Vera Rosales | @verarosales
Four Fine Sounds in 2016
Musicians never fail to surprise us with their innovations, and this past year made its mark as a turning point for fresh sounds. The electronic dance genre recorded massive stats of singles being streamed and downloaded. Check out here some of this year’s album must-haves…
HAVE A LOT OF FUN FEEL EMPOWERED with with DNCE’s Debut Album Glory Days by Little Mix
After the success of the Jonas Brothers, UK’s pop pride has finally released their forever frontman Joe Jonas makes an anticipated fourth album, and the result is incredible comeback to the music scene a mix of girl power realness from the vocal along with his talented herd – Jinjoo Lee prowess of members Jesy, Jade, Perrie and on guitar, Cole Whittle on bass and Jack Leigh-Anne. Audibly mature in execution, Lawless on drums. Their vision for the funk the X-Factor alumni continue to live up to & pop rock genre delivers a fun album that expectations and say this is their best packs everything but serious vibe. work yet.
Popular Singles: ‘Cake by the Ocean’, Popular Singles: ‘Shout Out to My Ex’ and ‘Toothbrush’ and ‘Body Moves’ ‘F.U.’ Notable Tracks: ‘Doctor You’, ‘Pay My Rent’, Notable Tracks: ‘Touch’, ‘Power’, ‘Nobody ‘Be Mean’ and ‘Almost’ Like You’ and ‘No More Sad Songs’
SIT BACK & RELAX TRAVEL BACK IN TIME with with Kungs’ Layers 24K Magic by Bruno Mars
After the success of ‘This Girl’, the up and Nine tracks of feel good music, care of coming French DJ is making his mark master composer Bruno Mars. What’s not in the electronic dance genre with work to like?! The album reminds us of the good that showcases the vitality of traditional ol’ days of music during the late 80’s to 90’s instruments. The album features stunning era and is a spinoff of the popular Uptown collaborations with underrated artists Funk theme. This album exemplifies an era who deserve some recognition. A chill but where electronic claimed the front seat. meaningful compilation that could be the soundtrack of the best days of your life. Popular Singles: ‘24K Magic’ and ‘Versace on the Floor’ Popular Singles: ‘This Girl’ and ‘I Feel So Notable Tracks: ‘Chunky’ Bad’ Notable Tracks: ‘Melody’ Feat. Luke Pritchard, ‘Freedom’ Feat. Wolfgang, ‘Bangalore Streets’ Feat. Freia and ‘Trust’ Feat. Rae Morris 12 www.feelyourtempo.com
TEMPO EVENTS What’s Hot? What’s Cool? Here’s a list of events for the whole family!
Stephan Moccio: Solo Piano Recital
December 12, 2016 Al Jahili Fort, Abu Dhabi World-renowned pianist Stephan Moccio is making his first ever visit to the Middle East to play some of his original piano pieces that earned him a gold certification. Fans of all genres of music are sure to love his unique mix of all forms of sound.
Al Dhafra Festival 2016
December 13-29, 2016 Madinat Zayed, Al Gharbia
Set to be the biggest event in the history of the festival, this year’s Al Dhafra will promote environmental and cultural heritage by showcasing a number of events, including the largest heritage souq in the Western Region, a Children’s Village to teach children about UAE heritage, and a camel beauty competition.
Abu Dhabi Food Festival December 5-23, 2016 Emirate Wide, Abu Dhabi Taking place in malls across the Emirate, this food festival will include events such as cooking demonstrations and shows, chocolate carving demonstrations, a pastry showcase and fruit and vegetable carvings, just to name a few. For kids, there’s also the “Kitchen Mission” events, which will give them a chance to meet their favourite Nickelodeon characters, who will teach them basic cooking skills. Operation Smile: Fly a Kite Festival 16 December A MENA Perspective on Visual Saadiyat Publich Beach Communication Operation Smile will be hosting a fun-filled fundraising event for families this December. December 14, 2016 Their annual “Fly a Kite” Festival gathers Warehouse 421, Abu Dhabi families from different parts of Abu Dhabi and the UAE together to get their very This talk will focus on the own kites to fly in support of Operation contemporary practices in Smile’s on-going charitable surgeries for visual communication by using various examples from kids. Operation Smile is an international across the MENA region and children’s medical charity which provides discussing the influence it has free corrective surgery for children born with in modern-day culture. cleft lip and cleft palate.
Tempo UAE (Group) TempoBeat (Group) Feel Your Tempo (Page) @tempoplanet @feelyourtempo www.feelyourtempo.com 13
music news By Jae Franklin | @jaefranklin
Inspirational “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar
“We gon’ be alright / Songs to Get Can you hear me? / Can you feel me? / We gon’ be alright.”
Listening to “Alright” will help You Ready you see that no matter that you’re going through, you’re not alone. It’s up to us to stay positive and remain hopeful that tomorrow will be better than the day before it. Don’t for 2017 let the bad times keep you down. We all have something in common: We’ll all be 5celebrating 2017 in a few weeks. Why not start the new year with songs that will encourage and inspire you for the next chapter of your life? Here are five amazing hit songs that will help you evolve into the best version of yourself in 2017.
“Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
“Live your life with “I’m waking up, I feel it arms wide open / in my bones / Enough Today is where your to make my systems book begins. “ blow / Welcome to the new age, to the Positivity is contagious. new age.” “Unwritten” is one of those rare songs that is all If you listen to this song about new beginnings and every morning, your happiness. The song is just as adrenaline will start pumping catchy as it is relatable. and nothing will be able to steal your joy. You’ll feel empowered every day.
“Wake Me Up” by Avicii featuring Aloe Blacc “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly
“Life’s a game made for “If I can see it / Then I can everyone / And love is do it / If I just believe it the prize.” / There’s nothing to it / I believe I can fly / I believe Make it your personal mission I can touch the sky.” next year to become happier wherever you are in life. Remember when you started that Embrace the hard times too. new project? It was so much fun That will make the good to start, but then the process times even better. Try to live became laborious? In life, nothing without regrets and allow life is ever going to be as smooth to guide you. as we hoped. Always remember what motivated you to get started. Keep that enthusiasm and strive to reach your goals. Let this be your motto for 2017: New year, New Me! Don’t forget to be the change you want to see. Only you have the power to change your mindset and stay empowered. 14 www.feelyourtempo.com
Blue Print PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIKITH NATH | INSTAGRAM: @NSQUAREDSTUDIOS
Cristina Filip AGE: 30 PROFESSION: Freelance make-up artist/model NATIONALITY: Romanian Instagram: @cryssoy Fashion Statement: “If loving fashion is a crime, I play guilty!!”
Your personal style: Funky and Easy Favourite recent purchase: Gucci Dionysus Handbag Does UAE have style? Yes. Fashion is such a mode of personal communication; you can tell someone’s personality and character just by the way they dress. You can notice different styles all around the city. Fashion pet peeves: Designer bags matched with flip flops ! Flip flops are strictly for the beach! COOL & FUN SATURDAYS BOOTCAMP FOR SCHOOL-SMART KIDS! New sessionsin December! starting PROJECT MATH +CODING Grades 3 to 6 Understand Concepts | Problem Solving | Math Application Troubleshooting | Practice, Practice & Practice 2 Hour Sessions. Single or 4-session packages. Call: 050 616 2443
MoxieZone @ BrandMoxie | #307 twofour54, Park Rotana Complex | Abu Dhabi VOX POP
Hamad Abdulla Alshamsi Age: 19 Profession: Student
Ahmed Ibrahim Alali “The UAE is my home and the source of my Hammed Naseer Al Hosani Age: 29 safety. My only wish for the UAE is that it stays Age: 20 Profession: Pilot Profession: ADNOC Engineer safe every year.” “The UAE is the most comfortable “My country is my security. place for me; it is where I come from. I I wish it peace wish that the UAE becomes known as for a long time.” the best country in the world.” Tempo presents... A DEDICATION TO THE NATION
On occasion of the UAE’s National Day, we Fatima Albuainain Age: 21 chatted with a few Emiratis and Profession: Student Waleed Mohammed Al Obaidli asked two simple questions: Age: 30 What does the UAE mean to you? Profession: Abu Dhabi Police “The UAE is my home, and I don’t mean the place where I live in, but it’s the feeling What do you wish for UAE in “I see the UAE as a big united family itself. These days you can find danger in the future? – my family. My wish for the UAE is to other parts of the globe, but thanks to Allah export local talent to the world, and be and our rulers, we are one of the safest represented in international sport.” countries. I wish it all the best, I wish it more development, and may Allah protect the UAE from all evil.”
Name: Alia Alshmaily Age: 23 Shaikha Alqasimi Name: Aisha Alzaabi Profession: Student Age: 25 Age: 23 Profession: Business Development Executive in Profession: Student “The UAE is like the lottery: it’s Sajaya; Young Ladies of Sharjah precious and unique and guess what? I “The UAE is everything to me: I am very am the lucky winner. I am very thankful “The UAE means everything to me. I am proud of how we developed so much in and proud to be an Emirati. I wish it the happy and glad to be an Emirati citizen! 45 years. God bless our rulers. I wish best, and even more development I wish it greater success, and I hope that the UAE all the best. Please take it easy and success. with the restaurants, though, as they ” God keeps our country safe always.” are everywhere” There is no glory without the glory of the country and its citizens. We have to be proud of our forefathers, who were able to face the harshness of life with a strong will and dedication to shape a better collective future.
- HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
A DEDICATION TO THE NATION FROM THE TEMPO FAMILY A creative incubation space for startups.
What will I get from LaunchPad? • A hot desk. (non-assigned space) JOIN US! • Networking with like-minded entrepreneurs. Limited spaces available. • Fluid space for brainstorming. • Member rates for space rental for your events. WANT TO SEE THE SPACE? • A free consultation chat with the founder of Tamakkan. • Access to the community pantry. Call Neil at 02-4918625 to book a time What are the extras? • Free entrepreneurship seminars! You can attend The Early Bird Rates Tamakkan sessions held in the same space, which focus on the fundamentals of business, funding, marketing, social media, management and innovation. Half Day • Exposure in Tempo magazine (which has a print run of Timings from 9am to 2pm (Sunday to Thursday) 45,000 in Abu Dhabi) and in www.feelyourtempo.com Dh 380 per week | Dh 1,300 per month • Preferential rates in branding, marketing etc. through or Dh 12,000 for the year tamakkan. (for SMEs)
The Location Full Day The location is at BrandMoxie in twofour54, a cool Timings from 9am to 5pm (Sunday to Thursday) environment that accelerates your success and amplifies Dh 450 per week | Dh 1,500 per month the impact of your work. or Dh 15,000 for the year
Want more info? Email: [email protected] www.feelyourtempo.com 19
The Epicurean BY LANA NASEER | INSTAGRAM: @14n4n A Family’s Cooking Legacy
“The excitement, romance and flavour to the dishes that were involvement. I book the date with mother, who was an ingenious chaos of the cooking world passed down to me from my her months in advance to make maamoul maker. People used were still mysterious, though mother because of the beautiful sure she presides over the process to say “you could pick her one intoxicating. I always felt a little stories they were associated as general, just as my great maamoul from all the maamoul off center, a little left behind, with. I think of self-discovery and grandmother did for her. on offer.” Her maamoul stood out but always found my calling in creativity every time I remake my not only because of its syrupy cooking. I started experimenting mother’s tuna salad sandwich My mother shows up at my rosewater emulsion, but because by preparing dishes cooked in an recipe: finely diced green peppers, kitchen with the ingredients that of its almond filling - a total empty tuna can over a self-made celery, red onions and light mayo no-one is allowed to purchase departure from the expected. My fire and then eating it.” spread on toasted brown bread except her. She makes sure the mother still reminisces about her slices. I think of one of her quotes: almonds, semolina flour and rose childhood, “the trays were filled This is how my mother’s “Taste is a culmination of an water are of the highest quality, with Easter delicacies arranged on childhood diary begins. I read experience, a moment, a love, a and she brings with her my great the table, and some on the floor, awaiting to be sent to the baker about her heart tugging memories person and it can never exist in grandmother’s tweezers, which in the late afternoon because the and how she compiled her the absolute, but rather in are essential to leave pretty temperature in the ovens would mother’s recipes. She writes about the soul.” designs on the biscuits. have subsided by then, after the wanting to capture the colours, heated workload of the day.” aromas, textures and tastes of Another dish and activity that I follow her around the kitchen like my Teta’s (grandmother) dishes. resonates with my mother’s a lost puppy, observing and taking She makes sure that her maamoul This was in a book that was going upbringing is maamoul. A typical notes. I taste every chance I get looks exactly like her own Teta’s: to be a gift for the family for Middle Eastern biscuit, maamoul is because her recipe is scribbled in slightly plump with rosewater Christmas and I agreed to help made at special occasions such as a code that only she can decipher. nectar oozing outside every her bring it to fruition. Easter or Eid out of semolina flour The key to recreating it is through biscuit and forming a caramelized filled with either dates, pistachios my taste buds. but chewy crust. She says, “it The book project opened my or walnuts. I wouldn’t dream of might have been offensive to the eyes to my own fascination with venturing into the making of My mother learned the maamoul eye, but it was a feast to the cooking. It added meaning and maamoul without my mother’s code from my great grand taste buds!” 20 www.feelyourtempo.com
Game Hedz By Blakniss | @audioanimator | Original game head from Atari to X-Box! Cosplays and Gift Ideas for Game Hedz!
The Cons: Ani:me & Popcon The debut of Ani:me Abu Dhabi seemed to go well with a slew of famous guests headlined by legendary artist Yoshitaka Anamo who confessed he now found Anime ‘boring’ and was trying new things, specifically sculpture.
Locally based cosplayer, Sumi, won the opportunity to represent the UAE at the World Cosplay Summit in Japan. See on our Facebook page a chat with accomplished voice actor Todd Haberkorn, voice of Death the Kid (Soul Eater).
Major celebrity guests like Giuliana Rancic (Fashion Police) Theo Rossi (Luke Cage, Sons of Anarchy) weren’t enough to bring the crowds to the fashion-focused Popcon. Empty seats seemed to be the result of a remote location (Dubai Outlet Mall) and last minute planning. Gifts for your Game Hedz
The PS4 Pro. It has 4K. Don’t ask just get it.
The HP Omen. It’s a gaming laptop for PC gamers that comes with loads of accessories including headphones, mouse and more. Firewatch and Overwatch. If they don’t have them already. They both featured highly in this year’s gaming awards.
Dishonoured 2. The first was good. The second seems even better .
Telltale Games’ Batman. A downloadable episodic game. They’d appreciate a season pass (all episodes paid for in advance).
Subscriptions. PlayStation Plus or XBox Live.
Compliments of the season, and make sure you spend it with the givers and not just the gifts!!
22 www.feelyourtempo.com TEMPO TALKS BOOKS Librarians’ Lounge By Sana Ashraf | @sanaalikespie BY VANESSA MIDDLETON
Miral by Rula Jebreal Relearning Learning:
shown through a series of unfortunate Emerging Trends in Education events, involving arrest, torture, and worse.
Although many of the events of the story are based on historical events, (Hind al-Husseini has her own Wikipedia page), the novel remains a work of fiction. The strong female characters act as role models: they fight for their rights, for what they believe in, and let their ‘stubbornness’ fuel them to achieve their goals.
Jebreal reminds us that within any conflict, all people suffer. We are reminded that war is not the desire of anyone, and that conflicts can arise even within families – not just enemies – and that indeed ‘enemies’ can be Translated from Italian, the closest of friends and lovers (as Some technological trends may spaces to integrating new equipment is reflected through Miral and her seem far-fetched now but are and tools. this is a work of fiction cousin). Despite war being against the that shows Jebreal’s very nature of humanity, in the end likely to happen within the next Components such as user experience, journalistic side and her it is society that fights against them. five years. According to a report space and resources are critical to objective focus on events Jebreal’s objective is to promote effective integration of technology into by the New Media Consortium’s learning spaces. Libraries play a key peace by reminding us that in the face rather than on personal Horizon, big research data, role as knowledge cultivators who can of hardship we must fight, take action, insight. In this work she open access to scholarly output, contribute to the further development of tries to take a neutral and stand strong. our knowledge economy through creativity redesigning learning spaces and innovation. position, which is not easy as well as cross-institution given that she, like the collaboration are all relevant The Tempo library recommends the protagonist, grew up in an orphanage, and that the for the learning communities following reading resources: and early adopters may be events are “based on a The report is available for free online at the true story”. able to implement some of the following website: https://www.nmc.org/ technologies within the next nmc-horizon/ The novel depicts the robbed three to five years. childhoods of Palestinian children 2016 Higher Education report: https://www. nmc.org/publication/nmc-horizon-report- One of the ideas presented in the report after 1948, and the selflessness 2016-higher-education-edition/ of Hend, a woman who dedicates involves ‘flipped’ classrooms where the her life for the betterment of student plays a bigger role in the learning 2016 K-12 Education report: https://www. Palestinian girls who have been process. This process occurs through the nmc.org/publication/nmc-cosn-horizon- redesigning of the curriculum to encourage report-2016-k-12-edition/ “marginalized”. She builds them students to think critically. an orphanage and stays single 2015 Academic & Research Libraries report: to dedicate all her time to the Some mainstream tech trends have https://www.nmc.org/publication/nmc- children. We read about her become widespread through a variety of horizon-report-2015-library-edition/ struggle to finance the project, and research and practical models. The learning the underlying theme of hope. community drives the priority of a given 2016 Museum report: https://www.nmc. technology and how it is integrated within org/publication/nmc-horizon-report-2016- Jibreal maintains a neutral tone their learning environment. One of the ways museum-edition/ throughout the novel, emphasizing it is doing this is by redesigning learning that sides are irrelevant because everyone suffers: be it the Jewish daughter of a general or a Palestinian child in the orphanage.
The protagonist of the book Miral, attends Hend’s orphanage. She is a rebellious young woman Book Recommendation: who, guided by her passion and values, decides to fights and Wedding Song by eventually pays the ultimate price. Naguib Mahfouz She represents the patriotism of Palestinians, and the face Written by a Nobel Prize winner, of resistance. She represents this is an entertaining novel that the struggle of women living in presents events through four different Palestine who not only suffer due perspective in four chapters, leaving to the occupation, but also to the the reader to decide what misogyny of their own culture, as really transpired. www.feelyourtempo.com 23
FLASH FICTION IS A STYLE OF LITERATURE CHARACTERIZED BY BREVITY: WITH THE STANDARD BEING A STORY OF UNDER 1000 WORDS. flash fiction SEND US YOUR STORIES TO: [email protected]
UAE Fairytales & Fables 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.
By Diego Sandoval For the past several years, the UAE Fairytales & Fables initiative has been actively working on an Emirati cultural literacy project to promote new and original fairytales and fables highlighting New York University Abu Dhabi the rich culture and heritage of the United Arab Emirates. This collection of stories penned and Iris illustrated by Emirati writers and artists re-introduce 25 cultural icons from the folkloric traditions of the UAE to residents of this land of many blessings and beyond. I met Iris in the last day of In those next months we spoke like never seventh grade, right before I before despite our distance. Then Christmas We are delighted to share these tales that feature the storytelling tradition of the Emirates and key came, [Hi Iris, Merry Christmas!] [Hi Diego, aspects of Emirati culture and heritage to a new generation of readers and we hope you enjoy these moved to a different school. this is Iris’s sister again, can’t really talk right ancient characters from the past as they traverse the cultural developments of the 21st century. She ran towards me yelling now there has just been an accident and we from across the hallway, “I now think Iris may be in a coma, please try not to we haven’t spoken much but I message this phone for the meanwhile, we will get back to everyone as soon as we hear hope to see you soon after the good news.] I called, texted, nothing. I was break!” I told her that might furious. Helpless. not happen, since I was moving And scared. schools. That didn’t stop her from introducing herself to My parents witnessed my stress. They said I me. “Doesn’t matter, we’re should forget her. I’ll be honest, with all this confusion, I did try to forget her. So I gave best friends already,” and she up on trying to hear back from her sister. gave me a big hug and as she walked away she turned and Months later I had a reunion with my seventh grade friends. We walked along the said, “We’re hanging out this mall sharing stories when suddenly they summer okay?” That’s the started rushing into a mattress store and in beginning of a friendship I hold my confusion, I follow them as they all start “Fadhel very dearly in memory. Despite to hide behind different beds. discovered that he wanted our distance, we would go to I’m kneeling next to Alexandra, asking her to to meet some the beach together. We saw our explain what we were hiding from. I looked favourite band live together. around the mattress store and there she foxes and was surprised when We did many things that was. Iris! With her parents. I try to stand up at the sight of my presumably dead friend some showed summer and she was right, we but Alexandra pulls me back down and tells up.” were already best friends. me. “Diego, there is something you should know. Iris is schizophrenic. She is crazy. I After summer, I started to lose know you were friends. But you have to let communication with Iris. As I expected, we her go.” I stared back at her blankly. How each started to drift off to our own realities could you say that, Iris is not crazy, she has and a week of not talking quickly turned been hurt twice! “She lied to you, Diego. into a month, a month turned into a year, Everyone knows she has been physically and Iris was quite frankly entering the abyss Fadhel and the Fox okay and at home school since you left of my memory, until the following June that because the school said she could be a is. I got a text from her phone. Fatima Fadhel Saqer Fadhel Al Mehairbi – ID: 201216303 threat to us. She was never in a coma; she was never in an accident. Let her go.” [ Hi Diego, this is Iris’s sister. I’m sorry to (ILLUSTRATOR) Khulood Ghuloom Mohamed Hassan Al Janahi tell you this, but I know you two were close, I felt my head getting lighter, my hands unfortunately, Iris is in a coma due to a started to shake, this can’t be happening. recent car accident.] I frantically called, I Once upon a time there was a As he was hiding, the old man’s features sent voicemails, and I exploded the phone I couldn’t sleep that night. I stayed up city in the middle of the forest, began to change into a fox. Fadhel was with messages demanding that I get looking at our photos, her facebook so frightened and began to cry. The information of which hospital I could find where an old man and a boy pictures, she can’t be crazy I thought. Why old man turned around and was a fox. her at. would she invent those horrible things? named Fadhel lived. One night He went and attacked the other foxes, they went to the forest where I heard nothing from anybody, including As I scrolled, I noticed something strange. chasing them away. The old man then friends about her whereabouts, for the the old man was telling stories changed form again, back to his old self. longest three weeks of my life, when It was a beautiful photo, but there was to Fadhel and one of these Fadhel was so frightened he wanted to suddenly; I get a text from her phone again. something deeply wrong with this particular run away. But the old man stopped him [Hi Diego, Its Iris. I’m sorry for the stress family photo. stories was about a fox. It was a and said, “don’t be afraid my boy, I will you have been feeling. I am fine now.] frightening tale, when suddenly tell you the truth.” And started to tell him [IRIS, youre okay?! What happened?! I tried That’s when I realized. they heard a strange sound, but so hard to know where I could see you, I his life story. thought I could never see you again.] [I She never had a sister. didn’t pay it any attention. know Diego, I am sorry. I was in a coma, and “When I was a child, my father brought thank God, the doctors say I will be okay if I Iris lives on, but in my mind, I lost my best The old man continued to tell his story, me to the forest to hunt deer. When we rest for the next few months.] friend that day. describing the fox’s smaller compact arrived to the forest, my father fought shape, its long ears and the keen eyes with one of the foxes and was eaten in of a predator that glow in the dark of front of me and I couldn’t do anything the night. Fadhel’s facial expressions but cry. showed fear but the old man didn’t stop describing the fox. I ran away in rage, wishing to become a fox, to take revenge on the animal that After a while they saw something killed my father. The Lord responded to light up around them but the old man my wish. I could turn into a powerful fox,” continued talking. Fadhel discovered said the old man. that he wanted to meet some foxes and was surprised when some showed up. “Fadhel it’s a strange story but life is Fadhel hid behind the man as he noted okay now that my wish has come true. the differences in the Arabian foxes from People call me Abu Al Les, because I the red foxes he’d seen on the have the same name as that fighting nature channel. spirit that never gave up.” 24 www.feelyourtempo.com
Shutterbug By Abu Dhabi Photographers Indoor Beauty Portraits and Night Cityscape Photography THE GROUP: ABU DHABI PHOTOGRAPHERS
NOTE: ADP hosted indoor beauty portrait sessions to help members understand different lighting techniques using saltboxes and beauty dishes. We also hosted a sunset and night photography meetup at the breakwater of Abu Dhabi. About 25 members experienced the sunset, and learned long exposure photography techniques to capture beautiful landscapes.
ABOUT: Abu Dhabi Photographers is a group of photography enthusiasts who meet regularly to capture beautiful shots and to share knowledge and experiences. The group is managed by BrandMoxie.
INDOOR BEAUTY PORTRAITS PHOTOGRAPHER: Mukund Kaduskar
MODEL: Sabina Cîmpeanu (Romania) PHOTOGRAPHER: Shahid Saeed
SUNSET & NIGHT CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHER: Rizwana Shahid
PHOTOGRAPHER: Shahid Saeed PHOTOGRAPHER: Sujith Prasad www.feelyourtempo.com 25 Youth Talk parental guide
By Jaffar Mahmoud | [email protected] By Heather Long Vandevoorde, Ph.D. | @hvdvoorde How Being “Authentic” Five Reasons Students Makes You Vulnerable – Cheat in their Exams And Not in a Bad Way! (and How to Nip it in the Bud)
Telling someone to be “authentic” underneath the surface…even if that is probably one of the least means that people might be able to authentic things you can say. hurt you. You don’t have to go very far to watch a video, read an article, Easier said than done, right? After or have someone tell you that all, we are all humans, and that means we are naturally wired to authenticity is the real key to protect ourselves and avoid pain. happiness. Or maybe you’re like The problem is that when it comes me and you’ve realized that the to protecting yourself from being authentic version of yourself isn’t vulnerable, it often means that we all that interesting, and it might are concealing our real feelings and be better to imitate someone a our true selves. So how can we be bit cooler and “edgier”. It seems authentic, without allowing ourselves there is some confusion about to be hurt? Well, the bad news is that being authentic. After all, nobody you can’t, the good news is that over time it will get easier. smiles in the mirror before school I was told of a recent incident where which makes the temptation to cheat or work and says, “I can’t wait a friend’s kids were embroiled in a overwhelming. In school, students sometimes to be inauthentic today”. So, the cheating scandal that shook their middle • Students cheat when they are misbehave not because they want to starting point: defining what it school. It seems that a few students stressed. Too many tests in a short means to be authentic. be disruptive, but because they want to conceal that they don’t understand witnessed others using electronic period of time, pressure to get into a devices to look up answers to the test good university, and high expectations First let’s start off with what the subject. In a situation like this, questions - unbeknownst to the teacher. authenticity is not. A lot of the being authentic would be admitting from parents are all causes of stress. time people think that they’re to yourself and the teacher that you The witnesses, my friend’s kids included, I will admit this gave me pause for being authentic because they are “feel inferior to the other students, were disgusted with their classmates thought. My husband and I have high confrontational, or because they and maybe the material is too difficult and informed the teacher. This started a expectations of our kids. As parents, say what is on their mind. In the for you to understand”. This isn’t firestorm between the alleged-cheaters we must skate the fine line between words of Mike Robbins, author and being weak, it’s letting people know and the suspected-snitches. They hurled gentle pressure on our kids to do their speaker, you have to ask yourself “am how you feel, and by doing that they accusations and threats at each other best in school and too much pressure I being authentic, or am I just being can actually give you some guidance. via Snapchat, which turned the situation to excel. obnoxious?” It is true that saying In order for this to happen you need into a cyber bullying incident. It was a • Many kids succumb to peer pressure what is on your mind is part of being to be willing to be vulnerable. hot mess for parents and school officials authentic, but it’s only one piece of the to cheat. If “everyone is doing it,” they to navigate. feel like goody two-shoes if they do puzzle. After all, we still need to have Okay, the last example was pretty go to classes, have jobs, and maintain convenient, but what happens not follow. relationships, so saying whatever when people don’t care, or worse, Trying to turn a negative to a positive, • Parents should regularly monitor idea pops into your head without when they use your vulnerability I used this as a teaching moment with grades and try to help when their considering how it impacts others can against you? Well, the reality is that my own kids. Luckily mine agreed right child is falling behind in a subject. get you into a lot of trouble. That’s this is something we all encounter away that the snitches were in the right Keeping the lines of communication why asking yourself if you’re just being in life, and as you get older you to report the cheaters. They believe open alleviates the buildup of pressure obnoxious is such a critical question, will understand to not let these whole-heartedly that cheating is not that can lead to the need to cheat. because if you’re unpleasant, rude, or people affect you too deeply. In my fair to those who study. So then the potentially harmful to people around experience, whether it is amongst you, without providing any real positive conversation turned to why students I finished the research and conversation friends, colleagues, and employers, value, then it’s likely that you’re just cheat. We decided to do some research with my girls in a relatively frenzied state when you’re true to yourself and being obnoxious. to educate ourselves. This is what we of parental panic. I was wondering if I are honest with others, people will found: was doing enough, or even too much, naturally gravitate towards you. The reason that it’s such a challenge to discourage cheating. Ultimately to be authentic is because authenticity • Cheaters are generally kids who are The challenge of authenticity is trying experts seem to agree that the best is a consequence of being vulnerable. only focused on the grades. They are to find out what that actually means thing parents can do is lead by example. Another example that Mike Robbins not intellectually curious or interested for you. We live in a world where We can avoid cheating, lying and being uses to explain authenticity is that of in learning. the iceberg. We are all like icebergs in being authentic can often mean unscrupulous. Demonstrating integrity • As schools have implemented Bring that only a small portion of our true being outrageous and can border on goes a long way. Not that I am morally Your Own Device policies, cheating self is being revealed, whereas the rest being obnoxious. The reality is that corrupt, but suffice it to say that this is submerged underwater. If you want authenticity is all about being honest techniques have evolved to taking whole cheating-snitching ordeal have to be authentic, and show who you with yourself and not being afraid to photos, hidden Internet searches moved into first item priority on my New really are, then you need to be willing be vulnerable and speak about the and voice notes in earphones. Some Year’s Resolutions. to show people that part of you that is things that impact us deeply. teachers are giving tests online
Tempo UAE (Group) TempoBeat (Group) Feel Your Tempo (Page) @tempoplanet @feelyourtempo 26 www.feelyourtempo.com THE PASSION OF FILMMAKING: The Smovies: Season Five - #BornToChallenge
Vasilis Blioumis (third from left) receives the top prize together with his team for The Smovies Season 5: #BornToChallenge. To his right is Salah Yamout, Director of Sales and Marketing of Arabian Automobiles and Sana Bagersh, Founder of The Smovies.
The fifth season of The Smovies The first place spot went to Vasilis voice and format. We loved the level concluded in November Blioumis who captured the hearts of of enthusiasm and look forward to judges with a film on the challenges expanding the competition throughout with an exciting awards of a breast cancer patient in his film the region,” said Sana Bagersh, ceremony at Vox Cinemas in “Walking with you”. John Haddad’s founder of The Smovies and CEO Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. “As Always” won second place, of BrandMoxie. “We are particularly Participants, representatives and Muhammad Sarfaraz Ali’s “The appreciative of our strategic and judges flooded into the Expected” came third. partnership with VOX Cinemas and the incredible support we receive cinema to see the top 15 films Blioumis bagged the top prize which from our jury members and all our of the competition, themed is the opportunity to show his film in partners. It is important to recognize #BornToChallenge. The films VOX Cinema screens across the UAE, that community platforms such as were judged by a jury panel plus a Dh 5000 cash reward. Bliomis this can only exist and grow through of accomplished filmmakers announced during the event that he collaboration and shared vision.” would donate the prize to a breast and film professors, who cancer patient. The filmmakers talked to Tempo about meticulously critiqued each film their films, and gave advice to those on quality and outcome. “The theme was broad enough for the planning to participate in the filmmakers to experiment with style, next season!
Next Challenge: “Culture”
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st Place: Vasilis Blioumis – 1“Walking With You” The IDEA: We did a series of interviews for Native House of breast cancer survivors. The stories I heard were truly touching and inspirational to write a story. The title is very relevant to the core of the film. The patient doesn’t want to get out of her room so her husband has to find a way. I had a chat with Ali Al Sayed and Minna Liccione, accomplished actors based in Dubai, and brainstormed some ideas until we came out with the final output: “Walking with You.” I should also mention the terrific job that Sameer Antulay did as Director of Photography bringing to life the mood of the film. It is important to A screengrab of the winning film: “Walking With You” by Vasilis Blioumis Watch here: remember that filmmaking is all about teamwork!
The INSPIRATION: Winning is always a nice feeling. I doubt if someone will tell you that he was depressed . But especially for this little film it was important because we had the chance to support a breast cancer patient by donating our first prize. A little gesture can change the world and filmmaking has the power to deliver a powerful message whether consciously or subconsciously. A few of the members of The Smovies Jury The Smovies was held at VOX Cinemas at
together with Sana Bagersh. Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. About PASSION in Filmmaking: Go out and film. Today, filming is very affordable. It doesn’t matter if it is a video camera or phone. But you must always prepare your story - there is no point to film something that has no story. Filmmaking is about storytelling - if you are serious about it, then take some courses. It will probably open your eyes.
Second place winner: John Haddad for his film “As Third place winner: Muhammad Sarfaraz Ali for his film Always”. Accepting his prize in his stead was his “The Expected”. brother, George Haddad.
Filmmakers claimed their certificates of Participants of this season came to watch participation for this season. their films on the big screen. 28 www.feelyourtempo.com
How Music Brings out the Magic in You!
who has lived in the UAE and DJ’d for keeping that song accessible gives me This year has been peaceful yet more than a hundred events. a weird satisfaction. hectic. I have adjusted to my I like to listen to my listeners, whether ‘Music improves memory’ busy schedule as a DJ, MC, radio on the radio, a club, or even a corporate event. Although I entertain presenter, brand ambassador 24/7, playing commercial music… I Ok check this out. I don’t know if and media personality. have my own personal taste in music. you find this weird but sometimes I I love soulful music, underground hip tend to remember things because my hop and even rock. I listen to “good” subconscious relates a song to the music, regardless of whether its situation. I’m not just talking about charting or not. remembering where I kept my car But recently I had an epiphany. I ‘My favourite song is keys thanks to DJ Khaled. I’m talking realized how much I am defined by associated with an emotional about if I meet someone at an event music and how music has been my experience in my life’ (I meet an average of 20 new people work and life for almost six years. daily) and a song that I like plays in the ‘Music tells you a lot about My favourite song is Boys II Men’s background, my mind switches to the “Water Runs Dry”. It reminds me music. So next time you see me just pull someone’s personality’ of when I started out and lets me reminisce about my old days. It out your phone and play a song in the I am surrounded by commercial music reminds me how far I have come in background and I might at the radio station, and most of my my life. It is always on my phone, car remember you ;) sets at clubs are open format. All this or my USB. It’s funny how I might not defines me as a music entrepreneur even listen to it all the time. But just Instagram: @DJSaifOfficial
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30 www.feelyourtempo.com Time Capsule James Simmons
Age: 34 Profession: Event Organizer Nationality: American Motto: “Life is a marathon, enjoy the journey” Instagram: jsentertainment81
Most valued possession: My Car you would like to own: Deserves a big old thank You would most like to be most valued possession would Mercedes Benz E350 Cabriolet you: Too many to name. I’m stuck in an elevator with: have to be my laptop. It has all my grateful to have an amazing Warren Buffett. To be able to pick photos (memories), documents, A typical day in your life: circle of people around me. his brain would be an and just important information Organized chaos directed to amazing experience. stored on it. achieve a set goal. The craziest thing you have ever done: Skydiving If you could wake up Where you hang out most: Where you see yourself in Dubai. It was planned with a tomorrow in the body of If I’m not out at an event or new in 10 years: I believe your life group of friends and actually not someone else currently restaurant I’m pretty much a should get better with age; I see as scary as I thought it would be. living, you would pick: Barack home body chilling and watching myself being a better and wiser Obama. I would love to go through Netflix or Sports. person than I am today. Earliest memory: My earliest a day and experience his life and memory was when I was two or his thoughts. One thing you cannot live Your idea of peace: Being three years old and I would ask without: I would have to say surrounded by family and my parents and grandparents Current Last SONG my phone. My friends are always friends with good food, laughter a lot of questions growing up. I syndrome (LSS): the album asking me “can you live without and fun. Those moments in life was a very inquisitive child. that is in heavy rotation in my car your phone???” The answer is no! are priceless. is the new Common Album “Black If your life were a book it America Again” The person who inspires Goal in life: Live life to the would be called: Work Hard you the most: My dad and fullest with no regrets. to Achieve Your Goals If you could have personally I have a close relationship and witnessed one event in while I’m my own man he is Three things that today has To look good, you would history, it would be: Mohamed someone I aspire to be like. taught you: Work hard, have wear: I believe less is more so Ali vs. George Foreman in patience, and stick to your goals I would go with a classic blazer Zaire (1974) Five things you need for and you will ultimately and slacks, or a suit. survival: Smartphone, Apple TV, find success. Your idea of a perfect DSLR Camera, big screen TV and weekend: A city with great Jawbone Up2 Activity Tracker culture, food, and a beach.
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