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Wednesday, December 11, 2019 Rabia II 14, 1441 AH

Doha today: 210 - 270

COVER STORY

ENGROSSED: Valeria and Ashlee do classwork in a bus that is a school run by Yes We Can Mobile Schools, a project of the Yes We Can World Foundation, a nonprofit formed to support migrant children staying on Mexico’s northern border while they wait for US authorities to accept or deny their asylum applications in November in Tijuana, Mexico. The school began operating in July and serves about 45 students. Lessons on a bus In a converted bus in Tijuana, a school emerges for asylum-seekers. P4-6 2 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.47am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.10am Zuhr (noon) 11.28am Asr (afternoon) 2.26pm Maghreb (sunset) 4.46pm Isha (night) 6.16pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Pati Patni Aur Woh SYNOPSIS: Chintu Tyagi is an ordinary, middle class man DIRECTION: Mudassar Aziz who fi nds himself torn between his wife and another woman. CAST: Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, Ananya Panday THEATRE: Landmark

Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Le Mans ‘66 laws of physics and their own personal demons to build a Qatar Airways 40253374 DIRECTION: James Mangold revolutionary race car for Ford and challenge Ferrari at the 24 CAST: Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal Hours of Le Mans in 1966. SYNOPSIS: American car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles battle corporate interference, the THEATRES: Royal Plaza, Landmark, The Mall te Unqu uo ot Q “Optimism e is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confi dence.” – Helen Keller

Community Editor For movie timings and Kamran Rehmat further details please scan e-mail: [email protected] the QR code above with your Telephone: 44466405 mobile phone camera or visit qatarcinemas.com Fax: 44350474 Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

After School Activities WHERE: Atelier WHEN: Ongoing Music and arts activities for students taking place after they fi nish their day in school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 years old after school hours.

Hobby Classes WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art Centre WHEN: Saturday – Friday Mamangam is an art and performance Winter School gor Grade IX-XII centre started with a vision of spreading Students our knowledge, interests and experience in WHERE: Inspire Training Academy, various disciplines in arts across diff erent Mughal-e-Azam Grand Musical more than 100 pieces from across Qatar Najma St. countries for children and adults. WHERE: Al Mayassa Theatre, QNCC Museums’ (QM) collections, including many WHEN: December 25 – 29 Mamangam has become the favourite WHEN: December 19 – December 20 masterpieces that have never been displayed TIME: 8:30am – 1:30pm centre for learning. We off er regular classes TIME: 7:30pm – 10pm before. Developing the leader within every teen in the following disciplines like traditional With live singing on stage, strong cast today — for a better world tomorrow. classical and folk dance forms, art and of talents, and fairy tale sets that intensify Al Wakalat Car Market 2019 Each student deserves to discover their craft, drawing and painting, personality Mughal imperial opulence, this modern-day WHERE: Parking opposite to Khalifa potential and acquire the skills, confi dence development and public speaking, Bollywood version breathes new life into the classic International Stadium and motivation to make things happen dance, contemporary, hip hop styles, music story of forbidden love. The magic continues WHEN: December 19 – 28 and bring about change. The fi ve-day both vocals and instrumentals. To develop in this “must-see” musical that enthralls TIME: 4pm – 11:59pm leadership and innovation programme is health consciousness, we train them karate, everyone to watch over and over again. Iconic Al Wakalat Car Market aims to congregate an exciting series of interactive workshops, yoga with special sessions for kids and adults. acts in one unforgettable show, Mughal-E- car enthusiasts, prospective buyers, and energetic activities and fun-fi lled challenges Mamangam has also come up with chess and Azam, takes you back in time where two hearts automotive retailers with the best deals of specifi cally designed to inspire and enable robotics in regular batches in an attempt to justifi ed that against all odds, love conquers all. the year in a single location. Al Wakalat Car each and every student to uncover their give a better learning experience, as they Tickets available through www.q-tickets.com Market will enable visitors to have access unique abilities, develop greater confi dence sharpen their minds and brains too. to cars at their best off ers of the year, which and master strategies for success in the For those who wish to register for more ensure to clear out stocks of approved cars. classroom and beyond. Programme leader, details, visit www.mamangamqatar.in Dr Ram B. Ramchandran is Vice Dean and Professor of Strategy and Planning at the Career Guidance O.P. Jindal Global School, India. The event is WHERE: Right Track Consultants, Al organised by Right Track Consultants. Sadd For registration details, contact 55448835. WHEN: Sunday – Thursday TIME: 6pm – 8pm Ballet Lessons Career guidance for course, country, WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier college and entrance for students of Grade WHEN: Ongoing IX-XII, of all curriculum. Career assessments TIME: 4pm – 8pm administered for stream preference, career For more info e-mail at registration@ test, branch preference, personality, atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839. multiple intelligence and learning styles and productivity. For more information, 55448835.

Short Executive Programme WHERE: HEC Paris in Qatar WHEN: Today HEC Paris in Qatar off ers ‘General Management – The Navigator Programme’ Executive Short Programme with HEC Paris Affi liate Professor Wolfgang Amann. This two-day programme will give aspiring and Gems and Jewels Exhibition current and future managers a solid, hands- WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art on introduction to the challenges and key WHEN: Ongoing till January 18 tasks of general management. By the end of TIME: 9am onwards this session, participants will have gained The exhibition comes in celebration of a profound understanding of the roles and the Qatar-India 2019 Year of Culture and tasks, the opportunities and challenges, and presents a look at magnifi cent gems and the necessity to bridge as well as combine jewellery from India. Set in Stone: Gems and insights from leadership, governance, and Jewels from Royal Indian Courts showcases strategy.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY The bus school The mobile school is a palliative for a crisis that worsens by the day. (US president Donald) Trump’s critics say that is due, in part, to his immigration policies, particularly the separation of families under the “Remain in Mexico” programme, writes Alejandro Maciel

PLAY TIME: Students play after class at a school run by Yes We Can Mobile Schools, a project of the Yes We Can World Foundation, a nonprofit formed to support migrant children staying on Mexico’s northern border.

t’s a Friday morning and, as Mexico’s northern border while at any other school, children they wait for US authorities They come depressed, with the are cutting paper, drawing, to accept or deny their asylum reading aloud and playing applications. anguish of not knowing what’s going with friends. There’s some The eff ort was brought to life by Ishouting and pushing too, and Estefania Rebellón, a Los Angeles to happen, with the uncertainty of their teacher patiently arranges the actor who knows the pain and knowing if they’re going to be able desks and gives instructions. uncertainty of being an asylum- What’s unusual is the setting: seeker. Eighteen years ago, at age to cross into the United States or the inside of a passenger bus 10, she fl ed her native Colombia that has been converted into a after the Revolutionary Armed will have to return to their places of classroom. Forces of Colombia, better known The school is part of the Yes We as Farc, threatened to kill her origin Can Mobile Schools project of the family. Yes We Can World Foundation, “One day, my parents were a nonprofi t formed to support waiting for me outside of school ‘ — Sandra Rodríguez, teacher ’ migrant children trapped on and took me home. On the way, Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY they told me we had to leave,” she recalled. The family abandoned their house in a prosperous neighbourhood in the city of Cali, and her parents gave up their work as well-known lawyers. “Without understanding what was going on, I put some clothes in a suitcase, a doll, and nothing else. My life and my memories stayed there,” Rebellón said. Exiled overnight, within a matter of days her family was in Miami and soon sought asylum with US authorities. Memories of that uneasy time came back last December when Rebellón fi rst visited El Barretal, a shelter set up by Mexican authorities in Tijuana to receive caravans of migrants from Central America. Seeing the children, uncertain and anxious, she felt her heart shrink and resolved to do something — in the same way that a relative off ered her home as shelter for Rebellón, her siblings and parents when they sought asylum. “From that time, I remember the feeling of security that came from knowing that someone was holding our hand,” she said. Now it was her turn to lend that helping hand. In less than a month after returning to Los Angeles, she had formed Yes We Can World Foundation. Before her visit to Tijuana, Rebellón had participated as CLASS: Teacher Clarissa Ortega leads a class of preschool and elementary aged students at the school. an activist in some political movements, primarily against President Donald Trump’s away about her experiences in a San immigration and border policies, Diego migrant detention centre. and on behalf of women’s rights. Migrants call them hieleras — But this cause was diff erent, more iceboxes — because they’re often personal. The children at El Barretal cold. had emigrated from Honduras, El “They took us to the icebox,” Salvador, Guatemala, and from Isabel said. “It’s freezing, and all the Mexican states of Guerrero, they give you is an aluminium Guanajuato and Michoacán, where blanket.” violence has forced thousands to Isabel’s mother, who said she seek safe harbour in the United had fl ed her homeland to escape an States. Some children walked for abusive husband, had pleaded for months to get to Tijuana. Some have asylum. US immigration offi cials lost relatives to gangs and organised were unconvinced. They denied her crime. application. “They come depressed, with “We’re going back to Guatemala the anguish of not knowing now,” Isabel said. “I’m going to miss what’s going to happen, with the my school, my teachers and my uncertainty of knowing if they’re friends.” going to be able to cross into the The school began operating at United States or will have to return full capacity in July and each day to their places of origin,” said serves about 45 children ranging Sandra Rodríguez, a teacher. from 5 to 15 years old. But the need Another teacher, Clarisa is so great that Rebellón and her Carrasco, plays soft, meditative colleagues immediately set up music to help the students tents in an adjacent playground to decompress. This morning she provide additional classroom space placed herself at the back of the for teenagers up to 18. classroom and asked the children The bus is parked on the grounds to breathe. “Inhale. Exhale,” she of the Pro Amore Dei (For the Love said, slowly raising and lowering her of God) shelter in Tijuana, where arms. “Inhale. Exhale.” dozens of immigrant families The eff ect was immediate. receive help. Starting in December, Classroom noise yielded to silence, BASIC LEARNING: Left to right, Isael, Ashly and Valeria, learn the basics of English while at a school. thanks to Badrap, a Bay Area broken only by the delicate music. organisation, that donated a shuttle Carrasco said that the children bus, they will start picking up “play, study, talk with their new “(They) play, study, talk with their new friends, and children from diff erent shelters and friends, and have fun discovering bring them to school. the similarities and diff erences have fun discovering the similarities and differences The mobile school is a palliative between one country and another.” for a crisis that worsens by the “But only they know what they between one country and another. But only they know day. Trump’s critics say that is have lived and what they have what they have lived and what they have suffered” due, in part, to his immigration suff ered,” she added. policies, particularly the separation The mobile classroom contains of families under the “Remain in many stories. One belongs to Isabel, Mexico” programme. a 5-year-old from Guatemala, who — Clarisa Carrasco, teacher hugged a teddy bear and chattered Continued on Page 6 6 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY

 Continued from Page 5

Since its implementation in January, with the co-operation of the Mexican government, more than 30,000 asylum- seekers have been sent back to the border cities of Tijuana, Mexicali, and Ciudad Juárez to await immigration court hearings. For Rebellón, the challenges facing the immigrants echoed her own family’s struggles, even after they won asylum. Her father, Carlos Rebellón, gave up his law briefs to work in a Wal-Mart. “Yes, we had to start over and made a big sacrifi ce, but for the family, you do whatever it takes,” said Carlos Rebellón, 64. As for Estefanía, she grew up, learned a new language and customs, and dreamed of becoming an actress, travelling to Hollywood and being famous. Rebellón has had roles in series such as Jane the Virgin and in fi lms including the short On the Other Side. “There was nothing that she could not do,” said her mother, Sara Manzano. She brought that resolve to creating her school. With the support of her boyfriend, Kyle Schmidt, she created Yes We Can World Foundation and set about acquiring a bus and transforming it into a mobile classroom. With a lot of work, they tore out the seats, lined the interior with wood and set up desks. DRESSING UP: Estefania Rebellón fits new students Fernando and Adriana, left and right, for a at the school. Using social media, Rebellón and Schmidt began asking for public support. “People responded with incredible speed,” Rebellón said. “I stood in a Home Depot and wrote on the social media that I needed plywood, and in a few hours, I got all that I needed.” “The key,” said Schmidt, “is that everything is transparent.” The hardest part was fi nding a place to park the bus. “We went through all the immigrant shelters in Tijuana,” said Mario Medina, an offi cial who ran El Barretal before the Mexican government shut it down in January. He and the foundation eventually chose Pro Amore Dei, which houses about 120 families and “has a great tradition of helping,” Medina said. Once the site for the bus was selected, a series of problems had to be solved, such as improving conditions in the surrounding area, which had to serve as a playground. “We convened a team of volunteers, and in less than a day, we cleaned and prepared the land next to the shelter,” Medina said. Vince Young of the LA-area pest control company Warrior Termite donated the resources to build a fence around the school’s perimeter. Gero Sosa, owner of a Tijuana electrical maintenance business called PYME, gave a lighting system to improve security, and the group This Is About Humanity donated playground equipment. Thanks to such donations, each student AFFECTION: Estefania Rebellón greets the students in the preschool and elementary classroom. receives a new backpack with pencils, pens and notebooks. They also receive and shoes. World Central Kitchen provides school “People support and trust us because we immediately show them lunches through an agreement with Yes We the great impact we are making on the lives of these migrant Can World Foundation. The eff ort relies on volunteers and four paid staff ers — three children and because we show them exactly how the money that teachers and a co-ordinator. Students, on average, stay at the school they donated is spent” 45 days. The school mainly serves as a transition to other schools, and teachers try not to waste the limited time they have — Estefania Rebellón, Los Angeles actor with their students. With the help of the volunteers, they distribute books in English and Spanish. a school required the work of dozens of how the money that they donated is spent,” volunteers from Los Angeles who had come “I already know English,” one boy, people and contributions from more than said Rebellón. to build the playground and construct the Marcos, told a companion. His family 500 donors, most reached through social But, as the need is great, Yes We Can World fence. hopes to travel to Minnesota and he was media networks. Foundation already is working on expanding “All help is welcome,” she said while already practising his vocabulary: “Pollito “People support and trust us because we its project to Ciudad Juárez, next to the Texas helping her volunteers set up a set of swings … chicken. Gallina … hen. Lápiz … pencil. immediately show them the great impact border. and slides. Nearby, groups of children were Amarillo … yellow.” we are making on the lives of these migrant “We’re ready to take the next step,” eagerly waiting to climb on. The passenger bus that today has become children and because we show them exactly Rebellón said as she shepherded a group of — Los Angeles Times/TNS Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

PISQ organises 7th edition of Inter-School Literary Competition

Pakistan International School Qatar (PISQ) recently bagged first position in humorous speech category, organised the 7th edition of Inter-School Literary which was followed by Tamim Ryad, from Alsaylia Competition featuring various categories, including Secondary School for Boys, and Fatima Yousaf, from dramatic declamation, storytelling, humorous speech, PISQ, with second and third positions, respectively. essay writing (senior) and essay writing (junior). A total The winners of storytelling competition, included Khadija of 17 schools from Doha participated in the competition. Yousaf, a student of PISQ, first position; Athaliah Yuri The jury panel included 18 co-ordinators and academic R. Castaneda, Philippine School, second; and Amani mentors from diff erent educational institutions in Doha. Ghafoor, Bright Future International School, third. The Principals of Iranian School and Qatar Turkish Of 13 contestants in Essay Writing (Senior), Ahmed School also attended the event. Hassan, a student of PISQ, bagged first position, which The event kicked off with the recitation of the Holy was followed by Allyza Reigh C. Platitas III and Laiba Qur’an, which was followed by a brief introduction Sher, student of Bright Future International School, about the competition. The competition was hosted by with second and third positions, respectively. In Junior Amna Ahsan and Munib Jamal, students at PISQ. Six category of Essay Writing competition, Shanza Fatima, participants took part in Dramatic Declamation category. a student of PISQ, won the winning title, which was Reem Saeed and Hassan Ilahi, students of PISQ, followed by Rana Mustafa, a student of Pak Shamaa introduced the rules of the humorous speech category. School and College, and Rana Haddad, from Newton Nine contestants took part in humorous speech British Academy, with second and third positions, category. Story Telling and Essay Writing contests were respectively. held at PISQ library and language rooms, respectively. A Speaking on the occasion, Nargis Raza Otho, Principal of total of 12 students participated in storytelling and 13 in PISQ, appreciated the eff orts of all the contestants and essay writing competition. congratulated the award winners. She highlighted the The winners of the dramatic declamation, included importance of organising such events as an opportunity Haala Qamar, student of Bright Future International for students to exhibit their creative and innovative School, first position; Jan Erika Mari D. Castro, Philippine ideas outside the academic domain, and hoped for the School, second; and Sayed Burhan Saqib, PISQ, third. maximum participation of expat schools in the said Alfredo R. Sanchez III, a student from Philippine School, competition every year.

Students of CISD win Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute Young Innovators Award

The students of Compass researched water sustainability International School Doha (CISD) in Qatar and innovative ways to recently won the prestigious use water more responsibly and Qatar Environment and Energy to reduce water consumption Research Institute Young around the school. As part of Innovators Award in their age their research, the students category out of 300 teams from visited Hamad Bin Khalifa around Qatar. University and Texas A&M The team of seven Primary University at Qatar. students from Compass’ Jimmy Frawley, Head of Primary Madinat Khalifa Campus were at Compass International announced as winners and School Doha’s Madinat Khalifa received their award at the Campus, said, “Winning the International Conference on Young Innovators Award is a Sustainable Energy – Water – fantastic achievement for our Environment Nexus 2019 held at students and is a fitting reward the Qatar National Convention for their hard work, diligence Centre. and determination to make a With the Unicef’s Global Goals positive diff erence in our school for Sustainable Development and the local community. At forming the foundations of the Compass, we encourage every event, the Compass Young child to ‘Be Ambitious’ and these Innovators’ video project aimed students have certainly shown towards Goal 6: Clean Water their ambition throughout this and Sanitation. The students project.” 8 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY

Walking in ballerina shoes POWERE Elsbeth Blekkenhorst, founder of Elisabietta shoes, speaks to Ria Maria Jose about the idea behind her ballerina shoes and struggle with high heels

NOTES FROM AN ENTREPRENEUR

“You can have an idea and you can start running with it but you won’t last unless you are really passionate about doing something. So once you have something that you love to work on, don’t wait. And keep working on it no matter what. Even when you feel really down and low, just keep believing in yourself”

— Elsbeth Blessenhorst

Give a girl the right shoes, something personal and fun.” and she can conquer But Elsbeth believes that her the world!” These lines brand shows so much more than from Marilyn Monroe, that. It stands out from the crowd American actress, model, because of her commitment into and“ singer, relates well with Elsbeth creating something diff erent, with a Blekkenhorst, founder of Elisabietta personal touch. “My fi rst collection shoes. Elsbeth was struggling with was quite bold – like the polka dots the wrong pair of shoes, commuting and the London print, because to and fro from work every day when my idea was born in London. So I the business idea for comfortable think that’s why my fi rst collection shoes struck her. The Dutch national did so well, because my designs had always been a part of the were diff erent from what everyone corporate world. Finding a business else was off ering and because the idea was easy; it was shaped out ideas were so close to my heart.” of her love and passion for ballet With her third collection coming shoes, one that began way back in out in just a month, she is looking London in 1998, but however it came again to create eye-catching styles to fruition only two years ago. She diff erent from what we usually see is among the 1% of women in the in high end stores. In business, she world with exceptionally small feet understands, one must always listen and wearing high heels to work was to what the customers want and at a struggle, a problem that is shared the same time give them something by women all around the world. She innovative. Elisabietta is also more found a voice in business through than just shoes; it’s about sending Elisabietta – a shoe and accessory a social message. “A part of the company off ering an exciting variety proceeds from the company also of ballet fl ats and much more to goes to a foundation we set up, called suit all personal and unique styles. the Elisabietta Foundation, through She went on to select a brand name which we aim to support other made from her own two names – women and their needs.” In this way, Elsbeth and Elizabeth. “I wanted it with her company, she is also giving to show what my brand stood for– back to the community that supports high quality and creativity, but also her entrepreneurial dream. TRAVEL

Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY

ED BY

TALK: Elsbeth talking about her brand at Heya Fashion Exhibition.

Unsurprisingly, it fi t in perfectly us a part of all the activities they do. at the same time it’s very challenging. is on the right path as Elisabietta for the right time to act on the ideas in a city like Doha. Elsbeth had been So yeah, it’s great to be working in It’s a big learning process and I need continues to grow. She is all set to and to be passionate. “You can have living in the country for more than a community that’s so active and to keep learning about it every day.” showcase her brand at the Fashion an idea and you can start running nine years and slowly, she had learned energetic.” She doesn’t want new Innovation in New York City next with it but you won’t last unless you about the Qatari community and how Talking about her journey as an entrepreneurs to be deterred by the year and she has also been invited are really passionate about doing the Qatari market worked. In fact, entrepreneur, Elsbeth says that it has challenges, however, hoping that they to a panel to talk about the story something.” Elsbeth had worked she saw that opening her business been great and exciting, but being in learn to see the fun in it and to enjoy behind Elisabietta, her foundation on many ideas before but she really here was met with warm welcome. business has its challenges. “When the ride. At least, that’s what she has as well as women empowerment. took off with Elisabietta because her “I fi nd the Qatar community quite you open a business by yourself, you learned from her fashion icons, like Slowly but surely, it is opening up her heart was in it. “So once you have amazing. There are so many people sometimes fi nd the journey being Steve Madden. “His story is amazing, opportunities to exhibit her designs something that you love to work on, out there having wonderful ideas and very lonely. In that regard the Qatari he has so much energy and creativity. and expand her brand. With her don’t wait. And keep working on businesses and helping each other. community is so great because He comes up with the most beautiful achievements pushing her, she aims it no matter what. Even when you So opening my brand here was very there’s always people you can talk things, so I love watching people to expand her business by adding feel really down and low, just keep special because I got a lot of support to and go to for help and support. like that and learning from them.” more styles to the mix. “I want to believing in yourself. Keep it going from the community.” She found But there are other challenges, like Most of her ideas also tend to come keep innovating and changing from and never stop dreaming.” Now that working in such an environment getting your foundation in place, from observing things around her shoes and bags to maybe mules, fl ats, two years in the running, Elsbeth encouraged female entrepreneurs your website, your funding, your because inspiration sometimes silk scarves and leather bags. I want Blekkenhorst really is conquering like herself and also promoted a marketing, your sales and social comes from the simplest things like to continuously keep changing my the world, one pair of right shoes at collaboration of all of their work media, which plays a big part now. fl owers, sunsets, colours or even art. styles to keep the excitement and a time. through the launch of workshops It’s showing up every day and being So she keeps her eye open for ideas curiosity going for the people.” and fairs all across Doha. “It enables creative. Plus, the shoemaking – the everywhere. In her advice to young Follow Elisabetta on instagram us to showcase our brands and make world of shoemaking is magical, but Right now, she feels that she entrepreneurs, she says to not to wait @elisabiettashoes 10 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY PHOTO ESSAY

Horsehead Nebula from Mazrat Al Turayna. The Horsehead Nebula is a small dark nebula in the constellation Orion. The nebula is located just to the south of Alnitak, the easternmost star of Orion’s Belt, and is part of the much larger Orion Molecular Cloud Complex

Photos by Ajith Everester (@ajitheverester) Astrophotography - II

Orion Nebula from Khor Al Udaid. The Orion Nebula is a diff use nebula situated in the Milky Way, being south of Orion’s Belt in the constellation of Orion. It is one of the brightest nebulae, and is visible to the naked eye in the night sky. Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Physical illness ups suicide risk in men, not women: Study

hen it comes to Many of the study’s fi ndings identify who is confi rmed previously-identifi ed more at suicide risk factors, such as psychiatric risk, scientists disorders and related prescriptions. have found that The researchers also found new Wphysical illness and injury raises potential risk patterns, including the risk of suicide in men but not that diagnoses and prescriptions women, along with a plethora of four years before a suicide were other insights into the complex more important to prediction than factors that may increase a person’s diagnoses and prescriptions six risk of suicide. months before, and that physical The study, led by Boston health diagnoses were particularly University School of Public Health important to men’s suicide (BUSPH) and published in prediction but not women’s. Psychiatry, is the fi rst to use data “The fi ndings of this study do from the population of an entire not create a model for perfectly country (Denmark) and parse it predicting suicide”, said Dr Gradus, with a Machine Learning (ML) in part because medical records system to identify suicide risk rarely include the more immediate factors. experiences — such as the loss of a “Suicide is incredibly challenging job or relationship — that combine to predict, because every suicide with these longer-term factors to death is the result of multiple precipitate suicide. interacting risk factors in one’s life,” The fi ndings, however, point to said lead study author Dr Jaimie Dr Gradus and her colleagues individuals who died from suicide 265,183 other Danes in the same new factors to examine in working Gradus, associate professor of looked at thousands of factors in the country from 1995 through period, using a machine-learning to prevent this persistent public epidemiology at BUSPH. in the health histories of 14,103 2015, and the health histories of system to look for patterns. health issue. – IANS

ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

Your radiance and brilliance upstage everyone else today. You’re a This is a positive day. You feel calm and balanced and more tolerant You’re going to feel deeply connected with your life today. The star! Your wish is anyone’s command. The people around you may than usual of the mercurial moods and passions of others. If you can atmosphere is clear, letting you see all the progress you’ve made be counting on you to be their leader. Although you enjoy this role, manage it, take a break from your busy schedule and devote a few toward your goals. You’ll feel great satisfaction, as you always do you shouldn’t forget to indulge in more private pleasures. A little gift minutes to you. You’re not used to such self-indulgence, but today it when you can clearly see the meaning in your life. Take today to rest for yourself, an adventure for fun, or perhaps some time alone may would do you a world of good. on your laurels. Also realise that some things still need to be done. be what you need. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

You’ll be very charming today. Your powers will be at their You’re in the process of learning how to dream again. These last few Today you’re likely to get a nice surprise in a relationship, especially maximum, and be most intense in your professional life. If you have months have been hard because your possibilities have felt limited. in your private life. Your companions may show their appreciation wishes or dreams or want a raise, this is the time to express those You’ve done a lot of work recently to try to align your fantasy life through some surprising act. In any case, you have a very good desires. You need only give voice to what you want and let your with reality. The result of this eff ort is that your desire to realise your chance of finding yourself at the centre of things, bowing under the charm do the rest. dreams has increased! Go after them, but gently. spotlight, and dressed to the nines. Accept the applause that comes your way. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

This is the kind of day that makes luck come your way, especially If the atmosphere has been tense for the last few days, you may Are you determined to win the aff ections of a special person? Have where relationships are concerned. Perhaps a friend will introduce notice that things are significantly improved today. You may even you devoted a great deal of energy to that goal lately? Are you you to an exceptional person who helps fulfil your professional succeed in exchanging pleasantries with people you’ve always had a interested in reenergising your relationships? Today is extremely fantasies. Or maybe your partner will surprise you with a thoughtful hard time talking to before. This is going to be a peaceful day, so go auspicious for love. Now is the time to write love letters! gift. However your luck manifests, trust that this is going to be one with the flow of the calming astral energy and enjoy it. great day. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

Take advantage of today to spend quality time in the cozy little nest The day is good for people with curiosity and imagination – You may have been gloomy lately, but today should restore your you and your family enjoy so much. It’s a happy, home-sweet-home including you! Since you’re not exactly in tip-top emotional shape, good spirits. You can embark on your journey with full confidence kind of day. A healthy, peaceful atmosphere reigns and dispels you’ll be especially grateful for the gifts today brings. If you’re eager in its astrological aspects. You’ll be even more attractive than usual, domestic tensions. Seize the opportunity to recharge your batteries. to meet other people or explore new activities with friends, do so. and people will find your charm irresistible. There’s the promise of Tomorrow you’ll need plenty of energy. The aspect is conducive to fun. many rewarding experiences in your career and life! 12 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

BELL CINDERS CYLINDER FIREBOX PISTON SMELL STEAM TRACK WHEELS BOILER COAL DOME MOGUL PUMPS SMOKE TANK VALVES WHISTLE CAB COUPLING ENGINEER PACIFIC REGULATOR SPARKS TENDER WATER

Codeword Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.

Garfield Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles

Sudoku

Bound And Gagged

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a 9x9 grid. The grid is also divided into nine (3x3) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every anone is repeated. Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 A lighter of mine (4,4) 1 Rolled turf makes a picture (5) 5 Cash dispenser containing 2 Altering navy rig at sea (7) nothing or tiny amount (4) 3 She requires daily movement 8 Bitter cold in very dry (5) environment (5) 4 Spud for lawman? (6) 9 Bird going round an Italian 6 It takes two to make colour city (7) vanish (5) 11 Chips with an odd vegetable 7 Terribly dear men wander (7) aimlessly (7) 12 Name of man taking Dolly 10 Home team? (5) out (5) 13 Country girl following bishop 13 Large girl finding way to (7) have two husbands? (6) 14 Manuscript about beer for 15 A car that’s made of glass? men (5) (3,3) 16 After half a month tropical 18 Flat obtained by a woman in vine is seen by Dutch queen (7) the Fifties (5) 17 Edge hoop in iron (6) 20 Gallery constructed in a 19 Poison that makes some live royal manner (7) no more (5) 23 Meat cooked in ovens? (7) 21 Profits in gas distribution (5) 24 Biblical patriarch’s 22 Cathy’s new boat (5) investment account (5) 25 Objectives set in Siam (4) 26 Communist beginning to get a bird (8) Answers Solution Wordsearch Codeword 14 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY SHOWBIZ Aff an, Hira taking the leap of their career with new serial

cannot be the same – so it’s okay if Ghalati (God forbid) does not do as Glitz well as Do Bol did. Yet I want it to.” However, Hira Mani seems to have & it all together, holding it all together with calmness. “I don’t feel any Glam pressure after Do Bol. Because that was another project and Ghalati is an By Muhammad Asad Ullah altogether diff erent project, I do not compare both of them. I don’t take Do Bol as pressure, I’m just happy atching a love that in such a short period of time story unfold in the industry, I’ve given such a on television is hit. I will always just feel proud and magical, especially happy of Do Bol. I believe if you start with Pakistani taking pressure then you lose on Wdrama industry in focus. Everything performance,” she says. is kept so real, whether you’re tuning The celebrity on screen couple in every week to catch the latest is becoming a phenomenon now in episode of your favourite show or as well, and Aff an agrees. binge watching on YouTube, it’s “There’s nothing wrong in the thrilling to watch as the best TV concept of on-screen couples. And couples fi nd each other, fall madly I’m glad that me and Hira have in love and give power packed been loved by people so much that performances. Some keep you we’ve been able to establish ourself waiting on the edge of your seat along the lines. But people have so through breakups and makeups much expectations now. However, and back again. Some stories open you know it’s very rare to establish the door for something more. And such an on-screen couple concept then there are fairytale endings in dramas. Because you’re almost where the girl gets her prince – fated working every day with new people right from the start, and some have and new co-stars. So, from that been together forever, providing clutter, if something is established – an anchor for the show. Whether then why not.” you call it on-screen chemistry or Saba Hameed is one of the charisma, there are certain pairings renowned veteran actors of that have gone down in history, for Pakistan with a matchless legacy of their legendary mass appeal. We performances. As she delves into rarely mention Fawad Khan without directing, Aff an and Hira talks about Mahira Khan, ditto Osman Khalid their experience of being directed by Butt and Maya Ali. Nowadays, a maestro. Hira says, “Saba Hameed there is that young lot of actors has directed it way too well. The who are joining the bandwagon POWER COUPLE: The duo, Hira and Aff an will be love interests yet again in an upcoming drama serial Ghalati experience of working with her was of on-screen chemistry, Aff an (Mistake), directed by veteran actor-turned director, Saba Hameed. phenomenal. It made me feel, that Waheed and Hira Mani being the I’ve fi nally achieved something in my very recent addition to the list with self-deprecating human being. Even career. I’m fi nally on that level of my their popular pairing in Do Bol if Hira owned a personal helicopter performance that I’ve achieved such (2019), a drama serial on premier or a collection of rare art pieces, she a fi ne director. Saba herself have entertainment channel ARY Digital. would not brag about it. The actress been a wonderful actress, so if she Do Bol garnered over more than still pretty much fi nds everything has chosen me for her fi rst project – 181 million total views just on that’s happened to her in Pakistan that meant everything to me.” adds YouTube alone; it instantly struck entertainment industry as nutty as Aff an, “I had a great experience with a chord with masses owing to its the rest of us do. She remains the Saba as a director. She has a vision relatable storyline and heartfelt sort of person who can get nervous and her hold on content is very performances by the cast. about a formal gala, who fi nds the strong. You can just rely on her as The duo, Hira and Aff an will ritual of posing on the red carpet a director. If I wanted to contribute be love interests yet again in an more than a little strange, and who something as a performer, she would upcoming drama serial Ghalati continues to sound like an outsider understand it completely and she (Mistake), directed by veteran actor- and a full-time mom. was conducive with the idea that turned director, Saba Hameed. Sometimes your one actors can also contribute. If I must In today’s young and fascinating performance sets the standards in all fairness say, Saba will emerge actors’ rankings, Aff an Waheed and all subsequent performances as a great director.” occupies a very high place. In 2010 pale no matter how hard you try, How is Ghalati diff erent? Aff an he started his dynamic and intense but even actor of Aff an’s ability and says, “It is diff erent compared to Do aff air with acting, which consecrated skills feel all the pressure donning Bol for sure. The storyline revolves him as a highly versatile actor. For on to outdo his Do Bol legacy. He around just one element, which I his ability to shift from intense to says, “Yes, I am feeling a lot of cannot disclose right now.” adds drama, for choosing tricky roles pressure but I’m just trying to shrug Hira, “The serial has got just a and embracing charitable causes. A it off because something like Do Bol regular storyline but its bombed with young whizz. does not happen everyday. It was twists and turns and climax; which So goes for Hira Mani. For Hira, a smashing hit and the OST was audiences would be able to relate Do Bol was another leap in a career, a rage. It’s too soon for audiences to. In short: it’s about a woman who in which she has moved swiftly from to ignore the chemistry of Ghaiti stands up for her dignity, respect and newcomer taking on side roles to and Badar. So all of these things HITTING THE RIGHT CHORD: Do Bol garnered over more than 181 million right. Everyone needs to watch this an award nominee known for her put together are adding a lot of total views just on YouTube alone; it instantly struck a chord with masses drama because in this Ghalati, is a vast dramatic talents — and yet also pressure. But I’m hopeful. If you owing to its relatable storyline and heartfelt performances by the lead cast, ‘Ghalati’ which after watching, you for being a vulnerable, relatable, come to think of it, your career path Aff an Waheed and Hira Mani. won’t repeat that same ‘Ghalati’” Wednesday, December 11, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY

Kriti ‘excited’ to play surrogate Dilip Kumar’s warm note for mother in Mimi ‘choti behen’ Lata

Actress Kriti Sanon, who is currently busy Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar has shooting for Mimi, expresses excitement tweeted a warm message for “choti about the fi lm. behen” Lata Mangeshkar, expressing joy The fi lm has an unusual story by Bollywood at her release from hospital. standards. It casts Kriti as a young surrogate “Overjoyed to hear the good news that mother. My ‘choti behen’ Lata, is feeling much “I am very excited. It’s based on the subject better and is at her home now. Please take of surrogacy but actually it’s the story of this good care of yourself @mangeshkarlata,” young girl who wants to be an actor. She’s a tweeted @TheDilipKumar dancer in Mandawa and she ends up being a Dilip Kumar posted his tweet along surrogate for couple. Then, the things that UNUSUAL: Kriti Sanon says: “It is very with an old picture where he is seen with follow change her life and also change her as a entertaining and a beautiful script.” Lata Mangeshkar and his wife Saira Bano. person,” Kriti said. Melody queen Mangeshkar was admitted She added: “It’s a lot on me. It’s around Chuppi fame Laxman Utekar. to Mumbai’s Breach Candy hospital after this character Mimi. It is very entertaining, “We’ve shot 40 per cent of the fi lm. It’s she complained of chest pain and breathing a beautiful script. One of the most beautiful based in Mandawa, Rajasthan. I think you trouble. The doctors diagnosed that she scripts I have read. You will have a lot of realise that you are excited and passionate was suff ering from pneumonia and she had humour and situational humour. At the same about a project when you end up narrating the to stay in hospital for 28 days, during which OVERJOYED: Dilip Kumar, centre, with time, there are a lot of characters you will story to every person around,” she laughed. she was in the ICU and was also put on Lata Mangeshkar, right, and wife Saira take back home.” The fi lm is directed by Luka – IANS ventilator. – IANS Bano. Globe nominations boost Oscar contenders The Irishman, Marriage Story

Lulu Wang (The Farewell), By Josh Rottenberg Lorene Scafaria (Hustlers) and Marielle Heller (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood) were also his year’s fairly wide- overlooked, marking a notable open awards season shutout for female fi lmmakers came into sharper focus at a time when issues of power with Monday’s Golden and gender continue to generate Globe nominations, headlines in Hollywood and whichT boosted several early Oscar beyond. front-runners, including Marriage Though it is expected to be Story, The Irishman and Once Upon the holiday season’s biggest a Time … in Hollywood, and also juggernaut, Star Wars: The Rise of gave a leg up to other potential Skywalker was ineligible for Globes contenders like Joker, The Two consideration because it was not Popes and 1917. screened in time for the foreign In the run-up to the early press association to consider. morning announcement, there were Meanwhile, the most sizeable a number of questions on the minds box offi ce hit of the year to date, of awards prognosticators. To what Avengers: Endgame, scored no degree would Netfl ix, which is nominations. fi elding arguably its strongest slate As a purported Oscar of Oscar contenders to date, fl ex its bellwether, one generally should muscle? How would the critically take the Globes nominations, divisive comic-book smash Joker which are made by around 90 fare? Would the Hollywood Foreign voting members of the Hollywood Press Assn. recognise any female Foreign Press Assn. rather than directors? And would there be any film industry professionals, love for the as-yet-unseen but with a heaping spoonful of salt. already meme-worthy big-screen Last year, for example, the Dick adaptation of the Broadway musical Cheney biopic Vice led the Globes Cats? IN FOCUS: Robert DeNiro, left, and Joe Pesci in a scene from Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman. field with six nominations, only to Representing a signifi cant end up winning just one Oscar, for showing for Netfl ix, director in the drama category were the Roman Griffi n Davis (Jojo Rabbit), fl uffi er, boozier cousin – with makeup and hairstyling. Noah Baumbach’s divorce drama World War I drama 1917 and Leonardo DiCaprio (Once Upon a greater credibility. (It’s been nearly Still, as awards season ramps Marriage Story led the fi eld overall Netfl ix’s The Two Popes. Rounding Time), Taron Egerton (Rocketman) a decade since the organisation up, the Globes nominations with six nominations, including out the comedy or musical category and Eddie Murphy (Dolemite Is My gave three nominations, including can help set the narratives best motion picture in the drama were Rocketman, Jojo Rabbit, Knives Name). In the lead actress category, best picture, to the critically reviled around which films may be category and best screenplay, Out and Netfl ix’s Dolemite Is My the nominees are Ana de Armas fl op The Tourist.) Still, Globes gaining traction and which along with nods in the lead drama Name. (Knives Out), Awkwafi na (The nominations can often be counted may be grinding their gears – a category for stars Adam Driver and Nominated for lead actor in a Farewell), Cate Blanchett (Where’d on to deliver some curveballs, if particularly important factor Scarlett Johansson. drama are Driver, Joaquin Phoenix You Go, Bernadette?), not outright head-scratchers, and in a year such as this one with Martin Scorsese’s mob epic The (Joker), Christian Bale (Ford v Feldstein (Booksmart) and Emma Monday’s announcement contained an accelerated timeline. (Oscar Irishman (also Netfl ix) and Quentin Ferrari), Antonio Banderas (Pain Thompson (Late Night). a few, including a surprise snub of voting will open Jan. 2 and the Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time … in and Glory) and Jonathan Pryce (The Boosted by The Irishman, Robert De Niro for The Irishman ceremony will be held on Feb. Hollywood followed closely behind Two Popes). Nominees for lead Marriage Story and The Two Popes, and the unexpected nod for 9). And while the Hollywood with fi ve nominations apiece, actress in a drama are Johansson, Netfl ix racked up a total of 17 Blanchett, who hadn’t been on the Foreign Press Assn. often tends and earned nominations in the Cynthia Erivo (Harriet), Saoirse nominations in fi lm only, leading awards radar this year. to favour commercial studio best picture drama and comedy Ronan (Little Women), Charlize the pack for distributors by a wide Greta Gerwig, who failed to fare, the spotlight that comes categories, respectively. Joker also Theron (Bombshell) and Reneé margin. score a directing nomination two with a Globes nomination can had a surprisingly strong showing, Zellweger (Judy). In recent years, the Hollywood years ago for her acclaimed debut sometimes provide a much- with four nominations, including Among the nominees for lead Foreign Press Assn. has worked Lady Bird, was again passed over needed box office pick-me-up to best picture in the drama category. actor in a comedy or musical to invest the Globes – which have for her period adaptation, Little smaller-scale films. The other best picture nominees are Daniel Craig (Knives Out), long been regarded as the Oscars’ Women. Other potential contenders – Los Angeles Times/TNS 16 GULF TIMES Wednesday, December 11, 2019 COMMUNITY Folk songs, traditional attire bring Sindhi culture alive in Qatar

By Mudassir Raja

indhi society in Pakistan is dominated by great Sufi s and the mystics. It has always been the land of peace, love, romance, Sand great cultural and artistic values. Natives of province in Pakistan have been residing and working in Qatar in large numbers for many years. The community is distinct for its traditional and colourful attire and folk songs. The Sindhi community under the umbrella of Qatari (QSindhis), a group that works for welfare of the expatriates and organises their cultural programmes, continues to enjoy their social gatherings and meet-ups with other expatriate community groups from Pakistan. The QSindhis recently organised Zeeshan Memon, co-founder of their annual event ‘Sindhi Cultural QSindhis Programme’ that coincides with the GROUP: Organisers and members of the Sindhi community pose for a group photo. yearly Sindhi festivities in Pakistan The other part of the annual in fi rst week of December. Families, event was cultural performances core committee members namely, remembered for a long time for along with other Sindhi expatriates children, and other members of by Sindhi children, who in their Junaid Mahar, Maqsood Mangi, Atif his selfl ess commitment towards formed QSindhis in November the QSindhis joined prominent colourful traditional dresses, Dogar, Mohammed Shaikh, Iftikhar the community service. Mushtaq 2014. Our aim is to stay connected representatives of the expatriate presented folk songs and Sufi Jatoi, Jam Sarfaraz, Riaz Shaikh, Shaikh’s contributions deserve with our culture while living in Pakistani community in celebration poetry and earned thorough Umesh Kumar, Adnan Soomro, due recognition and appreciation. Qatar and promote the peaceful of their poetic culture and melodies appreciation from the gathering. Talib Bozdar, Tarique Mangrio and He has been role model for many nature of our people here. We music at Salt n Pepper Hotel. The organisers took the Ghulam Mujtaba Baloch. The other Pakistani expatriate workers.” as the community group have The pick of the cultural activity opportunity to bid farewell to notable guests included: Riyaz Zeeshan Memon highlighted been carrying our yearly cultural was a comedy act presented by Ali Mushtaq Shaikh, one of the Bakali, CEO TNG School; Qahar his long association with Mushtaq programmes and providing regular Gul Malah and Sohrab Soomroo, founding members of QSindhis. Faqeer, community welfare worker; Shaikh and said: “We have known guidance and assistance to Sindhi two well-known Sindhi comedians Mushtaq is an electronics engineer Faisal al-Hudawi, community each other for a very long time and people here and back in Pakistan. from Pakistan. The celebrated by profession and has been working reach-out offi ce and co-ordinator we have shared common ethos in We have received all kind of support comedians mimicked diff erent with Qatar Airways for many years. at Ministry of Interior; Janan several areas. Hailing from the same from our embassy in Qatar. politicians and actors of Pakistan He will be leaving the country Bangash, Furqan Paracha, Arif work place in Qatar, we have had a “The QSindhis since its and made satirical and funny soon. QSindhis honoured Mushtaq Raeesani, Vasu Mulchandani, great association in Qatar and it has formation has been taking part in comments on eh political and Shaikh by presenting him with a Ramesh Bulchandani, and Rana contributed in delivering several diff erent national events of Qatar social issues of the country. Their memento and some gifts. Anwar, all noted and active social and charity programmes, and Pakistan. Our members have amusing comedy was well received Sarwar Shar, Head of Chancery members of the Pakistani extending assistance to a number been going to diff erent events by the expatriates who were clad at the Embassy of Pakistan, was community. of needy people here in Qatar and organised by Qatari authorities in traditional Sindhi and the chief guest on the occasion. Speaking to the gathering, back home in Pakistan” with our traditional dresses. We (shawl). Two Qatar-based singers Asif Memon and Zeeshan Memon, Sarwar Shar said: “It was a Talking to Community, Asif have also been representing our Shoaib Baloch and Jamshaid Bajwa co-founders of QSindhis, presided great honour to say goodbye Memon recognised altruistic and province at diff erent Pakistani presented diff erent songs to enthral over the event. The event was to one of the stalwarts of our selfl ess spirit of Mushtaq for the evens of national signifi cance in the gathering. also attended by QSindhis’ other expatriate community. He will be community service. He said: “He Qatar.”

AWARD: Aslam Burdi presenting memento to Mushtak Shaikh. DANCE: Cultural dance on the Sindhi folk song Ho Jamalo.