bazaar August 2020 issue

Page 1

August 2020 | Issue #247 www.bazaar.town


Pottery


Now online www.potterybarnkids.com.kw

y barn

1st Avenue - The Avenues Tel: 2228 3378


Pors


sche


Ike

The Avenues 360 Kuwait


ea


Lex


AMAZING, ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY PURCHASE A NEW LEXUS TODAY AND BENEFIT FROM AMAZING SURPRISES

xus

PLUS ADDITIONAL BENEFITS: • 50,000 Km - 5 years service (Whichever comes first) • 5 years warranty - open mileage • 3rd party insurance

• Free car registrations • Bank contributions • High trade-in value

Offer includes: IS ,ES, GS, LS, RC, RCF, LC, UX , NX, RX, GX, and LX models.


AU


UK


GERMAN PREMIUM BRAND SINCE 1919

BX5 BX7

Zay BX5 INTERIOR

BX5 ACTIVE SAFETY

BX7 INTERIOR

1821222

BX7 ACTIVE SAFETY


#GoNew What's #GoNew For You?

yani Follow

gonew.alzayani For Something Exciting.


Int “The show must go on, The show must go on, I'll face it with a grin, I'm never giving in, On with the show”. I don’t think truer words were ever spoken, and no, as much as I’d like to take credit for them, the actual credit goes to Freddie Mercury (RIP) and Queen. The last time I put pen to paper to write an intro to bazaar magazine was back in Feb when I was writing the March intro, and here we are today, at the end of July, working on our August issue. So much has changed since then that it might be easier to talk about what hasn’t changed instead of dwelling on the people who have left Kuwait forever, the businesses that had to close down, the hotels and beach clubs, and restaurants and cafes that are still sifting through the rubble trying to make sense of what happened to them, and countless other examples of things we all took for granted that have changed forever. As the world is still dealing with second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, new lockdowns and on the opposite end, a gradual return to life, we’re treading through uncharted waters. If we have learned anything from this experience, it’s that fostering strong community ties is now more important than ever. This is why we didn’t stop creating relevant content when the nation went into lockdown, and while we couldn’t bring you our latest print editions of the magazine, our bazaar studios team was busy writing articles for our website, and coming at you with fresh updates on our socials. We’re super grateful and thrilled to be back in print. Thanks to the artists, musicians and content creators who have kept us sane, hopeful and entertained, we’re exploring how this pandemic has influenced local creative ventures. For local renowned artist Yaqoub Yousef, his coronavirus-inspired pieces speak miles of the havoc and uncertainty the pandemic has wielded. As for Anke Punt Bach, her time in Kuwait is beautifully represented in her work. And when we spoke to Amal Al Rashidi, she told us all about how lockdown was a fruitful time to learn new techniques and explore different mediums. And while we can’t just pack up our bags and jet for a summery getaway, we’ve figured out some awesome ways to have fun in K-town. If you’re traveling this August, make sure you check out our guide on PCR tests, airport regulations and more. If you’re staying put, and you’re a lover of adventure, take up new activities like motocross and quad-riding with Red Bull Athletes Mohammed Jaffar and Fahad Al Musallam. Learn how to make the best out of your shopping experiences while staying safe with our new mall etiquette guide, and we’re also bringing you fun at the forefront with our special staycation feature. Complete with the latest fashion releases from H&M and COS, summer in Kuwait essentials with X-cite, we’re going back to life as we know it (almost) with a bang! Happy reading! Ahmed El-Adly

The bazaar team... Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Operations Manager Ihab Youssef

Content Manager Yasmine El Charif

Mixed Media Solutions Jennifer Cádiz

Design Ahmed Al-Ashab

Staff Writer/Online Media Hallah Danbouh Farah Barakat Yasmin Gamal

Online Producer/Project Manager Umika Pidaparthy

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Editor

members of:

Alia Al Duaij

Syndicates & Sources Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek

w w w. b p aw w. c o m The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

Printing British Industries for Printing and Packaging tel.2571 6122 info@bazaar-magazine.com www.bazaar.town | Zahra Complex, Salmiya. 8th floor, office 35 @bazaargram bazaarmagazine @bazaartweets

No one likes to be dumped;

12

recycle me, please.


Good design is at the heart of everything we do Sink in to our most comfortable sectionals ever that are made for sprawling out or curling up! Now Online westelm.com.kw

West elm

GRAND AVENUE - THE AVENUES, TEL: 2228 3072 AL KOUT MALL - FIRST FLOOR, TEL: 2208 1490


INDEX AUGUST 2020 26

30

36

GIVE

YAQOUB YOUSEF

An earthquake on the other side of the world in 2017 prompted non-techie Shayma Al-Sabah to embark on a journey creating an app that makes donating money to charity much easier. Discover how the GIVE platform played a crucial role during lockdown and how you can be a part of the change today.

Art can be a mirror and a magnifier of the status quo, and Yaqoub Yousef’s art shows us what’s happening around us in jarring, poignant pieces. His COVID-19 series reflects the difficulties and uncertainties of our times. Read about the prolific artist’s work and how this pandemic is creating massive artistic shifts.

Arriving as the first arab designer to collaborate with H&M, Beirut-based designer Sandra Mansour is serving us a truly special collection that easily juxtaposes femininity and modern edginess. Read more to find out why she calls it the “Fleur du Soleil” collection and what inspired it.

46

50

ANKE PUNT BACH

THE PORSCHE TAYCAN

AMAL AL RASHIDI

World-traveller, artist and Reiki Master, Anke is comfortable exploring everything around her and seeing beauty and potential in the most mundane. Find out how she became the artist that she is today and how bits and pieces of Kuwait’s beaches made their way into her art.

The first all-electric sports car for Porsche, the Taycan marks the beginning of a new era as the company systematically expands its product range in the field of e-mobility. You can order your very own Porsche Taycan in Kuwait today, and you can find more details in this special feature.

Civil engineer turned artist, Amal loves blending modern design elements with Arab and Islamic cultural heritage. She is equally comfortable using software and computer aided design as she is going old school and using pencil and paper.

40

SANDRA MANSOUR X H&M

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

70

K

TOYOTA C-HR

Hybrids can be the best of both worlds and the new Toyota C-HR completely changes the crossover game. It combines an adventurous design, amazing driving experience and classleading eco-friendly technology that will make you rethink your car.

90 POTTERY BARN KIDS Our little ones need the space to learn, create, play and daydream a better future for us all. This is why Pottery Barn Kids builds products that are fun, functional and most importantly, safe. Read on to find essential tips and tricks on how to create the happiest bedroom for your child.

14

ANKE PUNT BACH P. 40


Gulf bank


bazaar connect Freedom to find us

30,000 readers

With a bilingual audience of both English and Arabic, we cover everything from what’s on, to the bizarre. We print and distribute 10,000 copies of bazaar every month; each copy is read by an average of 3 people, giving us a total readership of over 30,000. bazaar is published every month (with a double issue for July/ August), delivered free of charge to a large subscriber database, and distributed free of charge in all of the following locations: Cafés & Eateries

Baker & Spice Café November Casper & Gambini Chocolate Bar, Al Bida’a, Marina Crescent, Spoons

Costa Coffee Outlets: Argan Square Marina Crescent Miral Mall, Mangaf Kuwait Airport Saqran Mall Ghawalli Mall Sahara Shaab

Starbucks Outlets: Abdullah Mubarak Adeliya Airport Mall Al Mowasat Hospital Al Shaya Head Office Aliya & Ghalia Complex Andalouse Coop AUK Bairaq Mall Baitak Tower Behbehani Complex Bida’a Complex BMW Showroom Daiya Co-op Dar Al Awadi Divonne, Abu Hassaniya Four Points by Sheraton Hilton Resort Jabriya Kaifan Khalifa Resort

Kout Mall Marina Crescent Marina Mall Mishref NBK Nuzha Co-op Plaza Hawalli Rosa Castle Salhiya Salmiya, Salem Al-Mubarak Salmiya Co-op Salwa Co-op Scientific Center Seif Hospital Shaab Shamiya Co-op Sharq Co-op Sheikha Complex Sheikh Saed Al Abdullah Terminal Shuwaikh Zain Headquarters Souk Sharq The Avenues The Palms Hotel Zahra Co-op

Other Outlets:

Crumbs, Shaab Dunkin Donuts, Mall 360 Elevation Burger, Abu Halifa, Al Bida’a, Al-Hamra, Avenues, Mishref, Alseif Haagen Daz- Souk Sharq, Arraya Johnny Rockets- opp. Salhiya Complex, Marina, Salmiya, The Avenues, Alia & Ghalia Complex Juan Valdez Café, Symphony Mall Made Caffe Al Salam Mall November Bakery P.Q. - The Palms, Marina Mall Paul - The Avenues, Marina Mall Prime & Toast - Al Bida’a, Seif Strip

members of: www.bpaww.com

Scoop-A-Cone - Egaila, Fahaheel The Early Bird - Fahaheel, Jabriya Upper Crust Pizzeria

Clinics & Hospitals Al Mubarakiya Dental Clinic - Egaila, Salmiya Al Safat American Hospital Boushahri Clinic Dasman Diabetes Institute Diet Care Center Gulf Clinic International Clinic Maidan Clinic - Fahaheel, Farwaniya, Hawalli, Sharq, Subah Al Salem Noor Clinic Salam Hospital Seif Hospital Soor Center Taiba Clinic The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic

Hotels & Health Clubs Al Corniche Club Crowne Plaza, Farwaniya Hilton Kuwait Resort & Spa Holiday Inn, Salmiya Inspire Pure Fitness Jumeirah Messilah Beach Resort Hotel & Spa JW Marriott – Residence Inn, Sharq Millenium Hotel & Conference Center Pilates & More - Salmiya, Mahboula Spaloon The Palms Beach Hotel The Yoga Center

Malls

Arraya Haagen Dazs Galleria Al Hamra Elevation Burger Boulevard Starbucks Costa Coffee The Promenade Caribou Mall 360 Dunkin Donuts Marina Mall Marina Crescent Casper & Gambini Chocolate Bar Johnny Rockets P.Q. Paul Souq Sharq Starbucks Haagen Dazs Symphony Mall Juan Valdez The Avenues Elevation Burger Johnny Rockets Paul Starbucks Airport Mall Starbucks Dar Al Awadi Starbucks Spoons Chocolate Bar Salhiya Complex Starbucks

4 Boutique Alghanim Marine Alghanim Showrooms - Safat Al Rai, Shuweikh, Sharq, Fahaheel beau-tique cosmetics British Embassy US Embassy Brush Salon CAP Gallery Cookie Dough Dar Al Funoon Dar.Nur Gold Class Lounge - Grand Cinemas Al Hamra TONI & GUY- Al Corniche TONI & GUY- Cliffs Kuwait Airport Business Class Lounges Finesse Nail Lounge Media Elephant Pink Moon Boutique Sultan Gallery THE One The Chairman's Club

Schools & Universities American International School American University of Kuwait Australian College Kuwait Bayan School (Hawalli) Boxhill College BSK - British School of Kuwait Universal American School

Kuwait University Starbucks Starbucks Starbucks Starbucks

Stand Alones

Al Salam Mall

Khaldiya Adeliya Jabriya Shuwaikh

Artspace Kuwait- Salmiya

bazaar magazine became a member of BPA Worldwide in June 2010, a renouned agency which ensures complete transparency, and verifies bazaar as an audited publication which distributes 10,000 copies on a monthly basis. To access our BPA report, please visit www.bpaww.com or log onto our website www.bazaar.town for a downloadable pdf version.

Freedom to surf us

www.bazaar.town

200,000 unique monthly visitors

In addition to delivering our readers with our monthly print installment of bazaar, we’re here to pick your brain daily with www.bazaar.town–The ultimate guide to Kuwait! Packed with a little bit of everything for everybody, with daily updates on events in Kuwait, tips for life, inspiring interviews, competitions, reviews, a classifieds section, and of course a comprehensive dining directory including addresses, telephone numbers, and links to each restaurant’s location on Google Maps, it will not disappoint!

Freedom to share us

50,000 fans and followers

We get closer to our readers through our vibrant social media channels on a daily basis. With more than 50,000 collective fans and followers, we love starting different conversations, sharing music, jokes, photos, competitions, and much more. From live Insta-stories to live tweeting at events to give you minute-by-minute coverage and commentary so you'll never miss a beat!

facebook.com/bazaarmagazine

Freedom to flip us

twitter.com/bazaartweets

instagram.com/bazaargram

issuu.com/bazaarmagazine

bazaar Newsletter

bazaarTube

20,000 monthly readers

Too busy to go pick up bazaar from your local café? Now you can browse through the entire magazine online via issuu.com and on www.bazaar.town. Featuring our in-depth interviews, reviews, stellar photography, and the latest ads showcasing what’s hot in the market right now; you can browse through bazaar freely and securely, whether you're on your PC, laptop, Smartphone, or tablet.


Toyota


what's trending August 2020

What: @shopprep Info: Affordable & trendy health and beauty products that have great quality and value Editor’s Note: Need a pick me up? Pamper yourself with shopprep’s products

What: @eco.tirekw Info: First tire recycling project in Kuwait Editor’s Note: Retire your tires into creative things

What: @yoyoso.kuwait Info: Unique products that have great quality, design, and value Editor’s Note: If you want to be trendy, bookmark this IG page

www.bazaar.town What: @eco8.store Info: Eco-friendly products with global shipping available! Editor’s Note: From silicone lids, natural deodorant to cotton buds.

What: @mubkhar Info: Fragrance Customization Concept Editor’s Note: Whether you like it sweet or floral, have it your way!

What: @bananamsg Info: Yellow bananas are too ordinary Editor’s Note: Send a message across with a special banana

What: @kan4kwt Info: Connecting organizations/individuals to those in need Editor’s Note: With your donations, you will be directly supporting a family in need

What: @kuwait_moh Info: Official IG account of Ministry of Health in the State of Kuwait Editor’s note: Keep tabs on the ongoing COVID-19 situation

As much as we work our hardest to give you one rocking print issue after the other, we’re socially active (or try our best to be, we are bazaar humans after all) and we love it! Find us online: It makes our day when we see your tweets/mentions/likes/comments/shares about your favorite features and more.

facebook.com/bazaarmagazine

twitter.com/bazaartweets

instagram.com/bazaargram

bazaarTube


Taiba


FAHAD AL MUSALLAM TALKS ALL THINGS QUAD-RIDING

Kuwaiti champion provides an insightful guide for those interested in the sport By bazaar staff

Lifelong quad athlete and motocross champion Fahad Al Musallam is talking all things quads. The decorated motocross athlete and champion currently lives in Kuwait, and graciously opened up to us about the basics of quad-riding. Speaking enthusiastically, he shares his professional opinion to help those interested in also taking the dive into this unique all-terrain vehicle. The now ubiquitous 4-wheel vehicle that seats up to two people can be seen on beach side paths all across the GCC, traversing across sand dunes for adrenaline packed adventures and on the grounds of family beach houses for relaxed cruises up and down Kuwait’s chalet strip. After all, quads are an essential part of Kuwait’s modern beach and desert culture. Al Musallam encourages those who have an interest in the sport, but are still at a young age to begin with a 50cc engine. This will give them the basics without any extraneous bells and whistles. “From there you should upgrade to a 90cc,” says Al Musallam, “something along the lines of a Yamaha Raptor 90, for example, will expand your knowledge base and prepare you for the upscale of even higher cc quads.”

20

He stresses the importance of gradually upgrading your quad rides, discussing the reasons behind this method as a logical progression and a continuous relationship between the driver and the motor vehicle. One continues to build on what they have learned through a greater sense of understanding the principles of operating the quad and gaining more experience until they finally reach an expert level. For adults, he recommends skipping the 50cc and 90cc quads, and beginning with the 450cc variety. He securely trusts and suggests Yamaha as a maker of quads of good standing. The Yamaha YFZ450R is a contender to consider when researching suitable quads for enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers alike. The advantage of the Yamaha YFZ450R is its large body, and vast capability of carrying equipment with no added stress to its body and engine, and its already proven reliability over the years. For any person thinking of practicing quadriding daily in the pursuit of professional status, he also states that the Yamaha Raptor 700R is an equally superb option to the YFZ450R. “These two models will definitely help you hone your skills as a hobbyist quad rider.” He says. “The main difference between the two is that 700R has

a massive engine and a lower seated position, so you’ll be extremely comfortable on it. Plus, the lower center of gravity ensures a firmer handling grip.” But Al Musallam also made sure to address the needs of casual enthusiasts. These are people who enjoy quads for the sake of the ride, and for whom driving for personal satisfaction is the main goal. He adds, “You can’t go wrong trying out the Yamaha Grizzly 700. Take it anywhere. Do anything with it and just enjoy the ride.” When it came to the topic of safety, Al Musallam has a few important words to say on the subject. “Always wear full gear and a helmet. It makes all the difference if an unexpected tumble should ever happen.” He also says to always consider the tricky corner turn, as oversteering is the most common error that quad users tend to make. So, if you’re interested in taking up quad-riding this summer, you’ve got all the tools to get you started! Just remember to stay safe, and have fun.

To find out more about Fahad Al Musallam, visit @RedBullKuwait or @fnm22 on Instagram, @RedBullKuwait or @AlMusallam22 on Twitter, and @RedBull or @fahad.n.musallam on Facebook, or visit redbull.com/athletes.


Gero


GETTING TESTED

COVID-19 testing, returning to and traveling from Kuwait By bazaar staff

One of the many new words that got added to our vocabulary in the last few months was PCR testing, but what is the test, who needs it and how to get it are the real questions that needed answering. Right now there are two dominant ways to test for COVID-19. The Polymerase Chain Reaction test and antibody testing. PCR is actually a technique that is sometimes referred to as “molecular photocopying”. It is a quick and cheap way to copy genetic material segments for analysis and study, and is considered one of the most significant scientific advances in the field of molecular biology. Kary B. Mullis, who created the procedure, won a Nobel prize for it in 1993. The same technique is used to test a sample of mucus, usually taken using a nasal or throat swab. Technicians then look for the genetic markers of the coronavirus which can only be found in an actively infected patient. While this is so far the most reliable test, the individual needs to have been infected for more than a few days so that the virus has had enough time to replicate. Alternatively, doctors and medical professionals are using antibody tests to screen people in the community who have been infected but are no longer sick. They will look for the antibodies that the body produces to fight off an infection. Because they only show up in a sample after four days or more, this test is not diagnostic. Finally, because PCR testing can be expensive and time-consuming, testing for antigens can be used as a first-step to identify people who are dealing with an active infection. The test does not tell doctors whether or not you have COVID-19 but alerts them that proteins from the virus are present in your system. The test is not as accurate as the PCR but it is much quicker, and a positive result can alert your healthcare provider to proceed to the next step in diagnosis and treatment. If you are already in the country you shouldn’t be worried, because your doctor will know exactly what to do. But if you are one of the many thousands of people who was left stranded out of Kuwait when the airports were closed down and are looking forward to coming home after the 1st of August, then you should know that you will need to get a PCR test administered. What we know so far is that valid residency holders will be allowed to return only if they have recent negative PCR test results. Call the Kuwaiti embassy in your country to find out which medical labs are certified and approved in your area and if you need any extra paperwork. There are some countries like Germany that provide in-airport testing, but it is still advisable to check if they will

22

be accepted on arrival. You also need to know that random testing will take place in Kuwait once you arrive. And you will also be required to download and register for the Shlonik application on your phone before boarding and sign a commitment pledge to comply with quarantine measures once in Kuwait. Added safety precautions like body temperature readings for all passengers before and after arrival will take place. You will also need to wear a mask during the flight and in the airport. Expect other changes to be in effect like not being allowed to board the plane with hand luggage and not being able to use cash at the airport. Because of the nature of the situation, information can and will probably change as policy makers decide on the best course of action, so always make sure to follow official sources to stay up to date. Prepare yourself mentally for a

completely different traveling experience than what you are normally used to. If you will be leaving the country, it is your responsibility to check what the rules are for your destination country. However, you will need to register on the Kuwait Mosafer app or visit kuwaitmosafer.com and follow the given instructions. Check the Kuwait Civil Aviation website (dgca.gov.kw) for the latest information. If you want to know what the latest requirements for the rest of the world visit The International Air Transport Association (iata.org), but it is always best to check with the embassy of the country you are visiting.

Photo by CDC on Unsplash. Sources: genome. gov, Kuna.


Brilliant for what’s next.

Save up to 7% with our educational offers on Mac.

Xcite This promotion is for all students, teachers and employees of ministry of education.

Valid until 31st December 2020 easycredit.xcite.com ‫ادﻓـــــﻊ أﻗـــــﺴـــــﺎﻃـــــﻚ أوﻧـــــﻼﻳـــــﻦ ﻋـــــﻠــــﻰ‬ @XciteAlghanim

XcitebyAlghanim

1803535

www.xcite.com

Get all your purchases on

Cash and Credit


STAYCATION SUMMER 2020 This summer we’re committed to going big AND staying home By bazaar staff

The sad news is that the hope of a summer getaway to sandy beaches and azure waters worldwide has unfortunately been cancelled by 2020. But, armed with optimism and imagination,we have found a bunch of ways to make sure of getting some fun in the sun time that works for every budget. Shalehi If you don’t own a chalet or know someone who is willing to invite you (once social distancing requirements have been relaxed a bit), you can always rent a place. This app will help find the right one that works for you. Not the faraway secluded beach of our dreams but we’re willing to compromise. Nabat We always thought that the tiny house movement was cute, but this is genius! Nabat and Lines collaborated on beautiful prefabricated, installed at the location, sun rooms? We’re not even sure what to call them, but we want one! We even think we can use them as our new glamping base during the cooler months. Recreate arcade vibes at home PLAY is a great destination for kids, with arcades, rides and activities for the little ones. Sadly, with COVID-19 still on the loose, you can’t go. But, maybe PLAY can come to you instead! If you have the space, PLAY at Home is renting your favorite soft play toys, kiddie rides, and arcade video games. All our childhood dreams realized! Animal Crossing If you have ever wanted to own your own private island, you now can with Nintendo Switch’s Animal Crossing. You might have to do some weeding, but if you level up enough you can terraform your island to your heart’s desire with double waterfalls and heart shaped ponds. Craving social interaction? You can invite your friends to your homebase and visit theirs. You can even visit Singapore’s family friendly Sentosa island. Virtual Travel Think you can’t scuba dive in the Red Sea? Think again as you totally can with the power of virtual reality. Yes, we know, it is not the same, but maybe you can try using your VR headset in the bathtub for a simulation.

24

Get the 5-Star treatment Staying at a hotel is one of the pleasant travel experiences, especially if you can afford to splurge for more stars. We are patiently waiting for hotel beach and pool facilities to function so we can get some splash and sun time. Whether you want to go all the way and book a weekend at one of the seaside hotels or just have a nice pool day, it is the perfect way to chill and enjoy some holiday vibes. Single guests can opt for day passes. Discover local museums Some of us love traveling to discover different cultures, but we have also discovered that we can learn so much about our own history by visiting local museums. We know they’re not open just yet, but once they do, we will be queuing at the gates and you can always call before you visit to check if they are open and just in case you need to make a reservation. Host your own (socially distant) private event Events may bring some PTSD for the majority of us, but if you stick to the guidelines and observe social distancing, there is no reason to not enjoy yourself with some company.

Invite two or three friends, hire an event planner off of IG that can drop off supplies and enjoy yourself at home! A great idea is a small picnic, or a game night, themes are a must! Just make sure that you follow the current guidelines to staying safe. Make a game of it We have a soft spot for local games and we applaud the designers with a sense of humor who have decided to make a difficult situation fun. The creative people @memorycardgame on Instagram have designed this card game that works as a regular playing card but also a fun spin on classic Memory where you need to match similar cards. @wanasa.games took a completely different approach and designed a supersized dice-based board game that challenges players to defeat Curfew!

Do you have a fun idea that we missed? DM us @bazaargram on Instagram and let’s chat about it. Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash.


AAW

Exclusive Distributor:

� fJ O @) @ExplorersBase www.ExplorersBase.com

Explorers

BASE

AI-Tilal Mall, Shuwaikh: 22256323

fgho.JI yl...:igll.i.µ: lJ'l.c p.cl.p.LJ.U iL____!J

�J-W -

I

ALI ABDULWAHAB AL MUTAWA

COMMERCIAL CO

K .S C .C


GIVE KUWAIT The little app that helps you give back By bazaar staff

In November 2017, Shayma AlSabah was sitting at home when the world was hit by the news of another devastating earthquake. Thankfully, Kuwait was largely unaffected, but Shayma was shaken by the devastation in the rest of the world and wanted to find a way to support the relief efforts. She spent a couple of hours trying to find the right charity or organization and realized that the information that could help her make an informed decision or choice was very lacking. When she came up with nothing, a spark was ignited and she thought she might be able to do something about it.

26


Shayma is definitely not a techie, nor was she bitten by the entrepreneurial bug, but she attended a talk at Sirdab Lab which ended with her signing up for a bootcamp at Coded. This bootcamp was for people who had an idea they were passionate about. And she really just wanted to create a platform that would help people give back to their community in Kuwait. At University, Shayma read Philosophy, Politics and Economics. She had never even considered designing an app. She had also never been passionate about a job or project as she felt towards Give. But it seems that at that moment in 2017 all the stars were aligned and her education, temperament and ideas

fell into place to birth a worthy goal. After she was done with the bootcamp she decided to register as a non-profit and take the first concrete step in the right direction. And in May of 2019 she released Give. And since then she has been working with her team of developers to tweak and improve the service. The Give platform itself, is not a charity, nor is it a payment gateway, instead it is a single point where any donor can head, find a cause they would like to donate to and do it right then and there. The app is available for both iOS and Android users. Of course, interested donors can also directly use the website

from any browser, which stresses the importance of accessibility when it comes to the Give platform. Shayma was quick to point out that the Give platform is not an alternative to the charities themselves, who were already doing a great job at collecting donations, instead it is an extra option for donors and anyone interested to give back, but simply didn’t know where to go. So far, there are thirteen organizations using the app. All of them are officially recognized and registered charity organizations. Shayma explained that Give can only host legitimate projects. She also believes that transparency is paramount and because

[Continued...]

27


of this reason, Shayma doesn’t charge the charities anything. Instead, donors are charged a nominal flat amount with every donation to cover the cost of running the operation. The app was designed to be easy and intuitive to use. You don’t even have to register if you don’t want to, you will still be able to donate anonymously, safely and securely. It is easy to directly tap on Charities to go to the one you are looking for. Alternatively, you can look at all of the open projects. From there you can filter by category or country and see a list of the projects that are available for donation. Shayma wants users to be able to have as much information so they could not only understand where their money is going to be spent, but she also wants to be able to share data and photos after the project has been completed. In Shayma’s mind, this arrives as an added layer of transparency. One of Shayma’s proudest achievements is a solar powered water well that was built in a village in Mauritania. The project was completely funded by Give donors and completed by Direct Aid. The full report is available on the website which people can easily find and view. Once you have chosen a cause, just click through to use your Debit or Credit card to make a payment. All proceeds go directly to the charity and it literally takes seconds to be done. Give is a very sleek and modern solution to a very important issue. Shayma explained that the older generation in Kuwait are already loyal to their charities, she just wanted to provide them with an extra outlet in order to be able to make donations, but mostly she wants to be able to reach the younger generations and non-Arabic speaking expats who might find an app easier to use that is more congruent with their digital lifestyle. Give could not have been born at a better moment. With the Coronavirus pandemic still raging though the globe, many of us have the privilege to shelter at home while the underprivileged need more resources than ever before. The nature of Give’s work meant they could continue working and collaborate digitally, but they noticed an influx of individuals directly contacting them to ask for financial assistance. They were able to find and share the proper channels for registration for aid with the Ministry of Social Affairs, charities and voluntary groups. Shayma also noticed a shift in what donors were looking for too. “There is a lot of interest in local projects to help people in Kuwait. As such, we have created a section to help "Affected Families & Workers" in Kuwait. The charities offer meal boxes, rent assistance, provision of ACs and fridges and sponsorship of families in need. As expected, there was a big jump in donations during Ramadan. Due to the cyclical nature of donations, it usually drops again in the Summer. We were proud to see a collaboration between the UNHCR and a local Kuwaiti charity "Tanmeia" added to the platform and

28

[...Continued]

thankfully because of the generosity of donors, all four phases of the "Rohingya Relief" campaign were complete (providing shelter, clean water, education and sanitation to refugees in Bangladesh),” she explained. And it is not just about giving money or tangible support. Shayma feels heartened and encouraged when she hears about grass-roots initiatives and volunteers stepping up to offer assistance. She explains, “That's the true nature of Kuwait - we are stronger and better together. COVID has been divisive, but it has also brought us together. It's scary when I think about the lasting impact of this crisis and the uncertainty of the future, but one way I try to cope is to focus on the here and now and what I can do to improve myself and my surroundings. In that vein, we are working on improving Give and creating features which will help incorporate donating into our

everyday lives, so that it is not just something we do during Ramadan. We are also working on elevating transparency in cooperation with the charities to show the impact of donations. So, I don't think we'll be doing anything differently but it has strengthened our resolve to keep going and to find a way to make Give sustainable in the long run.” This is only the beginning of a long journey for Give, as Shayma wants to keep improving the app and adding features and tools to help people give to the causes they care about. Because what is life, if you can’t give back to the world?

For more information, download the Give app or visit the Give website at give.org.kw and follow @give.kwt on Instagram.


Enhcg

YO U R ex p e r i e n c e w i t h u s A LWAY S

Hadi NOW www.hadiclinic.com.kw

For more queries call 1828282/25363000 or Whatsapp 60002184 Re-booking Helpline: 60355964


YAQOUB YOUSEF PAINTS A PICTURE The Kuwaiti artist talks creativity during the COVID-19 pandemic

Scrolling through Instagram as we now do much more since we have more time to ourselves, bazaar discovered the work of Yaqoub Yousef. A prolific artist, at 40 years old, he is also a Department Head of Art Education in the Ministry of Education. His work immediately stands out as dark, ominous, and threatening, with symbolic meaning in the depictions of crows, police yellow tape, the iconic keffiyeh and rope. These themes naturally continued in his Coronavirus-inspired pieces produced in lockdown, and we were delighted when Yaqoub discussed his work with us.

By bazaar staff

Do Not Touch

30

[Continued...]


From the softest fabrics to the richest woods, create your own bedroom oasis with quality bedroom furniture for every style.

Now online www.potterybarn.com.kw

PB

1st Avenue - The Avenues Tel: 2228 3364


From the age of 18, Yaqoub was regularly awarded space in the annual Public Authority for Applied Education exhibitions, receiving a third place award in 1998 and a second place award for two consecutive years after that. Soon after these successes Yaqoub’s participation in the art world crossed borders as he represented Kuwait as a delegate of the College of Basic Education on a trip to KSA. Yaqoub says his artwork uses both realism and surrealism and his pieces have won a number of awards in fine art including five in the Fine Art Exhibition since 2009, the most recent being in 2019. Yaqoub also received second place for the Falah Mubarak Al-Hajraf Award in 2019, and received the His Highness the Emir’s Prize Sheika Fattouh Al-Samman Art Award in 2015 and 2018.

Staying at home and being stuck indoors can be stifling, creatively speaking. How have you been keeping yourself motivated to paint? For this period which we are going through, it is certainly difficult not only for me but also for every person in the world due to the pandemic. Practicing mindfulness during this time meant that it wasn’t an obstacle for me. What is it about working with paint that you enjoy, and why acrylics? I, like any artist, use most any material that can help me in the creative process. I am skilled in watercolor, oil, acrylic, and pencil. But, as for acrylics, it is a medium that helps me achieve a piece faster than oil, although I suffer with it because it dries much more quickly than oils. Oils can remain moist for two days which means you can continue to manipulate and create for longer. But I can still create pieces using acrylics that look like oil paintings.

Kuwait in the time of Corona

Can you tell us more about the symbolism in your pieces? Much of my work contains special meanings. Take the crow for example, which can represent certain actions or people who have undue influence and control over our behavior. The yellow tape symbolizes distance and in fact the piece with the ornate golden frame in it is called, “Do Not Touch.” Here the tape signifies staying at home and social distancing. Rope ties in my work symbolize control once again, and in “Restriction” - a pre-corona piece - the crow, by perching on the hands, is preventing the subject’s escape. The attack of COVID-19 fits many of your themes like death and a threatening force, can you say how you linked these thoughts to the virus, and which coronavirus work did you start working on first?

32

[Continued...]

Scream


MAKE YOUR OWN

MORIAWASE

MAKI ORDER NOW +965 1823080

AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY AND TAKE-AWAY STAY SAFE KUWAIT KUWAIT - MANAMA - DOHA www.olivermaki.com


I drew inspiration by seeing the events all over the world that were occurring due to the pandemic. The first piece was the woman and the crows, “Scream”. The crows represent the disease or people who are infected and the woman represents the community that I live in which is trying to stop the spread of the virus by observing social distancing and not interacting with other people. And it’s saying that you have to be careful and wear a mask. In “Scream” a murder of crows attacks at the face, a significant representation of the threat of death. Before the pandemic, why did you first focus on the crow? Regarding the crow, as I said before it can symbolize death or control. An example of control is the events that occurred in Syria with ISIS and the conflict in the Middle East. The crow has represented the actions of ISIS, and in “Destiny” - a pre-corona piece - I am commenting on war which the crow represents and the impact of war on children. Which piece do you think is your most powerful that you have produced during this time? There is no work better than the other because I love all of my work and I don’t do a better job on one more than the other. Which work is most powerful is subjective, and for the viewer to decide. Where do you think your inspiration will lead you? To be honest, I don’t know where my work is headed. But, while my art may not be to everyone's liking, and there may be people who find it hard to accept, I do hope that it reaches its audience and that I represent my country the best that I can.

Destiny

Follow Yaqoub Yousef on Instagram @theking80 to see a broader selection of fine art and anime artworks. DM for enquiries. Images reproduced with the kind permission of the artist.

34

[...Continued]

Restrictions


HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BIRTHDAY,

B&bW

The Avenues Mall • Marina Mall • Al Fanar Mall • The Gate Mall • Souq Sharq • Mishref Co-op • Qortuba Co-op Al Kout Mall • Mubarak Al Kabeer and Al Qurain Co-op • The Promenade • Hateen Co-op • Khaldiya Co-op • Shamiya Co-op • Awtad Mall • Rawda Co-op • Abdullah Al Mubarak Co-op bathandbodyworksarabia • www.bathandbodyworks.com.kw Customer Service: 182-12-12


SANDRA MANSOUR X H&M DROPS AUGUST 6!

Beirut-based eponymous label is the first Arab fashion house to collaborate with H&M By bazaar staff

We’re all for designer collaborations, especially when they highlight talented visionaries from the Middle East. When news dropped of Beirut-based designer Sandra Mansour’s collaboration with H&M, we knew we were in for something truly special. As the first Arab designer to collaborate with H&M, she is bringing local Lebanese craftsmanship and creativity to the limelight.

36


The eponymous brand is renowned for its dreamy and daring aesthetic — beautifully juxtaposing femininity with modern edginess. “The first things you notice about Sandra Mansour’s designs are their whimsical qualities and sheer beauty, but then you get further drawn into the craftsmanship, the storytelling, and the modern youthfulness. There’s also something empowering about femininity. We’re proud to be collaborating with such a trailblazer and look forward to launching the collection worldwide!” says Maria Östblom, Head of Design Womenswear at H&M. The collection features intricate designs in a muted color palette, where handcrafted details like edgy ruffles and layers of romantic fabrics create a youthful, empowering look. The Sandra Mansour x H&M collection will be available at kw.hm.com as well as in selected stores from 6 August. Sandra Mansour established her fashion house in 2010 and her attention to detail and artisanship, mixed with inspiration from art and her surroundings

in Beirut, shines through in all her designs. For the Sandra Mansour x H&M collection, the designer draws inspiration from elements of nature and powerful female artists such as Toyen, Dorothea Tanning, Lena Leclercq, and Bibi Zogbé. Sandra Mansour regularly names each of her collections, and considers this a long-time design tradition. This special collaboration is entitled Fleur du Soleil, inspired after she became fascinated with the way a sunflower follows the sun from day into night. Dot, floral and sunflower motifs enrich sheer, delicate fabrics and emphasize the attention to detail of each piece, while the feminine silhouettes exude power and an urban edge. Two clear themes are pervasive throughout this womenswear and accessories collection, surrealism and nature. She says, “The inspiration for the H&M collaboration was nature and natural elements. Especially the sunflower, which represents the cycle of life, and its dependency on sun and light. Poetry and painters inspired the selection of fabric – the dark

laces, jacquards, and embroidered organza. With the Fleur du Soleil collection, I want to talk to women around the world by sending a message of hope, something we really need right now.” Her message couldn’t ring more true, as life as we’ve known it is entirely different, and we all need a message of hope to move forward. Mansour considers art and self-expression as an outline for her creation process. And this is a recurring theme for the designer, referencing poets, writers and when it comes to this collaboration, it is Lena Leclercq’s writings which have struck a strong chord with Mansour. Also beautifully presented in this collection is the sunflower motif, whether dotted, florally printed or evoked in textural fabrics, in turn, commemorating Bibi Zogbé’s paintings which can be found throughout her homeland of Lebanon. In an interview with Arabia5am, Mansour stated that “Her dreamy and romantic representation of home is an ode, with a constant ability to inspire.” The result is a feminine, strong range of dresses

[Continued...]

37


varying lengths, fabrics and prints, blouses and skirts, a tailored blazer, and a printed T-shirt and hoodie. Fit-and-flare shapes and ruffled hems are mixed with voluminous and statement details in an earthy color palette of mushroom greys, ivory, and black. The beauty of this collection is that it’s completely fluid, where several pieces could be worn together to create an unforgettable ensemble, or you can take one piece and style it based on your preference. Consider the ethereal Wind Skirt styled with an edgy denim jacket, or the Amata Wrap Dress worn to a special occasion. Match the Summer Shirt with the playful Union Skirt for an edgy look. The collection crosses over from day to night flawlessly, as flexibility in style was deeply rooted in Mansour’s design ethos when it came to this collaboration. That’s the beauty of working with daring designers like Mansour, who is renowned for her dreamy ready-to-wear evening dress collections. When it came to bringing her vision to the high street, she made sure that each piece has a purpose. Lest we forget the collection’s spectacular array of accessories! Bold and maximalist, they bring Mansour’s artistic vision to life. The gold, oversized sunflower earrings are a vision to behold, the geometric rings offer a beautiful contrast to the soft, flowy fabrics of the collection, and we’re obsessed with the oversized chain headband. We’ve got our eyes firmly set on that black ruffled hem skirt and sheer shirt combo, and we can’t wait to see the rest of the collection! Mark your calendars, as you don’t want to miss this! The Sandra Mansour x H&M collaboration will be available in selected stores from 6 August. For more information, please visit kw.hm.com.

38

[...Continued]


Voss IN THIS LIFE, YOU GET OUT WHAT YOU PUT IN. @VOSSARABIA


AROUND THE WORLD WITH ANKE WE CHATTED WITH A REIKI MASTER WHO MAKES BEAUTIFUL 3-D ART IN KUWAIT By bazaar staff

Not a stranger to beauty, Anke Punt Bach has lived her life traveling the world and embracing all that life has to offer. In every place and at every stage in her life, she found herself experimenting with different mediums and freely expressing herself through art.

40

[Continued...]


Moments Looking forward to creating new

MOMENTS with you again

www.maisalghanim.com

Genuine Hospitality Since 1953


Born in Düsseldorf, Germany, Anke moved to Holland at the age of seven when her parents got divorced. She grew up with her mom in Holland and attended school there. She later went on to become a primary school teacher. Down the line, she met her husband and was blessed with two kids. With her family, Anke traveled all over the world from England, Gabon, Syria, Scotland, Russia, London, Australia and now resides in Kuwait. Although she takes full pride in motherhood and all it has to offer, she is much more than that. She is also a Reiki master, who has an immense amount of passion for wellness, art and jewelry. Earlier this week, we had the pleasure to virtually meet the face behind the wonderful 3D art we fell in love with. Speaking with Anke, we could feel her vivacious energy through the camera. One thing about artists and the way they see beauty in everything around them, is that it’s very inspiring. When asked what it was that inspired her to start making art, she told us that from a young age it was a way for her to access her emotions that are tucked away and reveal them “[it] lets you discover the emotions hidden within and hope people can see it too”she explained. Anke indicated that people express themselves differently; some may prefer dance, others writing, and some through cooking. Whatever it is, doing something that brings you joy sends a message and a feeling out into the world which Anke hopes people see through her art. Having faced many challenges and experiencing different cultures over the years, Anke learned to appreciate what life has to offer. It wasn’t until she had relocated to Sakhalin, the Russian island, that she took this profession seriously. Up until that point, it was a hobby that brought her delight. For two years, she had the privilege of being taught by the well known local artist, Victor Kovalevski. She also had her first group exhibition, which solidified her confidence in her work. Throughout our conversation, Anke repeated the phrase “nothing comes for free if you don’t practice” like a mantra. Her advice to anyone comparing their work to the professionals is to understand that they did not get there overnight and they have many scraps in the bin but the finished product is the only one you see. Next stop on her journey of life was a move to London, it brought amazing opportunities for her career. She was able to study full time at the Art Academy. At the academy, Robin Lee Hall, Brendan Kelly, Anastasia Pollard and other artists shared their experience and knowledge with her and the other students from all over the world. An opportunity like this was a spectacular milestone for her since only 16 students from all over the world were selected. She was able to take part in many exhibitions which were located in the Shunt, the Mall Gallery, the Menier Gallery and the Merchant Taylors’ Hall. She also became part of the United Society of Artists, the Hesketh Hubbard Art Society and the Federation of British Artists. While there, 42

[Continued...]


CKF

EAT WHAT YOU LOVE ORDER NOW

Grand Avenue - The Avenues • Arabian Gulf Street, Dasman • Sidra Restaurants, Mahboula TheCheesecakeFactoryMiddleEast

TheCheesecakeFactoryME


she mastered art history and spent her free time appreciating museums and art fairs. This all led to her first solo exhibition hosted in Holland. Being in Damascus, Syria is a very memorable time for her that she looks back on very fondly and expresses that it helped her strengthen her spirituality through the practice of Reiki. She was trained, and promoted to be a Reiki master. Being a Reiki master, she felt the grounding and healing benefits that come from the earth. This helped her connect with her latest project when she stumbled upon rocks on the beaches of Kuwait. Up until her move to Kuwait, Anke’s preferred medium had been pastel, however she was now looking for a new challenge. After her move to Kuwait and during a stroll along the corniche, Anke stumbled upon beautiful shells, stones and wood pieces. This left her artistic mind to wonder how to create texture, color, shape and ultimately a joyful workshop with these different mediums. “It [picking stones] is like free shopping,” Anke giggled as she shared with us. She expressed her love and admiration for Kuwait, and noted that it has motivated her to step outside her comfort zone and experiment with different mediums. The ultimate vision she has for her time in Kuwait this year is to create a series of paintings with the materials found on the local beaches. She would like to give back through art, while making it more personal to Kuwait. When asked what kind of art she identifies with the most, Anke said “I am a colorist, I like fantasy and surrealistic art, portraits, beauty and romantic paintings.” As mentioned on her website: “The woman behind the work. I am an artist. Driven by passion Seized by obsession Delighted by creation Enthralled with expression Diverted by day dreams Filled with emotion Fuelled by compulsion Consumed with beauty and blindside by inspiration…. Welcome to my mind.” Anke’s belief to never stop learning is truly inspiring. During our talk, she mentioned that ultimately her dream is to combine her art with the Reiki practices she has learned along her journey, in Damascus. Her mind is a happy vacation, constantly searching for the next captivating thing. With such a positive attitude, she is a great reminder to believe in yourself. For more information, or to view more of Anke’s work visit her Instagram, Facebook or view her gallery on algarve-art.com.

44

[...Continued]


Bring home the Garden A proud French heir of popular arts and traditions known for shaking things up – reinventing, dressing & coloring objects to make your everyday life more enjoyable.

Rworld Jardin Fleuri Collection by

Rocketworldkw

Shop Online : fantasyworldtoys.com Shuwaikh Plot 40 - Opposite Mayar Complex | Hawalli - The Promenade Mall Rocket World kiosk in 360 Mall, New Extension Rocket World Shop in Shop at Fantasy World - Al Rai, The Avenues, Boulevard & Al Kout


THE ALL-NEW PORSCHE TAYCAN

Porsche’s first all-electric sports car is redesigned with both sustainability and performance in mind. The best part? You can order yours today and discover a supercar experience unlike any other in Kuwait! By bazaar staff

46


The all-electric Porsche Taycan is officially available for order at Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company. Available in three variants comprising the 4S, Turbo and Turbo S. Get ready for an electrifying journey, as the Taycan writes a new chapter in Porsche’s 70-year history as it welcomes in the era for electromobility for the luxury sports car manufacturer. True sports car performance The Taycan Turbo S matches the iconic 911 GT2 RS acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, while the Turbo completes this in 3.2 seconds and the 4S covers it in 4 seconds. The Turbo S is among the most powerful production models in the Porsche range, generating 761 PS (560 kW) overboost power in combination with Launch Control, while the Turbo delivers 680 PS (500 kW) and the 4S follows with 571 PS (420 kW) when equipped with the Performance battery Plus. Power comes via two permanently excited synchronous motors, one mounted on each axle, making the four-door saloon an all-wheel drive. Performance is further enhanced by the world’s first two-speed transmission in an EV, installed on the rear axle, enabling fast acceleration and high-end speed. The electric all-wheel drive is paired with variable torque distribution and Porsche Traction Management (PTM). The Taycan Turbo and Turbo S share the same top speed of 260 km/h, with the 4S coming in at 250 km/h. According to WLTP tests, all three derivatives feature a generous driving range. When equipped with the Performance battery Plus, the Taycan 4S leads the range with a driving range of up to 463 km, followed by the Turbo derivative with 450 km and the Turbo S with 412 km.

[Continued...]

47


Single-tier and two-tier battery The Turbo and Turbo S both feature a 93.4 kWh, two-tier Performance Battery Plus pack, while a 79kWh, singletier battery is standard on the entry-level 4S. Owners of the Taycan 4S can opt for the two-tier pack at a surcharge which boosts its power and efficiency. Future-oriented design with unique proportions The Taycan ushers in Porsche’s new design direction with a minimalistic theme that looks to the future but at the same time pays homage to its past. The ‘flyline’ that curves from the roof down to the tail is carried over from the 911 but offers more space to allow for rearseat passengers plus 366 liters of stowage space. The car sits low at just 1,380mm tall and wide at 1,966mm, giving it a purposeful sports car stance that is most noticeable from the front, accentuated under a sloping bonnet reminiscent of the 911 that holds a further 81 liters of cargo space. Two highly pronounced wings on either side house the new-look LED matrix headlights, while at the rear, a full width illuminated light bar pays its respects to the first 911 Turbo but adds a new twist by incorporating three-dimensional letters spelling out the Porsche name. Innovative interior with customization options The early 1963 Porsche dash provided the inspiration for the Taycan’s curved, free-standing 16.8-inch instrument cluster atop the steering column with the rounded look that’s typical of Porsche. It houses four display modes for the driver to choose from. The upper and lower sections of the dashboard stretch across 48


the entire width of the vehicle in the shape of a wing, featuring a central 10.9-inch infotainment display and an optional passenger display. The black panel replaces many hardware controls, such as switches and buttons, with on-screen, haptictouch menus that are intuitive and can be operated by the simple voice command of “Hey Porsche�. The Taycan is available with a wide range of interior and exterior configurations, in both traditional and modern styles. For the first time, Porsche also offers an entirely leather-free interior. New colors and an optional interior accent package give customers a wide choice. For an even higher degree of personalization, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. Charging The Taycan is the first production vehicle with a system voltage of 800 volts. This is a particular advantage when high-power charging access is available, allowing exceptionally short charging times. All Taycan drivers can comfortably charge their cars with up to 11kW AC charger at home, at work on a fast industrial charger, or at any public charging point while running errands. The basic retail prices for the new Taycan models in Kuwait are: Taycan 4S, KWD 33,900 Taycan Turbo, KWD 47,300 Taycan Turbo S, KWD 61,400 The new Porsche Taycan 4S, Turbo and Turbo S are available to order now, with first units expected to arrive towards the end of the year. For more information, visit Porsche Centre Kuwait Behbehani Motors Company, please call 1870 870 or head to porschekuwait.com. For the latest updates on social media, follow @PorscheCentreKuwait on Instagram and Facebook.

[...Continued]

49


AMAL ALRASHIDI Modern art, ancient heritage

By bazaar staff

50

[Continued...]

Amal AlRashidi is a civil engineer, but in reality, she always has been an artist at heart. She carved her own path in the art work and works with both digital and traditional mediums to create artworks that draw on her rich cultural heritage of Islamic and Arabic art with a modern twist to make them relevant and relatable. We spoke to her about her journey and process.


Hagen Dazs

Savour the mรถment @HaagenDazskw

The Avenues

Souq Sharq

Alraya Complex

Al Kout Mall

Murouj


How did you get interested in art? Did you start as a child? What is your first memory of making art? I was interested in arts and crafts as a child. I was always curious and interested in finding and using things that were unwanted like broken items or things that didn’t work anymore. I loved putting these things together and decorating them. My journals were the first works of art that I saved. I still journal to this day and I loved using colored paper and cuttings to decorate them. I loved visiting libraries and bookstores so I could browse and buy interior decorating and crafting books and magazines. What inspires you? Nature inspires me. Or a word or sentence that I have read or heard. Sometimes music speaks to my soul and at other times people’s faces appear to tell stories. I am also inspired by other people I follow on social media, they don’t even have to be artists. Inspiration comes from everywhere and not necessarily somewhere specific. How would you describe your style/aesthetic? Most of my work has a distinct Arabic style. I love the authenticity and returning to our roots. Being able to share the beauty of our heritage is part of why I love working on these projects. Blending the beauty of our heritage and modern elements is my favorite way of highlighting it. I feel that there are so many gorgeous details in our typography and motifs. Your art feels very local, from your use of well-known Arabic figures to Arabic lettering, was that a conscious decision on your part? Do you feel that it is important for an artist to explore their cultural heritage? Absolutely! My intention is to focus and showcase Arab beauty and origins. Our eyes are thirsty for authentic Arab details. It is a wonderful thing to be able to celebrate our cultural identity and to be able to renew it. Our Arab identity is rich with beautiful details that feed all our senses. In design, for example, I am attracted to Arab lettering and how they are fluid and easily melt together. The words become irrelevant when compared to the beauty of the calligraphy. And in Islamic art, the seemingly simple ornamental blocks are strong and poignant. What is your artistic process like? How do you start and keep going until you are done? First, I take in all the visual nutrients I can that are related to the design I am working on. It is almost like eating up all the inspiration around me. Sometimes I print ideas and designs that I like and stick them on the walls in front of me. I sometimes sketch with my hands before I even sit in front of the design software. Then I start using the computer. I repeat the process until the design is exactly what I want it to be. I sometimes leave it up on the screen for days to make sure it is what I am looking for. I can’t truly judge it until I have been seeing it for days. How did COVID-19 affect you as an artist?

52

[...Continued]

During lock down and curfew I learned new techniques in designing and illustrations that I had always wanted to explore. I wanted to break the monotony and routine so I signed up for a couple of classes and courses. I don’t deny that it was a difficult time and that I didn’t always have the focus or energy to learn new things, but I also learned to give myself space and time to relax. But perhaps, I am most proud of finally going in deeper into Collage Art, the extra time and change in pace allowed me to give it the attention it deserved and to refine my art. Do you have a favorite piece of work? If so, which one is it? I love all of them but Kalemat (Words) is my favorite.

What advice would you give to your younger self and to aspiring artists? Constantly improve and evolve as an artist. Learn from everything and everyone even if it is something that you think is far from your personality because it will definitely help you grow and might awaken an innate feeling or talent inside you. You can’t do if you don’t try. Every time you try something new, creativity will be born and your experiences will become richer. Nothing is lost and all experiments or skills you gain is stored in your memory and will help you on your journey. Stay humble in the learning process and you will get better. To see more of Amal’s art follow @ar_designq8 on Instagram. Images courtesy of Amal AlRashidi.


Over 40 Showrooms Xcite Located All Across Kuwait At Your Service

easycredit.xcite.com ‫ادﻓـــــﻊ أﻗـــــﺴـــــﺎﻃـــــﻚ أوﻧـــــﻼﻳـــــﻦ ﻋـــــﻠــــﻰ‬ @XciteAlghanim

XcitebyAlghanim

1803535

www.xcite.com

Get all your purchases on

Cash and Credit


SÖDERHAMN The new orange cover for this 3- seat sofa will bring sunshine and happiness into your living room. KD 165

CREATE YOUR RETREAT AT HOME WITH IKEA A staycation the IKEA way By bazaar staff

GLADOM Colorful accents like this smart tray table are an easy way to introduce character and fun to a space. KD 6.950

HILLEBORG If you need a stronger sunlight solution then install these black-out curtains that are simple to open and shut and come in beautiful colors. KD 13.500

HOPPVALS We love these Cellular blind curtains because they transform the bright summer light into something magical. KD 6.500

We consider ourselves the-glass-is-always-half-full kind of people. We’re looking at the rest of summer of 2020 and thinking that it will be a completely new and possibly quite exciting opportunity to spend more time at home and with our families. And while we normally enjoy tanning on sandy beaches in far-flung destinations, we’re just as comfortable lounging on our own sofas and enjoying the cozy abodes we call home. 54


LILLÅNGEN Tired of washing your hands in your ugly sink? The slim washbasin cabinets with 2 doors and ENSEN tap, is smart, affordable and pretty. KD 72

MULIG Slow living means ditching the dryer and using an old-school drying rack. Sustainable and much better for your clothes. KD 7.500

HAVSTEN Everyone needs an easy chair, and this one works indoors and outdoors. KD 97.500

Even though we can’t explore different countries or cultures by traveling, summer is still the perfect time to reset our lives. We can’t physically leave the usual distractions that we all want to escape when we vacation, but we can still temporarily switch off and focus on ourselves and our homes to find the relaxation that we usually need to hop on a plane for. Many of us are spending more time in our living rooms than usual. It’s where we Netflix and Chill or challenge other family members to board games. So, it is the best place to start the retreat transformation. Take a good look at the space and identify the corners and spaces that need more color or seating. Pair the SÖDERHAMN soft sofa and GLADOM colorful smart side tables to create an inviting, colorful and whimsical area that will make your family feel ready to embark on a new journey. We are also spending more time in the bathroom, religiously washing our hands and are really tired of our basic and boring sinks. We think the LILLÅNGEN washbasin cabinet can fix that, and can also give family members their own station for hygiene and storage space for their favorite soaps and skin care products. Finally, no more arguing in the bathroom!

[Continued...]

55


NATTJASMIN Bring the hotel experience into your home with these gorgeous lyocell/ cotton bed linens. KD 9.500

ROSENVIAL If you are tossing and turning but aren’t ready to replace your mattress, trying layering one of these. KD 15 It is also the perfect time to embrace the slow life and switch to MULIG, a sustainable drying rack, that will help organize your bathroom and avoid using the dryer so much. If you have some outdoor space at home then the HAVSTEN is the perfect lounge chair for you. You don’t even have to commit to keeping it outside, because it is also a great indoor seating option. The light metal frame makes it easy to move around in your home, and doesn’t take any visual space so it melds easily into any décor you already have going on. One of our favorite things about summer, is the long bright day, but when you are at home you might want some extra privacy without compromising on the sunlight. Switch out your old curtains with HILJA or HOPPVALS for the best of both worlds. Don’t forget to tackle the bedroom. Even though you might not be awake for the majority of the time you use it, it can still benefit from a transformation. Our favorite thing about hotel stays is how indulgingly decadent the beds usually are. Start with a good foundation with the ROSENVIAL mattress protector that is made from a natural material that pulls away moisture and keeps you cool and comfortable all night long. Then add NATTJASMIN, a sateen-woven bed linen set that gives you a real hotel-feeling experience. Get ready for some serious sleeps once you have added the STJÄRNSTARR duvet that is especially made for those of us who often feel too warm while sleeping. Have you ever noticed how hotel rooms are really dark when you switch off the lights? It is because they usually have high-quality light blocking curtains. The HILLEBORG curtains let you block out both heat and sunlight. Sweet dreams!

STJÄRNSTARR This is the duvet of your Instagram dreams, plus it will keep you cool and comfy all night long. KD 8.950 56

[...Continued]

IKEA is located at the 1st Avenue – The Avenues and IKEA 360 is located on the first-floor in the new 360 Kuwait extension in Zahra. For more information please call 184 0408 or log on to www.ikea.com/kw, follow them on Instagram @IKEAKuwait.


The new Signia Styletto: • Revolutionary design for a stylish fit • Lithium-ion portable charging case for 4 days of use without going near a wall socket • Styletto‘s Sound Clarity solutions let you enjoy a true-to-life listening experience in all situations

signia IT’S NOT JUST A HEARING AID. It’s launching my new fashion collection.

Hearing Care Center

HearingCareKuwait

HearingCareKuwait

www.intoptic.com

Tel. 25714007 / 97234753


GET ALL THE GEAR YOU NEED TO LIVE YOUR BEST OUTDOORSY LIFE By bazaar staff

After months of sheltering at home, we are itching to get outside, and with social distancing rules still in place, the great outdoors is still our playground. It might be summer, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the beach early morning or go for hikes in the desert in the afternoon. Explorers Base is Kuwait’s best kept secret as a source for all the things you need for the outdoors, whether for a day or a longer expedition. 58

[Continued...]


August 10 - September 12

muji Valid on selected lines only Free item must be of equal or lesser value


It was always quite difficult to find high-quality, durable, eco-friendly and sustainable products that we could depend on when adventuring. Ordering online from abroad meant long wait times and hit-or-miss sizing. But local brand Explorers Base is Kuwait’s leading distributor and retailer of outdoor clothing and equipment. Just looking at their offerings it is clear that their mission is to inspire and outfit outdoor enthusiasts with the best there is. Whether you are into hiking and trekking or camping and outdoor cooking, there is something on the website for you. Our online cart is full and our wishlist is quite long. We are a diverse bunch at bazaar, and our interests and hobbies vary, but all of us have found something we need right now. Our resident beach-goers have their eye on water shoes that will protect their feet from rocks while they run on the sand. The Skagit water shoes are waterproof, breathable and can keep your feet safe while you explore. They dry pretty fast too and are designed with odor busting mesh uppers. They will also protect you from slipping whether you are on the shore or off on a fishing boat. Pool loungers found the perfect slides like the Base Camp II slide and the EQBC. These smart sandals will take you from splashing around to city exploring without skipping a beat. Turns out that Baggies are the swimming shorts that everyone will be sporting this season because they’re fashionable and functional. Our favorites are the pair with alligators and bullfrogs. If your style is more classic, then the Pilgrim Surf + Supply board shorts should be your go to. They’re surf wear but with a street style edge that is so chic. Speaking of the urban dwellers who enjoy exploring the cityscapes more than the jungle, they should check out the wide range of Vans sneakers and apparel available on the website. The Ultrarange Exo sneakers are comfortable for pounding the pavement for hours while you walk the streets of Mubarakiya and downtown enjoying the rich cultural heritage of Kuwait, or if you prefer mall walking is your locale of preference ( we know, it’s hot outside!). And no cool outfit is complete without a graphic t-shirt like the Capilene Cool Daily Graphic shirt by Patagonia. It reminds us to “live simply” which is exactly what we’re trying to do right now. The online retailer has everything for men, women and kids who like living actively and curiously. And while we’re going to be mainly exploring locally for the moment, they also have gear and equipment that you might need for an overseas trip. No one wants to go skiing to only discover that they can’t find goggles or a parka that fits properly. Buy everything before you leave to make sure you aren't caught out in the wilderness unprepared. Whether you are planning to go trail running, on a safari or snowboarding, Explorers Base has the right gear for the climate and activity.

Find all of these fabulous products and more at ExplorersBase.com and be inspired to live your best outdoorsy life. For more information call 2225 6323 or follow @ExplorersBase on Instagram.

60

[...Continued]


Fantasy world


WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING AUK Holds Virtual Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2020 By bazaar staff Aisha Adel AlSaqabi shared the most valuable lesson that she learned from her education at the University, “If I had one takeaway from AUK, it is that it has taught me to be fearless. Not to be silent or passive but to be vocal and active, to be loud about the things I deem important and how to investigate the big questions of life that often left me uncomfortable but always led me to think beyond the boundaries of the classroom.”

Class of 2020 Valedictorian, Aisha Adel AlSaqabi Bachelor of Arts Social & Behavioral Sciences: Anthropology, Summa Cum Laude

Standing there proudly during your graduation ceremony is an unforgettable moment, and taking that away from so many students would have been disappointing in many ways. That is why AUK proudly shifted their focus to setting up a virtual graduation to celebrate this very important milestone for their future pioneers. AUK held a virtual graduation commencement for the Class of 2020 on Saturday the 18th of July, 2020 where 286 students—67 from the College of Arts and Sciences, 114 from the College of Business and Economics, and 105 from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences—officially became AUK graduates, amongst whom were 7 graduates with highest honors, 18 with high honors, and 14 with honors. The ceremony was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad AlSabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait. During the ceremony, AUK President, Dr. Rawda Awwad gave the opening speech virtually which welcomed His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled AlHamad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, parents, and graduates on behalf of the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Sheikha Dana Nasser Al-

62

Sabah and the members of AUK’s Board of Trustees. Dr. Awwad then proceeded to praise the graduates’ efforts in overcoming unpredictable circumstances by stating “Throughout the pandemic, our priority first and foremost was your security and safety, and instructional continuity to enable you all to complete your degrees... and you accomplished all of this while completing your courses online and engaging virtually with our faculty and staff. Many of you also completed your degrees in the fall and you were working and taking care of others. You all took AUK into your homes whether online, in spirit or in your actions.” Next, the commencement keynote address was given by the Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad AlSabah in which he emphasized the importance of education, “The world is developing at an astounding

rate, particularly in light of the Corona pandemic, which makes it imperative for us to keep pace with this development through the digital transformations across all country sectors, especially in the educational sector. Revising the education system in Kuwait is no longer a matter for debate, nor can it be delayed. Amending curricula and developing them in line with the labor market has become a pressing national necessity for building the future homeland,” he said. The graduates were each acknowledged in a slideshow with their pictures, majors and names mentioned. The ceremony was then finalized with the president congratulating the graduates and wishing them well with their future endeavors. The full ceremony can be viewed on AUK’s Instagram account @AUK_Official and YouTube channel AUK Videos.


Yousef AlRashidi, Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Salem AlSaif, Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Reham Kablaoui, Bachelor of Computer Engineering, Summa Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Khalid AlKharafi, Bachelor of Arts in English, Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Kaouthar Chebli, Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, Magna Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Ghada Al-Sahhaf, Bachelor of Business Management, Magna Cum Laude, Class of 2020

We got to hear from some of the graduates on why they chose their majors: Yousef AlRashidi: “I chose Electrical Engineering because it is the blood and future of every innovation in all modern industries such as healthcare, robotics and transportation. I learned to be creative, think outside the box and find solutions.”

Reham Hicham Rafic Kablaoui: “Being interested in the advancement of technologies, I chose computer engineering to learn to develop my own solutions to problems. I have learned many software and hardware skills along with the importance of teamwork and the ability to work under pressure.”

Salem AlSaif: “My decision of pursuing a degree in electrical engineering was due to my fascination with the complexities behind electrical power. Both the value I have placed on education alongside my strive to learn have helped me achieve personal growth while expanding my technical perspectives and skills.”

Khalid AlKharafi: “I chose the English major program because of the connection I’ve had with the language since childhood. The most important thing I have learned from my major is that English has broad perspectives with various interpretations and understandings.” Kaouthar Chebli: “I chose to study Anthropology because I wanted to understand and appreciate

the essence of being a human. One of the most important things I learned from Anthropology is the beauty of appreciating our cultural differences while allowing for in-depth understanding of the factors motivating cultural practices. I learned not to take things at surface value but rather understand the many layers and forms social influences could take.” Ghada Al-Sahhaf: “I’ve always been interested in leadership and business. Management is a combination of both as it requires skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning. From my degree in management, I learned the value of criticalthinking, human capital management, and innovation for effective organization”.

[Continued...]

63


Amer Khosla, Bachelor of Finance Accounting, Summa Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Anas ElGhabra, Bachelor of Computer Science, Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Al-Jawhara Sabah Al-Sabah, Bachelor of International Relations and Communications & Media, Magna Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Naya Sadek Kassis, Bachelor of Communication & Media, Summa Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Noha Mohammed Mahmoud, Bachelor of Computer Engineering, Magna Cum Laude, Class of 2020

Rafia Fouad Tabaa, Bachelor of Economics, Magna Cum Laude, Class of 2020

About the American University of Kuwait (AUK): The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and coeducational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The language of instruction is English. More information on the American University of Kuwait can be found at www.auk.edu.kw AUK received its institutional accreditation from the Private Universities Council (PUC)—Ministry of Higher Education in the State of Kuwait, as of February 1, 2006. In addition, the Intensive English Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA); the College of Business & Economics is accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); the College of Arts & Sciences is accredited by the American Academy for Liberal Education (AALE); the BSc degree program in Computer Science is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET); the BE degree program in Computer Engineering and the BE degree program in Electrical Engineering are both accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. For more information about AUK, or to watch the ceremony visit auk.edu.kw or their Instagram page @AUK_Official.

64

[...Continued]


PF changs

2nd Avenue – The Avenues | Grand Plaza – The Avenues Corniche – Arabian Gulf Road | SIDRA Restaurants – Mahboula

@pfchangsme


A MINIMALIST SUMMER WITH COS Discover the High Summer 2020 collection By bazaar staff

We’re slowly making our way outside, and the COS High Summer 2020 collection is all about those post lockdown wardrobe goals! It’s a collection that leaves you feeling confident, timelessly stylish and most importantly always comfortable. And now that we’re also making the transition back to work-life, the officechic inspired collection has dropped at the perfect time.

66


This isn’t saying that this special menswear and womenswear collection isn’t well suited for those weekends at the chalet, as the versatile pieces will take you from the office during the week to afterhours at the beach. Hues of khaki, marine blue, greys and taupe are juxtaposed against a basic palette of white and black. With cuts kept rather loose-fitting, and the use of fabrics like cottons and the softest linens forming the basis of this collection, we’re all set to take on the heated summer in the city with COS. Renowned for its minimalist aesthetic, COS will have you falling in love with effortless, summery blazers, office shorts, crisp shirts and tailored skirts. But it’s not all business chic, as the women’s collection playfully offers little details that inject immediate fun into an everyday look. The basic white shirt and black dress is amplified with puffed sleeves, and the plain business suit is presented in pastel peach for instant beach-side vibes. From the men’s collection, the simple, crinkle-style short sleeved shirt is elevated with its piercing azure shade, and color-coordinated ensembles can be worn in countless ways. When it comes to styling this collection, you can follow suit and keep your looks monochromatic, mix and match, or layer various shades for an entirely different and tonal look. You can rest assured though that you will be walking away with pieces that will stay with you season after season, in true COS style. Visit COS at Grand Avenue- The Avenues, Al Kout Mall and Marina Mall. For the latest updates, check out @Cosstores on Instagram. 67


TRAVELING THE WORLD WITH BOOKS

If you can’t pack your bags, grab a book instead! By bazaar staff

One thing that I love and appreciate about my personality is my insatiable curiosity. I am not nosy, and I generally couldn’t care less about what other people are doing, but I am constantly awed by the world around me. I want to know all there is to know about the world, and nothing captures and pulls me more than foreign and wonderful lands. Just like I am sure that I will never read all the books on my TBR (to be read) list, I am sad to acknowledge that I might not be able to visit all the fascinating places there are in the world. But now I can’t even blame it on my lack of time or funds. Thanks to COVID-19, you, I and the planes are grounded for the foreseeable future. So, I have found myself booking (see what I did there?) a different kind of trip. This journey was not started on purpose. I just found myself picking up different books about travel. This isn’t new to me, just more intense than normal. I joined different authors across time and space and realized that the world was even bigger inside the pages (TARDIS joke, anyone?). One of the best places to start your journey is Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino. It will set the tone to your fantastical journey, because it is a 68

collection of conversations about cities between the explorer Marco Polo and Kublai Khan the Mongol Emperor. Yes, it is a strange book but it is endearing and exploratory in the truest sense of the word. Once you've warmed up, you’ll be ready for the philosophical exploration of The Art of Travel. Author Alain de Botton, asks the important question, why should we travel and how can it transform us into more fulfilled human beings. He is a master conversationalist who knows how to draw from different sources and use them to build a strong argument for taking off to somewhere novel, meeting new people and learning about different customs. Not that I really needed any convincing. I am ready to board the Super Sushi Ramen Express any day of the week. I can’t even remember how I came across this book, but I fell in love with Michael Booth’s writing. It is part travel memoir, part culinary adventure through Japanese cuisine and it is a whole lot of fun. You’ll be left with a huge dose of food cravings and wanderlust. You can also travel the world and cross off many culinary exploits off of your bucket list with Anthony Bourdain’s A Cook’s Tour. Part cultural exploration, part gastronomic adventure, the retired chef turned author pours his heart out as he searches the world for the perfect meal. Does he ever find it? Find out for yourself.

Humans have been documenting their travels since they discovered writing, but when it is illustrated it becomes a true work of art. Cartoonist Craig Thompson was traveling through France, Barcelona, the Alps and Morocco on a promotional book tour and decided to sketch the entire experience. The result was Carnet de Voyage, a beautifully drawn travelogue that deserves to live on the fanciest of coffee tables. If you are missing the UK this summer, join Bill Bryson as he takes a final trip around the country that he lived in for 20 years before deciding to go back to the United States. In Notes from a small Island, Bryson takes public transportation and visits the strangest places that might not be on a normal itinerary. It is deeply personal, but it is also an ode to a country he called home for two decades. There are thousands of great books that will take you for a ride, and they’re the perfect escape. Some destinations are real, some are imaginary, and some do exist but are not reachable yet like the stars. The humble book has always been and probably always will be my vehicle of choice. Photo by Kira auf der Heide on Unsplash. You can find some of these books at Jarir, That Al Salasil or Q8bookstore, and they are available as ebooks from Amazon and Apple Books (better for the environment).


Steak out

STEAK OUT Legendary Steaks now on delivery

Order Now Grand Avenue - The Avenues Arabian Gulf Street, Bneid Al Gar Sidra Restaurants, Mahboula /TexasRoadhouseME


TOYOTA REDEFINES CROSSOVERS MOHAMED NASER AL SAYER & SONS UNVEIL THE STUNNING ALL-NEW C-HR By bazaar staff

Changing the rules of the crossover game in one bold stroke, Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Toyota launched the all-new Toyota C-HR. The daringly innovative crossover combines adventurous design with a responsive drive and class-leading eco-friendly technology to bring the future of the crossover to customers in the region. The C-HR has been grabbing attention globally and is now about to turn heads in Kuwait. The all new C-HR, with its cool and funky styling, innovative features and state-of-the-art engine technology, will

70

turn what you think about crossover SUV’s on its head. In view of the current circumstances and complying with guidelines of Kuwait authorities, ALSAYER held a digital premier, live streaming the event in Toyota Kuwait YouTube and Facebook accounts for valued partners of Toyota as well as distinguished members of the press and media. Martin Aherne Business Director and Bader Faisal Al Sayer Deputy Marketing Manager representing Toyota Kuwait. Designed to stand out both within the Toyota lineup and the crossover segment, the all-new C-HR – or Coupé High-Rider – embodies company President Akio Toyoda’s commitment to promoting stylistic freedom and engineering creativity. The pioneering crossover

remains remarkably true to the spirit of the concept cars that drew global attention in Paris, in 2014 and Frankfurt, in 2015. Now, the Toyota development team’s bold vision is brought to life in a head-turning vehicle that pairs a coupe-like upper body with the powerful underpinnings of an SUV for enhanced driving pleasure. Inspired by what he learned from meeting with potential customers, C-HR Chief Engineer Hiroyuki Koba focused persistently on their requirements throughout the development process, setting the highest demands for design and quality. Koba commented, “The Toyota C-HR’s unique character demonstrates the Toyota New Global Architecture


(TNGA) platform’s flexibility in three key areas: design, powertrain, and dynamics. This adaptability provided us with the freedom to deliver a fresh take on the increasingly commoditized crossover segment.” “We are excited to launch the all-new Toyota C-HR in the Middle East, a completely new breed of car that will change people’s perceptions of what a crossover should be like to drive and to look at. Designed to reflect the aspirations of adventurous young motorists, the vehicle represents the next step in the segment’s evolution,” said Kei Fujita, Chief Representative of Middle East & Central Asia Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation. The all-new C-HR Hybrid-Electric Vehicle (HEV) also reflects Toyota’s long-standing drive for sustainability. The company has harnessed the power of innovation to emerge as a leader in the development of environmentally friendly automotive technologies. Offering the lowest fuel consumption value in its category at 23.9 km/L, the class-leading C-HR enables customers to contribute to a greener future while enjoying the increased driving satisfaction provided by its advanced technologies. The new model also offers exceptional cabin quietness and smooth acceleration, especially when accelerating from a stand-still. Fujita continued: “Distilling decades of engineering expertise has resulted in a highly refined vehicle that is stylish, fun to drive and embodies Toyota’s commitment to safeguarding the future of our planet through its groundbreaking eco-friendly technologies. I’d like to thank our loyal customers in the region for their continuous support, which serves as a constant source of inspiration in our drive to create ‘ever-better’ cars.” The all-new C-HR is built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which guarantees a more rewarding driving experience. A low center of gravity and double-wishbone rear suspension contribute to outstanding stability and handling with exceptional ride comfort. The vehicle comes with a 1.8-liter VVT-i full-hybrid powertrain and automatic ECVT transmission, meeting all the requirements of daily commutes and weekend leisure journeys while offering peace of mind through its comprehensive array of safety features. Viewed from any angle, the combination of faceted gemstone-like shapes and fluid surfaces of the 2020 Toyota C-HR creates a delicate balance of precision and elegance. The front of the vehicle represents a further evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority and Keen Look design identity. Character lines have been executed with a gentle touch, and the front face features a body-colored lower lip, creating a refined appearance. The Daytime Running Lights (DRL) form a singular illuminated element located above the main beam projectors, while the indicator lights are fully integrated within the same unit. The position of the front fog lights at the extreme edges of the lower bumper allows for a very wide lower air intake, underlining the car’s powerful stance. Equipped with LED lamp technology, the rear light clusters stand proud of the bodywork

[Continued...]

71


and are connected by a sleek, glossy spoiler, giving the back view of the 2020 Toyota C-HR an expressive visual signature. The all-new C-HR’s airy and high-quality interior is designed to delight the most discerning of customers. Exuding a genuine sense of luxury and refinement, the cabin offers an elegant contrast between curving surfaces and crisp lines to deliver a fresh, yet comfortable environment. The sleek control panel features a 4.2-inch color LCD Multi-Information Display with an onboard multimedia system and full smartphone integration through both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In addition, the system facilitates ‘over the air’ map updates to ensure the accuracy of the navigation platform. The user-friendly controls are complemented by ample storage capabilities, ultrasupportive seats, and a dual-mode air conditioning system to ensure the utmost comfort and convenience for drivers and their passengers. The all-new C-HR HEV comes with all the benefits expected of the world’s most proven and advanced hybrid-electric technology, yet drives like any other conventional car, offering remarkable fuel efficiency at 23.9 km/L with zero compromise on performance. It

72

is powered by a petrol engine that delivers 97 hp and a peak torque of 142 Nm, working in tandem with an electric motor that churns out 71 hp of power and 163 Nm of torque. The hybrid-electric powertrain is equipped with a small, light, and powerful lithium-ion battery pack that can efficiently absorb and deliver current, enhancing the electric motive force delivery. Toyota has more than two decades of technical leadership in electrified vehicles and has amassed over 15 million environmentally friendly vehicle sales globally since 1997. The all-new C-HR can run entirely on electrical ‎power with zero-fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions or through the combined power of its petrol ‎engine and two electric motors, subject to the vehicle’s speed and driver behavior. ‎Its hybrid-electric batteries are continuously charged by the petrol e ‎ ngine and when decelerating and braking, meaning there is no need to plug in a power cord. The all-new C-HR features a host of advanced technologies, yet drives like any other conventional vehicle and d ‎ oes not require special fuel. As with any Toyota model, the safety of occupants is paramount and is assured through several superior technologies. The TNGA-based chassis has been optimized for outstanding impact performance and is

complemented by an impressive array of active and passive safety features including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Tire Pressure Warning System (TPWS), Hillstart Assist Control (HAC) and many others. A choice of 10 exciting exterior hues add to the allnew C-HR’s striking visual appeal, including Super White 2, White Pearl CS, Celestite Gray ME, Gray ME, Metal Stream ME, Black MC, Emotion Red 2, Orange ME, Oxide Bronze ME, and Nebula Blue ME. Further personalization is made possible with the addition of two bi-tone variants; where you can combine Gloss Black and the iconic Metal Stream with all the available colors. The vehicle’s eyecatching exterior is accentuated by sporty 17-inch alloy wheels. Customers can also tailor the interior color scheme according to their preferences with two distinctive options; Black and Orchid Brown, as well as go for the optional leather package.

Ready for a new exciting ride? Call 1803803, visit toyota.com.kw or follow @toyotakw on Instagram for more information.


“The designs I’m sure you’ll agree are head turning. The technology and performance is simply amazing. The car acts like a normal petrol car however they have the added advantage of a 2nd power source. This 2nd power source is self-charging requiring no plug in. The Hybrid cars are serviced like normal cars.” Martin Aherne Business Director.

The C-HR at a glance • • • • • • • • • • • •

7 SRS Airbags Bi-Tone Body Color Power Back Door LED Headlights DRL (Daytime Running Lights) AFS (Advanced Front Lighting System) 8-inch High Definition Front Display Apple Car play & Android Auto System. Rear Camera Power Driver Seat + Heater Seats Leather Seats Drive Mode Select (Eco, Normal, EV)

[...Continued]

73


RIDING THE HEAT WAVE

How Deliveroo keeps riders cool and safe during the summer By bazaar staff

Baby, it’s hot outside! Even without self distancing precautions, most of us avoid spending time in the scorching heat unless we absolutely have to, yet our delivery heroes have an important job to get done. We are now acutely aware of just how significant and consequential riders and delivery workers are to our communities. During the many weeks of lock down they were a lifeline to many. We often think about how difficult it must be for them to be out on their bikes in this weather. And it seems that Deliveroo is one step ahead of us. The brand takes safety very seriously and that includes helping their riders safely manage the heat. It starts with the kit, which is made from highly

74

breathable material and protected UV blocking wicking fabric that helps keep the riders stay cool in the heat, whilst protecting them from the sun. This is the kind of high-tech textile that extreme athletes wear for endurance events. Riders are also getting cooling vests which lower body temperature by up to 15 degrees Celsius. To protect their hands from blistering handlebars, heat protective gloves have been attached to the bike. Not only do they protect the riders’ hands while they are commuting but also keep the handlebars cool when the bike is parked in the sun. Dehydration is a serious problem in the summer, so Deliveroo and their restaurant partners are making sure they provide the riders with cold thirst-quenching water when they arrive to pick up an order. Behind the scenes, the same intelligent

software that handles your deliveries plans the riders routes and pickups to make sure that ride time is kept as short as possible, so riders are not overly exposed to sun or heat. Riders actually on average spend as much time waiting inside the restaurant for the order to be prepped as they spend on the road to a customer. We will be keeping extra bottles of water in the fridge so the next time we use the Deliveroo app we can thank them with a refreshing cold drink as a simple and very humble way to show our gratitude to these heroes.

Follow Deliveroo on Instagram @deliveroo_kw or visit deliveroo.com.kw for more information. Download the app, on the App Store or Google Play for quick and easy delivery from all of your favorite restaurants.


®

TRY OUR BBQ MENU NOW BBQ CHICK’N SHACK BBQ SHACKMEISTER BURGER

Shack shake

BBQ VEAL BACON & CHEESE FRIES AVAILABLE FOR TAKEAWAY AND DELIVERY THROUGH:


LANGUAGE IN THE TIME OF CORONA

The evolution of COVID-19 slang By bazaar staff

When we were wee things still in school, we were taught the rigid and unbending rules of language. One simply did not change sentence structure willy nilly or create new words. And no for the young ones in the back, it is not because we are old, people have been inventing new words since Shakespeare held a quill. But, with the ubiquity of the internet, and recent lockdown related meltdowns, the proliferation of new words has reached peak levels.

Someone thinks of something new, texts it or tweets it and it goes viral, the next thing you know we’re all saying things like yeet and chillax as if we’ve always used them. We actually appreciate the fluidity of language and think that the more words we have to describe our experience, the richer our lives become. There’s also the devolution of language with the rise of the emoji, but that’s another story for another day. Nothing adds new words to the vernacular as quickly as a collective experience like a pandemic. Without giving it much thought we’ve been picking up these words and using them because they help us explain, endure and cope with the situation. Here are some of our favorite new words so far: Covidiot An idiot in the time of Corona, similar to a Morona. We’re not sure who started using it, but Urban Dictionary user you’reandidiot added it on the 16th of March. His username checks out. Coronapocalypse Jon Evans appears to have coined the term when he used it in a TechCrunch article dated the 2nd of February explaining why people are under and overreacting to the pandemic. The public does love a good end-of-the-world story so the world caught on like wildfire. CoronaCancel This has been floating around our casual conversations these days. It first started before lockdown and airports closing, when people were simply canceling plans and practicing social distancing. You can CoronaCancel your attendance, your flights, and well, your social life for the foreseeable future.

76

Infodemic The World Health Organization might have been the first to use the word to complain that the pandemic was causing the quick spread of too much information. Iso Not to be confused with the International Organization for Standardization, #iso has been floating around our Insta feeds and refers to isolation, or self-isolation in the time of Corona. #iso is about what you’re doing while practicing physical distancing, or aspirational isolation goals. What are your #isolationgoals? DoomScrolling We’re definitely guilty of constantly scrolling through all the terrible news. We blame Aza Raskin, but at least he apologized. Feed Fatigue It is not really a new word, but we’ve been feeling the effects right now in a way like never before. Everything from sourdough starters to scaremongering on our feed is stressing us out right now.

Coronacation It appears that @kyla_vo was the first to use it on twitter, to describe the involuntary and unpaid vacation she got because of the pandemic. Morona See Covidiot, above. Zooming Remember when we used to use this term in sentences in reference to motion? “I saw him zooming past the stop sign.” Sigh. Well, Zooming now refers to those endless Zoom calls and meetings. Due to the increase of lockdown measures, our lives went digital, and that’s not entirely a bad thing. Video chat platforms like Zoom facilitate work from home situations, distance learning, and connecting with our loved ones, near and far.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash.


‫‪Solia‬‬

‫أﻃﺒﺎق اﻟﺒﺤﺮ ا ﺑﻴﺾ اﻟﻤﺘﻮﺳﻂ ﻓﻲ ﻣﻜﺎن واﺣﺪ!‬ ‫!‪A taste of The Mediterranean, all in one place‬‬ ‫‪The Avenues, Phase 4‬‬ ‫‪Murouj, Sahara‬‬

‫ا ﻓـــﻨــﻴــــــﻮز اﻟﻤﺮﺣﻠــﻪ ‪٤‬‬ ‫ﻣـــﺮوج‪ ،‬ﺻﺤــﺎرى‬


MAKING STAYCATIONS X-CITE-ING X-cite helping us stay entertained, active and safe By bazaar staff

It’s been a rough couple of months to say the least. Staying entertained, active, safe and alive (some dark humor) has been on the top of our to-do lists, and while there are plenty of Youtube and TikTok videos that will supply us with ideas to pass time, we want to be the creators of our experiences. And seeing that we’re probably staying put for the rest of the summer in K-town, we thankfully have X-cite to turn to for amazing staycation options! In an effort to stay entertained, X-cite has been our go-to electronics provider for quite some time now. Giving us phones, tablets, laptops, TV ‘s and many other things to choose from. In a time where entertainment is needed just as bad as a cave man needs a pedicure, here are some of our favorites in the Stay Entertained category:

Apple TV: Watch your favorite shows on Apple TV with this device. With shows exclusive to Apple’s video streaming service, you will always be up to date with award-winning series, compelling dramas, groundbreaking documentaries, kids' entertainment, comedies, and more.

78

Wansa 55-inch UHD Smart LED TV: How about a brand-new TV with an official Android operating system? The TV is smart, reliable and will surely help pass all the time you have at home. Load your Netflix shows, cast your Google Cast or connect to your Air Play, all in Ultra HD.

Digital Cards: Whether you need a Google Play, PlayStation/ Xbox or iTunes card to help supply you with your preferred dose of entertainment, X-cite offers digital cards that can be purchased. Simply go on their website, purchase the card and the code will be sent to you digitally for activation. Digital cards are also available for purchase inside stores.


Now, let’s be real. Staying inside has made many of us lazy, which in turn has made us feel like the gym is an unidentifiable territory at this point. Even if gyms open back up soon, the thought of a visit where you are surrounded by so many sweaty, germ-carrying people might not be in the books for many. If you are one of them, we have you covered, start your own safe gym experience at home with X-cite’s Stay Active:

Wansa Treadmill: We all know that running is amazing for giving your energy levels that extra boost. It is also so important for your health, as it can keep your immunity strong, and prevent you from falling ill. This treadmill will allow you to remain active, in the comfort of your own home.

Adidas Foam Roller: Exercising can make your muscles sore, which can make it more difficult to work on certain things. Instead of going in for a massage, buy a foam roller to roll out your muscles before or after an exercise! These can help relieve muscle tightness, soreness, and inflammation, as well as increase joint range of motion.

Tanita Bluetooth Wireless Body Composition Scale: This scale is unlike any scale in the market! With the latest FDA cleared MultiFrequency bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) technology, it provides an in-depth analysis of body composition readings. This includes weight, body fat, muscle and bone mass, visceral fat, daily calorie intake(dci), metabolic age, total body water, as well as BMI. Connect this to your phone to keep your measurements saved!

Probably the most important category, X-cite offers many different products that can help keep those nasty germs away. So, whether you need to keep an eye on your body temperature, need to purify your surroundings or prefer to own a sterilizing machine to staycate safely, we got you covered. Stay Safe by purchasing:

Contec Medical Infrared: A contactless fever detector that can get temperatures as super high precision, so you know you’re getting an accurate reading every time. Even better, this thermometer automatically shuts down after 5 seconds of no use and is able to turn back on using one button. So, you can take multiple measurements without having to wait for older ones to disappear.

Dyson Pure Cool Purifying Fan: A fan that wirelessly connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, senses pollutants and removes 99.97% of microscopic allergens and pollutants. This purifying fan delivers powerful purified air throughout the whole room without cooling. There is also a night-time mode which purifies using quiet settings that can be monitored through the Dyson Link app.

Multi-Purpose Sterilizer Machine: You know how they say your phone is actually dirtier than a toilet seat? Now, all denial aside no one wants to be carrying around and spreading nasty bacteria, especially not now. This machine provides UV-C light kills bacteria on the surface of anything the light reaches. So, any phone, remote, keys, credit card and so much more can be sterilized using this device.

For a comprehensive list of X-cite’s 40 store locations and to shop online for the latest deals visit www.xcite.com.Download the X-cite app for Android on Google Play or iPhone on the App Store. Follow X-cite social media accounts on Instagram @XciteAlghanim, Twitter @XciteAlghanim, and Facebook: XcitebyAlghanim. Call 180 3535 for further enquiries.

79


REVAMP YOUR CLOSET

We’re slowly starting to socialize again. Is your closet ready? By bazaar staff

Okay, we know that Marie Kondo might not be everyone’s cup of tea (okay, maybe it’s just me) when it comes to decluttering your life, and in turn, your closet. Why? Because sometimes, ALL your clothes give you joy, and that’s fine. You want to live with 20 pairs of denims because each one speaks to you and tells a different story. We’re not here to judge, it’s your choice. But, you can still give your closet a good GROOMING. Here are some quick tips to help you get started. Consult your tribe. You can do this while safely getting together with your nearest and dearest, or you can do this digitally. FaceTime your friends, use Houseparty, Zoom, or any mode of video chat you prefer. Your besties won’t lie to you. They’ll help you make the hard choices to part with the items that are really becoming a waste of space and could go to goodwill. Plus, a support system is always great to have when saying goodbye to pieces that are way past their prime. Bonus: Prep some snacks ahead of time and you’ll find that several hours have passed as both you and your friends graze on popcorn and talk outfit inspo. Donate what you can. You’ve said your goodbyes, made your peace with some dearly departed wardrobe pieces and jumped on the capsulecollection bandwagon. Congratulations! What do you do with the overwhelming amount of sweaters that you’ll never wear again? Put them to good use! Donate them! Wardrobe Swap Party- but make it digital. Remember those classic wardrobe swap parties where one person’s discarded Halston Heritage gown is another girl’s dream must have? We all get bored of our clothes, so why not consider this sustainable way of revamping your closet? Here’s how you digitally adapt the swap party: Prep the closet pieces you’re not into anymore ahead of time, once online, take turns and agree on all the swap terms. Once you’ve all decided who is keeping what, you’ll each have some amazing new wardrobe options! Create outfit combinations. Ever wondered what that summery, lemon-print strappy dress would look like with your favorite Pink Floyd t-shirt? Well, now is the time to experiment! Don’t be afraid to try out different outfit combinations to see which pieces work best for your closet. It’s a fantastic exercise in personal style, plus, you end up better evaluating your future buys.. Tip: Take pictures of your outfit combos using a full-length mirror, you sometimes make better outfit decisions when looking at a photo rather than in realtime and you have the added benefit of having an outfit inspiration album saved on your phone for later. 80

Consider your investment pieces. Comb through your collection of black trousers and really think about which ones you’ve been wearing the most and ask yourself why. Is it the comfort factor? Does the cut work with more tops? Repeat this process with other recurring items, and then rearrange them in that preferred order of wearing. You’ll notice that the clothes you wear the most, at the forefront, are your key investment wardrobe pieces. The same can be said of your more valuable items. You’ve spent two month’s rent on that dream Celine bag, only to notice that you barely wear it. Perhaps reselling would be a wiser choice and the money would be better spent elsewhere. Consider spending your money on well-made, quality garments, shoes and accessories. You will notice that you get the most repeat wear out of them as they withstand trends and will carry your wardrobe from one season to the next. Check out DIY revamp hacks. A closet revamp doesn’t need to be expensive, and you also do not require a walk-in closet. If you’re tight on space, I advise you to consult the wonderful world of Pinterest

for some amazing hacks. There are some really clever people in this world who are doing amazing closet revamps on $100 budgets. Buy organizational tools. I always smile at the thought of drawer organizers and storage boxes. It makes my inner Monica super happy. In my book, if you have space, and your favorite items can live prettily and well preserved in a box, then so be it. This protects your stuff for longer, and a good closet doesn’t mean that everything needs to be on display via a hanger. If you really did that, many cashmere sweaters would be on the verge of ruin, so invest in hanging drawer organizers and boxes of all shapes and sizes. They make all the difference. I apply this to more valuable bags and shoes, as well as special gifts, hats, and keepsakes. I might have taken over my husband’s closet to achieve this goal, but that’s beside the point. If you’re looking for different storage solutions, I highly recommend that you check out websites like Lawazm and IKEA for clever storage solutions! Image by Latrach Med Jamil on Unsplash.


elevation

‫اﻃﻠﺐ ا ن‬

www.OrderElevationKW.com


TROLLEY TO THE RESCUE

Your friendly neighborhood convenience store By bazaar staff

One of the hardest things about lock down and the curfew was getting our groceries and the things we needed in a pinch. We normally don’t think twice about popping into the supermarket or stopping at random baqalas. However, when the world shut down we felt lost. A lot of our delivery and convenience store options became inaccessible, and that is where Trolley stepped in. The chain of convenience stores was founded in 2010 and branches have been popping up in private universities and malls. But the real game changer was when they started making their way to gas stations. With over 50 branches, there is likely going to be a branch near you, some of which operated 24/7 during this pandemic. When you spot the bright orange sign you know that your day is about to get much better. The stores offer a large range of everyday items and necessities. Our favorite thing is their ready-made food section. Freshly made meals from different brands sits cheerfully in the Trolley fridge. The range is quite varied and works for whatever your dietary needs are. You can grab Keto, Paleo or vegetarian dishes, that are clearly marked with nutritional information. During lock down when getting fresh produce was difficult, we could always find a crunchy colorful salad at Trolley. We also stocked up on sandwiches, wraps and packed lunches. You can also order via Talabat, Carriage or Jeebley, but we love browsing the aisles. Trolley was one of the first brands to recognize the importance of hygiene during the pandemic. They quickly responded by limiting the number of customers inside stores, offering hand sanitizer at entry and exit and checking customer's temperature at the door even before these precautions became mandatory. The staff can also be seen regularly disinfecting their hands before and after serving each customer. You can even pick up masks, gloves, face shields and hand sanitizers in every bottle size imaginable. And don’t forget about pre-COVID-19 personal hygiene. You can find the essentials like toothpaste, toothbrushes, band aids and wet wipes. Trolley is a lifesaver when it comes to these important basics, but they can also save you from boredom. Every store stocks a fun selection of board and card games that are perfect for passing the long hours of curfew. Many of the games featured were designed by local game makers, making them even more interesting and relevant to us. That’s not all. We were all reliant on our phones and devices to connect us to our friends and family so a busted charging cable was a disaster especially that the big electronics retailers were closed or only able to deliver after 3-5 days. No need to fret, you can find cables, plugs, power banks and other phone accessories at most Trolley branches too. We came to rely on Trolley and their friendly staff, but we also kept going back to stock up on our favorite 82

snacks, candy and drinks. We even tried new coffee blends and protein bars. And our new favorite obsession is the frozen cookie dough that you can bake at home. Who knew that baking a single cookie when the cravings hit would be the most beautiful thing in the world?

To find a Trolley near you visit trolley.com.kw or order online via Talabat, Carriage, Deliveroo, Mashkor and Jeebley. Follow them on Instagram @trolley_kw for more information.


Khaneen


bazaar hit list

HITLIST - THE LOCK DOWN EDITION The highs and lows on the COVID-19 rollercoaster By bazaar staff

Lockdown was an emotional rollercoaster for most of us. We have experienced everything from fear, uncertainty, stress to apathy and even contentment and acceptance. We acknowledge our privilege in general and are grateful for the many things we do have but we have also had to mourn friends, loved ones and missed experiences. We’re a sarcastic bunch, but we’re also old (and wise) enough to know that the only possible path is forward, so we choose to look at the situation with objectivity and to celebrate our wins (like finding onions) and to learn from our mistakes (not saving enough money for the future in times of abundance). After quiet contemplation the bazaar team has come up with their best and worst moments. Farah (Mixed Media Content) Low: My low point was definitely when we went under full lockdown. I think being unable to leave the house even if you don’t have any plans was hard to fathom. Letting go of any control and really surrendering to the circumstances was a work in progress, but hey we got there! High: Experimenting with different types of recipes and really getting to know what activities I enjoy doing in my spare time. I felt like this time off really re-introduced me to myself again. It was the unplugging I didn't know I needed. Jennifer Cádiz (Mixed Media Solutions) Low: (honest) Experiencing my first ever seizure and blacking out, probably due to the fact I’d not been looking after myself when it came to food and nourishment, was definitely a low point. I realized if something truly awful happened to me, there wouldn’t be anyone to help me, and who would notice or when would they? A thoroughly sobering thought. We die alone. Low: (lighthearted) Wearing through my favorite pair of Swiss on running sneakers at exactly the point when taxis were taken off the streets. My cool looking lifestyle sneakers don’t really do much good when walking miles, unless blister upon blister is the desired effect. High: The stranger who made me burst into tears because they gave me a disposable mask so I could enter the supermarket I’d had to walk to in the heat in order to buy the cat food I needed, the friend who gave me a reusable facemask which completely changed my experience so I was able to go outside more often, friends going out of their way to give me homemade

84

meals, and lifts back from the supermarket. The generosity, kindness and humanity of it all. So while people can be awful and I despise them, people can also be wonderful and I love them. Umika Pidaparthy (Online Producer) Low: Seeing the ever-increasing number of COVID-19 cases was and still is scary and nightmarish. Healthcare workers globally have been hard at work battling the virus and many countries have managed to gain control. But the crisis at its peak was definitely paralyzing and the rising sense of panic and fear was definitely a low point for me, as I’m sure it is/was for many others. Until the pandemic ceases to be a pandemic, we just have to continue grasping onto hope! High: I am grateful that I was able to have a few wins during this time. I was able to deep clean my apartment, make major strides in a work project, and connect with family members and friends, some of whom I had not talked to in a very long time, and have conversations that went beyond the usual small talk. But the one I am most proud of was actually completing an online course that I had heard a lot about and bookmarked, but never got around to doing because of, well, life. In fact completing that course gave me the confidence to tackle other things I had meant to do and develop new healthy habits, which during the pandemic is definitely a privilege! Yasmine El Charif (Content Manager) Low: The physical and psychological implications of full lockdown were hard. Being separated from my mom for close to six months also took a huge

toll, as she has always been an enormous source of support for me. But really, the lowest point was seeing how people have deeply struggled in locked down areas, and the social and economic strife which ensued. People say we’re all in the same boat, but we truly are not. We’re all exploring uncharted waters, and some people are better equipped with state-of-the-art yachts, and others are barely staying afloat. If I learned anything, it is to always check your sense of privilege before considering offering a judgement to someone. High: Nonetheless, you try and see the positive in everything. Always. I got to experience so many firsts with my little one, as working from home provided me with this invaluable opportunity. I am forever grateful for this time. Yasmin Gamal (Mixed Media Creator) Low: Worrying about the future was definitely the worst. I generally refuse to dwell on the past or think too much about what is to come. But the pandemic forced me to reflect on life and what might happen, especially all the worst case scenarios. I would catch myself making imaginary plans for all of my nightmares. I recognize and am grateful for my privilege, but that doesn’t make my personal losses any less real to me. High: Katsu Chicken Curry! Yes, I found a foolproof recipe that works every time and uses ingredients that are usually stocked in my pantry or fridge. While other people were finding comfort in baking banana bread and raising their sourdough starter pets, I was craving spices and heat. The rich, thick curry sauce was an instant hit at home and got a spot on our weekly dinner menu rotation.


FIRE IT UP WITH OUR NEW LARGE Blaze PIZZAS! Available through delivery:


IMMUNITY SERIES: BACK TO THE OFFICE Delicious snacks that will keep you full and flourishing By bazaar staff

Now more than ever, many people are watching the way they eat and the things that they eat. As medical professionals recommend keeping your immunity up by refraining from things that might contribute to the development of infections and diseases, it has become everybody’s mission to educate themselves on topics related to Nutrition and wellness. With that being said, for those of you back to work now, we have curated a list of meals that will keep you full and boost your immunity. DRINK ON-THE-GO For the caffeine junkies who can’t part with coffee, we thought we could provide you with an immunity shot version of it. Since most of our breakfasts are caffeine loaded, consisting of on the go coffee, this caffeine- free option will give you the immunity boost you need in the morning, minus the jitters. Introducing Turmeric Tea! Immune Boosting Turmeric Tea To make the tea, add five cups of water to a pot along with thin slices of fresh ginger root and turmeric. Don’t forget to add one crack of fresh black pepper to activate the turmeric. Next, add the peel from one lemon (minus the yucky white bitter part), and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Wait for the water to simmer and immediately reduce it to the lowest heat setting possible. Boiling this tea will only kill off some of the nutrients (which we don’t want happening). Keep on the stove for seven minutes and then turn off the heat. Once off the burner, add the juice of 1 lemon. Once the drink has cooled down for a few minutes, pour a cup and stir in raw honey or a natural sweetener to taste. ITS BREAK TIME, FOLKS For lunch time, try to keep your lunch simple to avoid a chaotic morning. If possible, prep your lunch the night before so you are able to truly look at the different components of your meals and aren’t missing out on any nutrients. Strawberry and Arugula Salad Fruits are an amazing natural source of sugar (earth’s candy) and strawberries are known to be great for your immune system (unless you’re allergic, then please opt out). We like to pair them with some arugula, basil and black rice and make a pretty lunch plate out of it. Black rice is a god sent, and since it doesn’t undergo any processing or refining, we are always sold! Of course, we can’t forget to credit our phytonutrient, fresh basil leaves!

86

Green Matcha Smoothie If you’ve had a heart healthy, heavy breakfast by now and you had a light option for lunch, we recommend this juicy smoothie to help offset the summer weather. This Matcha, banana and pineapple smoothie with kale has high antioxidant quality and the pineapple twist will make you feel like you are sipping your favorite drink on the beach. To make this smoothie, add one banana, a cup of fresh pineapple, a cup of kale (or spinach), ½ cup of any nut milk and ½ teaspoon of Matcha powder to a blender. Top it off with a squeeze of lemon and a handful of ice cubes and blend! Make sure you Instagram it and tag us @bazaargram or it didn’t happen. Also make sure you use the hashtags #vegan and #glutenfree because we’re about that life. If your office is not so blender friendly, check out our other options online! Golden Goddess Hummus The name of this hummus says it all, Golden Goddess Hummus. It consists of a beautiful blend of chickpeas, turmeric and ginger which makes for the tastiest immune boost you need. To make this: drain a can of chickpeas and add to a blender, on top of that add the juice of 1lemon, three tablespoons of tahini, two garlic cloves, one teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, ½ a teaspoon of freshly grated

turmeric, ¼ tsp ground turmeric, ½ sea salt. Add a bit of olive oil or water (1-2 tbsp) to create a creamier texture. If you’d like to be extra, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This can be enjoyed as a side dish, snack or pair with some fresh veggies and you’ve got yourself an amazing dip. Roasted Broccoli Sweet Potato Chickpea Salad For another delicious salad option that is loaded with vitamins and minerals, we recommend pairing roasted broccoli, with sweet potatoes and chickpeas. The only downside to this recipe is that you most likely will need to prepare it in advance as roasting the veggies may take you a min! For the dressing try coming plain hummus (or left-over from the recipe above) with garlic, dill and lemon juice and whisk until you’ve reached an appropriate texture you like. Feel free to add water to make it pourable. To serve, drizzle dressing on top or serve on the side.

For more immunity boosters, check out our other health articles on bazaar.town. Recipe inspiration and credits from the minimilastbaker.com, feastingathome.com and flavcity.com


Canes


EGRET-EO BLASTER V2 NOW IN KUWAIT

Getting salty on germs with non-toxic professional sanitization By bazaar staff

Who knew that instead of buying loads of different detergents in all those plastic bottles you could just invest in one item, use water, add table salt and be just as effective at cleaning? Some of you may remember the school science experiment where you drop a battery into a jar of salt water and it degrades. The reaction turns the water into a weak acid which can be used as a sanitizer for all sorts of surfaces. This is known as electrolyzed or EO water. Electro-Chemical Activation (ECA) has been around for decades for industrial uses, but only recently has it become available for at-home use. The active patented device is housed in a handy 800ml sized, ergonomically designed spray bottle. The size means the bottle is not too heavy to hold while providing enough solution to spray over a large surface area without refilling. Add a measure of salt using the spoon provided to water, switch on and in only 3 minutes the Egret-EO Blaster V2 electrode will get to work. The charger cable is included and you can produce three different levels of electrolyzed water which is 100% natural, non-toxic, safe for kids and pets and yet sterilizes and deodorizes surfaces, removes pesticides, and deodorizes the air! You can use level 1 on produce whereas level 3 is strong enough for bathrooms. Plus the electrode has an estimated life expectancy of 3 years when used three times a day, which is 2400ml of cleaning solution daily. You only need shelf space for one bottle with Egret! You can just as effectively use the Egret-EO Blaster V2 on a carpeted surface as a tiled one, you can use it on your car and it is even safe to use on your fruit and vegetables. Just rinse before eating. That’s a great comfort these days when you don’t know if the person touching the produce you’re bringing into your home has been diligently observing COVID-19 health and safety precautions. Fine particles which can be inhaled by humans and animals exacerbating issues with asthma, and other respiratory problems get blasted with use by eliminating PM2.5 air pollution. In Kuwait where the Air Quality Index rarely indicates low levels of PM2.5, this is a further level of protection for you. Another advantage of using the Egret-EO Blaster V2 is that you know exactly what is in EO water and how safe as well as effective it is.

88

We managed to get our hands on an Egret-EO Blaster V2 and it is super easy to use. The back light of the power button indicates the charge left. A USB charging cable is provided and fits into a hidden port in the end of the handle. Switching on the Egret, we immediately saw bubbles of activity in the salt water solution. After waiting long enough to produce level 3 EO water we were good to start spraying down everything in sight. I had filled the bottle to the indicated maximum amount which is 800ml. Hardly anything had been used up from the water well even though I felt like I’d been spraying loads! The spray is so fine and powerful that you get excellent coverage with only a small usage of milliliters. It did get a little heavy after I’d been spraying for a while. I think that because it was so much fun to use, I probably used it for much longer than I would normally. There was a slight chlorine smell which only one of my colleagues objected to, and that’s most likely because she was sitting at the desk we were spraying at the time.

There is some aftercare for the Egret. One you’re done for the day, empty out the water well and the barrel by pressing the spray trigger until nothing is coming out. Other than these steps the Egret is a good consideration if you no longer want to buy single use plastic bottles nor use chemicals that could be harmful. I had no concerns when I got some spraywash on my skin, but had it been anything else I was cleaning with, I would have wanted to wash my skin immediately. The Egret EO Blaster V2 seems safe, simple to use, and perfect for those of you expecting to return to school and university, or returning to Kuwait from abroad. No doubt using a tried and tested sanitization process will put your mind at ease as well as physically protect you, loved ones and colleagues. bazaar approved!

To order your Egret-EO Blaster V2 go to Instagram and check out @egret.kw.


Ahmed tea


THE HAPPIEST BEDROOM Play, sleep, learn, relax and daydream the Pottery Barn Kids way By bazaar staff

Kids are resilient, and their sense of adaptability is an astounding feat to observe. They tackle challenges with a refreshing mindset, even if their perception of normal life has been altered as of late. From socializing with friends online, embracing new ways of creative play at home, to continuing their education online, we’re looking to the little ones for inspiration on how to tackle adversity in our adult lives. No one understands this best like Pottery Barn Kids (PBK), as the brand is built around creating furniture that perfectly adapts to children’s needs. They understand that your child’s bedroom is more than just a place to sleep. It’s where they will spend their time playing, learning, relaxing and daydreaming. 90


Fun, functional and most importantly, safe, PBK believes that building the perfect space for children should be easy. They go to great lengths to design and create products that are both stylish and problem-solving. In doing so, they are giving children the ideal space to thrive, no matter what’s going on in the outside world. Once they’ve entered their personal home space, they are guaranteed a safe, healthy and happy space to grow. Now more than ever, every parent wants their children’s space to be comfy, cozy and safe. PBK delivers on the promise of the healthiest bedroom, as their products are crafted to promote cleaner air and are healthier on the environment on a larger scale. All of PBK’s furniture adheres to the strictest safety and environmental standards, with most furniture lines being GREENGUARD Gold Certified, meaning their materials have low chemical emissions throughout the home. It doesn’t end here, as PBK also offers a vast array of organic Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) and Better Cotton Initiative certification (BCI)-certified bedding and textiles. This ensures that cottons are responsibly sourced, and contain no chemicals in the creation process, ensuring the safest and softest fabrics and textiles for your little ones. The space to play Whether playing alone or with their siblings, having the space for independent play fosters a positive environment for children. While your little ones might be spending more time indoors these days, now is perhaps the perfect opportunity to enhance their space with more playtime opportunities. The latest research also supports this notion, as independent play teaches children self-reliance, encourages their creativity and imagination, and even improves focus. It all begins with the right playtable, consider it your children’s blank canvas to daydream and discover independently. The Carolina Grow-with-you Activity Table is as fun as it is functional. PBK knows that the kids grow up fast, so with its adjustable heights, the Carolina activity table will grow with your little one, allowing space for rolling, undertable storage carts, and adding play chairs to perfect the set up. Turn the storage carts into already-set up sensory bins, and there will be plenty more play time on hand! Designate storage for crayons, blocks and craft materials, and let their imaginations take the lead. Lunchtime? The Carolina Activity Table can double for meal times too. Sometimes, your kid just wants to relax

with a good read, or they just want to sit and let their minds wander a little longer before bedtime, and this is how the Anywhere Chair perfectly fits in. Available in three sizes, give your little ones a chair that’s entirely their own, as the super cozy comfy, and movable Anywhere Chair looks amazing wherever it is placed in your home. Give your little one a sense of true ownership of their Anywhere Chair by taking advantage of PBK’s amazing monogramming service. Are your little ones aspiring kitchen

helpers? Have them play along as you set up for dinner or the next family Friday meal with their dedicated Play Kitchen! The Retro Kitchen set at PBK is every little chef’s dream come true, complete with a stove, oven, sink and refrigerator, every little detail is taken into account. There’s a pot rack for hanging little pans, the sink is watertight to prevent spills, the stove knobs all make real clicking sounds when turned, and two burners offer more play value for siblings to imagine the perfect meal together.

[Continued...]

91


The space to learn, imagine and create With the real possibility of distance learning becoming a part of the ‘new normal’, it is imperative to foster a nurturing space for your children to study at home. Whether they’re back to school this fall or not, having a routine while at home is paramount to giving little ones a sense of normalcy. Remind your little one of why they love their desk at school so much with the solid mahogany framed Filmore Desk and Hutch. This beautiful desk will last your child from zoom classes at home and all the way throughout high-school, and is GREENGUARD Gold certified to put your mind at ease when considering how much time your child will spend at their desk. Let them personalize their space with their favorite books, and put up pictures of their schoolmates up on the desk’s pinboard, perfectly placed to help organize their day. Complete the back-to-school vibes with their favorite Backpacks for them to store all of the school items, pencil cases and tablet holders. The backpack, pencil case and lunch bag collections in PBK span every style your child could possibly like, from unicorns, underwater themes, to Disney and space exploration, they will be surely spoiled for choice! Recreate the school lunchtime at school experience at home with fun and functional bento boxes, food containers and reusable water bottles. Let the little ones actively participate in organizing their favorite school items in the Cameron 4-Shelf bookcase. Dedicate a space for plush toys, school books and binders, keepsakes and more with this gorgeous bookshelf. The space to relax and sleep After a full day of learning, playing and imagining, having the coziest haven to make sleep time fun is always guaranteed with PBK. With safety underlying PBK’s furniture creation process, you can rest assured that there are plenty of GREENGUARD Gold-certified choices to contribute to cleaner air quality in their bedrooms, and we’re sharing some of our favorites below. Whether they are sharing the bedroom with siblings or they have their own rooms, you’ll find a bed to suit every child’s needs at PBK from amazing bunk beds. The Catalina Stair Loft Bed and Lower bed set or the Belden TwinOver-Full Stair Loft Bed offer great solutions for shared and smaller spaces, whereas the Belden Twin bed or Ava Regency Bed are ideal for individual sleeping arrangements. The dreamy Treehouse Loft Bed instantly makes sleep time more fun, as your child can climb up into their very own treehouse and feel like they’ve escaped to another world. Getting ready for bed with a fun bath is

92

[...Continued]

an experience loved by most kids, and the hooded towels available at PBK come in the cutest prints and are woven from 100% cotton terry velour for ultimate softness. Little details like the 3-D horn and multi-colored mane and tassels in the magical Unicorn hooded bath towel inject the right amount of fun after bath time, and can be used at the beach when the little ones are off to play at the chalet for the weekend. Complete the bedtime routine with organic cotton pyjamas for the comfiest sleep possible. Snoozing off into dreamland couldn’t be easier. When it comes to PBK’s cotton offerings, the

Better Cotton Initiative certification ensures that the cotton fibers you’re purchasing follow the strictest social and environmental management principles. PBK’s bedding is also GOTS-certified, meeting the gold standard of textile production. This also applies to PBK’s wide range of bedding and textiles available in myriad designs to suit every kid’s bedtime dream space.

Visit Pottery Barn Kids at 1st Avenue- The Avenues. You can also shop Pottery Barn Kids online at www.potterybarnkids.com.kw.


Trolley


bazaar weekends

NEW MALL ETIQUETTE

Please follow the rules because we don’t want to go back to phase 1 By bazaar staff

We’ve been patiently waiting for the second phase of the reopening plan to start. After months of being locked down at home we’re ready for a change of scenery and to be able to run errands and shop for the things we need. Since it looks like most of our summer plans have taken a huge hit, we plan on creating our own staycations right here in K-Town, which hopefully include some mall walking, window shopping and trying new-to-us restaurants… That being said, there is still a pandemic going on, so vigilance is still important. Here are some of the basics that we all need to keep in mind when we visit our favorite haunts. Read the guidelines The best place to start is to make sure you are aware of all the new rules, precautions and guidelines. Please read the instruction manuals for re-opening for different malls that are usually shared on their socials so you have a better understanding of what to expect. Follow the rules If someone stops you at the entrance and asks to check your temperature or reminds you to put on your mask, please do it without complaint. We know that these changes are not pleasant but they are our best

94

defense against COVID-19 and the only way to speed up our return to more “normal” ways of life. Cash is no longer king It took a pandemic to dethrone the king of currency. Paper money is notorious for being dirty and a single bill might be handled by thousands of people over its lifespan, happily spreading germs and pathogens as it is being spent. Credit and debit cards are not squeaky clean either, but are much easier to disinfect. And if you use the contactless machines your odds are much better. Then there’s the matter of tips. We don’t want to discourage you, as so many are in need, so please use gloves when handling cash. If you’re expecting a delivery at home, and wish to tip, do set aside some change for this and wear gloves when handing over cash. Look for the signs The writing will be on the wall or on the floor. It will tell you what direction you need to move in or which way to face. Sigh!, if only the rest of life was this clear. Be considerate of others Leave enough distance between yourself and everyone else. This applies whether you are standing in a queue or walking around. Be patient, gracious and kind. The only way out of this is through it. Accept the changes We’re still not sure how the new restrictions will affect

the overall experience, but we do know that things will be different. For example seating areas and benches might be closed off and some areas might be restricted. So please don’t demand exceptions for yourself. It is not fair for the rest of us. Forget about smoking We all have our vices, so we’re not judging. But smoking areas and rooms will be closed off, so do get your nicotine fix outside before you enter the mall. Take the stairs Malls have been instructed to minimize the number of elevator passengers and to make sure that they can remain distant. It might be better to just take the stairs, just don’t touch the hand railings and if you do remember to use hand sanitizer. Be extra nice to the staff They are not the ones making the rules, and they are probably more scared and stressed than you are. They have to deal with hundreds of customers every, so there is no need to make it harder on them. A kind word and a nod (since they won’t be able to see your friendly smile behind the mask) is the least you can do to thank them for their service.

Photo by Victor Xok on Unsplash.


one butter


kuwait kulture

SLOW SUSTAINABILITY

Saving ourselves from the sea of plastic By bazaar staff

We love shopping and eating out but we often feel guilty because of the environmental costs. However, over the years we have been seeing a slow but sure behavioral shift towards greener lifestyles in Kuwait. Pre Covid-19, more of us at bazaar were reaching for their reusable water bottles instead of disposable ones. Some of us were refusing plastic bags when we did our groceries and instead opted for reusable tote bags. And we know that it is not just us, because we have noticed that there are so many local establishments that are making the switch to more sustainable options. This is more relevant now than it has ever been, because of our fear of getting diseases more people are leaning towards single use items like masks, gloves and small bottles of hand sanitizer. What’s even worse, is that some people seem to think they can just discard these wherever they please. We would like to invite you to consider more environmentally friendly options instead because this might be our way of life for the foreseeable future and the environment should not be paying the price. Try fabric masks, or buying hand sanitizer in bulk and decanting it in smaller reusable containers instead. Despite everything we’re still really proud of the local brands who are moving in the right direction and are making the necessary changes that reduce our consumption and waste in different industries. Kuwait might not be Paris or Milan, but we definitely are a country of fashion lovers. Just take a quick stroll in the Avenues and you will see that everyone loves putting together a fabulous outfit. And while we are not ready to break up with our favorite fashion giants, we are seeing more slow-fashion brands popping up. From brands like Maya (@mayaeco) that focus on sustainably produced items to the thrift store Odette’s Closet (@odettes_closette) and NAZ World (@world.naz) that offers rentals, consumers now have so many different options. We still wish we could own ALL THE THINGS, but we keep telling ourselves that we won’t buy more because we care about the planet. Food packaging is another huge polluter, and thanks to social media we’re now more aware of the effect of plastic straws on sea turtles. So many restaurants and cafes have stopped using single use plastic and have replaced them with paper, bamboo or other biodegradable materials. You can also easily find and purchase your own reusable straw from Ao (@ao.kwt). They also have green

96

options for everyday items like toothbrushes and razors. We are pretty attached to our canvas bags from The Untitled Bag (@theuntitledbag_kw) that are screen-printed with local snazzy designs. If you feel that these are all small changes, the Trash Tag team (@trashtagkuwait) are out there cleaning up our beaches. They are leveraging the power of large numbers to clean up large areas in short spans of time by bringing people together. In a recent edition of bazaar tries, we joined in and realized that not only is it a lot of fun, it can be very rewarding. It can also be an eye opener. Even if you don’t litter (which we hope you aren’t), plastic is very difficult to get rid of and it is just easier to not use it in the first place.

We have also been seeing more electric vehicle charging points popping up all over Kuwait and more automakers marketing their cars in the region. We’re sure that change is not going to happen overnight but it is heartening to see that things are finally moving in the right direction. We don’t know about you, but we really want to enjoy fresh air and clean beaches for as long as we are alive, so let’s all do our part.

You can help too! If you know of a business or an initiative that helps us make better choices please let us know. Photo by Brian Yurasits on Unsplash.


BY

dilmah

@Dilmah_kw

The Avenues


HARRY POTTER X H&M Take a mystical trip down to Hogwarts with the new H&M kids collab! By bazaar staff

The latest H&M kids wear capsule collection is inspired by the immensely popular and critically acclaimed Harry Potter Film series. Dropping August 6th, the collection will include a range of children’s clothing and accessories. From newborns to young teens, there’s something in the collection for everyone! The line will include graphic prints, playful embellishments and fashion-forward looks that will be available in store and online.

“We’re absolutely thrilled about this Harry Potter collection – the magic of the stories is truly universal and continues to inspire so many kids (and adults!) today. Revolving around Hogwarts, we wanted to convey with this collection the joy and excitement of the Wizarding World and also add fun touches such as some athleticstyle graphics, illustrations of Hedwig the owl and gold embellishments. Created for Harry Potter fans all over the world, this collection will certainly delight,” says Sofia Löfstedt, Head of Design kids wear at H&M. The Harry Potter x H&M kids wear collection brings together iconic elements of Hogwarts, as well as incorporating innovative looks with elements of the wizarding world in each piece. The range includes tops, sweatshirts, hoodies, jeans, trousers, joggers, dresses, skirts, bodies for babies and accessories such as scarves, hats, socks and scrunchies. The selection includes Hogwarts school logos, which will also be available for purchase. Fans can expect to see graphic prints of Harry’s snowy owl Hedwig and illustrations of the different Hogwarts houses on similar garments. Join H&M this season by taking a trip to Hogwarts in a new fit. With soft, comfortable and stylish outfit options, your loved ones will be inspired to create some magical moments of their own. To shop this look, or for more looks from H&M, be sure to check out their website kw.hm.com

98


99


TALKING MOTORBIKES WITH MOHAMMED JAFFAR

Moto School founder discusses the essentials for learners and enthusiasts By bazaar staff

Professional athlete Mohammed Jaffar, winner of several motocross races and the founder of the Kuwait-based Moto School, made himself available to speak to us on furthering the sport’s growth in Kuwait. Speaking to us about his passions, he reveals his tips for people looking towards becoming motocross hobbyists. Jaffar originally imagined Moto School as a platform for citizens to learn how to become involved in the sport of motocross, and for it to be taught by professionals to instill fundamentals from an early age. For those thinking about where to begin, he had a few things to say. “For older riders, my recommendation would be to start with a 450cc bike. This will give you all you need to cover desert distances without fail.” He admitted that the youngest riders will need to begin with a 50cc or 65cc engine. “That’s where you’ll begin, depending on age, height, weight, and experience.” Jaffar said.

100

As hobbyists progress, pushing themselves to improve, they will begin to know more about what they are looking for in a dirt bike. But Jaffar also had several models in mind for them to consider. “Going by [the] terrain will tell you which [bike] is most suitable to ride.” He said. “In our part of the world, with plenty of deserts and flat, sandy areas, the standard dirt bike comes in handy. ” In other parts of the world, Jaffar said an Enduro would be better to cover different types of terrains, like muddy grounds, or rocky, mountainous paths that are most commonly encountered. He also mentioned that all the well-known brands are going to deliver on quality and reliability, and to just trust yourself and your ability in that situation. Nonetheless, Jaffar has a personal preference for KTM bikes. “They just work right out of the showroom. No hassles. Just get on and ride,” he said. But no matter the bike, he asked that riders go the extra mile, and install a mousse in the tires to combat the possibility of a flat. Being outdoors with no spare is avoidable, with the mousse, but it must be added to the inside of the rubber tires. All

the professional motocross athletes consider the mousse tube standard now, and this thinking has trickled down to hobbyists as well. This sport will require more physicality than is seen with driving a car. As such, staying in shape is vital to build endurance. “Fitness is extremely important. You have to maintain it, otherwise you may find yourself enjoying it a lot less.” He also addressed common riding errors and spoke on the matter of safety. “Novices may feel the urge to push the bike harder than its limits.” He said. “It’s a classic example of beginners’ confidence taking over. The reality is, professionals understand very well how little is needed to lose balance.” Jaffar stressed the importance of safety gear at all times. “Above all,” he said. “You must continue to practice. Begin with taking corners properly, and then start with jumps of no more than half a meter in height.” To find out more about Mohammed Jaffar, visit @RedBullKuwait and @mo_jaffar on Instagram and Twitter, @RedBull on Facebook, and the website redbull.com/athletes.


talabat


NETFLIX’S MUST SEE THIS SUMMER

Crazy, stupid and sometimes very serious releases you don’t wanna miss By bazaar staff

We all have best friends (if you don’t, we’ll be yours) but Netflix has been the greatest friend to most of us this summer. Streaming on TV’s, laptops and even phones, our favorite shows, movies and documentaries have been on replay helping us pass time while we’re waiting for post corona days to grace us with their presence. But for now, we are Netflix and chillin’ alone. Here is a list of must watch shows this summer! The Last Dance An EPSN docu-series that documents the rise of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, as well as the popularity of the NBA during the 1990s. This limited series focuses around the career of Michael Jordan, with particular focus on his last season with the Chicago Bulls. It also features more than 500 hours of never-before-seen footage from the team's championship run in the 1997–98 season, along with commentary from dozens of other sports stars. You do not want to miss this!

The Rain Season three of The Rain is set to premiere in August on Netflix. The Danish series is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi drama that has earned a global following. It is based around a viral infection that is transported by rainfall (hence, the name) and causes the near extinction of the human population.

Selling Sunset As the drama unfolds, and even bigger real estate deals are closed, season three is back to give us more. This August, Selling Sunset is giving us the latest group of bingeable reality TV. If you haven’t watched this real estate based, reality TV show then you have got yourself three seasons worth of watch time. Think the Kardashians meet HGTV.

The Umbrella Academy The long-awaited second season of the superhero series has also come to Netflix this summer. Revolving around a dysfunctional family with adopted sibling superheroes who reunite to solve questions around the mystery of their father's death are met with the threat of an impending apocalypse. We might not be superheroes, but we still want to know what these ones get up to this season.

Lucifer Everybody’s favorite, a story about a demon called Lucifer who is bored from hell and returns to reside in Los Angeles and run a club. Soon, he gets involved with local police and helps them in solving tricky criminal cases. If you’re a watcher, you would know that at the end of season four, Lucifer returned to Hell to claim his throne and left his friends and loved ones behind on Earth. This new season we’ll get to find out if he’s coming back or not.

The Seven Deadly Sins The Japanese fantasy manga series is returning for its fourth season with “Wrath of the Gods” after a three-year hiatus, during which the film “Prisoners of the Sky” was released. In this series with King Arthur in hiding, will Camelot fall? Will Meliodas succumb to demon form? The Seven Deadly Sins must reunite once more to face the demon clan.

Did we miss anything? Drop us a DM on Instagram and we’ll add your recommendation to this article online! 102


when life gives you lemons, make mint lemonade! ed t i lim me ti

pinkberry


VOSS WATER

How Norway’s natural water is quenching the world’s thirst By bazaar staff

VOSS first hit retail shelves in spring of 2000 and quickly grew to become the preferred bottled water brand of thought leaders and trendsetters the world over. It may be hard to believe due to its current status as Instagram darling and go-to premium water choice, but VOSS water began as the persistent dream of two Norwegian entrepreneurs driven by their goal to bring the purest water from their beloved Norway to the rest of the globe. Ole Christian Sandberg and Christopher Harlem grew up together in Oslo, Norway, and stayed in touch as they explored individual opportunities. Thanks to their travels and insightful observations, Sandberg and Harlem noticed a need for high quality bottled water, and they set out to deliver this from one of Norway’s most pristine sources. The VOSS source was soon identified – an aquifer located on the unspoiled southern tip of Norway. This water is protected by layers of rock and sand which act as a natural filter, resulting in uniquely clean water, delivering a pure, refreshing experience. The VOSS source contains an unusually low concentration of naturally dissolved substances found in water, which grants VOSS its superb taste. Once the source was identified, the mission

104

became focused on creating the most desirable and premium bottle possible; after all, the world’s besttasting, premium water deserved a best-in-class bottle that had never been seen before. This task would become just as difficult as securing VOSS’ pure water source. Sandberg and Harlem visited design agencies in Norway and were not satisfied with the initial concepts for VOSS. Eventually, they made their way to New York, struggling to find a suitable agency partner, until they connected with Neil Kraft, former creative director of Calvin Klein. Sandberg and Harlem’s dedication and passion for the VOSS brand spurred Kraft to design the iconic glass VOSS bottle, taking cues from the fragrance industry and applying these for the first time to bottled water packaging.

After the design had been set, it took nearly a year of sourcing materials and manufacturing partners, with fierce commitment and determination, to finally make the VOSS bottle a reality. Thanks to the unwavering vision of these two entrepreneurs, VOSS hit shelves in April of 2000. Recognizing global trends and the various usage occasions for premium water, VOSS has expanded its portfolio over the last twenty years. Iconic VOSS products are now available in glass, recyclable PET, and sleek cans. Consumers can enjoy the original still water in PET and glass or branch out into flavored and unflavored VOSS sparkling water (available in all three packaging types). By offering lightweight PET bottles in addition to the original glass, VOSS has been able to reduce


cargo weight and the resulting greenhouse gas emissions. VOSS’ production facility has also launched a dedicated train which has replaced 30 daily truck movements, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions by at least 70 tons per year (based on EcoTransIT 2017). Most recently in summer 2019, VOSS announced its strategic partnership with global entertainment icon, entrepreneur and VOSS loyalist, Dwayne Johnson. Johnson, who acquired a stake in VOSS, is serving as a true brand partner and strategic advisor as the brand innovates and continues expansion into new international territories, including China, as well as new product categories, packaging and platforms. As a cultural leader with a finger on the pulse of what audiences want, Johnson’s global influence and

expertise will be invaluable to introducing VOSS to new audiences. VOSS also launched its largest consumer-facing advertising and social media campaign, called “Live Every Drop.” This campaign features Johnson himself and embodies the mentality that “you get out of life what you put in.” The campaign launched via large-scale outdoor, digital and social media throughout major markets, beginning in the United States, on August 5, 2019. This campaign may be the biggest advertising campaign ever conducted by VOSS, but based on the brand’s history of trailblazing, VOSS will surely continue to delight consumers and connoisseurs alike with future campaigns and innovation. From its memorable inception in Norway and the start of distribution in the United States, VOSS

has elicited the same devotion in consumers and fans around the world. VOSS is now enjoyed in over 50 countries worldwide and has turned this global appreciation into a truly unique and involved network of fans connected through social media. VOSS is not only a water brand – it is a lifestyle brand, with endless possibilities.

You can find VOSS water in supermarkets, co-ops, restaurants and roomserviceq8.com. For more information and inspiration, follow @vossarabia.

105


live like the 1%

SUPREME FACEMASK

HAND SANITIZER

CHAKRA MAT

NIKE 2020 ISPA SNEAKER COLLECTION

COCONUT CUP

BOEING 787- 8 BBJ

While Kuwait’s Minister of Commerce and Industry mandated early this year that medical facemask prices should range between 100 fils and 1.350 KD only, this doesn’t mean for those of you who still clamor for that label glamor that you can’t find some. While heritage brands were turning over their manufacturing to donate PPE, other upstart street labels like BAPE, Off-White and Supreme were turning their hands to masks that command 138KD for one. Made from what the cognoscenti consider the stalwarts of luxury textiles, neoprene and velcro, this mask is also good for protecting you from dust storms, and not just great for giving you that bad boy tan line that says, “Today I left my McMansion”.

Now that it takes more than a week to get in over ten thousand steps and not a day, this is the perfect time to be buying new kicks. A snip at 155KD these can be worn like hotel slippers while you stay at home. The Zoom Road Warrior (pictured), Overreact FK, Overreact FK Sandal, Flow 2020 and Drifter are the first releases that have been announced by Nike. The Zoom Road Warrior has specifically been designed to tackle the unique and shifting challenges of the human made environment. So, things like the excruciatingly long commutes in global mega-cities, not for you – you’ve got the chopper, and the environmental changes brought about by climate change, also doesn’t affect you 1%ers.

Virtue signal and sanitize your hands in one go? 7KD for 100ml is but a drop in the ocean for the feel-good factor this hand sanitizer will give you as you shame others through your caring. From Beauty Kitchen the packaging leaves onlookers in no doubt that you are saintly, as it proudly declares ‘Organic! Vegan! Reusable!’ For those rare 1%ers that do genuinely care, the ethanol used is non-gmo. Apparently genetically modified ethanol has become a thing since fossil fuels are running out. Modified ethanol can be used as a cleaner alternative to petroleum and with small changes in ingredients such as sugar cane, can save billions of dollars in the manufacturing process. Who knew?

You’ll be singing, “I’ve got a lovely bunch of coconuts” at the top of your voice after you’ve bid for and won this probably 16thCentury, German objet d’art. Who knew the Lutherans were so materialistic! Probably the peasants who were uprising at the time, to be honest. This is a parcel-gilt silver-mounted coconut cup in the form of an owl and unmarked. Available at Sotheby’s in the STYLE: Furniture, Silver, Clocks, Ceramics and Vertu auction, from the 29thAugust, and offering a wide selection of objects from the UK and Continental Europe. This little beauty is estimated between 600KD – 9800KD. At that price you can make like Tennessee Williams and have yourself a menagerie.

If resting on a bed of hot rocks is your thing then for only 323 KD you can experience the joy of a mat filled with multicolored pebbles. Okay, these are gemstones – amethyst, sodalite, blue lace agate, green aventurine, yellow aventurine, carnelian and jasper; but it’s like having your own scratch patch wrapped up in a prison grade wire cot mattress. Each of these stones emits a unique frequency that pairs with each of the inner chakras. Using a smart controller (let me guess: on and off), the mat can be heated up to 68 degrees Celsius. Luckily now that Kuwait has opened up access to everybody, you can get the same burnedback effect by hitting the beach during primetime sun hours.

Buy your own plane. No-one wants to consider the number of derrieres before you which have been sprawled on the seats of a common Bombardier Challenger which is now being taken like taxis by the underclasses. And, increasingly during this pandemic more of these undesirables are being sold the idea of jumping on a private jet charter because, instead of exposing yourself to upwards of 270 people during a regular airport navigation and commercial flight, you only risk being exposed to fewer than 20 people a private flight. So, keep yourself to yourself on your own plane like a Boeing 787- 8 BBJ which is fabulously affordable at just 69,010,596KD, and add an additional 33 million KD for modifications.

live like the 99%

GOOD DEED SQUAD

Founded by Noor AlObaid, and formed in June as a non-profit charitable response corps, this intrepid bunch of squaddies have been lending a helping hand to all those who have been affected adversely by the pandemic. Recognizing that people were struggling with having to work with no salary, being made redundant, experiencing neither rent forgiveness nor reduction, and having to care for not only themselves but for their families, these volunteers realized that for some of Kuwait’s residents, basic necessities were hard to come by. And by basic we mean food. So, the volunteers needed to buy provisions, and repack and distribute to those in need, collaborating with businesses like @food_box_kw to get the job done. The Good Deed Squad are always in need of donations and if you go to their Facebook page @goodeedsquad you can see the kind of food parcels your money goes toward. Follow their Instagram account @goddeedsquad.kw and click on the linktr.ee/goodeedsquad to see what more you can do to help, and to volunteer. Sources: gqinda.com, harpersbazaar.com, row.feelunique.com, goop.com, wealthygorilla.com, sothebys.com, linktr.ee/Goodeedsquad. 106


‫ﺃﻛﻮﺍ ﻃﻌﻢ‬

‫ﺃﻛﻮﺍ ﺇﻳـﻔـﺎ‬

‫‪EVA‬‬


bazaar Apps

ZOLVE

ECOSIA

GIVE

EARTH REWARDS

JOULEBUG

HEALTHY LIVING

Keeping our machines and devices working instead of rushing to replace them whenever they break is a great way to reduce our consumption. Unfortunately, it is sometimes difficult to find out what is wrong or how to deal with it. The Zolve app makes it super easy. Just take a picture of a product barcode and the app brings up the manufacturer's guide and troubleshooting information.

Even on our worst days, deep down we really want to help other people. We have been seeing more large-scale charity projects being crowdfunded by the community and the Give app makes it quick and easy. You can filter projects based on type or location and you can easily choose the amount you can spare and pay using KNet or credit card directly from your phone. It is all safe, secure and vetted.

Going green is a lofty yet often difficult goal to achieve. JouleBug makes it easy to change your everyday habits at home, work, and play into more sustainable alternatives. With each Buzz, you’ll help the planet, your community, and your wallet. Join local and national challenges to see who’s the greenest. When you compete, we all win. Follow your friends and neighbors to see how they’re making a difference.

How many times do you search for something online each day? What if your browsing habits could be used to plant more trees? Ecosia is a search engine based in Berlin, Germany, that donates 80% or more of its profits to non profit organizations that focus on reforestation. Ecosia is also B Labcertified. You don’t have to make any major changes in your life except changing where you perform your online searches.

The app has kept things simple and fun and is a great way to help you measure, reduce and balance the carbon impacts of your lifestyle and live a more environmentally-conscious life. Earn Earth Rewards every time you spend with one of their partners. For every Earth Reward, 1kg of CO2e is saved from entering the atmosphere. You can keep saving your rewards OR put them towards balancing some of your lifestyle impacts.

It is easy to feel helpless when it comes to the planet and environmental damage that is happening. Fortunately, as consumers we can all vote with our Dinars. Every time you make a better-informed purchase you help a little bit. Use the EWG Healthy Living app to check the safety of your cosmetics, sunscreens, household cleaners, or food. Just scan the barcode, review the results and make a better purchase if you can.

play.google.com itunes.apple.com


nature valley


INTRODUCING BATTLE OF THE BRANDS THE KLC FOOD REVOLUTION By bazaar staff

We live in a nation of food enthusiasts. From creative dessert creations to the perfect burger, Kuwait is all about good food. When it comes to innovating the local and regional food scene, Kuwait London Company is leading the way. KLC Virtual Restaurants was established in 2008 as a delivery restaurant company. Ever since, it has made it a point to satisfy customers with strong and unique restaurant ideas, as well as continuing to grow. It now has over 21 different concepts hailing from different cuisines around the world and counting. In recent news, it has launched its newest menu concept called Battle of the Brands exclusively on Talabat & Carriage. 110

Now we are sure you’ve heard of Chubby Balls, Humble Burgers and Proper Sliders but those are only a few of the concepts that have turned this company into a pioneer for all things amazing food. Excelling in food concept creation and delivery from global culinary flavors, KLC is always cooking something special. Perhaps a concept that is most telling of the delicious food opportunities to be experienced from KLC is Battle of the Brands. Introduced this year, it represents the future of online food delivery, bringing you the most delectable options from concepts like Breakfast Fix, Hatch Chicken, Junkyard, and so many others all in one menu. When it comes to innovating the food delivery industry, KLC’s clever cloud kitchen operation takes center stage, allowing for the seamless integration of various virtual restaurants in one dynamic space. Don’t worry, we’re not getting ahead of you or ourselves, so we’ll explain. In the Food & Beverage industry, a virtual restaurant is basically a delivery-only/pick-up restaurant. Because the company saves on overhead costs associated with classic dine-in establishments,

the capital is redirected right back into the heart and soul of the food operation, i.e. the kitchen, perfecting the entire exercise. So you know you are getting fresher and higher quality ingredients even at the comfort of your own home. Everything in KLC’s operations is optimized for delivery, from food packaging, preparation, to actual price points. KLC has brewed a formula to give you, the customer, the best food delivery experience you can have. So when it came to how The Battle of the Brands concept was going to be managed, the company utilized its cloud kitchen infrastructure. This strength for the company has worked wonders for them since they have a strong foundation of operating many virtual restaurants at any given moment. They offer the perfect approach to dining at home, since we love ordering, party hosting and catering. It’s never a complete weekend without gathering with family for that special Zwara, and we’re usually always looking for something different to bring, whether it’s a hearty order of Chubby Cookies, or changing up the menu with Mexican flavors with a full spread from Taco Eataco.


Perfect for those group and family orders where one person is craving burgers and the next is craving tacos, you can find everything you love to eat in one menu at Battle of the Brands, get it in one delivery, and pay in one go! The idea was to combine the most popular food items from each of the brands into one menu, so whether you're craving a morning pick me up from Breakfast Fix, or your brother is down for a crepe from Chubby Crepes, you can order through the Battle of the Brands’ menu. If it wasn’t for KLC’s strategically placed cloud kitchens all throughout Kuwait, this wouldn't be possible. All those existential crises inducing food discussions at gatherings (what are we eating? Where are we ordering from?) are officially a thing of the past, thanks to Battle of the Brands! In other amazing food news, we were also informed by KLC that a brand new Indian Concept called One Butter Chicken has also just launched in Kuwait. The restaurant is operating in Jahra for the time being and delivery is available through Talabat and Carriage. Delivery to the rest of Kuwait will also be available soon. KLC is the gift that keeps on giving and they are totally teasing us with this! What is amazing about the Battle of the Brands menu is that it keeps growing with every new concept added. For example, since their first Indian concept has launched, now Battle of the Brands has Indian food! And our health-conscious readers are going to love the long-awaited acai concept, called Generation Acai, that will be launching very soon. That’s not even all of what’s in the works, coffee, juice and more dessert concepts are already in the pipeline. But for those we’re just going to have to keep a close eye on their Instagram page. In the meantime, we have the Battle of the Brands inclusive menu to keep us afloat. To keep up with KLC’s future projects, or to know more about each of their concepts make sure to follow them on Instagram @battleofthebrandsme or @kuwaitlondoncompany and check their website kuwaitlondoncompany.com

111


bazaar books

THE NEW HUSBAND

CRAVE

by D.J. Palmer, Thriller

by Tracy Wolff, Paranormal

Nina Garrity learned the hard way after discovering that her missing husband, Glen, had been leading a double life with another woman. But Glen's gone— presumably drowned while fishing on his boat. A year and a half after the accident, Nina considers herself a widow, even though the police never found a body. Following a chance encounter with Simon Fitch, a teacher from her daughter Maggie's middle school, Nina finds love again and has hopes of putting her shattered life back together. She is committed, not only to her soon-to-be new husband but also to resuming her former career as a social worker. Before she can move forward, however, Nina must first clear her conscience that she's not making another terrible choice in a man. In doing so, she will uncover the shocking truth: the greatest danger to her, and her children, are the lies people tell themselves.

The narrator tells us a story. “My whole world changed when I stepped inside the academy. Nothing is right about this place or the other students in it. Here I am, a mere mortal among gods…or monsters. I still can’t decide which of these warring factions I belong to, if I belong at all. I only know the one thing that unites them is their hatred of me. Then there’s Jaxon Vega. A vampire with deadly secrets who hasn’t felt anything for a hundred years. But there’s something about him that calls to me, something broken in him that somehow fits with what’s broken in me. Which could spell death for us all. Because Jaxon walled himself off for a reason. And now someone wants to wake a sleeping monster, and I’m wondering if I was brought here intentionally—as the bait.”

IF I HAD YOUR FACE

THE BOOK OF LOST FRIENDS by Lisa Wingate, Historical Fiction

by Frances Cha, Contemporary Fiction

A riveting debut novel set in contemporary Seoul, Korea, about four young women making their way in a world defined by impossibly high standards of beauty, secret room salons catering to wealthy men, strict social hierarchies, and K-pop fan mania. Kyuri is a heartbreakingly beautiful woman with a hardwon job at a "room salon," an exclusive bar where she entertains businessmen while they drink. Her roommate, Miho, is a talented artist who grew up in an orphanage but won a scholarship to study art in New York. Down the hall in their apartment building lives Ara, a hair stylist. And Wonna, one floor below, is a newlywed trying to get pregnant. Together, their stories tell a gripping tale that's seemingly unfamiliar, yet unmistakably universal in the way that their tentative friendships may have to be their saving grace.

Two stories overlap, starting in 1875 Louisiana, during the tumultuous aftermath of Reconstruction. Three young women set off as unwilling companions on a perilous quest: Lavinia, the pampered heir to a now-destitute plantation; Juneau Jane, her illegitimate free-born Creole half-sister; and Hannie, Lavinia's former slave. The second story begins in 1987. For first-year teacher Benedetta Silva, a subsidized job at a poor rural school seems like the ticket to canceling her hefty student debt--until she lands in a tiny, out-of-step Mississippi River town. Augustine, Louisiana, seems suspicious of new ideas and new people, and Benny can scarcely comprehend the lives of her poverty-stricken students. But amid the gnarled live oaks and rundown plantation homes lies the century-old history of three young women, a long-ago journey, and a hidden book that could change everything.

CHOSEN ONES

THE HAPPY EVER AFTER PLAYLIST

by Veronica Roth, Fantasy

by Abby Jimenez, Romance

A decade ago near Chicago, five teenagers defeated the otherworldly enemy known as the Dark One, whose reign of terror brought widespread destruction and death. The seemingly un-extraordinary teens— Sloane, Matt, Ines, Albie, and Esther—had been brought together by a clandestine government agency because one of them was fated to be the “Chosen One,” prophesized to save the world. Ten years later, though the champions remain celebrities, the world has moved forward and a whole, younger generation doesn’t seem to recall the days of endless fear. But Sloane remembers. Unlike everyone else, she hasn’t moved on; she’s adrift—no direction, no goals, no purpose. On the eve of the ‘Ten Year Celebration of Peace’, a new trauma hits the Chosen: the death of one of their own. And when they gather for the funeral at the enshrined site of their triumph, they discover to their horror that the Dark One’s reign never really ended.

112

Two years after losing her fiancé, Sloan Monroe still can't seem to get her life back on track. But one trouble-making pup with a "take me home" look in his eyes is about to change everything. With her new pet by her side, Sloan finally starts to feel more like herself. Then, after weeks of unanswered texts, Tucker's owner reaches out. He's a musician on tour in Australia. And bottom line: He wants Tucker back. Well, Sloan's not about to give up her dog without a fight. But what if this Jason guy really loves Tucker? As their flirty texts turn into long calls, Sloan can't deny a connection. Jason is hot, nice and funny. There's no telling what could happen when they meet in person. The question is: With his music career on the rise, how long will Jason really stick around? And is it possible for Sloan to survive another heartbreak?

Source: www.amazon.com


chubby


bazaar music

SOUNDS LIKE SUMMER Perhaps over the last few months music has kept you sane while locked up in the house. It’s certainly a way to drown out the noise of roommates and family. But summer signals smash hits, parties, happy times. Or, it should. This year things may be a little different but we certainly look forward to listening to new tracks and maybe reminiscing about our faves from the past as well. We certainly won’t be forgetting August 2020 in a hurry, so put those beats on, and find the tunes that you’ll be telling your kids about when regaling them with stories of summers gone by.

THE NEW NORMAL

SMILE - SINGLE/ALBUM

HONEY YOU KNOW WHERE TO FIND ME - SINGLE

LESSONS - ALBUM

The title track from the singer’s 5th studio album, Katy wrote on Instagram, “I wrote [it] when I was coming through one of the darkest periods of my life and had lost my smile. This whole album is my journey towards the light - with stories of resilience, hope, and love.” Certainly this is something that we can all relate to, as we emerge from this global experience of isolation and loss. Released on the 14th the accompanying video sees Perry dressed in the outlandish garb of a clown as she brushes away the plaque of misery to create a most beautiful smile on outsized mechanical gnashers.

We know exactly where we’ll be this summer, staycationing comes to mind, and from the 29th this single title suggests that Morrissey can probably be found lurking in the same place too. Just as we are all facing the new normal, the song opens with, “The future is all around us, I’m not gonna cry for the things that never occurred.” While a newly released single, this track hails from the 2009 digitally remastered Southpaw Grammar, the LP which was originally released in 1985. Thus, it features Morrissey’s signature la la la-ing, and you can almost picture him with a handful of daffodils.

We’ve all learned a few lessons over the last months, not least that plans are not set in stone. Expected to drop in late July this album is now coming out this month. The album features 20 tracks from the West Coast rapper and actor whose music can be heard in the Grand Theft Auto series. He says of his 16th studio album, “I maybe have one more project I’m gonna drop called Lessons, which is more about tryna speak to the young homies and lessons learned going through gang banging, then indulging in Hip Hop and ultimately tryna gear towards the right lane, so stay tuned. Geah.”

Katy Perry

Morrissey

MC Eiht

AWESOME AUGUST

SIREN - ALBUM 1975

BORN TO DO IT - ALBUM 2000

OLD TOWN ROAD - SINGLE 2019

Not only a critically acclaimed album by the British rock band, but notoriously the cover artwork boasts supermodel Jerry Hall, as a scantily clad mermaid on the rocks; just exactly where her relationship with lead singer Brian Ferry would be after she left him for Mick Jagger. This album features the band’s first American hit, “Love is the Drug” on an album of 9 tracks. This is the creative space where the band moved away from the art-rock genre and Brian Ferry stepped forward with his more suave and crooning persona, which would later give rise to the global smash hit, “Avalon” in 1982.

A new millennium and a new star burst onto the scene with the debut album from the English singer with UK Garage roots. Only 45 mins in length this 11-track album spawned multi-platinum sales and seven top ten hits from the unstoppable pairing of Craig David with producer Mark Hill. Most of the songs on the album are demos, and less polished than the released singles, so it’s worth having a listen to this to hear the raw chemistry of the sessions captured in Hill’s basic studio. This album broke the US, even garnering the young performer an invitation to the Bush administration White House.

Doesn’t it feel like a lifetime ago, but only last year we were heading comfortably down the “Old Town Road”. Little did we realize that the controversial mix of American rapper and country music would be a portent to the summer uprisings of racial tensions in 2020. Billboard removed this single from its country charts citing it as “lacking elements of country music.” But, the rapper finding it hard to gain acceptance by mainstream country in 2019 mirrors a time when influential black artists found it difficult to get airplay on country radio, harking back to the racist roots of hillbilly music.

Roxy Music

Craig David

Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus

Sources: albumoftheyear.org, pitchfork.com, nbsnews.com, allmusic.com, rollingstone.com, amazon.com 114


BECAUSE LIFE IS AMAZING.

rauch


COLD BREW ICED TEA

Reimagined summer drinks with Ahmad Tea By bazaar staff

It is a hot day and you have errands to run. You’re thirsty, tired and probably grumpy. Water is boring and soda and juices aren’t really that great for your new clean healthy lifestyle. In a flash moment of genius you reach for a cold brew iced tea. Traditional tea drinkers might be shuddering in their boots, but we think that cold brew tea is our new BFF! Ahmad Tea’s Cold Brew Iced Teas are a quick and convenient way to enjoy freshly brewed iced tea. The teabags brew in cold water in just a few minutes – no need for boiling water. They are completely sugar and sweetener free, so they offer the perfect alternative to soft drinks but still have some of that energy boosting caffeine we love and crave. The range includes black and green tea blends, so there is a flavor and blend to suit different tastes. The invention of iced tea is often attributed to Richard Belchynden who was manning a booth at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. It was an intense hot summer day and visitors weren’t too psyched about trying a hot beverage, so he threw in some ice cubes into already steeped tea and hey presto! Iced tea was born. The story might be apocryphal because there are other documented instances of iced tea dating before 1904 in the southern United States, but we like a good origin story. It also makes sense as in hotter climates, iced tea is definitely more enticing. You can certainly make your own iced tea from any of your favorite Ahmad Tea blends, but that involves boiling water, letting the tea sit in hot water until it blossoms and blooms and then adding ice or chilling it. Now, this is an unnecessary process since you have the perfect alternative. The cold brew iced teas are also perfect for people who are on the go. Just throw a tea bag in your water bottle (a reusable one is even better), let it steep for five minutes and your refreshing drink is ready with all of its flavorful goodness. So whether you are actively trying to cut down on sugar or just don’t want to suffer from a sugar crash, you now have a new perfect drink to reach for every time.

116


If you are a black tea lover, you can choose between Lemon & Lime or Peach & Passion fruit. And if green tea is your thing, then try the Lemon & Mint or the Mango & Lychee. All of the flavors are very summery and zesty. Perfect for an after-meal pick me up or paired with a healthy lunch. We also like getting creative with our drinks. Brew Peach and Passion Fruit Cold Brew in cold water for five minutes, add some peach and lemon syrup, ice and give it a good shake. And to make it extra pretty, decorate with a couple of fresh peach slices and mint leaves. Or you can add some mango juice and freshly cut slices to the Mango & Lychee blend for a quick tropical treat. You don’t even need to complicate it, fresh mint leaves or a slice of lemon is an instant game changer if you want something extra.

Find your new favorite Cold Brew Ahmad Tea in supermarkets, co-ops, and roomserviceq8.com. For tantalizing tea recipes, information and inspiration, follow @ahmadteaarabia on Instagram.

117


bazaar around town

THIS SUMMER, DON’T MISS THE ‘GULF POINTS’ PROGRAM FROM GULF BANK Gulf Bank offers you the fastest and most rewarding program in Kuwait that gives you valuable points to use for free airline travel, hotel accommodation plus special seasonal packages, “Gulf Points”. Earn points with every transaction you make using your Gulf Bank credit card. You earn even more points when you use your credit card abroad. All this and more is offered to you for free with “Gulf Points” program.” All existing Gulf Bank credit card holders are automatically enrolled, and no minimum purchase is required to start earning points! For more information on the ‘Gulf Points’ program, visit e-gulfbank.com. You can also contact the Customer Contact Center on 1805 805.

ADIDAS ORIGINALS LAUNCHES TWO NEW ZX 2K BOOST SNEAKERS Since its original launch in 1984, adidas Originals’ ZX series has been at the cutting edge of running shoe design. Relentlessly combining a forward-thinking aesthetic with the very best tech, ZX has always stood out as the off-beat innovator of the Originals family. Designed with satisfaction over logic, each ZX 2K BOOST model fuses elements of the ZX series with Boost technology to create a new expression that needs to be felt to be understood. The audacious, hyper-modern ZX style is front and center, bolstered by unexpected technical details that push the series ever further into the future. Championing squishiness over everything while elevating comfort and satisfaction, the bold silhouette takes its lead from the more layered designs of later ZX models, such as the iconic ZX 00 Series. Bringing the bold look to life, the ZX 2K BOOST sneaker releases in two distinct colorways: solar yellow/hi-res red and white/violett pink. For more information, check out adidas.com/ZX.

IT’S PIZZA NIGHT AT HOME WITH BLAZE PIZZA’S DIY KITS! While we know that we can pick up our favorite Blaze Pizza to-go, we do miss sitting down for the full on Blaze Pizza experience. Well now, you can create the best pizza memories at home with Blaze Pizza. Go all out, get the family together, get dressed up and plan the perfect pizza night. It’s time to get your oven fired up, because Blaze Pizza is now offering Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Pizza Kits that everyone can prepare and bake at home! The recently introduced kits are a fun kitchen activity that adults and kids alike can enjoy, not to mention it’s a great way to brush-up on your baking skills (practice makes perfect right?). Whether in the store or at home, Blaze Pizza brings you the same fresh and high-quality ingredients to make your yummy pizza. The kit includes a dough ball suitable for an 11 inch pizza, dusting flour, and toppings. Because we know it’s all about the toppings, go all out and get them all! Order your pizza kit now through Talabat, Deliveroo, Carriage and Cravez.

SHAKE THINGS UP AT HOME WITH SHAKE SHACK’S DIY KITS! What’s Shake Shack’s secret to making the perfect burger? Using the best ingredients, of course! And for the first time ever, Shake Shack is bringing them straight to your doorstep with their new Do-It-Yourself Kit! Now, you can recreate the Shack magic at home or chalet this weekend. We all know there’s nothing quite like chilling poolside and firing up the BBQ for an amazing burger feast! Make your own iconic ShackBurger at home with the Shack’s custom blend of fresh, 100% Angus beef patties which took years to perfect (it’s hormone and antibiotic-free, too), classic American cheese, top-secret ShackSauce, lettuce, tomato, and non-GMO Martin’s Potato Rolls. The DIY Kit is enough to make eight delicious ShackBurgers, which is perfect for a family gathering! You can order the DIY ShackBurger Kit now through home delivery services.

118


green giant


bazaar scopes

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! At least you don’t have to make any decisions, because we know how hard that is for you. Use this down time to get ready for the exciting months coming your way. Some one-on-one collaboration with a friend or work pal will really help both of you progress much faster in the direction you are going.

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! Which is fine, because it looks like you are going to need to do some more introspection. Think big deep thoughts about your life, relationships and work, because once you can start going places you are going to have to move very quickly.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! But we’re not worried about you, your sheer force of willpower will make sure you get to where you need to go. Pandemic or not, your need to connect with friends and loved ones is strong, keep reaching out to people, you might make the right kind of connection this month that will change your life.

ARIES MAR 20 – APR 19 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! Nevertheless, you seem to have your boots on and you are marching to a strong beat. Keep the momentum going because you’ll need it to walk down the road to interesting opportunities. It looks like social distancing didn’t stop you from socializing too, the new friendships you’ve made will work in your favor soon.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! But you know that project that you have been secretly and slowly working on without telling anyone, it is time to work faster and start asking for help with it. Lots of people around you are ready to support, if you just ask. The stars are aligning and now is the best time to reveal your hard work to the world.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! We know that the last few months were so stressful and at the same time utterly blissful. What can we say? Opposites are just in your nature. Focus on the good things and nourish them so they can grow and ignore the things that are stressing you out as they will just disappear on their own.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! The stars say you might have spent the lock down months reconnecting with an ex or an old-flame. Whether you decide to stay or move on, it is going to be an exciting month for you, but you might want to really think about how you communicate your needs and wants.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! We know that might be making you a little bit antsy because you are not used to being told where and where you can’t go. But the universe has bigger plans for you yet. That achievement you have been slowly and stubbornly working towards is within your reach. So keep doing the work until all the pieces fall into place when they are ready to.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! Mostly because you don’t want to go anywhere. You have been stubbornly staying where you are because you are waiting for closure, but that might not happen unless you decide to just walk away. Focus on the things you can control this month. Nurture friendships and relationships that help you grow instead of the ones that drain you and kill your vibe.

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 19 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! Boring, we know. But you are really good at finding the escape you need even when airports are closed and all travel is suspended. Your friends have always brought joy to your life, so make sure you are not ignoring them. Try something completely new if you have been feeling stuck for a while. A new-to-you cuisine or hobby might make you feel much better.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! The Pandemic is partly to blame, but you have also been doing the one step forward, two steps backward shuffle for months. Your refusal to commit to anything is holding you back and the planets are going to give you the nudge you need to break into a run. Lace up your sneakers, you are ready for this.

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22 This summer, you are going absolutely nowhere! Last month might have been confusing for you, and brace yourself because you are still going to have to sort out things this month too. Whether you are looking for work or are already established somewhere, you might want to focus on your career and use your charm and work ethic to climb the ladder of success.

120

www.refinery29.com


Accounts

ABK Experience market leading benefits with ABK.

View previous winners

Simpler Banking

2019/2889/‫هـ‬-‫ | ت‬2019/406/‫ج‬-‫ت‬

• Cash gift up to KD1,000 or • Interest-free loan up to KD10,000 • New and existing customers automatically enter a monthly draw to win back their salary - 2 winners every month

Terms and Conditions apply

TRANSFER YOUR SALARY AND SMILE


obc HM Customer Service: 182-12-12

In selected stores and kw.hm.com 6 August.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.