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Loubna Baghdad A Voice Bridging Cultures and Emotions By Afef Yousfi With roots tracing back to Morocco and a heart that beats in the UAE, Loubna Baghdad is more than a singer, she’s a soulful storyteller whose voice transcends borders. Her artistic journey is deeply influenced by the cultures that raised her, crafting a sound and style that is both timeless and contemporary. “Being influenced by both Moroccan and Emirati cultures is a gift I carry with deep pride,” says Loubna. “Morocco has instilled in me a profound appreciation for history, intricate patterns, and vibrant color. The rhythms, the depth of expression, it’s a culture that sings from the heart.” In contrast, the UAE has taught her the art of balance and innovation. “It’s a place where tradition is honored while innovation is embraced, and that duality resonates with me deeply as an artist,” she adds. This blend of bold emotion and refined elegance forms the foundation of her music, a bridge between two rich worlds. Loubna’s connection to music was forged early in life. “Even before I understood lyrics, I could feel the emotion behind a song,” she recalls. The moment she sang in front of an audience and saw their emotional reaction, everything changed. “Music had the power to connect hearts, to heal, and to inspire, and that moment gave me clarity, this is what I’m meant to do.” Known for her magnetic presence on stage, Loubna describes performing as an emotional exchange. “It’s about creating a real connection between me and the audience, where feelings and good energy flow both ways.” Her songs carry stories of love, hope, loss, strength, and joy, all rooted in personal truth and a desire to reach others on a deeper level. Living in the UAE has opened countless doors for Loubna. “The country’s vibrant energy, cultural diversity, and creative opportunities have played a major role in shaping my journey,” she explains. The move gave her confidence and exposure, and most importantly, helped her dream bigger. “It wasn’t just a change of location, it was the moment I truly stepped into my path as a professional singer.” With a style that’s bold and elegant, Loubna uses visual identity to further her storytelling. “It’s more than just fashion or appearance, it’s a reflection of my personality, my Moroccan identity, and the stories I tell through music.” For her, image and music work hand in hand as tools for connection. Loubna counts her move from Morocco to the UAE as a turning point. “That step changed everything, not just in terms of opportunities, but in how I saw myself as an artist.” It became the foundation for a new chapter filled with growth and purpose. Her creative process begins with a feeling. “I follow my intuition. If something touches me emotionally, I know it has the potential to touch others too.” She balances this inner pull with a deep awareness of her audience.  “People want to feel something real when they listen, whether it’s happiness, strength, or even healing.” The process includes practice, refinement, and an honest delivery that speaks from the heart. Navigating both the Moroccan and Emirati entertainment worlds is a challenge Loubna embraces with grace. “Each has its own style, culture, and audience, and I feel lucky to learn from both.” She stays rooted in Morocco’s soulful traditions while exploring innovation and diversity in the UAE. “I try to bring the best of both worlds into my art.” “Women are unstoppable,” she declares. “I want young Arab women to know they can follow their dreams, no matter what.” Her story is a testament to self-belief and cultural pride. “You don’t have to change who you are to succeed. You can be proud of your roots and still be bold, creative, and different.” Loubna teases an exciting year ahead. “2025 is going to be a big year! I have new songs coming that explore different styles and emotions.” It’s a time of growth and deeper connection with her fans. “I’m so grateful for all the love and support, and I promise, the best is yet to come.”

Al Burak Perfumes The Story of Mohammad Fouad Al-Hraki and Al Burak Perfumes By Dana Al Bashiti In the Middle East, perfume is more than a luxury, it is heritage, identity, and daily ritual. While the world embraces fragrance as fashion or self-expression, in Arab culture, perfume is woven into the fabric of life itself. From religious traditions like the use of oud and musk during prayers, to the daily gesture of perfuming garments before leaving home, scent holds a revered place. It carries history, marks celebration, and evokes memory in ways unmatched elsewhere. This reverence for fragrance is especially apparent in the story of Mohammad Fouad Al-Hraki, the founder of Al Burak Perfumes, whose journey redefines perfume as an emotional language that speaks directly to the soul. Mohammad Fouad Al-Hraki doesn’t just create perfumes, he reconstructs memories. His roots in Damascus, Al-Harjala, and Ain al-Fijeh are inseparable from the inspiration behind his creations. He often speaks of Damascus not just as a place, but as a scent. “Fragrance is emotional architecture,” he says. He remembers the scent of jasmine in Al-Qanawat, insisting that it carries particles of Damascene soil and the warmth of its ancient stones. In his lab, he uses refined techniques such as cold enfleurage to capture this essence with purity, but it is his memories that guide the process. Despite the science, the heart of the fragrance remains entirely Syrian. One of his most poetic creations is a perfume he named A Whiff of Nostalgia, which he describes as an emotional-chemical equation, one part morning mist from Mount Qasioun, one part the scent of his mother’s handkerchief tucked away in a drawer from his school days. Technically, he uses white musk and bergamot to evoke the sudden warmth of recollection, but the true alchemy lies in how the scent makes absence feel tangible. For Al-Hraki, perfume is a way to hold onto people, moments, and places no longer near. His career has taken him through some of the finest establishments in the fragrance world, such as Paris Gallery and Roja Parfums. From Paris Gallery, he learned the art of presentation, how to sell a fragrance as a story. From Roja, he grasped the discipline of timing in composition, likening it to a symphony. Still, his own style matured with intention, swapping classical French elements for deeper Eastern notes like Yemeni frankincense and Ceylonese cinnamon. These ingredients reflect not only his personal taste but his cultural identity. He often maps his perfumes like scenes from memory. One such creation is Pavement d’Enfance, inspired by the sidewalks of his childhood. At its heart is Arabic coffee, blended with the scent of old schoolbooks. Using steam distillation to extract the warmth of roasted beans and base notes of cedarwood to honor his family’s wooden bench, the fragrance becomes a tribute to personal history. Strikingly, customers often say it reminds them of their own childhoods, even if the details differ. This is the mark of true craftsmanship, creating something deeply personal yet universally relatable. Al-Hraki works from what he calls a “Fragrance Map.” He imagines a setting, such as his grandfather’s courtyard, and then seeks out the ingredients that represent it. To mimic the smell of earth after rain, he blends geranium with patchouli.  But the most demanding part of this journey is fixation, where he tests the scent on skin over 24 hours to ensure that the memory it evokes does not fade too quickly. His understanding of perfume is deeply tactile and artistic, often drawing parallels with cooking. Just as the right oil temperature can make or break a dish, so too can the evaporation rate of perfume notes shape the final story. He gives the example of saffron, a note that must appear ten minutes after application, in the same way its flavor unfolds after chewing. For Al-Hraki, exile has not been just a physical journey, it’s also been scented. Creating perfume is his way of reconnecting with Syria. When he blends Damascene rose with amber, it is as though he is gathering scattered fragments of his city. Even when he substitutes rare botanicals with chemical equivalents due to availability, he never loses sight of the originals. Chemistry, he insists, must serve memory, not replace it. Preserving authenticity in his work has been a challenge. To recreate rare notes like Damascene jasmine or Zabadani cherry, he turns to chromatography to analyze their chemical makeup, then reconstructs them using available ingredients. In one case, he used benzaldehyde, which occurs in almonds, and combined it with orange blossom to capture the elusive cherry scent. The result feels remarkably faithful to the original, a triumph not just of science but of nostalgia. One of his most powerful moments came when an elderly customer tried his fragrance Café Nuri, inspired by the old coffee shops of Damascus. The man teared up and said it reminded him of the scent of dawn after Taraweeh prayers. For Al-Hraki, that moment confirmed that his technique had succeeded, not in a scientific sense, but in the most human way possible. When fragrance disappears into emotion, it has truly done its job. Looking to the future, Al-Hraki dreams of returning to Syria to launch a project called Perfume of Peace. This fragrance would be made entirely with local ingredients such as olive and citrus, symbols of resilience and rootedness. Though he plans to integrate modern tools like molecular fragmentation, he insists that its soul would feel like a breeze moving through the old alleys of Damascus. Through Al Burak Perfumes, Mohammad Fouad Al-Hraki offers more than a sensory experience. He gives us pieces of places we’ve loved, moments we’ve lost, and emotions we thought we’d forgotten. His work stands as a reminder that in the Middle East, perfume is not simply worn, it is lived. It is ritual, memory, identity, and in every bottle, Damascus breathes again.

Mariam AlYassI An Emirati Entrepreneur Redefining Success in Fashion and Media By Diana Brown In recent years, Arab women have emerged as powerful leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries across various industries, proving their capabilities in shaping the future. Their role in leadership is not only essential for economic growth but also for breaking barriers and redefining traditional norms. Arab women are known for their exceptional creativity, resilience, and ability to bring innovative ideas to life, making significant contributions in fields such as business, fashion, and media. Among these trailblazers is Mariam AlYassi, an Emirati entrepreneur who has successfully built a name for herself in the fashion and media industries, showcasing the brilliance and ambition that define Arab women today. Mariam AlYassi has made a remarkable impact as the founder of Wink by Mim and By Mim Design, brands that reflect her passion for creativity and elegance. With a strong presence on social media, she has captivated audiences with her innovative designs and business acumen. Her journey began in March 2015 when she started sharing her unique fashion and design aesthetics on Instagram.  Her creative approach quickly gained international recognition, making her one of the youngest Emirati designers to achieve global success. Her work has been featured in prestigious magazines and television, solidifying her reputation as a trendsetter in the industry. With a deep appreciation for high-end fashion, AlYassi draws inspiration from iconic designers such as Valentino and influential figures like Sheikha Moza. Her designs are known for their elegance, sophistication, and modern appeal, resonating with fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond fashion, Mariam AlYassi has also proven her versatility by stepping into traditionally male-dominated fields. At just 22 years old, she became the first female UAE national car service adviser, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for other women to follow. Her determination and resilience have earned her admiration, not just as a designer but as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. Mariam AlYassi’s influence extends beyond her personal success. She stands as a true inspiration for women who aspire to create, innovate, and lead. Through her ventures and social media presence, she continues to empower others by showcasing the limitless possibilities of ambition and hard work.  Her story is a testament to the power of vision, persistence, and passion, proving that Arab women are not only shaping the present but also leading the future. As she continues to grow and evolve, Mariam AlYassi will undoubtedly inspire even more individuals, leaving a lasting impact on the fashion, media, and business industries.

Eid Around the World Traditions, Feasts, and Family Bonds By Amna Kanwal The moon is sighted. A chorus of joy erupts across cities, villages, and homes. In Istanbul, lanterns glow above grand mosques. In Lahore, streets buzz with last-minute shoppers. In London, families prepare elaborate feasts while mosques gear up for grand Eid prayers. In New York, children lay out their finest clothes, excited for the day ahead.  Eid has arrived—different in tradition but the same in spirit. For over a billion Muslims worldwide, Eid is more than a festival. It’s a time of faith, family, and feasting. The days leading up to it are filled with anticipation—markets brimming with sweets and silks, homes adorned with twinkling lights, and children dreaming of their Eidi (gift money). But while the essence of Eid remains the same, the way it’s celebrated varies beautifully across cultures. Every country adds a unique flavor to the occasion, from camel races in Dubai to Maamoul cookie feasts in Lebanon. In Africa, communities gather for massive street feasts, sharing traditional dishes with neighbors. In South Asia, henna stalls and jewelry markets stay open all night, catering to families eager to complete their Eid look. Meanwhile, multicultural Eid festivals bring together diverse Muslim communities in Europe and the Americas, showcasing traditions worldwide. In Indonesia, Takbiran processions fill the streets, with people chanting prayers while beating drums. In Somalia, families slaughter livestock and distribute meat to the poor, embodying the spirit of giving. In Bosnia, people bake traditional pita and share it with loved ones, reinforcing the bonds of family and friendship. As the crescent moon ushers in this joyous occasion, one thing becomes clear: Eid is not just a celebration; it’s a global connection woven through faith, love, and tradition. So, how does the world celebrate Eid? Let’s journey through its colors, customs, and cherished moments. The Build-Up to Eid: A Time of Preparation and Anticipation The final days of Ramadan bring a shift from deep spiritual reflection to a joyous sense of anticipation. As the holy month draws to a close, Muslims worldwide prepare for Eid al-Fitr in unique ways. The excitement is felt in the streets, homes, and the hearts of millions as they prepare to celebrate one of Islam’s most cherished festivals. As Ramadan nears its end, Muslims devote themselves to prayers, charity, and last-minute preparations. In Saudi Arabia, Mecca and Medina witnessed a surge of pilgrims performing their final Ramadan prayers at Islam’s holiest sites. The air is filled with spiritual fulfillment as worshippers gather to seek blessings before the month ends. In Pakistan and India, the focus shifts to Laylat al-Qadr, the “Night of Power,” believed to be the holiest night of the year. Mosques overflow with worshippers, some praying until dawn, seeking divine forgiveness and mercy. In Indonesia and Malaysia, the atmosphere is vibrant as communities organize Takbir Keliling, a grand procession where people chant prayers while carrying beautifully decorated lanterns, symbolizing the light of faith and unity. As Eid approaches, markets and shopping centers come alive with activity. In Cairo, Egypt, the historic Khan el-Khalili market bustles with families buying new clothes, sweets, and home decorations. Street vendors sell colorful lanterns while the aroma of freshly baked Eid treats fills the air. In Dubai, UAE, the excitement is even grander. Luxury malls extend their hours for Eid-exclusive sales, with extravagant light displays illuminating the city’s skyline. Families rush to buy the perfect abaya or kandura, ensuring they look their best for the celebrations. In Turkey, bakers work tirelessly to prepare kilograms of Baklava, a signature Eid treat made of layered pastry, nuts, and sweet syrup. Meanwhile, tailors stay up late, stitching elegant Eid outfits for customers eager to wear something new on special days. The Mehndi (henna) tradition is in full swing in South Asia. Women and girls gather in salons or at home, getting their hands adorned with intricate floral and paisley patterns. The deeper the henna color, the more festive the occasion feels. Young girls excitedly compare designs, while older women share stories of past Eids. The most awaited moment before Eid is the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the official end of Ramadan. Different countries follow their traditions when determining Eid. In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, astronomical calculations help set Eid dates in advance, ensuring that government offices and businesses can plan holidays accordingly. However, physical moon sightings are preferred in Pakistan, Morocco, and Indonesia. This sometimes leads to different countries celebrating Eid on slightly different days, adding to the cultural diversity of the festival In West Africa, entire communities gather at mosques and public squares, waiting for the announcement from religious leaders. As soon as the crescent moon is seen, mosques erupt with joyful chants of “Eid Mubarak!” signaling the final countdown to the festival. Children run through the streets cheering while families prepare their homes for the grand celebrations. Eid Morning: A Sacred Start to the Celebration Eid morning is a beautiful blend of spirituality and festivity. From the grand mosques of Mecca to the open fields of Bangladesh, millions of Muslims come together in an act of unity for the special Eid prayers. The air is filled with peace, gratitude, and excitement as families wake up early, dress in their finest clothes, and head out for the most significant event of the day—the Eid prayer. One of the most breathtaking sights on Eid morning is the mass prayer gatherings held worldwide. In Bangladesh, the Sholakia Eidgah hosts the country’s largest Eid prayer, with over 500,000 worshippers assembling in an open field to perform the special prayer. The sea of white garments and raised hands in worship creates an awe-inspiring moment of collective devotion. In Turkey, the Hagia Sophia Mosque is a historical and spiritual landmark filled with thousands of worshippers offering prayers in unison. The ancient walls, which have witnessed centuries of history, now resonate with the sounds of Takbir (praises of God) as people bow together in gratitude. In Pakistan, major

Maryna Karpeka Voyage of a Beauty Queen through Cultural Appreciation and Authenticity By Wajiha Naaz From Winning Miss Europe to Embracing Life in Saudi Arabia, the Ukrainian Model Inspires with Confidence and Kindness Maryna Karpeka’s journey in the world of beauty and fashion has been nothing short of extraordinary. From winning Miss CosmoWorld 2023 and being crowned Miss Europe 2022 to building a thriving career as a model and influencer, she continues to inspire with her resilience, passion, and dedication to her craft. Her experiences have shaped her into a strong, confident woman, eager to make a difference in the industry and beyond. The Impact of Winning International Titles Winning Miss CosmoWorld 2023 and Miss Europe 2022 was a life-changing experience for Maryna, influencing both her professional and personal growth. These prestigious titles opened doors to modeling opportunities, brand collaborations, and public speaking engagements, solidifying her presence in the fashion industry. More than just accolades, these victories have given her a platform to inspire others, advocate for important causes, and embrace new challenges with confidence and determination. “Winning this title gave me incredible exposure and credibility in the modeling industry. It connected me with global brands, fashion houses, and inspiring individuals, allowing me to expand my influence and make a meaningful impact. More than just a title, it gave me a voice to support causes I care about and inspire others.” Through these achievements, she has learned the value of perseverance, hard work, and self-belief, and she is excited for what the future holds. Embracing Life in Saudi Arabia Currently based in Saudi Arabia, Maryna finds inspiration in the country’s rich culture and rapid development. As a Ukrainian model and influencer, she has embraced the values of modesty, tradition, and respect, which are deeply embedded in Saudi society. She appreciates the evolving fashion industry that blends modernity with tradition, allowing her to explore a new side of modeling that aligns with her appreciation for elegance. “The kindness and acceptance I’ve received here make me feel at home. I love the cultural richness, the warmth of the people, and the opportunities for personal and professional growth. The fashion scene is evolving beautifully, and I enjoy being part of that transformation.” Being part of such a dynamic and diverse society has helped her grow both personally and professionally, reinforcing her adaptability and open-mindedness. The Power of Social Media With 135,000 followers on Instagram and over 600,000 on TikTok, Maryna, known as SupergirlMaryna, has built a strong online presence. She views her followers as an extended family and takes great responsibility in sharing meaningful and authentic content.  Whether showcasing fashion and beauty on Instagram or expressing her playful and creative side on TikTok, she ensures that everything she posts reflects her true self. “Authenticity and consistency are my secrets to success. I always stay true to who I am, work hard, and engage meaningfully with my audience. Passion and dedication are key to sustaining success in this industry. Balancing it all takes time and effort, but because I love what I do, it never feels like work.” She values engagement with her audience and prioritizes authenticity, only collaborating with brands that align with her personal values. Overcoming Challenges in Modeling Despite the allure of the modeling world, it comes with its own set of challenges. Maintaining peak physical and mental health, navigating industry competition, and staying consistent in a fast-paced environment require discipline and resilience. Maryna approaches these challenges with a positive mindset, focusing on self-care, fitness, and personal growth. “I believe that taking care of myself, both physically and mentally, is essential not just for modeling but for feeling confident and happy in life.” Her dedication to self-improvement and professionalism keeps her at the top of her game, allowing her to stand out in a highly competitive industry. Advice for Aspiring Models For those entering international beauty pageants, Maryna emphasizes the importance of confidence, preparation, and authenticity. “Pageants are about more than beauty, they require personality, intelligence, and the ability to inspire others.” She encourages aspiring models to embrace their uniqueness, stay disciplined with a healthy lifestyle, and always remain true to themselves. “Believe in yourself, stay confident, and never let setbacks discourage you. Hard work, passion, and resilience will always lead to success. Stay true to your values and always be kind to others.” Passion for Charity and Animal Welfare Beyond fashion, Maryna is deeply passionate about humanitarian efforts, particularly in supporting her home country, Ukraine.  She also has a deep love for animals, having rescued five cats in Riyadh. She hopes to open a shelter in the future to provide care and protection to animals in need. “Charity is very important, we should always be kind and help those in need, whether it’s people or animals.” Future Aspirations Looking ahead, Maryna envisions continued growth in the modeling and fashion industry. She aspires to collaborate with renowned brands and expand her influence on an international level. Additionally, she plans to launch her own line of abayas and modest dresses, blending elegance with cultural appreciation. To further connect with her audience in the region, she is learning Arabic, reinforcing her commitment to building meaningful relationships within her community. “I’m excited about launching my own fashion line, working on more international collaborations, and continuing to use my platform to inspire and empower others.” A Message of Inspiration Maryna’s ultimate goal is to inspire people to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. “If you stick to your dreams and do what you love, you can achieve great things.” She reminds others that challenges are a part of life but should never be a reason to give up. “Beauty is not just about appearance; it comes from confidence, self-care, and being true to yourself.” Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and kindness. As she continues to evolve and inspire, one thing remains certain, Maryna Karpeka is a force to be reckoned with in the world of fashion and