Author name: magnavme.com

Sandra Mansour Weaving Dreams into Fashion By Tania Chehabeddine Sandra Mansour, the French-Lebanese fashion designer born in the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland, is a woman of class and grace. Known for her extravagant red-carpet creations and exquisite bridal wear, Sandra has established herself as a storyteller through fashion. With a deep artistic sensibility, she crafts garments that are elegant, intricate, and timeless. Her designs have found a global audience, available in prestigious stores across the USA, UK, and France.  Recognized for her talent, she has been featured in Vogue multiple times, and in July 2020, she became the first Arab woman to collaborate with Swedish fashion giant H&M, launching her collection Fleur du Soleil. Her designs have since adorned iconic celebrities such as Gigi Hadid, Lady Gaga, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Anya Taylor-Joy. From Simple Beginnings to a World of Color Sandra’s journey into the world of fashion was not a single defining moment but rather a series of small, meaningful experiences. Growing up in Switzerland, she was surrounded by strong women who left a lasting impact on her. “Growing up, I was surrounded by strong, inspiring women, and I saw fashion as a way to celebrate femininity,” Sandra shares. “There wasn’t one defining moment, but rather a series of small moments,sketching endlessly, being fascinated by the craftsmanship behind garments, and realizing that this was my way of creating something meaningful.” Although she initially pursued a business degree, her love for painting led her to study Fine Arts, a decision that would later shape her approach to fashion design. Recognizing that fashion was an extension of her artistic expression, Sandra pursued a Master’s in Fashion Design at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni in Paris. To gain hands-on experience, she also interned with renowned Lebanese designer Elie Saab, refining her skills and immersing herself in the world of haute couture. “My journey into fashion started with a deep love for art and storytelling. I’ve always been drawn to the way fabrics, textures, and silhouettes can express emotions and narratives,” she explains. Sandra’s mission has always been to tell stories through her creations, ensuring that every piece is more than just a garment,it’s an experience. Over the years, she has balanced the interplay of creativity and business, a journey that has allowed her to evolve and leave a lasting impression in the fashion world. “The essence of my vision has remained the same,to create pieces that tell a story and make women feel beautiful. However, with time, I’ve become more pragmatic about the industry, understanding the balance between creativity and business. The goal has evolved to not only design but to build something lasting and meaningful.” A Love Letter to Beirut In 2010, Sandra took a leap of faith and launched her own label, Sandra Mansour, specializing in bridal and evening wear. Although born in Switzerland, she chose Beirut as the home for her first atelier, a decision that reflects her deep connection to Lebanon. “My heritage is deeply woven into my work,there’s the precision of Swiss craftsmanship, the romanticism of French aesthetics, and the richness of Lebanese storytelling and artisanal traditions. Beyond that, I’m inspired by nature, poetry, and historical references. There’s always an element of nostalgia in my designs, a bridge between past and present.” Lebanon’s resilience and beauty have become a significant source of inspiration for Sandra, influencing not only her designs but also her brand’s identity. The combination of Swiss precision, French romanticism, and Lebanese artistry has made her creations distinct in the world of fashion. A Woman for Women Empowering women through fashion has always been at the heart of Sandra Mansour’s philosophy. She believes in designing garments that make women feel confident, timeless, and effortlessly beautiful. “I want women to feel confident, timeless, and effortlessly beautiful. My designs are about embracing individuality, feeling empowered yet soft, strong yet delicate. It’s about wearing a piece that feels like an extension of yourself rather than a costume.” A fierce advocate for female empowerment, Sandra is dedicated to ensuring that her designs celebrate the essence of womanhood. Whether it’s a dreamy bridal gown or a bold red-carpet look, she crafts pieces that inspire confidence and self-expression. “I love the transition from an idea to a tangible piece,the moment a sketch turns into a garment. There’s something magical about seeing a dress come to life on a woman. My inspiration always leads the way, but I design for women who are both strong and delicate, who appreciate artistry and craftsmanship.” Threads of Insight A day in Sandra Mansour’s life begins with a moment of peace before transitioning into a whirlwind of creativity and productivity. “Every day is different, but it always starts with a moment of stillness,coffee, looking through my sketches, setting the tone for the day. Then, it’s a mix of fittings, fabric selections, meetings with my team, and a lot of problem-solving. The creative part is the most rewarding, but running a fashion house also means navigating logistics, production, and ensuring everything comes together seamlessly.” The fashion industry is not without its challenges, and Sandra has learned to navigate them with resilience and adaptability. “Fashion is a demanding industry, and building a brand requires resilience. From production challenges to financial hurdles, each difficulty has been a learning experience. I’ve learned to adapt, to trust my instincts, and most importantly, to surround myself with the right people. Staying true to my vision, while being open to evolution, has been key.” Reflecting on her journey, Sandra advises aspiring designers to trust the process and embrace each step of their evolution. “I’d tell my younger self to trust the process and not rush. Everything unfolds at its own pace. To aspiring designers, I’d say: be patient, be persistent, and never compromise on your vision. Fashion is not just about creating clothes; it’s about building a voice and a story. Stay true to what makes your work unique, and always keep learning.” A Story for the Future Sandra Mansour’s latest Autumn-Winter 2025-2026

ARABIAN FRONTRUNNER The Women Leading the way Pioneers of Change and Progress By Tania Chehabeddine Women across the Arab world have been making significant strides in various fields, breaking barriers and redefining the limits of possibility. From corporate leadership to sustainable fashion and environmental advocacy, these remarkable women are paving the way for future generations. Their journeys are not just personal triumphs but are emblematic of broader social changes, empowering other women to challenge conventions and carve out their own paths to success. This article highlights the inspiring stories of four such pioneers: Huda Al-Ghoson, Ghada Al Subaey, Leena Al Olaimy, and Wadha Al-Khateeb. History has shown that women leading movements can drive powerful societal transformations. Huda Al Ghoson  Saudi ArabiaHuda Al-Ghoson, a formidable leader and a champion of women’s empowerment, made history by becoming the first woman to hold a senior executive position at Saudi Aramco, the world’s fourth-largest oil company by revenue in 2024. With over three decades of experience, she serves as a role model for women across the Arab world, demonstrating the power of resilience and determination in male-dominated industries. Born and raised in Riyadh, Al-Ghoson credits much of her success to her family’s unwavering support, particularly her late mother, Shaha Deghaither, who instilled in her the values of perseverance and ambition. This strong maternal influence shaped her journey, allowing her to inspire the next generation of women to follow in her footsteps. When women leading unite, they create unstoppable networks of support and progress. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from King Saud University in 1980, she joined Aramco in 1981, eager to develop her career. By 1986, she had obtained an MBA from the American University in Washington, further enhancing her leadership credentials through executive training from esteemed institutions. In 2009, after years of dedication and overcoming societal barriers, she achieved what many had deemed impossible—securing a senior leadership position as a woman in Saudi Arabia. Recognised for her talent and self-determination, Al-Ghoson has received numerous accolades, including a fourth-place ranking on Forbes’ “200 Most Powerful Arab Women – 2014: Executive Management” list.  Despite working in a male-dominated sector, her commitment to advancing women’s opportunities remains steadfast, as she continues to use her story to encourage perseverance, much as her mother once did for her. Women leading in STEM fields are breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. The documentary showcased stories of women leading innovation in technology and science. Ghada Al Subaey  Qatar After a brief four-month stint as an accountant, Ghada Al Subaey quickly realised that the traditional office environment was not for her. Instead, she longed for the creativity and storytelling found in fashion, drawing inspiration from her childhood memories spent with her mother. Determined to pursue her passion, she joined forces with her sisters, Hend and Maha Al Subaey, to establish a fashion brand rooted in their Qatari heritage. In 2015, they launched 1309 Studios, named after their mother’s birthdate as a tribute to the inspiration she provided. After three years, her sisters decided to move on, leaving Ghada as the sole founder and Creative Director. Al Subaey’s vision extends beyond aesthetics; she seeks to redefine perceptions of the abaya, elevating it to a globally respected garment akin to the kimono. She is also deeply committed to empowering women, creating a safe space for them to thrive and support one another. Sustainability is a core principle of 1309 Studios. The brand utilises 70% vegan fabrics, including vegan linen and silk, and employs biodegradable, recyclable, and eco-friendly packaging. From entrepreneurship to activism, women leading the way are reshaping industries. In 2022, she launched The Cutting Studio, Qatar’s first fashion education initiative, dedicated to nurturing aspiring designers. Her designs have been embraced by celebrities such as actress Yasmine Sabri and influencer Huda Kattan, cementing her status on the international stage. From the monotonous world of accounting to the dynamic realm of fashion, Ghada Al Subaey continues to make waves, blending tradition with innovation to create a lasting impact. Leena Al Olaimy   Bahrain Leena Al Olaimy is a visionary advocate for social change and environmental sustainability. Passionate about achieving peace through non-violent means, she has dedicated her career to tackling pressing social and ecological challenges. In 2010, she co-founded 3BL Associates, an award-winning consultancy advising governments, corporations, and NGOs on sustainable and economically viable strategies. She also co-founded Public-Planet Partnerships, which strengthens human-nature connections, and Diversity On Board, which promotes the inclusion of accomplished Arab and North African women in leadership roles. In January 2022, Al Olaimy launched Symbaiosys, a pioneering initiative that secured the ‘Top Idea Stage Startup’ award at the Entrepreneurship World Cup before even officially opening. The company encourages businesses to invest in environmental conservation while demonstrating the financial benefits of doing so. Policies supporting women leading in politics are essential for true gender equality. Her contributions have earned her international recognition, including being named a Wall Street Journal “Woman of Note” and a Dalai Lama Fellow. She has delivered over 250 talks worldwide and authored the widely acclaimed book Compassionate Counterterrorism: The Power of Inclusion in Fighting Fundamentalism, which challenges misconceptions about Islam and explores alternative solutions to counter-terrorism. Al Olaimy’s relentless pursuit of positive change continues to influence policy, corporate responsibility, and social progress, solidifying her role as a thought leader in sustainability and human rights. Wadha Al Khateeb  Kuwait With over 30 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, Wadha Al-Khateeb has played a crucial role in Kuwait’s industrial development. As the former Deputy CEO of Mina Abdullah Refinery, she proved her leadership capabilities before being appointed CEO of Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC) in November 2022, overseeing more than 6,000 employees. Under her guidance, KNPC achieved a significant milestone in 2023 with its first export of 95-octane automotive fuel to European markets. She also serves as acting CEO of Kuwait Integrated Petroleum Industries Company (KIPIC). Al-Khateeb has been a driving force for environmental progress, leading the registration of Kuwait’s first “Flare Gas Recovery Unit” with the United Nations Framework

Revolutionizing Modest Fashion the Story of SOFIA D COLLECTION By Diana Brown The abaya and kaftan have long been integral to fashion in the UAE, traditionally influenced by South Asian styles or adorned with heavy embellishments. However, the landscape of modest fashion has been undergoing a transformation, led by designers who infuse modernity into tradition. Among these innovators is Sofia, the visionary behind Sofia D Collection, a brand redefining abayas with a contemporary and fashion-forward approach. A lifelong lover of abayas, Sofia’s journey into the fashion world began with a simple idea: to create elegant, modern designs that blended Western fashion elements with the modest aesthetic. Her designs first gained widespread attention when Joelle, the renowned beauty expert and television personality, wore one of her abaya dresses on her MBC show. At a time when social media had yet to dominate fashion exposure, the impact of this moment was profound. Viewers flooded Joelle with inquiries about the abaya dress, marking a pivotal moment for Sofia and confirming that her designs resonated deeply with Arab women, particularly Emiratis. This recognition fueled Sofia’s determination to establish her own brand, one that prioritizes class, comfort, and uniqueness. Inspired by a fusion of European fashion trends and cultural heritage, her designs incorporate the elegance, structure, and innovation of Western couture while preserving the intricate craftsmanship of traditional textiles. Every piece tells a story, balancing contemporary aesthetics with a deep-rooted appreciation for cultural identity. Sofia believes that the key to success in fashion lies in staying true to one’s vision while embracing continuous learning. Fashion is ever-evolving, but a distinct creative voice sets a designer apart. Mastery of fabrics, a keen eye for detail, and an unwavering dedication to refining one’s craft are essential elements of a successful brand.  She encourages young designers to draw inspiration from history, culture, and art while crafting something uniquely their own. Above all, she emphasizes patience and persistence—reminding aspiring creators that success is a journey built on passion and dedication. Describing her collection in three words—trendy, comfortable, and uniquely special—Sofia envisions an exciting future for her brand. She plans to expand her collection, experimenting with new fabrics and silhouettes that push the boundaries of abaya fashion while maintaining the elegance and modesty at its core. International expansion is also on the horizon, with the goal of reaching a global audience that appreciates fashion-forward designs rooted in cultural heritage. Through Sofia D Collection, she aims to redefine abaya fashion, merging tradition with modern sophistication in a way that feels fresh, inclusive, and effortlessly chic. Her journey is a testament to the power of innovation, proving that modest fashion can be both timeless and trendsetting.

SALLYHA DIN Merging Luxury Fashion with the Thrill of Motorcycling By Wajiha Naaz Sallyha Din’s journey is a unique blend of luxury fashion and motorcycling, two seemingly distinct worlds that she has seamlessly merged. Growing up with a love for both fashion and sports, she never saw them as separate passions. Instead, she embraced them together, feeling most herself when riding her bike while looking and feeling beautiful. For her, fashion and motorcycling are not just interests but integral parts of her identity. Motorcycling became a transformative force in her life. During a particularly challenging period, she decided to break free from limiting beliefs by pursuing one of her wildest dreams—riding a motorcycle. This decision changed everything. Once she took the leap, she never looked back. The experience made her more confident and self-reliant, teaching her the value of solitude and self-trust. Over time, she evolved into the person she always aspired to be, both on and off the bike. Her love for beauty led her to develop the concept of ‘Helmet Proof Beauty.’ This approach focuses on long-wear, budge-proof makeup for women who want to maintain their look without constant touch-ups. With a background in modeling and makeup artistry, she honed her skills to create beauty routines that last through long rides, press trips, and various climates.  Applying makeup is not just a routine for her; it’s a form of meditation that helps her embrace herself while also protecting her skin from environmental pollutants. More importantly, she hopes to inspire women to care for themselves, regardless of whether they wear makeup or not. Finding the perfect balance between safety and style as a motorcyclist was initially a challenge, especially given the lack of fashionable protective gear for women. However, with time and research, she discovered options like under-clothing armor, which allows her to maintain her style while staying protected. Owning a diverse collection of biker jackets also gives her the versatility to switch up her looks while ensuring safety on the road. Luxury beauty is an essential part of her content, and she spares no expense when it comes to selecting products that meet her ‘helmet-proof’ standards. With skincare being a priority, she carefully considers ingredients to ensure her makeup not only looks great but also benefits her skin. Throughout her career, collaborations have played a significant role in shaping her journey. Working with brands like Triumph, Royal Enfield, and Harley Davidson has taken her on incredible adventures, expanding her riding skills and introducing her to lifelong friendships. As an ambassador for Dainese London, she takes pride in representing brands that align with her passion for motorcycling.  In the beauty world, collaborations with Tatcha, Space NK, Harrods, and Memo Paris have been particularly meaningful, as she values authenticity and only supports brands she truly believes in. The recognition she receives from these collaborations reinforces her mission to create impactful content that resonates with her audience. Being a woman in the motorcycling community comes with unique challenges, particularly when also embracing fashion and beauty. She often faces skepticism and is underestimated, but she combats imposter syndrome by continuously improving her skills and pushing herself beyond her comfort zone. Her dedication to mastering different riding styles and techniques has helped her establish credibility in the biking world. Encouraging others to blend their passions, she advises individuals to start creating without overthinking. Authenticity is key, and developing a unique identity in content creation takes time. Rather than seeking immediate validation, she believes in building a genuine community by consistently sharing what truly resonates. Looking ahead, she envisions expanding ‘Helmet Proof Beauty’ through collaborations, possibly curating a biker girl edit with brands. She also hopes to revive her podcast, ‘Ride of Your Life,’ which aligns with her mission to empower women who actively embrace life. Reflecting on her journey, the most rewarding aspect has been the ability to be her authentic self while connecting with like-minded individuals. Each day brings her closer to the person she has always dreamed of becoming, and that sense of fulfillment is what fuels her passion.

A Future Without LimitsQatar Vision 2030 and the Pursuit of Sustainable Prosperity By Amna Kanwal Across the sparkling sands of the Arabian Penainsul, Qatar stands as a nation driven by determination and ambition. Known for its wealth, culture, and modernity, the country has boldly charted a course for the future with an initiative to transform its society, economy, and environment. This forward-thinking commitment to progress encapsulates Qatar’s Vision 2030, a pioneering blueprint for sustainable growth and innovation. Launched in 2008 under the visionary leadership of then-Heir Apparent His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar National Vision 2030 is more than just a strategic plan. It promises to create a resilient, diversified, and knowledge-based economy with sustainability. By seamlessly integrating economic diversification, social development, environmental stewardship, and human resource investment, this vision signifies a bold step toward shaping a brighter, long-term future for not just Qatar but the world. Qatar’s economy has historically relied heavily on its vast reserves of natural gas and petroleum. While this wealth has propelled the nation into global prominence and allowed significant modernization, Qatar recognizes the need to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources. Vision 2030 aims to address this challenge by diversifying its economy to foster industries less reliant on fossil fuels, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous post-oil era. This goal isn’t just about economics; it acknowledges the pressing global conversation around sustainability. Qatar has thus placed itself at the intersection of addressing planetary concerns, driving technological advancement, and fostering social progress. The Four Pillars of Qatar Vision 2030 Human Development: Empowering the Nation’s Greatest Asset Qatar significantly emphasizes human development because its people are its most valuable resource. This involves establishing a world-class educational system that equips citizens to achieve their aspirations and meet society’s needs. Educational curricula and training programs are tailored to respond to the current and future demands of the labor market, ensuring that individuals are prepared for a rapidly changing world. By focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, Qatar ensures that its citizens are at the forefront of innovation and progress. Additionally, accessible educational programs for lifelong learning are prioritized, offering opportunities for professional development and personal growth to all citizens and residents. This aligns with Qatar’s commitment to building a knowledge-driven economy that values creativity and innovation at every stage of life. In healthcare, Qatar strives for a world-class system that caters to the diverse needs of its population. Preventive healthcare is a key focus, with widespread awareness campaigns targeting issues such as healthy lifestyles, mental well-being, and early detection of diseases. Integrating advanced technologies, such as telemedicine and electronic health records, ensures improved efficiency and access across the healthcare system. High-quality research, spearheaded by institutions like the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, accelerates medical breakthroughs to address regional and global health challenges. This commitment ensures that all residents benefit from enhanced physical and mental healthcare services, fostering a healthier, more vibrant society. Social Development: Fostering a Cohesive and Just Society Qatar’s Vision 2030 envisions a just and caring society with high moral and ethical standards. At the heart of this goal is the promotion of strong family structures, which serve as the foundation of society. National initiatives encourage families to maintain moral, cultural, and religious values, providing children with a nurturing environment that instills respect, tolerance, and responsibility.  Efforts are also focused on developing comprehensive social protection systems to ensure that every member of society has access to basic needs, civil rights, and economic opportunities. These systems aim to safeguard the dignity and well-being of individuals, particularly the most vulnerable, by offering financial stability and support services. Civil society organizations and public institutions play an instrumental role in preserving Qatar’s national identity while promoting openness to other cultures. Qatar fosters dialogue and mutual understanding with global communities through arts, literature, and cultural events. A key aspect of social development is women’s empowerment, enabling them to thrive in political, social, and economic spheres.  Programs are in place to provide women with education, employment opportunities, and leadership development initiatives. By ensuring that women have equal access to resources and decision-making roles, Qatar taps into the full potential of its population to create a genuinely inclusive and vibrant society. This inclusive outlook positions Qatar as a progressive nation that values diversity and social cohesion. Economic Development: Diversifying for a Sustainable Future While Qatar has thrived as one of the largest natural gas exporters, QNV 2030 underscores the necessity of a diversified economy that can sustain growth for future generations. To achieve this, Qatar supports strategic investments in industries beyond hydrocarbons, such as information technology, renewable energy, tourism, and creative industries.  This forward-thinking approach is matched by government policies that stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship, mainly through significant funding and resource allocation to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These businesses are the backbone of the private sector and contribute to a more robust, competitive economy. Infrastructure development lies at the core of Qatar’s diversification efforts. Iconic projects like Lusail City and Msheireb Downtown Doha integrate cutting-edge technology with sustainability principles, creating smart cities that serve as global business hubs. Additionally, Qatar’s ambitious transportation network, which encompasses the Doha Metro, Hamad Port, and the expanded Hamad International Airport, enhances the country’s role as a logistical and trade hub connecting the East and West.  Strategic partnerships and foreign investments further strengthen domestic industries, ensuring a resilient economy capable of adapting to global trends. By nurturing a knowledge-based economy and promoting sustainable practices, Qatar paves the way for long-term economic prosperity. Environmental Development: Stewardship for Future Generations Environmental development is central to Qatar’s Vision 2030, reflecting the nation’s dedication to preserving natural resources for future generations. One of the primary goals is to promote sustainable resource consumption, mainly by reducing the carbon footprint through cleaner energy solutions.  Renewable energy, like solar and wind, is rapidly being integrated into the national grid, supporting efforts to transition away from fossil fuels. Nationwide programs,