Lifestyle

Abdulaziz Al Shehri Initiating Esports in the Middle East By Afef Yousf Abdulaziz Alshehri, widely known as MrDone, is a trailblazer in the esports world and a source of inspiration for gamers across the Middle East. His journey from an unlikely start to becoming a global champion demonstrates the transformative power of passion, determination, and belief in one’s abilities. With an unrelenting drive to challenge stereotypes and elevate the region’s standing in competitive gaming, Abdulaziz has achieved milestones that have redefined the esports landscape. Initially, Abdulaziz had no intention of pursuing gaming. It was his brother who introduced him to a newly launched game, suggesting he give it a try. Disinterested at first, Abdulaziz dismissed the game entirely, vowing never to play again. Yet, something pulled him back, and before long, he found himself playing with increasing frequency. What began as a casual interest soon turned into an obsession, leading to a pivotal moment when he defeated the best player in the Middle East during his first year of gaming.  This achievement marked the beginning of his extraordinary journey, transforming a reluctant player into one of the most celebrated esports champions in the region. Abdulaziz’s rise to prominence was driven by a persistent question: why had the Middle East struggled to excel in football or gaming compared to the successes seen in Europe and the United States? This reflection ignited a mindset that became his guiding principle: the belief that hard work and determination could bridge any gap.  For Abdulaziz, it was not about physical or intellectual superiority but about the effort one puts in. His victory at the FIFA World Cup not only validated his philosophy but also inspired countless others in the Middle East to believe in their potential. The ripple effect of his win has been monumental, as more players from the region have emerged on the global stage, driven by the confidence that they, too, can achieve greatness. Throughout his career, Abdulaziz has collaborated with global organisations that have shaped him both personally and professionally. Working with brands like Red Bull and Adidas has allowed him to contribute to initiatives that make a tangible difference. He fondly recalls his involvement in Red Bull’s Run for Those Who Can’t Run, a project dedicated to supporting people with disabilities.  Similarly, his work with Adidas on Run for the Ocean combined fitness with environmental stewardship, with every kilometre tracked through an app resulting in the removal of a plastic bottle from the ocean. These projects reflect Abdulaziz’s commitment to leveraging his platform to create a better world. In addition to his competitive pursuits, Abdulaziz has taken on a leadership role in nurturing talent within the region. He founded the MrDone Game On tournament, the first individual competition of its kind in the Middle East. Spanning countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and the UAE, the event aims to discover and support emerging players.  The winner earns not only cash prizes but also the opportunity to accompany Abdulaziz to the FIFA World Cup in Madrid and attend the Champions League final. This initiative has further cemented Abdulaziz’s legacy as a mentor and advocate for regional esports talent. Abdulaziz’s journey has not been without challenges. He vividly remembers a high-stakes match in Madrid against the reigning world champion. Despite facing bias from an organiser who openly supported his opponent, Abdulaziz managed to turn the game around, drawing in the final moments. This victory was not just a triumph on the field but a testament to his resilience. The same organiser who once cheered against him later applauded him as he lifted the World Cup trophy—a moment that encapsulated his ability to overcome adversity and win respect. The future of esports in Saudi Arabia excites Abdulaziz, as the Kingdom takes bold strides to establish itself as a global hub for gaming. With initiatives like the construction of Al Qiddiya, a city dedicated to gamers, and the hosting of the largest esports World Cup, Saudi Arabia is poised to revolutionise the industry. Abdulaziz credits Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for creating opportunities that will propel esports to unprecedented heights and is proud to contribute to this transformative journey. Currently, Abdulaziz is the Head of Esports at UR Pay Esports, a fully independent team with enormous potential. In an exclusive for Magnav Magazine, he revealed this exciting development, emphasising his pride in being part of a team that prioritises innovation and independence. As a seasoned professional, Abdulaziz has learned that success in esports hinges as much on mental fortitude as technical skill. Confidence, self-improvement, and resilience are, in his view, the cornerstones of achieving one’s goals. Looking back, Abdulaziz acknowledges the growth he has undergone, combining youthful courage with invaluable experience. This balance has kept him at the top of his game, with recent achievements including victories in the Agencies Championship and the Middle East Championship, where he remained unbeaten for three consecutive weeks. For aspiring gamers, his advice is both simple and profound: invest time and energy in something you love, stay mentally strong, and remain steadfast in your belief that success is within reach. Abdulaziz Alshehri’s story is not just about individual triumph but also about lifting an entire region onto the global stage. Through his achievements and initiatives, he has become a symbol of what is possible when talent meets determination. As he continues to push boundaries, Abdulaziz remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that with hard work and self-belief, the seemingly impossible can become reality.

Arabian Frontrunner Women By Amna Kanwal In recent years, Arab women have emerged as the vanguard of fashion, business, and lifestyle, seamlessly blending the deep cultural heritage of the Arab world with modern innovation. Their creative and entrepreneurial strides have not only transformed their local communities but have also made significant ripples on a global stage. These women are rewriting the narrative of what it means to honour tradition while embracing modernity, standing as powerful figures who inspire future generations across various sectors. From athletics to entrepreneurship, Arabian frontrunner women are proving that determination and talent know no boundaries. Hana Al Rostamani: A Beacon of Leadership in Finance Hana Al Rostamani is a pioneering figure in the financial world. She currently serves as the Group Chief Executive Officer of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest bank. Her appointment as the first woman to hold this prestigious position signifies a monumental shift in the male-dominated finance sector of the Arab world. With over 25 years of experience, Hana’s leadership is characterized by innovation, diversity, and inclusion. She is renowned for her transformative approach, particularly in leading the digital transformation of FAB’s personal banking services. Hana’s journey has seen her work across prestigious institutions such as First Gulf Bank, Citibank, and the AW Rostamani Group, providing her with both domestic and international expertise. Arabian frontrunner women continue to advocate for gender equality, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Her academic credentials from George Washington University, where she earned a B.Sc. in Business Administration and an M.Sc. in Information Management, highlight her intellectual rigor. But her influence stretches far beyond finance. As the Chair of the Global Council on the Sustainable Development Goals and a member of several keyboards, including Buna, which facilitates cross-border payments in the Arab region, she is actively shaping the future of regional finance. Through their resilience and vision, Arabian frontrunner women are redefining success in industries such as finance, arts, and public service. Hana’s legacy is one of breaking barriers—not just for herself, but for women across the Arab world. By focusing on financial literacy, innovation, and sustainable development, she represents the bridge between tradition and modernity. Her work symbolises a shift in Arab society, showing that women can—and should—lead at the highest levels, inspiring a new generation to break free of conventional roles. Honayda Serafi: Saudi Arabia’s Fashion Visionary Honayda Serafi, a distinguished Saudi fashion designer, is a woman who champions the fusion of cultural tradition with modern aesthetics. Her work embodies the power of fashion to tell stories, with each collection deeply rooted in the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia while appealing to a global audience. Growing up in a household immersed in the arts, Honayda developed a profound appreciation for creativity from a young age. Her mother, an art and fashion historian, instilled in her the importance of cultural identity, which she now intricately weaves into her designs. Educated in Paris, Honayda’s fashion career blossomed, where she mastered the art of balancing heritage with high fashion. Her fashion line represents empowerment and individuality, challenging conventional norms while embracing tradition. Honayda is more than a designer; she is a storyteller. Each piece she creates tells a narrative, often inspired by strong women and the power of self-expression. This is particularly vital in the Arab world, where she inspires women to be both proud of their cultural roots and unafraid to break new ground. In addition to her design work, Honayda is a passionate advocate for sustainability. She integrates eco-friendly materials and ethical practices into her fashion, setting a new standard for responsible luxury in the Middle East. Her philanthropic initiative ‘Sketch&Give,’ aimed at empowering young designers, further underlines her dedication to nurturing future generations. Honayda’s impact is undeniable, not just in fashion but in empowering Arab women to find their voice and take centre stage on the global platform. She exemplifies the rising strength of Saudi women in a region experiencing rapid change. Shireen Abu El Ezz: Egyptian Actress and Cultural Advocate Shireen Abu El Ezz is a powerhouse in Egyptian cinema, theatre, and television, captivating audiences with her versatility and emotional depth. Her journey from a young aspiring actress to one of Egypt’s most celebrated talents speaks to her relentless commitment to her craft and her passion for the arts. Shireen’s career is defined by her ability to bring authenticity and profound emotion to her roles, which has earned her critical acclaim. But her influence goes beyond her on-screen presence. She is a vocal advocate for the arts, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping society. In a time when many traditional art forms are at risk of fading, Shireen uses her platform to promote the preservation of Egypt’s cultural heritage. The achievements of Arabian frontrunner women in technology and science are reshaping the global perception of the region. She also takes pride in mentoring young actors, guiding them through the complexities of the industry, and encouraging them to remain true to their unique voices. Her work in promoting cultural narratives that resonate with both local and international audiences makes her a cultural leader, ensuring that Egypt’s rich artistic heritage is both preserved and celebrated. Through her dedication to the arts and her commitment to community initiatives, Shireen Abu El Ezz is not just a star of the screen, but a vital figure in the Arab world’s cultural landscape. She represents the power of storytelling and the importance of art as a medium for cultural preservation and societal change. As role models, Arabian frontrunner women inspire young girls to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal limitations. Asalah Mostafa Nasri: The Voice of the Arab World Asalah Mostafa Nasri, commonly known as Asalah, is one of the Arab world’s most iconic singers. With her powerful, emotive voice, she has captured the hearts of millions, becoming a cherished figure across the Middle East. Born in Damascus, Asalah’s musical journey began early in life, and she has since evolved into a symbol of cultural pride and artistic