Arts Culture Clubs Sports Interviews Lifestyle Dining Nightlife bahrainthismonth.com Digital Edition Since 1997 April 2023 | Vol. 27 | Issue 4 | BD2 / SR20 WTM DINING PEOPLE EDUCATION SPECIAL YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE CSB and Why It’s an Excellent Choice An Insight into Educational Institutions, Their Curricula and Facilities Jaap Vaandrager Receives Dutch Honour President of the Belgian Senate, Stephanie D’Hose and Belgian Ambassador, HE Marc Trentesau Wildlife Photographer, Nistar PS Iftars, Ghabgas, and More Head of Treasury at GIB, Maisa Al-Haddad Turkish Violinist, Suay Doganay In Her Shoes Hanan Hasan
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www.womanthismonth.com April 2023 5 APRIL 2023 Bahrain This Month George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman COVER Canadian School- Bahrain www.bahrainthismonth.com Scan this QR Code to subscribe to the digital edition of the magazine. Printing Press Union Press, Bahrain Published monthly by RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: [email protected] www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2023 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission. • Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. Welcome to another exciting edition of Bahrain This Month. We can expect a serene month ahead of us with Ramadan taking centre stage, but that’s not to say there won’t be much to do across the island. As always, we’ll let you know how to make the most of the monthly happenings. Education is undoubtedly a cornerstone and development indicator; not only for individuals but also for nations. This month, we are proud to present our education feature which highlights 11 of Bahrain’s finest private education institutions from kindergarten through to universities. Through this feature, our total audience, encompassing both digital and print, can have a deeper understanding of the ethos, function and objectives behind some of these leading establishments, their range of facilities and, most importantly, the curricula and programmes available to students. To mark World Health Day, which takes place on April 7 every year, we interviewed the leading health practitioner and President of the Bahrain Medical Society – Dr. Amer Alderazi. Being the General & Bariatric Surgery Consultant at Middle East Hospital, he talks to us about obesity and the latest technologies and medications employed to fight it. This month, we also interviewed HE Marc Trentesau, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the State of Kuwait and the Non-Resident Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, who visited the island last month to receive the oath of Mrs. Martine Kindt, the new Honorary Consul of Belgium to the Kingdom of Bahrain. With the oath-taking ceremony coinciding with the 146th InterParliamentary Union Assembly which was hosted in the Kingdom for the first time, the President of the Belgian Senate, Stephanie D'Hose, was also in attendance for an exciting joint interview. We also had a fantastic chat with Jaap Vaandrager, a prominent figure in the Middle East for the past 40 years, who recently received a Knighthood from the Netherlands making him a Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau. Our final interviewee is the wildlife photographer Nistar PS who will be exhibiting his breath-taking imagery later this month. The showstopping iftars and ghabgas presented by Bahrain’s finest hotels this month feature a range of delectable cuisines, traditional décor and relaxing entertainment. We present you with some of the best options in our dining section. You can also read our reviews of the fantastic Butcher Shop and Grill, and the Khaimat Al Khaleej Ramadan tent at Gulf Hotel. There’s also quite literally something for everyone in our carefully-curated events section this month. Which will you attend? A two-day rock festival, massive shopping bazaar, a kids Easter party or a night farmer’s market? Don’t miss our race report on the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in our Motoring section, or Bill Grieve’s article on personal data privacy! In Woman This Month, you’ll find the inspiring interview with the Vice President of Treasury Investment at GIB, Maisa Al-Haddad – an exceptional leader with over 20 years of experience in the banking sector. We also had a chat with the phenomenal violinist, Suay Dogonay, who has been mesmerising listeners across Bahrain. Our team also brings you up to speed with some phenomenal fashion, beauty essentials and more. Needless to say, there’s plenty to look forward to! Remember to visit bahrainthismonth.com to explore ‘Your Guide to a Great Way of Life’ and to follow our official social media platforms for more! THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editor Farah Baig Assistant Editor Kristian Harrison Online Editor Farrah Saville Contributors Ouiam El Hassani, Pria Masson, Bill Grieve Editorial Consultant Ahdeya Ahmed Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Art Director Hatem Monem Webmaster Nishad Eapen CRM & Database Coordinator Muna Yousef Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales Director Anuradha Manhas [email protected] Digital Media Executive Amina Syed [email protected] DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Director of Film Danny Sokov Social Media Managers Shilu Babu, Rohit Reghunath
www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander 6 April 2023 Formula 1 2023 There were fireworks both on and off the track during the 2023 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix as a sell-out crowd witnessed a stunning spectacle at the Bahrain International Circuit. A record-breaking figure of 36,000 saw Max Verstappen take the chequered flag on race day, with a stunning total of 99,500 spectators attending over the whole weekend. More than 10,000 attendees were international visitors, also a record high in the event’s 19-year history. Arguably the biggest social event on Bahrain’s calendar, the Formula 1 weekend was hailed as a huge success, with fans revelling in a true festival atmosphere. Alongside epic, crowd-pleasing concerts from DJ Snake and Craig David, other thrilling experiences such as a giant Ferris Wheel, a haunted house, a plethora of street performers, race-related games and activities, and a variety of food and beverage outlets, kept fans entertained throughout the three days of action.
www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander April 2023 7
8 April 2023 www.bahrainthismonth.com 18 20 27 59 62 78 82 22 APRIL 12 HAPPENINGS INTERVIEW DINING EDUCATION FEATURE 74 OPINION 78 MOTORING 82 COMMERCE ISSUE 308 CONTENTS 24 Representing Belgium We speak to Belgian Senate President, Stephanie D’Hose, and Belgian Ambassador, HE Marc Trentesau. A Knight of the Order Jaap Vandraager receives Dutch Honour. Battling the Bulge President of the Bahrain Medical Society and Consultant General & Bariatric Surgery at MEH, Dr. Amer Alderazi on obesity. Into the Wild Wildlife photographer, Nistar PS, on his upcoming exhibition. Magnificent Meat and More We dine at the Butcher Shop and Grill. An in-depth look into the facilities, curricula and team at leading educational establishments in Bahrain. Ramadan Decadence A feast at The Gulf Hotel’s Khaimat Al Khaleej. Tablehopping Iftars, ghabgas, Eid dining and more. 18 20 22 24 59 27 61 62 61
April 2023 www.womanthismonth.com 1010 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery American Jazz In collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the US Embassy hosted a concert featuring American jazz band “Brassa-holics” at the Cultural Hall. The eight-membered brass band, which generally consists of brass instruments and a percussion section, played upbeat New Orleans styled music. APRIL ISSUE 240 CONTENTS 92 98 100 94 95 101 96 www.womanthismonth.com womanthismonth rhmbahrain Accessories to Love Bejewel your Ramadan and Eid attire. Setting Boundaries Ouiam El Hassani on how to set boundaries with your kids. The Grey Matter In this edition of ‘The Things We Don’t Say’, Farrah Saville talks about living with the uncertainties of life. Woman in the Lead In conversation with the Head of Treasury at GIB, Maisa Al-Haddad. In Her Shoes Get to know the PR and Corporate Communication Manager at BENEFIT, Hanan Hasan. Queen of the Violin Turkish violinist, Suay Doganay on her journey as a musician. Your Eid Beauty Essentials Highly recommended fragrances, skincare and more. FASHION PEOPLE OPINION BEAUTY
happenings www.bahrainthismonth.com/events 12 April 2023 MUSIC TO OUR EARS APRIL 27 AND 28 BAHRAIN ROCKS MUSIC FESTIVAL DILMUN CLUB Live music seems to be a bit of a rarity these days, so it is with a massive grin that we tell you that Bahrain Rocks 2023 will be returning this month. News on the street? It’s going to be bigger than ever! Bahrain Rocks aims to support the local music scene, especially the Rock and alternative music scenes and has grown year on year since its inception. So, you can expect a fun weekend of music that speaks to your soul with a fantastic line up of tribute bands and some of the Kingdom’s favourite bands too! The two-day festival starts on Thursday from 5pm with Rod Blues, Roughhouse, Red Hot Chili Peppers (tribute), Bloodshel and AC/DC (UK’s premium tribute to AC/DC) taking the stage. Friday’s line-up starts at 12pm with the acoustic bands Bella Jade and Twocoustics. This will be followed by Past Masters, BG Harmony, Twisted Lemons, The Relocators, Rock United, Jukebox Junkies. Tributes to Guns N’ Roses and Bryan Adams. Two-day and single-day tickets are available at the Dilmun Club reception. Adults’ tickets are priced at BD12 for the weekend, or BD7 for Thursday or Friday. Tickets for children under 18 are priced at BD5 while children under 6 enter for free. All Dilmun Club members enter for free. For those about to rock, we salute you!. Call 17 690-926. AN EGGCITING DAY APRIL 8 KIDS EASTER PARTY DILMUN CLUB A WHOLE LOT OF SHOPPING APRIL 1 TO 3 MODA EXPO GULF HOTEL CONVENTION CENTRE Here’s an exciting event for kids this Easter! The Dilmun Club has quite a fun party planned for the young’uns with several activities including an egg and spoon race, bouncy castles, pony rides, water slides, kids disco, piñata, games and crafts. And, of course, the Easter Bunny! The Kids Easter Party will take place from 12pm to 6pm. Entry for members’ kids is BD4 while guests’ kids can attend for BD8. Guest family passes are available for BD15. Call 17 690-926. APRIL HAPPENINGS Shop till you drop at the Ramadan Edition of the Moda Expo. This year, the three-day shopping expo is even more exciting with over 100 unique exhibitors. There’s plenty to find including jewellery, accessories, fragrances, makeup, skincare and more. Fashion, as always, is a major highlight at the event with fantastic abayas, jalabiyas, lehengas and dresses too! It’s the perfect opportunity for you to shop before Eid. The expo will take place from 1pm to 5pm and from 7pm to 1am. Entry is free for all. Call 33 207-742.
happenings www.bahrainthismonth.com/events 13 April 2023 IN TUNE WITH TRADITIONS APRIL 5 TO APRIL 8 HERITAGE FESTIVAL 2023 SOUQ AL BARAHA, DIYAR AL MUHARRAQ INSIGHTFUL ART UNTIL THE END OF RAMADAN ‘RITE OF PASSAGE’ EXHIBITION AL RIWAQ – BANK HOUSE RAMADAN DAYS (AND NIGHTS TOO!) APRIL 8 RAMADAN NIGHT MARKET BUDAIYA BOTANICAL GARDEN HIGH OCTANE ACTIVITIES APRIL 8 AND APRIL 15 RAMADAN BURNOUT NIGHTS BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT Al Riwaq will be open from Monday to Saturday from 11am to 3pm and from 8pm to 11.11pm, and on Sundays from 11am to 3pm. Entry is free for all. Al Riwaq Art Space invites you to visit the insightful exhibition ‘Rite of Passage’ which presents the work of the Al Riwaq’s first cohort of Application 001. The exhibition explores four different points of view on ‘rites of passage’ and presents personal narratives that critically explore social practices. The artists participating in this exhibition are Ali Hussain, Ishaq Madan, Shaikha Al Salman, and Hisham Sharif. Call 17 041-192. The Farmer’s Market is a much-loved family event on Bahrain’s social calendar. So, naturally, everyone is overjoyed at the fact that the market will continue this Ramadan at a slightly different timing than usual. For the first three weeks of Ramadan, the Farmer’s Market continues every Saturday from 1pm to 6pm with some of the best local produce, plants and more market favourites available at an excellent price. At night, you can enjoy a completely different market at the same venue with the Ramadan Night Market from 8.30pm to midnight. What makes this market unique is the bazaar feel with traditional food and Ramadan staples, clothing, traditional crafts, honey, art and more available. It’s sure to be a unique experience for you to enjoy with family and friends! Follow @farmersbh on Instagram. Speed enthusiasts are in-store for sensational Saturdays courtesy of ‘The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East’. Ramadan Burnout Nights will see participants put on a fantastic show of rising white smoke at BIC’s Vehicle Dynamics Area. The high-octane activities surrounding Ramadan Burnout Nights attract huge crowds every year, and so the BIC is ready to welcome fans with a capacity of nearly 3,000 seats in the Spectator Grandstand, Crew Grandstand and VIP Grandstand overlooking the Vehicle Dynamics Area. Participants can register on site from 4pm onwards on Saturday, with the action taking place from 8pm to 12midnight. The cost to take part is BD8 for each participant, with an additional BD5.5 for a passenger and a BD5.5 fee for a crew member. All entrants’ vehicles must meet specific eligibility criteria before being permitted to take part. Tickets for spectators are BD2 per head and BD3 for VIP seating, while VIP parking is available at BD5. Visit bahraingp.com or call 17 450-000. The Bahrain Annual Heritage Festival returns in its 29th edition this year under the slogan ‘Ramadan Traditions’. This enlightening festival will highlight a number of customs related to the Holy Month of Ramadan which are considered components of the Bahraini identity to this day. The festival is being organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. Be sure to follow their official account for updates related to the festival. Follow @culturebah on Instagram.
Japanese Reception On the occasion of the 63rd birthday of HM the Emperor of Japan, the Japanese Ambassador, HE Miyamoto Masayuki, and the Japanese Embassy held a reception at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.
THE BEST RAMADAN EXPERIENCE AT THE ICONIC TENT The iconic Ramadan Tent of Bahrain returns with buffets and live stations of oriental and worldwide cuisines for a culinary feast. New for this year, the Premium Experience brings full table-waited service with elegant tableware, Chef’s recommended menu, and a dedicated Four Seasons Butler. Live music during Ghabga, entertainment for kids, and special prices for groups of 30 and above are available. Iftar: BHD 35 I Ghabga: BHD 38 I Premium Experience: BHD 55 (Given prices are net and per person.) Details and Reservations: (973) 1711 5500 [email protected] THE SPONSORS
www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery Ritz-Carlton Iftar The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held an iftar in its reopened grand tent, Masaya Pavilion, in partnership with stc Bahrain and in collaboration with Bentley Bahrain. 16 April 2023 bystander
FRENCH MANUFACTURER Tel. : 17564444 - E-mail : [email protected] Seef District, Facing Ritz Carlton Entrance www.phoeniciadecor.com SALE 20% – 50%
www.bahrainthismonth.com 18 April 2023 interview REPRESENTING BELGIUM His Excellency Marc Trentesau, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the State of Kuwait and the Non-Resident Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, visited the island last month to receive the oath of Mrs. Martine Kindt, the new Honorary Consul of Belgium to the Kingdom of Bahrain. Furthermore, with the oath-taking ceremony coinciding with the 146 th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly being hosted in the Kingdom for the first time, the President of the Belgian Senate, Stephanie D’Hose, was also in attendance. Kristian Harrison sat down with both of them to discuss the importance of the Honorary Consul position, the current state of bilateral relations between the two countries and more. HE Marc Trentesau is a seasoned diplomat, having previously served as the Belgian Ambassador to Indonesia, Turkey and Morocco before assuming his position in Kuwait whilst also remotely serving as Belgium’s chief diplomatic presence in Bahrain. His support in Bahrain has been heavily bolstered by the appointment of Mrs. Kindt, who now serves as the Honorary Consul. She will assist Belgian nationals in Bahrain with consular duties and also promote Belgian interests and the community in the Kingdom. “I am delighted to be here in Bahrain to open the Honorary Consulate of Belgium in Bahrain,” His Excellency said. “It’s been long overdue for us to have a presence like this here. We used to have one many years ago but the position was unfulfilled until Mrs. Kindt graciously agreed to take the position. It’s a proud moment for the Belgian community in Bahrain to see her take her oath and I have no doubt that she will do a fantastic job. “Honorary Consuls are volunteers who graciously support Belgian interests, especially in countries such as Bahrain without a permanent embassy. There is a relatively large community here with approximately 200
www.bahrainthismonth.com 19 April 2023 interview Belgians, which is a sizeable figure compared to many countries. It’s vitally important that they have someone to liaise with them, to be a trustworthy figure who can help them on the spot should they need it.” Belgium has had a special presence in the Middle East stretching back to the 1970s, being particularly active in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and, of course, Bahrain. One of the main industries that Belgian companies have interest in is dredging, and they have been vital in many aspects of construction in Bahrain, from land reclamation to modernising harbours and boosting logistical capacities. There are also numerous firms active in the medical sector, with large contracts signed with various hospitals, whilst recently a delegation from the European nation visited Oman to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to promote and develop green hydrogen projects. Belgium is a hub for producing and transporting gas, particularly hydrogen, in Europe and sees the Middle East as a platform for facilitating renewable energy as the world moves to more climate-friendly sources of power. “Belgium’s relation with Bahrain is very strong,” argues His Excellency. “It is clear that the Kingdom has undergone significant changes in the last five to 10 years, in terms of opening its doors wider to international businesses. This has been the most significant step by far taken to boost ties between the two countries and I know many Belgian companies, investors and their employees who reside here are extremely happy. “I’ve always felt warmly welcomed when I come to Bahrain and I appreciate how relaxed it is, so I can only imagine what it is like to live here. In fact, I am often told how nice it is!” As an ambassador, His Excellency was not directly involved in the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly (IPU) since delegations are reserved for parliamentarians, but he warmly received the President of the Belgian Senate, Stephanie D’Hose, and engaged in talks during the oath-taking ceremony. Ms. D’Hose has been the President of the Belgian Senate since October 2020 and is a representative of the Open Flemish Liberals and Democrats (Open VLD) party and at age 39 became the youngest person to ever hold the position. She has become a popular figure in Belgian politics with her focus on promoting liberal causes, and has become a role model for young, vibrant and forward-thinking women pursuing roles in industries that have been traditionally maledominated. “This is my second time visiting the Arab world after previously visiting Dubai,” she explained. “Therefore, I already experienced the vibe of the region and I was so excited to see Bahrain as I’ve heard so many good things about it. I flew in at night and my first thought was how peaceful and relaxing the place was, with the welcoming lights and the friendly people to greet us, whether that was at the airport or the hotel.” At the IPU, Ms. D’Hose gave an impassioned speech which was warmly received by nearly all patrons of the assembly, whether Bahraini nationals or international visitors. The overwhelming response, she says, emphasised the spirit of the Kingdom and encapsulated the warm, friendly atmosphere which it fosters. “It really made me want to come back and learn more about the culture and people here, since I strongly admire the Arab way of life,” she said. “The IPU has been a wonderful experience in general; as a speaker I’m so used to seeing delegates and orators in my country (the Belgian capital Brussels is the headquarters of the European Union) that it’s nice to meet so many people elsewhere for a change! “I’ve been impressed by how far women’s rights and opportunities have advanced in the region, with the recent parliamentary elections in Bahrain promoting more female representatives than ever before to parliament. It shows how progressive the region is becoming and I hope that my speech can inspire further change. “Ultimately, in my home country I am the first civilian so I have to defend everybody’s rights, even the ones of those who I don’t agree with. I have a tough balancing act to try and make ten political parties work together and find compromises. It is tough sometimes, but the whole purpose of politics is to be able to find solutions for the population and people in need, so if you can’t do that why enter it in the first place? My goal is always to help those who need it and get the ones who can make a difference to cooperate. “On a personal note, I will definitely return to Bahrain soon because I want to explore more of the country. I believe in one vision which is to experience as much in life as possible because you never know when it will end.”
interview www.bahrainthismonth.com 20 April 2023 Jaap Vaandrager has been a prominent figure in the Middle East for the past 40 years, establishing a major hydraulics company and also previously serving as the Dutch Honorary Consul in Bahrain for almost a decade. For his services in the region and his contributions towards boosting trade relations, he received a Knighthood from the Netherlands last month which made him a Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau. Kristian Harrison sat down with him to discuss his pride at being granted this royal honour, his history in the region and his thoughts on raising a family as an expat. A KNIGHT OF THE ORDER
interview www.bahrainthismonth.com 21 April 2023 Can you tell us about your background and how you ended up in the Middle East? Firstly, I want to apologise to my parents because I believe I was not the best student that they would have wished for! I didn’t like going to school much; I had many other interests. I had a shop where I was doing airbrush painting, I was fixing motorcycles and I had an advertising company. Then I worked as a garbageologist … a glamorous way of saying I was picking up garbage on the back of a truck. Basically, if there was anything other than school, I was doing it. Eventually, the garbage company decided I would be better served as a salesman than a garbage collector, so I became a sales executive as a better use of my skills than collecting on the back of the truck. I then moved to another company, which wanted me to go to Saudi Arabia for a year. Now, I always thought this was my choice, but in the background, my father and the owner of the company in the Netherlands had formulated this plan to send me there, but made me think it was completely of my own free will! When did you find out about this, and how did your career progress after that? It wasn’t until 30 years later! I’m glad that it happened though, it was the best decision that I (never) made! In 1984, my father was manufacturing hydraulic cylinders in the Netherlands and he had some customers in Saudi. Since I was already working for a Dutch-Saudi joint venture, I thought it would be wise to help my father too. That’s really when I started to see the potential in Saudi Arabia. I then started selling hydraulic cylinders for dump trucks, and by 1989, Dutch-made cylinders were the preferred choice for construction companies in the Middle East and I was starting to promote Dutch products and helping people who wanted access to the market. It was around this time that I realised it was just nice to connect people, which would eventually put me in good stead many years later to become Honorary Consul of the Netherlands in Bahrain. As for MH Hydraulics Group BV, which is the umbrella company encompassing a number of brands, it continues to perform very strongly both regionally and internationally, with a presence in Germany, Italy, the UAE and Singapore. We’re extremely busy in the Netherlands too at the moment, with approximately 320 employees there. Thankfully I have a great management team which I can communicate with remotely from Bahrain, most of the time. Of course, I also want to ensure we continue to have a strong foundation in the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia in particular where we are starting to have a strong presence. Can you explain a little about the Honorary Consul title and how it differs from an ambassadorship? Essentially, there are two elements to an Honorary Consul’s work: assisting Dutch nationals abroad and representing Dutch trade interests. Since there is no Dutch embassy specifically for Bahrain (it is covered by the embassy in Kuwait), it’s a unique situation. The position is not political like an ambassadorship and is voluntary, but it is still by appointment from the King and consuls do have some diplomatic status. Some of the tasks I assisted with included passport renewal, repatriation, registering babies and basically helping Dutch citizens with their troubles. How proud were you to receive your Knighthood and how were you nominated for this honour? I believe it was for my 40 years promoting Dutch and Middle East connections rather than my consular work, which I see as simply my duty. It was very emotional and one of the proudest days of my life. I didn’t do all of my work for recognition, but it’s nice to receive it and to be told that I’d gone above and beyond for my country. Your family managed to surprise you at the ceremony; can you tell us about this? Indeed! They were incredibly sneaky. In fact, the whole ceremony was kept under wraps and I was led to believe it was simply a meeting with the Dutch Ambassador and the Bahrain Netherlands Business Network. When I turned up at the hotel where the ceremony was being held, I saw a few of my friends and thought it was a little odd, but thought nothing more of it. However, when I entered the room and saw my wife Wendy and my four children Celine, 25, Charlotte, 23, Jacob and Willemijn, both 21, I knew that it was something special! They all managed to keep the secret too. My children had only been in Bahrain a few weeks prior, yet they called me from the Netherlands asking if they could come back for one of their friends’ graduation. I did wonder why they couldn’t have celebrated it when they were here, but they were adamant. It’s nice to have the kids around, especially now that they’re older, so I’m glad I agreed to fly them out! How did you meet your wife and what was your experience as expat parents raising children in the Middle East? When I was 35, I started to get complaints from my friends that I was the only one not married, and then my father said I might start losing customers if I didn’t! I argued that Saudi Arabia is not the easiest place to find a wife, so what an incredible surprise that I found mine there! I was put in touch with Wendy, who was working with Gulf Air at the time, and we hit it off instantly. Three months later, on her birthday, I asked her to marry me. I thought it was a cheap birthday present as simply asking her was enough, but it turned out to be the most expensive present ever because she said yes and never regretted it. As for our children, I think it’s a blessing that they were raised in a multicultural society and attended St Christopher’s School where they made friends with people from across the world, whereas if they were outside of that expat bubble and in a Dutch school, for example, they’d mainly just associate with Dutch people. They’re all back in the Netherlands studying, with three of them studying for their Master’s degrees and one wrapping up her Bachelor degree. I was adamant that they should complete at least part of their education in the Netherlands to remember their roots. Last thoughts? I want to reiterate how honoured and grateful I am to receive the Knighthood, and also to be able to work and live in Bahrain and the Middle East. My father was in hydraulics, now I am also in hydraulics and I want to leave a legacy behind in this region. Whether my kids follow me into the business or not is up to them, but whatever they do I’ll be proud of them as long as they’re happy. Loading a container in 1984 Jaap taking a time out in his early days in Saudi Arabia
Obesity is one of the main health issues plaguing society today, with the World Health Organisation’s latest figures showing that there are more than a billion people worldwide afflicted with it. This month, we spoke to Dr. Amer Alderazi, President of the Bahrain Medical Society and Consultant General & Bariatric Surgery at Middle East Hospital, to find out more about his career and his expert advice on how to tackle obesity. BATTLING THE BULGE Dr. Alderazi has a distinguished career in medicine. After graduating high school from Ahmed Al Omran School, he was awarded a scholarship from the Ministry of Education to study medicine at Alexandria University, Egypt. After his six-year studies, he joined Salmaniya Medical Complex and completed its five-year general surgery residency programme. He then undertook subspeciality training in advanced minimal invasive and bariatric surgery at McMaster University in Canada. He eventually returned to the Kingdom and was a member of the team which achieved the first weight loss surgery in Bahrain and also pioneered a number of laparoscopic surgeries. To this effect, Dr. Alderazi’s influence on medicine on the island is immeasurable. Administratively, at Salmaniya he managed the training programme for the Department of Surgery and was the chairman of both the Operating Theatre Committee and the A&E department. He held positions in the National NonCommunicable Disease Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee at the Ministry of Health. interview www.bahrainthismonth.com 22 April 2023
interview 23 April 2023 His work within the community can also not be understated. During his career, he has helped to guide and teach hundreds of colleagues throughout their time in medical school. Furthermore, he is the current president of the Bahrain Medical Society, the general secretary of the Gulf Obesity Surgery Society and formerly held positions of vice president of the Bahrain Cancer Society and as ex-president of the Bahrain Surgeons Association. Now, after 25 years of service at Salmaniya Medical Complex, Dr. Alderazi joined the Middle East Hospital to help establish a centre of excellence for bariatric surgery due to the high demand for it in the region. He says: “Obesity is the new epidemic worldwide, particularly considering the percentage of childhood obesity which predicts a dire situation to come in the next 20 years. Bahrain is usually ranked in the top 20 countries with the highest obesity rate per capita in its population, with a 2018 World Health Organisation survey estimating that almost 74 percent of the population is either overweight or obese. “There’s no one individual factor for such a high rate, since obesity itself is a very complex and multifactorial disease. However, people in the GCC tend to eat more and have a higher consumption of carbohydrates such as rice or bread. Moreover, they do not partake in regular physical activities and tend to sleep late.” Some of the consequences of obesity include a reduction of up to 10 years in average life expectancy, with fatal risks including 14 types of cancers, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides, heart diseases, strokes, sleep apnea and breathing problems, back and knee pain in addition to mental problems and low self-esteem. Ultimately, obesity has been associated with more than 200 health conditions and reducing weight improves the majority of them. Luckily, thanks to Dr. Alderazi’s expertise, Middle East Hospital can offer a number of options to help those who want to combat obesity. “We have a comprehensive and multidisciplinary team that addresses every aspect of weight management from the diet and exercise element through to the nonsurgical options and ending with the choice of surgical procedures if needed,” he explains. “The first step to achieving a sustainable weight loss is always a dietary plan and exercise regimen, which can be offered through our clinical dietician and requires frequent follow-ups. For those who have difficulty losing weight through this route, we may recommend augmenting their efforts with medications. “Currently, there are two weight-loss injections which are approved for use in the Kingdom. The first is the daily injection of Saxenda and the second is the weekly injection of Ozempic or Weagovy. These medications work by suppressing appetite and reducing the amount a person can eat in each meal. Additionally, they increase the basal metabolic rate marginally which is the amount of calories your body burns each day. Weight is lost through these mechanisms and we generally advise patients to use these medications for periods that range between four-to-six months. The expected weight loss with these medications is around 12 to 15 percent of a patient’s total weight. “Another nonsurgical treatment is the intragastric balloon, which is a balloon that we insert inside one’s stomach by either gastroscopy or by swallowing and we later inflate with varying amounts of fluid. They stay in the stomach for any time from three months to a year and occupy a large space inside the stomach, meaning the patient can only manage to eat very small meals. The daily caloric intake is therefore reduced drastically and the expected weight loss with these balloons is around 12-25 kilograms. “Surgical options are variable and include laparoscopic gastric banding, laparoscopic gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Gastric banding was a very common procedure in the early 2000s and probably the one most people have heard of. However, because of the large amount of weight regain many surgeons abandoned this procedure and currently it is infrequently used to treat obesity.” Instead, it is the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy which is now the most common surgery worldwide and involves keyhole surgery of three-to-five cuts in the abdomen, whereby approximately 75 percent of the stomach is removed. Also removed is a specific part of the stomach, the fundus, which is in charge of secreting a specific hormone called ghrelin, which is responsible for inciting the feeling of being hungry and craving food. Therefore, the level of ghrelin is reduced in the body and cravings are suppressed. Despite the storied successes of various obesity treatments, Dr. Alderazi stresses, there is no magic button to solve all of a patient’s problems. “One of the most common misconceptions is that surgery means an instant and permanent change. However, it is merely the catalyst for a push in the right direction towards a healthier lifestyle, including regular exercise and a more controlled diet while drinking plenty of water,” he says. However, with the expertise provided by Dr. Alderazi and the Middle East Hospital, coupled with the obvious visual change after treatment, almost all patients show a marked improvement in self-esteem, confidence and also commitment to their medical instructions. www.bahrainthismonth.com
interview Art lovers and photography connoisseurs are in for a treat this month. Nistar PS, a photographer from India, will be showcasing his mesmerising wildlife photography at an exhibition at the British Club, Adliya. He tells Farrah Saville about his journey as a photographer. Nistar PS has amassed a following of over 247,000 on the social media platform Instagram thanks to his spell-binding imagery, some of which will be exhibited at the exhibition on April 26. “I will showcase wildlife photography from parts of Africa, India, Papua New Guinea and more. The pictures have been aesthetically-designed to be ideal showpieces in people’s homes,” he explains. Nistar first got into photography in the late 80s when he was a college student. “I would photograph landscapes and people with a film camera, which is when I realised I had it in me to pursue this hobby,” he reminisces. “I started wildlife photography in the early 2000s and in 2005 my hobby took a big leap as I bought my first DSLR and lens. I started with bird photography by clicking pictures in the backyard of my hometown in Kerala and by 2010 I had transgressed from just birds to including a variety of mammals,” he adds. Soon enough, Nistar was travelling across oceans to photograph specific animals around the world. His hobby had grown to be an escape from the stress of corporate life. “I lived in Dubai at the time and so it became my play area. I would explore the flora and fauna in the desert in my customised Jeep till I knew the vast expanse like the back of my hand,” he says. “In doing so I specialised in capturing desert creatures and various species of owls. I even overcame my crippling fear of snakes as I developed an interest in herping,” he adds. Over the years, the fauna-rich Masai Mara in Kenya has grown to be a favourite location for Nistar. “I have visited nearly 10 times by now as its wildlife scene is extensive beyond compare to any other place I have visited. In addition, the versatility of Indian forests makes them another favourite, especially when it comes to capturing tigers,” he says with enthusiasm. The pursuit of the perfect shot has got him in a predicament on occasion with the first instance taking place in Dubai. “I was driving by myself through the dunes, following an owl, when I found myself hanging over a massive dune and nearly had my car flip over. It was extremely hot and I was on my own so the situation was spine-chilling. I had to eventually call my friends to rescue my Jeep from toppling over,” he narrates. To conclude, he shares an incident which took place in Papua New Guinea while he was exploring the forest with friends and an indigenous guide. “We were trekking uphill in search of the birds of paradise when the tribal people stopped us and threatened to attack us with their axe. At that point, we had only heard of such stories and were terrified,” he says. “Fortunately, our guide communicated with them and it only took a sum of money being paid to turn them from foe to friend as they proceeded to help us find the birds of paradise.” www.bahrainthismonth.com 24 April 2023 Follow @nistarps on Instagram.
www.bahrainthismonth.com 25 April 2023 production and more are also handled by our team,” she explains. The company is currently planning weddings in Mexico and Thailand which are sure to be unique experiences. “I believe that every event planning company has its own unique approach which I fully respect and admire. I think our passion and drive is something that sets each one of us apart. Our love and dedication to this business is incomparable,” she says. A person’s wedding is seen as one of the most significant events in their life. It is a celebration of love that marks people’s commitment to one another. The Bahrain-based business Ever After Events W.L.L. has specialised in planning destination weddings, creating truly special moments for all to remember. It is said that falling in love is the “easy part”, planning the wedding on the other hand can be far more tasking. The wedding planning and decorating company, Ever After Events W.L.L., is a breath of fresh air for couples as it specialises in destination weddings and making its clients’ life as easy as possible. Founded in October 2019, Ever After has grown to be a quintessential element of weddings, bespoke events and destination corporate events. The company offers a full-fledged package from planning, decorating, hospitality, technical production and managing. “Ever After officially started in October 2019 and, in a span of four months, bagged four destination weddings as a decoration and technical provider. All the events I have planned alongside my partner planners have been very memorable,” says Managing Director of Ever After Events W.L.L., Angelli ‘Dandy’ Salvino-Rodricks. “We do the overall process of management, from helping the client pick the right location to RSVPs, from hospitality to liaising with suppliers, and from entertainment booking to designing. Technical Creating Fairytale Weddings editorial
26 April 2023 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander CSB Annual Beach Clean-Up Canadian School Bahrain (CSB) students promoted the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by conducting its annual beach clean-up. Over three days, students from nursery to Grade 8 worked together to clean up Karbabad beach, Amwaj beach, and Dry Dock beach Hidd. The initiative aimed to put into practice what the students learned in the classroom about taking care of the environment, in line with the school’s mission towards the UN SDGs. By seeing first-hand the effects that littering has on our environment and animals, the students were able to understand the importance of recycling and the difference between biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, which aligns with the SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. “We believe that taking care of our community and making the right choices to not litter or pollute the planet is a personal and social responsibility. Our students are pioneers of change for a better future, and we are proud to see them taking the lead on this important issue,”said Mariam Al Kooheji, Head of CSB Executive Committee. The initiative received a great response from the community, with many appreciating the students’ efforts to make a positive impact on the environment. CSB plans to continue conducting such initiatives to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote a sustainable future for Bahrain, in alignment with the UN SDGs.
Education is undoubtedly a cornerstone and development indicator; not only for individuals but also for nations. The Kingdom of Bahrain has always considered education to be of the highest importance and has the oldest public education system in the Arabian Peninsula. In fact, the first public school of Bahrain, Al-Hidaya Al-Khalifia Boys School, was established in Muharraq in 1919. A second public school for boys opened up in the capital city of Manama In 1926 followed by the first public school for girls two years later. Nearly 100 years later, the Kingdom of Bahrain has a vibrant offering of public and private schools and universities, and several curricula to mould the minds of the youth and lead them on a prosperous path. This month, we are proud to present our education feature which highlights 11 of Bahrain’s finest private education institutions from kindergarten through to universities. Here is an insight into the ethos, function and objectives behind some of these leading establishments, their range of facilities and, most importantly, the curricula and programmes available to students. Al-Hidaya Al-Khalifia Boys School education feature www.bahrainthismonth.com 27 April 2023 Final exams at a girls school in Bahrain, July 1975. Final exams at middle and high schools in Bahrain, July 1975.
www.bahrainthismonth.com 28 April 2023 The Canadian School Bahrain (CSB) provides a strong foundation in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Arts Education and Physical Education. In keeping with an ever-evolving world, Career Education, Applied Skills Design and Technology and Health are also included as mandatory subjects in the school’s curriculum. Further, the Arabic language studies, Islamic studies, Bahraini Social Studies, and Citizenship classes ensure that students have a well-rounded education that meets their academic needs and prepares them for their future endeavours. CSB believes that communication is the key to success. Hence, the school has integrated an inquiry-based methodology, which helps students develop their competencies while simultaneously making connections to content. Students use their English and Arabic language skills in various subjects while teachers work diligently to ensure that students have the skills they need to communicate effectively, in both verbal and written English and Arabic languages. In 2022-2023, CSB opened its new building with state-of-the-art facilities that provide its students with the best learning environment possible. The new building houses 45 classrooms, three science labs, a second library, a multipurpose hall, and a prayer room. The school also has a new outdoor arena that includes two Padel courts, and a second football field. CSB has expressed its commitment to continue to providing the best possible facilities for its students. Much to the delight of students and parents alike, CSB provides a holistic education, and its after-school programmes play an integral part in its curriculum. The school offers a range of interesting clubs and activities including STEM, Arts and Crafts, French, Cooking, Animal Rescue, Padel, Basketball, and Football. These clubs nurture students' curiosity, critical and creative thinking, enable them to collaborate, and foster their understanding of personal and social responsibility. The goal is to ensure that graduates leave the school with strong moral values, confidence in themselves and in their culture, and respecting others, themselves, and their environment. The BC Core Competencies are at the heart of all that is done at CSB. As educators, the school focuses on nurturing students' curiosity, critical thinking, communication, creativity, and collaboration. Its students are encouraged to question, discuss and take ownership of their learning as the school intends for them to become pioneers of change, who will create a better future for themselves and the world around them. Canadian School Bahrain is committed to providing an excellent education to its students, preparing them to be successful in their future endeavours. The school’s teachers, administrators, and staff work hard to create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. If you are looking for a school that values holistic education and promotes critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, then Canadian School Bahrain is the right choice for you. CANADIAN SCHOOL BAHRAIN A PLACE FOR HOLISTIC EDUCATION The Canadian School Bahrain (CSB) is a BC certified offshore school that provides a blended curriculum to meet the subject requirements of the Bahrain Ministry of Education. education feature Here’s why this school is an excellent choice for students.
education feature www.bahrainthismonth.com 29 April 2023 The Canadian School Bahrain (CSB), which opened its doors in 2019, has carved a unique space in the Kingdom’s highly-competitive education sector with its focus on fostering a lifelong love of learning through its British Columbia Canada curriculum. Bahrain This Month visited CSB’s state-of-the-art campus in Diyar Al Muharraq and spoke with Principal, Abby Saadeh, about the school’s goals and approach to education. FOSTERING A LOVE OF LEARNING AT CSB The Canadian School Bahrain offers a British Columbia Canada curriculum. This programme offers a balanced, inquiry-based approach, based on the Core Competencies which are Communication, Collaboration, Critical and Creative Thinking, and Personal and Social Responsibility. “Whilst the world is advancing at a rapid rate, education is doing so at a much slower pace than other industries,” argues Ms. Saadeh. “Any child can use the Internet to find the information they need, and while content and knowledge are important, it’s not the sole focus. Our objective is to improve competency so that our students graduate with skills, can problem solve, and think critically in any career they choose to pursue. “It is also cross-curricular, which means we’re not just teaching by subject, because the world doesn’t work in subjects and we’re trying to move away from a categorised education. We’ve adapted so that any topic can be taught at any time.” One of the school’s main founding goals was to ensure that it catered to the Bahraini community in the area whilst offering high-level education. Approximately 70 percent of CSB’s students are Bahraini, with the rest being from neighbouring Middle Eastern countries mixed with some from North America, Europe and the Far East. For this reason, it has a blended and integrated approach with both Arabic and English programmes. The school offers Arabic Language Studies, Islamic Studies, and Bahraini Citizenship and Social Studies to complement hands-on holistic learning. This is the first academic year since CSB opened in 2019 that hasn’t been affected in some way by COVID-19, and Ms. Saadeh believes that the school is now flourishing at its intended capacity. “We did adapt to the challenges of the pandemic, but I must say it’s great to be running at full capacity and using our outstanding facilities which we couldn’t use before, such as the library, swimming pool, gymnasium, art room, music room and more. “The school currently operates from PreSchool to Grade 8, and this September we’ll be opening up Grade 9. Within the next five years, we’ll be adding year-onyear up to a full high school capacity, right through to Grade 12.” CSB’s graduation programme is currently under development and all students who graduate will receive their British Columbia Dogwood Diploma. This is the same as any pupil in Canada would receive upon finishing high school and it opens doors to any university in the world. Furthermore, assessment methods such as exams are treated differently at CSB than traditional approaches, whilst the use of technology is also managed circumstantially. Ms. Saadeh explains: “We use assessment for learning and so instead of taking the result on the paper as the important factor, we take it as a whole and see areas where students can improve. We then adapt to each student based on their assessment and build their learning from that. “Moreover, technology is only used in meaningful ways. For example, if it can enhance students’ abilities or skills then it will be used in the classroom, but if it’s simply replacing books with tablets, it isn’t a significant use.”
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