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bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 3 CONTENTS May 2 25 CONTENTS Bridging Worlds, Building Legacies 10 17 Strengthening Enduring Bonds 04 A Future of Possibility Alosra Supermarket, Bahrain’s trusted premium grocer, continues to elevate the retail experience by bringing the best of Britain to its shelves. For over six decades, St Christopher’s School has stood at the forefront of education in Bahrain, offering generations of students a world-class, Britishstyle international education rooted in academic excellence, character development and a strong sense of community. Design with Purpose 11 16 British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alastair Long, reflects on two years in post, sharing insights into diplomacy, economic progress and cultural ties. Steering the Legacy 13 Mark Herbert, the newlyelected Chairman of the British Club of Bahrain, shares his vision for the historic institution as it celebrates its 90th year. Al Arayedh Group Holding (AAGH), led by Nasser Al Arayedh, stands today as a prominent name in Bahrain’s private sector, renowned for its long-standing legacy in real estate and investment. Nicholas Bonaventure, CEO of international architecture firm nicholas, shares how his Bahrain-based practice blends design excellence with regional understanding to shape environments that work for people and the planet. A Taste of Britain 06 James Batts, Principal of Nadeen School, shares how the institution’s commitment to individuality, innovation and inclusion is creating a generation of learners ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Nurturing Future Mavericks
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 4 Strengthening Enduring Bonds In an exclusive interview with Kristian Harrison, British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alastair Long, reflects on two years in post, sharing insights into diplomacy, economic progress and cultural ties. Two years into your posting, how would you describe the current state of UK-Bahrain relations? The relationship remains in an incredibly strong place. We had a brilliant autumn of engagement, starting with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Salman Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, visiting our Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Number 10 Downing Street. That was followed by a visit to Bahrain by our Foreign Secretary, a significant moment which underlined the depth of our ties. In November, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Majesty King Charles III came together for a fabulous dinner at Windsor Castle, in celebration of His Majesty King Hamad’s Silver Jubilee. Also in celebration of this occasion, the Duke of Edinburgh visited Bahrain during the Kingdom’s National Day celebrations. We also saw the UK join the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) alongside Bahrain and the United States at the Manama Dialogue, marking a new era of trilateral cooperation. It has been an incredible sequence of high-level engagements. I like to think McLaren winning the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship was another British-Bahraini achievement, combining excellence from both countries. What personal or professional achievements over the past year are you most proud of? I am particularly proud of the UK joining the C-SIPA agreement. It is a truly visionary instrument, created largely by Bahrain, which aims to bring together those committed to the rules-based international order. The UK cares deeply about supporting peace and security in this region, so it was a privilege to be invited to join by two of our closest partners. On a personal level, I find it very rewarding to be contributing to something with such a clear and important purpose. You have delivered several speeches on Bahrain’s economy recently. How do you view its current state, and how is the UK supporting its diversification efforts? There are many parallels between the UK and Bahrain as economies. Both are increasingly service-oriented, moving beyond hydrocarbons and embracing future industries such as digital technology. Bahrain has achieved remarkable success diversifying its economy, with financial services now making up the largest share of its GDP – mirroring the UK’s own structure. I am consistently impressed by the incredible Bahraini talent driving this transformation. The wider GCC region is growing rapidly, and Bahrain is well placed to benefit, with the region’s economy expected to double by 2050. The UK shares a similar vision, with a renewed focus on investing in future industries, clean energy and technology. How are British businesses responding to opportunities in Bahrain? British businesses are increasingly recognising the opportunities here. We are seeing steady growth in investment and trade, and with the Free Trade Agreement between the UK and GCC edging ever closer to completion, that momentum should only increase. I believe the agreement will send a strong signal to businesses that the Gulf region is an open and attractive market. Beyond goods and services, we are also focusing heavily on investment partnerships – encouraging each side to take a real stake in the other’s economic future. As a strong advocate for conservation and sustainability projects, have there been any tangible successes in these areas since your arrival? Conservation remains a passion of mine and an exciting area of collaboration between the UK and Bahrain. One recent initiative involved bringing three British agritech companies to partner with Bahraini farmers. Their innovations – including flexible solar panels for greenhouses, seed productivity enhancements and smart farming technologies – have already begun to bear fruit here.
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 5 These projects are helping Bahrain’s agriculture sector become more sustainable while increasing yields. We are also working on marine conservation, including efforts to protect seagrass beds and measure carbon emissions from space. It is immensely satisfying to see high-end technology being applied to real-world environmental challenges. Air connectivity was a hot topic last year. What are your reflections on the developments around Heathrow and Gatwick flights? The past year saw some drama around the Heathrow route, but I am delighted that it was quickly resolved. British Airways continues to operate from Heathrow, and Gulf Air has expanded its services to include Gatwick and Manchester. Bahrain International Airport is world-class, and deserves to be a hub of regional and global traffic. It is not just the facilities, but the experience – I genuinely believe it is the most pleasant airport in the region. The new stained-glass installation by British artist Sir Brian Clarke at the airport also beautifully symbolises the strong ties between our countries. How many British nationals are now living in Bahrain, and how has the community evolved? The number of British nationals in Bahrain currently stands at around 5,000. That is slightly down from pre-COVID levels, but it remains a strong and vibrant community. British residents contribute enormously to Bahrain’s prosperity, culture and international profile. In addition, we are seeing a steady rise in British visitors, many experiencing Bahrain for the first time. The warmth of Bahraini hospitality often leaves a lasting impression, encouraging many to return. Have you had a chance to engage with Bahrain’s musical or cultural scene, given your musical background? It is an amusing story – before I arrived, there was a rumour that I played the oud! I do not – I am a trumpet player by training. That said, I have loved engaging with Bahrain’s musical community. I have attended concerts blending Western orchestral music with traditional Bahraini instruments, and we now regularly invite Bahraini musicians to perform at our events. If you were to host a British-Bahraini cultural evening, what elements would you include? Rather than traditional choices, I would be tempted to spotlight new forms of creativity – animation, theatre, dance – where both Bahrain and Britain excel. Innovation in culture reflects the broader innovation in our relationship, and I believe supporting emerging artistic fields is a powerful way to deepen ties. What are your priorities for the next two years? While I would love to focus solely on trade and cultural relations, regional stability remains the critical preoccupation. Conflicts such as Gaza and the Red Sea disruption underline the need for durable peace. Bahrain’s leadership in promoting dialogue and cooperation, particularly through C-SIPA and the Arab League, is commendable. My team and I are committed to supporting these efforts, while also continuing to deepen economic, educational and cultural ties between the UK and Bahrain. On a personal level, are there experiences in Bahrain you still hope to enjoy? Embarrassingly, I still have not visited the Tree of Life! There are many corners of Bahrain I am yet to explore, and I also want to spend more time in majalis beyond Ramadan. Engaging in real conversations with Bahrainis is one of the most rewarding parts of my posting, and I intend to do much more of it in my remaining time here. Finally, what message would you like to send to the British community in Bahrain? Thank you for everything you do. Every British resident and visitor is an ambassador for our relationship, contributing daily to the strength and warmth of UK-Bahrain ties. Your efforts make a real and lasting difference. Scan to watch the video
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 6 Nurturing Future Mavericks James Batts, Principal of Nadeen School, shares how the institution’s commitment to individuality, innovation and inclusion is creating a generation of learners ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Mr. Batts’ career has always been rooted in a passion for creating environments where everyone feels they belong. “I started as a Science teacher in the UK,” he explains. “I quickly moved into leadership, and took on my first Headship in Special Education in 2009, which really deepened my commitment to inclusive education.” His experience eventually led him into international education in 2014. Today, he proudly leads Nadeen School, a community that celebrates individuality, nurtures potential and empowers learners to thrive. Nadeen School’s philosophy has a strong emphasis on belonging and individuality. “The school prioritises a strong sense of belonging and celebrates individuality,” he says. “Our core values of compassion, agility and hard work are reflected every day through community engagement and purposeful actions such as learner-led projects.” Preparing Learners for the Digital Age With the world becoming increasingly digital, Nadeen School ensures learners are well prepared. “We offer subjects like Robotics, Coding and Digital Media, encouraging learners to think critically and solve real-world problems,” says Mr. Batts. Digital citizenship and ethical technology use are embedded into the curriculum, positioning learners not just as consumers, but as responsible creators in the digital world. Under Mr. Batts’ leadership, the school has celebrated several major milestones. These include launching the first Year 10 cohort, expanding subject offerings, opening the THRIVE Achievement Centre and reinforcing inclusive practices. Success, he explains, is not measured solely by exam results: “We look at academic progress, learner engagement, parent satisfaction and, most importantly, whether our learners feel a genuine sense of belonging.” Pioneering High Performance Learning One initiative Mr. Batts is particularly proud of is Nadeen becoming Bahrain’s first High Performance Learning (HPL) School. “The HPL framework promotes values, attitudes and advanced cognitive skills, developing adaptable and resilient learners,” he says. Academic achievement is carefully balanced with emotional wellbeing through counselling services, enrichment activities and a dedicated wellbeing programme, ensuring that individual learning needs are recognised and supported. Building a Collaborative Environment Staff development is another key focus for Mr. Batts. “I really believe in championing a culture of trust and shared purpose,” he says. Teachers at Nadeen benefit from ongoing professional development and opportunities to collaborate across departments, particularly in areas such as neurodiversity and innovative pedagogy. Parents are also considered vital partners in the educational process. “We engage parents through regular communication, workshops and shared events like the TeachMeet,” says Mr. Batts. “They play a crucial role in shaping the wider learning environment.” Looking ahead, he remains ambitious for Nadeen’s future. Goals include achieving HPL World Class accreditation, expanding secondary options, developing a new library and Study Hub, creating innovative learning spaces, launching a survival award and hosting community events like the BSME Netball tournament. For prospective learners and parents, Mr. Batts advises: “Look for a place where your individuality is celebrated and your potential is nurtured. At Nadeen, you will find a compassionate, forward-thinking community that supports learners academically and socially. It is a place where you will feel valued, empowered and prepared for success.” - James Batts Scan to watch the video
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 8 UK IN BAHRAIN 1. The Countryside Calling: Beyond the Cities While the bustle of London will never lose its magic, the soul of the UK oftentimes finds itself in the quieter corners. A couple of hours by train from the capital, the Cotswolds offer a postcard-perfect escape into honey-stone villages, rolling hills and postcard villages like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water. Think of it as Britain’s take on slow living – with retro bookshops, cosy gastropubs and Saturday morning farmer’s markets that transport you to a Jane Austen novel. For nature lovers, Cumbria’s Lake District is a haven of peaceful lakes, mountain peaks and walking trails that inspired Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth. Take a boat trip on Lake Windermere, hike in Grasmere or simply unwind with a fireside retreat in a stone cottage. It’s an intensely refreshing experience – a much-needed break from Bahrain’s desert surroundings. 2. Literary Trails and Royal Tales The UK Rediscovered: A Curated Escape for Bahrain-Based Travellers The United Kingdom has long been more than a travel destination for people in Bahrain considering it a place for education, business ties, cherished memories or even centuries-old diplomatic relations. World-famous landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower of London are popular among tourist spots for their rich history, whilst traditions such as afternoon tea endure for eternity. However, there are plenty of lesser-known spots that will appeal to both first-time and regular tourists alike. Shrishtii Shah takes an in-depth look into what the UK offers.
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 9 UK IN BAHRAIN 3. A Taste of the New Britain Modern Britain is multicultural, dynamic and bursting with culinary creativity. Skip the cliché of fish and chips and opt for a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant in Birmingham, Opheem, or a sustainably sourced seafood supper in Cornwall. For the adventurous palate, Borough Market in London is a celebration of world flavours – from Middle Eastern mezze to Caribbean jerk chicken. If you’re travelling with family or seeking something offbeat, the Scottish Highlands offer immersive food experiences like foraging tours along the coast. 4. Britain for the Mindful Traveller Post-pandemic travel has brought a renewed focus on mindfulness, and the UK is quietly leading the way in this space. From forestbathing experiences in the Yorkshire Dales to eco-conscious retreats in Devon, there’s a growing movement towards nature-led, soulenriching holidays. Even in London, you’ll find calm amid the chaos – rooftop yoga sessions, Japanese gardens tucked into busy boroughs, and wellness stays at heritage hotels that blend tradition with tranquillity. 5. The Purr-fect British Getaway for Cat Enthusiasts Britain is also a surprisingly delightful destination for animal lovers, especially those with a soft spot for cats. Start your journey at Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in East London, a whimsical café inspired by Victorian tearooms and Alice in Wonderland, where rescued cats lounge on bookshelves as you enjoy high tea. In York, The Cat Gallery is a treasure trove of feline-themed gifts and supports local cat charities. To top it off, unwind in the British countryside at a petfriendly cottage through sites like PetsPyjamas or Canine Cottages, where resident cats and peaceful surroundings make for a truly purr-fect getaway. 6. Curtains Up: A Theatre Lover’s Guide For those who live and breathe theatre, the UK is a treasure trove of dramatic delights. Begin your journey in London’s West End, the beating heart of British theatre, where iconic venues like the Palace Theatre and the Royal Opera House stage everything from timeless musicals to groundbreaking new plays. Just a short walk away, Shakespeare’s Globe offers an unforgettable experience, transporting visitors back to the days of the Bard with open-air performances in a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse. No theatre pilgrimage is complete without a visit to Stratford-uponAvon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare and home to the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. Further north, Edinburgh dazzles with its dynamic arts scene, especially in August during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe –an unmissable celebration of theatre, comedy and creativity on every corner. Whether you’re into classic drama or cutting-edge performance, the UK stage is always set for something spectacular. For Bahrainis who’ve studied or lived in the UK, there’s a fondness for its literary and royal heritage. So why not walk in the footsteps of the greats? Oxford and Cambridge – the two university giants – offer not just world-class architecture and libraries but also walking tours of their ancient colleges, where the likes of Stephen Hawking, C.S. Lewis and Sir David Attenborough once walked. In the south, the city of Bath – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is a town that Regency history and Jane Austen fans absolutely must see. With Roman baths, Georgian crescents and an annual Jane Austen Festival, it’s a charming combination of spa, history and elegance. And for the royal enthusiast, a visit to Windsor Castle or a stroll through Kensington Palace gardens is a connection to a ruling monarchy that has been revered by many in Bahrain for generations.
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 INTERVIEW 10 Bridging Worlds, Building Legacies “At its core, AAGH is a real estate and investment company,” says Mr. Al Arayedh. “Everything we do branches from smart, strategic investments.” This approach has allowed the group to expand into high-growth sectors such as technology while maintaining strong foundations. With offices in Geneva, London, and Singapore, the group’s global presence supports its international investment strategy. “We have trusted representatives in each city scouting for aligned opportunities,” Mr. Al Arayedh explains. He also highlights the value of longterm advisory relationships with British bankers and legal experts, which shape the group’s UK ventures. Mr. Al Arayedh is supported by a dedicated leadership team, including his sisters Ms. Maryam Al Arayedh, 1st Deputy Chairman, and Ms. Jehan Al Arayedh, 2nd Deputy Chairman. Together, they represent a new generation of family-led corporate leadership in Bahrain. “Each portfolio is managed by professionals and enhanced by expert partnerships,” he adds. AAGH also remains deeply invested in Bahrain’s future. Upcoming projects include an openair mall with drive-through restaurants and a state-of-the-art sports facility. “Both are in the planning stage, with hopes to launch this year,” he confirms. Al Arayedh Group Holding (AAGH) is a leading name in Bahrain’s private sector, known for its enduring legacy in real estate and investment. The group was founded by the Honourable Mansoor Al Arayedh, who passed the reins to his son the Honourable Mohammed Jameel Mansoor Al Arayedh. Today, the company is led by Mr. Nasser Al Arayedh, whose forward-thinking vision is guiding its continued growth locally and internationally. Bahrain’s strategic location and open business environment make it attractive to foreign investors. “Our systems are streamlined, and access to decision-makers is direct. That makes a real difference,” says Mr. Al Arayedh. He also extended his appreciation to both nations’ leadership. “We are grateful to His Majesty King Charles III, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa , and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa for their visionary leadership, which has created fertile ground for growth.” Rooted in legacy and driven by innovation, Al Arayedh Group Holding continues to shape Bahrain’s evolving business landscape on a global scale. Ms. Maryam Alarayedh Mr. Nasser Al Arayedh Ms. Jehan Alarayedh Upcoming Projects of Al Arayedh Group Holding
UK IN BAHRAIN Nicholas Bonaventure, CEO of international architecture firm nicholas, shares how his Bahrain-based practice blends design excellence with regional understanding to shape environments that bring maximum success. After three decades in the field, Mr. Bonaventure believes that architecture is a continual process of shaping environments that reflect who we are as a society and where we aspire to be. With numerous senior regional roles under his belt and a decade running his own practice, he founded nicholas in Bahrain, where the firm has become a regional hub for innovative, peoplefocused design. “I’ve always seen architecture as a way of making things better – for people and for the planet,” says Mr. Bonaventure. His design philosophy is deeply rooted in social and environmental responsibility, which is why regenerative design, not just sustainability, is a core tenet of nicholas. “Regenerative design moves beyond zero waste or zero energy. It’s about creating positive outcomes – making the natural, social, economic and built environments better through our work.” Having first arrived in Bahrain in 2005 as Head of Architecture and Design Director for Atkins to lead major developments such as Durrat Al Bahrain and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, Mr. Bonaventure returned to open nicholas’ Bahrain office in 2023. “Bahrain is a fantastic place to live and work, with incredible people,” he says. “There’s no need to look outside the country for world-class design solutions. The answer is here.” Despite its local roots, nicholas operates with a global mindset. “We don’t follow trends – we aim to be ahead of them,” he explains. “We are the ones setting the standards.” The practice advocates for progressive urban planning strategies such as the 15-minute city, where essential services and opportunities are accessible within a short walk. “We’re designing precincts where life naturally happens,” says Mr. Bonaventure, “with realistic walkability key to our approach.” Adaptability is another hallmark of nicholas, which works across education, healthcare, hospitality and residential sectors. Mr. Bonaventure stresses the importance of understanding sector-specific needs: “We apply universal principles but tailor our solutions by understanding our clients’ business cases and the specific levers that drive each project.” In a region where climate plays a critical role in design, nicholas takes cues from tradition while applying modern strategies. “We know it’s possible to lower the outdoor temperature by up to seven degrees through shade, landscaping and evaporative cooling. Traditional forms like courtyards and colonnades already do this – so we learn from them, then improve on them using technology.” The firm is also forward-thinking when it comes to tools. “We work entirely in 3D using intelligent BIM,” says Mr. Bonaventure. “But we don’t use AI to design – architecture must reflect human spirit, and AI cannot replicate nuance or individuality.” Looking to the future, Mr. Bonaventure envisions Bahrain as a regional design leader. “We want to help position Bahrain as a centre for design excellence and expand our presence in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf,” he says. “Our goal is to deliver moment-defining projects that act as catalysts for positive change.” www.nicholas.design @nicholas_architecture @nicholasdesign - Nicholas Bonaventure Design with Purpose bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 11
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 12 Monarchs & Motorcars Kristian Harrison explores the British monarchy’s historic love affair with cars and the treasures hidden within the royal garages. It’s no secret that the British Royal Family owns a remarkable fleet of vehicles, many of which are housed at the Royal Mews in Buckingham Palace. Among the Bentleys and Rolls-Royces lies a treasure trove of stories – including King Charles III’s Aston Martin that runs on cheese. State Symbols on Wheels Royal vehicles are categorised into several classes. State Cars, including two Bentleys and three Rolls-Royces, are used for formal occasions and public engagements. These striking vehicles are painted in Royal Claret and Masons Black and are exempt from number plates, a distinction shared only with the State Hearse. Royal Review Vehicles, like the two specially modified Range Rovers, are used during parades and ceremonies. Semi-State Cars, including Jaguar XJ Limousines and Range Rovers, are used for less formal events and general transport. Additional support vehicles serve everything from security to logistics. Motoring Through History The monarchy’s motoring story began with King Edward VII, who in 1900 acquired a 6bhp Daimler Mail Phaeton. He later awarded Daimler a Royal Warrant and converted the Royal Mews from stables into a garage. By 1904, he became the first monarch to use a motor car for an official engagement. This passion for cars has carried through generations. Queen Elizabeth II, though best known for her love of horses, was a confident driver and trained wartime mechanic. She frequently drove Land Rovers at Balmoral and personally chauffeured dignitaries. Shortly after her accession in 1952, RollsRoyce became the preferred brand for royal engagements. One of her personal favourites was a 1961 Vauxhall Cresta Estate, modified with fishing rod holders, a dog guard, and a gun rack – all finished in custom Imperial Green. It remains at Sandringham today. Charles: The Green King King Charles III has taken royal motoring in an eco-friendly direction. Known for his environmental advocacy, he has retrofitted many royal cars to run on sustainable fuels. His private collection is said to exceed 100 vehicles, though most remain under wraps. One confirmed gem is his 1970 Aston Martin DB6 MkII Volante, gifted to him by Queen Elizabeth II for his 21st birthday. In 2008, engineers adapted it to run on E85 bioethanol, made from surplus white grape and whey extracted from cheese. Charles once quipped that it: “smells delicious as you’re driving along.” To master the car’s 148mph speed, he hired F1 legend Graham Hill for lessons and added a fake red ‘eject’ button to amuse guests – a nod to James Bond. Another prized vehicle is his 1989 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante, a gift from Bahrain’s late Emir, Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Finished in Balmoral Green with a manual gearbox, it mirrors the Bond car in The Living Daylights. These days, Charles is more often seen in an all-electric Jaguar I-Pace, promoting sustainable motoring into the monarchy’s next era.
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 13 Steering the Legacy The British Club of Bahrain stands as a cornerstone of the island’s expatriate and local social fabric, and as it marks its 90th anniversary, it finds itself under fresh leadership. Mr. Herbert, who stepped into the role of Chairman late last year, is tasked with honouring the club’s legacy while ushering in meaningful progress. “The club being here for 90 years is a massive milestone,” says Mr. Herbert. “But more importantly, how do we make sure it’s here for another 90? That’s the real challenge.” Since taking up the post, Mr. Herbert has focused on balancing tradition with innovation. Under his guidance, there have been upgrades to the Terrace area, furniture revamps throughout the club, and ongoing renovations to the Belgrave outlet. The club is also enhancing its children’s play area in time for summer. “We want to modernise without losing the values and atmosphere that have made the club what it is,” he explains. As Chairman, Mr. Herbert sees his role, and that of the Executive Committee, as strategic: “We’re not here to run day-to-day operations. That’s for our excellent management team led by Daniel McRae. Our role is to look ahead and make sure the club is moving in the right direction.” Despite challenges faced during the pandemic, the club is now seeing steady membership growth, currently standing at over 1,600 members. While still predominantly British, membership is open to all who embrace the club’s spirit. “It’s not just about nationality. We’re about values and vibe – being welcomed with a smile, being part of a community. I’d be confident that any new person walking into the club would be engaged in a conversation with a member during their visit. That’s what makes us unique,” says Mr. Herbert. Family friendliness is another key focus. “We’re gearing the club more towards families,” he notes. “Safe spaces for kids, facilities for adults and an environment where everyone can enjoy their time together.” To encourage more member feedback, Mr. Herbert introduced a dedicated email channel for suggestions and concerns. This is part of a wider commitment to making fact-based decisions and being as transparent as possible with the membership. Looking ahead, Mr. Herbert is enthusiastic but realistic: “It’s not an easy job. It takes a lot of energy, but seeing real change and hearing members say they like what’s been done makes it worth it. I know I can’t please everyone, but our decisions must be for the good of the club as a whole.” As the British Club continues its journey, Mr. Herbert hopes to simply play his part in its long and storied history: “It’ll likely take a new form in years to come, but I hope it stays central to the community for another 90 years – a place people feel proud to be a part of. I hope we can be a part of that history and add value to it as well.” Mark Herbert, the newly-elected Chairman of the British Club of Bahrain, shares his vision for the historic institution as it celebrates its 90th year. British Club Chairman Mark Herbert with Bahrain This Month Editor Kristian Harrison and staff member Mira
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 14 CELEBRATING TRANSFORMATIONAL BEAUTY & AN ENDLESS EVOLUTION Graff celebrates 50 years of its iconic Butterfly motif with a dazzling new high jewellery collection, now available in Bahrain through the exclusive Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC). 50 Years Of Graff Butterfly
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 15 A Legacy in Flight: 50 Years of Graff’s Butterfly This year, Graff marks the 50th anniversary of one of its most celebrated icons: the Butterfly. Synonymous with elegance, transformation and timeless beauty, the Butterfly motif has become an enduring symbol of the House of Graff’s philosophy – one of perpetual evolution and exquisite craftsmanship. In honour of this golden milestone, Graff has launched a breath-taking new high jewellery collection, celebrating five decades of creativity and precision. In Bahrain, these exceptional pieces are exclusively available through Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC), the region’s trusted destination for world-class luxury. Since its debut in 1975, the Graff Butterfly has evolved from minimal diamond pendants to intricate brooches and spectacular timepieces. Each iteration captures the ephemeral elegance of the butterfly mid-flight, frozen forever in the finest diamonds. As Francois Graff, CEO of Graff, explains: “In many ways, the evolution of the Graff Butterfly embodies the ethos of Graff. We transform, reimagine and redefine what is possible across every aspect of the jewellerymaking process in a relentless pursuit of perfection.” A New Era of High Jewellery To mark the 50th anniversary, Graff unveiled a striking new campaign and high jewellery collection on March 20 – a date chosen to coincide with the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere. Shot by renowned photographer Felix Cooper in London, the campaign presents a bold, contemporary interpretation of the butterfly, merging tradition with innovation. The highlight of the new collection is a mesmerising necklace handcrafted at Graff’s Mayfair atelier. At its centre lies a 5.04 carat emerald-cut diamond, from which a vibrant burst of pear-shaped and marquise diamond butterflies seem to flutter outward. These delicate forms trace the curvature of a 57.13 carat arc of snow-set pavé emeralds, creating a lush green canopy that echoes the rebirth of spring. Another equally captivating piece features a 5.02 carat emerald-cut diamond framed by a graceful cascade of butterflies along an arc of pavé-set stones. The positioning of each wing has been precisely engineered by Graff’s master artisans to maximise light reflection, resulting in an ethereal shimmer with every movement. Set in nearly invisible white gold, these pieces appear to float on the skin – a technical triumph matched only by their visual impact. Design in Motion Ms. Anne-Eva Geffroy, Design Director at Graff, believes the motif still sparks wonder: “Jewellery creations inspired by the Graff Butterfly harness the exquisite beauty of one of nature’s most captivating creatures. Every jewellery piece is designed and crafted to inspire the wearer – an ever-present reminder of their opportunity for transformation and ability to fly.” The symbolic weight of the butterfly continues to resonate across cultures. Often associated with change, rebirth and good fortune, it remains a powerful emblem of personal evolution. This collection draws on that significance, merging meaningful design with unmatched technical prowess. Among the standout designs is a suite featuring snow-set pavé wings and oval centre stones. The butterflies, positioned at varied angles, give the illusion of gliding along the neckline. A pear-shaped diamond drop adds movement and elegance. Matching earrings and a bracelet mirror these design codes, each butterfly appearing to hover weightlessly above the skin. Another complete set — necklace, earrings and bracelet — dazzles with over 80 carats of emerald cut and pavé diamonds. Each element is composed to evoke balance, harmony and a visual rhythm that mirrors the delicate beat of a butterfly’s wings. A Bahrain Showcase For discerning clients in Bahrain, this milestone collection can be explored at Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC). As the country’s authorised retailer for Graff, BJC has long been known for bringing exceptional craftsmanship and exclusive luxury brands to the Kingdom. With their deep understanding of the region’s appreciation for fine jewellery, BJC is the ideal partner to present Graff’s Butterfly in its most opulent and inspiring form. Whether for collectors, connoisseurs or those marking a personal transformation of their own, this 50th anniversary collection offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of design history – a wearable work of art that fuses past, present and future. As the butterfly continues its flight through Graff’s storied legacy, this latest evolution reaffirms its place not only as a design hallmark, but as a symbol of what lies just beyond metamorphosis.
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 16 UK IN BAHRAIN bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 A Taste of Britain Alosra Supermarket, Bahrain’s trusted premium grocer, continues to elevate the retail experience by bringing the best of Britain to its shelves. Building on the momentum of last November’s successful British Week – held in collaboration with the British Embassy and marked by a special visit from the British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alastair Long – Alosra now extends this celebration of British excellence with a dedicated showcase of iconic UK brands. From household names to pantry staples, this selection captures the rich culinary heritage of the United Kingdom. Enjoy warm and hearty meals with Batchelors’ soups and ready dishes. Refresh your day with the fruity favourites of Robinsons, and snack smart with the unmistakable crunch of Walkers crisps. For gourmet condiments and soups crafted with care, Baxters delivers authentic taste and quality, while Baker Street brings you soft, long-life bakery classics made to last without compromise. This curated assortment is a tribute to British craftsmanship and flavour, carefully selected to suit discerning customers looking for both familiarity and discovery. Ayachi Jomma, Head of Alosra, says: “Alosra is firmly committed to uncompromising quality, and few countries exemplify product integrity and heritage like the United Kingdom. Our selection of British brands reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing world-class standards to our customers.” Whether you’re reliving a taste of home or discovering something new, Alosra invites you to experience the essence of British quality – right in your neighbourhood. alosrasupermarket alosrasupermkt alosraonline.com PROUDLY AVAILABLE at Alosra Supermarket
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 17 A FUTURE OF POSSIBILITY A Legacy of Excellence For over six decades, St Christopher’s School has stood at the forefront of education in Bahrain, offering generations of students a world-class, British-style international education rooted in academic excellence, character development and a strong sense of community. From its founding in 1961 to today, St Chris has been more than a school – it has been a place where young people are inspired to aim high, think critically and grow into compassionate, capable global citizens and role models. Now, as it looks toward the future, St Chis is preparing to take an extraordinary next step with the opening of its new Senior School, set to welcome students in August 2026. Designed to meet the evolving needs of education in the 21st century, this purpose-built campus will feature cutting-edge learning spaces, advanced science and technology laboratories, numerous and varied sport facilities and a wellness-focused design – providing an environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. The new Senior School is not just an investment in the future of St Chris – it’s a bold investment in the future of education in Bahrain. It reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow, and it ensures that St Chris will continue to lead the way as Bahrain’s premier British-style international school. As St Chris builds on its proud legacy, it invites families, partners and the wider community to join it in shaping a future that’s full of promise – for its students, and for Bahrain.
bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 18 UK IN BAHRAIN
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