HAYATINo 7

ISSN: 2327-0314

HAYATIMagazine

RAMADANKareem

from

HAYATI

ALL THANKS BE TO THE ALMIGHTY

FATIMA TOGBEEditor-In-Chief

AAMIRA JOHNSONDirector of Marketing & Advertising

aamira@hayatimagazine.com

BINTA MOHAMMEDOnline Editor & Content Director

binta@hayatimagazine.com+1(573) 415-0275

RUMKI CHOWDHURYWriter

ALYA ALFATHELOnline Blogger

NILLY “MANGO WHIRL”Online Blogger

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Ramzi Hachicho, Bombaert Patrick, Soup Studio, vitalliy, kassandraCONTRINUTING WRITERS: Naouel Nemer & Sara Youssef

FEATURED STORY: Samira Sanusi

Hayati is published monthly by Kimera Media, Potomac, MD, 20854. Hayati is currently only available online. Subscription is free. For information about reprint, e-prints and previous issues please contact +1(202) 618-7284 or media@hayationline.com. The Editor is not responsible for the texts, photos, illustrations and

drawings published herein, which are the sole responsibility of the authors. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent/permission is strictly prohibited. Hayati cannot accept responsibilit for submitted material.

Special thanks to Yanate Banigo, Pinky Majekodunmi, Neya Kalu, Sadiq Nasir, Jude A., Ronke Adegbite,Jide Makinde, and All our readers and followers.

Magazine

Hayati Magazine 180 Talbott Street, Rockville, Maryland, 20852No 7 July-August 2013

Chief Brand Officer: Fatima Togbe

The magazine HAYATI is a publication edited for Hayati by Kimera Media, Potomac, Maryland, 20854

For more information about advertising, makerting, sponsorship, media coverage, sponsored features and morecontact the Director of Marketing and Advertising, Aamira Johnson at aamira@hayatimagazine.com

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Editor’s Letter

time to reflect

ramadan is the time for reflection and rebirth. the reason i’m choosing the word rebirth is because ramadan is everyone’s opportunity to start afresh. it is the time to put all bad habits aside and worship Allah swt wholeheartedly. it is the time to improve your eating habits and it is the time start praying regularly, if you had not been doing so. it is the month where we all remember no to backbite, it is the month where we all abstain from all that is haram and it is the month where most of us turn into the exemplary muslims we should be 24/7 & 365 days a year.

this means that changing is something we can all do and if ramadan is the beginning of someone’s change in life, then alhmdulillah. many people do not believe that they are capable of changing because they feel like they put in too much effort to be good during ramadan. the truth is it’s actually the other way around. Going out every night, missing prayer, having an overly active social life and all the extra glamour and glitz requires a lot of energy.

i find that during ramadan, i am more at peace. i’m not going out for dinner every night; so not only am i saving money but i’m also spending more time with my loved ones. During the day, my time is a lot more constructive, and i feel like everything is in place. this is a feeling i want to have all year round and will have insha’Allah because i am going to work on extending these habits out of ramadan and make them my norm. i pray the same for all of you and pray that ramadan is the beginning of a positive change in all of your lives.

FatimaTogbe6 HAYATIONLINE.COM

Editor’s Pick

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TOP 10 EDITOR PICKS OF

THE MONTHGEORGETTEDuring Ramadan there is always one Iftar dinner or another to attend and this is a perfect dress for such occasion. Matthew Williamson, $2,325.

SHOW STOPPER This is another great gown you can wear out to

an Iftar dinner. It’s simple, modest and

classy. Notte by Marchesa, $950.

QUILT DREAMSEver since I set my eyes on Chanel quilted bags, I have fallen for quilted bag and this Versace isn’t an exception. Versace, $1,595.

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IM A STUDI am always buying accessories, and I never wear them. However this one is one I can see myself wearing often. Valentino, $345.

TOP 10 EDITO PICKS OF THE MONTH

5PLEATS ON PLEATSEvery girl loves a nice pair of Loubs. So to get away from the regular spikes and all, I chose this subtle pair. Christian Louboutin, $945.

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MY OBSESSIONBy now, everyone should know that I love studded and eyelet belts like there is no tomorrow. Actually, I think I just like anything that is gold. Versace, $595.

7FASHION CALLWho says that answering a call cannot be stylish? This is for the nights when carrying a bag is too cumbersome and all you need is your cell. Marc by Marc Jacobs, $58.

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9BOSS MUSLIMAHThis is the type of bag you do not need to dress up for. All you need to do is just wear it. It speaks volumes alone. Lanvin, $2,490.

10 BLING BLINGA little something to make a statement without really making one. Tom Binns, $275.

DARK CLOUDSThis is great for all those short sleeve dresses in my closet. This is also a lovely blazer to wear with a nice pair of white pants. Preen Line, $640.

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HAYATIJULY 2013

FAITH The Sciemce of Dates

(The Prophet’s saw Take on Dates)

HEALTH Fasting The Right Way

(Making The Best of Ramadan)

BEAUTY Beauty Products Under $10

Hair Care Durong Ramadan

FASHION Society & Muslim Fashiom

Hijab-friendly looks Quick Shoe Fix

Accessories Of The Month

LIVINGRamadan-Ready Home

Bracelet, Miki 18-karat gold plated rope, AUréLIE BIdErMANN

LIVINGRecipes

FEATUrE Against All Odds(Samira Sanusi)

IN EVErY ISSUE Editor’s LetterEditor’s Top 10 PicksHayati StoriesInsta-HayatiHot SpotsCredits

HOTSPOT

AYADA RESORT

MALDIVES

MALDIVESKILIMANJAROHA LONG BAY

MADRIDBOLSHOI

VERSAILLESFLORENCE

Whether your dream beach trip consists of spending a few pampered nights in a four-star resort or swimming among tropical fish some 80 feet (24 meters) underwater, the Maldives are the sort of islands where either—or both—can come true. Straddling the Equator southwest of Sri Lanka, the 1,102 islands that make up the Maldives form 26 atolls. The soft air enveloping the archipelago blends into a beautiful palm-fringed haze.

Given Ayada Maldives unique location within the central region of the reef, the island is surrounded by long stretches of white sandy beaches and a crystal clear shallow lagoon; an ideal setting to simply relish the uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean or to discover an myriad of exceptional and abundant marine life. Proximity to the southern tail of the reef makes this a perfect destination for diving and surfing enthusiasts who are keen to explore a unique and undisturbed seascape.

An unforgettable and indulgent journey of luxurious pampering awaits you at Ayada Maldives. Savor the infinite viewsof the spectacular sunsets,delight in the magnificent coral reef, unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments, revel in the long stretches of pristine beach, partake in authentic Maldivian experiences or simply relax with the impeccable personalized service by your Butler.

•AYADA RESORT, Maguhdhuvaa Island -Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Republic of Maldives. Tel : + 960 684 4444. http://www.ayadamaldives.com/

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HOTSPOT KILIMANJARO

Flat-topped Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain. Located on Tanzania’s northern border with Kenya,

the mountain is made up of three extinct volcanoes, Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. The highest peak, Uhuru, is 19,340 feet (5,899 meters) high.

Reaching the top of Kilimanjaro is exhilarating. Take the Machame Route up so you can see the region’s wonderful animals and birds. Then you’ll begin the trek across the Shira Plateau through the Grand Barranco Canyon and on to the top. If all goes as planned, you’ll reach Stella Point with a chance to continue around Kibo’s rim to Uhuru.

This is definetly a spot worth visiting.

•TANZANIA, http://www.ultimatekilimanjaro.com/

Ha Long Bay, or the Bay of the Descending Dragon, in northeastern Vietnam, is scattered with some 3,000 precipitous, strangely sculpted limestone islands and outcrops, and dotted with small floating villages and deserted sandy beaches. In spring and

early summer the water is particularly calm and clear. This UNESCO World Heritage site is best explored by a cruise on a junk.

•HA LONG BAY, VIETNAM, www.footprintsvietnam.com

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HA LONG BAY

Few institutions offer better evidence of Madrid’s insomnia than its perennially popular

chocolaterías (also known as churrerías), typically abuzz with late-night revelers from 4 a.m. to breakfast time. Their trademark dish is the churro, a long waffle-like stick of savory fried dough, eaten dunked into very thick bittersweet hot chocolate. Stop in at the venerable Chocolatería San Ginés, an 1894 throwback. Expect entertainingly brusque service, bright lights, and a frenzied atmosphere.

MADRID

R O S E L L ED U B A I - D O H A

R O S E L L ED U B A I - D O H A

One of Russia’s premier theaters, coupled with one of the best symphony orchestras

in the world, the Bolshoi in Moscow has survived fire, war, and revolution. Its stunning neoclassic portico, topped by a statue of Apollo in his chariot, is a precursor to the magnificent splendor visitors will find when they venture inside. The Bolshoi closed in 2005 for extensive interior renovations and reopened in the fall of 2011.

Four balconies and a top gallery surround the orchestra, where the seats are

Chippendale chairs upholstered in red damask. The great stage is known for its celebrated ballet company. Here, Yuri Grigorovich choreographed memorable productions of Swan Lake, The Golden Age, and Romanda.

HOTSPOT

The famous French landscape designer André Le Nôtre laid out these gardens southwest of Paris in the 17th century at the behest of Louis XIV. The Sun King wanted them to magnify the glory of his palace at Versailles, which was itself a monument to

his absolute rule. The 250 acres (101 hectares) are riddled with paths that lead to flower beds, quiet corners decorated with classical statuary, ornamental lakes, and a canal that King Louis used for gondola rides.

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VERSAILLES

The Florence of Renaissance masters Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo remains much the same to

this day. The massive yet refined 15th-century dome of the Duomo (the cathedral) dominates the tower-dotted skyline. The 360-degree view from the top of its dome is breathtaking. Other city-defining structures include the Palazzo Vecchio tower and the 14th-century shop-lined Ponte Vecchio. The hillside Piazzale Michelangelo lookout, across the Arno River, provides a splendidly classic view of Florence.

FLORENCE

BOLSHOI

HAYATIBEAUTY

8 BEAUTY PRODUCTS UNDER $10

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By: Christiana Molina

Revlon Colorstay 16 Hour Eye Shadow in Sea Mist, $5.99; drugstore.com; Alba Botanica Good & Clean Dual Textured Exfoliating Towelettes, $5.49; target.com; CoverGirl Flamed Out Shadow Pencil in Lime Green Flame, $5.99; target.com; Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer, $8.49; drugstore.com; Essie Nail Polish in The Girls Are Out, $8; ulta.com; Garnier Fructis Style Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Smoothing Milk, $4.49; drugstore.com; L’Oréal Colour Caresse by Colour Riche in Fiery Veil, $9.99; ulta.com; Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55, $7.99; target.com

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TAKING CARE OF THE HAIR UNDER YOUR

HIJAB

HAYATIBEAUTY

Wearing a hijab can often make you lazy with one of the most important things on your body, your hair. You wake up in the morning, get dressed and simply tie your hair in a bun, throw on your hijab and by the time you do you makeup, you’re looking like a Miss Universe. If you can remember, in one of our past issues, we spoke about the benefits of wearing a hijab. It protects your hair from the sun, wind, air, rain and other forms of pollution. Some also argue that women who wear hijabs are less likely to use excessive amounts of hair and chemicals which can in turn damage the hair and cause it to break and or fall out. However, that only works if you regularly take care of the hair under your hijab.

Taking care of your hair does not have to be a long process. Here are several quick things you can do regularly to make sure your hair is staying healthy:• Wear anunder-scarforbonnetto prevent friction between your hair and your hijab. Even though this cause minor breakage, which often goes unnoticed at the end of each day, over a period of months, it all adds up. Also, it’s best to use an under-scarf made from natural fibers such as cotton (This will also help minimize breakage).• Keep your bonnet or under-scarf loose. This will allow some air circulation on your scalp, which will help in stimulating the healthy growth

of your hair.• Switchyourhijab style.Donotalways wear tight styles. Instead try loose styles (the can easily be pinned into place, if that’s one of your worries).• Keep your ponytail or bunloose. If you braid or tie your hair into a ponytail/bun under your headscarf, keep it loose as well so it won’t draw and break your hair.• Donotbraidyourhair,tieitintoa ponytail or put on your headscarf, while your hair is still wet. Instead, let your hair air dry after. The reason is that the humidity on your head scalp can grow dandruff or microorganisms that can trigger a hair-loss.• If your hair dries fast or ispermed, moisturize and oil you hair. Those are two different thing (keep that in mind). The moisture will come from a deep or leave-in conditioner and the oil will serve as a sealant to help preserve that moisture so your hair does not dry up fast.• Let your hair breath. This isvery important. So whenever you get a chance to take the hijab off, just do it. • If your hair naturally gets oily,try and shampoo 3 to 4 times a week, and don’t forget to moisten your hair using a hair conditioner. However if your hair naturally dries up, try and shampoo once a week and do not forget to use a leave-in conditioner and seal in the moister by oiling your hair.

By: Karen Bruno - WebMD

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HAYATIFAITH

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The Prophet (SAW) said: “When one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with dates; but if he cannot get any, then (he should break his fast) with

water, for water is purifying. “

Do you serve dates on your Ramadhan iftar table or make it a point to break your fast with them? If yes, you’re like countless other Muslims around the world who have adopted this sunnah as a personal food tradition of their own.

Dates are not only associated with Ramadhan, however. The fruit is favoured by many Muslims for tahneek, the sunnah of rubbing something sweet into the mouth of a newborn. They are mentioned more than twenty times in the Holy Qur’an – including a mention that they will be a food of Paradise – and numerous ahadith provide evidence that they were an important food among the Arabs and early Muslims.

Let’s look then, at some interesting facts and nutritional information about this naturally sweet and incredibly popular food:

• Dates are the fruitof thedatepalm (Phoenix dactylifera) tree, which is most widely cultivated in the Middle East, North Africa, Central Africa and Southern Asia and Southeast Asia.• Morethan40varietiesofdates

are grown in Arabia alone. Depending on variety, dates may be harvested soft,

dry or semi-dry.• Dateshavebeenconsumedfor

at least 7,000 years and appear to have been cultivated for more than two thousand.• Dateseedscanliedormantfor

years or even decades when germinating conditions are unfavourable.• Datesarehighinsugar,protein

and (when fresh) Vitamin C. They also contain potassium, magnesium, iron, fibre, fat and carbohydrates.• Dates are easily digested,

making them a quick source of energy and nutrients.• Eating dates at iftar can help

your body’s blood glucose levels quickly return to normal.• Consumption of dates will

satisfy the sensation of hunger, which in turn helps avoid overeating.• Dates can be beneficial in

treating constipation, diarrhea and intestinal disorders, and they can help promote a healthy heart. They also help to increase sexual stamina and are believed to be valuable in the prevention and treatment of abdominal cancer.• Dates aren’t just for people;

Arabs in the Sahara are known to use dates as feed for camels, horses and dogs.

This Ramadhan, consider using dates in cakes, cookies, fruit smoothies and more. There are countless ways this blessed fruit can be incorporated

into your diet.

The scienceof

DATES

HAYATIFAITH

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Here are a few tips to fasting the right way this ramadan. Waking up for suhoor may seem like a

lot, but it is a great start to being healthy. The eve of Ramadan brings the annual debate about the effects of fasting on one’s health. But doctors and nutritionists agree that if Muslims do all they are supposed to, the month becomes one that is both physically and spiritually cleansing. Gorging on food as soon as the sun sets, then spending the evening snacking on nuts that are high in calories and make you thirsty is bad for anyone’s health, Dr Habib said. “It is little wonder that by the end of the month, many have gained weight and are worse for wear,” he added. “Iftar meals are often heavy and high in carbohydrates, and people eat countless servings of desserts all night, forgetting all about fruits and vegetables.” To make matters worse, people spend their evenings inhaling shisha smoke in tents with poor ventilation, Dr Habib said. “There needs to be constant awareness about what constitutes a healthy Ramadan because if the fast is not done correctly, then it will have a negative impact on health, rather than the positive impact that it could have,” he said. Health authorities have been giving lectures in the past few weeks on how to have a healthy Ramadan.Daman, the national insurance company, and the Dubai Health Authority addressed diabetics on remaining active during their fast and being aware of portion control. Seha, the Abu Dhabi health services company, will run two campaigns to provide healthy lifestyle tips for the month. “Ramadan can offer a number of health benefits, especially when people monitor their dietary intake and ensure the maintenance of any medication regimens they are on,” said Khalifa Al Ketbi, the deputy chief of operations at Seha. It is not a time to worry about losing weight but it can be a time to adopt healthy habits, said Dana Shadid, a nutritionist. “By cutting out junk food, eating three balanced and healthy meals - one at iftar, one five hours later

before sleeping and then one at Suhoor before sunrise - and drinking plenty of water, Ramadan is a step towards a healthier lifestyle,” Ms Shadid said. Dr Mohammed Al Qubaisi, the grand mufti at the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, said those who are fasting should take the opportunity to rid themselves of habits they do not like. “A smoker usually cannot stay away from it for a long time, but in Ramadan all of them manage to stay away from it for a long time until they break their fast,” he said. “This is repeated daily so by the end of the day, this feeling of achievement should be used to get rid of any habits.” Dr Richard Stangier, a consultant in internal medicine at Al Rawdah German Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, said the risk of dehydration and dizziness during fasting makes fluid intake vital after breaking the fast. “When fasting, glucose levels will generally drop down and with it energy levels,” Dr Stangier said. “Fasting can also affect the metabolic rate, leading to biochemical reactions while the body burns it own fat, which produces toxic end products.” Staying hydrated with water, not sugary juices, is the only way to battle that, he said. And skipping the suhoor meal before the morning Fajr prayer is the worst thing a person can do, Ms Shadid warned. “Many people find it hard to wake up but eating just one large meal a day is very bad for one’s lipid profile - the amount of fat in the blood,” she said. “Having some cereal, or a fruit and yogurt, or food with a low glycaemic index which slowly releases energy and keeps hunger pangs at bay for longer is imperative.” But all of this is easier said than done. “If we all spend the month as we should, not making the big issue be the food but instead the prayer and the closeness to our Creator, then you wouldn’t see such a popularity of sweets during the month and find that most have gained weight after 30 days of fasting,” Ms Shadid said. “What’s ironic is that Ramadan provides so much opportunity to feel better, especially after the first few days of withdrawal, and only if the effort is made to drink plenty of water in the hours when the fast is broken.”

HAYATIHEALTH

WWW.ARMINE.COM.TR

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Assalam ahleycoum my sisters. I wanted to share with you my experience and perception of the Muslim community in England as a visitor to the UK. I am a 27 year old

French woman of Algerian decent living in the South West of England.

Due to the lack of employment opportunities in France, I came to England on a marketing internship program to gain some work experience.

I have been here for three months now and have been living with an English family who are just as open minded as me elhamdoulillah!

When I found out I was going to be visiting England, I was really worried about how I would fit in and if the family I was going to live with would accept me for being a Muslim woman who wore the hijab. I was also concerned that I would struggle to adapt to the English culture.

So many questions crossed my mind at that time. I decided to carry out research about the Muslim community in the UK, and was very pleased to know that the restrictions we have in France didn’t seem to apply over here. After praying to Allah for guidance, I pledged to take up this internship opportunity hoping to be rewarded by a good international experience.

One of the first things which I discovered when I arrived here was the friendliness and the compassion of people – towards a hijabi woman!

In France, I was used to having negative glances about my ‘unusual look’ and people telling me that because of my Muslim appearance it would be very difficult for me to be accepted in the working environment as I ‘don’t look like them’.

I’ve heard many people call England as the Abyssinia land in regards to the first Muslims who immigrated to another land and were accepted for who they were.

I was not disappointed and to my surprise I felt elated to see people smiling towards me and talking to me as a normal person. The foreigner I am with the Muslim veil I wear and the French accent I have do not bother people and this is what I call an ethical sense – sense that I discovered after 27 years of my life in a foreign land.

This acceptance and feeling normal gave me the energy to find out more about the Muslim community over here and I decided to attend some conferences and events in order to find out what was really happening in this society.

I have travelled to London almost every weekend since I came here in May to meet people from my community and to attend amazing events. I didn’t mind travelling all the way from the south of England on sometimes very long coach journeys. Because of this, I have now been introduced to and met many hardworking strong Muslim women, who stand up for their rights, have jobs, and are married with children.

I am not saying this is not the case in France because we also do have many inspirational Muslim women there.

The difference is over here the Muslim women come across as more independent and have, in my opinion, a better platform to work with. The sisters that I have been acquainted with seem determined to raise awareness through charitable work and have set up many organisations to encourage participation in the community.

I was amazed to see the beautiful way my sisters chose to wear their hijabs, making it almost fashionable. This made me feel proud and reminded me how colourful and liberating this head-scarf can be!

I was totally overwhelmed and amazed by some of my sisters walking besides me in the streets. To my amazement they were wearing beautiful clothes and matching hijabs while mainting their modesty Masha-Allah.

It proved to me that the more accepted you feel, the prouder you are to show your identity. This is just amazing! Thanks to Allah, through this motivation and enthusiasm the Muslim community in England is becoming more and more blooming and flourishing.

From my view point it would appear that the Muslims in England are some way ahead of France in terms of having a better lifestyle without the constant worrying of feeling alienated.

It is refreshing and incredible feeling safe walking outdoors with my head-scarf on!

In France, recently many Muslim sisters have been attacked by some violent and thuggish individuals. The situation in France seems to be getting worse and it is becoming very dangerous while our elected government remains silent.

It would seem to me that the fear is being driven by some members of our government who are creating a division and ‘islamophobic’ atmosphere.

I would appeal to all my Muslim brothers and sisters and even non-Muslims in the UK to unite and stand up against ‘Islamophobia’ in every corner of the world. From my experience in England, it is so easy for everyone to get along and thrive as a community regardless of race, colour, religion or culture.

Most people want to live a happy and fulfilling life, and have common goals to protect their community and live side-by-side.This experience has brought back my faith in humanity and although I am not naive to believe that everyone in England is the same.

But I know that deep down in my heart England has got a lot of positives to be proud of and I would like to thank my hosts for showing me what it feels like to be accepted as a Muslim woman who has chosen to wear the hijab on my own accord.

As I am done with my internship, I will be travelling back to France just in time for the start of the fasting month. I wish I could come back soon to live another experience in England. I leave with fond memories and want to wish everyone who reads my story Ramadan Mubarak…Your sister Naouel from France.

HAYATISTORIES

A FRENCH MUSLIMAH IN LONDON

By: Naouel Nemer

HAYATIFASHION

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Society plays a big role when it comes to fashion & wearing the hijab however, we all have the right to make our own decisions, whether we choose to follow popular trends (even if it means falling off of the ‘mod-est fashion bandwagon’) or, making our own trends and respecting the ‘flag’ on our heads (the hijab).

Growing up, Muslim fashion was a major craze in my household, from my mother above all with her design skills inspiring me to become the fashion lover I am today and also inspiring me to build my own Muslim

fashion blog & YouTube account to help out my fellow Muslim sisters. I would like to take the opportunity to share my learning’s and inspirations to other muslins out there not just women wearing the hijab but also without.Modesty is the main fashion principle that I go by daily and I think we all should. My motto is “if it’s not mod-est, it’s not worth wearing”. I love seeing random Muslim women wearing beautiful modest clothing; some-times I even stop them and ask if I can photograph them for my blog. My point here is that you don’t have to wear revealing, tight fitted clothes to look fashionable.

When I say modest I do not mean wearing an Abaya, Jilbab or Niqab. Yes, these are beautiful iconic ways of representing our faith & religion (when worn correctly) however; you do not need to wear these to be modest. It can be as simple as a combination of a maxi skirt, long cardigan & hijab.

When new trends immerge in society we get too excited that sometimes we may be unaware that we are dress-ing ourselves in ways that may be inappropriate. For example, I do not classify ‘Harem’ pants any different from Jeans or leggings. They still show your figure and when worn on a windy day, let me just say, they are not pretty!The moral of my article is that society is just an excuse for Muslim women to dress whichever way they please. You have the ability to choose your own style instead of following immodest trends that immerge in society. Ask yourself this question, why do we constantly look at ourselves in the mirror each day? Is it to please our-selves, others or Allah (swt)? If it’s to please others than maybe you should consider not caring about what others think of what you wear but what Allah (swt) will think.

I hope this article has at least helped a minority of Muslim women to think twice about the way they dress and if it is appropriate or not. Don’t forget my motto and use it to your advantage, ‘If it is not modest, it is not worth wearing’.

Blog: muslimfashionguide.blogspot.com.auYouTube: youtube.com/muslimfashionguideInstagram: @sara_why

SOCIETY & MUSLIM FASHION

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Embellished silk-chiffon and crepe gown, NOTTE BY MArCHESA, $950; Box Office Pandora Perspex clutch, CHArLOTTE OLYMPIA, $2,795;

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Perla Lurex and double-crepe gown, rOLANd MOUrET, $4,470; The Knot mini intrecciato satin and ayers clutch, BOTTEGA VENETTA, $1,380;

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Color block velvet and crepe gown, STELLA MCCArTNEY, $3,100; The Knot mini intrecciato satin and ayers clutch, BOTTEGA VENETTA, $1,380;

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Printed silk-chiffon kaftan, ISSA, $895; Intrecciato metallic leather sandals, BOTTEGA VENETTA, $590; Melted Envelope silver-tone shoulder bag, ANNdrA NEEN, $740.

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Crepe maxi dress, CHALAYAN, $957; Silver-tone dotted choker, ANNdrA NEEN, $475; Sweetie glitter-print acrylic clutch, JIMMY CHOO, $750;

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Embellished silk-chiffon maxi dress, ISSA, $1,320; The Candy glitter-print acrylic clutch, JIMMY CHOO, from $390

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Guinevere corded lace gown, TEMPErLEY LONdON, $6,180; The Knot watersnake-trimmed intrecciato leather clutch, BOTTEGA VENETTA, $1800;

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1.

2.

3.

1. ISABEL MARANT, Feist flared merino wool-felt belt,$290; 2. VERSACE, Porta quilted leather BlackBerry case, $325; 3. ROBERTO CAVALLI, Engraved Swarovski crystal cuff, $1,015; 4. PERCOSSI PAPI, Sun and Moon rose gold-plated multistone earrings, $1,025; 5. DOLCE & GABBANA, Cerimonia gold-plated, faux pearl and crocheted clip earrings, $1,095; 6. MARIO TESTINO FOR MATE by VICKIBEAMON, gold-plated, Swarovski crystal and pompom necklace, $1,080

4.

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ROLAND MOURETMotabor stretch-leather over-the-knee boots$1,700

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTINGeo 100 studded suede pumps$725

VERSACEStudded leather high-top

sneakers$1,525

MARNIFringed patent-leather

brogues$680

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GIANVITO ROSSITwo-tone leather and suede

pumps$705

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We recently sent out a message through social media asking all our Sisters who feel like they have a story to tell to email us at Hayati. I was not sure what

to expect to be honest but I was excited nonetheless to receive stories from Sisters around the world. As I personally went through some of these stories, there was one in particular that struck a major cord, the story of Samira Sanusi. Her story was so moving that I decided to meet her in person. So we set a date and time and met up for drinks.

I had already looked her up and gone through her blog, so I knew a little bit about her or at least what she looked like. When she arrived, I found her a lot more beautiful in person. She walked in about 5’5” in height and small frame just like me so I loved her right away. She wore a fashionable abaya, carried a matching bag and had a smile on her face to seal it all.

Once we got through our introductions, she began telling me the story of how she fought and survived one of the deadliest diseases, the sickle cell disease. She took me around the world as she detailed her search for a cure. Her journey ended up being more than a search for a cure but also a search for God and herself. Along the way she discovered an unrelenting strength within her that helped her keep a smile on her face even through hard times. Seeing her walk in with just one crutch as an aid, I was amazed and inspired by how far Samira had gone. After twenty-five surgeries (minor and major), emotional trials, tests in faith and years away from her family, Samira is completely healed from sickle cell and is able to walk.

Her childhood, unlike many, was filled with hospital visits, constant health crises and surgeries. She did not have the chance to go out and play with her friends or even attend school frequently because she

was too weak to do so. Instead, she spent a lot of her time reading and looking forward to those few days of school she could manage to attend. After years of being in Abuja, Nigeria, with doctors who were unable to help her any further, her father decided to fly her to Saudi Arabia where Samira spent months going through surgeries to re-do the ones that had been improperly done in Nigeria.

Being in Saudi was very tough for Samira as she was without her family and friends and was out of school. Once her surgeries had been properly redone, the doctors in Saudi concluded that they would have to amputate both of Samira’s legs in order for her to combat the disease. Her father, who has always been by her side, refused to accept their diagnosis and sought a second opinion world-wide till he found a hospital in Austria that informed them that there was indeed a cure, although risky, that would not involve amputating her legs. So they flew to Austria and that was the beginning of her 7 year stay there.

In Austria, Samira and her father learned more about the procedure that could cure her Sickle Cell Disease: a bone marrow transplant. A bone marrow transplant involves taking healthy stem cells from the bone marrow of one person and transferring them to the bone marrow of another. Bone marrow transplants are often needed to treat conditions that damage bone marrow (it is no longer able to produce normal blood cells) such as sickle cell disease, leukaemia, and some immune deficiency diseases. Once the transplant is done, the new stem cells take over the blood cell production and should begin producing normal blood cells. Bone marrow transplantation is not 100% guaranteed to cure sickle cell disease, however it was a risk Samira and her father were willing to take.

At this point, Samira was being home schooled by tutors who would come to the hospital to work with

against all oddsThe story of a Samira Sanusi resilient young woman who against all odds,

fought and survived the sickle cell disease.

By: Fatima Togbe

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her, and since the procedure was one that could not be performed right away, she had of some time on her hands. There were a series of surgeries and extensive physical therapy she needed to complete in order to prepare her body for the transplant. So Samira spent the months leading to her surgery in a medical institution in Graz, Austria, where she says was a period of utter darkness in her life. She was unable to go outside for months, she was separated from her friends, family and the outside world and she felt like all her memories of were being replaced by long days and nights within hospital walls. She managed to stay connected to the world through letters her father would send her, the television, through which she learned to speak German and creative therapy sessions where she could engage in activities like writing and jewellery making.

During an interview with Genevieve Magazine in August 2011, Samira explained how, “She spent so many months in bed that some of her muscles began growing short and also suffered infections”. Consequently, she had to do physiotherapy which was close to a nightmare. She explained in her interview that “it was mentally frustrating for her to try to re-learn functions that had come naturally to her as a child such as sitting and standing and there are no words to describe the physical pain she endured during her therapy sessions”. She screamed and cried during these sessions she told them in the interview and “whenever the time for her physiotherapy sessions approached, she dreaded the tick of the clock or footsteps of her physiotherapist like the proverbial plague”.

Many times she would question God and her life and wonder why everything had to happen to her of all people. She comes from a religious family, where she was thaught to always perform her prayers and also attended Islamic school, so for her to question her faith, she had really hit rock bottom. In our interview she recalled visits from local churches while she was in the hospital where they would pray for her and try and convince her that if she believed she would walk again, she would, and all she had to do was just stand up. Once, she accompanied them to a church service where she witnessed some form of a miracle. Someone who was blind began to see, and as he did, they called on people in the audience to simply accept

Christ and be healed. This was a very trying time for her, because she was frustrated by not being able to walk and drawn to the possibility of being healed like the blind man before her; but she held on to her religion and put all her faith in Allah swt.

Samira’s brother was a match for the bone marrow transplant, so he sacrificed some months of school and underwent a few surgeries and treatments in preparation for the transplant. The transplant itself is non-invasive. It does not require any cuts; instead it’s fairly easy and closer to a blood transfusion. After the surgery, Samira and her brother had to wait for a period of one hundred days to make sure her body did not reject the transplant. Those one hundred days were the final stretch for Samira and her family because once they were over, they received good news that Samira had been completely healed from Sickle Cell.

Now Samira is finishing her degree in Business Administration online which allows her to be at home. She spent so many years away from her family, that being home with them while she finishes her degree is a form a therapy and healing process for her. Being home she is now able to participate in all the family events she missed out on during her time away such as weddings, Eid festivities, birthdays and more; and essentially recreate new memories. I asked Samira what she sees herself doing once she finishes her degree and she told me about her dreams to be a fashion designer and most importantly work with NGOs to help people affected by sickle cell disease.

This gift we call life often times seems very complicated. It can be hard to understand why certain things happen to you and on certain occasions you may feel like life could not get any worse. However I have found that when you do what you are meant to do, which is, pray, trust Allah swt with your life, pursue an education and knowledge, respect your parents, lead an exemplary life and believe that Allah swt will not give you a battle he knows you cannot win, life becomes so much easier. Samira went through so much overcoming sickle cell disease and she survived it with a stronger faith in Islam, greater appreciation for her family and an understanding that life is to be taken one day at a time and with this, to everything she says “Alhamdulillah”.

GETTING YOUR HOME

RAMADANREADY

Edited by: Fatima Togbe

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Sunset is fast approaching. The CD of Qur’anic recitation you hoped would serenade you until your guests arrived is on but is being drowned out by the sound of your children

playing. And while you’ve purchased the dates, have plenty of water on deck and have your family’s traditional Ramadhan dish simmering on the stove, you’re still scurrying around the house picking up toys, tucking away papers and magazines, trying to get the house in order. Suddenly the doorbell rings! Iftar guests have arrived and you still haven’t got around to hiding those unsightly odds and ends!

For Muslims around the world, in addition to fasting and prayer, Ramadhan also means entertaining family and friends in our homes. If the above scenario seems remotely familiar, the following tips are just what you need to get your iftar entertaining in order and take the stress out of pre-iftar cleanup.

1. The early bird catches the worm – Get started on clean up 2-3 days before your iftar. This will allow you to pace yourself and avoid a last-minute frenzy. Use this time to finalise your table setting and décor and to make sure you have all the right ingredients, dishes and serving utensils you’ll need. 2. Focus your cleaning efforts on the spots that matter – Nothing makes a house look more uninviting than clutter. To get rid of the clutter, take an empty laundry basket into the rooms you know your guests will see, pick up things that don’t belong and toss them into the basket. Stash the basket in a closet or somewhere guests won’t look. Don’t forget to put away any precious items that might get broken. 3. Invest in smart storage alternatives – Decorative storage boxes, trunks, storage ottomans, and wicker baskets with lids are all great alternative solutions for quickly hiding away clutter. They are multifunctional, serving as both decorative elements in your space and allowing you to disguise everything from children’s action figures and crafts to magazines and mail. 4. Make it a family affair – Get your family involved in prep for the iftar. Enlist the help of your kids and spouse. Have

your children to help plan activities to keep guests’ children entertained during the iftar. Ask your husband to help with preparing the space or activities for men attending the iftar.5. Hide the dirty dishes – If you have dirty dishes in the kitchen sink, load them all into the dishwasher to get them out of sight. Guests are coming to break their fast and don’t really want to see all the work and dirty dishes that went into making your scrumptious meal.6. Don’t forget those extra touches! – Preparing your home for an iftar is more than just removing clutter. Use this opportunity to add simple touches that make your home comfortable and inviting to guests. Fresh flowers or a favourite fragranced candle are just right for welcoming guests. Remember to spritz upholstered furniture with fabric refresher and fluff pillows too.7. Bathroom musts – Tidy up the bathroom. Usually, the cleaner you make the bathroom ahead of time, the cleaner your guests will feel they have to leave it. So be sure to make it look nice and neat. Remove everything from the bathroom but the essentials, leaving only fresh soap, guest towels, extra toilet tissue and a small bouquet of fresh flowers.8. Make empty bins visible – People won’t necessarily go hunting for a bin when they have a pile of plates and cups to dispose of. If they don’t know where you normally keep your rubbish bin, they’re not going to make much effort to find it. Make sure you leave just a few empty bins visible to guests. Otherwise, you’ll be picking up half eaten dates and rice in different areas of the house days later.9. Make your home comfortable and welcoming for all guests – Before guests arrive, arrange the furniture as you’ll want it for the iftar. If men will be in one section of the home and women in another, make sure that guests can move easily from one part of your house to another to get to those designated areas. Depending on the amount of guests you’re expecting, figure out where your food, beverages, and desserts will go to avoid a traffic jam of guests. Also make sure that you have adequate seating and accommodation for all of the guests you’ve invited. 10. Children matter too – Be sure to consider all members of the families you’ve invited when planning your iftar. Having colouring books, finger foods, snacks and games available is key to keeping little ones entertained and this allows adult guests to relax and have the memorable time you’ve planned for them.

Author Bio:Saudah Saleem enjoys the challenge of creating a beautiful space on a budget. Using unexpected colour schemes, pairing new and vintage pieces, layering modern and traditional style, Saudah prides herself on her ability to effortlessly create beautiful spaces within any budget. She is passionate about interior design and has been featured on and consulted by MSN.com as an Interior Design expert. Her work has been recognized by fellow interior designers and featured in a selection of interior design publications in the U.S. View her portfolio, design inspiration and tips at www.saudahsaleem.com

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RAMADANREADY

Edited by: Fatima Togbe

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HAYATILIVING

Hayati RecipesA few cool DIY recipes collections for you to try at home. Plus a sweet cooling dessert to finish your meal off.

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MEXICAN RICE

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon oil1 small onion, chopped1 garlic clove, chopped1 teaspoon cumin1 cup long grain white rice130 g tomato paste1 cup chicken stock

METHOD

Preheat oven 400 degrees F.Heat the oil in a medium NON STICK! pan, add the onion and cook for 5 min-

utes, or until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes, or until well coated in the oil.

Add the tomato paste, cumin and stock to the pan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to very low, cover tightly with a lid and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice tender.

Fluff up the grains with a fork and serve as a side dish.

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SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP

INGREDIENTS

2 cups parmesan cheese1 (10 ounce) box frozen chopped spin-ach, thawed1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped2/3 cup sour cream1 cup cream cheese1/3 cup mayonnaise2 teaspoons garlic, minced

METHOD

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Mix together Parmesan cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts.

Combine remaining ingredients and mix with spinach mixture.

Bake for 20-30 minutes.

Serve with crackers or toasted bread.

BEEF & BROCCOLI STIR FRYINGREDIENTS3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided1/2 cup water, plus2 tablespoons water, divided1/2 teaspoon garlic powder1 lb boneless round steak or 1 lb charcoal chuck steak, cut into thin 3-inch strips2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided4 cups broccoli florets1 small onion, cut into wedges1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce2 tablespoons brown sugar1 teaspoon ground gingerhot cooked rice

METHOD

In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 2 table-spoons water and garlic powder until smooth.

Add beef and toss.

In a large skillet or wok over medium high heat, stir-fry beef in 1 tablespoon oil until beef reaches desired doneness; remove and keep warm.

Stir-fry broccoli and onion in remaining oil for 4-5 minutes.

Return beef to pan.

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger and remain-ing cornstarch and water until smooth; add to the pan.

Cook and stir for 2 minutes.

Serve over rice.

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OREO TRUFFLESINGREDIENTS1 lb Oreo cookies (3 sleeves)8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (using dif-ferent extracts allows for subtle flavour changes...I’ve used mint extract, upped to 1 tsp) (optional)1 lb milk chocolate1/2 lb white chocolate

For Ice Pops:

Using a food processor, grind cookies to a fine powder. With a mixer, blend cookie powder, cream cheese and vanilla extract until thoroughly mixed (there should be no white traces of cream cheese).

Roll into small balls and place on wax-lined cookie sheet. Refrigerate for 45 minutes.

Line two cookie sheets with wax paper. In double-boiler, melt milk chocolate. Dip balls and coat thoroughly. With slotted spoon, lift balls out of chocolate and let excess chocolate drip off. Place on wax-pa-per-lined cookie sheet.

In separate double boiler, melt white choc-olate. Using a fork, drizzle white chocolate over balls. Let cool.

Store in airtight container, in refrigerator.

Note: When I am exceedingly lazy (most often the case these days), I forego the chocolate ‘dip’ and merely roll my truffles into various mixtures - chopped nuts, choc-olate sprinkles, vari-coloured candy sprin-kles, cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, coloured sugars -- still pretty -- less work

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