Words by Sarah Joseph & Camille Macawaili
We ask some of the most incredible women we know, what small things elevate their own lives and how they uplift all the women they’re surrounded with.
Zoya Sakr
Founder of The Flower Society
What small things elevate your life?
Spending time with my family and friends elevates my life morally and emotionally, listening to my kids, advising them, discussing my worries, my plans, and things that give me drive in life and taking the opinions of my loved ones elevates me.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
I love taking care of my family, making my mom happy means the world to me, we just came back from an escape in the Maldives for her 80th birthday, and spending full days with my family brings joy to everyone. Being there for family, colleagues and friends elevate their lives, time is the most precious thing you can offer them.
Amna Mohammad Karmostaji
Fashion designer & founder of Elna Line
What small things elevate your life?
Every morning, I make it a priority to start my day with a fresh and optimistic mindset. I believe in clearing my mind of negative thoughts and accepting what I cannot change and so my social circle consists of individuals who bring positivity, happiness, and joy into my life. I am a firm believer in setting personal and professional goals, and I find immense pleasure and satisfaction in achieving them. I am also a believer in constant growth and development, both mentally and physically, and I strive to learn new skills and acquire knowledge by surrounding myself with individuals who have similar aspirations and goals. Doing so motivates me and offers fresh perspectives and inspiration. It is a fantastic way to grow and share ideas with like-minded individuals. In my free time, I engage in activities that bring me pure joy, such as practicing yoga, going on beach trips, spending girls’ nights with my closest friends, and exploring new places.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
I always strive to maintain a positive outlook, as I believe that positivity is infectious. Leading by example is also a principle that I adhere to and make a point of keeping my promises and showing that I am committed through my actions. This builds a strong foundation of trust and loyalty, which is crucial when building and maintaining relationships. My loved ones know that they can always count on me, no matter how trivial their problems may seem as having a support system is essential. While it’s easy to celebrate success, true friends are the ones who stand by you during your lows and lift you up when you’re feeling- ing down. Small acts of kindness can go a long way, and I try to make it a habit to give compliments to my colleagues, peers, and friends as little reminders of their worth. As part of the Elnaline brand, we have always been involved in social causes to uplift and support women. I feel privileged to be in a position to positively impact the lives of those around me through small gestures. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s the little thoughtful things that people remember and appreciate the most.
Nayla Al Khaja
First Female Film Writer, Director and Producer in the UAE
What small things elevate your life?
Welcoming my children with open arms every day after school invigorates my life with joy and purpose. Strolling through our lovely neighbourhood in the morning while chatting with my dear brother uplifts my spirits and sets a positive tone for the day. Receiving an unexpected “I love you” message from my beloved husband fills my soul with an elevated sense of love and contentment.
How do you elevate the lives of those around you?
My mission is to uplift and inspire those in my circle by sparking innovative ideas and collaborating to bring them to fruition. Sharing delicious meals and performing small acts of kindness are just a few of the ways I seek to elevate those around me. However, I believe that the most powerful tool for elevating the human spirit is laughter, which has the ability to heal, connect, and transform lives.
Nadine Kanso
Founder of Jewellery Brand Bil Arabi
What small things elevate your life?
I think what elevates my life is my need for human interaction. I love to socialise, meeting new people and learning about new things truly inspires me and allows me to foster my personal growth and development. I love to be surrounded by positive and loving energy. That, I believe really elevates life! Having a support system builds resilience. When we choose to surround ourselves with positive and loving people, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities and potential. It all starts with the energy that we choose to bring into our lives. I thrive on what adds value to me and allows me to grow.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
In return, I elevate the lives of those around me by making sure to be there for them when they need me, always trying to offer all the love and support I have. Giving love and support to those around us is one of the most powerful ways to make a positive impact. When we take the time to show kindness and compassion to others, we not only elevate their lives but also enrich our own.
Honayda Serafi
Fashion Designer
What small things elevate your life?
Any positive gesture elevates my life. And it is indeed the smallest things that elevate it. Like waking up to a shining sunrise, listening to music, dancing, seeing people happy, doing sports, and accepting life as it is! But also whatever nourishes my soul. I long for adventures, discovering new cultures and visiting heritage sites. Every trip brings inspiration and elevates my mind.
How do you elevate the lives of those around you?
From a philanthropist perspective, I thrive to always make an actual positive change in the lives of those in need. Whether through my activities with the children of AlOula NPO, or the craftswomen of Alwaleed Philanthropies. I believe myself to be lucky, to be able to impact other people’s lives positively through my brand, specifically women, as well as the young talents of the Kingdom who I accompany as a mentor through my role with the Saudi 100 brands programme and King Abdul Aziz University.
Arwa AlKadi
Fashion Designer
What small things elevate your life?
A good cup of coffee in the morning, writing three things I’m grateful for everyday, exercising, focusing on my spirituality and spending quality time with family and friends. Working in a creative industry with like-minded people also really inspires me.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
My relationships are important to me, whether that’s family, friends or colleagues. I try to be there for the people around me, support them in what they need and lift them up.
Sophie Bille Brahe
Jewellery Designer
What small things elevate your life?
The colour of the sky, a walk with my dog, a drawing from my daughter. I try to remain sensitive to all the beautiful things surrounding me.
How do you elevate the lives of people around you?
Taking care of the people around me is the most important thing I can do. I want to be as present as I can for them. I try to see people where they are and meet them at that exact moment. It can be difficult, but it is so important. Time is so scarce, so giving your time to others is the best gift you can give. I try my best to be there for the ones I love, to gather them around the table to share as much as can be.
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