Business

Traditional Businesses navigating the shadows of uncertainty and the light of Innovation By Marina Ezzat Alfred Nestled in the heart of Paris, like a precious gem hidden in plain sight, La Belle Époque has been a cherished institution since the dawn of the 20th century. This haven of handcrafted clothing and accessories, a veritable treasure trove for discerning Parisians, enjoyed decades of unwavering success, its charming façade and vintage décor attracting a fiercely loyal clientele.  But the relentless march of the digital age, with its online behemoths and capricious consumer whims, presented a formidable challenge. Madame Claire, the boutique’s owner, a woman whose spirit mirrored the enduring elegance of her establishment, recognized the need for a metamorphosis a phoenix-like rise from the ashes of outdated retail practices.  Her vision? To modernize La Belle Époque without sacrificing its soul, its irreplaceable heritage. The transformation began subtly, almost imperceptibly. The store’s layout, once a charming but somewhat haphazard arrangement, was redesigned with a deft hand.  The result? A harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication, think Parisian chic meets minimalist elegance. Sleek displays, interactive elements, and a carefully curated atmosphere invited customers to engage with the merchandise in entirely new and exciting ways.  It was a symphony of sight, touch, and experience. Next, Madame Claire embraced the digital realm, launching a sophisticated e-commerce platform. This wasn’t just another online shop; it was a virtual extension of the boutique itself, meticulously crafted to provide a seamless and luxurious online shopping experience. Social media, that often-maligned double-edged sword, became a potent tool in Madame Claire’s arsenal. Through captivating storytelling and visually stunning content, La Belle Époque captured the imaginations of a far wider audience than ever before, extending its reach beyond the cobblestone streets of Paris. But the innovation didn’t stop there. To further enhance the in-store experience, Madame Claire cleverly integrated cutting-edge technology. Virtual fitting rooms and augmented reality features allowed customers to virtually try on garments, a truly game-changing addition that appealed to tech-savvy shoppers and dramatically increased foot traffic. It was a stroke of genius, a perfect marriage of tradition and technology. The results have been nothing short of spectacular. La Belle Époque, once a quiet haven, has become a Parisian hotspot, attracting thousands of visitors monthly. Tourists and locals alike flock to the boutique, eager to experience this unique fusion of heritage and modernity. The boutique’s regular events celebrating local artisans further cemented its position as a vibrant cultural hub, a testament to Madame Claire’s visionary leadership. Today, La Belle Époque stands as a shining example of successful retail reinvention. It’s a compelling narrative of adaptation and innovation, a story that proves that even the most venerable institutions can thrive in the digital age by embracing change while fiercely protecting their core values.  It’s a testament to the power of vision, a Parisian fairytale with a happy ending. Hurdles and Trials The shift from analog to digital operations presents a formidable hurdle for brick-and-mortar retailers. It’s not simply a matter of flipping a switch; it’s a multifaceted challenge, a veritable hydra of difficulties. Let’s delve into the ten-headed beast: Firstly, resistance to change is a significant roadblock. Employees, comfortable in their established routines, often view new technologies with suspicion, a phenomenon as old as time itself. Think of the Luddites; they weren’t wrong to feel threatened, just perhaps a little behind the curve. Overcoming this requires a robust change management strategy, a carefully orchestrated ballet of training and communication.  Secondly, the high initial investment can be paralyzing. Implementing new point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, or robust e-commerce platforms demands a significant financial outlay a hefty price tag that can be prohibitive, especially for smaller retailers. It’s like trying to climb Everest in flip-flops; you need the right gear. Thirdly, skill gaps are a pervasive issue. Existing staff may lack the technical proficiency to navigate these new systems effectively.  Bridging this chasm requires comprehensive training, a time-consuming and costly endeavor that can stretch even the most well-resourced businesses thin.  Fourth, the integration of new technologies with legacy systems can be a Herculean task, a labyrinthine puzzle of compatibility issues. This can lead to operational bottlenecks, delays, and immense frustration, a perfect storm of inefficiency.  Fifth, the explosion of customer data presents both opportunities and significant challenges.  Managing and securing this sensitive information requires robust systems and adherence to stringent regulations. It’s a tightrope walk between leveraging data for business advantage and safeguarding customer privacy. Sixth, customer adaptation is key. Customers, creatures of habit, may resist embracing new technologies like mobile apps or online ordering.  Retailers must proactively educate and incentivize adoption, gently nudging customers towards the digital future.  Seventh, maintaining brand identity in the face of technological transformation is paramount.  The risk of losing that cherished personal touch, that unique brand essence, is ever-present.  The challenge is to marry modern efficiency with the warmth of human interaction, a delicate balancing act.  Eighth, supply chain modernization is often a necessary but painful process. Updating logistics and supplier relationships, especially for long-standing partnerships, can be disruptive and complex.  It’s a bit like changing the engine of a moving car; precision and timing are crucial. Ninth, the ongoing maintenance and upgrades required for technological systems are a constant drain on resources.  Allocating budget and personnel for this essential but often overlooked aspect is crucial, especially for smaller businesses operating on tighter margins.  It’s like owning a classic car; constant upkeep is a must. Finally, measuring and adapting to the changing landscape requires a sophisticated approach.  Retailers need robust metrics and analytics to gauge the effectiveness of their technological investments, a task requiring specialized expertise and resources.  It’s a continuous cycle of assessment, adjustment, and optimization. What is the Key? Launching a user-friendly e-commerce website isn’t just about expanding your reach; it’s about creating a seamless, 24/7 shopping experience. Imagine the possibilities: customers browsing your latest collection at 3 AM, from anywhere in the world!  That’s the power of a well-designed online store. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, these

Daring to SoarKim Perell Bold Moves and Transformative Success r By Desk Editor In a world where fear often paralyzes ambition, Kim Perell stands as a beacon of courage, resilience, and innovation. From her humble beginnings in Portland, Oregon, to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur, investor, author, and speaker, Perell’s story is one of remarkable transformation. As a 9-time founder and investor in over 100 companies, she has built a reputation for turning challenges into opportunities. With her latest book, Jump: Dare to Do What Scares You in Business and in Life, Perell invites others to embrace bold decisions that can lead to extraordinary growth. Kim Perell’s journey exemplifies resilience and determination. After facing the challenges of a failed startup early in her career, she rebounded with remarkable tenacity. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Pepperdine University, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors.  Her early struggles became the crucible that forged her entrepreneurial spirit, eventually propelling her to the heights of success. In 2018, Perell made waves with her first book, The Execution Factor: The One Skill that Drives Success, which became a USA Today National Best-Selling Book and debuted at No. 2 on the LA Times bestseller list.  This work underscores the significance of execution in achieving business success, drawing heavily from her personal experiences and lessons learned. It was not just a manual for aspiring entrepreneurs but also a deeply personal account of her journey, offering actionable insights for anyone looking to turn ideas into reality. Her second book, Jump: Dare to Do What Scares You in Business and in Life, published in 2021, pushes her philosophy even further. In this empowering guide, Perell challenges readers to confront their fears, take risks, and embrace change to unlock their full potential. The book combines practical strategies with motivational anecdotes, serving as a roadmap for navigating uncertainty and achieving success. Whether it’s pivoting careers, starting a business, or making a major life change, Perell’s advice resonates with individuals ready to step out of their comfort zones. Perell’s entrepreneurial acumen extends beyond her books. As the founder and CEO of 100.co, an AI-driven platform revolutionizing brand and product development, she continues to innovate and redefine industry standards. Her involvement as a co-creator of brands like @drinkjuni and @cayskin further highlights her versatility and creative vision. These ventures reflect her ability to identify market gaps and deliver solutions that resonate with consumers. As an investor, Perell has funded over 100 companies, demonstrating her commitment to fostering innovation and supporting emerging businesses. Her role as a mentor and investor has made her a key figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, where she empowers others to pursue their dreams with confidence and clarity. Her insights, often shared as a top 50 keynote speaker, emphasize the importance of execution, adaptability, and taking calculated risks. Despite her demanding professional life, Perell remains deeply rooted in her personal values. As a proud mother of four, she exemplifies the balance between career success and family life. Her ability to seamlessly integrate her roles as an entrepreneur, investor, author, and mother underscores her belief in the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. Kim Perell’s story is not just about achieving success but also about inspiring others to dare greatly. Her books, businesses, and speeches serve as catalysts for change, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions and overcome their fears. In a rapidly evolving world, her insights on adaptability, resilience, and execution are more relevant than ever. Kim Perell’s legacy is one of courage, vision, and impact. Through her work, she has empowered countless individuals to take the leap and transform their lives. Her latest book, Jump, is a testament to her belief in the power of bold decisions and serves as a guide for anyone ready to embrace the unknown. For those looking to rewrite their narratives and create their own success stories, Kim Perell’s journey offers a powerful reminder: the only way to soar is to jump.

Are Consumers Ready to Abandon Cash Entirely? By Marina Ezzat Alfred Tucked away in the labyrinthine heart of London, a quirky little shop called Tech Haven was quietly disrupting the staid world of retail.  Its proprietor, a visionary named James Carter, a man whose enthusiasm for technology bordered on the evangelical, had a singular, almost quixotic goal: to banish cash from his establishment entirely. Think of it as a retail Luddite rebellion, but with Bitcoin instead of pitchforks. James, you see, was a true believer in the gospel of digital currency.  He saw it, not as a fleeting fad, but as the inevitable future of finance; a future he was determined to usher in, one gadget at a time.  So, in 2018, he took the plunge, a leap of faith that would either make him a pioneer or a pariah. He ditched cash completely, Cold turkey. Initially, the response was, shall we say, lukewarm. Many customers, creatures of habit clinging to their crumpled fivers and ten-pound notes, were less than thrilled. It was like trying to convince a flock of pigeons to abandon their bread crumbs for gourmet quinoa. But James, ever the tenacious entrepreneur, pressed on. He implemented a comprehensive digital payment system, encompassing everything from Apple Pay to the more esoteric realms of Ethereum and Bitcoin. He even sweetened the deal, offering enticing discounts to early adopters of this brave new financial world, a clever carrot to entice the hesitant. Slowly but surely, Tech Haven morphed into a magnet for tech aficionados and crypto-curious individuals alike. James, a natural teacher, began hosting workshops, demystifying the often-intimidating world of digital payments. He painted a vivid picture of the benefits: the speed, the security, the sheer convenience, making the transition seem less like a technological leap and more like a logical progression. As more customers embraced the cashless nirvana, sales, predictably, took off like a rocket. By 2021, Tech Haven wasn’t just surviving; it was thriving. James’s audacious gamble had paid off handsomely. The store was not only profitable but had also become a beacon of inspiration for other businesses in the area, proving that sometimes, a radical departure from tradition can be the key to unlocking phenomenal success. His story serves as a compelling case study, demonstrating the transformative power of embracing technological innovation and the potential of digital payments to reshape the British retail landscape. It’s a testament to the power of a single person’s vision to change the world, one digital transaction at a time. Any Risk? The writing’s on the wall, or perhaps more accurately, on the smartphone screen; cash, it seems, is on its way out. Five leading financial experts recently weighed in on this seismic shift in how we handle money, and their perspectives paint a rather consistent picture. It’s not just a gradual fade-out; these folks see a full-blown paradigm shift. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a financial analyst at Global Banking Insights, puts it succinctly: younger generations are ditching cash faster than you can say “Venmo.” She argues this isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a fundamental cultural change, driven by the irresistible allure of mobile wallets and tap-to-pay systems. Think of it like the transition from rotary phones to smartphones; a complete overhaul. Mark Thompson, CEO of FinTech Innovations, adds another layer to this evolving narrative. He posits that the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a powerful accelerant, catapulting digital payments into the mainstream. Suddenly, the germ-ridden bill in your pocket felt less appealing than a contactless payment, and that shift in perception, he claims, is irreversible. It’s like discovering a better mousetrap once you’ve experienced the ease and safety of digital transactions, going back to cash feels… well, archaic. Lisa Chen, an economist at the Institute for Future Finance, brings a global perspective to the discussion. She highlights the emergence of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and cryptocurrencies as game-changers, pushing traditional cash further to the periphery. Governments and financial institutions, she argues, are actively embracing this digital revolution, leaving cash in the dust. It’s a race to the future, and cash is lagging. James Patel, Head of Payment Solutions at Digital Bank Group, takes a more pragmatic approach, focusing on the sheer inefficiency of cash-based systems.  Maintaining ATMs and processing physical currency it’s all incredibly resource-intensive.  Digital solutions, on the other hand, offer streamlined efficiency and significantly lower costs. From a purely logistical standpoint, cash is unsustainable in the long run. It’s like comparing a horse-drawn carriage to a high-speed train; one is undeniably superior in speed and efficiency. What Moves Us? The death of cash? It’s not quite that dramatic, but the decline is undeniable, a slow, steady fade-out driven by a confluence of factors. Think of it like a perfectly orchestrated symphony, each instrument: technology, consumer preference, government policy, playing its part in this grand, cashless composition. Let’s start with the conductor: technological advancements. Smartphones, those ubiquitous pocket-sized computers, have become digital wallets, seamlessly integrating payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay into our daily lives. Swipe, tap, done. It’s quicker than brewing a decent cup of coffee. This ease of use is infectious, spreading like wildfire. Then there’s the e-commerce explosion. Online shopping, a behemoth of modern commerce, simply demands digital payments. Trying to send a cashier’s check with your online order? Good luck with that.  The convenience, the speed, it’s a no-brainer. The COVID-19 pandemic, a global unwelcome guest, inadvertently accelerated this shift. Suddenly, the humble banknote felt germy. Contactless payments became the safer, smarter option, a trend that’s stuck around like a persistent, though welcome, houseguest. Governments, too, are playing their part, often nudging businesses toward cashless systems with tax breaks and incentives.  It’s a bit like offering a carrot instead of a stick, encouraging adoption rather than forcing it. For businesses, the shift is a win-win.  Handling cash is a logistical headache, including security, storage, and transportation; it all adds up.  Digital payments streamline operations, cutting costs and freeing up resources. It’s like swapping

Navigating the New Frontier How Digital Money is Redefining the Economic Landscape By Marina Ezzat Alfred The digital revolution has radically transformed how we conduct transactions, hasn’t it? Digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, the luminaries of the crypto universe, are driving this change, promising quicker transactions and enhanced security. Unsurprisingly, many traditional retailers have embraced this trend, integrating digital currencies into their payment systems. The result? Increased sales and the cultivation of a fresh, tech-savvy customer base, often described as a “digital gold rush” for forward-thinking businesses. Take Overstock, for instance. This retail pioneer didn’t merely experiment with cryptocurrency; it embraced it wholeheartedly. Accepting Bitcoin payments proved to be a strategic masterstroke, significantly boosting sales and attracting a new demographic of technologically adept consumers. It was a seamless fusion of cutting-edge technology and traditional commerce. But the impact of digital currencies extends far beyond revenue generation. They serve as a catalyst for innovation, paving the way for unique shopping experiences. Envision loyalty programmes powered by blockchain or personalised discounts delivered securely via digital wallets. The possibilities are as expansive as the digital landscape itself. This article explores how digital currencies are transforming retail sales, highlighting exceptional examples and their broader influence on the digital economy. We’ll delve into why this isn’t just a fleeting trend but a profound shift in the way commerce operates, a pivotal moment in retail history. The story is as compelling as it is dynamic, continuing to evolve right before our eyes. The Next Step Towards a Cashless Society? Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are the latest innovation reshaping global finance, sparking both excitement and debate. Essentially the digital evolution of traditional money, CBDCs offer unprecedented potential for financial systems. A 2021 World Bank study underscored both the opportunities and challenges of this emerging technology, revealing a complex yet promising outlook. The adoption of CBDCs has been remarkable, with nations across the globe embracing the concept to strengthen their financial systems. Consider their potential to include the financially marginalised, granting even the unbanked access to essential services. It’s a transformative step towards levelling the economic playing field and providing financial equity. Beyond inclusion, CBDCs promise significant efficiency gains. Transactions become lightning-fast, costs drop dramatically, and cross-border payments are simplified, eliminating the complexities of traditional methods. It’s a revolution for international commerce, making the process smoother and more accessible. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted another critical role for CBDCs: emergency financial response. By enabling rapid distribution of government aid, they proved invaluable in economic crises, ensuring funds reached those in need swiftly and efficiently. However, the path to widespread adoption is not without challenges. Security and privacy remain paramount concerns, with the spectre of digital fraud looming large. Establishing robust regulatory frameworks is equally essential to prevent missteps and ensure stability. Building this digital infrastructure is akin to constructing a skyscraper – the foundation must be rock solid before anything else. Views and Predictions CBDCs are the subject of lively debate among economists, much like the internet in its infancy – full of potential but with its trajectory still uncertain. Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff views them as revolutionary, predicting smoother, more inclusive payment systems bolstered by improved security. Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England, envisions CBDCs as stabilising forces, counterbalancing the volatility of private digital currencies. He likens them to a sturdy anchor in the unpredictable seas of modern finance. Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz highlights the crucial role of CBDCs in providing a viable alternative to private currencies, enhancing central banks’ ability to implement effective monetary policies. It’s a finely tuned instrument for economic management, offering precision and control. Meanwhile, former US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner argues for the necessity of CBDC adoption to modernise the American financial system. For him, it’s a strategic upgrade to stay competitive in an increasingly digital global economy. A Global Policy Shift in Action Countries worldwide are diving into the world of CBDCs, each taking a unique approach tailored to their financial landscapes. China’s Digital Yuan stands out as a trailblazer, undergoing extensive trials across multiple cities. The Bahamas’ Sand Dollar, the world’s first fully launched CBDC, set a benchmark in digital innovation. Nigeria’s eNaira prioritises financial inclusion, while Sweden’s E-krona aims to reduce reliance on physical cash with a minimalist and efficient design. Ecuador’s Dinero Electrónico took bold steps to overhaul its financial system, while Russia’s Digital Rouble is part of a broader modernisation effort. France’s collaboration on the Digital Euro represents a pan-European initiative, showcasing the power of international cooperation. Similarly, Canada’s Digital Dollar and Brazil’s Digital Real exemplify progressive exploration into this transformative technology. These diverse initiatives reflect the global appetite for digital currencies, underscoring their potential to reshape economies. Each project adds a unique flavour to the evolving landscape of global finance. What Does the Future Hold? The digital currency landscape is rapidly shifting, with CBDCs poised to take centre stage. The momentum behind their adoption is accelerating, driven by technological advancements and the evolving needs of global finance. CBDCs promise a smoother, more efficient user experience. Transactions will be instantaneous and seamless, revolutionising everyday financial interactions. Additionally, they are likely to spur innovation in areas like decentralised finance (DeFi) and AI-driven services, unlocking new possibilities and driving economic growth. Perhaps most significantly, CBDCs have the potential to bolster national economic competitiveness. Faster transactions and reduced costs translate to more dynamic economies, providing nations with a crucial edge in the global marketplace. The future of CBDCs is undeniably bright, offering transformative benefits across inclusion, efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. As we stand on the cusp of this revolution, the next few years promise to redefine the very fabric of global finance.

Romi Allata  Entrepreneurial Visionary in Beauty, Fashion, and Lifestyle By Afef Yousfi Roumaissa Allata, known to many as Romi Allata, has established herself as a notable figure in the realms of makeup, fashion, travel, and lifestyle. Residing between Germany and France, she has seamlessly merged her cultural influences with her entrepreneurial flair to carve out a distinctive presence in these industries. As the Founder and CEO of RowabyRomiAllata, she has demonstrated an exceptional ability to transform her passion into a thriving business, reaching audiences on a global scale. Romi’s digital journey began with her authentic and engaging content on social media, which quickly resonated with a wide audience.  Her Instagram account, boasting over 2.2 million followers, serves as a platform where she shares everything from beauty tips and fashion advice to glimpses of her travel experiences. Her ability to connect with her followers in a genuine and relatable manner has not only bolstered her influence but also laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial ventures. At the heart of her achievements is her brand, RowabyRomiAllata, a venture that epitomises her creativity and business acumen. The brand, designed in Germany and offering worldwide shipping, is a collection of stylish and high-quality fashion pieces that cater to modern tastes. It has quickly gained popularity, attracting a significant following and maintaining impressive engagement levels. The ethos of the brand reflects Romi’s personal style while also aligning with the preferences of her audience, creating a sense of exclusivity and relevance in a competitive market. Romi’s success is a testament to her entrepreneurial skills and innovative approach. Her business strategies focus on quality, authenticity, and leveraging the power of social media to build a loyal customer base. By combining her keen eye for fashion with an acute understanding of branding, she has ensured that every aspect of her business resonates with her followers and clients. Her journey from a content creator to a successful businesswoman illustrates the importance of resilience and adaptability. Romi’s ability to balance her roles as a public figure and a CEO is remarkable, as she continues to inspire others with her creativity and determination. She has become a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating that it is possible to turn personal passions into meaningful and impactful careers. Looking ahead, Romi is determined to take RowabyRomiAllata to even greater heights. Her vision includes expanding the brand’s presence in global markets, ensuring her designs reach an even broader audience. Beyond business, she remains committed to empowering women, encouraging them to pursue their ambitions with dedication and confidence. Romi Allata’s story is a powerful example of how passion, innovation, and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements. From her beginnings as a digital influencer to her ongoing success as a business leader, she continues to inspire countless individuals with her journey. Her ability to connect, create, and lead has solidified her place as a key figure in the modern landscape of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. To explore her brand and its offerings, visit RowabyRomiAllata online.

Inoki BathHouse Tea and Herbs Bath Experience By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili Inoki Bathhouse is a home spa experience made for those who struggle with daily life pressure or simply want to enjoy the luxurious life of putting themselves first. It’s a brand made with tea and herbs created by Helen Yin, a strong woman who suffered for years from depression and anxiety and who was raised  by her devoted working mother in a wonderful culture, Japan, China. Helen used natural power for healing both her physical and mental health.  Many drink tea for its health benefits or just to relax, but not all people bathe with tea. The skin is the largest organ in the human body and, according to science, anything applied to skin will be absorbed and goes to the blood stream and the smallest cells will feed on it. Drinking hot tea and herbs can help the body heal fast and stay calm and when you take a long hot relaxing bath with tea and herbs the healing process will be multiplied. The body and spirit will enjoy its marvelous effect of healing. Hot water with the beautiful, calming and natural scents of herbs like lavender and jasmine pearl tea  will calm the nervous system and, by that, the brain will wave all the stressful emotions and anxiety. It even helps people with insomnia to sleep longer hours and the natural medicine of herbs will cure physical illness such as chronic pain in muscles, bones, nerves and each cell in the body. Stress levels will decrease, and a healthy brain will heal the illness in the physical body. “This bath changed my life! At the peak of my career running an innovation consultancy, I went through a challenging two-year period of depression and anxiety. In my lowest moments, I often thought back to my childhood in Asia, where family visits to bathhouses brought relief and renewal. These bathhouses used healing teas and herbs that calmed the mind, lifted the spirit, and rejuvenated the body. When I looked for products to recreate that experience at home, I found nothing authentic—so I was inspired to create Inoki Bathhouse. I founded Inoki to offer the world’s most exceptional bathing experiences, deeply rooted in heritage and tradition, bath ritual to bring healing, relaxation, and tradition back into modern self-care.’’ Helen Yin. Fresh natural herbs and teas from its original lands are combined in an eco-friendly packaging with relaxing designs similar to luxurious spas around the world all in one box, making for the most relaxing home spa experience.  Not only that does she use the old authentic ways of old civilizations that combined the scenes of hearing, smelling, touching, taste, she added a music list to an app made for her brand to enjoy relaxing spa music while bathing or guiding meditations by her friend’s calming voice to help relax and reduce stress to heal perfectly. Each big box comes with 3 small candles from natural soy wax without perfumes and lavender to add to the candles.  Also, it contains a tea bag for drinking and the types and flavors are different in each box  due to its experience ”Mountain Fog-Ancient Forest-Ethereal Garden-Nordic Lagoon” and recently she launched the royal tea different flavors for drinking. These types are to enjoy the taste of relaxing. And, a small cotton bag to add all the bath ingredients of herbs and tea to hot water in the bathtub to sit and enjoy the healing power of nature. The details and care input in these packages all started in a small apartment where Helen lived with her husband who was and still the great support in her life, who believed in her vision and witnessed her struggles. The apartment became a large office for a company that ships people and spas worldwide. All the boxes are handmade with the richest ingredients on earth. The personal experience and struggle of Helen Yin, the co-founder and owner of this brand, led her business, vision and products to touch thousands of hearts across the world.  She used the power of herbs that rejuvenated the body and spirit for millions of years and transformed her pain into a recognized brand that heals thousands of people suffering from physical and mental pain. A story made about the hard times of Covid-19.

ELIANE AL HAJJREDEFINING MODEST FASHION WITH ELEGANCE AND PURPOSE By Afef Yousfi Eliane Al Hajj, a prominent media consultant and founder of the Medium agency, is a dynamic force in the world of media and communications. With an impressive portfolio of clients spanning media, music, fashion, and film, her journey reflects an extraordinary blend of creative disciplines, including journalism, theater character design, cinematic special effects, and alternative medicine. Known for her holistic approach, Eliane’s career path is deeply inspired by her love for the arts, spirituality, and commitment to positive change in society. Reflecting on her journey, Eliane explains that her diverse experiences have been foundational to her work. Her early days in journalism and radio built the flexibility and confidence that now help her collaborate effectively with creative artists. In all her projects, she emphasizes the human element, aiming to support artists not only in growing their careers but in finding personal fulfillment. Founded in 2012, Medium agency stands as a testament to Eliane’s 15 years of experience in the media world. Initially, the idea of a public figure requiring a full advisory team faced resistance, but Eliane’s vision has since evolved into a leading agency model in the Middle East and Africa. Her philosophy is to shield artists from unnecessary distractions so they can focus on honing their talent. Through her agency, Eliane and her team have introduced a new paradigm in artist management that prioritizes both career growth and personal well-being. Eliane has cultivated long-standing professional relationships with figures like SALXO, Universal Arabic Music, and Elyanna by emphasizing shared values and mutual respect. According to her, the most successful partnerships occur when both the artist and the agency align in terms of values and goals, allowing each to grow collaboratively and with integrity. Eliane’s approach to media consulting is deeply influenced by her background in alternative medicine. A Reiki master and advocate of positive energy, she brings spiritual insights into her work, helping clients unlock their potential. Raised in a family that valued spiritual awareness, she applies her Reiki training to guide artists through personal and professional challenges. This integration of energy work allows her to connect with clients on a unique level, fostering a nurturing environment for them to overcome fears and fulfill their dreams. Her commitment to humanitarian work is another central aspect of her career. Following the Beirut port blast, she spearheaded two campaigns to support her fellow Lebanese, raising over $1.2 million in just 24 hours for the Global Aid for Lebanon campaign, with backing from stars like The Weeknd and French Montana. Another memorable campaign, Ana Beirut, involved auctioning a dress by Lebanese designer Naja Saade, which raised over $82,000. For Eliane, this work reflects her profound dedication to her homeland, bringing together the power of her network for a cause she holds close to her heart. Through her involvement in media projects like Stars on Board and Al Hayba, Eliane has learned to navigate public criticism and high expectations, especially when introducing bold new ideas in uncharted territories. Developing marketing strategies for these high-profile projects has taught her the importance of resilience and adaptability, even when facing controversy. As a coach, Eliane tailors her methods to the unique needs of each client. She believes in building genuine, trusting relationships, taking care to choose clients who are ready for her hands-on approach. Representing multiple artists while ensuring each one receives the personalized attention they deserve is a challenge Eliane takes seriously, as she aims to make a lasting impact on every artist’s journey. Eliane stays ahead of industry trends by embracing fresh ideas and valuing input from young talents, including artists like Rayan Hayek and Issam Al Najjar. She believes that adopting an artist’s vision and refining it is essential for reaching new audiences, making Medium a standout agency that listens and adapts to emerging creative voices. In advice to aspiring media professionals in the MENA region, Eliane emphasizes the importance of authenticity and the responsibility that comes with being a medium for truth. Having spoken to media students at Azm University, she encourages future industry leaders to maintain self-awareness and remain true to their mission to illuminate truth in their work. For Eliane, authenticity is the key to building a meaningful, impactful career in media. Eliane Al Hajj’s journey is a powerful example of commitment, resilience, and empathy. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her desire to inspire positivity and growth in her clients, has shaped her agency, Medium, into a beacon for the next generation of artists. In a world where media has a profound impact, Eliane stands as a transformative figure, spreading light, wisdom, and hope across the industry.