Ed’s Note – October 2015

At Tempo we like to take stereotypes – and then obliterate them! This issue is no different: we have cool pioneers who lead the way and reflect our philosophy. There is Iman Al Tamimi who blew us away with her rendition of Bedouin make up – she revives old tradition, and adds her own inspiration with panache! Then there’s the Yama Fashion duo who reinvigorate old fabric prints and design socially conscious garments, all handmade in one of Dubai’s oldest quarters! Then there are the young creatives who founded the Luminary who want, through their brand, to capture the new Arab youth spirit that celebrates diversity.

Yet another pioneer is Emirati Aya Farah who smashes the stereotype of the Arab woman by deciding on a whim to follow her calling! She jumped on a plane and immersed herself in Africa – travelling to Nigerian villages and sharing her gift of art, music and involvement. Studies show that young people today are more socially responsible and aware than the previous generation, and that they believe in their individual power to make a difference. At Tempo we embrace those souls, and celebrate their spirit.

Tempo this issue shares the exciting outcome of The Smovies Season 2 short film making competition. We were there to see the amazing films produced by locally based filmmakers. From students, to pros to hobbyists, there were some really cool films, and surprisingly all of them focused on social and public good themes. The films covered everything, from the importance of conservation, to taking care of family, to being aware of how your behaviour affects those around you. The Smovies is a dynamic platform for creativity and self expression, and we extend the invitation for everyone to get involved in the most exciting competition yet: Season 3, Why I Love UAE. (And there will be more on that soon…)

As in all our magazine issues, we’re thrilled to showcase our incredible writers, who share their insights and wisdom generously, on everything from film to music to food to literature to art to poetry to gaming to social media to lifestyle – to living! We love them all, and we invite you, our readers, to tell us what you’re up to, what inspires you, and what you’d like to see more of in Tempo.

Stay happy. Be kind. Get involved.