#MEETTHEMEDIA Antara Bose

Antara is the co-editor at www.barizaoman.com and a presenter for the Times of Oman. When she’s not ghost busting, she’s dreaming of unsolved ancient mysteries… Who you gonna to call?

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

I’ve always enjoyed writing pieces on beauty and fashion as well as heritage and culture, but I’m currently focusing on pieces on travel. Apart from that, I regularly cover auto and lifestyle-related stories.

Describe one of the wackiest proposals/ideas you’ve been sent.

‘Write about the top 3 haunted places in a specific city, but it has to be a first-hand experience.’ The publication was worth it, but number three on the list made me realize my life was probably more precious.     

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

A good narrative with some relatable humor is always a good read. I also like stories that are informative, insightful, and leave you with an after-thought.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

It has to be a story that I wrote on Wadi dogs. Apart from that I truly enjoyed working on a piece that delved deep into Oman’s Frankincense trail.  

Tell us about your dream assignment.

This might be a little far-fetched, but I’d love to work on a project like Unsolved Ancient Mysteries.

Where did you grow up?

I was born in the bustling city of Kolkata but grew up in sunny Oman

How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

I had a knack for storytelling (thanks to my incredibly patient grandparents) and I eventually started writing stories. From stories to reviews and finally, I had a column in the local newspaper.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

Trying to finish my novel.

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

I’m a ‘sit-by-the-ocean-with-my-dogs’ person, and fortunately, Oman has an abundance of beautiful beaches!

Tell us a little about yourself.

As a free-spirited writer at heart, I thrive on an innate desire to pen down eclectic muse. Whether it's capturing the essence of a moment or diving deep into intriguing topics, I'm fueled by a passion to explore the unconventional. From local heroes to influential thought leaders, I've interviewed a number of people. While I've made my mark in sectors like lifestyle, travel, and auto, there's a part of me that's irresistibly drawn to the mysteries of crime and the supernatural. Besides that, I take delight in sprinkling facts on offbeat subjects and remain inherently biased toward any animal lover.

You can catch up with Antara on Instagram – @antarabose, LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/antarabose/, and online at – www.barizaoman.com.

#MeetTheMedia Vinod Nair

Meet Vinod Nair, a Senior Content Writer and Online Editor at the Oman Daily Observer. He writes about Economic Development, Industry News, Community and Public Affairs. When not writing, you can find him sipping tea in one of Muscat’s outside cafes.

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

Climate change, tourism and aviation.

Describe one of the wackiest proposals/ideas you’ve been sent.

Not really, or maybe, or not. But I will support any such proposals :-)

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

As a career journalist with nearly 25 years of experience, for me confirming the facts is the most important aspect of any new report. This is because the average reader who views my reports has put his faith on my reputation, my style of presenting facts and my access to reliable network of sources.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

As a professional journalist, we often end up as a news-generating machine, which at the end of means nothing because of its shelf value. But there are some reports, which is a result of weeks and months of follow-up, networking and due to the trust and confidence that your sources have in you. In today's world of social media, anyone can take your report and present it as his or her own, without giving any credit. But that in itself is something we can be proud of.

Tell us about your dream assignment.

An access to a world event and get to something of the leaders who matter in today's world to tackle important crisis and issues, which can impact adversely generations to come, if not ours.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Mumbai, which for me is one of the safest cities of the world considering its demographic and geographical size. No city in the world is perfect and ideal, but for Mumbai is certainly one of the underrated cities of the last few decades.

How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

I got into journalism by choice, and not accident. Luckily, for me I had the right persons at the right time to guide me and offer the breaks that I need at the time. We didn’t have a family background, but my parents extended all the support and the resilience that one needs while waiting for the first break or going through the intial struggles.

What would you have been if you had not ended up in journalism?

I did not have the Plan B at that time. But If had not moved to the gulf in early 2000s, I would have been a different journalist with a different focus.

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

I prefer outdoor seatings and any type of tea.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I don't like to judge people at one go, but it is difficult to change my opinion once I judge someone. Travel in growing years was restricted to Mumbai and family visits. Over the past 20 years, I got some fair opportunities to see places and meet people. I wish to continue that for the rest of my life, regardless as part of the work or not.

Connect with Vinod here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinotnair18/

#vinodnair #oman #gulfjournalist

#MeetTheMedia Anita Joseph

Meet Anita Joseph, as Editor of two of the Middle East's best read publications - Reseller ME & Security ME, as well as the popular website Tahawultech.com, Anita is responsible for planning, sourcing and producing content across all three verticals.… and more importantly - she makes chocolates…

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

My focus is on pioneering narratives that resonate with the future. From leading-edge contributions to the digital economy and cybersecurity/cyber enterprise advancements to emerging technologies such as AI shaping sustainable practices in Industry 4.0 & 5.0 landscapes, I navigate the evolving terrain, seeking stories that redefine innovation and societal impact. Today, I am actively engaged in narratives that bridge technological prowess with environmental consciousness, ensuring a sustainable and ethically-driven digital future. As a journalist, I am committed to propelling these narratives forward, driving meaningful change in the tech sphere.

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

As a journalist, I believe that a compelling narrative should present a clear and balanced account, backed by credible sources and evidence. Embracing diversity in perspectives and ensuring ethical reporting are paramount, as are elements of conflict and resolution that resonate with the people, fostering a deeper connection.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

I've been fortunate enough to report on stories of human courage and resilience in the face of conflict. My journalistic career has allowed me to encounter first-hand, raw human emotions-sorrow, desperation, vulnerability, hope and strength. Through these narratives, I've grown as a human being and as a journalist-I'm proud of every story that I've ever crafted.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

Writing poetry, teaching the English language and/or making chocolates.

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

Nobu & Zuma (Dubai), Myazu (Riyadh) - Japanese cuisine is a way of life.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I find joy in simplicity, recognizing beauty in the small things that often go unnoticed. My preference leans towards substance and depth over superficial trends. I appreciate the power of a good laugh and admire hard work and dedication. I find genuine joy in the company of children, recognizing their unfiltered honesty and unbridled curiosity as a source of inspiration. Challenges excite me, offering opportunities for growth and self-discovery. I hold honesty, respect, and commitment in high regard, considering them fundamental pillars in any meaningful relationship. Travel is not just a journey; it's an exploration of cultures, landscapes and the richness of human experience. A connoisseur of both food and fitness, I understand the delicate balance between indulgence and well-being. I'm drawn to bright colors that reflect the vibrancy of life, and good music serves as the soundtrack to my diverse experiences.

Catch up with Anita here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitajoseph25/

#MeetTheMedia Aman Dhami

Meet Aman Dhami, a Senior Content Manager who worked for one of the biggest published groups in the UAE - ITP Media Group. Aman managed the content at ITP Live and working as a freelance Content Manager at Harper's Bazaar Arabia. She talks about Fashion, Celebrities, and Lifestyle.#amandhami.

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

I am interested in both style and substance – sustainable fashion! In a world facing climate change and environmental threats, I see this movement as more than just a trend, but a beacon of hope. I foreshadow new social media platforms coming out this year or more focus being on short-form video content. Hopefully, social media will be a powerful tool to amplify the sustainable movement, echoing the growing chorus of voices demanding a better and more greener future.                      

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

Choosing stories becomes a treasure hunt because of the vast amount of articles that are uploaded daily. Amidst the fleeting trends and ephemeral voices, I like to seek gems that resonate, and that carry weight for myself and the wider world.        

What story or stories are you most proud of?

Thousands of words have flowed from my pen, but it’s the echoes of human experiences that resonate with me and inspire us all. Life stories from any individual are interesting and spark a curious flame. I enjoy listening and delving into the kaleidoscope of perspectives, to understand how threads of success and failures weave into the magnificent tapestries of individual lives. Therefore, the stories I would be most proud of, are the ones where I can interview others on their journey to success.

Tell us about your dream assignment.

I would like to become a conduit, channeling the wisdom and experiences of remarkable individual's to inspire others on YouTube. I envision myself as a storyteller, not just chronicling facts, but capturing the essence of their journey, the fire in their eyes, the lessons etched in their scars. I really enjoy the video podcast: Diary of a CEO.       

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the UK - born in a little town called Rainham in Essex.

 How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

Back in school, I enjoyed English Lit and Creative Writing. I loved playing with words and crafting stories. When it came to choosing a university subject, Fine Art caught my eye, but my family wasn't sold on its job prospects. So, I stuck with what I knew and did English Literature and Creative Writing. Funny thing, Mum used to shout at me for never having a book in hand, and now my apartment's practically a library! My other big love was fashion. I used to binge-watch Ugly Betty with my sister, dreaming of that whole glamorous magazine world. Now living that dream. I believe that you can get what you want by visualising things and focusing on the end goal - everyone should have a vision board by now!      

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

…constantly trying to think of ideas to do more so I can better my life for myself and my family. With the type of creative person I am, routine is so important for me so that I stay focused. I ensure self-love/self-care is part of my routine now as well as putting my business hat on so I leave a legacy behind. I have two career goals and one of them has already been achieved.         

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

There is one place where my partner and I love to go at the end of a working week and it’s Mongolian Hot Pot in Dubai Marina. It’s not a “bling” place in Dubai, but somewhere we can put our sweats on and relax with good food. We normally talk about our week and if our friend joins us, then we always discuss business ideas or opportunities like knights at the round table.    

Tell us a little about yourself.

That could take a while, so to sum myself up in one sentence, I am a pick ‘n’ mix bag of sweets. Someone asked me what quality I like about myself. I wasn’t sure until I spoke to a friend at work who said, “You have empathy towards people and that’s very rare to find.” The conversation went on, but it made me think that I do enjoy learning about everyone. I don’t pick and choose who to be friends with, who to talk to, or who to sit with. Everyone is welcome at my table.   

Just like a pick ‘n’ mix bag, follow Aman via her social media accounts to see her lifestyle content and on Linkedin for trends, insights and inspiration:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/aman.dhamii

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/amandhami

Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialamandhami

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@amitandaman

#MeetTheMedia Manju Ramanan

Meet Manju Ramanan. The TedX Speaker and a journalist with over 22 years of experience.

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

I interview Bollywood, Arab, and Pakistani film stars, but human interest stories fascinate me.

Describe one of the wackiest proposals/ideas you’ve been sent.

For the Dubai Women’s Run in 2017, I got 55 women to run 5kms in red cotton handloom sarees.

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

To explore people’s reservoirs of courage and how they handle crisis. They could be unscathed and proud, burnt but wise, damaged but kind.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

Shahrukh Khan, Raha Moharak, spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravishankar , Hopemaker Ahmed al Falasi, Autistic musician Ahmed al Hashemi and my coffee table book on HH Sheikh Saqr al Qassimi, late ruler of Ras al Khaimah.

Tell us about your dream assignment.

To integrate my vast experience in 2 countries, India and UAE, to narrate stories (print, podcast, YouTube, website). To work where I am respected and valued and earn a good remuneration for my commitment.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Baroda, Gujarat, in India.

How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

In 2000, the next day after my father’s death, The Times of India called me to Ahmedabad for an interview, and they didn’t show up. When the act was repeated, I wrote an angry letter to the editor. The team came to my city and offered me the job.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am… writing books and interviewing people

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

Farzi, Mint Leaf of London and Tiptara.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a proud mom, Ted X speaker, passionate journalist and saree hoarder.

Connect with Manju here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manju-ramanan-56069b4/ or catch her on IG / FB @manjuramanan.

#MeetTheMedia Lisa Imogen Eldridge

Meet Lisa Imogen Eldridge. Her rally cry is maximum adventure, minimum impact.

Lisa, tell us about yourself.

I am a travel journalist and an award-winning travel blogger. Since the age of 21, I have been traveling, working and living abroad. And have lived in several countries including Australia, Colombia, Spain and Dubai. My aim is to visit every country in the world in my lifetime and I hope that I can achieve this goal.  

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the south of England; in a small seaside village with a dream to become a journalist and learn more about society and the rest of the world. 

How did you get your start in the media?

At the age of 31 I completed a degree in magazine and newspaper journalism and worked for free for 2 years in my spare time, building up my writing portfolio. I then pitched to a travel website and landed my first paid assignment. Since then I have been published in various magazines and travel websites and am proud of what I have achieved. 

What story or stories are you most proud of?

Eleven years ago, I created Girl about the Globe, an award-winning blog for conscious solo female travellers, empowering women to travel solo and helping vulnerable girls about the globe. I’m really proud of the brand and community that I have created and I recently won the Travolution, Champions of Content award for my blog!

My mission is to educate and entertain people and show them a different side of the world through my writing. I travel the world visiting local projects and writing about issues affecting vulnerable girls in the country. I’m most proud of my story on visiting a refugee camp in Lebanon. 

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

If I am not reporting, I am travelling to emerging destinations, learning more about the countries and meeting the locals. Living in the UAE gives me the opportunity to see more of the Middle East and promote these countries to solo female travellers who may feel intrepid about travelling to them alone. And it means that I am close to my favourite landscape; the desert.

What’s next?

My dream is to create a non profit organisation to help provide hope and trauma care to children affected by conflict. I am currently in the process of this and excited about my vision for 2024.  

Connect with Lisa here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girlabouttheglobe/

#MeetTheMedia Rob Chilton

Meet Rob Chilton.

I’m a journalist, copywriter and broadcaster with 25 years’ experience in London, New York and Dubai. I started in showbiz journalism which was relentlessly competitive, fun and very addictive. After taking a year-long career break in my mid 30s – which I spent backpacking around the world –  I moved to Dubai and accidentally ended up writing in the luxury sector, which I love. I’m very lucky in that my work never feels like work.

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

I cover anything and everything in the lifestyle sector, which means watches, cars, food and drink, travel, fashion, hotels, grooming, plus some sport - all the fun stuff. When you’re writing about luxury, I think it’s important to uncover the story behind the expensive object. It’s very easy to be distracted by the shiny thing and forget the amazing skill, knowledge, history, and craftsmanship that has gone into making it.

Describe one of the wackiest proposals/ideas you’ve been sent.

“Come and try an ice bath with some sound healing.” Ice bath, no thanks. Sound healing, I was intrigued.

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

Since I started in journalism in 1997 I was always taught one simple thing: what’s the story? Finding an angle has remained the starting point for any work I do. Basically, it all boils down to whether this a story you’d rush to tell your mates in the pub, or one that’d you tell at a dinner party. Is it interesting? Is it surprising? Is it thought-provoking? If it’s an interview, I have to like the person if it’s going to create a good article. The easiest – and quickest – stories to write are ones that come from the heart. I love it when stories just fall onto the page.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

I honestly still get a thrill to have anything published. I never cease to be amazed that people pay me money to write things in magazines and say things on TV and radio. Writing for the likes of GQ, Esquire and Harper’s Bazaar is an honour but my career highlight so far was having three stories published in Time magazine in 2022, something I plan to bore my grandchildren about when I’m an old man.

Tell us about your dream assignment.

The assignments that sent me abroad are the ones that stick in the mind. A classic car show in India with Cartier, driving an Aston Martin around Monte-Carlo, trying on Audemars Piguet watches in Tokyo, and a luxury detox cleanse in Bali were amazing. Interviewing Jessica Simpson in her hotel room in New York was pretty memorable, too. If any commissioning editors are reading this and they need someone to spend a month in California on a gastronomic road trip, I am available.

Where did you grow up?

Reading, England. Also the birthplace of Kate Winslet, Kate Middleton and Ricky Gervais (that’d be a good dinner party).

How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

I did unpaid work experience at loads of magazines in London for about a year in 1997 - before mobile phones. Then somebody suggested I go see Ian Abbott on the news desk at TV Times magazine. We had a chat and got on well. I asked him if he wanted to see my CV, he laughed and said, ‘See you Monday morning.’ After a few months of work experience there, he gave me my first job and set me on my way.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

Reading books, watching movies, listening to Led Zeppelin or Massive Attack depending on my mood, drinking tea and eating too many biscuits, swimming, getting a haircut, spending time with my daughters which usually involves swimming, doing jigsaws, reading books and making scrambled eggs (not all at the same time).

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

My wife and I love going to Mythos in JLT for a cosy dinner. Tashas on Al Wasl Road is also a family favourite, as is Señor Pico on Palm West Beach. For a special treat, I never get tired of going to LPM, Cipriani, Zuma, Mimi Kakushi and Il Borro. The most beautiful place in Dubai? Without doubt, The Arts Club.

Tell us a little about yourself.

The first thing people tend to notice about me is that I’m tall - six foot five. I’m English, an Arsenal fan, an optimist, I love talking to people and asking questions.

Find out more about Rob here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-chilton-3bb30531/.

#MeetTheMedia Mario Volpi

Meet Mario Volpi.

I’ve been writing about real estate for the last 15 years in the Emirates, mainly discussing stories from Dubai where I give my take on any breaking story or a real estate trend. My experience helps me to give my opinion, which often helps the reader make up their mind, especially if the story is about a specific project.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Southwest London, UK arriving from Italy after my father got a job in the aviation sector.

How did you get your start in the media?

In 2013, I was approached by The National newspaper to write a property column called Homefront where I would answer real estate related questions, especially about renting in Dubai. This I thought was a gig that would last 3 to 6 months at best, in fact 10 years later, the column is still going strong and I’m still busy informing residents of their rental rights both for tenants and landlords, in fact any real estate scenarios including sales information on future projects or technical questions regarding the sales process too. In addition to my column and other articles written over the years, you will find my dulcet tones on the Dubai property podcast which I appear in six times a month. This is an informative podcast that I have been contributing to since January 2023. I also regularly contribute to radio shows such as the Business Breakfast, Afternoons with Helen Farmer and The Agenda all on Dubai Eye 103.8 FM.

What do you do when you are not reporting?

If I’m not reporting, I’m advising on REAL ESTATE to my 100 strong team.

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

My favourite place to hang out is JBR. I call it the centre of the universe. Real Estate is all I know, I’m currently the Senior Director at AX Capital and work out of the Media city office in Concord Tower.

2024 will be a special year for me as this will be the 40th anniversary of me being in Real Estate!

Connect with Mario at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-volpi/.

#MeetTheMedia Heba Hashem

Meet Heba Hashem.

What types of stories are on your radar now?

At the moment, I’m covering the developments at COP28, the UN climate summit in Dubai. I’ve also just written about how universities in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar are addressing sustainability.

Describe one of the wackiest ideas you’ve been sent.

I was once asked by Aston Martin magazine to interview a Bedouin “horse whisperer” who lived in the UAE desert. So I drove out there and met the man. He was sophisticated, well-travelled, and chose to settle in the peace of the desert. And he had an extraordinary ability to quickly tame and train even the wildest of horses.

What elements do you look for in a story?

A great interview is at the heart of every great story. To do that, I try to have a candid conversation. I’m genuinely interested in where they come from, how they made it, and what keeps them up at night. Plus, lots of facts and figures to add credibility to the piece.

What stories are you most proud of?

I feel lucky to have interviewed many remarkable people over the years, including the UAE’s Minister of Energy Suhail Al Mazrouei; English actor Dev Patel, who shot to fame with Slumdog Millionaire; and Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan, a member of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family and a contemporary artist, at her palace. They were all down to earth and immensely inspiring.

Tell us about your dream assignment.

I’d be overjoyed to write about the Greenlandic Inuit, the indigenous people of Greenland. I’ve been there three times and have a special connection with this place.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up between Cairo, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. Now I live in Canada.

How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

Magazines have always fascinated me. The visuals, features, everything. I did my BA in media and communications at Middlesex University, obtained a freelance license from Dubai Media City, and started freelance writing. Of course, it wasn’t that simple. At first, I offered to write for free and before you know it, I was getting paid.  What I love most about freelancing is that I’m forever learning about all sorts of topics, from nuclear energy to cosmetics to hospitality. There’s no limit. I also get to meet incredible people.

Favorite places to hang out?

Anywhere with a stunning view and a vegan menu!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a third-culture kid, I lived in many different places that I feel at home almost anywhere on earth.

Connect with Heba at https://www.linkedin.com/in/hebahashem/ and read her articles on https://hebahashem.com/.