LEBANON: Google Doodle Honours Lebanese Doctor Saniya Habboub

Medical pioneer was one of the first women from the country to study abroad.

The life of doctor Saniya Habboub is being celebrated by Google’s Doodle on Friday, commemorating her graduation from medical school on June 10, 1931.

Born in 1901 to a Lebanese leather merchant and Turkish mother, Habboub was one of the first female doctors from Lebanon to study medicine abroad, in the US.

When she returned to Beirut she opened her own practice, inspiring other Lebanese girls and women to get an education of their own, according to Google’s description.

In 1926, Habboub was one of the first three students to graduate from the American Junior College for Women in Beirut, going on to study at the American University of Beirut.

In 1931, she received her degree in gynaecology and obstetrics from the Women’s Medical College in Pennsylvania and, in gratitude, left future students with a scholarship in her name.

She started her own practice two years later, in Bab Idriss, and went on to co-found the Lebanese Red Cross Association, as well as served as a board member for the Muslim Orphan’s Home, the Young Women’s Muslim Association and Maqassed Hospital.

In 1982, in honour of her devotion to medical services, the Lebanese government awarded her with a Health Medal of Merit, and there’s even a street in Beirut named after her.

Habboub died aged 82 in September 1983.

“Dr Saniya was an inspiring figure who paved the way for future generations of women to come,” Google says.

Dr William Stoltzfus, former president of Beirut University College, described her life as a “get-started signal” for the professional lives of many Arab women, according to AlRaida, the bi-annual journal published by the Arab Institute for Women.

The Doodle can be seen on devices across the Middle East and North Africa.

source/content: thenationalnews.com

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Dr Saniya Habboub died in 1983 aged 82. Photo: Public Domain

Google Doodle of Dr Saniya Habboub. Photo: Google

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LEBANON

Lebanese Designer Alexandra Hakim using Natural Resources to make Jewelry

Lebanese designer Alexandra Hakim has revealed her natural approach to her sustainable jewelry brand.

The mastermind behind the label Alexandra Hakim, told Arab News that she started the brand as a student, finding inspiration from materials in her studio such as sandpaper and matchsticks in ashtrays.

The jewelry maker tried to recreate the elements and turn them into wearable sparkly jewels to give each item a “different and completely unique touch.

She said: “I made my first collection at school based on matchsticks and I found beauty in the way that they are consumed every time in different ways. I took those fragile wooden pieces and I tried to transform them into earrings and create unique pieces of playful earrings and necklaces.”

Hakim also speaks to local workers in Lebanon to support different crafts.

“I have talked to fishermen, farmers, and different craftsmen about their work, and I try to integrate it into mine. So, for example, I would take any rubbish that a fisherman I met called Bob would find in his nets – because there is barely any fish left in the sea today. So, I made a collection based on that.

“I also used pearls to make the connection between the rubbish from the sea and the jewels,” she added.

Describing her brand as a mix of luxury and contemporary jewelry, Hakim said: “I feel like my brand is about inclusivity, sustainability. It’s about making jewelry that is good for the planet. It’s about limiting waste and making women and men feel empowered.”

One of her most recent collections, the “Good Karma Capsule,” was based on horoscopes.

“I asked people around me from different backgrounds and places if they wanted their portraits taken depending on their horoscopes. So, I found a Scorpio, a Gemini, and it all kind of came together.

“People felt so empowered wearing their horoscope and felt like the earrings were a lucky charm and a token of positivity,” she added.

www.alexandrahakim.co

source/content: arabnews.com

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BRITISH / SPAIN / LEBANESE

Lebanese Grand Master Fadi Al-Andari Wins ‘Arab Innovation, Excellence Cup Award’

World Champion Grand Master Fadi Al-Andari, receives the Cup of Arab Innovation and Excellence for the year 2022 in Cairo – an atmosphere filled with patriotism and international cooperation between Arab brothers, in order to consolidate human values. Under the supervision of the Afro-Asian Federation of Modern Cinema and the participation of the Arab Federation for Lebanese Physical Culture and the Royal Crown Club, in cooperation with the Middle East Institute for Development, Consultation and Development and the International University for Creativity and Human Sciences in accordance with the standards of the international program.

A group of distinguished and influential personalities in the Arab world were honored, within the framework of the great conference that was held at the Civic Education Center building at the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Cairo, in the presence of the best distinguished personalities in the Arab world: Professor Fawzi Al-Khodari, President of the Arab Federation for Physical Culture, Ibrahim Khalil Sharara, the Lebanese Consul, representing the Lebanese Embassy in Cairo.

They honored the Lebanese World professional Champion Grand Master Fadi Al- Andari, the legend in Muay , who was called “The Miracle of Sports, and who won the Innovation Cup and the Golden Medal of Excellence for 2022.”

Fadi Al-Andari won the title of “The Legend” in “Muay Thai” after his victory in the second round by “knockout” over the Thai player “Piset” who was half his age, also andari was suffering from a broken leg in the first round.

He was called the “miracle” in sports in the year 2019 after winning in a short time various awards of sports titles in natural bodybuilding that held in South Korea (WBPSF) after 24 hours of Muay Thai, WFF, martial arts and martial arts (WPKA, WML , WMO and WMF) championships. Major General Staff Harb Ahmed Zaghloul Mahran along with a group of public, artistic, sports and media personalities also attended.

They were headed by the able artist actor Samira Abdel Aziz and the journalist Abdel Rahman El Sheikh, president of the Afro-Asian Federation of Modern Cinema, Ambassador Dr. Reda Al-Senussi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Middle East Institute, Ambassador Dr. Samia Al-Sadiq, Dr. Raafat Al-Khamsawy, President of the Royal Crown Club, Dr. Dalia Al- Khodari, and Ambassador Dr. Safaa Al-Shawaf, General Coordinator of the Conference. The conference was held under the auspices and supervision of the Conference President, Dr. Ahmed Al-Shawaf, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Arab Journalists and Media Persons, and the President of the Arab Innovation and Excellence Cup Award Conference.

source/content: arabtimesonline.com

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World Champion Grand Master Fadi Al-Andari, receiving the Cup of Arab Innovation and Excellence Award.

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LEBANON

Dr. Samira Daroub – UF/IFAS Scientist Shares How Love for Learning Led to Lifetime of Teaching, International Work

Dr. Samira Daroub Ph.D. Soil & Water Scientist. Director, EREC.FL, USA.

Throughout history, women have played a key role in humanity’s scientific advancements. As mentors, innovators and thought leaders, women in science have inspired and empowered countries, communities, women and young girls with their work and knowledge.

In celebration of National Women’s History Month, Samira Daroub shares how a love for learning inspired a lifetime of teaching and research that has expanded beyond United States borders. Daroub is the second woman in 100-year-old history of UF/IFAS Everglades Research & Education Center (EREC) to take the center’s helm.

Q: What was your early life like?

A: I was born in Beirut, Lebanon. My grandfather was a farmer. One of my uncles also had a farm. I always loved math and had a constant desire to learn. I also wanted to attend a university.

My career in soil and water sciences didn’t really take shape until I was an undergraduate. It is all due to the power of teachers and mentoring, and it goes back to my first semester in college when I took a soil science class. The instructor took time to teach each lesson. I learned how it had practical application, and it was through that mentorship and others that I gained a love for this applied science.

That is a life lesson that I took to heart and have paid that support forward ever since. It is my goal to  serve as a mentor for every student, rising faculty member or researcher who I encounter throughout my career.

Q: Where did you pursue your undergraduate and graduate degrees and in what fields?

A: I earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and a diploma in agricultural engineering from The American University of Beirut in Lebanon. I later obtained my master’s degree in soil sciences there. For my Ph.D. in soil chemistry, I attended Michigan State University on a full scholarship awarded by the non-profit Hariri Foundation-Lebanon.

Q: Tell us about your life at UF/IFAS?

A: I arrived at UF/IFAS in 2000 as an assistant professor of soil and water sciences where I conducted research and taught classes both at EREC and at Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. I later became a professor and the distance education coordinator in the department of soil and water sciences.

I have been teaching classes in soil sciences, soil chemistry and environmental nutrient management as part of the undergraduate and graduate distance education programs. I also advise distance education students pursing non-thesis master’s degrees in the environmental science track at UF.

As a researcher, I focus on environmental issues related to soil and water quality. I specialize in the development and implementation of best management practices (BMPs) to reduce phosphorus leaching in soils and ultimately prevent it from entering surface waters in the Everglades in south Florida. A second research focus is on the sustainability of organic soils and agriculture in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA). A third focus is on international development aimed on building individual and institutional capacity in India and Middle East in soil health and water resources.

I established a nationally recognized research and Extension program for the development of best management practices to improve water quality as part of a comprehensive effort for Everglades’ restoration in Florida. I offer in-person and online best management practices workshops and have always been committed to providing Extension and outreach activities to local area growers

I later became interim center director of EREC, until February this year when I was appointed as center director.

Q: You have conducted extensive international educational and research work. Tell us about it.

A: My journey in international research and education started when I was a postdoctoral fellow at Michigan State University with Dr. Joe Ritchie. I visited national and international research centers in Colombia, Brazil, Syria, Kenya and Hungary for collaboration and data acquisition to be used in crop modelling.

My international education experiences include teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate international students. I have mentored interns, visiting scholars and Borlaug fellows from Brazil, Honduras, Costa Rica, India and Iraq. The scholars were trained for laboratory and research techniques and introduced to sustainable practices in South Florida agriculture and water management. I have conducted research in India, as well as educational projects and capacity building workshops in India, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon and Egypt. 

At UF/IFAS, I have always been interested in international research and educational projects to share and gain native knowledge into soil and water management and online learning. I have collaborated with Sandra Russo at the UF International Center on various educational projects in the Middle East. Effective mentoring is a big part of what I do for local and international scholars. I have always taken an approach to advising and mentoring that allows students and postdocs opportunities to strengthen their interpersonal skills and technical competence, while also developing leadership skills and confidence.

Q: What words of inspiration would you give to other women and girls as a mentor and leader in your field?

A: Education is key. Never stop learning. Lean on family, peers, educators and supporters to succeed. A support system is vital. 

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. ifas.ufl.edu  |  @UF_IFAS

source/content : bocaratontribune.com

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Samira Daroub

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AMERICAN / LEBANON

Sammy Clark, Acclaimed Lebanese Singer Versatile in Arabic and English

Sammy Clark (aka) Sami Clark (aka) Sammy Hobeika.
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Clark is most recognised for singing the opening credits for the children’s cartoon Grendizer which was popular in late ’70s to ’90s.

In 2018, Clark performed a rearranged version of the song with Emirati composer Ihab Darwish alongside the Beethoven Academy Orchestra.

“To celebrate 40 years since Grendizer aired in the Arab World, I dedicate this special rearranged medley to all who enjoyed this iconic animation. Together with Sammy Clark with his heroic voice and timeless performance, with his words cheering for our Space Robot Grendizer defending Earth from attacks by intergalactic invaders, I give you this masterpiece to enjoy your childhood memories,” Darwish wrote at the time of sharing the new musical arrangement of the track.

Sammy Clark passed away in Lebanon, on Sunday, February 20th, 2022.

source/content: thenationalnews.com (edited for space)

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The life of Lebanese singer Sammy Clark, who performed in Arabic and English, was celebrated by fans on social media. Photo: Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi
Photo: Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi / thenationalnews.com

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LEBANON

Natasha Karam, Lebanese Heritage, Hollywood Actress

Natasha Karam (aka) Natacha Karam. Film Actress. Hollywood Actress.

Born in Saudi Arabia to a Lebanese father and a Northern Irish mother, actress Natacha Karam is making a name for herself in Hollywood as a character on “9-1-1 Lone Star,” the latest series created by multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winning writer Ryan Murphy.

Born in Jeddah, Karam grew up between Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain and Dubai, where she began acting. 

After moving to Los Angeles, her television career kicked off with small acting stints on “Homeland” and “Silent Witness,” before she was cast as Sergeant Jasmine “Jaz” Khan in the military action drama series “The Brave,” which ran for one season.

The 27-year-old acts alongside the likes of “Lord of the Rings” actress Liv Tyler and “Aladdin” star Mena Massoud, who plays her fiancé. 

source/content: arabnews.com

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The drama follows the heroics and personal lives of firefighters and other emergency responders. (AFP) / arabnews.com

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BRITISH / ARAB-EUROPEAN

Nobel Prize for Medicine Awarded to US scientists David Julius and Dr. Ardem Patapoutian : October 04th, 2021

Dr. Ardem Patapoutian. Lebanon born US Scientist.

Lebanese-Armenian scientist Ardem Patapoutian is one of the two winners of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discoveries of receptors for touch, heat and bodily movement

Two scientists who made landmark discoveries about human senses, have won the Nobel Prize for Medicine, beating vaccine pioneers to the prestigious award.

Announcing the winners after balloting behind closed doors on Monday, the Nobel jury said the US duo had broken open a “fundamental unsolved question” about human biology.

Dr Patapoutian, who was born in Lebanon in 1967 and moved to the US as a young man, works at Scripps Research in La Jolla, California. He identified genes that control sensitivity to touch.

The proteins he discovered also play a role in how people sense motion and how the body deals with blood pressure, respiration and bladder control.

He said his research had shone light on fundamental human behaviour which many people rarely question. “In science, many times, it’s the things that we take for granted that are of high interest,” he said

Nobel prize winner Ardem Patapoutian was also awarded Lebanese Order of Merit.

Dr. Patapoutian, who was born to an Armenian family in Beirut, Lebanon in 1967, came to the United States in 1986. “I fell in love with doing basic research. That changed the trajectory of my career,” he said in an interview with the New York Times. “In Lebanon, I didn’t even know about scientists as a career.”

source/content: thenationalnews.com

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pix: youtube.com / Scripps Research

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USA / LEBANON

Lebanese Film ‘Costa Brava, Lebanon’ starring Nadine Labaki Wins Netpac Award at Toronto Film Festival : September 2021

Lebanese film starring Nadine Labaki wins Netpac award at Toronto Film Festival.

‘Costa Brava, Lebanon’ is director Mounia Akl’s debut feature.

Lebanese director Mounia Akl has won the Netpac award at the 2021 Toronto International Film Festival for her debut feature Costa Brava, Lebanon.

The film, which stars Lebanese actress and director Nadine Labaki and Palestinian actor Saleh Bakri, premiered at the Venice Film Festival earlier this year.

Costa Brava, Lebanon follows the story of the Badri family, led by Soraya (played by Labaki) and Walid (played by Bakri), who have escaped the toxic pollution of Beirut to set up a new home in the mountains, only to find the government has turned the land next to their new home into a dump site.

The Netpac award is an annual award presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema to the best film from Asia that has premiered at Tiff.

Last year, the award was won by Palestinian twin brothers Tarzan and Arab Nasser for Gaza Mon

www.mouniaakl.com

source/content: thenationalnews.com

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pix: mouniaakl.com

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LEBANON / USA

Lebanon’s Ray Bassil – World Class Medal Winning, Trap Shooter

Ray Bassil (aka) Ray Jacques Bassil.

Won her first title at age 15, Female Arab Championship, Algiers.

  •  First and only woman ever to represent the Arab countries in Trap Shooting at the Olympic Games in Rio 2016
  • First Arab Woman to compete in 2 Olympics games and win 3 consecutive world cup medals
  • Twice represented Lebanon at Olympic games (2012, 2016)

Other Honours:

  • UNDP – Youth and Gender Goodwill Ambassador

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pix: fondationsaradar.org

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LEBANON