The Open Crate is a digital art platform launched by Amina Debbiche, a Tunisian art specialist and Nora Mansour, originally from Lebanon who previously worked with leading art and design entities like Art Basel and Carpenter’s Workshop Gallery. In this episode the two co-founders share how The Open Crate grew from a printed catalog into a private, global platform that secures provenance, organizes collections, and opens access to context, education and insight on the art market in the MENASA region without compromising privacy. We explore themes of trust and resistance, the importance of heritage preservation through documentation, motherhood and entrepreneurship, fashion’s overlap with art, and The Open Crate's roadmap to future-proof archives.A few topics covered in this episode are:• Founder backgrounds from finance to cataloging• Why Dubai and the region needed digital structure• Turning point with a major Iranian collector Mohamed Afkhami• Privacy, trust, and resistance to online archives• Traits that win clients and sustain growth• Complementary roles and building while parenting• Art, fashion, design, and lifestyle as one ecosystem• Vision for Open Crate Lab and AI provenance• Training the next generation of art specialists• Routines that protect focus, energy, and creativityIf you'd like to learn more follow The Open Crate on Instagram and as always, if you enjoyed this conversation, please share it, leave a review, and stay tuned for more curated voices from across art, fashion, and culture on The Curation Podcast hosted by Nour Hassan.Support the show

In this episode Nour takes you behind the veil of the glamorous life of a content creator, from weekly invites to VIP events, to opportunities that are diverse and varied, so does one choose what to show up for? Nour dives deep into the art of saying "no" as a strategy for alignment, credibility, and brand longevity. We share why selective choices build trust, how to decline without guilt, and a real example of Nour walking away from a nostalgic invite to protect the vision.• saying no to create space for aligned work• how declines shape brand edges and perception• audience trust versus short-term cash and clout• simple scripts to say no without burning bridges• self-trust and the power of selective presence• a personal example of turning down a past partner• scarcity, credibility, and showing up with meaningMake sure to follow @TheCurationPodcast on Instagram, @NourHassan, and @PilatesbyNour to stay tuned on all of the content that is available, as well as The Curation Podcast on all podcasting platforms and @the.curation on TikTok. Support the show

Nour Hassan shares her journey from growing up in Saudi Arabia to building The Curation, a platform celebrating art, fashion, design, and culture across the Middle East and beyond.• Born in Jeddah to an Egyptian family with Saudi roots, attending the British International School that shaped her worldview• Credits her international school experience for teaching critical thinking and instilling values of unity, diversity, and acceptance• Early creative passions included art, magazines, and creating collages that foreshadowed her future career• Chose to attend university in Egypt rather than London to reconnect with her Egyptian heritage• Studied architecture before switching to mass communication, with additional education at UCLA• Founded "Radical Contemporary" in 2018 to highlight young regional creatives, later rebranding to "The Curation"• Built a career as a stylist, creative director, producer, and writer featured in Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Vogue, and Forbes• Values being niche rather than mass market: "I am for those who get it, for the intellectuals and the girls who want to be smart"• Believes we're in "the era of curation" where personally selecting what defines you is essential• Morning wellness habits include waking up early once weekly and delaying coffee intake• Despite her social professional persona, values alone time for reading, thinking, and strategizingMake sure to follow @theCurationPodcast on Instagram, @NourHassan and @PilatesbyNour to stay updated on all available content, as well as The Curation podcast on all podcasting platforms and @The.Curation on TikTok.Support the show

Nour Hassan shares her journey from growing up in Saudi Arabia to building The Curation, a platform celebrating art, fashion, design, and culture across the Middle East and beyond.• Born in Jeddah to an Egyptian family with Saudi roots, attending the British International School that shaped her worldview• Credits her international school experience for teaching critical thinking and instilling values of unity, diversity, and acceptance• Early creative passions included art, magazines, and creating collages that foreshadowed her future career• Chose to attend university in Egypt rather than London to reconnect with her Egyptian heritage• Studied architecture before switching to mass communication, with additional education at UCLA• Founded "Radical Contemporary" in 2018 to highlight young regional creatives, later rebranding to "The Curation"• Built a career as a stylist, creative director, producer, and writer featured in Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Vogue, and Forbes• Values being niche rather than mass market: "I am for those who get it, for the intellectuals and the girls who want to be smart"• Believes we're in "the era of curation" where personally selecting what defines you is essential• Morning wellness habits include waking up early once weekly and delaying coffee intake• Despite her social professional persona, values alone time for reading, thinking, and strategizingMake sure to follow @theCurationPodcast on Instagram, @NourHassan and @PilatesbyNour to stay updated on all available content, as well as The Curation podcast on all podcasting platforms and @The.Curation on TikTok.Support the show

Ready for a seasonal transformation? Just as the leaves begin their magnificent shift, your habits can experience a beautiful reset too. After finally embracing a true summer break—eating whatever I wanted and skipping workouts without guilt—I'm now craving structure again. It's that delicious contradiction of human nature: we need both freedom and framework to thrive.This episode walks you through my seven-step F/W reset plan that guarantees you'll enter the New Year feeling physically refreshed and mentally prepared. From rediscovering movement that truly brings you joy (hint: consistency trumps intensity) to the remarkable benefits of morning journaling using Julia Cameron's "Morning Pages" technique, each strategy builds upon the next. Follow @thecurationpodcast on Instagram and @the.curation on TikTkok for more xSupport the show

What does it take to document a cultural renaissance? Rebecca Anne Proctor never planned to become a journalist, yet her natural curiosity and love for writing led her to the forefront of Middle Eastern art and cultural reporting during its most transformative period.Growing up between America and Italy with an artist mother and writer father, Rebecca's global perspective was shaped early. After completing studies in art history and Middle Eastern Islamic studies, a weekend trip to Beirut sparked a love affair with the region that turned a planned two-year stay into a 17-year immersion. Her timing couldn't have been more fortuitous – arriving just as major museums were opening, Christie's was establishing its Dubai presence, and regional art publications were emerging.From her first unpaid article for Business of Fashion to becoming Editor-in-Chief of Harper's Bazaar Art Arabia and Harper's Bazaar Interiors Arabia, Rebecca's journey reflects the region's own cultural evolution. She witnessed firsthand the establishment of the Mathaf Museum of Modern Arab Art, the reopening of cinemas in Saudi Arabia, and the dramatic shifts in how art and culture are supported across the Gulf.The conversation takes a particularly fascinating turn when Rebecca discusses co-authoring "Art in Saudi Arabia: A New Creative Economy" – the first comprehensive book about contemporary Saudi art during the kingdom's social transformation. She reveals the delicate balance required to present Saudi artists on their own terms while addressing Western concerns about art-washing and freedom of expression. "I was feeling frustrated because I thought reviews weren't really giving Saudi artists and creatives a real chance to speak and be visible on their own terms," she explains.Rebecca's career advice, born from her background as a trained ballerina, resonates beyond journalism: persist through challenges, maintain self-care practices, and remain open to unexpected opportunities. Now dividing her time between Rome and Dubai, her story exemplifies how building bridges between cultures can create something truly extraordinary. What cultural shifts are you witnessing that deserve deeper storytelling?Follow @rebeccaanneproctor on Instagram for more.Support the show

We've stopped being original, and it's time to get our uniqueness back. This episode explores how to break free from the clone culture that's making everyone look the same and reclaim your authentic personal style.• The problem of "copy-paste" culture where everyone wears identical fashion items and adopts the same aesthetic• How constant social media exposure erodes our ability to form independent style opinions• The importance of carefully curating who you follow on social media platforms• Using saved folders instead of following accounts to maintain your independent perspective• Spending time shopping alone to discover what you genuinely like without outside influence• Cultivating fearlessness and being unapologetic about your personal style choices• Why originality will ultimately become your edge in a world of samenessDon't forget to follow @TheCurationPodcast and stay tuned for all of our future episodes, as well as at @NourHassan and at @PilatesbyNour, for all of my content.Support the show

What does it mean to create spaces where people truly live, not just exist? Eng. Mohamed Edris, the visionary behind Mabany Edris, shares how his journey from construction engineer to pioneering developer has transformed Egypt’s landscapes—from Sheikh Zayed to Ras El Hekma.Driven by the joy of turning empty desert into thriving communities, Edris builds with purpose: medical facilities, logistics hubs, and residential compounds designed around real needs, not fleeting trends. His landmark projects include ASAYLA, the first compound in the renowned Asyut area of Southern Egypt—launched during the pandemic—and KOUN in Ras El Hekma, a bold embodiment of the “be your natural self” concept that’s redefining the North Coast experience. At the heart of his work lies a commitment to credibility: completing projects before starting new ones.Through bold moves and deep community insight, Edris proves that real estate is not just about bricks and cement—it’s about building human experiences.Visit our YouTube channel to watch the full interview on The Curation Podcast or Mabany Edris's page, or listen on your favorite podcast platform.Support the show

Ready to transform your life but feeling overwhelmed by endless social obligations and digital distractions? This episode reveals the counterintuitive secrets to genuine personal growth that nobody talks about.The most powerful life upgrades often come from what you subtract, not what you add. Discover why "leaving early" has become my personal mantra and how the LIFO method (Last In, First Out) has revolutionized my approach to professional events. You'll learn why protecting your social battery isn't selfish—it's essential for creating the mental space needed for meaningful work and personal development.In this solo episode, I share the counterintuitive strategies that helped me truly level up—starting with why subtraction, not addition, leads to growth.From leaving events early (my “LIFO” method) to curating a digital space that serves your vision—not your social circle—you’ll learn how to protect your energy, master deep work, and say “no” without guilt.We’ll talk boundaries, phone-free rituals, finding movement you love, and clearing out anything—or anyone—that drains you. If you’re ready to reclaim your time, focus, and personal power… this episode is for you.Follow @thecurationpodcast for more!Support the show

Authentic curation stands as a revolutionary act in a world drowning in sameness. What began as an intentional practice of selecting and editing life's experiences has morphed into a misunderstood buzzword—thrown around by brands without truly grasping its essence. But true curation runs deeper than aesthetic choices; it's about discernment, individuality, and the courage to express genuine opinions.Growing up with parents who naturally curated everything from home décor to conversational topics, I developed an early appreciation for intentionality. This foundation revealed itself as invaluable in our current digital landscape, where algorithmic recommendations and influencer culture have created a disturbing phenomenon: people becoming indistinguishable clones of one another. The future belongs to voices with actual perspectives rather than those chasing viral moments. As social media evolves, audiences will gravitate toward curators who offer thoughtful selection rather than endless content. We're entering an era where personality matters again, where having taste and discernment will differentiate the voices worth following. My vision for curation extends beyond products to curating perspectives, ideas, and ultimately, a way of living that honors individuality.I added a concise pre-summer essentials curation for you guys at the end!Stay tuned for more on @thecurationpodcast. Support the show

Welcome to a captivating journey through the intersection of wellness and technology at Art Dubai 2025. This episode delves deep into these two defining themes that are reshaping not only the fair but Dubai and the broader region.Our first conversation features Olga Donica, Clinique La Prairie's Longevity Innovation Director, who redefines our understanding of longevity as something far more profound than merely extending lifespan. "Aging is indeed a gift from all points of view," Donica explains, unveiling how the future of wellness integrates physical, mental, and social health through non-invasive technologies. Taking us further into the AMAALA vision, Lindsay Madden-Nadeau, Senior Director Wellness Strategy Red Sea Global, shares how this ambitious 4,200-square-kilometer development is becoming "the most comprehensive health and wellness destination in the world." The episode then shifts to the technological frontier with kinetic artist BREAKFAST, whose mesmerizing moving sculptures respond to real-time environmental data. "I don't want to be trapped in screen world," he explains, describing his mission to bring digital capabilities back into physical space through works engineered with the durability of satellites rather than consumer devices. Our final conversation features Alina Krot, founder of 10101 Arts, who's revolutionizing art ownership through tokenization of masterpieces by Picasso, Warhol, and others. This innovative approach democratizes access to blue-chip art while fulfilling a deeper human need for connection to history and meaning. Subscribe now to explore these fascinating intersections of wellness, technology, art, and culture that are shaping our collective future. Special thank you to the team at Secnewgate. Support the show

The art world thrives on connections – between artists and institutions, across cultures, and through the passionate individuals who dedicate their lives to fostering creative dialogue. Dr. Princess Alia Al Senussi stands as perhaps the quintessential example of this connective power, described by Hans Ulrich Obrist as "the ultimate junction maker" in the global contemporary art scene.As we dive into this fascinating conversation, Dr. Al Senussi takes us through her journey from being a "third culture kid" of Libyan and American heritage to becoming one of the most influential figures in international art circles. Without any social media presence – a rarity in today's hyperconnected world – she has established herself as a crucial bridge between regions, institutions, and artistic communities through sheer persistence, genuine curiosity, and an unwavering belief in art's power to transcend boundaries.Her professional evolution from Art Basel's UK and MENA representative to Senior Advisor International Outreach reveals the delicate balance between professional dedication and personal passion that drives meaningful cultural exchange. Perhaps most revealing is Dr. Al Senussi's account of her involvement with Saudi Arabia's cultural renaissance. Despite encountering prejudice from colleagues who "absolutely didn't even want to hear that there were artists in this country," her persistence in highlighting the kingdom's vibrant creative community has helped transform global perceptions. Her co-authored book, "Arts in Saudi Arabia: A New Creative Economy," stands as a testament to this commitment.For those aspiring to similar paths, her advice is refreshingly straightforward: "You need to engage, you need to be persistent, and you need to show up." In an industry built on relationships and in-person connections, there's simply no substitute for being physically present where art happens. Whether you're pursuing curatorial work, arts administration, or cultural diplomacy, follow Dr. Al Senussi's example – be "everything everywhere all at once" in your passionate pursuit of artistic connection.Support the show

What happens when a fourth-generation Syrian American decides to revive and reimagine classical Arabic music traditions from New York City? Faraj Abyad takes us on a mesmerizing journey through the microtonal landscapes of Tarab and Maqam theory while breaking industry norms with his original compositions.Raised in a household where the legendary recordings of Sabah Fakhri played alongside his formal studies in jazz and Western music, Abyad developed a unique musical identity that bridges cultural worlds. As he explains, "I found that microtones in this music kind of took me to a state of Tarab or took me to a state of ecstasy that we can't find in Western music." This fascination with the emotional power of Arabic music theory became the foundation for his compositional approach.Unlike many contemporary Arabic musicians who primarily cover the works of icons like Um Kulthum or Fayrouz, Abyad is dedicated to creating new classical Arabic compositions. We wpeak about him recording at New York's legendary Power Station Studios and working with The Originals and Oswalds Mills Audio.The conversation reveals fascinating details about his album cover featuring Jawad Salim's rare painting "In the Presence of the Caliph" (unseen in color for 70 years) and his upcoming performance at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Listen now to discover how Faraj Abyad is creating new pathways for classical Arabic music in the modern world—and why his work matters for the future of this rich tradition. Follow @thecurationpod and @hunaliving for more conversations exploring the intersection of art, culture, and innovation.Support the show

Scent has a powerful ability to transport us through time and space, evoking memories with just one breath. In this riveting conversation with Yasmin Khalil, founder of KŌDO London, we unlock the secrets of luxury home fragrance that honors both indulgence and wellness simultaneously.Yasmin reveals how her Lebanese heritage and interior design background converged to create something truly revolutionary: decadent, food-inspired home fragrances that are potent and non-toxic. After discovering that conventional fragrance products can contain up to 4,000 hidden chemicals (many linked to serious health concerns like hormone disruption and reproductive issues), she set out to create a clean alternative that sacrifices nothing in luxury or scent experience.The magic of KŌDO lies in its gourmand inspirations—think dark chocolate espresso, matcha vanilla coconut, and caramelized citrus—all crafted to evoke those special moments throughout our day. Yasmin walks us through how scent can transform spaces and moods, sharing her personal rituals for morning energizing, workout preparation, and evening unwinding.Visit KŌDO London for more and to check out their mini sets available now!Support the show

A powerful conversation unfolds at Art Dubai 2025 as three visionary women share their journeys through the evolving landscape of arts education in the UAE. Dean Janet Bellotto of Zayed University, artist-educator Afra Al Dhaheri, and artist-founder of Medaf Studio Alia Hussain Lootah reveal the transformative potential of creative learning while challenging traditional pedagogical approaches.Their personal stories illustrate remarkable transitions—from financial accounting and PR studies to pioneering artistic practices—highlighting how educational interventions can dramatically alter life trajectories. The dialogue explores how community-building sits at the heart of effective arts education.Most compelling is their vision for the future—arts education that embraces performance, climate resilience, and interdisciplinary approaches. Alia's work with children emphasizes creative freedom. As Janet concludes, growth comes from "working alongside different generations" within an ecosystem where everyone both teaches and learns. For more on each speaker visit @afra_aldhaheri, @aliahlootah_ and @Janet Bellotto. This episode is in collaboration with @hunaliving. As part of A.R.M. Holding, HUNA redefines elevated living through lifestyle-focused communities that blend artistry, design, and sustainability. This episode was filmed LIVE at @artdubai 2025. Support the show

Nour Hassan dives into the universal struggle of imposter syndrome, sharing personal stories and actionable strategies to overcome self-doubt and fully own your worth.• Understanding imposter syndrome as a sign of growth rather than inadequacy• Normalizing these feelings by recognizing they affect even the most accomplished individuals • Creating a "confidence file" to document achievements and positive feedback for moments of self-doubt• Learning to separate feelings of inadequacy from the factual evidence of your capabilities• Taking action without waiting to feel completely ready or prepared• Embracing your unique perspective as something no one else can bring to the table• Recognizing that your authentic voice is your greatest assetIf not now, when? And if not you, then who? Follow @thecurationpod and @NourHassan on Instagram to stay updated on all our content and future interviews.Support the show

An exclusive interview with Lana Sawiris, an Egyptian entrepreneur, creative director, investor, Backgammon fanatic, and true NYC girl at heart. On her milestone 30th birthday, Lana reflects candidly on finding her footing outside of her famous family name and building a career entirely on her own terms.Lana details her journey from Egypt to New York, where her determination led to major roles at streetwear giant KITH and eventually to founding &Lana, a "Creative Incubator" that is transforming how brands and agencies interact and co-create. Her impressive client roster includes Sartiano's at The Mercer, The Corner Store, Gstaad Guy, CHIMI, Cherry St Tropez and even Pharrell Williams. The conversation delves into the complexities of growing up in the spotlight, as Naguib Sawiris's daughter, and the significance of maintaining privacy and loyal friendships to keep you grounded in a social media world. Perhaps most revealing is her latest venture: a members-only Backgammon app born from personal obsession, perfectly capturing the duality of her personality – the strategic businesswoman with an old soul who finds joy in play. Through it all, Lana's drive remains remarkable, insisting her journey is just beginning. Lana never does podcasts so that makes this episode even more special. Make sure to check out @andlana for more. Follow @the.curation.pod to keep up with upcoming episodes!Support the show

From construction engineer to environmental researcher to destination visionary — Ibrahim El Missiri's career path defies conventional trajectories while offering profound insights into what makes extraordinary destinations thrive. As the CEO of Soma Bay Red Sea, El Missiri worked on the transformation of a stunning Red Sea peninsula into one of Egypt's premier destinations through strategic vision, innovative placemaking, and a deep understanding of both social and financial capital.The conversation reveals how El Missiri's diverse background shaped his approach to development. His early work on iconic projects like the Four Seasons Giza laid a foundation in construction, while his environmental studies funded by a hard-won British scholarship (after three years of rejection) instilled principles of sustainability. His master's degree in Built Environment from UCL introduced him to placemaking concepts that would later define Soma Bay's distinctive character.What truly distinguishes this interview is El Missiri's fascinating perspective on "social capital" versus "financial capital" and how relationships form the true currency of success in Egyptian business. After years working internationally, he recognized that maintaining strong local networks was crucial, explaining his decision to return to Egypt despite promising opportunities abroad in companies such as Dubai World and Expo 2020. Today, Soma Bay hosts music festivals and international events such as Narrative PR Summit, bring ing together indouals form across regions and disciplines to come together on the Egyptian Red Sea peninsula of Soma Bay.Support the show

Meet Mai Galal, the visionary stylist who has revolutionized Egypt's fashion landscape through her extraordinary career spanning decades. Far from an overnight success, Mai's journey began with a needle and thread at age eight, crafting homemade outfits for her Barbie dolls and transforming orange peels into artistic expressions. That same creative spirit would eventually lead her to style Egypt's most prestigious event in recent history – the globally televised Pharaohs Parade.In our conversation, Mai opens up about navigating her "double life" – balancing the glamour of high-profile styling with the grounded reality of motherhood. She shares intimate details of her morning routine, which transformed after a health scare forced her to become more present and mindful in her daily life. Rather than following trendy 10-step skincare routines, Mai swears by what she calls "ancient Egyptian remedies" – olive oil, black seed oil, and simple traditional approaches that have stood the test of time.Mai has styled everyone from iconic Egyptian stars Mona Zaki, Youssra, and Angham, to Amina Khalil, Nelly Karim, Yasmin Sabri and more. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Watch the full episode on YouTube here.Support the show

In this episode we speak to Anne Mehany, co-founder of Maison Mehany a multidisciplinary creative house. We explore Anne's extraordinary journey from a young girl captivated by fashion to a leader in the Egyptian luxury design scene. Driven by passion, her inspiring story unfolds through layers of personal loss, including the death of her father at age 21, and the journey she endured while discovering her path in the challenging world of fashion production. Anne invites us into her world of aesthetic storytelling, where each project is approached with a fresh vision and dedication to excellence. With upcoming projects that include a skincare line and a personal photography book, along with her love for Pilates, Anne is continually pushing boundaries while remaining rooted in her core values. Maison Mehany has worked with major international clients such as EMAAR and Jean Paul Gautlier, as well as numerous features in notable media such as Numèro, Harper's Bazaar Arabia, and BDon't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Watch the full episode on YouTube here.Support the show