So the COVID-19 pandemic hit us hard economically. Most of us freelancers are out of work. So I thought about highlighting the little guys that are hustling in a new concept called “Mowjood”, which means “I’m available, hire me!”
Check out everyone’s stories, expertise, and please reach out to them for work.
@sawsan_saad for Mowjood| موجود
Egyptian by blood, Emirati by heart and Jordanian in thinking best describes me. This combination made me an expert in multiple accents and languages. I am a known Tv and Radio presenter around GCC and MENA.
I started my career in 2009 with fox international channels and now in Dubai media. I am a proud 32 year old influencer also international announcer and Stadium MC. I was selected by FIFA to MC and announce the World Cup in 2018 and 2019. I also announced the AFC Asia UAE Cup 2019.
My passion includes sports, adventures, entertainment, fashion, Food as well as hosting web and TV shows.
I’ve been spending the last few weeks on online courses, Cooking new recipes, YouTube fitness stuff, and going live every day with one of my friends.
The pandemic made me change everything, the way I think, the way I do things, and also to be a better version of my self to adapt the new changes coz the big challenge is not now, it’s after corona.
I’m currently working on two movies after the pandemic that will be in cinemas. One is a comedy and the other is a thriller. I’ve also got a new Instagram show, new YouTube show called “Top Dish”, new TV show called “After Corona”, and finally, I’m working to complete my Phd in Media.
When it comes to the art world, I think a lot depends on how long this all lasts, of course,I’m an optimist in a time of crisis. Creativity was with us in the caves; it’s in every bone in our bodies. Viruses don’t kill art. But even successful artists will be pushed to the limits and I think Instagram is almost all we’ve got. I really advise artists to think globally and act locally, Of course, art will go on. That goes without saying since art is much bigger and deeper than the business that supports it. Art will vanish only when all the problems it was invented to explore have been explored.
In times like these we have to support each other by “giving”. Trust your self, believe in your superpowers, focus more on your dreams, forgive yourself and love every day. Simply live your life with passion and love and wash your hands 5 times a day.
ps. Shout out to Mohamed Saeed Hareb creator of @freejcartoon
Born on the 20th of August, Jindi began his venture into music by performing in various live venues across the UAE. The sudanese singer/ songwriter eventually formed “The J- tones” in 2014 who were mainly influenced by the sounds of 70’s funk/soul, and Motown music. Jindi has a distinct persona in the local music scene as he regularly incorporates this influence into his live performances, songwriting and production. He released his debut single “By your Side” in 2018 which was well received in the region and was often rotated on many local radio stations. This was followed by his second single “Running on my mind” – which was later included in his debut EP “1995”, released on October, 2019.
The second track off of “1995” is a Pop/Funk groove called “Dance Floor”. Originally released as a single, this track marks Jindi’s big break as it has found its way to the top 10 tracks on iTunes MENA, peaking at #2. Jindi is currently getting ready for his upcoming single release “Just A Dream” which is going to be available on all streaming platforms May 29th.
“Just A Dream” breaks down a romantic love story, the tale goes back to June of 2019 , When Jindi had a totally different idea for the song , when had written the track for the first time and realized there was something missing , everything took a different turn then .This song shows a variety in the singer’s catalogue as it incorporates a latin flavor that will get you up on your feet.
On a final note, so many creatives around the world are getting affected by what’s going on , but always keep in mind that your art can change someone’s mood , lift their spirits up. Use this as a tool to inspire other’s. That’s just a reminder of how crucial the art scene is and how it can impact others. Things will get better soon, keep on doing what you love.
My name is Fafa, I am an artist based in Abu Dhabi. These past few weeks I have been focusing on my mental and physical health by cooking and keeping active. I’ve written some music but not a whole lot and I’m okay with that.
My strategy post-pandemic is to take more opportunities and stop being scared of saying yes. I’ve learned that life really is short and I’ve got to make the most of it.
My latest project is about telling the ones you love you love them and meaning it. If we are all there for each other there we can come out stronger and happier! Tell your loved one what someone means to you and you will never live in regret wondering if they knew when it’s too late.
Regional artists I draw inspiration from are my good friends @emmacottermusic, @sachikosawah & @ibbyvk. Their art and hard work towards their goals are inspiring and I am thankful to be their friend and watch them grow.
I think people will appreciate the arts even more as it is becoming clear that it is essential. I may be totally off or dramatic but it’s like when the Black Plague happened and the Renaissance period started and creativity was overflowing and so many great artistic endeavors made an impact for the ages.
I would like to tell the world that this will pass. It’s hard on all of us but it will pass and we will be even greater than ever
1. Introduce yourself.
My name is Eman (@emanezzathelmi). Egyptian, born and raised in UAE. Performance Art has always been my dream and I believe that my whole life been bringing me closer and presenting multiple opportunities since I was 12 till the moment everything was aligned in 2019 And been lucky to be in acting workshops with big names like Khaled Galal, Jamal Sulaiman and Bayoumi Fouad.
I also very blessed being part of Arabian Radio Network family.
2. How have you been spending the last few weeks?
The highlight is that a fellow actor and myself started filming sketches about couples during the pandemic. I also learned to play the Ukulele. Some handyman work in my new place, stay in touch with people & maintaining physical activity.
3. How have you changed your strategy post-pandemic?
That I should not wait for things to come to me as an actress and even create more.
4. What’s your latest project about?
My latest project in addition to the sketches is the short movie “Expatriate”, which has been selected “Official Entry” in Emirates Short Film Festival. I’m also currently in preparation for 3 new projects.
5. Who are the regional artists you draw inspiration from? Without thinking “Soad Hosny” and “Faten Hamama” they are “Legends” in Acting and Performance Arts.
6. What do you think will happen to the art world?
I think there is a “Renaissance” in the Horizon but moving very shy and slow I hope to witness it in my lifetime.
7. What would you like to tell the world?
What I have on my Page intro;
Be KIND
Be POSITIVE
Be THANKFUL
Be ETHICAL
Be YOURSELF
Believe in YOU
Dream BIG
DREAMS do come true
It’s NEVER too late
Hello guys my name is Alba Fernández, I am an international Spanish curve model, entrepreneur, and advocate for self-acceptance and healthy living.
I am coming to Dubai back and forth during the season since 2017 but this situation changed the world and my plans. I extended my staying.
Being more at home, spending more time with myself, looking at the world from a different point of view, and getting deep inside myself are things that I’ve been doing during quarantine. And you know what? I am taking it easy, day by day. I realized that my goals and my vision are still the same but the way of reaching them could be different.
It doesn’t matter anymore where you live, the physical place, and we are more than ever millennials living in an online era.
Outside of modeling, I am working in a lifestyle project focus on healthy living and destinations and I believe online is the best way to make it happen. It doesn’t matter what you do, do it online.
I am happy to stay here and to be part of the model industry in the Middle East especially being a curve woman as I feel myself identify with the Arab women and I hope they will see on me the Spanish version of themselves.
I really love the Arab culture, there are many things to learn. I recently discovered @zaidfarouki, @arwaalbanawi, and @WaleedShah, they are really talented and they really inspired me.
I would like to contribute to the Middle East community being a curve model and representing the natural woman figure. We live in the inclusivity era, where being healthy is totally compatible with having curves. Your body your rules!
We woke up in a different world.
All of a sudden, there’s no more wake ups in the middle of the night, no more places to change, no more people around.
When you’re used to see around 300 new people almost every day, when you’re used to change your location in the world every few days, when you’re used to have abnormal, sometimes inhuman regime – and it all becomes a routine for you. All that you dream about – is a “normal” life.
But apparently you don’t want it. You cannot adopt to it. What is normal even? You miss the craziness of your days. You miss the unexpected. You miss the life that keeps surprising you.
But it will never be the same.
And you either accept it, or move forward. You grow. You go out of your comfort zone. You finally chase your dreams, and you’re not scared anymore. You’re not scared to loose what you have, because you simply don’t have anything from the past.
And that’s the point of bifurcation. Your point of growth, through pain and frustration, but you move forward, you get all your strength and finally do all the things, that you’ve never had “time” for.
We’re in the situation, that we either do, or fall out.
So get on track! Just do it
Hey guys! My name is Abdulrahman but you can simply call me Abdul. I create video content highlighting Abu Dhabi and its people (@adaywithabdul). The last couple of months have put me in a bit of a rut to be completely honest. I derive my energy from exploring new places and meeting up with friends and family. Once it was all taken away, I’ve struggled to channel it through a creative outlet but I think I’m almost there mentally. I think the pandemic offers an opportunity to be creative about content and I’m exploring that at the moment. Anyhow, this is a great opportunity for local artists to shine as people find themselves looking around within their networks to connect. Everyone has a chance to showcase what they have to offer and so an uptick in creativity is bound to happen. So go on, try picking up a skill or two if you’re able to. Good luck!
I’m a designer and photographer raised and based in Dubai. I recently took the step to start my own agency, ONEPOINTSIX. I’ve spent the last few weeks in quarantine, Gaming, doing whatever work I need to do, and painting whenever possible.
My strategy was “see how it goes, one step at a time” before the pandemic and everything that’s happened. but obviously that’s changed. I’ll begin by making moves with other creatives, reaching out to businesses that struggled, and offer my services for less and see where I can help, the same goes for my fellow creatives as well. Being of service is my primary purpose in these times.
My latest project is about mental illness, I’ve yet to officially release the work as its been in production for a while.
The regional artists that really inspire me are Ibrahim Ahmed (Egypt) and Sadik Alfraji (Iraq). I think there will be a massive boom in content creation once artists are able to go back out there and draw inspiration from the world, we’ve all had some kind of trauma experiencing what we’ve experienced and we creatives will be able to process that into beautiful work once we get the chance.
1. Introduce yourself
Im SACHII, an Emirati/Filipino singer and songwriter. My mom says that I could sing before I could talk from what she remembers. I just remember always having a strong passion for the arts, since I was a child I always jumped at any opportunity related to it from music, acting, dancing, or modeling.
2. How have you been spending the last few weeks?
Playing video games and having group video calls with friends have been keeping me sane. I’ve also been singing and writing a lot of new material!
3. How have you changed your strategy post-pandemic?
I honestly haven’t changed much because I’m the type of artist that patiently waits for lyrics or beats to hit me. I always found it difficult to sit down and try to write, I want it to all come and flow naturally. It has been really hard to find inspiration though so I guess Ive been listening to music and watching movies more studiously than before to get inspiration.
4. What’s your latest project about?
Something never done before, a broken heart.
5. Who are the regional artists you draw inspiration from?
I can’t decide as I would honestly say all of them! Some that do come to mind are @andymusicproducer @fafa.music @ibbyvk @musicbyodd @aesthetictide26 Its really hard for me to pick because I think every artist in our region is truly inspiring since it’s definitely a challenge to pursue a passion in the arts in our region.
6. What do you think will happen to the art world?
I’m extremely excited to see all types of art that were made during COVID. I think we’re going to have a new age, the quaranaissance if you will like I wonder if all the art made during quarantine will all have a similar feel and you’d be able to tell that it was probably made during quarantine 2020.
7. What would you like to tell the world?
I hope that everyone’s trying their best to keep their spirits up, through these tough times. Since that is what’s going to help us be stronger than ever before once all this blows over. Oh and my favorite saying that I believe cant get stressed enough which is if you have nothing nice to say then say nothing!
My name is Isra Rashid. I am the friend who will honestly give you several reasons as to why the fashion system requires dismantling at several levels, while at the same time gift you a well-crafted piece of clothing. As a sustainable fashion advocate, I believe if a person truly loves fashion they should value craftsmanship and buy purposefully. By simply taking a moment to mindfully consider all purchases, we not only end up with less waste but we own clothes that truly reflect our sense of style and values, empowering the maker and the wearer.
I feel fortunate to have spent a good amount of time between three different cities for the past 3 years; Dubai, Paris, and New York. My experiences in each of them have allowed me to explore the different ways in which the fashion industry operates, which can be unsustainable most of the time.
How have you been spending the last few weeks?
In the past few weeks, I’ve been watching the summer approach, our system failing and the earth restoring all at the same time. I’ve been thinking about ways to encourage brands to protect the garment workers in their supply chain that are currently the most affected by the pandemic.
How have you changed your strategy post-pandemic?
I’ve been very loud about the problems and silent about my privileges. Trying to count my blessings and plan things from a place of acceptance.
What’s your latest project?
Currently I’m organizing workshops to educate brands on sustainability literacy.
Who are the regional artists you draw inspiration from?
Artists whose leadership is driven by core values that align with both social and environmental goals. @waleedshah @exhale.ae
What do you think will happen to the art world?
Art is a powerful tool that connects people from different cultures and different times through images and sounds. I’m sure art will continue to play an important role. While physical spaces may be canceled, art fairs are already looking into virtual versions to showcase the artists’ work.
What would you like to tell the world?
The strength and resilience of the human spirit are uncanny. Together we will get through it all.
I’m a 25-year-old Dubai-based creative, working to promote sustainable fashion within the region. As the founder of a regional streetwear brand, SOUND.ON, I’ve been working on creating a 100% sustainable line over these past few weeks that are truly one-of-a-kind and good for the environment. Using vintage, recycled, pre-loved, and deadstock fabric, these upcycled designs are my way of showing everyone that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to be so limited. I get to tap into my creativity while at home working on these handmade upcycled pieces by transforming these old fabrics into something contemporary yet informative. What I’m doing relates to the current culture at the moment, because the world is moving towards adopting a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle that’s environmentally friendly. I hope my work inspires others to be more aware when consuming! I’d love it if i inspired some to start looking at sustainable fashion differently and begin upcycling their own projects 🙂
My name is Tumi, I’m a fashion photographer, DJ & content creator based in Dubai and Muscat. I’ve been spending the last few weeks filming different kinds of video content to see what kind of YouTube channel I should start (I also got myself acquainted with tiktok recently)
The pandemic has forced us to take matters into our own hands, and no longer wait to be reached out to. I’m just creating content i like & people who follow me vibe with, and that interests brands to want to work with me simply because I’m releasing content that looks like something they would’ve wanted to be a part of.
My latest project that hasn’t come alive yet, is a comedic cooking show where I pose as one of my many split personalities, an African aunty.
I’m currently drawing inspiration from my best friend @drankin_leen who started upcycling clothes, which is basically taking pieces and reworking them to look completely different. I love the idea of transforming old to new.
I think the art world will be slapped into reality. Not from the creators side, but more so from the corporate side. I think people are uniting against not being compensated fairly, and that this might be the time for that change to actually happen.
I wanna tell the world that.. it is what it is, just make the most out of it.
