HH Sheikha Manal Bint Mohammed inaugurates local jewellery exhibition

The three day exhibition, sponsored by HSBC Private Bank and SME, showcases the Jeune (meaning 'perfect pearl' in Arabic) line of jewellery that is inspired by the organic elements of nature and traditional Middle Eastern art. The Jeune collection has been created by local UAE talents, Fatma Al Qasimi and Azhar Albayati.

HH Sheikha Manal praised the impressive designs and urged UAE women to increase their participation in the economic development of the country by launching their own private businesses and become actively involved in the local business sector.

The Emirati duo thanked Her Highness for her support and encouraging words. They also expressed gratitude to SME for granting them a scholarship to start their own jewellery enterprise. Having completed a diploma in jewellery business management, ranging from the design and fabrication of jewellery to elements of managing a business, Fatma and Azhar form a winning team.

Fatma is responsible for the business administration, conceptualization of the pieces and sourcing precious stones, while Azhar transforms her concepts into attractive designs.

The collection is a modern interpretation of traditional aesthetics and recreates the motifs and shapes found in nature, including fruits, butterflies and stars. The Jeune line is also inspired by the intricate detail of henna designs.

Emphasising that she considered it important to mirror her local roots through the designs, Fatma said: 'Azhar and I earnestly wished to create a jewellery brand that would delight all women and especially appeal to the sentiments of the UAE nationals.

'We wanted to design pieces that were nostalgic and represented our tradition - such as applying the henna for weddings. We aim to capture the beauty of nature into our pieces. After all, what could be more inspiring than the art and colour found in nature?'

The Jeune collection is unique in content too. Fatma hand picks gems of the highest quality from around the world. Then, Fatma and Azhar painstakingly control every step of the production process to ensure the excellence and aesthetic appeal of the designs in order to satisfy each discerning client. Fatma and Azhar duplicate their designs only on special request.

Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders, said: 'We always feel proud to see the fruition of the dreams of our member companies. One of our key objectives is to encourage UAE women entrepreneurs to launch their own businesses through a wide range of support services.'

'Jewellery trade has always been one of the key segments of the UAE market. We are glad to see Emirati young women entering the jewellery market by introducing their own brand and design. We hope that more national entrepreneurs will take similar initiatives.'

Pierre Pissaloux, Global Head MENA region HSBC Private Bank said: 'As a fundamental aspect of our corporate social responsibility, HSBC Private Bank has always been keen to nurture and develop the potential of young talents. Encouraging two talented lady Emarati artists complements our strategic aim to continue the tradition of supporting the arts in the communities where we do business. We are also pleased to be associated with Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders that promotes young talent and entrepreneurial business ideas.'

Tawheed Abdulla, CEO of Damas Jewellery, praised the Emirati duo for their excellent performance and outstanding talent during their study at the Jewellery Academy that was jointly launched by Mohammad Bin Rashid Est. for young business leaders, Damas and Higher Colleges of Technology. He said: 'Azhar and Fatima were among the first batch that graduated from the academy. We wish them every success in their business enterprise.'