My Riyadh experience - Part 2

so I finally managed to get part one of my Riyadh experience up on the blog. If you happen to be new here, you may read it over here! I received such an over whelming response to that post that it makes me feel awesome to know that there are people out there who support my journey. It truly warms my heart.The second part of my experience I'm going to cover 4 categories: The benefits of teaching abroad, which qualifications are required for teaching abroad, some useful tips on applying and lastly what it's like to teach international students and how they differ from South African students.So listen up fellow and future international teachers! 

What are the benefits of teaching abroad? 

Some of the cool benefits of teaching abroad is the great remuneration package. This includes a tax free salary, fully furnished accommodation (this may vary), transport to and from work, medical insurance for yourself, your spouse and up to 3 dependents (this varies too!) and one round air fare ticket to your country of origin during the summer break which is about 2-4 months long! And not forgetting the amazing travelling experience that comes with teaching abroad. Impressed? Read on ... 

Who is eligible to apply? 

Most international teaching jobs are aimed at experienced teachers although this doesn't discredit those of you who are still starting out. In terms of age group, positions are usually open to all ages, although some companies may have an age restriction due to visa purposes. If you are currently working as a teacher that's great. It means that you more than likely have a B.ed (Bachelors of Education degree) or a B.A degree with a specialization in English or Linguistics. Being qualified in this will totally get you into the program. If you don't, do a TEFL or CELTA course. Most companies that I have researched look for these qualifications in addition to a degree. 

Apply apply apply!

  

I've had countless emails of people inquiring about how I got 'into' the program of teaching abroad, as they have applied to numerous schools and recruiting sites with little luck. Firstly, I urge you to critically analyse your resume and ask yourself how you can improve it. You are probably in competition with hundreds of other applicants. Secondly, if you have applied, do follow-ups to recruitment agencies AND ASK if they have received your resume. Remember, you have to be persistent. In the end you have more to gain than what you have to lose. In addition, make sure that you meet the criteria of the post BEFORE applying. Often times, I found myself just clicking "apply" and forgetting the next day what exactly I applied for. So keep track. Lastly, don't give up on applying.  As my mom would always tell me 'You never know where your luck lies.' 

The differences in teaching International kids & South African kids 

In my first few months of teaching I have summed up some of the obvious differences between teaching kids from an international background and those from South Africa. First off, children from an international background are more tolerant and accepting. I suppose this stems from the fact that everybody comes from different parts of the world. I remember having a student who needed a walking aid to assist her and I recall how the children in my class would assist her by packing her books in the shelves after a lesson and head to the cafeteria to buy something to nibble on. This showed me tolerance and a deep sense of care. In comparison to South Africans students who will emotionally break down someone by making fun of them before lending a hand. And of course, this does not go for everyone as I recall a semi-handicapped student at my South African school who was helped by many students at the school by holding his bag whilst he climbed the stair. So I suppose in some light the tolerance level varies between international and South African students. 

I've often been asked about the type of students I teach abroad. I look at prospecting teachers scratching my forehead and asking what they mean by type (Laughs). 'They are kids..' I'd exclaim. 'But are they respectful?...' Aha! That's what this type is. Without a doubt, kids and their parents who are from an international background realize the importance of Education and once this is realized the respect follows to those who deliver the Education. At least this goes to the older group who I have taught. In my opinion, I think that South African parents and kids are slowly starting to realize the value of Education in their lives especially in the light of #feesmustfall situation. It has made it even more difficult for kids to 'get out' of the vicious cycle of poverty. In addition, we can't rule out that kids from SA face different 'issues' compared to kids from an international background. Internationally, the worse case scenario one would get is the child who comes from a divorce parent situation. As opposed to SA kids the situation varies greatly as children are exposed to different social ills of society like drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy - the list goes on! Naturally, kids who are openly exposed to the social ills become "survivors" very early on. With this being said, I found that those who are less exposed like the ones in Saudi Arabia, are way more sheltered than South African kids. In other words, drug abuse, prostitution, rape and sexual abuse are all terms that are not openly discussed in the classroom or even at home. 

Useful recruiting links 

https://saudi.jobs77.com/ea/

https://www.teachaway.com/

http://www.goabroad.com/teach-abroad

http://www.footprintsrecruiting.com/

http://www.seekteachers.com/

That's all from me! If you have any comments or questions leave them down below and don't forget to follow me on Instagram & Facebook. Thank for taking the time to read. 

Enjoy my photo gallery down below:

Strolls through the desert // Chilling with Zaneb // Getting ready for some bowling // Mandatory outfit selfie // Mandatory desert selfie before we hike // Fav lip color selfie // Best pancakes ever!! // Soul sistas // Farewell cake // Best Coffee bar //  Sistas chilling // Natures beauty //  The real MVP's // Sunset at a Compound

My Riyadh Experience - Part 1

Image: Taken at Thumamah Desert, Riyadh, KSA 

About 6 months ago I decided to take my career over seas. The school that I applied at was  based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Before arriving at King Khalied International airport, I knew nothing about Riyadh. In fact, I knew very little about Saudi Arabia besides what the net was telling me. And we all know what a GREAT source the internet can be! Two things that it didn't fail to mention -this may shock us liberal Westerners- is that firstly,women are not allowed to drive and secondly when heading outside your door it is mandatory to wear your Abayaa (traditional black thobe). Do I hear a sudden gasp of surprise? So let me back track here a little...
The first thing that you need to know is that The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is governed by Islamic law known as the Shari'ah. The Shari'ah is the Islamic canonical law based on the teachings of the Koran and the traditions of the Prophet Hadith and Sunna- and should be followed by all people living in the country.

 Initially, we thought that it would be a hassle to throw the Abayya over our "normal" clothing in EVERY encounter with the outside world. After giving it a month, we just didn't feel right leaving our apartment without it. Even popping over to your friend next door, we unconsciously knew that we had to throw the Abayaa  over our clothing.When I tell some of my friends that the Abayaa is mandated upon women but wearing the Hijaab (head scarf) or Niqaab (face and head covering) isn't, they find it pretty strange. And who wouldn't? 

 I mean, I literally wore Khloe Kardashian braids with an Abayaa. There's no problem at all. It's just that you'll get weird stares and it kind of singles you out as a foreigner. It seems that Saudi Arabia is the kind of country that you'll feel more comfortable "blending" in rather than standing out. Standing out usually attracts the locals- which are pretty friendly by the way- the endless "Oohs.." and "Aahs.." after finding out I'm from South AFRICA is often quite amusing. Locals usually point to their face in utter shock miming to the fact that "I am not black..". This then leads to a lengthy explanation about how not all people in Africa are in fact black, and NO lions do not roam the streets. (Laughs)

The bottom line is that we can choose to view woman living in Saudi Arabia who are restricted in their dress code and not being able to drive as primitive, outdated, stereotypical and sexist (these are just some of the adjectives that I imagine a Westerner saying; in fact this is something I might have said myself!). As difficult as it may seem, the truth is that it's pretty pointless fighting an entire Shari'ah (Laughs) but rather to seek the positives in what we perceive as draw backs. 

I mean, the Abayaa in some ways is a total time saver. If I was ever late for an appointment, I could literally just go out with my PJ's beneath my Abayaa. Similarly, getting to a restaurant and mall hasn't been easier. By ordering an Uber or Careem, your ride is there in under 10 minutes and I can just depend on these reliable forms of transportation to get me to where I need to be. In some crazy odd way travelling with a cab was so liberating that it developed my independence in a lot of ways. Being on my own helped build my self confidence especially in the work place. 

For one, traveling home from the mall required me to get a taxi one way or the other. Myself and friends would bargain with the drivers for the best price. If they didn't budge, we would walk away and say "Ah! it's okay.." "Leave it.." waiting for the driver to reluctantly beg us to use his service after we go on searching for another taxi. The crazy paradox is that women may be seen as "oppressed" by Western culture but let me tell you, women are so protected and liberated in their rights that men will never want to mess with you. If you just raise your voice in protest about something that didn't suit you, you'll have an army of men by your side defending your honor (Laughs). On a serious note now, you are protected and so are your rights. I have never been to a country as safe and secure as Saudi Arabia. When people say that they can sleep with their doors open, the KSA is def a place where that is the reality. 

With every right comes a drawback. In a social setting, women are often the most restricted. With about 70% of coffee shops, restaurants and chill out places reserved for men, women are often left to be home with kids and so on. But that doesn't stop these ladies from having the most decked out pamper parties wearing the most glamorous gowns. Arab woman know how to do glamour and entertainment in the confinement of their homes. There are a few restaurants and chill out places reserved for women. For example Kingdom Tower (also known as Mamlaka, one of the must see tourist destinations in Riyadh)  is a mall housing all your luxury brands, has a section where only women are allowed to shop and dine. 

Often times I get asked what there is to do in Riyadh. People view Riyadh to be somewhat boring. Prior to my travelling this was a topic that interest me as well. When I looked up the topic on the net, I remember seeing someone exclaiming something along the lines of "Riyadh?... social life? what social life?". Being a free spirited person, this really shoved me up the wrong way. But what I want to say is ... You can go out every single night of the week if you know the right people. I mean, its pretty damn good hanging out with like-minded people. People who are expats like yourselves who share more or less the same experiences as your'll is amazing.

 I suppose where you will find solace in a social life is getting in touch with compounds. But note: these compounds are by invite only. Therefore, it would be a good idea that when you get into the compound, you make friends with restaurant managers and people who are residents in the compound. Get on that list and you'll be able to have a fun night every night. The "fun" includes Smoking Shisha beside the pool and eating some of the best Arabian and Western cuisines. If you like a little bit of adventure the way I do, opt for a hike to "the edge of the world" or a BBQ under the stars in the desert! 

I hope you enjoyed reading the part one experience of Riyadh. Don't forget to like and share this post. Thank you to everyone who has supported me through my journey. I am so grateful to you. Stay tuned for part 2. 

Love, 

Iptishaam 

Selfie with students on my first day//Sunrise in the desert//Sabiha sleeping next to the fire in the desert//Sabz and I//View of a beautiful compound//View from my hotel room// First day of school and also my birthday//In my element with the kids//Smoking shisha//Pictured in the desert (back in my Abayaa 'cause we were heading home)

TIMELESS CLASSICS by DANIEL WELLINGTON

I've always thought of my style as trend-driven, although relaxed with a little bit of classiness attached to it. Truthfully, I often forget about the classics amidst the sea of trends we, at times drown in. So when the cool folk from Daniel Wellington got in touch with me to sport One of their classics, I was more than happy to get back to my roots!  

 About the brand 

Daniel Wellington, a British gentleman founded by Filip Tysander  

  was particularly fond of wearing timeless watches (excuse the pun).  His watches can be described as minimalist and refined with a classic design. The classic design though can be changed up by the use of interchangeable straps found on their website . The absolute classic, the NATO strap inspired by the British Navy in the 70's and the classic genuine leather strap watch is there to suit your mood and any occasion . Whether it is heading out to a fancy black tie event, playing a game of tennis or enjoying the day at the beach club. The hardest decision that you'll have to make is deciding which strap to wear (I know I am)! 

Kudos to the team for creating such a  user friendly the website . I really like things that are easy, especially when one is so busy! And I think you'll love it too. Although it may be tough deciding on exactly which watch to settle on. Do give them a Follow on their Instagram account, I love how visually appealing it is.

To make your shopping experience a lot more pleasant, we're offering a 15%  discount on any of their watches using the code STITCHEDDW at checkout! Cool hey? Happy Shopping! Once bought, do tag us so we can Repost your newly purchased classic on our social media. 

About this look 

When I received the Dapper Durham 35mm watch on my desk I knew it was the ultimate classic watch!It was only fitting that I would automatically peruse through my closet   searching for the perfect classic pieces to style it with.It didn't take me long,  keeping in  mind that my classics referred to tailored pants, classic buttoned shirts and a refined blazer which I only have but a few of. 

I like the different textures of this outfit. My pants, a kind of Georgette fabric paired with the classic collard shirt and the silk like texture of the blazer all lends itself well with what I considered to be the ultimate classics. You're probably thinking, Aha! Again those shoes. FYI these are not my Zoom ones as worn here! but I love how a pointy heel just elongates ones legs. I purchased these a while back! They may still have the tan ones online. 

Loving my pictures lately? You might have noticed that I am working quite a bit with Capturing Concepts Photography to bring you these really cool images (even if I have to say it myself). Go ahead and give them a follow on Facebook and Instagram .

 They are running such a cool special on their packages. So go ahead and take full advantage! 

Scarf/HnM, Cotton Shirt/Fashion Express,Pants/ Vintage, Shoes & Fringe Bangle/ Mr Price, Necklace/ La Belle, Rose Gold sling bag/ 4flavour YDE

 
 

 
 
 
 
 


PHOTO CREDIT

CAPTURING CONCEPTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Until next time! 

 XO
  Iptishaam 

HATS, SCARVES & BLOGGING

Photo By Capturing Concepts Photography

I've received such a positive response from everyone on my previous look (here!). Judging from so many emails I've received, I found that dressing modestly is in fact s struggle for those wanting to go that route. So I'm glad when I received an email from one of my readers saying that she found the tips given quite helpful. (You welcome!)

Life of a blogger is never easy when you constantly have to think of something fresh and relevant so that your content can appeal to audiences alike. My source of inspiration are often than not, things happening in society, international Fashion Bloggers and also my personal 'struggles'. Being on a three week holiday from work, allows me to cram! I am cramming all my content into these 3 weeks in the hopes of having content for the next few months! 

I often get asked about blogging and mostly where I get the time to do it in the midst of being a 21st century teacher. Here is some idea of the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolds. We have all been given 24 hours in a day to reach our full potential. Make the most of your 24 hours.

1. Firstly, you have to schedule an appointment with the photographer (use someone who captures your style perfectly and who you are comfortable with).  

2. Select a great outfit.

3. Choose a location to suit the outfit and then obviously write a blog post about it. 

4. Select your pictures carefully by making sure you're happy with what you're going to put out there then write and EDIT your post. 

5. Having your audience know about it by publishing it on all SM networks by using a teaser shot! 

It's a little easier after that and you can decide to post Throw backs using some of the pictures you have never used to write life related posts or even to run a competition! You'll have PLENTY of unused images after a shoot! 

Go ahead and start planning your next outfit in the hopes that everything is still relevant. Through its madness (at times). It's all worth it 'cause it helps me inspire those who need a little push. And I'd like to think that this is why I blog. 

About this look... 

In case you haven't noticed: this is the same outfit, although a little more casual and laid back, as worn here. You know that I love showing you ladies various ways to pull off the seemingly classic look. You'll see that by changing a few details of your outfit, you can create a completely different lookie! 

My love for brogues is eternal. I love them in heels, flats and tasseled! I adore the relax ending it gives to an outfit. Speaking about Tassels, these Tasseled earrings are said to look like parts of a curtain (according to Nur) but I pretty much like the playful nature it gives to the outfit. The scarf and hat combo is just something I thought I'll give a shot and screams high fashion! 

Hat, shoes & shirt/Mr Price, Pants/ Woolworths, Necklace & ring /4flavour YDE, Scarf/ HnM, Watch & Bag/Guess 

Keep a look out for my Eid look coming soon! Yay! 

More on this outfit after the jump! 

ALL IMAGES CAPTURED BY CAPTURING CONCEPTS PHOTOGRAPHY.

XO
Iptishaam  

MODESTE

Photo By Capturing Concepts Photography

Modesty for me may not be the same as what it is for everyone else. For some, it may be something more internal and emotional like lowering ones voice when speaking, humbling oneself in front of others. For others, a more external and physical picture comes to mind: wearing over sized clothing, avoiding unnecessary prowling eyes;  basically covering your butt. 

To me, I am naturally extroverted (being a teacher and all) so in some respects the idea of emotional modesty doesn't come easily for me 'cause I constantly have to raise my voice in class and sometimes I present that to the world as well. In fact, Nur has to constantly remind me that I am not at school and that I need to remove my teacher hat! (laughs). 

So while I'm trying my darnest to work on my inner modesty, surprisingly, it seems that my outta modesty comes a little more easily. Some may comment that often dressing modestly may be boring and often mundane. I am here to dispute by saying "ABSOLUTELY NOT"!. One thing I love about dressing modestly, is that it does not imply wearing a head scarf the way I did here. You can do hats or even style your scarf into a Turban style which is usually my go-to style of late!

Here are Some of my tips for shopping modest wear: 

Whenever I shop around for clothing like basic shirts and dresses (dresses I tend to make it Bohemian), I purchase it slightly over-sized, with the exception of jeans and shoes of course. If I feel that jeans are too tight for me and I need to make my outfit a little more modest-y, I'll opt for a pants like this one. But if you are a more jeans Kind of Girl, you can totally wear this Shirt with a light colored jeans or Indigo if that floats your boat! 

When I say purchase slightly over-sized, I don't mean granny or to make you look like you wearing fat Amy's clothing, but rather to the point where you are still looking reasonably presentable. If you struggling to trudge the line between Fat Amy and Granny, take a trusted friend along to help you with this. Usually a sales consultants' opinion will also help you cross that river!

About this look...

Much of this look has been inspired by one of my favorite modest Fashion Bloggers, Saufeeya, from feeeeya.com. 

 I wanted to show you ladies how you can take seemingly loose fitted pants and shirt without looking like you are drowning in your clothing! I find that cuffed pants is key to achieving this look. In addition, making sure that my shirt is mid-length (depending on your height) also gives a great variation. Also, because I know it's still a little bit chilly, pairing this coat from Maya Maya just gives me life! In fact, I've decided to pair this with my Eid outfit InshA-Allah! 

On a final note, don't be afraid to shop around; that is heading into thrift stores and rummaging through the sale section. Sometimes expensive designer wear can make you look tacky and takes a toll on your pocket. 

Cuffed Pants/ Woolworths, Mid-Length white shirt / Mr Price, Grey Strappy Pointed heels / Zoom , Bag & Watch / Guess , Fringe Scarf in LOLA/ the Scarf company.

About my photographer...

Capturing Concepts will be having a Crazy Winter special!

Book a family, couples, pre-wedding/engagement, kids or an individual shoot and get a 20% discount. One Hour location based shoot in and around Cape Town (25km-30km) radius or even a studio set up at your home. You can have unlimited amount of looks and outfits with an unlimited amount of people. Limited to one Hour and a MAX of 30 edited High Def images supplied on a DVD disc for ONLY R280. 

Contact Abdul/ Rasheeqoh on 082 9920 703/4. 

SPECIAL RUNNING FROM JUNE-AUGUST 

Happy Shopping and be a doll and let me know what you thought of this outfit on my SM platforms or below!  

Love, 

Iptishaam