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A Mothering Sunday in Kuwait

Spectrum News

A Mothering Sunday in Kuwait

Published Date: March 04, 2008
By Sahar Moussa, Staff writer




Mothering Sunday is a traditional British holiday that has been observed since the 17thcentury. It can be compared to the modern-day Mother's Day. Different countries have their own traditions and unique history. In many countries, Mother's Day is a new concept adopted from the west.

In African countries, the idea of Mother's day can be traced back to the British. Whereas, in most parts of East Asia , it is strongly influenced by the American tradition. The United States celebrates Mother's Day on the second Sunday, every May. I t was loosely inspired by the British one and was started by social activist Julia Ward Howe after the American Civil War.

I make my mom a card and give it to her... and then we celebrate", this is how Hanna a beautiful British pre-teen girl described the occasion. On Sunday, the British Ladies Society celebrated 'Mother's Day' with pots of purple and pink spring flowers, music ,fashion show and afternoon tea at the Radisson SAS, in association with the British Academy of International Arts, Strands and Samara group.

It's not entirely about the fashion show. It is Mothering Sunday for the British like Americans have the Mother's Day. It is a traditional event that started in the seventeen century in England, so for us it's more of a tradition. Usually, the fourth Sunday of Lent so that's why we are holding a celebration for the ladies. There is a fashion show , but it is not the whole thing . It is about people coming together." said Caroline Brakat, President of the British Ladies Society.

We've got the girls from the British International Academy, who are part of the dance group and they will be our models for today. The colorful clothes they will be wearing are sponsored by 'Samsaara' from Salmiya complex and the hair styling will be done by Strands," Brakat added. Mothering Sunday is a Christian practice of visiting one's main church annually. This lets most mothers reunite with their children on this day. Historians believe that young apprentices and young women in servitude were releas
ed by their masters on the weekend, so that they could visit their families. This day is also known by other names such as Simnel Sunday, Refreshment Sunday and Rose Sunday.

Traditionally, Mothering Sunday is the day when the mother takes a break. In this part of the world many people have servants and they take the day off. So, Mothering Day is a way families, organizations and friends can honor their mothers and gives them a day- off from their everyday routine. This is a nice way to treat mothers in Kuwait. To present them with a fashion show so that they can see the latest in fashion and gift them a buffet and flowers to relax and enjoy their day with the Simnel Cake, an
d when I say cake, I mean that there is a special kind of cake called Simnel cake -it is a type of traditional fruit cake. It is a religious holiday in UK than it is in the States." Said Marie Rhodes Hickman ,a media professional.

What made the event really vibrant was the music and the fashion show presented by the girls from the British Academy of International Arts. They showcased the creations of a multi-brand Indian designer house in Kuwait, "Samsaara". The clothes had an exquisite Indian touch - earthy and intricately woven. Fine fabrics likes chiffons, silk and voile were integrated. Some were everyday casual wear while others were sophisticated and elegant. (Kuwait Times)

There are numerous clubs, societies and organisations for expats in Kuwait. Whatever your nationality, interests or age, there's bound to be something that suits you. Joining a society can be a great way to meet new people, pick up a new skill or even discover a hidden talent, so ... what are you waiting for? 

 

 

SOCIAL SOUTH AFRICANS IN KUWAIT (SOSA-Q8)

 

The social group organises social events for South Africans in Kuwait. With frequent Braais, coffee mornings, events and outings as well as a weekly email bulletin, it's a great way for expats to meet up, support each other and learn more about the culture around them.

 

Contact Details:

Dave Esmonds-White, Chairman

Tel: 7222134 or 571 3389

Email: sasocialgroupq8@yahoo.com

http://www.sosa-q8.org/

 

AWARE - ADVOCATES For WESTERN-ARAB RELATIONS

 

The Aware Centre was established in 2003 by a group of Arabs and Westerners with the aim of fostering greater understanding between the two cultures through dialogue and friendship. The Centre provides a variety of services and facilities to familiarise them with the local culture, attend Arabic classes and go on local tours and social events. The Centre provides a real range of educational, recreational and cultural activities including monthly lectures, free publications and a multi-media library.

 

Contact Details:

Iman Martin, Public Relations

Tel: 533 5260/80 ext 211

Email: info@aware.com.kw

http://www.aware.com.kw/

Address: Villa 84, Surra Street, Block 3, Surra, Kuwait

 

 

KUWAIT NOMADS

 

If you want to play rugby and enjoy a packed social calendar, then this group is for you! Made up of expats from all the rugby playing nations of the world, the club has rugby teams for men, ladies, juniors (aged 12-18) and minis (6-11).

 

Contact Details:

Simon Cottrell, Club Captain

Tel: 7845392

Stuart Jarvis, 1st Team Captain

Tel: 7546059

Nigel Tatham, Director Mini/Junior Rugby

Tel: 7595168

 

KUWAIT CALEDONIANS

 

Kuwait Caledonian Society is a charitable society for the promotion of Scottish culture in Kuwait. Throughout the year, many popular and colourful gatherings are held which raise money for Scottish and Kuwaiti charities.

 

Contact Details:

Nanette McCulloch

Tel: 9830865

Sam McCulloch

Tel: 9716840

Email: caledonians_kw@yahoo.com

 

KUWAIT IRISH SOCIETY

 

The Kuwait Irish Society promotes all aspects of Irish life in Kuwait and holds many sporting and social events throughout the year which raise money for charities in Kuwait and Ireland.

 

Contact Details:

Tel: 6262610

Email: irish_society_kwt@yahoo.com

 

AHMADI MUSIC GROUP

 

The Ahmadi Music Group is a multi-national choral group which rehearses and performs at the New English School. The Group sings a wide variety of music and encourages small group and soloists as well. Two concerts are usually held every year (in May and December).

 

Contact Details:

Melanie Welinakar, Chairperson

Tel: 532 4869

Email:  melanie_welinakar@hotmail.com

Rosemary Ling, Secretary

Tel: 9630623

Email: rosemary_ling@hotmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

BRITISH LADIES SOCIETY

 

The Society is a group of British and Commonwealth women who meet for friendship, support and fundraising activities. Regular social events are organised including a weekly coffee morning and a Mothers & Toddlers Group who meet every Sunday morning. An evening event is held every month as well as a number of excursions and other activities which are held throughout the year. A weekly email bulletin is also sent out and members also benefit from discounts at local retail outlets and businesses.

 

Tel: 7327596

Email: blsq8@yahoo.com

 

 

KUWAIT SINGERS

 

The Kuwait Singers is a mixed voice (SATB) choir of over 50 singers who all love singing. The Singers perform all kinds of music from classical and opera to light pop and songs from the shows. Two performances a year are produced and other less formal performances are also put on at other venues. Rehearsals are held at Atakamul International School, Sabah Al Salem on Sundays from 7.30 - 9.30 pm. Newcomers are always welcome whatever their previous experience.

 

Mike Kempster, Musical Director

Tel: 6683770

Email: kuwaitsingers@yahoo.com

 

 

KUWAIT MANTAS

 

The Kuwait Mantas is an overseas branch of the British Sub-Aqua Club (BS-AC). Dives are organised every weekend (weather permitting) on the group's own boat and sometimes over-night camps take place on one of Kuwait's many islands. Social events are also organised during the week and there are training courses for beginners.

 

Jon Morley, Chairman

Tel: 6587737

Email: johnmorely@hotmail.com

Ken Barker, Membership

Tel: 9382716

Email: kendo@hotmail.com

Rob Harris, Jones

Tel: 7943783

Email: rob_hj48@hotmail.com

 

 

 

 

FAHAHEEL SAILING CLUB

 

 

FASC aims to produce and encourage sailing for all ages and also offers courses for beginners. For those who are more experienced or novices who want to learn, there are three race series per year for catamarans and a BBQ at Dive Caroline's beach in Fahaheel Sea Club from noon every other Friday.

 

Contact Details:

371 9289

Email: fasc@horn3.com

www.horn3.com/divecaroline

 

 

 

DUFFERS SQUASH LEAGUE

 

For those who like regular, relaxed squash games in a social environment! The league comprises about 30 people, in four groups. Rules of standard squash apply with all matches being the best of five and must be completed before the end of the month.

 

Contact Details:

Mike Ling

Tel: 9833297

Email: mike.ling@total.com

 

 

CATMARAN SAILING

 

Kuwait Catamaran Sailing Club is a group of enthusiasts who love sailing catamarans. There is a fleet of Dart 18 and Hobie 16 catamarans based at the club. All boats are privately owned but any visitor can rely on being taken out as crew some time on a Friday.

 

Contact Details:

John Morley, Fleet Captain

Tel: 6587737

Email: johnmorley@hotmail.com

 

 

KUWAIT OFFSHORE SAILING ASSOCIATION

 

KOSA encourages and promotes offshore sailing in the waters off Kuwait. For the more experienced, there are races every two weeks and occasional cruises.

 

Contact Details:

Peter Cameron, Commodore

Tel:  9745383

Kate Tee, Secretary

Tel: 371 9289

Email: katietee@horn3.com or kosa_kwt@yahoo.com

 

 

FIVE-A-SIDE SOCCER

 

The British Expat Five-A-Side Soccer takes place every week on a Monday night throughout the year at the British School of Kuwait, Salwa 1, Street 1, Salwa. Other soccer activities are also organised.

 

Contact Details:

Mike Finn

Tel: 562 1701

Email: mif@bsk.edu.kw

 

 

 

KAST - KUWAIT YOUTH THEATRE

 

KAST is a drama school for 10 - 20 year olds of all nationalities. The school concentrates on all aspects of performance and all KAST members are entered for The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA).

 

Contact Details:

Alison Shan Price, ALAM, Director

Tel: 563 1725

Gregan Davis ALAM, Director

Tel: 564 3409

Email: kast_kast@hotmail.com

 

 

KTAA - KUWAIT TEXTILE ARTS ASSOCIATION

 

The organisation is based at Sadu House and brings together individuals interested in contemporary textiles and fibre arts. A programme of demonstrations, stitch, quilting groups and adult workshops is organised. KTAA presents guest lecturers at their general meetings on the 3rd Sunday of every month. Meetings are held at 19:00 at Dar El Cid in Jabriya.

 

Contact Details:

Joan Fisher

Tel: 390 3462

Email: wovenpieces@yahoo.com

 

 

KUWAIT CASUALS CRICKET CLUB

 

KCCC plays cricket in all weathers. With an emphasis on enjoying a friendly game of cricket, although the 1st team plays in the local Kuwait league. The Club has a mix of nationalities, ages and abilities. And weekly matches are arranged with other teams.

 

Contact Details:

Jim Mcllory, Captain, Social XI

Tel:  9170501

Idris Hafiz, Vice Captain, Social XI

Tel: 6670779

 

 

THE ELIZABETHANS

 

 

The Elizabethans Theatre Company was formed in 1998 as a theatrical company to perform classical plays and provide associated workshops for schools in Kuwait. The company comprises many different nationalities united in their love of all aspects of theatre. The Elizabethans also donate profits form productions to charities.

 

Contact Details:

Gregan Davis

Tel: 564 3409

http://www.elizabethans.itgo.com/

 

 

THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF ST. GEORGE

 

Reformed and relaunched after some time, the Society aims to provide a range of entertaining events and support for English expats and their families and friends during their time in Kuwait.

 

Contact Details:

 Nick Hasch, Chairman

Tel: 6272240

Email: kuwaitsaintgeorge@yahoo.co.uk

 

 

GIRLGUIDING BGIFC

 

 

British Guides in Foreign Countries is part of the Guiding Association, Girlguiding UK and offers girls the opportunity of taking part in the guide programme whilst being abroad. BGIFC Kuwait District comprises 4 units - Rainbow (5-7 years), 2 Brownie units (7-10 years) and a Guide Unit (10-14 years). 50% of members are British but other nationalities are welcomed.

 

Contact Details:

Amanda Weldon, District Commissioner

Tel: 539 6352/640 5350

Email: ajwmjk@yahoo.co.uk

 

 

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