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Hello, I'm Farida

I am a dedicated writer with a strong passion for woman-related topics, art, and fashion. My writing style is engaging and personal, blending humour, emotion, and insight to create content that resonates with readers. When I'm not writing, you can find me exploring new places or spending time with my beloved cats.

Cover Features

Aicha Ben Ahmed

Some stars are born, while others are discovered at the most unexpected moments. For Aicha Ben Ahmed, the spotlight found her when she least expected it. Before captivating audiences across Tunisia and Egypt, she never wanted to be an actress. That all changed when renowned director Nouri Bouzid saw something in her, a spark that would soon ignite a flourishing career in film and television. In an exclusive conversation with Enigma’s Farida Elserty, the talented star revisits the serendipitous m...

Nour Morshedy

Morshedy Group has been a driving force in Egypt’s real estate industry for decades, reshaping skylines and redefining contemporary living. Steering this powerhouse is Nour Morshedy, a leader who seamlessly fuses business with a deep-rooted passion for design and innovation. As CEO and owner, she has propelled the company’s expansion while preserving the legacy that built its name over the years. Her leadership extends beyond strategy and growth—it’s also shaped by her role as a devoted mother o...

Amal Maher

A graduate of the Institute of Arabic Music, an award-winning artist, a mother, and a voice that defines her generation—Amal Maher is the kind of musician others aspire to become. With an impressive catalogue of hit songs over the years, she has cemented her place as one of the Arab world’s most beloved voices of all time. In a heartfelt conversation, Enigma’s Farida Elserty delved into her journey, her artistry, and what lies ahead.
There’s something unique about Amal Maher that...

Hannah El-Zahed

Hannah El-Zahed’s path to fame has been nothing short of spellbinding. Once a rising star in music videos, this remarkably talented actress has now captivated audiences across the Arab world with her unique on-screen personas. Captured in all her glory, El-Zahed graces this issue’s coveted cover for the first time, posing for our cameras with the season’s latest trends. In an exclusive interview with eniGma’s Farida Elserty, the luscious star unravels the story of her remarkable journey to succe...

Ahmed Hatem

A talented actor with a striking presence that commands attention, Ahmed Hatem has left an indelible mark on both the big and small screens. In a world where conformity reigns supreme, he fearlessly ventures into uncharted territories, breathing life into unconventional characters that challenge societal norms and provoke thought. Hatem’s roles not only entertain but often offer a mirror through which we can examine our own beliefs and values, leaving an indelible impression on audiences and cri
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Hala Shiha

Fearless and fervent are two words that sum up Hala Shiha, the remarkable actress who has overcome countless challenges, only to return stronger than ever every time. Captured in all her glory, Shiha graces this issue’s coveted cover and for the first time, she reveals her captivating story of resilience and reinvention. eniGma’s Farida Elserty sat down with the beloved star for a heartfelt chat about her journey to success, her passion for acting, and how motherhood changed her life.
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Reem Moustafa

Despite initial objections from her family, Reem Moustafa was determined to follow her dream of becoming an actress. Her unlikely journey, from a successful marketing career to the silver screen, is a testament to her perseverance and her unwavering commitment to her craft. eniGma’s Farida Elserty had the chance to sit down with the talented actress for a heartfelt chat about her acting career, the secret to her success, and handling the demands of fame.
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Amr Saad

Amr Saad is a gifted actor with a fiery soul who has been hailed as one of Egypt’s most versatile and talented actors. Weaving stories that resonate with the essence of many of his fans, his journey to success is an inspiring tale of passion, dedication and an unwavering commitment to his craft. eniGma’s Farida Elserty chatted with the enigmatic star, exploring his early beginnings, artistic influences and what it took for him to become a star in every sense of the word.

From the instant I saw
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Laila Eloui

In the captivating world of Egyptian cinema where stories come alive with passion and characters etch themselves into our hearts, one name stands out like a luminous star: Laila Eloui. With her radiant presence, unique talent, and profound ability to embody diverse roles, Eloui has captivated audiences and established herself as one of Egypt’s most beloved and accomplished actresses. Her journey in the film industry is a testament to her unwavering dedication and undeniable charisma. She has bre
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Mariam El Khosht

Mariam El Khosht’s effortless acting and stunning beauty made her a fan favourite early in her acting career. She began performing at the tender age of 10, dubbing and singing for Disney Arabia. Years later, El Khosht now an adult, embarked on an acting career and was soon earning critical acclaim for her performances in a number of groundbreaking TV series. Today, the talented young star is gracing eniGma’s cover for the second time. We are pleased to have her on the cover of our wedding issue,
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Ahmed Dawood

With memorable performances since he first appeared on the screen in 2010, Ahmed Dawood has demonstrated his superior acting skills. With a roster of diverse roles, he has moved us, left us breathless and captured our imaginations in tales of love, passion, and adventure. eniGma’s Farida Elserty sat down with the talented actor, known for his modesty and down-to-earth demeanour, for an exclusive, candid chat where he spoke about his journey to the top, the roles that have defined him, and the se
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Zeina

Unstoppable is a word that sums up Zeina, the actress who has overcome truly difficult challenges over the years and has managed to come back even stronger. She began her acting career in 1999 when she took part in the film, Ard El Khouf (Land of Fear) with the late Egyptian star, Ahmed Zaki. The film opened doors for her, and she landed important roles in several films and TV series after that, gaining a huge fan base and making a name for herself as a serious actress. However, Zeina took some
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Huda Al Mufti

Starting out as fashion blogger and model at the age of 17, and now a rising talented actress, Huda El Mufti caught the attention of audiences with her spontaneity and screen presence. With a number of successful screen roles under her belt over the past few years, she is a serious actress to be reckoned with. Our cover star for this issue, the charming El Mufti posed for our cameras in full glam, wearing the season’s trendiest outfits, before sitting down with eniGma’s Farida Elserty to discuss

Personal Favourites

Gihan El Shamashergy

Some individuals create art to escape reality, while others use it to understand and transform it. Gihan El Shamashergy is undoubtedly the latter. A master of reinvention, her artistic journey bridges jewellery design, acting, and contemporary dance, showcasing her boundless creativity and passion for storytelling. With each piece of jewellery she designs, every character she channels, and every performance she brings to life, El Shamashergy weaves a narrative that resonates with her audience. I...

TUL8TE

Tul8TE thrives in mystery, letting his music speak volumes while his identity remains hidden. Beneath his mask lies not just a face, but a story—a constantly evolving narrative that invites listeners to lose themselves in the sound rather than his persona. With nearly 2 million monthly listeners and no traditional marketing, his album Cocktail Ghena’y (Musical Medley) hit the Spotify Viral 50 charts across multiple countries and many other music platforms. In a heartfelt interview with eniGma’s...

Fady El Sayed

Fady Elsayed is a captivating Egyptian-British actor whose journey from Islington to the screen is proof of passion, dedication and true grit. With a background in media, drama, and psychology, he made waves in 2012 with My Brother the Devil, earning him a Best British Newcomer nomination at the BFI London Film Festival. Since then, Elsayed has enchanted audiences with standout roles in Penny Dreadful, Class, and A Private War, to name a few. In a heartfelt chat with eniGma’s Farida Elserty, he...

Farah El Zahed

Pursuing one’s passion often comes with challenges, and Farah El Zahed has emerged as a shining example of determination and talent in Egyptian cinema. A young actress who began her career in 2021, El Zahed has already captivated audiences with her performances, blending youthful exuberance with a dedication to her craft. Her passion for acting, nurtured since childhood, has driven her to overcome challenges and embrace her true calling. El Zahed’s story is not just about entering the industry;...

Caroline Azmy

In the glittering world of Egyptian cinema, where dreams often remain just dreams, Caroline Azmy stands as a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of belief. An actress who embarked on her journey at the tender age of 19, Azmy’s story is one of unique dedication and a relentless pursuit of her dreams despite all odds. eniGma’s Farida Elserty had the chance to chat with the young actress about her journey to stardom, the roles that shaped her, and everything in between.
Azmy’s entranc...

Ahmed Abd El Wahab

As the sun casts its warm glow over the bustling streets of Cairo, one man stands at the intersection of acting and writing, seamlessly navigating the creative realms of theatre, television and cinema. Ahmed Abd El Wahab, a young Egyptian actor and writer, has embarked on a journey of transcending the boundaries of traditional storytelling, leaving an exceptional mark on today’s artistic landscape. eniGma’s Farida Elserty had the chance to sit with the young talent after his mini photo shoot at...

Oblu Nature Helengeli by Sentido Review

In the magical Maldives, nestled at the serene tip of the Northern Malé Atoll and embraced by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, lies the revamped paradise OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO which reopened on December 21, 2023. Picture yourself in a magical, setting steps away from a spellbinding house reef and a breathtaking channel diving experience, where the wonders of the underwater world unfold before your eyes. The resort is perched between two deep channels forming the grandest
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Lina Sophia

At just sixteen years old, part Egyptian and part French Moroccan Lina Sophia, is a rising actress, effortlessly bridging cultures with her talent. Fluent in Arabic, French, English, and Spanish, with a passion for cinematic, theatrical, and television arts, she has been catapulted to the forefront of the entertainment industry. eniGma’s Farida Elserty had the chance to talk with the talented young actress to discuss everything from how she made it to the screen to where she plans on going next.
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Hisham Kharma

In a world where music knows no borders, Hisham Kharma stands out as a visionary composer who combines artistry and innovation to create melodies that defy conventional limits. Shaped by his undergraduate studies in computer science followed by a degree in art direction and creative advertising, it’s safe to say that his journey in music is far from ordinary. It is evident that his determination to push the boundaries of his craft while staying true to himself, has been infusing his compositions
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Ghada Dwaik

“Creativity takes courage.” This Henri Matisse quote fits well with the disposition of architect Ghada Dwaik, who bravely embarked on two additional careers as an artist and as a yoga teacher. Dwaik impressed everyone at eniGma’s Covers Reimagined event last year, with her cover recreations of Mohamed Hadid, Amr Youssef, and Mohamed Hefzy. eniGma’s Farida Elserty caught up with her to find out more about her versatile career and how she manages it all.
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Al Sagheer’s Stylish New Arkan Salon

Since opening its doors a few months ago, the trendy luxurious new branch of Egypt’s leading beauty empire, Mohamed Al Sagheer Spa & Beauty Salon at New Arkan in Sheikh Zayed, has been causing quite a buzz. The exquisite salon continues the legacy of excellence of the company’s legendary founder, the late Mohamed Al Sagheer. Interior designer Injie Mahdy, worked closely with Mostafa Al Sagheer, the founder’s son and current CEO of the company, to create an especially luxurious and unique salon.
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Abdelwahab Hawam

“The artist sees what others only catch a glimpse of.” This is a famous quote by Leonardo Da Vinci that fits the young painter Abdelwahab Hawam, whose paintings aptly reconceptualise local and universal human experiences. Hawam’s unique talent came through in his stunning painting of the iconic Sherihan for eniGma’s Covers Reimagined event last June. eniGma’s Farida Elserty got the chance to chat with the young artist about his artistic journey, his inspirations and his views on art in general.
Ahram Online •

Sweet fruition: Egypt’s scheme to develop date palm production, exports - Society - Egypt

Egypt has drawn up a strategy to develop the palm date sector and associated businesses and increase exports. In 2020, Egypt produced 1.7 million tons of dates, contributing over 21 per cent of global date production, estimated at eight million tons, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.

Egypt’s date exports, however, are not on par with its ranking as the world’s top producer, and the countrywide scheme to increase exports by opening up new markets is bound to encounter severa
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Sedky Sakhr

In the realm of artistic pursuits, few stories are as captivating as the remarkable transformation of Sedky Sakhr. Originally a practising professional engineer, Sakhr fearlessly answered the call of his true passion to act and play music, and never looked back. In an exclusive interview with eniGma’s Farida Elserty, Sakhr recounts his extraordinary journey and discusses his upcoming projects. Prepare to be inspired by this fascinating story that serves as a reminder of the boundless possibiliti
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Amira Adeeb

Anyone who knows Amira Adeeb, the content creator turned actress, would be surprised at how she appears on screen as a ferocious princess. In real life, she is a sweet and spontaneous human being who is exceedingly passionate about what she does. She is also a great inspiration to her many followers on social media, as she is the first content creator to make merch in Egypt. eniGma’s Farida Elserty got to chat with the rising star about her unusual journey to success and the challenges she faced

Features & Interviews

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Lucida - AHMED BELTAGY’S NEWEST HOT SPOT

A fixture of Cairo’s social scene, prominent party planner Ahmed Beltagy has made a name for himself both in event planning and in creating amazing restaurants. Recently, Beltagy celebrated a new milestone in his impressive repertoire with the opening of Lucida Restaurant, a much-acclaimed addition to Cairo’s culinary landscape. In an exclusive interview with eniGma’s Farida Elserty, Beltagy shares his journey to success, and the challenges he’s faced along the way.
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Cedars-Sinai

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is a nonprofit, tertiary, 915-bed teaching hospital and multi-specialty academic health science centre located in Los Angeles, California, and offers world-class specialty care from expert physicians. eniGma’s Farida Elserty recently had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Heitham T. Hassoun, a distinguished Vascular Surgeon, Vice president, and Medical Director of Cedars-Sinai International. The conversation delved into his exceptional career, innovative approaches to
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Pioneering Palestinian Women

In the face of adversity and tumultuous times, trailblazing Palestinian women continue to write their names in the annals of history. With unwavering determination and unparalleled courage, they have excelled in many fields, shattering stereotypes, and leaving an indelible mark on the Arab world. From politics to arts, activism to entrepreneurship, these remarkable women have fearlessly pursued their passions, transforming obstacles into stepping stones, and redefining the narratives.
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The New Heroes of Gaza

Amid continuous bombing by Israel, journalists, photographers, and doctors in Gaza on the ground play a critical role as witnesses relaying to the world the amount of destruction and human suffering taking place.

The reports from these brave individuals have shown the world that thousands of Palestinians, about half of them children, have been killed and that water, medical supplies, electricity, and fuel have run out due to the siege of Gaza, resulting in a humanitarian disaster.
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5 Local Plus Size Clothing Shops to Keep on Your Radar

As a plus-size girl, I have always hated shopping. I have always hated feeling that nothing fits me. I have always hated that my body is not skinny enough to match the clothing industry’s standards. When I finally manage to find any plus-size clothing, they all seem to be crumbs of clothes. Unfortunately, the garment industry still considers plus-size clothing out of the normal. Hence, shopping was always a traumatizing experience for me for a long time.
Ahram Online •

Less than 1% of Egypt’s population HIV-positive: Health ministry - Health - Egypt

Marking International AIDS Day, the Ministry of Health and Population announced that Egypt is witnessing a significant decrease in the rate of HIV infection, with a prevalence rate of less than one percent.

International AIDS Day, recognised on 1 December annually, was first observed 1988 to raise awareness about this life-threatening disease.

To combat the HIV Epidemic, the health ministry established the National AIDS Program (NAP) almost 35 years ago when the first cases of HIV infection we
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Adam Afara

From the intimate to the grand, Adam Afara transforms ordinary occasions into extraordinary experiences. Renowned for his boundless creativity and meticulous attention to detail, eniGma turned to Afara once again for its prestigious eniGma 10th Celebration of Arab Glamour & Success in Los Angeles, and once again his incredible talent made the event a magical celebration. eniGma’s Farida Elserty had the chance to chat with Afara to uncover the secret to his success, one celebration at a time. Her
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Sherif Monir

Talented artist Sherif Monir’s paintings are known to reconceptualise human experiences through satire and irony, imparting a certain power and vitality to them. Recently, at eniGma’s Covers Reimagined event in June 2021, his brilliant rendition of Asala’s iconic cover demonstrated his unique skill and style and caught everyone’s attention. eniGma’s Farida Elserty got the chance to chat with the young artist about his artistic journey and how he got to where he is today. Find out what lies ahead

Video Interviews

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NOUR MORSHEDY - ENIGMA’S MARCH COVER SHOOT (THE FULL EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW)

Watch our exclusive sit-down with our March cover star, Nour El Morshedy, the powerhouse CEO of Morshedy Group and the only female CEO leading a major Egyptian real estate group. Nour is redefining leadership in the industry—all while balancing life as a mother of two.

In this candid conversation, she opens up about her bold leadership style, the challenges of breaking barriers, and the driving force behind her success. From navigating industry pressures to preserving the legacy built by her father, Mohamed Morshedy, Nour shares the highs, the hurdles, and the moments that shaped her journey.

She also gets personal—revealing her biggest fears, career-defining moments, and the advice she’d give her teenage self. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

📺 Watch the full interview now & visit our website for the full feature.
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MOHAMED FARRAG - STAR SPOTLIGHT (THE FULL EXCLUSIVE GFF INTERVIEW)

At El Gouna Film Festival, we enjoyed a great conversation with the talented Mohamed Farrag, who shared insights into the character he portrayed—a role that had a profound impact on him and resonated deeply with audiences.

Farrag also opens up about the most challenging characters he’s played and the immense effort he invested in bringing them to life. He answers all our questions, offering an inside look at his creative process, the stories behind his unforgettable performances, and many more. Don’t miss this chance to hear what he had to say!
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AHMED DAWOOD - ENIGMA’S MAY 2023 COVER SHOOT (THE FULL EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW)

Our cover star for this month’s Entertainment Issue, superstar Ahmed Dawood, has proven to be a force to be reckoned with, dazzling us with one iconic role after the other in both cinema and television over the past years.

In our exclusive video interview, Dawood opens up to eniGma about his new movie and how he prepared for his role.

Read the full interview on eniGma Website & in eniGma Magazine’s May issue, now available on newsstands.

Styling: Nada Hussam
Cover Story: Farida Elserty
Videographers: Sherif Youssef & Ahmed Abbas
Editing: Sherif Youssef
Assistant stylist: Ahmed Maher
Location: Astro Studio
PR: Carrots Company
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ENIGMA’S EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE FOR REEM & JOLLY'S HAUTE COUTURE COLLECTION

The founders and designers of the eye-catching luxury couture store, REEM & JOLLY, celebrated the launch of their new boutique in Egypt at the royal Abdeen Palace. The magical evening included an exclusive runway show of their Spring/Summer 2023 collection, followed by a musical performance by popular singer Ahmed Saad. The event was hosted by prominent media presenter Bousy Shalaby and was filled with a slew of celebrities, including superstars Sawsan Badr, Fifi Abdou, Safia El Emary, Soheir Ramzy, Donia Abelaziz, Rania Farid Shawky, Mais and Dana Hamdan, and Lebleba.
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ZEINA - AN INTERVIEW WITH ENIGMA’S 2022 NOVEMBER COVER STAR

Enigma Magazine had an absolute blast interviewing the superstar actress Zeina. As our cover star for the November Issue, @zeinareda29 wore some of the moment’s hottest trends for our exclusive shoot, as well as bearing it all in our exclusive interview feature talking about her inspirations, motherhood, and her career; just in time for our coveted Arab Women On Top Issue. Art Directing & Styling by @maissaazab & @sahar.m.azab Photography by @emadkassem_1 Make-up by @alaaeltonsy Hair by Islam, @alsagheersalons Cover Story by @faridaelserty Cover Design by @ehab_william24The shot was at @madaregypt, thanks a lot for everything!Dress by @laithmaalouf_official, Earrings by @mayarifai_official, and Ring by @mydiamondegypt
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HUDA EL MUFTI - AN INTERVIEW WITH ENIGMA’S SEPTEMBER 2022 COVER STAR

Our cover star this month, Huda El Mufti is without a doubt one of Egypt’s favourite rising stars. Between her stellar acting and stunning looks, El Mufti has won over our hearts. In our September issue, she stunned in this season’s biggest trends; right on time for our annual Fashion issue. Check out this video of Huda answering some fun rapid-fire questions during our exclusive interview with the incredible star.
Art directing & Styling by Maissa Azab & Sahar Azab @maissaazab @sahar.m.azab Photography by Ahmed Mobarez @ahmedmobarezz
Makeup by Shariff Tanyous @sharifftanyous
Hair by Ahmed Mounir & Á La Mode Salon @ahmed__mounir @alamode.salon
Cover Story by Farida El Serty @faridaelserty
Cover Design by Ehab William @ehab_william24
Set by Versace @versacejeanscoutoure available at @lecollezionieg

To read the full cover story, pick up your September issue now on newsstands or visit our website!

نجمة الغلاف لهذا العدد ، هدى المفتي هي بلا شك واحدة من النجوم الصاعدة المفضلة في مصر. بين تمثيلها الرائع وإطلالتها المذهلة ، استحوذت المفتي على قلوبنا. في عدد سبتمبر المخصص للموضة والأزياء ابهرتنا هدى المفتي بعدد من الاطلالات الرائعة ؛
شاهد هذا الفيديو لهدى وهي تجيب على بعض الأسئلة الممتعة السريعة خلال مقابلتنا الحصرية معها.