Latifa Al Gurg On Learning Through Mentoring and Overcoming Fear by Embracing New Experiences
The Founder and Creative Director of Dubai-based fashion brand, Twisted Roots, shares how her Emirati-Danish heritage, background in construction, and mindful approach to design marks her out as truly one of not many
Vacheron Constantin’s One of Not Many Mentorship Programme is a humbling example of what happens when a luxury maison gives back, thinking outside its traditional remit and into something truly wide-reaching and meaningful. Launched six months ago, the house brought together six Emirati women of phenomenal, multi-faceted skills – Alia Al Shamsi, Hala Al Gergawi, Latifa Al Gurg, Salama Al Shamsi, Noora Shawqi and Mouza Aldhaheri – for a scheme that would take six young female Emirati students from Zayed University under their wing, culminating in a six-month internship at either Vacheron Constantin or another Richemont maison.
The spirit of entrepreneurship runs deep in the UAE, as does talent and tenacity. Here, Bazaar celebrate bringing that all together for a bright, beautiful future as Latifa Al Gurg shares her own experience on learning through mentoring, overcoming negative narratives and her thoughts on the importance of supporting rising talent within the region.
Tell us how your involvement in the mentorship scheme began…
Hala Al Gergawi called me to introduce the concept of the mentorship idea, and I instantly fell in love with it. It’s a privilege to be part of such a wonderful project.
Why was it important to you to become a mentor in this scheme?
Being part of someone’s growth journey is incredibly valuable to me. Not only do you get to experience their immediate response to your particular experience, but you see their growth continue past your time with them.
What is the importance of having a mentor?
Having a mentor is so valuable to growth both professionally and personally. It’s a great resource to be able to gain insight from someone in the industry, as well as bounce ideas off someone who has your interest at heart. I’ve been lucky enough to have had quite a few who have all been really valuable throughout my journey.
What was the most valuable piece of advice they ever gave you?
To know your story and build your brand on strong foundations. Toby Meadows has been a fantastic mentor to me. I turned to him for advice in the infancy of Twisted Roots in 2012, and he has helped me immensely throughout. Our relationship has developed from mentor/mentee into one of colleagues, where we are able to share experiences and refer clients to each other.
What’s your mentee taught you through this process?
I’m so inspired by how open and adaptive she is. It has taught me how to look at things with a different perspective. It’s been an inspirational learning experience.
How do you hope the programme will make a difference in the industry at large?
It shines a light on the young, new talent that is rising in the region. It is important to keep them in mind and ensure that they are supported and nurtured to create an industry with a wealth of perspectives in the region.
What does the luxury industry in the Middle East need to do in order to thrive?
We need to support the fresh voices that are appearing on the scene. The region is unique in its make-up and its perspective and this is a valuable asset that should be utilised and exported in the luxury industry.
There are still many negative narratives around ambitious and assertive women. How do we overcome this?
Although there are many negative stereotypes, I do believe that people respect anyone who is con dent, assertive, yet respectful in their manner, and a good listener. I think that’s key to having your voice heard.
What are the three most important pieces of advice you want to teach your mentee?
Prepare, prepare, prepare. Don’t rush, enjoy the journey. Expect setbacks and learn from them.
What is your definition of female empowerment?
The freedom to pursue anything purely based on merit.
What personal skills do you think you bring to the mentorship programme?
One of my key strengths is systemising. I approach any daunting task by breaking it down into attainable goals and tasks, thus making it a little smoother.
How do you believe we can overcome fear of trying something new or speaking up?
By asking, “What will I learn from this experience?” There’s always something new to learn.
Tell us about a time you spoke up for yourself…
I speak up for myself every day by owning my values, living by them on a daily basis and being confident and assertive enough to stand by them.
Do you have a motto that has stuck with you throughout your career?
Life is a journey, not a destination.
How has your approach to design changed since the inception of your brand?
Design is ever-evolving, so although my approach has mainly been the same, the design concepts evolve every season based on what city or country we’re exploring. The pandemic has, of course, had its impact on how we design and has pushed us to find new ways of working and adapt to a much more digital world. Although it was stressful at the time, I do feel that at least this part has been a blessing in disguise.
What does luxury mean?
Something that has deep thought, sentiment and value within it.
Latifa wears: Égérie Moon Phase Watch in pink gold, Dhs130,000, Vacheron Constantin. Abaya, POA; Shayla, POA, both exclusive by Abeer Al Suwaidi. Rings, Latifa’s own
Editor in Chief: Olivia Phillips. Art Director: Oscar Yáñez. Fashion Director: Anna Castan. Photography: Greg Adamski. Make- up: Charlotte Tilbury. Manicure: Sisters Beauty Lounge. Styling Assistants: Shahira Hossameldin and Anusha Hattalmakki. Producer: Elle Hutchinson. Studio Manager: Johana Dana
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s May 2021 issue
