• In this episode of the SOMA Modern Podcast, Majid's Shot welcomes Rhee Norgo, a venture partner and founder of S.Y. Partners, Mina. Rhee shares her unique background in design and her journey into nature-based rehabilitation and health promotion. She emphasizes the importance of direct experience with nature for personal and societal well-being, highlighting how environments can influence our relationships and mental health. Rhee discusses her studies at the University of Copenhagen, where she explores the intersection of landscape design and therapeutic practices, particularly in the context of stress and recovery.
• The conversation delves into the theories underpinning nature-based rehabilitation, including the attention restoration theory and the benefits of natural environments on recovery rates. Rhee and Majid discuss the significance of storytelling in leadership and the role of art in nature settings, emphasizing the need for multi-stakeholder engagement to tackle complex societal challenges. They conclude by reflecting on the potential for innovation in the Middle East, driven by its unique environmental challenges and the importance of legacy in shaping future generations.

In this conversation, Osama Al-Muqbel, CTO of Seafood Souq, discusses the challenges and innovations in the seafood industry. He highlights the importance of digitization and traceability in improving the seafood supply chain, addressing issues like mislabeling and sustainability. The conversation covers the technological solutions offered by Seafood Souq, including their three main products: SFS Fisheries, SFS Trace, and SFS Audit. Osama emphasizes the need for transparency and regulatory improvements to support local fishermen and enhance food security.

In this episode, we explore with Yazen Al Kodmani the GM at Emirates Bio Farm, the evolving landscape of agriculture in the UAE, focusing on hydroponics, vertical farming, and the critical role of technology in enhancing food security. The conversation delves into the dynamics between retailers and local farmers, the challenges posed by climate and market conditions, and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders. We also discuss the need for better education on food policy and the significance of traceability in food sourcing, highlighting the unique agricultural context of the UAE. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of agriculture in the UAE, focusing on the challenges and innovations in local farming, the importance of consumer preferences for organic produce, and the role of technology in enhancing agricultural practices. They emphasize the need for collaboration among farmers, retailers, and consumers to build trust in local products and ensure sustainability in food systems. The discussion also highlights the significance of education and awareness in promoting local sourcing and the potential for innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by the agricultural sector.