A virtual space to huddle during self-isolation in Dubai

Top Stories

Ivy Dela Cruz
Ivy Dela Cruz

The brains behind Dubai health hub Beetle and Goliath talk about the impetus behind starting it

By Mahima Ann Ninan


  • Follow us on
  • google-news
  • whatsapp
  • telegram

Published: Tue 5 May 2020, 7:08 PM

Last updated: Tue 5 May 2020, 9:24 PM

Three driven women, and a boutique marketing agency with a quirky name. That's the story behind the UAE Health Hub.
Dubai-based content creators Diana Zavzeatii, Ivy Dela Cruz and Janelle Dela Cruz, felt they could introduce some productivity into the lives of UAE residents through their organisation 'Beetle and Goliath', during the self-isolation period. They created a virtual space focusing on health, nutrition, lifestyle, kids activities, well-being, tips on shopping, and mental health.
"The purpose of the hub is to bring people together by staying informed and engaged. It provides content that helps us make the most out of this unusual situation", says Diana, who also runs an Instagram blog (@busyavocado).
Launched on March 26, they have already had over 37 content creators collaborating with them, 640 members participating, and over 50 live sessions within a month.
Janelle says that "the interactive weekly show would keep the community engaged, wherein we do a Cook-Off Challenge, a Stay Fit Challenge and a Creative Kids Challenge, and contributors can win a prize from health-oriented brands who've been supporting the Hub and using this opportunity to give back to the society."
Kate Sheikh from Soul Space (@katesheikh_yoga), describes how she has grown through this journey. "I was invited by a friend who was already a part of the hub. It has really brought a community together during this time, and when I see certain names pop up for a live video, I feel like I know them, even though I have never met them. It has given people a sense of purpose and allows everyone to help in their own small way. I was terrified of teaching yoga or recording my meditation sessions before this, and this opportunity helped me overcome my fear. It also encourages people to try something they've never done before."
Zeina Maktabi, a nutritionist who goes by @upcloseandhealthy, told City Times, "As a Nutritionist, I was contacted to contribute to the page by hosting several live sessions covering topics such as Immunity Boosting Foods and Snacks to Boost Mood." Talking about how user-friendly the platform is, she adds, "It's easy to access and if you missed any live session, you can always watch it again at your own time."
Chef and food blogger (@shortgirlbakes) Deepika Shetty says, "It is a very supportive medium which helps talented people share their skills, and I am very happy to be part of this growing community."
Beetle and Goliath has created two other health-oriented ventures in the past, i.e. the Healthy School Squad, and the Health Is My Wealth Program. Anyone in the UAE who has a Facebook account can join the hub at
http://bit.ly/UAEHealthHub
citytimes@khaleejtimes.com

Janelle Dela Cruz
Janelle Dela Cruz
Diana Zavzeatii
Diana Zavzeatii

More news from