'The sky is not the limit'

How do you typically start your workday?
I start with one hour of sport every day. It's usually kickboxing with my trainer or yoga. Kickboxing gives me incredible energy and strength while yoga calms and grounds me. It's a very good balance.

What is your favourite thing about your job?
The creative aspect of it. I love brewing new ideas and concepts, implementing them and watching them take on a life of their own. It's like childbirth - after months of pregnancy, you discover the face of that baby you have been carrying all along, and you forget the nausea of the first months.

In your workday, what is the one thing you cannot do without?
My morning smoothie! I will always have my smoothie made with almond milk and a bunch of greens, or raw cocoa, depending on my mood. It's the perfect breakfast-to-go, packed with vitamins and minerals. I need it after my morning workout and can't start the day without it.

Most challenging project to date.
All projects have their challenges and risks. When I decided to open Comptoir 102, a concept store mixing fashion, accessories, home furniture and decoration, people told me "it will never work". When I decided to open Cafe 102, one of the very first restaurants in Dubai serving organic and healthy food, people warned me: "No one will come". When I pushed the idea further for Wild & the Moon, a juice bar and restaurant which is 100 per cent organic and plant-based, people thought I was just plain crazy.
But all have been a success. Sometimes you just have to go against the grain and believe
in yourself.

One scent that you absolutely cannot get enough of?
The smell of nature - whether it's that of the ocean or the crisp mountain air.

Who's your role model as the perfect professional?
I generally admire those who fight for others, for ideas, and  also people who save lives. The ones who accomplish their dreams, who try to change things and shake up convention. I have always admired audacity and perseverance.

Your favourite indulgence when you need a break from work.
When I am in Dubai, I take a walk on the beach after work. I need it to get rid of tension and recharge my energy. When I'm in Europe, I go hiking in the mountains - that's where I grew up, surrounded by nature. I get my most creative ideas up there.

What is the last thing you usually do before you go to sleep?
I read a book.

What is your greatest dream, professionally?
I want good and healthy food to become as common as junk food. My dream is to make Wild & the Moon an organic and healthy Starbucks.

Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Take risks, follow your instinct and work hard for what you want. The sky is not the limit, there are footsteps on the moon.
- Staff reporter