The SOMA MATER Podcast

The SOMA MATER Podcast Ep7 | LOWE | Zachary Roy

In this episode, Zachary Roy shares insights on sustainable gastronomy, the importance of transparency in the food system, and practical steps for restaurants to embrace sustainability. Discover how a Michelin Green Star restaurant integrates eco-friendly practices and educates guests about food provenance.

The SOMA MATER Podcast Ep 5 | Switch Foods | Edward Hamod

In this insightful interview, Edward Hamod, CEO of Switch Foods, shares his journey from traditional food industry roots to pioneering plant-based proteins in the MENA region. Discover the challenges, innovations, and strategic insights behind building a global food tech company focused on sustainability, local flavors, and food security.

The SOMA MATER Podcast Ep 4 | Part 2 | Silal Innovation Oasis | Dr Shamal Mohammed

In this conversation, Sheikh Dr Majid Al Qassimi speaks with Dr. Shamal Mohammed, CEO of Silal Innovation Oasis, about the intersection of technology and agriculture, the complexities of modern farming, and the role of innovation in ensuring food security in the UAE. Dr. Shamal shares his journey from geology to agriculture, emphasizing the importance of data and technology in decision-making processes. They discuss the unique challenges faced by farmers today and the need for a collaborative ecosystem that includes startups, academia, and policymakers. Looking ahead, Dr. Shamal outlines the vision for Silal Innovation Oasis as a global hub for agricultural innovation, focusing on sustainable practices and solutions to combat climate change.

The SOMA MATER Podcast Ep 4 | Part 1 | Silal Innovation Oasis | Dr Shamal Mohammed

In this conversation, Sheikh Dr Majid Al Qassimi speaks with Dr. Shamal Mohammed, CEO of Silal Innovation Oasis, about the intersection of technology and agriculture, the complexities of modern farming, and the role of innovation in ensuring food security in the UAE. Dr. Shamaal shares his journey from geology to agriculture, emphasizing the importance of data and technology in decision-making processes. They discuss the unique challenges faced by farmers today and the need for a collaborative ecosystem that includes startups, academia, and policymakers. Looking ahead, Dr. Shamaal outlines the vision for Silal Innovation Oasis as a global hub for agricultural innovation, focusing on sustainable practices and solutions to combat climate change.

The SOMA MATER Podcast Ep 3 | SY Partners | Rie Nørregaard

* 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.