London, Asharq Al-Awsat – A magazine that speaks for young cosmopolitan Arabs living in Britain has finally become reality. Launched in early 2005, Sharq is an English language glossy featuring over a hundred pages of the best in fashion and lifestyle and is published bi-monthly from London.

According to its publisher, Sharq represents the freethinking and

intelligent sizeable British population of Arab origin. No other magazine focusing on the interests of over half a million Arabs living in Britain and the increasing numbers of people interested in Arab culture is currently on sale.

The magazine is the brainchild of Reem Maghiribi, aged 27, and is privately funded by her and a small group of friends, which allows the magazines total freedom in its style, content, and editorial policy. Sharq seeks to encourage and assist the new generation of Arabs living in Britain to integrate into society whilst maintaining their pride in their roots. &#34The need for ethnic minorities to integrate has long been a concern of the government,&#34 she added. &#34Sharq hopes to inform Arabs and Britons of the positive contributions of Arab men and women living in the United Kingdom,

so often forgotten or unreported.&#34 Indeed, the July/August issue featured Iraqi born British world champion kick-boxer, Riyadh al Azzawi.

Unlike other magazines, Sharq used the feedback from its first issue to conduct its research and development. &#34It was about going out to our readers and requesting feedback. Based on the response we received, the layout and content were slightly modified. Feedback was for the large part very positive and encouraging.&#34

Although still in its infancy, the magazine has proven very popular and plans to distribute it nationally and internationally have been put forward. Sharq is now available across Britain, from Aberdeen to York. Figures for the July/August issues reveal a near sellout of copies at newsstands.

Subscribers live as far as the Middle East and North America with

wholesalers in Canada and Dubai interested in importing it.

As for advertising, many clients and agencies have already contacted Sharq to publicize their products. &#34We are using the stereotype that Arabs are wealthy to our advantage&#34.

Motivated by a sense of urgency, Maghribi sought to establish a magazine that would &#34combine what the Arab community needs and what is marketable&#34.

On the subject of the Arab community living in Britain, and the identity crisis some might experience in light of their minority status, Maghribi is adamant both cultures ought to be embraced. “We need to understand what it means to be British and Arab and not feel alienated from our heritage otherwise we risk losing it completely.” Many of the older generation failed to realize they will “spending the rest of their lives in Britain and raising their children there.” As such, Maghribi believes, “They need to understand the workings of the country socially and politically and integrate into mainstream society, whether than means being involved with local politics or setting up a football team. The important thing is to contribute to society.”