Metanoia, Founder

Metanoia is a philanthropist, author, entrepreneur, influencer, homemaker and CEO of Awakening.

Born in the UAE and raised in a traditional family with a strong focus on education, Metanoia's promising academic career was shattered when her sister met with an accident. With the family’s attention shifted to her sister’s recovery, Metanoia stepped into the role of mother for her two younger brothers at the age of just 16. As a result of this family tragedy, she learned how to embrace life in all aspects, both the good and the challenging. As she says, 'you must always remember that you have a choice, you are the architect of your life.'

Metanoia went on to complete her undergraduate program with a Distinction in Media and Communication. She has a Doctorate in Naturopathy and has a passion for holistic wellness, communication, openness and reflection. After working for a media house, she decided to follow her true dream of helping others to live life to their full potential, using her experience to help others.

Dr. Asma Naheed, Educational Psychologist, Special Needs Consultant, Life Coach, Public Speaker and Chief Operations Officer for Awakening. 

Based in the UAE, Dr. Asma is an experienced educational psychologist specialising in educational and wellbeing. With a post-graduate degree from George Mason University in Fairfax VA, USA, Dr Asma has 20 years’ experience providing services in a variety of educational and non-educational settings including schools, clinics, residential treatment, home-bound, and day treatment programs both in the United States and Abu Dhabi. In addition to treating private clients, Dr. Asma also teaches short courses in universities and colleges and conducts workshops for doctors, teachers, parents and professionals involved with mental health in the UAE and Pakistan, and leads a pro-bono mental health service for women called ‘Hope and Light’ at the Pakistani Embassy.

Dr. Asma also uses her skills as a life coach, working with executives and VIP clients on personal development and emotional wellbeing, and is often invited to speak on TV and radio all over the world on the subject of mental health. 

Elle Blakeman, Editor

Elle is an award-winning journalist and editor based in London.

After studying law at University, Elle went on to get a masters degree in journalism and has worked at some of the industry's top publications including Harper's Bazaar, InStyle and Marie Claire.

In 2014, she moved to the UAE to work at Grazia Arabia, and upon returning to London,  launched her own publishing house, producing bespoke luxury print titles. 

Today, Elle publishes the biannual magazine for Claridge's hotel, in addition to Awakening Magazine, and also contributes to several high-end publications including The Times, The Telegraph and MINE magazine.