Paying tribute to the man who inspired her own creative spirit and drive on the occasion of Father’s Day, Nadine Jewellery founder and designer, Nadine Attar sat down for an exclusive one-on-one interview with her Dad discussing business, inspiration, family and friendship.

Nadine: How would you describe yourself in three words?
Nadine’s Father: Continuously forgiving, passionate, positive.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I used to aspire to become an Air Force pilot.

How does what you wanted to be compare to the career path you followed?

The career path I wanted was of course totally different, yet what I am in right now is immensely dynamic.

What made you most successful in your career?

My continuous ambition to achieve. I always have a positive view, and I work hard to get what I want. I never start a task with a negative vibe.

How do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration from the Quraan. Whenever I’m in distress, I start reading, and I feel that I find the answers that I am searching for.

What is your earliest memory of your childhood?

I was a champion gymnast; a sprint runner, and won first place at 12 years old. I achieved 13.4 seconds at a 100 meter dash, when the world champion at that time won at 10 seconds.

What is your favourite memory of me as a child?

The time when you used to rush to embrace me as I step into our home from work.

Looking back now, did you ever envision I would become a jewellery designer as I am today?

Because of your successful banking career, I envisioned you to become a CEO of a bank. You are in general an achiever and have high attention to detail. However, what you have achieved in the jewellery field superseded my expectations.

What do you enjoy most about being a father?

I enjoy advising, coaching and mentoring my children. Hopefully, they always listen and trust Dad’s judgement 😛

What traditions did your father pass on to you that you have passed on to my siblings and me?

Firstly, Being close to family. I do my best to teach my kids to keep their family relations close even if they are not on good terms. My father’s house had always been full of family members and friends; he was always the host; he kept his home open.

Secondly, entrepreneurship. All my kids learned from me having a business mind.

What’s the best advice you remember receiving from your father?

To be generous to the ultimate without expecting a return.

What advice would you give 18 year-old me if you had to do it all over again?

Patience, to be happy, and to recite Quran daily.

What is your favourite quote?

ان الله يحب المحسنين

It means to always behave in goodness and kindness not waiting for validation.

Which city is your most favourite to travel to?

Cairo. I went to school there; it always has a special place in my heart.

What did life teach you the most?

To trust and have faith in Allah, to always honor your parents, and to keep your life and work private; assign your work to good skillful and faithful individuals.

What three events or situations that most shaped your personality?

Studying in Cairo, I was in a good school; also playing gymnastics, and my social interaction with people. I enjoy socializing.

What do you think the world needs more of right now?

Knowledge, hard work, and integrity. We need to always keep in mind that in life we are in transit; we should do the best we can before we leave.

What would your final message be?

Only good deeds last eternally.