Jawaher Alfardan, widely known as Joujou, is a dynamic force driving the wellness revolution in Qatar. As the founder of Niya Yoga and co-founder of Evergreen Organics, she is at the forefront of transforming the way people in Doha approach health, well-being, and sustainability. With a vision to create spaces that promote holistic living, Jawaher’s journey reflects her deep passion for wellness, personal growth, and environmental consciousness.
Early Life and Personal Growth
Born into the esteemed Al Fardan family, Jawaher was exposed to a range of cultures, philosophies, and experiences from an early age. Raised in an environment that encouraged education and exploration, she developed an interest in human behavior, which led her to pursue a degree in psychology. While studying psychology, Jawaher realized that true well-being is not just about mental health; it is about embracing a balanced life that integrates the body, mind, and spirit. This realization set her on a path of personal discovery and transformation, where she sought ways to live a more holistic and mindful life.
Her journey into wellness was further enriched by her experiences traveling around the world. Motivated by the desire to deepen her knowledge, Jawaher went on to complete over 500 hours of training in yoga across renowned centers in the United States, Indonesia, and India. She became a certified yoga instructor and quickly realized that yoga was more than just a physical practice for her—it was a tool for emotional healing, mental clarity, and spiritual awakening.
The Birth of Niya Yoga
In 2016, Jawaher took a bold step towards her mission of promoting holistic health by opening Niya Yoga in Doha’s Qanat Quartier. The name “Niya” is derived from the Arabic word for “intention,” which perfectly encapsulates the ethos of the studio. Niya Yoga was designed to be more than just a yoga studio; it was to be a sanctuary where people could connect with their inner selves and find peace in their fast-paced lives.
At Niya Yoga, Jawaher offers a wide range of classes, from traditional yoga and meditation sessions to mindfulness practices and wellness workshops. The studio has become a thriving community for individuals who are eager to cultivate balance in their lives through physical activity, mental clarity, and spiritual nourishment. With over 35 weekly classes and regular workshops led by international instructors, Niya Yoga offers an inclusive space for people of all backgrounds to explore the transformative power of yoga.
What sets Niya Yoga apart from other fitness centers is its holistic approach to wellness. The studio encourages not only physical fitness but also emotional and mental well-being. Jawaher’s focus is on creating a welcoming environment where individuals can develop their practice, embrace mindfulness, and find a deeper connection to themselves. Through the practice of yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness techniques, Niya Yoga fosters personal growth, empowerment, and self-awareness.
Evergreen Organics: A Commitment to Plant-Based Living
Alongside Niya Yoga, Jawaher co-founded Evergreen Organics, Qatar’s first fully vegan café. Evergreen Organics reflects Jawaher’s commitment to sustainability, healthy living, and mindful eating. Located adjacent to the yoga studio, the café offers a wide range of organic, plant-based dishes that nourish both the body and soul. From smoothies and salads to hearty bowls and desserts, Evergreen Organics provides fresh and nutritious options that cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
The concept behind Evergreen Organics is rooted in the belief that food plays a vital role in overall wellness. Jawaher’s goal was to create a space where people could enjoy healthy, flavorful meals while supporting sustainable food practices. Evergreen Organics sources its ingredients from local, organic farms and strives to minimize its environmental footprint by using eco-friendly packaging and reducing waste.
The café has become a hub for the community, offering a relaxed environment where individuals can connect with like-minded people, share ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations about health and sustainability. For Jawaher, Evergreen Organics is more than just a café; it is a space where people can learn about the benefits of plant-based living and the importance of making conscious choices for both personal health and the planet.
Philosophy: A Holistic Approach to Wellness
Jawaher’s philosophy is rooted in the concept of “wholeness,” which she defines as the integration of the body, mind, and spirit. She believes that true wellness comes from a balanced approach to life, where individuals prioritize their physical health, mental well-being, and emotional fulfillment. Through her initiatives, Jawaher aims to create environments that promote self-awareness, mindfulness, and personal growth.
For Jawaher, yoga is not just about physical postures; it is about cultivating a deep connection with oneself and being present in the moment. By practicing mindfulness and meditation alongside physical movement, individuals can achieve greater clarity, peace, and resilience in their daily lives. Her teachings encourage individuals to embrace their authentic selves and live in alignment with their values, passions, and purpose.
Jawaher’s focus on holistic living extends beyond yoga and nutrition. She actively promotes sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, supporting ethical businesses, and making conscious choices that benefit both individuals and the planet. Her work emphasizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of life, encouraging people to take responsibility for their health, their environment, and their relationships with others.
Community Engagement and Future Vision
Jawaher’s impact extends far beyond her businesses. She is deeply committed to building a wellness community that fosters collaboration, education, and inspiration. Through events, workshops, and collaborations with like-minded individuals and organizations, Jawaher continues to spread her message of holistic living and environmental sustainability.
In addition to her work with Niya Yoga and Evergreen Organics, Jawaher is also involved in a variety of community initiatives. She partners with local organizations to promote wellness and sustainability, and she actively participates in discussions about how to create a more mindful, healthy, and sustainable future for Qatar and beyond.
Looking ahead, Jawaher plans to continue expanding her initiatives and influence. She hopes to inspire more people to embrace a holistic lifestyle, one that prioritizes well-being, sustainability, and personal growth. Her long-term vision is to create a network of wellness spaces across Qatar and the Middle East, where individuals can connect, learn, and grow in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Conclusion
Jawaher Alfardan’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and making a positive impact on the world. Through her work with Niya Yoga and Evergreen Organics, she has created spaces that promote holistic living, healthy eating, and mindfulness. Her dedication to wellness, sustainability, and community has made her a leading figure in Qatar’s wellness movement, and her influence continues to grow.
In a world that is constantly changing, Jawaher’s message of balance, self-care, and conscious living is more relevant than ever. By embracing a holistic approach to life, she has empowered countless individuals to take control of their health and well-being, and she continues to inspire others to live with intention, purpose, and mindfulness. Through her work, Jawaher Alfardan is helping to shape a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
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