In case you haven’t heard, there’s a gal in Dubai making *major* waves. Armenian-American, Taleen Marie, is a fitness expert, entrepreneur, and a founding shareholder and creative advisory board member for much-loved beauty brand, Ctzn Cosmetics. We caught up with this savvy self-starter and found out that not only does she have a lot going for her, but she’s a real girl’s girl too. Pour yourself a cuppa and keep reading to find out more about Cosmo ME’s new bff.
A natural born star
Let’s start by pressing pause and backtracking to the beginning. Taleen Marie grew up in “a loving and supportive home.” She was born with a beautiful singing voice and her parents recognised their daughter was exceptionally gifted. “My mom made it her job to do whatever it took to reach my goals.”
“At nine years old, I began singing professionally with the Washington Opera and had the honour of sharing the stage with world renown tenors like Placido Domingo. After six operas, I had the privilege of singing for Pope John Paul II during his historic visit to the Holy Land.” To keep her life as “normal as possible, Taleen Marie kept my career to myself. Only my close friends and family knew of my extracurricular endeavours and my ambitions to pursue music professionally.”
If that’s not impressive enough, at the age of 17, Taleen Marie landed a publishing deal with Jaimie Foxx. Soon after she moved to Los Angeles and began to “write and record over a hundred songs with Grammy winning producers and songwriters. My songs have been featured in commercials, reality TV shows, and one landed in the Top 40 charts.”
Life in Dubai
Taleen Marie made music in LA until her early twenties. In 2014, she made the big move halfway around the world for love. As for Taleen Marie’s fav Dubai spots, she hits up the Mall of the Emirates when she needs to go shopping. She’s equally a fan of glam Dubai nights as she is as hitting the pillow and catching some zzz’s. For those nights out, you can find her dining at Loren, Zuma, and Il Borro. As far as traveling goes, she’s looking forward to planning upcoming trips to Japan, Australia, and South Africa.
While desert dwelling, Taleen Marie felt inspired to “empower women to take control of their bodies. Fitness has always played an integral part in my life. Growing up, I played sports and stayed active.” While a movement-oriented mindset has shaped Taleen Marie’s life, as an adult she became aware of the importance of her mental well-being, too. Always a go-getter, Taleen Marie made it her mission to further advance her education so she could share her wisdom with others. Shortly afterwards, she was proud to be certified in both physical training and nutrition.
Talfitness
Harnessing powerhouse vibes from her entrepreneurial spirit, Taleen Marie began her wellness-based business, Talfitness. Within her biz, she offers personal one-on-one training and group bootcamps. Although Talfitness is for everyone, Taleen Marie emphasises it focuses on mothers.
“Once I had my first child, after three miscarriages and an emergency c-section, I was hit with extreme postpartum depression and anxiety. My only outlet was fitness. This shaped the trajectory of Talfitness. Now, I am working on tailormade digital fitness programs for new mothers (mommy makeovers) to reclaim their individual identities outside of motherhood. Through nutrition, fitness, and mental wellness this can be achieved. My program will consist of a 12-week transformative journey. Eventually, I will open my own fitness studio in Dubai that will also provide wellness retreats for postpartum mothers around the world.”
We’re ngl, we love to indulge on weekend brunches, ladies’ nights, and the occasional Sunday roast. Let’s face it, Dubai is famous for them. Does this mean we have to stop? “I don’t believe in diets or life restrictions. For me, it’s more about a lifestyle and less about cutting “fun” out of your life. I always tell my clients it’s about balance. If you want a mocktail, have it. If you want chocolate, go for it. Life is short and we only get one shot at it. When you restrict yourself, you end up doing more harm in the long run. Just be mindful but always enjoy the moment.”
What’s next
As if she’s not busy already with her life as a mum, Talfitness, CTZN Cosmetics, and her new digital fitness programs, Taleen Marie is also in the works of starting the first active wear makeup line in the GCC. Get excited because production will begin in Milan later this year.
To keep up with Taleen Marie, follow her here.