For those who frequent the urban creative community, you’ve definitely seen him around. He’s a familiar face, always showing up at events and personably chatting with everyone around him. He’s a creative-of-all-trades who’s been contributing to the community in different ways over the past 15 years. He’s everyone’s biggest supporter, and holds a genuine interest in Kuwait’s culture and creativity, vehemently believing in the growth and opportunities the country has in this field, and he’s constantly cheering everyone who’s a part of it on. He is Khaled AlZawawi.

To most, he’s known as the Instagram style identity Zouch Fashion. He’s also known as one of the pioneering male stylists and men’s fashion bloggers in Kuwait, making his way into the blogosphere in 2008 before graduating to City Pages in 2012 as a fashion editor and stylist. “I was one of the first men to talk about fashion in Kuwait on print, opening a world of fashion for men here.” And open it he did! He paved the way for men to embrace modern style with confidence and thoughtfulness, contributing to making Kuwait as stylish as it already is.

Although his work in the local fashion industry is ongoing on Khaled’s list, he’s also invested in other parts of Kuwait’s creative community. Whether it be his latest venture in the food and beverage industry, with the opening of two concepts, both collaborations with partners, sandwich joint Sloppy Moe’s and Cereal Bar CRL. “The local F&B scene is very relevant to the creative community, because being creative is not only about making visual art or music – also, we are all connected and we all collaborate with one another.” This is evident as even when Sloppy Moe’s was a pipe dream staged in a truck, the partners found themselves slinging sandwiches parked off to the sidelines of Qout Market in early 2014. But having a venue gives the familiar face and longtime supporter of the community a reason to give back. “I want both Sloppy Moe’s and CRL to be a space supportive of the arts. Our friends in the community are welcome to use both spaces to host collaborative events – do whatever you want to do! We’ll be there.”

But the question remains: how does Khaled find the time to do it all? From fashion blogger and Instagrammer, having his own clothing line, videography (“please don’t call me a videographer,” he humbly interjects) his credits conducting past NUQAT conferences, to the opening of two original, local concepts. He has so much on his plate, on top of his day job as an accountant! “It’s a choice, and a possibility! You have 24 hours in a day – why not use them wisely? People choose to go home after work, sleep, then go out at night for their fix of coffees and chatter with their friends – I choose to utilize my time a little differently.” Yes, he’s always on the go, but it’s opened up a whole smorgasbord for him to explore – and evidentially, he dove in!

As busy as Khaled is with his multitasking and quality time spent with different aspects oft he creative community, he managed to take a break from the hustle and bustle of his activity filled-world to answer some additional questions.

Truth or Dare questionnaire

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Stubborn.

How would you describe your mother in one word?

Understanding.

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?

Why do I look the way I look?

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Travelling to Dubai for less than 24 hours for pleasure.

What is your theme song?

“Changes” – Tupac Shakur

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Khaled (my name!)

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

In a mansion on an island next to Manhattan.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

“Kill them with success” -Unknown

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Black panther.

What do you miss about your childhood?

Discussions with my grandfather.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I wouldn’t change it.

How would you describe your handshake in one word?

Gentle.

What is the toughest part of your character?

Straightforwardness.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Michael Jackson.

What in the world do you least desire?

Disrespect.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?

Brains.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

I’m easy to talk to. (Only if you know me!)

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”

Food.

Follow Khaled on Instagram @not.a.designer and follow him as Zouch Fashion @zouchfashion for daily style inspiration.