The Team
Phoenix Media & Publications
Jane Barraclough
Founder & Managing Director
Jane Barraclough
Founder & Managing Director
Jane is a brand marketeer with over 30 years of experience. She is the owner and founder of Phoenix Media & Publishing FZ LLC and founder of Yalla – Abu Dhabi Life Magazine, published in Abu Dhabi for the last seven years. Jane started her career in London with an award-winning advertising agency where she created national brand campaigns for high-profile FMCGs, destination, and lifestyle brands. Key clients included Carlsberg-Tetley, Lavazza and Tesco. She also spent three years working for the broadcaster, Sky UK, as a key member of the brand marketing team.
Jane moved to the Middle East in 2005 and has over 10 years of experience in publishing and communications across the region. Phoenix Media & Publications has now become a leading UAE publisher with print and multi-digital platforms.
Her passion is for travel with her ambition to visit every country in the world, she loves Abu Dhabi which she calls her home. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, photography and many sports.
Jane moved to the Middle East in 2005 and has over 10 years of experience in publishing and communications across the region. Phoenix Media & Publications has now become a leading UAE publisher with print and multi-digital platforms.
Her passion is for travel with her ambition to visit every country in the world, she loves Abu Dhabi which she calls her home. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, photography and many sports.
- Email:yalla@yallauae.ae
Shane Reynolds
Deputy Editor
Shane Reynolds
Deputy Editor
Shane Reynolds is an experienced journalist and recently appointed Deputy Editor at Yalla, where he brings over a decade of editorial expertise to the team.
Originally from Ireland, Shane began his career at the Roscommon People—a prominent regional newspaper with a readership of around 60,000. From 2011 to 2015, he held the role of Deputy Editor. During this time, he also contributed as a freelance writer to several of Ireland’s leading national publications.
Afterward, Shane broadened his horizons by moving to the UAE, spending seven years in the education sector at respected international institutions. Despite the career shift, his passion for storytelling and journalism endured, ultimately leading him back to the newsroom.
Now, as Deputy Editor at Yalla, Shane plays a vital role in shaping content strategy and maintaining editorial standards, drawing on his rich background in both local and international media.
Afterward, Shane broadened his horizons by moving to the UAE, spending seven years in the education sector at respected international institutions. Despite the career shift, his passion for storytelling and journalism endured, ultimately leading him back to the newsroom.
Now, as Deputy Editor at Yalla, Shane plays a vital role in shaping content strategy and maintaining editorial standards, drawing on his rich background in both local and international media.
Keya Roy
Art Director
Keya Roy
Art Director
Keya graduated from the prestigious Maryland Institute College of Art, in the United States and started her design career in New York City over 20 years ago. She secured the role of Creative Director in the Dow Jones company, where she managed a global team of designers, spanning Hong Kong, New York and London working with products such as The Wall Street Journal and Barron’s. The creative force behind numerous successful global marketing campaigns, which included Time Square billboards, advertising and social media marketing, Keya managed the creative direction of corporate events and conferences across the globe and ensured a consistent brand voice and visual language throughout the company. After a successful corporate career she moved to Abu Dhabi with her neuroscientist husband and daughter. Her love for design enticed her to launch a freelance career. She now works for various clients which include Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, New York University Abu Dhabi as well as Yalla – Abu Dhabi Life magazine.
Keya was approached by Jane Barraclough of Phoenix Media & Publications with the idea of creating a brand new luxury life-style magazine for the UAE. Working closely with Jane and Derek, she designed the complete look and feel of Yalla — Abu Dhabi Life print magazine. She takes great pleasure in Art Directing and designing the magazine each month.
Keya loves all things arts and culture. She frequents art galleries and takes in concerts and shows whenever she can. She also loves to travel the globe and take in nature. From camping in the Arabian desert to hiking in the Redwood forests in the US to swimming with elephants in Thailand, Keya feels the force as a huge Star Wars fan and loves science fiction.
Keya was approached by Jane Barraclough of Phoenix Media & Publications with the idea of creating a brand new luxury life-style magazine for the UAE. Working closely with Jane and Derek, she designed the complete look and feel of Yalla — Abu Dhabi Life print magazine. She takes great pleasure in Art Directing and designing the magazine each month.
Keya loves all things arts and culture. She frequents art galleries and takes in concerts and shows whenever she can. She also loves to travel the globe and take in nature. From camping in the Arabian desert to hiking in the Redwood forests in the US to swimming with elephants in Thailand, Keya feels the force as a huge Star Wars fan and loves science fiction.
Estee Kershof
Director PR & Communications
Estee Kershof
Director PR & Communications
With over a decade of experience shaping narratives in the luxury media landscape, Estee has honed her craft as an editor for prestigious titles such as Condé Nast, Elle Decoration, and Time Out.
Beyond publishing, her expertise extends into public relations. She has several years of experience in Africa and the Middle East, where she worked with consumer and corporate clients in the luxury development, hospitality, education, retail, and F&B sectors.
Now, as Director of PR and Communications at Mangrove Marketing, Estee offers her extensive media knowledge and communication skills to help clients create content and experiences that authentically capture their brand’s ethos. For this, she dives deep into research, blending storytelling with strategic insights to engage audiences and elevate brands.
Passionate about storytelling, strategy, and the power of a well-placed narrative, Estee thrives on creating content that not only informs but inspires.
When not plying her trade, she enjoys spending time with her family, singing lullabies in a not-so-finely-tuned voice to her toddler, reading, cooking, travelling, and pursuing her other creative talent - floristry.
Beyond publishing, her expertise extends into public relations. She has several years of experience in Africa and the Middle East, where she worked with consumer and corporate clients in the luxury development, hospitality, education, retail, and F&B sectors.
Now, as Director of PR and Communications at Mangrove Marketing, Estee offers her extensive media knowledge and communication skills to help clients create content and experiences that authentically capture their brand’s ethos. For this, she dives deep into research, blending storytelling with strategic insights to engage audiences and elevate brands.
Passionate about storytelling, strategy, and the power of a well-placed narrative, Estee thrives on creating content that not only informs but inspires.
When not plying her trade, she enjoys spending time with her family, singing lullabies in a not-so-finely-tuned voice to her toddler, reading, cooking, travelling, and pursuing her other creative talent - floristry.
Anoushka Variava
PR and Social Media Executive
Anoushka Variava
PR and Social Media Executive
Born and raised in Abu Dhabi, Anoushka has been part of the marketing world since graduating in 2021. What began as an interest in photography naturally evolved into a full-fledged career in marketing. She quickly picked up skills in digital marketing and content creation, sharpening her strengths in communication and people management along the way.
Over the years, Anoushka has continued to grow in the digital space and recently found her stride in the world of PR. With over a year of hands-on experience, she’s adapted quickly and confidently to the fast-paced rhythm of the media industry.
Currently working as a PR and Social Media Executive at Mangrove Marketing, Anoushka is all about DnD — drafting and distributing press releases — while ensuring her clients receive maximum coverage through smart media placements and impactful influencer collaborations. She manages influencer reviews, builds lasting relationships with media and creators, and genuinely enjoys every part of the process. A true social media enthusiast, she jumps at any opportunity to create engaging content and bring brand stories to life online.
Outside of work, Anoushka is always on the lookout for new spots to explore. Whether it’s a quirky café or an offbeat event, she makes it a goal to try something new every week — solo or with family. With a love for discovery and a sprinkle of excitement, she’s on a mission to uncover Abu Dhabi’s hidden gems, one experience at a time.
Over the years, Anoushka has continued to grow in the digital space and recently found her stride in the world of PR. With over a year of hands-on experience, she’s adapted quickly and confidently to the fast-paced rhythm of the media industry.
Currently working as a PR and Social Media Executive at Mangrove Marketing, Anoushka is all about DnD — drafting and distributing press releases — while ensuring her clients receive maximum coverage through smart media placements and impactful influencer collaborations. She manages influencer reviews, builds lasting relationships with media and creators, and genuinely enjoys every part of the process. A true social media enthusiast, she jumps at any opportunity to create engaging content and bring brand stories to life online.
Outside of work, Anoushka is always on the lookout for new spots to explore. Whether it’s a quirky café or an offbeat event, she makes it a goal to try something new every week — solo or with family. With a love for discovery and a sprinkle of excitement, she’s on a mission to uncover Abu Dhabi’s hidden gems, one experience at a time.
Rolando Tan Jr.
Senior Social Media Specialist
Rolando Tan Jr.
Senior Social Media Specialist
Roltan has been based in the UAE since 2009, beginning his career in the hospitality industry before making a successful transition into marketing. In 2021, he ventured into content creation, initially as a hobby. However, what started casually soon gained traction, with a steadily growing following in Abu Dhabi. Today, he continues to share his experiences through Instagram Reels, driven by a strong passion for digital storytelling and authentic content.
His role at Phoenix Media & Publications as a Senior Social Media Specialist involves developing and executing content strategies tailored to enhance audience engagement and brand visibility. From planning to production, Roltan is deeply involved in the creative process—curating high-quality, relevant content that resonates with target audiences. With a deep understanding of digital trends and platform dynamics, he contributes meaningfully to the brand’s social media growth and presence.
Outside of work, Roltan enjoys quiet time at home with his two cats. When not out filming or editing content, he prefers to unplug and recharge—valuing balance between his online creativity and offline downtime.
Tanveer Hussain
Senior Digital, Web & SEO Wizard
Tanveer Hussain
Senior Digital, Web & SEO Wizard
Tanveer is our tech-savvy, resident digital expert who is completely in love with the web and all its wonders. With a background in Business Management, he has extensive experience developing a digital presence for government bodies and multiple brands across Pakistan and the UAE. After 10 years of experience in Digital Marketing, Web Development and SEO, managing brands and publications is now second nature to him.
Given the name 'Digital, Web and SEO wizard' by everybody in the office, Tanveer's role at Phoenix Media revolves around developing UI/ UX, running digital campaigns and optimising content to make it rank. His daily routine involves working on digital strategies, analysing reports, identifying trends and all-round troubleshooting.
When not talking about digital advances, you'll find Tanveer nerding over history. Not much of a talker at first, his weekends are all about roaming the streets of the UAE and exploring multi-cultural cuisines while snapping all the beauty around.
Given the name 'Digital, Web and SEO wizard' by everybody in the office, Tanveer's role at Phoenix Media revolves around developing UI/ UX, running digital campaigns and optimising content to make it rank. His daily routine involves working on digital strategies, analysing reports, identifying trends and all-round troubleshooting.
When not talking about digital advances, you'll find Tanveer nerding over history. Not much of a talker at first, his weekends are all about roaming the streets of the UAE and exploring multi-cultural cuisines while snapping all the beauty around.
Jeandy Soriano
Social Media Executive
Jeandy Soriano
Social Media Executive
Jeandy's journey into the digital world began early on in her career when she discovered her fascination with the intersection of technology and communication. She quickly gained expertise in digital marketing, content creation and social media management. Over the years, Jeandy has continued to hone her skills and expand her knowledge, keeping up with the latest trends and technologies in the industry.
As part of her role at Phoenix Media and Publications FZ LLC, Jeandy is responsible for ensuring articles meet the mark on the company's various websites and overseeing all of the company’s social media channels to ensure they are performing at the optimal level and driving traffic. In addition to her digital responsibilities, Jeandy works closely with clients, helping them to achieve their business objectives through tailored digital marketing solutions.
When Jeandy isn't busy dominating the digital media world, she's out there living her best life, taking on new adventures and creating hilarious vlogs to document all fun and happy memories! Whether she's bungee jumping off a bridge or exploring a new city, Jeandy always finds a way to inject humour and excitement into every moment.
As part of her role at Phoenix Media and Publications FZ LLC, Jeandy is responsible for ensuring articles meet the mark on the company's various websites and overseeing all of the company’s social media channels to ensure they are performing at the optimal level and driving traffic. In addition to her digital responsibilities, Jeandy works closely with clients, helping them to achieve their business objectives through tailored digital marketing solutions.
When Jeandy isn't busy dominating the digital media world, she's out there living her best life, taking on new adventures and creating hilarious vlogs to document all fun and happy memories! Whether she's bungee jumping off a bridge or exploring a new city, Jeandy always finds a way to inject humour and excitement into every moment.
Jobelle Marie Ramos
Digital Administrative Officer
Jobelle Marie Ramos
Digital Administrative Officer
Jobelle, a dynamic professional with nearly a decade of experience in the UAE, is deeply immersed in the world of media and advertising. With a great interest in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), she is continually enhancing her studies in order to hone her expertise further.
Within Phoenix Media & Publications, Jobelle is instrumental in disseminating content across digital platforms, ensuring a strong presence on the company's website and social media channels. She nurtures relationships with partner clients, offering personalised support to meet their unique needs.
During her leisure time, Jobelle indulges in a diverse range of interests that mirror her vibrant personality. A passionate aficionado of literature and art, she finds solace in the pages of books and the strokes of her paintbrush, immersing herself in the creative realms of painting and storytelling.
Within Phoenix Media & Publications, Jobelle is instrumental in disseminating content across digital platforms, ensuring a strong presence on the company's website and social media channels. She nurtures relationships with partner clients, offering personalised support to meet their unique needs.
During her leisure time, Jobelle indulges in a diverse range of interests that mirror her vibrant personality. A passionate aficionado of literature and art, she finds solace in the pages of books and the strokes of her paintbrush, immersing herself in the creative realms of painting and storytelling.
Christine Joyce Robiso
Digital Executive
Christine Joyce Robiso
Digital Executive
Christine was born and raised in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, where she discovered a deep fascination with the intersection of technology and marketing. That curiosity quickly evolved into a passion, driving her to dive deep into the world of digital marketing, content creation, and social media strategy. With a passion for trends and a constant hunger to learn.
As part of her role at Phoenix Media and Publications FZ LLC, she ensures every article published across the company’s websites hits the mark, while also steering the performance of all social media channels to maximize reach, engagement, and traffic.
During her personal time, Christine loves to unwind with a good book, often getting lost in captivating stories that fuel her creativity and curiosity. She's also an avid fan of TV series and movies, appreciating the storytelling and visual artistry that mirror her own passion for content and communication. But above all, she treasures quality moments with her family whether it's sharing a meal, laughing over a favourite show, or simply enjoying each other’s company.
As part of her role at Phoenix Media and Publications FZ LLC, she ensures every article published across the company’s websites hits the mark, while also steering the performance of all social media channels to maximize reach, engagement, and traffic.
During her personal time, Christine loves to unwind with a good book, often getting lost in captivating stories that fuel her creativity and curiosity. She's also an avid fan of TV series and movies, appreciating the storytelling and visual artistry that mirror her own passion for content and communication. But above all, she treasures quality moments with her family whether it's sharing a meal, laughing over a favourite show, or simply enjoying each other’s company.
Rhealyn Bautista
HR & Admin Officer
Rhealyn Bautista
HR & Admin Officer
With over seven years of experience in the hospitality industry in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Rhea brought her expertise and dedication to Phoenix Media and Publications, where she currently serves as our HR and Admin Officer.
In her role, Rhea provides essential office support to the entire team, ensuring that day-to-day operations run seamlessly. Her work touches every part of the organisation, making her a vital part of our success. Known for her exceptional organisational skills, professionalism, and passion for efficiency, Rhea is always looking for ways to improve internal processes and streamline workflows.
Rhea has a calm and approachable personality. A good listener and dependable team member, she creates a welcoming and supportive environment in the workplace. Outside of work, she enjoys the comforts of home watching K-dramas and movies, tending to her plants and aquariums, and catching up with family and friends in the Philippines over video calls.
In her role, Rhea provides essential office support to the entire team, ensuring that day-to-day operations run seamlessly. Her work touches every part of the organisation, making her a vital part of our success. Known for her exceptional organisational skills, professionalism, and passion for efficiency, Rhea is always looking for ways to improve internal processes and streamline workflows.
Rhea has a calm and approachable personality. A good listener and dependable team member, she creates a welcoming and supportive environment in the workplace. Outside of work, she enjoys the comforts of home watching K-dramas and movies, tending to her plants and aquariums, and catching up with family and friends in the Philippines over video calls.
- Email:yalla@yallauae.ae