Hi! My name is Arwa Federal. I am a baker and cake artist based in Dubai, UAE. What began as being the occasional helper in my mother's kitchen became an ever-growing passion I poured into my studio, Arwa Federal Cakes. From the moment I took in the smell of freshly baked cakes and cookies that spread to each corner of the house, I knew I wanted to be a baker.

My family has always been integral to my support system. However, my teachers thought I jeopardised my career by enrolling in a Hotel Management Degree program. Dismissing their views, I decided to do so to aid my career.

I completed my last semester of college in Switzerland, after which I returned to Dubai to work at a five-star property as a Commis (Junior) Chef in the pastry kitchen. But, the environment proved to be more overpowering than I anticipated. The mix of long hours, extensive physical effort and complicated work politics began to have a negative mental impact on me. I realised this wasn't the job for me and started working independently. I first drafted recipes, then moved on to sample cakes for friends and family. My first order dates back to the 22nd of November, 2005: a black forest cake.

I continued to work on my skills by attending workshops all over Dubai led by international cake artists. Sugar crafting was the first medium I explored. Throughout the years of my career, I have never stopped learning; the next day comprises something different than the last. That is what motivates me.