Last night I had the pleasure of attending a Farah’s Club dinner, held at one of my absolute favourite places on the island: The Golden Monkey Thai Restaurant at the St Raphael Resort.

For me, this restaurant is more than just a beautiful dining venue. It is a place that evokes memories, emotions and a sense of nostalgia, instantly transporting me back to another time in my life.

Chef Lurtnapa once again worked her magic, presenting us with a selection of authentic Thai dishes inspired by the region she comes from in Thailand. Each plate was carefully prepared, full of flavour and beautifully balanced, reflecting the true essence of Thai cuisine.

Having worked in Thailand many years ago, during my time as a tour guide, I developed a deep appreciation for both the food and the culture. Thai cuisine has a unique way of staying with you, not only because of its vibrant flavours, but also because of the warmth and spirit of the people behind it. I can honestly say that Chef Lurtnapa’s creations are just as authentic and delicious as anything you would experience in Thailand itself.

Dining at The Golden Monkey always brings back fond memories of those earlier days, when we shared countless moments of laughter with our Thai colleagues. Very often, we didn’t fully understand each other, yet somehow we understood everything that truly mattered. It was a reminder that connection goes far beyond language.

This feeling of connection was very much present throughout the evening.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the dinner was when we were all given the time and opportunity to introduce ourselves. As I listened to the different backgrounds and stories around the table, I became increasingly aware of how extraordinary this group of people was.

Seated together were healers, coaches, hypnotherapists, psychiatrists, politicians, lawyers, astrologers and many other professionals from different walks of life. Despite their diverse backgrounds, there was a shared energy in the room, one of openness, positivity and genuine curiosity about one another.

It is a community of individuals who not only seek growth for themselves but also support and inspire others in their journeys.

The conversations flowed naturally, ideas were exchanged freely, and there was a strong sense of mutual respect and encouragement. It became clear to me that what we were experiencing went far beyond a simple dinner gathering.

It was, in many ways, a reflection of something much deeper. We often speak about the importance of what we put into our bodies and how much we move, both of which are essential for our wellbeing. However, there is another element that is just as important and often underestimated: the power of community.

Human connection, shared experiences and a sense of belonging play a crucial role in our mental and emotional health. In fact, they are among the most powerful contributors to happiness, resilience and longevity.

Farah’s Club is built around exactly this philosophy.

Founded in 2023 by Farah Shammas, the club has created a space where people can come together to explore a more balanced, healthy and fulfilling way of living. Based in Cyprus, it brings individuals together through monthly networking dinners, themed online gatherings and wellness-focused events designed to encourage both personal growth and meaningful connection.

Members are also offered a variety of resources, including vegan recipes, weekly lifestyle tips and exclusive content featuring experts in areas such as mental health, nutrition and wellbeing. The aim is not only to educate, but also to inspire individuals to make positive changes in their daily lives.

At its core, Farah’s Club is about empowerment, helping people feel more energised, more connected and more aligned with themselves.

Farah herself embodies this vision in a remarkable way. Of Lebanese-British descent and based in Limassol, she is the Managing Director of the prestigious St Raphael Resort and Marina. In addition to her professional role, she is a passionate advocate for sustainable living and holistic wellbeing. As a plant-based nutrition coach and dedicated vegan, she has created Farah’s Club as a platform to share her values and bring like-minded individuals together. She is also a respected speaker on topics such as women’s empowerment and sustainability, while at the same time balancing her role as a wife and mother of three.

What makes Farah truly special is her ability to create genuine connection. She brings people together in a way that feels natural, inclusive and inspiring.

Last night was a perfect example of that.

As I sat at the table, surrounded by fascinating individuals, enjoying exceptional food and engaging conversation, I felt a deep sense of appreciation for the experience.

It was a reminder that wellbeing is not only about nutrition or exercise, but also about the people we surround ourselves with and the connections we nurture.

Evenings like this highlight something very simple yet profoundly important: when people come together with openness and intention, something truly meaningful is created.

And that, perhaps, is where true wellbeing begins.

Author: Elisabeth V. Toufexis

Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis is a woman of resilience and courage, who has navigated life’s turbulences, tamed her fears, and undertaken an incredible...