Maya Nassar: The Beautiful Persistent

Maya Nassar embodies a remarkable fusion of resolute determination and keen intellect, traits that hallmark her unyielding perseverance. In her relentless pursuit of objectives, she eschews the notion of failure, perceiving it instead as a crucible for success. Her transformation from a young woman contending with the challenges of excess weight to a champion in Lebanese bodybuilding is but one chapter in her extraordinary odyssey. However, Maya's influence transcends her personal triumphs. She has founded sports clubs dedicated to fostering a lifestyle that is both physically and psychologically wholesome. Utilizing her expertise in media and rich tapestry of life experiences, along with a fervent passion for the written word, she offers priceless counsel to her devoted audience. Maya stands as a beacon of inspiration, a living testament to the idea that each individual is capable of realizing their dreams.

Maya, could you enlighten us about your beginnings and the facets of your life beyond being Lebanon's bodybuilding ambassador?

With fervent devotion, I am a mother to four wonderful children and the beloved wife of Wissam Maalouf, with whom I share a profound love story. Originating from the vibrant city of New York, I am a blend of diverse cultural heritage, born to a Lebanese father and a Dutch mother. My linguistic journey has been marked by enriching diversity, having spent my childhood in Nigeria, followed by a sojourn in England, before reconnecting with my Lebanese roots. As a graduate in sociology and communication science from the esteemed American University of Beirut, my zeal for journalism flourished, leading to distinguished collaborations with notable publications such as “Executive” and “Time Out Beirut”. Presently, I am distinguished as the proprietor of three elite sports clubs and as an iconic representative of Lebanon in the international realm of bodybuilding. Additionally, I am the voice behind a popular radio show advocating for sports and a healthy lifestyle. My ascent to these heights was not without challenges, particularly overcoming weight issues that once shackled my self-esteem.

What sparked your interest in sports and a healthy lifestyle, and how did you embark on this path?

My attraction to sports and a healthy life emerged during a personal struggle in my twenties, battling excessive weight that dimmed my self-confidence and social vivacity. The transformative catalyst was Tom Venuto's seminal work “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle”. While authored by a bodybuilder, this guide transcended the confines of bodybuilding to offer an enlightening perspective on fat reduction and weight management. This book radically transformed my life, endowing me with the wisdom to make salutary dietary choices and the impetus to embrace a lasting healthy lifestyle.

How did “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle” inspire you to continue and persevere in your weight loss journey?

The book imparted a fundamental lesson: the notion of failure is merely an illusion in our life's quest. It guided me to reshape and reorient my strategies when confronted with challenges, rather than succumbing to defeat. The essence of its wisdom lay in focusing on my personal goals, steering clear of futile comparisons with others. It highlighted the paramount importance of self-love and recognizing one's capacity for change towards a disease-free, healthy existence. The core message was the power of determination; without unwavering willpower, our goals remain elusive. My driving force was a fervent desire to regain my self-confidence and zest for life, as well as to rid myself of perpetual fatigue. Within four months of disciplined diet and exercise, I successfully achieved my ideal weight, shedding the superfluous kilograms.

After achieving your ideal weight, you also aspired to become a bodybuilding icon. What motivated this decision?

It was a personal challenge for me. I realized that women could excel in bodybuilding competitions without compromising their femininity. By embracing this discipline, I had the honor of becoming the Lebanese champion in bodybuilding and the first woman to represent Lebanon in this sport on an international scale.

What ignited your passion for sports and bodybuilding?

Initially, I was averse to sports, gymnasiums, and strenuous workouts. However, the teachings from “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle” fundamentally altered my perception, portraying exercise not as a chore but as a magical wand for mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Overcoming obesity not only enhanced my love for life but also improved my breathing and bolstered my immunity. Indeed, embracing sports and a healthy regimen transformed my body, fortified my confidence and brought deep satisfaction, making me a fervent advocate of the athletic lifestyle.

Could you tell us about the sports clubs you manage? How did this venture begin?

After overcoming my own weight challenges and discovering a profound passion for sports, I felt compelled to assist others in transforming their lives towards healthier living. This led me to establish “Start Living Right”, a website where I shared proven tips on healthy eating and adopting sports as a lifestyle philosophy. Each story of positive change from my readers filled me with immense joy. The website attracted over 8,000 visitors monthly, inspiring me to develop the “Start Living Right” mobile app, featuring free fitness programs and dietary plans. This initiative was launched under the auspices of the then Minister of Sports. Two years later, in response to the demand from our followers, my husband and I inaugurated our first sports club in Antelias, also named “Start Living Right”, thereby transforming it into a hallmark brand of my professional journey.

Growing up with a Dutch mother and a Lebanese father, what did you learn from these two distinct cultures?

From the Netherlands, I inherited a worldview characterized by openness, tolerance towards diverse societies and cultures, and the humility and simplicity instilled by my mother. Lebanon taught me a lifestyle of noble values, where human relations are imbued with love and kindness. In Lebanon, life thrives on community spirit and familial warmth, contrasting with the individualism prevalent in the Netherlands. My love for Lebanon led me to settle there from the age of 13. My frequent travels only deepen my attachment to this country, where I desire my children to grow amidst a loving and attentive family. My mother, too, has chosen to live in Lebanon, preferring its social spontaneity to the Netherlands' more planned social interactions.

What challenges did you face due to your dual cultural background?

Belonging to two distinct cultures has enriched my personality. However, in both the Netherlands and Lebanon, I am often seen as a foreigner. But my heart belongs to Lebanon, a country I adore and where my family and I find joy and fulfilment.

Tell us about your husband. How did your relationship develop?

My husband, Wissam Maalouf, a native of Chouf in Lebanon, spent 15 years in the United States before returning to Lebanon to establish “Real Estate” with his brother Ziad. I met him while working for “Executive” magazine during a professional interview. Our initial interaction was strictly professional. However, eight months later, at a reception, we reconnected and began to know each other on a more personal level, gradually strengthening our bond. Today, we've been together for twelve years and are blessed with four children: Andrew (6 years), Matthew (4 years), Jamie (3 years), and Michael (1 year and 8 months).

You seem particularly fond of your sons. Why is that?

Indeed, I truly blossomed as a mother with my eldest, Andrew. It was love at first sight. He and his siblings are among the greatest achievements of my life. Holding him for the first time, I realized my profound love for children and immediately yearned to expand our family. Following Andrew's birth, my career took a backseat, and my children became my utmost priority. Had it not been for my commitments to the sports clubs and my radio work, I would have gladly had 5 or 6 children.

How do you balance your family and professional responsibilities?

I got married at 27, a significant time in my life when I held the title of Lebanon's bodybuilding champion and was also a host on MTV. Wissam and I decided to wait two years before starting our family, wishing to travel together and enjoy our freedom before diving into parenthood. During those years, we traveled to Malaysia, Japan, and other destinations, as travel is my greatest passion. I also participated in several international bodybuilding tournaments. After the birth of our first child, I left MTV, and we opened our first sports club. Owning your own business offers greater flexibility in coordinating family and work commitments, allowing me to place my children at the center of my life.

How supportive has your husband been in your career?

He has been incredibly supportive, playing a central role in all the various projects I've undertaken. His unwavering support has extended to accompanying me to every competition I participated in, where he consistently encouraged me to strive for greater success. Together, we ventured into the world of sports clubs, where he provided invaluable insights and leveraged his wealth of experience in the business realm.

In your opinion, should a woman seek a life partner who shares her interests and aspirations?

While shared interests and goals can certainly enhance a relationship, it's not an absolute necessity. What truly matters is having a partner who champions her endeavors and empowers her to reach new heights in whatever she pursues. During moments of weariness, my husband, Wissam, has been the driving force behind my determination. His desire is for me to achieve my dreams and serve as a role model, demonstrating that a woman can excel both as a mother and in her professional endeavors. In fact, shortly after the birth of our son Andrew, I represented Lebanon in a bodybuilding competition in England and secured the first-place title.

What were some of the most challenging obstacles you've faced?

One of the most trying periods in my life occurred during my pregnancy with my youngest son, Michael, when I experienced a profound and persistent bout of depression. This challenging time coincided with the devastating Beirut port explosion, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the economic turmoil in Lebanon. These external factors, coupled with the natural concerns of a mother for her children, exacerbated my condition. I found myself unable to sleep at night, consumed by constant anxiety, and often reluctant to leave my bed. Tears were a frequent companion throughout the day, and I struggled to comprehend the root causes of my depression. I carried a profound sense of guilt for experiencing such a state, especially in the presence of my loving husband and healthy children. It was an extraordinary ordeal that I could not overcome without the support of my mother, my husband, and a therapist. I share this experience to offer solace to women who may be grappling with depression, reminding them that it is a temporary phase that will pass.

What advice do you have for women who are battling depression?

It's imperative for women grappling with depression to first acknowledge that they are not at fault; this condition often stems from the complexities and stresses of daily life. A key strategy is to immerse oneself in outdoor activities, particularly those surrounded by nature, as they can be significantly beneficial in coping with depression. It's crucial to recognize depression as a transient state. However, seeking support from loved ones or consulting a qualified psychiatrist is critical. Despite the prevailing societal stigma surrounding depression in Lebanon, it's important to understand that anyone can be affected. Reaching out for professional help is a courageous and commendable step towards healing. Together, we can surmount this challenge.

Is there a specific rationale behind dedicating Thursdays on your radio program, Virgin Radio Stars, to addressing psychological challenges?

Indeed, Thursdays on "VIRGIN RADIO STARS" are devoted to the critical subject of mental well-being. The show, broadcasted weekdays from 8 to 10 AM with a repeat from 1 to 3 PM, reserves Thursdays for mental health discussions, featuring dialogues with seasoned doctors and psychotherapists. Each day is themed: Mondays for boosting enthusiasm and motivation, Tuesdays for nutrition insights, Wednesdays for fitness and exercise, and Fridays, termed "Funy Friday," for weekend enjoyment tips. Significantly, our Thursday segment on depression and mental health garners the highest listener engagement. It's heartening to witness the positive impact of our program in aiding many to navigate psychological challenges through expert advice and shared experiences.

Tell us more about how you were able to win and represent Lebanon in bodybuilding championships.

My foray into the realm of bodybuilding championships was ignited by my private trainer's unwavering belief in my potential. This journey entailed dedicating countless hours to intensive training, meticulously crafted to align with international standards. We proposed this endeavor to the Minister of Youth and Sports, who graciously endorsed my representation of Lebanon in global contests. It's pivotal to mention that my initial foray did not culminate in victory, yet this only served to intensify my resolve. In the early stages, I grappled with the absence of sponsors and a nutritionist, relying solely on my own efforts and accrued experience. Intriguingly, had I not faced the challenge of excess weight earlier in life, I might not have embarked on this path or attained the stature I hold today.

Can you share more about the sports clubs that you own and operate?

We proudly operate three establishments under the banner of "Start Living Right." These are situated in Dbayeh (following our relocation from Antelias), Faqra, and Broummana. Our aspirations include the expansion of our presence with the establishment of a fourth branch in Beirut or its suburban areas.

What distinguishes you?

What sets us apart is our steadfast commitment to principles that diverge from the trends, misinformation, and falsehoods often propagated on social media platforms. We wholeheartedly embrace natural methodologies, eschewing the use of manufactured energy drinks, diet pills, and other potentially harmful substances. Our approach centers around transparency and honesty, guided by a dedication to natural techniques. Our team comprises nutrition experts and specialized trainers who accompany our clients, offering invaluable guidance and insights for cultivating a healthy and holistic lifestyle. While our clubs may not boast immense sizes and cannot accommodate an extensive membership, we prioritize this deliberate limitation to ensure each individual receives personalized and comprehensive attention, facilitating their journey towards the well-being and physical vitality they rightfully deserve.

What strategies would you recommend for sustainable weight loss?

Embrace a long-term approach to dieting, allowing occasional treats while focusing on balanced, nutritious meals to maintain metabolism and avoid extreme hunger.

What guidance can you offer to individuals experiencing stress-induced sugar cravings as a means to uplift their mood?

Engaging in outdoor exercise, seeking support from friends, enjoying a comedy movie, or any activity that alleviates life's pressures can be more effective in managing stress. It's crucial to tackle stress head-on in order to achieve weight loss goals.

What advice do you have for mothers aiming to instill healthy habits in their children?

Encourage a diet rich in home-cooked meals with vegetables, grains, and meats, minimize processed foods, and foster a love for sports from a young age to integrate fitness into their daily routine.

How has participating in sports shaped your perspective?

Sports have taught me perseverance, the belief in achieving the impossible, and learning from challenges to emerge stronger, alongside a commitment to goal attainment.

Beyond sports and media, what other ventures have you explored?

My passion for storytelling led me to author 'Andy The Ant,' a children's book available in bookstores, about a boy learning to appreciate his unique strengths, much like an ant's remarkable ability to carry twice its weight.

What final advice would you give to women?

Continuously set new goals and dreams after achieving the previous ones. The pursuit and realization of aspirations are key to a fulfilling, depression-free life.