January 4, 2023
IMAX Delivers Second Biggest Global Opening of All Time with Massive $48.8 Million Debut of James Cameron's "Avatar: The Way of Water."
IMAX Global Network Delivers 11.2% of the Film’s Worldwide Gross, Including Record-Breaking 27% of the Box Office in China
“Avatar: The Way of Water” Claims Crown as Biggest IMAX December Global Opening Ever
NEW YORK, January 03, 2023 — IMAX Corporation announced that moviegoers returned to Pandora in droves with James Cameron’s groundbreaking sci-fi sequel “Avatar: The Way of Water” delivering a massive $48.8 million global opening weekend in IMAX theaters. It is the second biggest IMAX international opening of all time.
IMAX built on its historic legacy with this one-of-a-kind franchise, racking up 11.2% of the film’s worldwide gross on just a fraction of the total screens. The original “Avatar” is the highest-grossing film of all time in IMAX.
The North American box office led the way, where IMAX delivered $16.5 million in Domestic box office — 12.3% of total receipts. “Avatar: The Way of Water” also heralded a return to form for IMAX in China, where the Company delivered a $15.8 million opening weekend. IMAX had its most significant opening weekend marketing share ever in China, accounting for 27% of the total box office in China on only 1% of full screens in the market.
“‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ is a watershed achievement in filmmaking innovation and technology, and it’s clear that global audiences are choosing to see this film through the best technology for blockbuster entertainment in the world: IMAX,” said Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX. “As excited as we are about these early results, we anticipate a long and successful run for ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ as more people worldwide book their tickets.”
International IMAX screens outside China delivered $16.5 million at the box office with “Avatar: The Way of Water.” The film scored the biggest IMAX opening weekend of all time in a diverse collection of 11 global markets, including India, Belgium, Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Switzerland, Turkey, Vietnam, Chile, Kazakhstan, and New Zealand, where “Avatar: The Way of Water” was filmed. In addition, IMAX recently opened its first theatre in Wellington. Forty-one international markets posted the top five all-time IMAX opening weekends.
“Avatar: The Way of Water” debuted with the most extended IMAX global release across 1,543 screens and is available exclusively in IMAX 3D locations worldwide. The film will screen across the IMAX network through January in most international markets.
IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture, and equipment to create experiences that take you beyond the edge of your seat to a world you’ve never imagined. As a result, top filmmakers and studios are utilizing IMAX theaters to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways. As such, IMAX’s network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe.
IMAX has its headquarters in New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles, with additional offices in London, Dublin, Tokyo, and Shanghai, and it operates in 87 countries and territories worldwide.
Source: IMAX
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:59 AM | View the original post
December 16, 2022
Two limited editions of Ducati Panigale V4 celebrate the World Champion Titles of Francesco Bagnaia and Alvaro Bautista.
The limited series Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2022 World Champion Replica and Panigale V4 Bautista 2022 World Champion Replica will be made in 260 units, each bike made unique by the rider’s original signature on the tank.
These unique series feature the same liveries as the bikes on which Bagnaia and Bautista won the titles in MotoGP and WorldSBK, an authenticity certificate, dedicated technical equipment, and a packing case.
Photos: Celebratory motorcycles. Ducati PanigaleV4 2022 World Champion Replicas. Images provided by & copyright © Ducati.
Bologna, Italy, December 15, 2022 - Ducati celebrates the double victory of the MotoGP and WorldSBK titles by creating two unique series of Panigale V4 bikes inspired by the Desmosedici GP and Panigale V4 R of World Champions Francesco Bagnaia and Alvaro Bautista. The celebratory motorcycles were unveiled during the press conference anticipating “Campioni in Piazza2”, the event where Ducati celebrates this historic double achievement with its fans.
2022 has been an incredible year for Ducati. The Bologna-based manufacturer is World Champion, for the first time in its history, in both MotoGP and WorldSBK in the same season. A dream result that came true, thanks to the exceptional work of the engineers, teams, and riders. A double triumph that Ducati wanted to celebrate with two unique, collectible models.
The two special series, made on the base of the Panigale V4 S, will feature the liveries of Pecco Bagnaia #63 and Alvaro Bautista #19 bikes. In addition, each motorcycle in the series will be made unique by the original autograph of the rider on the tank, which will then be protected with a layer of clear varnish. The two motorcycles, produced in a numbered and limited series, celebrate the year of Ducati’s birth in their production numbers. Each series will consist of only 260 units in honor of 1926, the year the company was founded.
Like the race bikes they are inspired by, the Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica bikes are offered in a single-seat configuration. The billet aluminum upper clamp enhances them with laser engraving of the model name and progressive number. The technical equipment boasts adopting the nine-disc STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, street-legal silencer (2 kg lighter than the Panigale V4’s stock unit), Brembo braking system enhanced by Stylema® R calipers, and MCS master cylinder with remote adjuster, Rizoma billet aluminum adjustable footpegs and racing plexiglass.
Other technical details that characterize these special bikes are the rear exhaust manifold heat shield, alternator cover, front and rear fenders, and front brake ducts, all made of carbon fiber. Also made of carbon fiber, combined with titanium, is the cover protecting the single-sided swingarm. Finally, the series dedicated to Alvaro Bautista #19 features the brushed aluminum tank found on the more refined versions of the Panigale V4.
Each bike will be delivered in a packing case with dedicated graphics, a certificate of authenticity, a custom bike cover, and the Ducati Data Analyser.
Source: Ducati
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:54 AM | View the original post
December 7, 2022
Academy announces Animated, Documentary, and International Feature Films Eligible for 95th Oscars
Photo: Oscar nominee and American filmmaker Garrett Bradley arrives on the red carpet of The 93rd Oscars at Union Station in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, April 25, 2021. Image provided by & copyright © Matt Petit / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
LOS ANGELES, CA - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced feature films eligible for consideration in the Animated Feature Film, Documentary Feature Film, and International Feature Film categories for the 95th Academy Awards.
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Twenty-seven features are eligible for consideration in the Animated Feature Film category for the 95th Academy Awards. Some of the films have not yet had their required qualifying release and must fulfill that requirement and comply with all the category’s other qualifying rules to advance in the voting process.
Short Films and Feature Animation Branch members are automatically eligible to vote in the category. Academy members outside of the Short Films and Feature Animation Branch are invited to opt-in to participate. They must meet a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category. Films submitted in the Animated Feature Film category also qualify for Academy Awards in other categories, including Best Picture.
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
One hundred forty-four features are eligible for consideration in the Documentary Feature Film category for the 95th Academy Awards. Some of the films have not yet had their required qualifying release and must fulfill that requirement and comply with all the category’s other qualifying rules to advance in the voting process.
Members of the Documentary Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees. The Academy will announce the shortlist of 15 films on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
Ninety-two countries have submitted films that are eligible for consideration in the International Feature Film category for the 95th Academy Awards.
An international feature film is a feature-length motion picture (more than 40 minutes) produced outside the United States with a predominantly (more than 50%) non-English dialogue track. Uganda is a first-time entrant.
Academy members from all branches are invited to opt-in to participate in the preliminary round of voting. They must meet a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category. The Academy will announce the shortlist of 15 films on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.
• Films Eligible for Consideration in the International Feature Films Category
— Listed in Alphabetical Order by Country
- Albania, “A Cup of Coffee and New Shoes On”
- Algeria, “Our Brothers”
- Argentina, “Argentina, 1985”
- Armenia, “Aurora’s Sunrise”
- Australia, “You Won’t Be Alone”
- Austria, “Corsage”
- Azerbaijan, “Creators”
- Bangladesh, “Hawa”
- Belgium, “Close”
- Bolivia, “Utama”
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, “A Ballad”
- Brazil, “Mars One”
- Bulgaria, “In the Heart of the Machine”
- Cambodia, “Return to Seoul”
- Cameroon, “The Planters Plantation”
- Canada, “Eternal Spring”
- Chile, “Blanquita”
- China, “Nice View”
- Colombia, “The Kings of the World”
- Costa Rica, “Domingo and the Mist”
- Croatia, “Safe Place”
- Czech Republic, “Il Boemo”
- Denmark, “Holy Spider”
- Dominican Republic, “Bantú Mama”
- Ecuador, “Lo Invisible”
- Estonia, “Kalev”
- Finland, “Girl Picture”
- France, “Saint Omer”
- Georgia, “A Long Break”
- Germany, “All Quiet on the Western Front”
- Greece, “Magnetic Fields”
- Guatemala, “The Silence of the Mole”
- Hong Kong, “Where the Wind Blows”
- Hungary, “Blockade”
- Iceland, “Beautiful Beings”
- India, “Last Film Show”
- Indonesia, “Missing Home”
- Iran, “World War III”
- Iraq, “The Exam”
- Ireland, “The Quiet Girl”
- Israel, “Cinema Sabaya”
- Italy, “Nostalgia”
- Japan, “Plan 75”
- Jordan, “Farha”
- Kazakhstan, “Life”
- Kenya, “TeraStorm”
- Kosovo, “Looking for Venera”
- Kyrgyzstan, “Home for Sale”
- Latvia, “January”
- Lebanon, “Memory Box”
- Lithuania, “Pilgrims”
- Luxembourg, “Icarus”
- Mexico, “Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths”
- Moldova, “Carbon”
- Mongolia, “Harvest Moon”
- Montenegro, “The Elegy of Laurel”
- Morocco, “The Blue Caftan”
- Nepal, “Butterfly on a Windowpane”
- Netherlands, “Narcosis”
- New Zealand, “Muru”
- North Macedonia, “The Happiest Man in the World”
- Norway, “War Sailor”
- Pakistan, “Joyland”
- Palestine, “Mediterranean Fever”
- Panama, “Birthday Boy”
- Paraguay, “Eami”
- Peru, “Moon Heart”
- Philippines, “On the Job: The Missing 8”
- Poland, “EO”
- Portugal, “Alma Viva”
- Romania, “Imaculat”
- Saudi Arabia, “Raven Song”
- Senegal, “Xalé”
- Serbia, “Darkling”
- Singapore, “Ajoomma”
- Slovakia, “Victim”
- Slovenia, “Orchestra”
- South Korea, “Decision to Leave”
- Spain, “Alcarrà s”
- Sweden, “Cairo Conspiracy”
- Switzerland, “A Piece of Sky”
- Taiwan, “Goddamned Asura”
- Tanzania, “Tug of War”
- Thailand, “One for the Road”
- Tunisia, “Under the Fig Trees”
- Turkey, “Kerr”
- Uganda, “Tembele”
- Ukraine, “Klondike”
- United Kingdom, “Winners”
- Uruguay, “The Employer and the Employee”
- Venezuela, “The Box”
- Vietnam, “578: Magnum”
Nominations for the 95th Academy Awards will be announced on Tuesday, January 24, 2023.
The 95th Oscars will take place on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:49 PM | View the original post
TIME Names the 2022 Person of the Year: Volodymyr Zelensky and the Spirit of Ukraine
Photo: 2022 TIME Person of the Year: Volodymyr Zelensky and the Spirit of Ukraine. Image provided by TIME.
NEW YORK, December 7, 2022 — Today, TIME named Volodymyr Zelensky and the Spirit of Ukraine as the 2022 Person of the Year.
The cover story is by TIME’s Simon Shuster. He spent nine months reporting on the invasion, during which Zelensky and his team granted him unparalleled access to work inside the presidential compound.
In his letter to readers, TIME Editor-in-Chief Edward Felsenthal writes, “This year’s choice was the most clear-cut in memory. Whether the battle for Ukraine fills one with hope or fear, the world marched to Volodymyr Zelensky’s beat in 2022. In the weeks after Russian bombs began falling on February 24, his decision not to flee Kyiv but to stay and rally support was fateful. After his first 40-second Instagram post on February 25, Ukraine’s president was everywhere. His information offensive shifted the geoÂpolitical weather system, setting off a wave of action that swept the globe.”
Felsenthal continues, “The impact of this story on 2022 is the essence of what Person of the Year was designed to capture, the idea that fateful events on the global stage are shaped—for better and worse—by the talents, priorities, fears, and quirks of individual human beings… For proving that courage can be as contagious as fear, stirring people and nations to come together in defense of freedom, and reminding the world of the fragility of democracy-and of peace, Volodymyr Zelensky and the spirit of Ukraine are TIME’s 2022 Person of the Year.”
• TIME also named the 2022 Athlete, Entertainer, Icon, Heroes, Innovator, and Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
HEROES OF THE YEAR
— The Women of Iran
INNOVATORS OF THE YEAR
— The NASA team who built the James Webb Space Telescope
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
— Aaron Judge
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
— Blackpink
ICON OF THE YEAR
— Michelle Yeoh
BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR
— Mickey Guyton
The “December 26, 2022 - January 9, 2023, Person of the Year Issue” of TIME goes on sale on Friday, December 16, 2022.
On December 8, TIME will host a reception featuring meaningful conversations with leaders whose impact defined 2022 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
Source: TIME
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:04 AM | View the original post
December 6, 2022
Oxford Word of the Year 2022 is: 'Goblin Mode'
Oxford, December 05, 2022 — More than 300,000 English speakers voted to choose the “Word of the Year.” And the winner is: “Goblin Mode.”
As Oxford University Press (OUP) explained, ‘Goblin mode’ is a slang term often used in the expressions ‘in goblin mode’ or ‘to go goblin mode.’ It is a type of behavior that is unapologetically self-indulgent, lazy, careless, or greedy, typically in a way that rejects social norms or expectations.
“Although first seen on Twitter in 2009, goblin mode went viral on social media in February 2022, quickly making its way into newspapers and magazines after being tweeted in a mocked-up headline. The term then rose in popularity over the months following as Covid lockdown restrictions eased in many countries and people ventured out of their homes more regularly. Seemingly, it captured the prevailing mood of individuals who rejected the idea of returning to ‘normal life, or rebelled against the increasingly unattainable aesthetic standards and unsustainable lifestyles exhibited on social media,” OUP added.
At a special event to announce this year’s approach to selecting the Oxford Word of the Year, Ben Zimmer, American linguist and lexicographer, said: “Goblin Mode does speak to the times and the zeitgeist, and it is certainly a 2022 expression. People are looking at social norms in new ways. It allows people to ditch social norms and embrace new ones.”
Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, said: “We were hoping the public would enjoy being brought into the process, but this level of engagement with the campaign caught us by surprise. The strength of the response highlights how important our vocabulary is to understanding who we are and processing what’s happening to the world around us. Given the year we’ve just experienced, ‘Goblin mode’ resonates with all of us who feel a little overwhelmed. It’s a relief to acknowledge that we’re not always the idealized, curated selves we’re encouraged to present on our Instagram and TikTok feeds. It has been demonstrated by the dramatic rise of platforms like BeReal, where users share images of their unedited selves, often capturing self-indulgent moments in goblin mode. People are embracing their inner goblin, and voters choosing ‘goblin mode’ as the Word of the Year tells us the concept is likely here to stay.”
Oxford University Press (OUP) is one of the world’s largest university presses with a broad global presence. It prints in many countries, in more than 40 languages, and various formats - print and digital. As a result, OUP products cover a vast academic and educational spectrum. For example, the Oxford English Dictionary, published by Oxford University Press, is the principal historical dictionary of the English language.
Oxford University Press (OUP) is a department of the prestigious “University of Oxford.”
Source: Oxford University Press
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:43 AM | View the original post
November 29, 2022
Supermodel and Environmentalist Gisele Bundchen wears Portofino Chronograph 39 in the new IWC Schaffhausen Global Campaign.
Photo: Gisele Bundchen wearing the Portofino Chronograph 39. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Chronograph 39. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: Gisele Bundchen wearing the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Schaffhausen, November 29, 2022: IWC Schaffhausen kicks off a worldwide advertising campaign with Gisele Bündchen to launch its new Portofino collection. The Swiss luxury manufacturer is collaborating with the Brazilian model and environmentalist for the campaign, especially in light of her new role as IWC’s first-ever Environmental and Community Projects Advisor. In the campaign, Gisele wears different Portofino models - including the new Portofino Chronograph 39 with the IWC-manufactured 69355 caliber movement and a sapphire glass case back.
“Gisele Bündchen embodies elegance and sustainability. She has been Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009. She has also been honored by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to crucial environmental issues. However, Bündchen is instead known as one of the most successful supermodels in the world. Throughout her 27-year career, she has got photographed by legendary photographers and walked the runways of the best-known fashion houses. Following her appointment as IWC’s first Environmental and Community Projects Advisor, the manufacturer has chosen Bündchen as the face of its new Portofino campaign,” IWC stated.
In the campaign, Bündchen wears different watches from the new Portofino collection. Among them is the new Portofino Chronograph 39, which combines the classic and elegant Portofino design with a sporty chronograph complication in an easy-to-wear case size of 39 millimeters. The timepiece features a stainless steel case, a silver-plated dial, and rhodium-plated hands and appliques. This robust and precise chronograph movement in the classic column-wheel design enables the measurement of stop times of up to 30 minutes and can be admired through a sapphire glass case back. Moreover, having the integrated quick-change system, the timepiece can easily be paired with a casual or elegant outfit.
Source: IWC Schaffhausen
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:50 AM | View the original post
November 21, 2022
Nespresso, the Pioneer of Premium Single-Serve Coffee, unveils a new range of Home Compostable Coffee Capsules.
Photo: Breakthrough paper-based home compostable capsule offers another way to enjoy sustainably sourced high-quality coffee without compromising on a premium coffee experience. Retro-compatible with Nespresso Original machines, the new “capsules” will pilot in France and Switzerland from spring 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Nestle/Nespresso.
• Nespresso’s paper-based home compostable capsule offers an additional way to enjoy sustainably sourced high-quality coffee.
• Nespresso Coffee Capsules
For 30 years, Nespresso has been dedicated to bringing its consumers the ultimate coffee experience. Today, it has announced a new range of paper-based home compostable capsules.
Guillaume Le Cunff, Nespresso CEO, said: “Pushing the boundaries of fine coffee experiences is part of the Nespresso innovation. Since becoming a B Corp earlier this year, we’re more committed than ever to widening the sustainable choices we offer our consumers. We are excited to announce our first-ever paper-based home compostable capsule, which will complement our offering of aluminum capsules that are both recyclable and made using 80% recycled aluminum. It is about yet another sustainable choice, without compromising on quality.”
Julia Lauricella, Head of Global R&D Center for Systems and Coffee Machines, said: “Our 40 years of experience in coffee systems allowed us, together with the Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences, to develop a home compostable paper-based capsule, retro-compatible with the Nespresso Original machines, that meets and exceeds the high expectations consumers have of Nespresso in terms of protecting the coffee’s aromas and taste. We combined a high-precision paper pulp forming process with a biodegradable layer for protection against oxidation to preserve our coffee in transport, storage, and during the high-pressure extraction in our machines.”
The product is certified for composting, home, and industrial use, by TÃœV Austria, an international certification body. In some countries, including France, where Nespresso is piloting this range, these capsules are acceptable in the public biowaste bin.
Nestlé Nespresso SA is the pioneer for high-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 140,000 farmers in 18 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 81 countries and has over 13,000 employees with a global retail network of 802 boutiques.
Source: Nestle/Nespresso
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:19 PM | View the original post
November 15, 2022
The Netherlands, Singapore, and Austria Top EF's Global English Proficiency Index
— Worldwide English Trends Revealed in Survey of Over Two Million Adults
ZURICH, November 15, 2022 — EF Education First (EF) today released the 2022 edition of its EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), analyzing data from 2.1 million non-native English speakers in 111 countries and regions. The Netherlands retained first place, while Singapore surged to second, cracking the top three again since becoming the first ASEAN nation to do so in 2018.
“This year’s index reflects the pandemic’s impact - from a concerning decline in English proficiency among young people to unexpectedly high proficiency outside big cities, which has remote work implications,” said EF EPI author Kate Bell. “The report tracks stories of remarkable progress and discouraging setbacks.”
The EF EPI is based on scores from the EF Standard English Test (EF SET), used by governments, companies, and schools for large-scale testing and millions of individual test takers.
Key findings include:
English proficiency improved for adults over 25, with over 40s improving the most. Proficiency among adults 21 - 25 was unchanged but declined for the 18-20 cohort by a striking 50 points since 2020.
Lower-proficiency groups are catching up in Europe, with large countries bordering the European Union fueling the region’s continuing rise. However, Europe is the only area where young adults have not lost ground.
Central and South America continue to improve remarkably; but have the broadest age-related score difference in the world, with scores for the 18-20 cohort declining significantly since 2020.
Asia’s regional average declined slightly due to drops in the Philippines and China, although most countries surveyed improved somewhat, and three climbed into a higher proficiency band.
This year, the gender gap has widened, with men’s English proficiency continuing to outpace women. It appears to be driven by biased education systems or unequal access.
Large cities don’t always have the best English. Of the 500+ cities measured, 130 did not outscore their region, and another 130 barely did. It has implications for recruitment, given the shift toward remote work.
English proficiency in Africa and the Middle East was stable. Outcomes remain stubbornly low across ages in the Middle East, although a narrowing gender-related proficiency gap is a positive development. Africa has some of the broadest proficiency gaps in the world, both in age and gender.
• English Proficiency Ranking of Countries
- Netherlands
- Singapore
- Austria
- Norway
- Denmark
- Belgium
- Sweden
- Finland
- Portugal
- Germany
- Croatia
- South Africa
- Poland
- Greece
- Slovakia
- Luxembourg
- Romania
- Hungary
- Lithuania
- Kenya
- Bulgaria
- Philippines
- Czech Republic
- Malaysia
- Latvia
- Estonia
- Serbia
- Nigeria
- Switzerland
- Argentina
- Hong Kong, China
- Italy
- Spain
- France
- Ukraine
- South Korea
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- Belarus
- Russia
- Ghana
- Moldova
- Paraguay
- Bolivia
- Chile
- Georgia
- Albania
- Honduras
- Uruguay
- El Salvador
- Peru
- India
- Dominican Republic
- Lebanon
- Uganda
- Tunisia
- Armenia
- Brazil
- Guatemala
- Vietnam
- Nicaragua
- China
- Tanzania
- Turkey
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Venezuela
- Ethiopia
- Iran
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Mongolia
- Qatar
- Israel
- Panama
- Morocco
- Colombia
- U.A.E.
- Algeria
- Japan
- Indonesia
- Ecuador
- Syria
- Kuwait
- Egypt
- Mozambique
- Afghanistan
- Mexico
- Uzbekistan
- Jordan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Azerbaijan
- Myanmar
- Cambodia
- Sudan
- Cameroon
- Thailand
- Haiti
- Kazakhstan
- Somalia
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- Iraq
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Angola
- Tajikistan
- Rwanda
- Libya
- Yemen
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Laos
EF Education First provides culturally immersive education through language, travel, cultural exchange, and academic programs in over 100 countries. Founded in Sweden in 1965, EF’s mission is to open the world through education.
Source: EF Education First (EF)
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:39 AM | View the original post
October 26, 2022
JKN Global Group acquires The Miss Universe Organization from IMG
The transaction will expand JKN Global Group’s (“JKN”) portfolio of broadcast and entertainment properties to become a world-leading omnichannel powerhouse.
The acquisition will seek to build on The Miss Universe Organization’s more than 70-year legacy, including expanded investment in licensing and merchandising opportunities.
With today’s announcement, JKN Chief Executive Officer Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip becomes the first woman owner in The Miss Universe Organization’s history.
Photo: Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, CEO of JKN Global Group and the first woman owner of The Miss Universe Organization.
BANGKOK, Oct. 26, 2022 — JKN, a Thai-owned media and content conglomerate, has announced the acquisition of The Miss Universe Organization from IMG.
The Miss Universe Organization is an international, inclusive organization that celebrates women of all backgrounds, cultures, and traditions and exists to advocate for a future forged by women and suitable for all. At 71 years, MISS UNIVERSE® is one of the longest-running and most-watched competitions in the world, broadcast in 165 countries worldwide and seen by more than half a billion people annually.
Led by CEO Amy Emmerich and President Paula Shugart, the Miss Universe Organization provides a global platform for more than 10,000 women annually to affect positive change through dedicated personal, professional, and philanthropic activities worldwide. Today’s announcement further propels the Organization’s commitment to inclusivity, with JKN Global Group’s Chief Executive Officer Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip becoming the first woman owner of The Miss Universe Organization. The transition expands JKN’s global broadcast and media portfolio across entertainment and consumer products. JKN’s acquisition will build on The Miss Universe Organization’s strong brand and vision, developing an integrated and compelling proposition with new opportunities to grow the business in key and untapped markets, including Asia.
JKN said that it would leverage the strength of the Miss Universe brand and JKN’s lifestyle portfolio to create a new range of merchandise, as well as entertainment and various business opportunities that reflect the brand’s strength.
Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer of JKN Global Group, said: “We are incredibly honored to be acquiring The Miss Universe Organization and working with its visionary leadership team. The global reach of the Organization, its relationships with global partners and brands, and its wealth of content and merchandising opportunities make this a strong, strategic addition to our portfolio. We seek to continue its legacy of providing a platform to passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions and to evolve the brand for the next generation.”
Amy Emmerich, Chief Executive Officer, and Paula Shugart, President of The Miss Universe Organization, shared: “We are excited to continue the evolution of The Miss Universe Organization with JKN. Our relationships with global partners and brands have never been stronger, and our progressive approach positions us at the forefront of our industry. We want to thank IMG for providing a foundation to realize our aspirations for the brand.”
Source: JKN Global Group
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:32 AM | View the original post
October 20, 2022
FILA debuts New Global Campaign featuring Hailey Bieber
Photos: FILA debuts New Global Campaign featuring Hailey Bieber.
Luxembourg, October 20, 2022 - FILA has tapped American model, media personality, and socialite Hailey Bieber to front the brand’s new global campaign, giving the model and entrepreneur a canvas to express her unique sense of style while utilizing some of the brand’s iconic designs.
Renell Medranohe photographed the campaign, and Renell Medrano and Hailey styled it. Hailey gets featured in various archival FILA pieces and staple styles, including a crewneck sweatshirt, sweater vest, oversized utility pants, and a puffer jacket, accessorizing with bucket hats and FILA footwear.
The photos capture the spirit of the 90s, from the apparel to the styling to the aesthetic. Working hand in hand with the brand, she brings her point of view to FILA classics with a modern and effortless interpretation.
“My style is ever-evolving, and FILA’s designs are timeless and the perfect complement to my everyday wardrobe,” said Hailey. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work closely with the brand to pull these iconic pieces and present them in a way that feels like a true reflection of my style.”
“Hailey has an enviable and often imitated street style, and she has quickly emerged as a fashion icon for this generation,” said Gene Yoon, Global Chairman at FILA. “As a brand, we have always celebrated individuality and a willingness to take chances in design. Hailey is fearless with her fashion choices, versatility, authenticity, and originality in the expression of her style. FILA has become part of Hailey’s closet, and it was a natural fit to work together on this new campaign.”
The campaign launched on October 18 and will be featured in digital elements globally, including outdoor and subway signage, digital banners, and across FILA social channels.
Founded in 1911, FILA is an Italian sportswear and lifestyle brand with a rich and diverse history. Throughout its 105 years as a brand, FILA has had the opportunity to design athletic wear for some of the finest athletes in tennis, golf, skiing, basketball, and baseball. FILA products are available in over 30 countries, including Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, Japan, Korea, Brazil, and the United States.
Source: FILA
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:35 AM | View the original post
October 19, 2022
Fashion Magazine ELLE Celebrates Women in Hollywood 2022
Ariana DeBose, Anne Hathaway, Zoë Kravitz, Issa Rae, Sydney Sweeney, Sigourney Weaver, Olivia Wilde, and Michelle Yeoh were honored at ELLE Women in Hollywood celebration on October 17 in Los Angeles. The event was sponsored and presented by Ralph Lauren, Amyris, and Lexus.
Photos: ELLE, Women in Hollywood, November 2022 issue individual covers. On newsstands November 1, 2022.
LOS ANGELES, CA (October 18, 2022) - Eight remarkable women were honored at the 29th annual ELLE Women in Hollywood Celebration for their creative and cultural contributions to the worlds of music, film, television, and beyond. In partnership with presenting sponsors Ralph Lauren, Amyris, and Lexus, ELLE Editor-in-Chief Nina Garcia, feted Ariana DeBose, Anne Hathaway, Zoë Kravitz, Issa Rae, Sydney Sweeney, Sigourney Weaver, Olivia Wilde, and Michelle Yeoh. In addition, the event brought together honorees, presenters, artists, and Hollywood legends for this year’s dinner and awards celebration.
In addition to being feted at the annual awards dinner in Los Angeles, the honorees are also featured on individual covers of ELLE’s November 2022 Women in Hollywood issue, on newsstands November 1, 2022.
ELLE is a leading fashion magazine and global media brand with 45 editions, 34 websites, and more than 158 supplements worldwide. The ELLE U.S. brand reaches over 29 million influential readers, users, fans, and followers across all platforms. It inspires women to explore and celebrate style in all aspects of their lives with inclusive and innovative content.Â
Source: ELLE
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:59 AM | View the original post
October 13, 2022
Lakmé Fashion Week and Fashion Design Council of India reveal highlights of the upcoming edition in Mumbai from 12th-16th October.
Photo: Tara Sutaria as the show stopper for Aisha Rao Official at Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Photo: Showcasing trendsetting & experimental makeup looks straight from Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Photo: Gen-Next and INFD introduced new talent. Mumbai, India. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Photo: Kriti Sanon at the Lakme Fashion Week. Mumbai, India. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Lakmé Fashion Week, 12th-16th October, Mumbai Highlights:
Mumbai’s iconic, new landmark destination - Jio World Convention Centre, will hold Lakmé Fashion Week, a five-day event.
The extravaganza will kick off with the Opening Show on October 11, presented jointly by FDCI and Lakmé Fashion Week at an iconic venue, and will end with the much-awaited Lakmé Absolute Grand Finale on October 16.
Lakmé will present their skincare trend statement, the Lakmé Vit C range, in collaboration with Pankaj & Nidhi.
The FDCI Showcase of the season will be the return of master couturier Shahab Durazi with a retrospective showcase.
Several longstanding partners will return to the platform to collaborate with established designers, including NEXA x Gaurav Gupta, Lakmé Salon x Samant Chauhan, TENCEL™ x Anju Modi, R|ElanTM x Gauri & Nainika, realme x Amit Aggarwal and Logitech x Saaksha & Kinni.
Leading Designer showcases include Abraham & Thakore, Anand Kabra, Gaurang, Geisha Designs by Paras and Shalini, Nachiket Barve, Not So Serious by Pallavi Mohan, Payal Singhal, Pawan Sachdeva, Satya Paul, Shantnu and Nikhil, Shyamal & Bhumika and Rina Dhaka.
Gujarat Titans will be the first Indian Premier League team to collaborate with the event to present a dynamic streetwear collection in partnership with ace designer Kanika Goyal.
Sustainable Fashion Day curations include TENCEL™ x Anju Modi, Eká, and a showcase by Pieux - the winner of R|ElanTMpresents Circular Design Challenge in partnership with the United Nations in India.
RISE Worldwide & British Council of India will present an engaging discussion on Fashion, Climate & The Role of Women moderated by Aditi Mayer.
The FDCI Emerging Designers of the season are Khanijo, Countrymade, and Son of a Noble SNOB.
The platform’s distinguished talent discovery programs, such as INIFD GenNext, INIFD Launchpad, and NEXA, present The Spotlight x Bloni, introducing upcoming talent to the fashion industry.
FDCI will also present Pearl Academy x Graduate Fashion Week International, a prestigious global platform.
The most anticipated sale of the industry- the FDCI Designer Stockroom will be hosting its 9th edition and, for the first time, in Mumbai on the event’s last day.
Celebrated and leading designer brands from across the country will be showcasing their collections, including Aisha Rao, Abhishek Sharma, Anushree Reddy, Diksha Khanna, Eshaa Amiin, Guapa, Limerick by Abirr N’ Nanki, Mishru, Nikita Mhaisalkar, Nikhita - Mynah Designs, Nirmooha, Sanjukta Dutta, Studio Medium, SVA by Sonam & Paras Modi, Swatti Kapoor and Varun Nidhika.
With a schedule and line-up featuring some of the best designers and partners across the country, the event will commence with a spectacular Opening Show on October 11 and conclude with the best of beauty and Fashion presented by the Lakmé Absolute Grand Finale on October 16.
The platform will always offer two showcase areas (the Runway and the Atelier) for designers. In addition, it will continue to champion sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity through cutting-edge innovations and environmentally conscious initiatives. All showcases will continue to be live-streamed across the platform’s OTT partners, Jio TV and Voot, and FDCI and LFW social media channels to reach the widespread Indian and global fashion audience.
The fashion business will also be a critical driving force, with the largest ever area dedicated to the FDCI Showroom and the presence of Buyers expected from around the world.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, commented, “This season’s curation of designers truly inculcates the best talent we have in Fashion today. As we navigate the return of in-person showcases, fashion enthusiasts can expect electrifying and dynamic presentations rooted in design compositions that present themselves as nothing short of art on the runway. FDCI is delighted to be back in Mumbai with a grand edition, several unique FDCI showcases, and a huge focus on the fashion business.”
Source: Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) / Lakmé Fashion Week
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:21 AM | View the original post
October 2, 2022
MONDIACULT 2022: States adopt historic Declaration for Culture
• One hundred-fifty States unanimously adopted an ambitious Declaration for Culture on Friday at the end of a three-day conference convened by UNESCO. The text affirms Culture as a “global public good.” It reflects countries’ agreement on a joint roadmap to strengthen public policies in this field.
Photos: MONDIACULT 2022. UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development. Images provided by & copyright © UNESCO / Juan Luis M. Acevez.
Mexico, September 30, 2022 — MONDIACULT 2022, the most significant world conference devoted to Culture in the last 40 years, brought together nearly 2,600 participants over three days in Mexico City. At UNESCO’s and Mexico’s invitations, 150 States sent delegations to the conference, and 135 of them were represented at the highest level by ministers of Culture.
“Culture has a fundamental role in our societies. People can discover their common humanity through Culture and become free and enlightened citizens. Yet, despite progress, it still does not have the place it deserves in public policies and international cooperation. MONDIACULT 2022 is a powerful signal to change this. The Declaration adopted today is a commitment to action,” UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said.
In the Declaration, the fruit of ten months of multilateral negotiations led by UNESCO, States affirm for the first time that Culture is a “global public good.” Consequently, States call for Culture to be included “as a specific objective in its own right” among the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The text defines a set of cultural rights that need to be considered in public policies, ranging from artists’ social and economic rights to artistic freedom. Also included is the right of indigenous communities to safeguard and transmit their ancestral knowledge and protect and promote cultural and natural heritage.
It also calls for substantial regulation of the digital sector, notably of the major platforms, to benefit online cultural diversity, artists’ intellectual property rights, and fair access to content for all.
Stepping up the fight against illicit trafficking in cultural property: In the Declaration, governments also commit to intensify the fight against illegal trafficking in cultural goods with increased international cooperation. They call on art market operators not to offer for sale objects whose provenance is not proven.
The emphasis on “unprovenanced” objects calls for protecting vulnerable archaeological sites. The Declaration mandates UNESCO to propose standard-setting instruments to meet these challenges.
On the same subject, Ms. Azoulay announced the creation by UNESCO and INTERPOL of a virtual museum of stolen cultural property. It will serve as an educational and pedagogical tool so that citizens can learn about the history of these works and help people research the provenance of pieces about which they are unsure. The virtual museum will be up and running by 2025.
A delegation headed by the Minister of State for Culture, Arjun Ram Meghwal, represented India at UNESCO-MONDIACULT 2022 World Conference.
Source: UNESCO
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:41 AM | View the original post
September 24, 2022
Academy Reveals 2022 Student Academy Awards Winners
• All Winning Films are now eligible for the 2022 Oscars
Photo: Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell pose backstage with their Oscars during the live ABC telecast of the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Image Credit: Luis Alberto Rodriguez / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has voted 14 students as winners of the 49th Student Academy Awards competition. This year, the Student Academy Awards competition received a total of 1,796 entries from 614 colleges and universities around the world. The 2022 winners join past Student Academy Award winners such as Patricia Cardoso, Pete Docter, Spike Lee, Patricia Riggen, and Robert Zemeckis.
The winners are (listed alphabetically by category):
Alternative/Experimental
- Olivia Peace, “Against Reality,” University of Southern California
Animation
- Jan Gadermann and Sebastian Gadow, “Laika & Nemo,” Konrad Wolf Film University of Babelsberg, Germany
- Lachlan Pendragon, “An Ostrich Told Me the World Is Fake, and I Think I Believe It,” Griffith Film School, Australia
- Yanis Belaid, Eliott Benard and Nicolas Mayeur, “The Seine’s Tears,” Pôle 3D Digital & Creative School, France
Documentary
- Shuhao Tse, “Found,” New York University
- Jared Peraglia, “Here to Stay,” New York University
- Gabriella Canal and Michael Fearon, “Seasons,” Columbia University
Narrative
- Nils Keller, “Almost Home,” University of Television and Film Munich, Germany
- Welf Reinhart, “Rooms,” University of Television and Film Munich, Germany
- Freddy Macdonald, “Shedding Angels,” American Film Institute
First-time honors go to Pôle 3D Digital & Creative School.
All Student Academy Award-winning films are eligible to compete for the 2022 Oscars in the Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film, or Documentary Short Film categories. Past winners have gone on to receive 65 Oscar nominations and have won or shared 14 awards.
For the first time since 2019, students will participate in an in-person award ceremony on Thursday, October 20, at 7:30 p.m., at the David Geffen Theater in Los Angeles. The Academy will announce the Gold, silver, and bronze medal placements in the four award categories at the ceremony.
The 49th Student Academy Awards ceremony on October 20 is free and open to the public, but advance tickets are required. The David Geffen Theater is located at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures at 6067 Wilshire Boulevard.
Starting this year, the Student Academy Awards no longer distinguish between domestic (U.S.-based) and international (non-U.S.-based) schools for categories. Regardless of where they are from, all eligible submissions now qualify for the competition category the filmmaker selected in their submission application.
The Student Academy Awards were established in 1972. They provide a platform for emerging global talent to showcase their work.
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:02 AM | View the original post
September 23, 2022
71st MISS UNIVERSE competition to be held in New Orleans
Photo: Maria Thattil, Miss Universe Australia 2020 and a 2021 Miss Universe Competition Contestant. Image provided by & copyright © The Miss Universe Organization, New York. [File Photo]
NEW YORK, NY (September 23, 2022) - The Miss Universe Organization has announced the 71st MISS UNIVERSE competition will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Saturday, January 14, 2023.
“There is no place like New Orleans. This vibrant city has been at the top of our list to host for quite some time due to its rich cultural history, as well as its unique arts, entertainment, and culinary scene,” said Paula Shugart, President of The Miss Universe Organization. “I look forward to our delegates from all over the world getting to experience all it has to offer.”
The highly anticipated event will feature almost 90 women from around the globe vying for the job of Miss Universe through the process of personal statements, in-depth interviews, and various categories, including evening gowns & swimwear. The evening will culminate with the 70th Miss Universe, Harnaaz Sandhu, who brought the title back to India for the first time in twenty-one years, crowning her successor.
“My time as Miss Universe has been an incredible experience, and I am so grateful for all the opportunities I have received due to this platform,” said Sandhu. “I’m very excited that I will be crowning the next titleholder in New Orleans and that she will kick off her reign in such an exciting and special city known for its resiliency, music, and grand celebrations.”
“The City of New Orleans and the Miss Universe Organization share common values of celebrating inclusion, culture, and the empowerment of women,” said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, the first female Mayor in the city’s 300-year history. “Former Miss Universe delegates and winners have gone on to become surgeons, diplomats, politicians, and business leaders, and they all champion social causes that are important to them. In addition, hosting this event demonstrates the significant global impact an international city like New Orleans has on the world’s tourism and cultural stages. We are honored to host the 71st annual Miss Universe pageant and show people around the globe why New Orleans is the best at executing major events, festivals, conferences, and conventions with an unmatched culture.”
Source: The Miss Universe Organization
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:50 AM | View the original post
September 15, 2022
Emily Ratajkowski Turns Heads in New York in LILYSILK Silk Poppy Skirt
Photo: Emily Ratajkowski looking stylish in her LILYSILK Silk Poppy Skirt in New York.
NEW YORK, September 14, 2022 — LILYSILK, the world’s leading silk brand, was the clothing of choice for supermodel Emily Ratajkowski. She was looking stylish on the streets of New York as she headed to a concert wearing the LILYSILK Minimalist Aesthetic Silk Poppy Skirt.
Multiple top media outlets, including British Vogue, Elle Netherlands, and Harper’s Bazaar, covered her street look, saying Ms. Ratajkowski “put an edgy spin on the romantic ensemble by pairing the set with a pair of black knee-high Cowgirl boots.” Emily Ratajkowski earlier graced the Paris Fashion Week runway and Milan Fashion Week.
According to LILYSILK, “A clear-cut case of contemporary meets classic, this ultra-cool midi silk skirt is inspired by 90s minimalist aesthetic. A best-seller from the LILYSILK Spring 2022 Collection, the bias-cut adds comfort and movement, making it an ideal piece to be worn at home for a touch of luxury or as an elevated essential for the spring social calendar. Paired with LILYSILK’s matching Osmanthus shirt of the same edition makes styling easier and more fashion-forward than ever.”
“Emily Ratajkowski brings us a fresh look,” said David Wang, CEO of LILYSILK. “Silk has always represented elegance, femininity, and fashion, but now we are spicing women’s wardrobes with our classy silk pieces such as the Silk Poppy Skirt. We hope more people can express their style and personality wearing LILYSILK.”
LILYSILK is a world-leading silk brand. It says its “mission is to inspire people to live spectacularly as well as more sustainably.”
Source: LILYSILK
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:02 PM | View the original post
September 12, 2022
Keds and Altuzarra Debut Collaboration at New York Fashion Week: The Shows
• Footwear Collaboration Continues Keds Partnership with IMG as ‘The Official Sole of NYFW’
Photo: Keds and Altuzarra Debut Collaboration at New York Fashion Week: The Shows.
NEW YORK, Sept. 11, 2022 — Sneaker brand Keds, well-known for its long-standing brand partnerships, debuts an exclusive footwear collection with luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand, Altuzarra, during Altuzarra’s New York Fashion Week show. This collection launch is a continuation of Keds’ partnership with IMG and New York Fashion Week: The Shows that have solidified Keds as the ‘Official Sole of NYFW’ for the second season. The footwear collection features new sneaker styles in varying colorways and cements Keds’ position as a style leader in the collaborative footwear category.
“Our partnership with Altuzarra marks Keds’ emergence into the luxury fashion space with our iconic silhouettes reimagined through the lens of the talented Joseph Altuzarra,” said Jen Lynch, VP and General Manager of Keds. “The collection delivers unique styles in luxe fabrications for our customers in styles they cherish.”
Keds displayed the exclusive first look of the limited-edition footwear collection with the brand during the Sept. 10 Altuzarra fashion show in New York City. It featured never-seen-before sneaker styles that merge the two distinct brand aesthetics in new design features. “I am so thrilled to be collaborating with Keds this season. Their iconic brand language and heritage were a huge source of inspiration, and the resulting footwear collection adds an exciting and dynamic layer to the show,” said Joseph Altuzarra.
“This collection marks an exciting time for two beloved brands to seamlessly bring to life the creative fashion minds of two teams,” said Patrick Connors, the Senior Vice President of Global Brand Partnerships for IMG’s Fashion Events and Properties.
Keds. Wear Yours. — Keds is a division of Wolverine Worldwide, the world’s leading maker of casual, work, outdoor, athletic, and children’s footwear.
Founded by creative director Joseph Altuzarra in 2008, Altuzarra is a luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand.
IMG is a global sports, fashion, events, and media leader. It is a subsidiary of Endeavor, an international sports, and entertainment company.
Source: Keds
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:45 AM | View the original post
September 2, 2022
Ministry of Culture, India, celebrates the successful inscription of 'Durga Puja in Kolkata' on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021
Photos: UNESCO Headquarters Paris. The UNESCO Director-General handed over the “Certificate of inscription of Durga Puja in Kolkata to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage” to the Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO. Images provided by & Copyright © UNESCO/Lily CHAVANCE.
New Delhi, India, August 31, 2022 — The Ministry of Culture and Sangeet Natak Akademi, the designated nodal agency for Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), in collaboration with the National Museum and National Museum Institute, organized the celebration of the successful inscription of ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ on the Representative List of ICH of Humanity in 2021.
A mesmerizing dance ballet, Devi Rising, was presented by the renowned Odissi dancer and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Smt. Sharmila Biswas and her troupe from Kolkata. It enthralled the audience and the guests by depicting Devi Durga or the feminine shakti through aesthetically conceptualized choreography, music, costumes, and theme.
Ms. Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Mr. Tim Curtis, Secretary of UNESCO’s 2003 ICH Convention; Mr. Eric Falt, Director and UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka; Ms. Ritu Sethi, ICH expert; Ms. Shikha Jain & Prof. Manvi Seth, National Museum Institute; Mr. Arvind Kumar, Director/ UNESCO, Ministry of Culture; Mr. Suman Kumar of Sangeet Natak Akademi, and officers from Ministry of External Affairs graced the occasion with their presence.
The Secretary, Convention for Safeguarding the Intangible Culture Heritage, UNESCO, Mr. Tim Curtis, spoke about the developments in UNESCO’s 2003 ICH Convention. He stated that UNESCO will now accept ICH dossiers in the language of the practitioners, along with English or French, for evaluation.
Director and UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka, Eric Falt, said, “I think it is essential to bring together all of the stakeholders and different groups involved in such nominations and this workshop.” He added, “I’m grateful to all of the other partners who have worked with us in the past few years to raise the importance and visibility of intangible cultural heritage.” He also mentioned that UNESCO is organizing an ICH workshop at the regional level in Udaipur, bringing several representatives from various countries.
Joint Secretary Ministry of Culture Ms. Lily Pandeya said, “India is a member of almost all of the UNESCO Cultural Conventions and Programs. In addition, India continues to strengthen the intercultural dialogue among nations with 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 14 intangible cultural heritage elements inscribed on Representative List, nine documentary heritage elements recognized in the International Memory of the World Register, and 6 Creative Cities.”
‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ was inscribed on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during its 16th session in Paris, France, from 13th to 18th December 2021.
Source: India Ministry of Culture
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:30 AM | View the original post
September 1, 2022
U.S. Postal Service issues two new stamps. One on Elephants, the other on Christmas.
• Elephants Stamp
Photo: Elephants star on Forever Stamps on World Elephant Day.
The U.S. Postal Service celebrated the majestic, playful, and highly intelligent elephant with a first-day-of-issue stamp ceremony.
“We love elephants because of their physical characteristics, social intelligence, capacity for empathy, self-awareness, teamwork, and because they share so many of our best qualities,” said Jeffery Adams, USPS corporate communications vice president, who served as the dedicated official. “What a pleasure it is to honor these magnificent creatures on World Elephant Day with a beautiful Forever stamp.”
According to USPS, the stamp’s fanciful digital illustration of an elephant and its young calf depicts the affectionate nature of the beloved animals. Two stylized plants and a bright orange sun add whimsy and color to this lighthearted stamp. In the upper left-hand corner, the word “Forever” is in black, and the letters “USA” are in gray. The booklet cover details the adult elephant, with a green plant and orange sun to the left. Artis Rafael López created the original art and designed the stamp.
• Christmas Stamp
Photo: U.S. Postal Service announces new Christmas Forever postage stamps.
The U.S. Postal Service is dedicating a new Christmas stamp featuring “Virgin and Child,” an oil-on-panel painting from the first half of the 16th century by an unidentified Florentine artist known as “the Master of Scandicci Lamentation.”
“The painting depicts the Virgin Mary gazing downward at the infant Christ, one of her arms holding him protectively at his waist, the other tenderly touching his arm, while the Christ child turns his head to look out of the frame to the left,” USPS explained.
The 16th-century painting “Virgin and Child” is part of the Robert Dawson Evans Collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:41 AM | View the original post
August 11, 2022
Global Citizen announces lineups for the 2022 Global Citizen Festival in New York City & Accra, Ghana, on September 24, 2022
Photo: Global Citizen Ambassador Priyanka Chopra Jonas will host the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York City, on September 24, 2022.
NEW YORK, August 11, 2022 — International advocacy organization Global Citizen has announced the lineups for the 10th anniversary Global Citizen Festival. The festival will occur in New York City’s Central Park, presented by Citi and Cisco, and Black Star Square in Accra, Ghana, presented by Harith General Partners, on Saturday, September 24, 2022.
Since it lit up Central Park’s Great Lawn in 2012, the Global Citizen Festival has become the world’s longest-running global campaign calling for an end to extreme poverty. The event unites millions of voices, amplified by the world’s most prominent artists, demanding world leaders take action NOW.
Globally, the disproportionate impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed nearly 100 million more people into extreme poverty and is reversing recent trends of shrinking inequality, leading to the loss of at least three years of progress. Without urgent action, this backsliding will only worsen, the organization said. In addition, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has aggravated the situation further, with as many as 323 million people facing acute hunger and 1.2 billion people currently living in nations experiencing a perfect storm of food, energy, and financial crises. If we don’t take action now, as many as 200 million more people may be plunged into extreme poverty by November, Global Citizen warned.
The 2022 Global Citizen Festival will call on world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly and the G20 and COP27 to step up and invest $600 million. The investment will go into the future of women and girls, close the annual $10 billion climate financing shortfall, deliver $500 million to help African farmers respond to the global food crisis, and provide urgent relief from crushing debts to End Extreme Poverty.
With two stages in international cultural capitals, New York City and Accra, Ghana, the 2022 Global Citizen Festival will be broadcast and streamed on ABC, ABC News Live, FX, Hulu, iHeartRadio, TimesLIVE, Twitter, YouTube, and more. ABC News Live’s broadcast will air on Saturday, September 24, and a primetime special, Global Citizen Festival: Take Action NOW, will air on ABC on Sunday, September 25 at 7:00 pm ET / 6:00 pm CT. Different tune-in details to follow in the coming weeks.
Performers on the Central Park stage will include Metallica, Charlie Puth, Jonas Brothers, MÃ…NESKIN, Mariah Carey, Mickey Guyton, and RosalÃa, with more to be announced. In addition, actor, producer, author, and Global Citizen Ambassador Priyanka Chopra Jonas will host the Global Citizen Festival in NYC.
Marking the 65th anniversary of Ghana’s independence and the 20th anniversary of the African Union, Accra’s iconic Black Star Square will see live performances from Usher, SZA, Stormzy, Gyakie, H.E.R., Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and TEMS with more to be announced.
“Decades of systemic and political failures have led humanity into the midst of converging and rapidly deteriorating crises - climate, hunger, health, war, and conflict. We demand a secure future for girls everywhere. We demand governments keep their promises on climate funding. We demand relief from debts unjustly crashing economies. And we demand action NOW, while there’s still time to change our collective trajectory,” Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Global Citizen, said.
Source: Global Citizen
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:45 AM | View the original post
July 31, 2022
World Ducati Week 2022 concludes with the Lenovo Race of Champions.
The event had Eighty thousand attendees over the three days, with participants from 84 countries and over 6 million impressions on social media for an event that involved fans from all over the world.
The record-breaking parade of motorbikes colored the Misano circuit and the entire Riviera Romagnola.
Pecco Bagnaia triumphed in the Lenovo Race of Champions on the Panigale V4 S in special livery after setting the fastest lap in 1m35.886s.
Claudio Domenicali, Ducati CEO: “World Ducati Week celebrates the deepest soul of Ducati: we don’t sell motorcycles, but we design experiences and emotions for our fans.”
Photos: World Ducati Week 2022. Images provided by & copyright © Ducati.
Misano Adriatico/Borgo Panigale, Italy, July 30, 2022 - The World Ducati Week 2022 has ended. The event brought together Ducatisti and fans of the world of two wheels for three days of passion, fun, and unforgettable experiences at Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli.”
The passion for the brand and the desire to be present at the great Ducati gathering attracted many fans to Misano. Despite the difficulties in moving around and traveling that still characterize today’s scenario, as well as the pandemic and sweltering temperatures of this period, they crowded the paddock reaching 80,000 visitors over the three days.
The participants came from 84 countries, demonstrating the global dimension of Ducati and the appeal that the brand has to motorcyclists worldwide.
The main protagonists of the three days were the 235 Ducati Official Clubs present at the event, which animated the area of ​​the International Village dedicated to them together with all the Ducati subsidiaries.
“At World Ducati Week, we can experience the celebration of Ducati’s deepest soul: we do not merely sell motorcycles, but we design experiences and emotions with bikes at the center for our fans,” declared Claudio Domenicali, Ducati CEO. “We all wanted to go back to being together with the Ducatisti, and they arrived in massive numbers from all over the world, even though we are still in the presence of travel restrictions and therefore we were not able to welcome anyone from China for example. The big parade on Friday, the crazy Lenovo Race of Champions, the Rustida on the pit straight, the greetings of the riders at the Misano stadium, the musical evenings, and the fireworks show impressed and excited me. These are just some moments that will remain in the memory of each person who came to this 2022 edition. I want to thank all the participants and the staff made up mainly of Ducati employees who, as usual, were present in great strength and worked hard to make this incredible experience possible.”
The most keenly awaited moment was the Lenovo Race of Champions, starring 21 Ducati riders competing in the MotoGP, Superbike and Supersport championships, who fought it out on standard Panigale V4 S and Panigale V2 bikes, equipped only with slick tires and racing exhausts. A unique show that only Ducati can offer its fans, which saw Pecco Bagnaia triumph after setting the fastest lap in 1m35.886s, only two and a half seconds more than the time from this year’s Superbike pole position at Misano. Federico Caricasulo took the victory in the Panigale V2 category.
Many fans followed the race from the Misano stands, giving rise to tremendous cheering. Tens of thousands of spectators joined them, connecting from home to the live streaming on the Ducati website. But not only that: as many as nine international televisions and online streaming services broadcast the race live on their schedule, making the Lenovo Race of Champions a truly global event. For example, in Italy, the Sky Sport MotoGP channel broadcasted the race with the commentary of Guido Meda and Mauro Sanchini and the contribution of Sandro Donato Grosso from the starting grid.
Source: DUCATI
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Urban Motard mood
— Ducati (@DucatiMotor) June 22, 2022
📷 Mateo Medina pic.twitter.com/CLNyRGuoxn
🚀 @PeccoBagnaia soars to another first place 🚀 #DutchGP #DucatiLenovoTeam Don’t miss the Lenovo Race of Champions at #WDW2022 pic.twitter.com/y8BK92dQBo
— Ducati (@DucatiMotor) June 27, 2022
After four long years of waiting, the most beautiful World Ducati Week of all time concludes. With 80,000 passionate Ducatisti from 84 countries enjoying events, talks, shows and of course the exciting Lenovo Race of Champions! See more here - https://t.co/P3gzrC4yaV#WDW2022 pic.twitter.com/x5KYc6078m
— Ducati (@DucatiMotor) July 25, 2022
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:44 AM | View the original post
July 27, 2022
The United International Baseball League creates the first-ever professional baseball league to serve India, Pakistan, and the Middle East.
Team of global sports executives partners with Hall of Fame Baseball Icons Mariano Rivera and Barry Larkin to launch a league in Dubai.
NEW YORK and DUBAI, UAE, July 25, 2022 — The United International Baseball League (UIBL) announced today its plan to bring professional baseball to India, Pakistan, and the Middle East, beginning with an Inaugural Showcase that will take place in Dubai in February 2023. In addition, the UIBL has partnered with Hall of Fame baseball legends Mariano Rivera and Barry Larkin to help build, develop and grow the league. They are two of the sport’s most iconic and decorated stars, with a combined six World Series Championships and 25 All-Star Game selections.
The Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East region are home to two billion people. More than 900 million people are fans of cricket - the world’s most popular bat and ball sport. Yet, while baseball exists in small pockets across South Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, there is an absence of professional leagues and a void of deep, grassroots player development expertise and infrastructure. The UIBL team is looking to change that.
“I’m very grateful to be a part of the UIBL’s exciting mission to inspire two billion new fans to fall in love with baseball,” said Rivera. He is a professional baseball’s career leader in saves and games finished and the only player ever unanimously elected to the Hall of Fame. “We believe there is an amazing opportunity to educate, inspire and entertain those cricket fans, and open their hearts to an exciting and culturally-relevant form of baseball.”
American baseball is a $13 billion business with nearly 100 million fans across the U.S. and Canada and a rabid following throughout Latin America. However, the game has yet to connect with South Asian and Middle Eastern sports fans, who collectively represent the world’s most extensive cricket fan base. For example, more than 167 million South Asia watched the International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup last year - 70 million more than the Super Bowl and over 150 million more than the World Series.
“We want to honor the game, and we want to change it,” said Kanwal S. Sra, Founder, Chairman, and CEO, of the UIBL. “We’re excited to help share the beauty and heritage of the game with a part of the world that has yet to embrace it fully. And we’re also excited to do some things differently, acting on years of data, decades of research, and centuries of cultural understanding. But, most importantly, we are passionate about helping unleash the next generation of Indian, Pakistani, and Emirati sports heroes that millions of fans will be able to connect with and relate to for years to come. There’s no better place to begin this journey than Dubai, one of the most iconic cities in the world. Exceptional leaders drive Dubai with a shared vision of growth through sports and entertainment, and we are honored to partner with them.”
The UIBL will introduce new rule changes, create original gameplay concepts, and bring a more immersive viewing experience for fans at the stadium and in their home. In addition to innovations in gameplay and entertainment, the UIBL will pioneer a multi-country league format that will include players from across the world and enable international competition. The league has already begun activating its international scouting and South Asia-focused development program, with a vision to partner with exceptional local organizations to build UIBL Baseball Academies across the region.
As part of its launch, the UIBL also introduced its brand logo and design, which artistically captures the most exciting moment in baseball - the home run. Each element of the brand helps educate the region on the game and inspires the imagination of younger fans.
“Not many moments in sports measure up to the energy and excitement of a home run,” said Kash Shaikh, President and Chief Marketing Officer of the UIBL. “The crack of the bat. The roar of the crowd. The rise in the stands meets the elevation of the ball. A home run can unite a stadium with a single swing. And it’s done just that for over a century. We wanted to capture that moment and share some of that magic with a new generation of fans in South Asia and the Middle East. I can’t wait for our Dubai fans to experience it for themselves.”
Source: United International Baseball League
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:44 AM | View the original post
July 21, 2022
UNESCO names Strasbourg, France, as World Book Capital for 2024
Photo: Strasbourg, France, World Book Capital for 2024. Image Credit: Kelly Lenfest.
Photo: Strasbourg, France, World Book Capital for 2024. Image Credit: Billy Wilson.
Paris, July 20, 2022: Following the evaluation of the World Book Capital Advisory Committee, the Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, has designated Strasbourg (France) as World Book Capital for 2024.
“In uncertain times, many turn to books as a refuge and a source of dreams. Indeed, books have the unique ability both to entertain and to teach. Therefore, we must ensure everyone can access knowledge and reflection through books and reading. Each year UNESCO designates a world book capital. After Guadalajara in 2022 and Accra in 2023, I am pleased to declare the designation of Strasbourg as World Book Capital for 2024,” UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay announced.
UNESCO and the World Book Capital Advisory Committee were impressed by Strasbourg’s strong focus on books to meet the challenges of social tensions and climate change, with programs like ‘Reading for the Planet.’ In addition, the city emphasizes books’ ability to encourage debate and discussion of environmental concerns and scientific knowledge, focusing on young people as change agents.
Strasbourg also got commended for its literary heritage and organized activities, highlighting many artistic disciplines, from music to theatre and illustration. In addition, the city has significant experience in organizing large-scale outward-looking events.
The celebrations will start on April 23, 2024, on World Book and Copyright Day.
• World Book Capitals
Cities designated as UNESCO World Book Capital undertake to promote books and reading for all ages and groups, within and across national borders, and to organize a program of activities for the year.
As the twenty-fourth city to bear the title since 2001, Strasbourg follows:
- Madrid (2001)
- Alexandria (2002)
- New Delhi (2003)
- Antwerp (2004)
- Montreal (2005)
- Turin (2006)
- Bogota (2007)
- Amsterdam (2008)
- Beirut (2009)
- Ljubljana (2010)
- Buenos Aires (2011)
- Erevan (2012)
- Bangkok (2013)
- Port Harcourt (2014)
- Incheon (2015)
- Wroclaw (2016)
- Conakry (2017)
- Athens (2018)
- Sharjah, (2019)
- Kuala Lumpur (2020)
- Tbilisi (2021)
- Guadalajara (2022)
- Accra (2023)
The UNESCO World Book Capital Advisory Committee comprises representatives of the European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF), International Authors Forum (IAF), International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), International Publishers Association (IPA), and UNESCO.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:48 AM | View the original post
July 17, 2022
Pony Cars Power Onto Stamps
Photo: Pony Cars Power Onto Stamps.
WASHINGTON, July 17, 2022: The U.S. Postal Service will commemorate the heyday of the pony car era with five new stamps featuring some of the most famous examples of these youth-oriented vehicles.
The first-day-of-issue event for the Pony Cars Forever stamp will take place on August 25, 2022, at the Great American Stamp Show in partnership with the American Philatelic Society. The ceremony is free and open to the public.
In the 1960s, a new vehicle breed began appearing on U.S. roads. Over the past six decades, fast and fun pony cars have become a uniquely American obsession. Since their emergence, these performance coupes and convertibles have brought a youthful spirit to the automotive world.
In the mid-to-late 20th century, American automakers began catering to a segment of their customer base that was rapidly growing — younger drivers. These drivers craved sporty, affordable cars that looked and felt different from what was in their parents’ garages. Several manufacturers initially produced models that fit that description, but the pony car trend did not begin in earnest until 1964.
By the 1970s energy crisis, sales of the once ubiquitous pony cars had begun to decline. But by the end of the decade, the cars had a resurgence. In addition, pony cars were cultural icons; throughout the 1970s, they appeared in many television shows and movies.
Since then, the popularity of pony cars has ebbed and flowed. But over the past two decades, automakers have reintroduced many of the beloved models first launched in the genre’s heyday. So today, adventurous drivers enjoy the thrill of driving pony cars.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:14 AM | View the original post
July 14, 2022
Longines welcomes South Korean award-winning actress and singer Suzy as its new Ambassador of Elegance.
Photos: Longines welcomes South Korean award-winning actress and singer Suzy as its new Ambassador of Elegance. Images provided by & copyright © Longines.
Suzy made her debut in 2010 with the K Pop group Miss A and has since had a significant impact on pop culture with her leading roles on the big screen and television, associations with high-end fashion houses, and stellar music career.
Equally enthusiastic about this new partnership, Suzy says: “It is my great pleasure to join Longines, a prestigious watch brand with 190 years of history. I look forward to all the elegant journeys, precious time together, and connections I will make as a Longines Ambassador of Elegance.”
Immediately after making her musical debut as a member of the girl group Miss A, Suzy’s star rose quickly. She began hosting various events and soon ventured into acting, for which she received many awards. Her solo music career began in 2017 with her prerelease single “Pretend” topping music charts. This year, she released her newest single, “Satellite,” to widespread acclaim.
Longines CEO Matthias Breschan welcomed Suzy to the Longines family, saying: “With her brilliant reputation and impeccably cultivated elegance, Suzy is a natural fit for Longines. We are excited to welcome her to our family of Ambassadors of Elegance and work with her on various projects. Fans of our brand and Suzy’s followers have so much to look forward to.”
Source: Longines
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:13 AM | View the original post
July 9, 2022
UNESCO Creative Cities will reunite in Santos, Brazil, for their Annual Conference
Photo: Boat at Sunset in Brazil. Image credit: Celso Castro Júnior.
Paris, July 9, 2022 — UNESCO, in collaboration with Santos (Brazil), a Creative City of Film, will be holding the XIV UCCN (UNESCO Creative Cities Network) Annual Conference from 18 to July 22, 2022. Delegates from member cities will meet again for the most important event of the Network.
Hosted for the first time in Latin America, the Conference will offer a unique occasion to strengthen the ties between cities worldwide. Furthermore, it will serve as a platform to reflect on the Network’s strategic objectives, in line with UNESCO’s priorities, and the global context of the post-COVID-19 recovery.
Under the theme “Creativity, path to equality,” this year’s Conference will focus on the role of culture and creativity in reducing social and economic inequalities and revitalizing urban spaces, notably for marginalized urban groups.
The official kick-off of the Conference will be a collective clean-up of the famous Gonzaga beach to emphasize the importance of building sustainable and environmentally friendly urban environments. This awareness-raising event will invite Mayors and delegates to take concrete action towards positively impacting the local ecosystem and call on cities worldwide to act for environmental resilience.
During the 5-day Conference, participants will exchange and work with one another through different activities, ranging from plenary sessions to cluster meetings. There will also be a special Integration Session for the new members, offering an excellent opportunity to obtain a general understanding of the Network and interact with other member cities and stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore the collaborative potential. The Conference will give special attention to a series of Transversal Thematic Panels around six themes in line with UNESCO’s global priorities:
- Advancing gender equality
- Empowering youth
- Strengthening climate action
- Fostering post-pandemic recovery
- Promoting technologies and innovation
- Reinforcing international cooperation through culture and creative initiatives
The Annual Conference will also feature the Mayor’s Forum, a primary platform for Mayors of the Creative Cities to showcase and share their cities’ vision, policies, actions, and good practices with their counterparts, city delegates, and other relevant stakeholders. This year, the Public Session will allow mayors to enrich Creative Cities’ joint reflection and convey a strong message about the role of culture and creativity in building sustainable and inclusive cities. In addition, the Private Session will provide participating mayors with an exclusive platform to exchange with UNESCO representatives on harnessing the full potential of culture and creativity to address urban challenges and opportunities.
In parallel to the Conference, an additional cultural program, including exhibitions, film screenings, culinary shows, master classes, and encounters with writers and film directors, will also be organized in the Creative Pavilions by the Host City of Santos. Focused on the seven creative fields of the Network, these Pavilions will be open to all Conference attendees and the general public for participation in cultural activities.
Source: UNESCO Creative Cities Network
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The editor contributes to the enhancement of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) worldwide.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:59 PM | View the original post
July 2, 2022
UNESCO calls for "Global Mobilization" of Education
Photo: Paris, France. June 29, 2022. Some 2,000 participants from around the world gathered at UNESCO headquarters in Paris from June 28 to June 30 to prepare for the Education Transformation Summit. The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is mobilizing the world’s education communities and governments for the Summit, which the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has convened. The Summit will be attended by the Heads of State and will take place in New York in September 2022. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Lily CHAVANCE.
JUNE 30, PARIS - Education ministers and vice-ministers of 154 countries and nearly 2000 participants came together at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris to discuss transforming education, inspired by the rallying call from young people.
The Pre-Summit, a precursor to the Transforming Education Head of State-level Summit, convened by the UN Secretary-General in New York this September, comes after more than two years of the most massive disruption in learning in recorded history, brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The UNESCO meeting supports a global breakthrough to more sustainable, peaceful futures, as called for in the report on ‘Our Common Agenda.’
It sets out to tackle the education loss and the profound structural flaws of education systems worldwide. Halfway to the deadline to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal on Education, participants were adamant the world must not only get back on track but transform education from the ground up.
Sources: UNESCO, Paris. United Nations, New York.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The Editor is a UNESCO IIEP (International Institute for Educational Planning, Paris) trained “Independent Appraiser” of Education Sector Plans.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:57 PM | View the original post
June 29, 2022
QS reveals the World's Best Cities for Students.
LONDON, June 29, 2022 — QS Quacquarelli Symonds, global higher education analysts, published today the 10th edition of the QS Best Student Cities rankings, which enable students to compare 140 premier educational destinations, including 30 new entries.
London retains its status as the world’s best student city for the fourth consecutive edition. Munich (2nd =) shares its silver medal with Seoul (2nd =). Zurich (4th) and Melbourne (5th) break into the top 5, while Edinburgh (10th) joins the top 10.
London’s leadership is supported by:
- Its high concentration of world-class universities; it achieves the world’s second-best score in the Rankings indicator.
- Highly positive feedback from students that have studied in the city: it scores 98.5/100 for Student View, a result bettered only by Berlin.
- Outstanding career opportunities for graduates: it places fourth in the Employer Activity metric, scoring 92.7/100.
- Its high levels of openness to international students see it achieve the world’s fifth-best score (94.9/100) for Student Mix.
• RANKING HIGHLIGHTS
UK, Germany, and Australia are each home to two of the world’s ten best student cities.
Paris rises to eighth place. Barcelona (31st) is Spain’s top city.
Canada boasts three top-20 student cities, while the US, Japan, and Switzerland have two each.
The US highest-ranking cities are Boston (11th) and NYC (18th).
All the 18 US-ranked cities decline in the Affordability indicator.
Los Angeles and Kuala Lumpur break into the top 30.
Seoul (2nd) is Asia’s top-ranked city.
China (Mainland) top entry is Beijing (29th)
Latin America’s number-one student destination is Buenos Aires (23rd)
Sao Paulo (86th) and new-entry Rio de Janeiro (121st) are Brazil’s ranked cities.
Cape Town (78th) is Africa’s top city for students.
Dubai (51st) is the top-ranked city in the Middle East.
The fastest rising cities are Almaty (75th), Abu Dhabi (71st), and Ankara (77th).
India doubles its representation. It now has four cities on the list: Mumbai (103), Bangalore (114), Chennai (125), and Delhi (129).
• RANKING METHODOLOGY
QS ranks cities with a population of at least 250,000 and at least two universities in the QS World University Rankings. The ranking offers a powerful lens into the sentiments of both prospective and former students, with over 98,000 survey responses contributing to the Desirability (prospective students) and Student View (former students) indexes.
• QS BEST STUDENT CITIES
RANK — CITY
- London, United Kingdom
- Munich, Germany
- Seoul, South Korea
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Melbourne, Australia
- Berlin, Germany
- Tokyo, Japan
- Paris, France
- Sydney, Australia
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Boston, United States
- Hong Kong, SAR Hong Kong
- Singapore, Singapore
- Montreal, Canada
- Toronto, Canada
- Vienna, Austria
- Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe, Japan
- New York, United States
- Lausanne, Switzerland
- Vancouver, Canada
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Brisbane, Australia
- Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Manchester, United Kingdom
- San Francisco, United States
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Beijing, China (Mainland)
- Los Angeles, United States
- Adelaide, Australia
- Barcelona, Spain
- Taipei, Taiwan
- Perth, Australia
- Canberra, Australia
- Shanghai, China (Mainland)
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Dublin, Ireland
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Chicago, United States
- Coventry, United Kingdom
- Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Leuven, Belgium
- Madrid, Spain
- Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Lyon, France
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Milan, Italy
- Bristol, United Kingdom
- Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Brussels, Belgium
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Ottawa, Canada
- Leeds, United Kingdom
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Warsaw, Poland
- Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Santiago, Chile
- Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Brno, Czech Republic
- Atlanta, United States
- Philadelphia, United States
- Washington DC, United States
- Budapest, Hungary
- Helsinki, Finland
- Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Daejeon, South Korea
- Pittsburgh, United States
- Rome, Italy
- Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Durham, United States
- Ankara, Turkey
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Toulouse, France
- San Diego, United States
- Brighton, United Kingdom
- Seattle, United States
- Graz, Austria
- Nanjing, China (Mainland)
- Christchurch, New Zealand
- Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Valencia, Spain
- Stuttgart, Germany
- Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Baltimore, United States
- Krakow, Poland
- Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
- Gold Coast, Australia
- Cairo, Egypt
- Leicester, United Kingdom
- Monterrey, Mexico
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Wuhan, China (Mainland)
- Bogota, Colombia
- Miami, United States
- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Houston, United States
- Mumbai, India
- Athens, Greece
- Beirut, Lebanon
- Quebec, Canada
- Nagoya, Japan
- Riga, Latvia
- Vilnius, Lithuania
- Guangzhou, China (Mainland)
- Manila, Philippines
- Lima, Peru
- Amman, Jordan
- Bangalore, India
- Tainan, Taiwan
- Dallas, United States
- Wroclaw, Poland
- Busan, South Korea
- Montpellier, France
- Bandung, Indonesia
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Gwangju, South Korea
- Jakarta, Indonesia
- Chennai, India
- Baku, Azerbaijan
- Surabaya, Indonesia
- Kaunas, Lithuania
- Delhi, India
- Quito, Ecuador
- Timisoara, Romania
- Bucharest, Romania
- Taichung, Taiwan
- Albany, United States
- Montevideo, Uruguay
- Denver, United States
- Iasi, Romania
- Xi’an, China (Mainland)
- Irbid, Jordan
- Åódź, Poland
Source: QS Quacquarelli Symonds
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:35 PM | View the original post
June 27, 2022
Myntra StyleCast rolls out the Campus Ambassador Program, kickstarting the journey for 500 aspiring young creators from leading colleges.
The Squad of ambassadors includes micro creators from among the top universities in tier-1 and tier-2 cities.
StyleCast has scaled its offerings by 5X since launch to over 35,000 styles, offering Gen-Z shoppers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
Over 1000 influencers are part of the StyleCast influencer campaign, of which 500 are on leading campuses across India to drive salience for Myntra StyleCast and its partner brands.
Photo: Myntra StyleCast rolls out Campus Ambassador Program.
BANGALORE, India, June 27, 2022 — Strengthening its proposition for Gen-Z further, Myntra announces the launch of its Campus Ambassador program, onboarding 500 aspiring fashion influencers from leading colleges across tier-1 and tier-2 cities in the country to engage deeply with its thriving cohort of Gen-Z consumers.
Myntra announced that the Campus Ambassador program is a part of the overall Myntra StyleCast Creator initiative, which comprises over 1000 uber-trendy and fashion-first Gen-Z influencers with a deep passion for creating fresh digital content. Myntra chooses campus influencers based on their relevance with the Gen-Z audience, understanding of the content creation industry, their knack for edgy and trendy fashion, and their diversity and reach. Through this program, Myntra will enable opportunities for these young, budding fashion enthusiasts to learn the ropes of content creation and hone their skills. In addition, they will also get the chance to be mentored by some of the famous macro Myntra Style Squad influencers and be featured on Myntra’s live commerce propositions, Myntra-Studio and M-Live, and social media channels.
The Campus Squad includes an array of students aged 17-21 years from some of the leading institutions in the country, including the Indian Institute of Art & Design, Pearl Academy, NIFT, Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University, Mount Carmel College - Bengaluru, Indian Institute of Fashion Technology and Symbiosis Institute of Design - Pune to name a few. These campus ambassadors are the faces of Myntra StyleCast on their respective campuses. According to Myntra, they are among the coolest and the most fashionable kids on campus that everyone looks up to for their fresh and edgy fashion sensibilities. With Gen-Z’s heavy reliance on social media influencers for shopping inspiration, this program will help Myntra StyleCast amplify its share of voice on social media and drive end conversions on Myntra, creating a higher volume of contextual and engaging content.
As Myntra continues to strengthen its offering for fashion-forward customers across tiers, age groups, and genders, the creator-backed commerce plays a crucial role in regulating decision-making and awareness amongst the consumer groups in question.
The top trending categories on Myntra StyleCast include dresses, tops, jeans, and t-shirts, which make up 55% of the overall demand for the class.
Padmakumar Pal, Vice President & Business Head - Apparel, Myntra, said, “We are excited to launch the Campus Ambassador program, as it provides budding influencers an opportunity to grow in the creator ecosystem and become the country’s leading fashion influencers.
Myntra is one of India’s leading platforms for fashion brands.
Source: Myntra
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:09 AM | View the original post
June 23, 2022
Olympic Day 2022: Sport as a Bridge in a Divided World
Photo: IOC President Thomas Bach attends the Olympic Day celebration at a local school in Skopje. Image provided by & copyright © IOC/Greg Martin.
On Olympic Day, while the world is moving together for peace, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has reiterated the role sport can play in building bridges in our divided world and promoting global solidarity.
“The Olympic Games, which unite the entire world in peaceful competition, are a powerful symbol of peace,” said President Bach. “Our Olympic mission is not political. Our Olympic mission is humanitarian.”
Recently, global humanitarian issues have forced the world to reflect. Ongoing conflicts and the growing number of people displaced worldwide have reaffirmed an urgent need for solidarity and peace in our divided world.
On 23 June, as Olympic Day promotes this year’s message of “Together, for a Peaceful World,” the IOC President stressed that the need for solidarity and peace remains the guiding principle of the Olympic Movement and highlights the symbolic importance of the Olympic Games. “Without solidarity, there is no peace,” he said.
“In these divisive and contentious times, people worldwide are longing for a unifying force that brings humankind together. In this respect, the Olympic Movement has a lot to offer with our mission to unite the entire world in peaceful competition,” Bach continued.
Olympic Day 2022: #MoveForPeace
Celebrated every year on 23 June since 1948, Olympic Day provides a moment for everyone to come together and get active with purpose.
This year, as the world continues seeking togetherness, the IOC and the Olympic Movement highlight the power of sport to build a better world by bringing people together in peace. As part of this, people are encouraged to move together for peace today through various local physical and digital activities.
Over 135 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) have registered their commitment to Olympic Day by hosting activities such as Olympic Day runs, outdoor games for families, introductions to new sports, meetings with Olympians, and workshops on the Olympic values. In addition, IOC will organize Digital initiatives, such as virtual Olympic challenges, online workouts, virtual live chats with Olympians, online quizzes, and webinars on the Olympic values worldwide.
Everyone can join by sharing how they are moving on Olympic Day with #MoveForPeace and #OlympicDay, International Olympic Committee said.
Source: IOC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Some Table Tennis Rallies at the Olympics
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:40 AM | View the original post
June 21, 2022
VIKTOR&ROLF ANNOUNCES FKA TWIGS AS THE FACE OF NEW FRAGRANCE 'GOOD FORTUNE'
Photo: FKA twigs for Viktor&Rolf by SeanSeng. Image provided by & copyright © Viktor&Rolf.
PARIS, June 21, 2022 — Viktor&Rolf has announced that acclaimed singer, dancer, and actress FKA twigs will be the face of GOOD FORTUNE, the brand’s new fragrance.
FKA twigs is a Grammy Award-nominated artist whose innovations across the fields of music, visual arts, and dance represent future worlds and draw from past ones.
She debuted as a songwriter and singer in 2012 with EP1. Like her dancing, her music draws on various electronic, R&B, and trip-hop styles. Her Mercury Prize-nominated debut album, LP1, was released in August 2014. She directed four videos for her third EP, M3LL155X (read as Melissa), and Soundtrack 7, a dance film created and filmed at the Manchester International Festival. She has collaborated with Dua Lipa and The Weeknd.
“We’ve been fans of twigs for years,” say Viktor&Rolf designers Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren, “and we’re happy to welcome her to the Viktor&Rolf family. Not only is she one of today’s biggest pop stars, but she’s also hugely creative. She’s an icon and absolutely the right personality for GOOD FORTUNE.”
“I’ve always loved perfume,” says FKA twigs. “Scent has always been an integral part of my sensory world, and creatively collaborating with Viktor&Rolf on this project has been very fulfilling. I feel there’s this bond that unites us. Becoming part of their universe feels like magic, a dream come true.”
Following the ongoing success of FLOWERBOMB, launched in 2005, Viktor&Rolf unveiled GOOD FORTUNE. With this significant new statement, the brand has created a fragrance that expresses modern spirituality, inviting women wanting to embrace their inner modern mystic to follow their way to make their destiny.
FKA twigs will feature in a mystical ‘new-genre’ campaign film directed by Andrew Thomas Huang, to be released later this month. Legendary fashion photographers Inez & Vinoodh created the campaign’s magnetic still photography.
The campaign’s soundtrack, “Killer,” was tailor-made for the campaign by FKA twigs and will be officially unveiled in conjunction with the GOOD FORTUNE campaign.
Source: Viktor&Rolf Fragrances
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:40 AM | View the original post
June 19, 2022
Prime Minister Modi launches Historic Torch Relay for 44th Chess Olympiad.
• India to host Chess Olympiad for the first time.
Photo: Prime Minister Modi launches the torch relay for the 44th Chess Olympiad in New Delhi on June 19, 2022.
New Delhi, June 19, 2022 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India launched the historic torch relay for the 44th Chess Olympiad today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, New Delhi. FIDE (World Chess Federation) President Arkady Dvorkovich handed over the torch to the Prime Minister, who handed it over to Grandmaster Vishwanathan Anand. This torch will visit 75 cities in 40 days before the final culmination at Mahabalipuram near Chennai. At every location, chess grandmasters of the state will receive the torch. Prime Minister Modi also made the Khelo Chess Ceremonial move, followed by Ms. Koneru Humpy making a move. Union Ministers Shri Anurag Singh Thakur and Shri Nisith Pramanik, Chess players and enthusiasts, Ambassadors, and Chess Officials were also present.
FIDE (World Chess Federation) President Arkady Dvorkovich thanked the Government of India for starting the new tradition of the torch relay, which will popularise and galvanize the game worldwide. “FIDE is grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his presence and honoring us,” he said. The FIDE President hoped that Chess would become part of all schools across India and worldwide. He said, “India is the fastest-growing Chess country today, and you have all grounds to be proud of that. We are grateful for your leadership for all the fantastic work you are doing in the interest of Chess.”
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said, “Today, the first torch relay for Chess Olympiad games is starting from India. India will host the Chess Olympiad games for the first time this year. We are proud that a sport, starting from its birthplace and leaving its mark worldwide, has become a passion for many countries.” He continued, “Centuries ago, the torch of this sport went to the whole world in the form of Chaturanga from India. Today the first Olympiad torch of Chess is also coming out of India. Today, when India is celebrating its 75th year of independence, Amrit Mahotsav, this Chess Olympiad torch will also go to 75 cities of the country.” He said, “FIDE has decided that the torch relay for each Chess Olympiad game will start from India itself. This honor is not only the honor of India but also the recognition of this glorious heritage of Chess. I congratulate FIDE and all its members for this”
The Prime Minister dwelled on the Indian heritage in Chess. He said, “our ancestors invented games like Chaturanga or Chess for analytical and problem-solving brains. Chess, via India, reached many countries and became very popular. Today, Chess is being used in schools as an educational tool for young people, for children.” He noted that India has consistently improved its Chess performance in recent years. India’s contingent in the Chess Olympiad is the biggest this year.
The Prime Minister talked about many lessons that Chess gives us in our lives. Underlining the need for the proper support for everyone irrespective of their place in life, the Prime Minister said, “Just like every piece of Chess has its unique strength and a unique ability. It becomes the most powerful if you make the right move with a piece and use its power properly. This specialty of Chessboard gives us a big message about life. If given the right support and environment, no goal is impossible even for the weakest.”
The Prime Minister highlighted another lesson from Chess: “Another great feature of the game of Chess is farsightedness. Chess tells us that real success comes from far-sighted rather than short-term success.”
The 44th Chess Olympiad will take place in Chennai from July 28 to August 10, 2022. The prestigious competition, organized since 1927, is hosted in India for the first time and in Asia after 30 years. With 189 countries participating, this will be the most extensive participation in any Chess Olympiad.
Source: Prime Minister’s Office, New Delhi
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:40 PM | View the original post
June 14, 2022
TAJ IS WORLD'S STRONGEST HOTEL BRAND FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR
MUMBAI, India, June 14, 2022 — Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced that its iconic brand, Taj, has been rated the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2022 by Brand Finance. The ‘Hotels 50 2022’ annual report by the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy recognizes the most valuable and most robust hotel brands globally.
Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Indian Hotels Company, said, “We are very proud that Taj has been recognized as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand for the second time in a row. Taj is the most acclaimed benchmark of excellence in the industry globally.”
“With travelers increasingly gravitating towards brands that epitomize the essence of world-class luxury and follow responsible business practices, Taj is well poised to pave the future of hospitality. This recognition is a mark of our guests’ steadfast trust, and it celebrates the indomitable spirit of our employees, who embody the legacy of the brand while bringing alive the essence of Tajness.”
Taj received an overall Brand Strength Index of 88.9 out of 100, with a corresponding AAA rating for customer familiarity, employee satisfaction, corporate reputation, and world-class customer service.
The Hotel 50 2022 report highlights the company’s successful strategy to overcome pandemic-induced challenges and remain relevant to the need of consumers. Taj was also at the forefront in its efforts toward supporting the community, including the healthcare sector.
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service.
IHCL has a portfolio of 237 hotels, including 60 under development globally across four continents, 11 countries, and over 100 locations.
Source: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL)
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:01 PM | View the original post
May 29, 2022
Festival de Cannes Winners 2022
Photo: Indian actress Deepika Padukone. Jury Member. Image Source: Deepika Padukone / Instagram.
Cannes, France, May 29, 2022 — After 11 days of a special edition, the Jury of the 75th Festival de Cannes presented its winners’ list from the 21 films appearing in the Competition this year. French actor Vincent Lindon chaired the jury. Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, British-American actress and director Rebecca Hall, French director Ladj Ly, American director Jeff Nichols, Indian actress Deepika Padukone, Swedish actress Noomi Rapace, Norwegian director Joachim Trier, and Italian actress and director Jasmine Trinca were the other jury members.
Here is the WINNERS’ LIST
— Feature Films —
• Palme d’Or
- TRIANGLE OF SADNESS, directed by Ruben ÖSTLUND
• Grand Prix (jointly awarded)
- CLOSE directed by Lukas DHONT
- STARS AT NOON, directed by Claire DENIS
• Award for Best Director
- PARK Chan-Wook for HEOJIL KYOLSHIM (DECISION TO LEAVE)
• Award for Best Screenplay
- Tarik SALEH for WALAD MIN AL JANNA (BOY FROM HEAVEN)
• Jury Prize (jointly awarded)
- EO directed by Jerzy SKOLIMOWSKI
- LE OTTO MONTAGNE (THE EIGHT MOUNTAINS) directed by Charlotte VANDERMEERSCH & Felix VAN GROENINGEN
• 75th anniversary Prize
- TORI ET LOKITA (TORI AND LOKITA) directed by Jean-Pierre & Luc DARDENNE
• Award for Best Actress
- Zar AMIR EBRAHIMI in HOLY SPIDER directed by Ali ABBASI
• Award for Best Actor
- SONG Kang-ho in BROKER directed by KORE-EDA Hirokazu
— Short Films —
• Palme d’Or
- HAI BIAN SHENG QI YI ZUO XUAN YA (THE WATER MURMURS) directed by JIANYING CHEN
Special Mention
- LORI (MELANCHOLY OF MY MOTHER’S LULLABIES) directed by Abinash Bikram SHAH
— Un Certain Regard —
• Un Certain Regard Prize
- LES PIRES (THE WORST ONES) directed by Lise AKOKA & Romane GUERET
• Jury Prize
- JOYLAND, directed by Saim SADIQ
• Best Director Prize
- Alexandru BELC for METRONOM
• Best Performance Prize (jointly awarded)
- Vicky KRIEPS in CORSAGE directed by Marie KREUTZER
- Adam BESSA in HARKA, directed by Lotfy NATHAN
• Best Screenplay Prize
- MEDITERRANEAN FEVER, directed by Maha HAJ
• Coup de cÅ“ur Prize
- RODEO, directed by Lola QUIVORON
• Caméra d’Or
- WAR PONY, directed by Riley KEOUGH and Gina GAMMELL, presented as part of the UN CERTAIN REGARD Official Selection
Special Mention
- PLAN 75 directed by HAYAKAWA Chie
• La Cinef
First Prize
- IL BARBIERE COMPLOTTISTA (A Conspiracy Man) directed by Valerio FERRARA Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia, Italie
Second Prize
- DI ER (Somewhere) directed by LI Jiahe Hebei University of Science and Technology School of Film and Television, Chine
Joint Third Prize
- GLORIOUS REVOLUTION directed by Masha NOVIKOVA London Film School, Royaume Uni
- LES HUMAINS SONT CONS QUAND ILS S’EMPILENT (Humans Are Dumber When Crammed up Together) directed by Laurène FERNANDEZ La CinéFabrique, France
— Higher Technical Commission (CST) —
- The CST jury has awarded the CST ARTIST-TECHNICIAN AWARD 2022 to the entire sound crew headed up by Andréas Franck, Bent Holm, Jacob Ilgner, and Jonas Rudels for the film TRIANGLE OF SADNESS by Ruben Östlund. In addition, it has awarded the CST Young Film Technician Award to Marion Burger, headset designer for the film UN PETIT FRÈRE (MOTHER AND SON) by Léonor Serraille.
Source: Festival de Cannes
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:40 AM | View the original post
May 27, 2022
Swiss Watchmaker OMEGA presents its Inspiring Women Ambassadors.
Photos: Omega Women Ambassadors. (From Top) Zoë Kravitz, Allyson Felix, Kaia Gerber, Kiko Mizuhara, and So-hee Han. Images provided by & copyright © OMEGA.
Photos: Omega Ladies’ Timepieces. Two models. The Mini Trésor and The Speedmaster 38 mm. Images provided by & copyright © OMEGA.
Captured in a new series of black and white portraits, the Swiss watchmaker OMEGA is revealing the unique personalities of its inspiring women ambassadors.
“My Choice” is the latest continuation of OMEGA’s historical bond with women. For more than 100 years, the company has delivered ladies’ timepieces of reliability, beauty, and versatility - helping to support everyone from nurses and aviators to artists and actresses.
Today, OMEGA is represented worldwide by a strong family of female stars. For the latest shoot, actresses Nicole Kidman, Zoë Kravitz, So-hee Han, Dongyu Zhou, models Kaia Gerber, Kiko Mizuhara, and legendary athletes Allyson Felix joined the brand.
The result brings together a selection of classic yet fast-moving portraits.
Source: OMEGA
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Kaia Gerber and the OMEGA Constellation
Always remaining true to herself, Kaia Gerber is a model who knows her style. While fashion is always changing, she chooses a watch that has been loved by women since 1982 - the timeless OMEGA Constellation in full 18K gold.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:52 PM | View the original post
May 25, 2022
World Economic Forum's Open Forum returns to Davos.
The Open Forum Davos 2022 is hosting a series of panel discussions on 23-26 May, all open to the public upon registration.
Panelists include:
- Human rights activist and Nobel Peace Laureate Nadia Murad.
- Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko.
- Climate activist Vanessa Nakate.
- Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel.
Discussion topics range from the climate crisis and youth mental health to the war in Ukraine and the Metaverse.
Photo: Impressions from the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2022 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland. Image provided by & copyright © World Economic Forum/Mattias Nutt.
Photo: H.M. Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, Queen of the Netherlands; United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance, speaking in Unlocking Capital at Scale for Digital Inclusion at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2022 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, May 24, 2022. Image provided by & copyright © World Economic Forum/Michael Calabrò.
Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, May 25, 2022 - As part of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2022, this year’s Open Forum Davos is focusing on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the role of multilateralism for peace in Europe as well as other global challenges.
Taking place for the first time since January 2020, the Open Forum offers a platform for debate and interaction on controversial issues between the public and scholars, business leaders, and policy-makers concerning improving the state of the world.
Young and diverse voices are also playing a prominent role in the discussions, with one session on youth mental health co-designed and moderated by students from Geneva, Switzerland. In addition, each session includes at least one member of the Forum’s Global Shapers Community, a wide-ranging network of people from all walks of life and different parts of the world.
Ignazio Cassis, President of the Swiss Confederation, among other high-level panelists, is joined by Ievgeniia Bodnya, who mobilized the Global Shaper Hub she leads in Kyiv to build the Support Ukraine. In another session, Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko and his brother Wladimir, Chairman of the Klitschko Foundation, discuss how the Russian invasion has affected them and their country.
Also present at the Open Forum are climate activists, including 26-year-old Vanessa Nakate, author and climate advocate who addressed world leaders at the World Economic Forum 2020. The activists articulate how to turn words into action to fight the climate crisis. Gender equality is also featured prominently in the conversations.
The last two years have seen a blending of in-person and virtual interactions on the digital front. Peggy Johnson, Chief Executive Office of augmented reality company Magic Leap, will introduce the possibilities of the Metaverse. She will then join a panel of experts, including Pascal Kaufmann, President, and Founder of the Mindfire Foundation.
Additional panelists who are participating in this year’s Open Forum Davos include:
- Ignazio Cassis, President of the Swiss Confederation and Federal Councillor for Foreign Affairs of Switzerland
- Stephane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer, Moderna
- Isabella Eckerle, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Geneva
- Vivianne Heijnen, Minister for the Environment, Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Netherlands
- Mikaela Jade, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Indigital
- Peggy Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Magic Leap Inc.
- Marco Lambertini, Director-General, WWF International
- Edward Lewin, Vice-President and Head of Government and Public Affairs, LEGO Group
- Klaus Moosmayer, Chief Ethics, Risk and Compliance Officer, Novartis AG
- Seth Moulton, Congressman from Massachusetts
- Nadia Murad, Nobel Peace Laureate, Nadia’s Initiative; Co-Founder, Global Survivors Fund (GSF), Global Survivors Fund
- Anna Riedl, Cognitive Scientist, and Global Shaper, Vienna Hub
- Philipp Wilhelm, Mayor of Davos
- Sakena Yacoobi, Executive Director, Afghan Institute of Learning
Open Forum Programme
Monday, May 23
12.30 - 13.30 A Discussion with the Klitschkos
18.30 - 20.00 A Wake-Up Call from Nature
Tuesday, May 24
09.00 - 10.30 Growing Up in the Pandemic
14.30 - 16.00 Working Together for Peace
18.30 - 20.00 Ethical Decision-Making in Times of Crisis
Wednesday, May 25
09.00 - 10.30 Turning Words into Action
12.30 - 14.00 A Discussion about Equality
18.30 - 20.00 Racial Disparities in Refugee Treatment
Thursday, May 26
09.00 - 10.30 The Possibilities of the Metaverse
In its 19th year, the Open Forum Davos opens its doors to the public from 23 to January 26 in Davos, Switzerland. It is being held at the Tobelmühle Sports Hall, Tobelmühlestrasse 4 e, Davos Platz, Switzerland.
For over 50 years, the World Economic Forum has been the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Annual Meeting is the focal point for leaders to accelerate the partnerships needed to tackle global challenges and shape a more sustainable and inclusive future. Convening under the theme ‘History at a Turning Point: Government Policies and Business Strategies,’ the Annual Meeting 2022 and its 200 sessions bring together global leaders from business, government, and civil society.
Source: World Economic Forum
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:46 AM | View the original post
May 23, 2022
TIME Reveals Its Annual List of the 100 Most Influential People in the World
Photo: The 2022 TIME100 issue has five worldwide covers, each highlighting a member of the TIME100: actor Zendaya, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, actor Simu Liu, and recording artist Mary J. Blige.
NEW YORK, May 23, 2022 — Today, TIME revealed the 2022 TIME100, its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. The issue has five worldwide covers, each highlighting a member of the TIME100: actor Zendaya, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, actor Simu Liu, and recording artist Mary J. Blige.
The TIME100 includes surprising pairings of the list members and the guest contributors TIME selects to write about them. For example, the nineteenth annual list features Michelle Obama on Oprah Winfrey, Joe Biden on Volodymyr Zelensky, Matthew McConaughey on Channing Tatum, Denis Villeneuve on Zendaya, James Corden on Adele, Reese Witherspoon on Zoë Kravitz, Martin Scorsese on Andrew Garfield, Sandra Oh on Simu Liu, Ryan Seacrest on Kris Jenner, Laurene Powell Jobs on Tim Cook, Jeb Bush on Ron DeSantis, Tom Brady on Rafael Nadal and many more.
Of the 2022 TIME100 list, TIME editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal writes, “We hope that the TIME100 list is not simply a recognition of influence but a study in how influence can be wielded… If a crisis unites us, we must find within ourselves that same empathy. The spectrum of leaders on this list, wielding influence in so many ways, is a reminder that we all have the option to use our power for good.”
• HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2022 TIME100:
The 2022 TIME100 features dozens of entertainers, including Channing Tatum, Pete Davidson, Amanda Seyfried, Zendaya, Adele, Simu Liu, Mila Kunis, Oprah Winfrey, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Mary J. Blige, Miranda Lambert, Jon Batiste, Keanu Reeves and more.
Athletes on this year’s list include Nathan Chen, Alex Morgan, Eileen Gu, Candace Parker, Megan Rapinoe, Becky Sauerbrunn, and Rafael Nadal.
This year’s list features 49 women, including Mary J.Blige, Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Yeoh, Ariana DeBose, Adele, Miranda Lambert, Sarah Jessica Parker, Amanda Seyfried, Zendaya, Nadine Smith, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Quinta Brunson, Zoe Kravitz, Cristina Villarreal Velásquez and others.
The list features U.S. President Joe Biden and other U.S. political figures, including Kevin McCarthy, Ron DeSantis, Kyrsten Sinema, and Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Other notable writers include Sacha Baron Cohen, Mindy Kaling, LeBron James, Billy Porter, Stevie Wonder, Alexei Navalny, Jimmy Fallon, Bernie Sanders, Bowen Yang, Billie Jean King, Chip, and Joanna Gaines, Jack Harlow, Cory Booker, and more.
Xi Jinping is on the list for the 13th time, more than any other person this year. Other repeats include Oprah Winfrey (10), Vladimir Putin (7), Joe Biden (5), Christine Lagarde (5), Tim Cook (5), Adele (3), Rafael Nadal (2), Alex Morgan (2), Abiy Ahmed (2), Issa Rae (2), Megan Rapinoe (2) and Ursula von der Leyen (2).
TIME will celebrate the 2022 TIME100 list of the world’s most influential people with the return of the annual TIME100 Summit and TIME100 Gala on June 7 and June 8 in New York City.
The second annual TIME100 Summit on June 7, 2022, will convene leaders from the global TIME100 community to spotlight solutions and encourage action toward a better world. Speakers for the day-long event include Apple CEO Tim Cook; co-chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates; NBA champion, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Dwyane Wade; writer, producer, and actor Mindy Kaling; U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry; former U.S. Representative and co-founder, Giffords Gabrielle Giffords; Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley; founder and creative director, Brother Vellies Aurora James, designer Christian Siriano; head of global TV, Netflix Bela Bajaria; Olympic Champion, Freestyle Skiing Eileen Gu; writer, director, producer, and actor Taika Waititi; poet and author Cathy Park Hong; artist Jon Batiste; senior vice president, BioNTech SE Dr. Katalin Karikó; filmmakers Betsy West and Julie Cohen and more.
The 16th annual TIME100 Gala, celebrating TIME’s list of the world’s most influential people, will take place on June 8, 2022. The event will feature Mary J. Blige and Miranda Lambert performances, honorary tributes from members of this year’s list, remarks from TIME Editor-in-Chief and CEO Edward Felsenthal, and more.
Both events will occur at the Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz, at Lincoln Center, in New York City.
Source: TIME
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:32 PM | View the original post
May 19, 2022
UNESCO World Conference in Barcelona to shape the future of Higher Education
- The third UNESCO World Conference on Higher Education is taking place from May 18 to May 20, 2022, in Barcelona, Spain, to chart a renewed vision for higher education in the next decade.
Barcelona, Spain, May 18, 2022 — There are 235 million students enrolled in higher education worldwide. This number has more than doubled in the last 20 years and will likely double again over the coming decade.
Faced with such growing demand, how can we ensure quality higher education adapted to contemporary challenges such as sustainable development? How can international academic mobility be supported? What lessons can we learn from the COVID-19 pandemic? These questions will be at the heart of the World Conference.
More than 1,500 participants are attending the event coming from universities, governments, multilateral agencies, the private sector, and civil society to share their experiences and ideas to draw a joint global roadmap for the coming decade.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, the Spanish Minister of Universities, Joan Subirats, the President of the Generalitat of Catalonia, Pere Aragonès, and the Mayor of Barcelona, Ada Colau, opened the Conference.
• Democratizing access
Disparities persist despite a remarkable 200% increase in enrolment in 20 years in sub-Saharan Africa, Central Asia, and South and South-East Asia. As a result, between 40% and 50% of an age group are enrolled in higher education in East and South-East Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. In Central and South Asia, however, only 25% are registered. And the figure drops to 9% for sub-Saharan Africa.
Expanding access to education is necessary, but it has significant logistical and budgetary implications for governments, particularly developing countries. There has been a trend toward increasing tuition fees and other indirect costs in many places, burdening the finances of students and their families.
• Increasing student mobility
Six million of the global student population are studying abroad, and this number will rise to 8 million by 2025. But international frameworks are needed to support mobility, an academic asset for students and a boost to knowledge sharing and mutual understanding.
At the Barcelona Conference, UNESCO will call on its Member States to pursue ratification of the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education, the first UN treaty to strengthen inter-university cooperation and cross-border academic research. Fourteen states have already ratified the text, and only seven more signatures are needed to enter it into force.
• Learning from the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic challenged higher education systems resulting in learning losses and increased inequalities. However, it has also shown that higher education systems with significant public funding are more resilient in the face of a global crisis and better able to ensure continuity of provision and inclusion of the most important number of students. The Conference will draw lessons from the past two years to design more robust and resilient systems.
To develop the roadmap for higher education to 2030, the Conference will focus on the following themes: (1) Impact of COVID-19 on Higher Education; (2) Higher Education and the Sustainable Development Goals; (3) Inclusion; (4) Quality and Relevance of Programmes; (5) Academic Mobility; (6) Governance; (7) Financing; (8) Data and Knowledge Production; (9) International Cooperation and (10) The Futures of Higher Education.
The International Council for Science (ICS) and the International Association of Universities (IAU) are among the conference partners, as well as the Global Universities Network for Innovation (GUNI/ACUP) and the Catalan Association of Public Universities.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The Editor is a UNESCO IIEP (International Institute for Educational Planning, Paris) trained “Independent Appraiser” of Education Sector Plans.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:27 AM | View the original post
May 18, 2022
French actor Vincent Lindon is the President of the Jury of the 75th Festival de Cannes.
75th Festival de Cannes Jury members.
Photo: 75th Festival de Cannes Jury member, Deepika Padukone. Source: Instagram.
Cannes, France, May 18, 2022 — French actor Vincent Lindon will be the 75th Festival de Cannes Jury president. Together with eight jury members, the actor who won Best Actor in 2015 will present the Palme d’Or to one of the 21 films in competition on Saturday, May 28, during the closing ceremony, to be broadcast live by France Télévisions and Brut.
• The Jury
Vincent Lindon - President
Actor
France
Rebecca Hall
Actress, producer, screenwriter, director
United Kingdom / United States
Deepika Padukone
Actress, producer
India
Noomi Rapace
Actress
Sweden
Jasmine Trinca
Actress, director
Italy
Asghar Farhadi
Director, producer, screenwriter
Iran
Ladj Ly
Director, screenwriter, actor, producer
France
Jeff Nichols
Director, screenwriter
United States
Joachim Trier
Director, screenwriter
Norway
Source: Cannes Film Festival
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Revivez l'annonce des membres du Jury par Virginie Efira ! #Cannes2022
— Festival de Cannes (@Festival_Cannes) May 17, 2022
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Watch Virginie Efira introducing the Jury members of the 75th Festival de Cannes ! pic.twitter.com/v4BE82w2Ti
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:58 AM | View the original post
May 15, 2022
U.S. Postal Service honors Illustrator Shel Silverstein and Cartoonist Charles M. Schulz
WASHINGTON, May 14, 2022 — The U.S. Postal Service has announced several new stamps.
The Shel Silverstein Forever stamp — featuring artwork from one of his most famous books, “The Giving Tree” — was dedicated at Darwin Elementary, one of the schools he attended as a child.
The extraordinarily versatile Silverstein (1930-1999) was one of the 20th century’s most imaginative authors and illustrators.
Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree,” published in 1964 by Harper & Row, is about a friendship between a motherly tree and a boy. As the child grows older, the tree gives him its shade, apples, branches, and trunk. The story ends with the boy returning as a grown-up man to rest against the tree’s stump. The bestselling tale of selflessness, accompanied by the author’s elegantly simple black-and-white illustrations, is considered a classic of children’s literature.
Other new stamps salute the centennial of cartoonist Charles M. Schulz (1922-2000), whose “Peanuts” characters are some of the best known and most beloved in all of American culture. Schulz alone wrote and drew nearly 18,000 strips for five decades. Each character reflects Schulz’s rich imagination and great humanity.
In a celebratory mode, characters from “Peanuts” adorn ten designs on this pane of 20 stamps and form a frame around a 1987 photograph of Schulz.
Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamps from Schulz’s artwork and an existing photograph by Douglas Kirkland.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:13 AM | View the original post
May 14, 2022
Camila Cabello to headline Show-Stopping UEFA Champions Final Opening Ceremony Presented by Pepsi
- Grammy Award-Nominated, Multi-Platinum, and Chart-Topping Singer/Songwriter will take to Pepsi Stage live in Paris on May 28 ahead of the World’s most watched Annual Sporting Event.
NEW YORK, May 14, 2022 — UEFA and Pepsi have revealed that GRAMMY Award-nominated, multi-platinum, and chart-topping singer/songwriter Camila Cabello will headline this year’s UEFA Champions League Final Opening Ceremony presented by Pepsi. The Opening Ceremony will see the ‘Bam Bam’ ‘Senorita,’ and ‘Havana’ hitmaker takes center stage to kick off one of the World’s most significant sporting events and bring the energy and atmosphere of the UEFA Champions League final to millions of viewers tuning in around the World.
The 5-minute performance would be a breath-taking carnival-themed celebration, brought to life through a stunning display of costumes, dancers, and musicians, choreographed to deliver a high-energy spectacular to fans in the stadium and at home, live from the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday, May 28. The Opening Ceremony production will see her perform a medley of her chart-topping hits alongside new releases from the highly-acclaimed third studio album ‘Familia.’
Camila Cabello commented: “I’m so excited to be taking to the stage at the UEFA Champions League final in Paris this month! I intend on putting on an amazing show, bringing together the spirit of my Latin heritage and a feeling of togetherness for sports and music fans all over the World - I can’t wait!”
To announce Camila’s performance at the UEFA Champions League final, Pepsi shared a short video via its YouTube channel, showing what fans can expect in Paris. In the clip, playful animations and floral patterns surround Camila taking inspiration from the iconic Oaxaca carnival in Mexico. The vibrant colors channel the feeling of togetherness and celebrate people of all walks of life coming together, showcasing how the power of music and sport can unite people all around the World.
Pepsi’s Global Marketing Vice President, Eric Melis, said: “Pepsi has been working with UEFA to build the Opening Ceremony platform since 2016. We’re delighted to be returning to live stadium shows and bringing Camila Cabello to the stage this year. Pepsi has a long and rich heritage in entertainment. This year’s show will not disappoint as we bring Camila’s Latina spirit elements to one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.”
Each year, the Opening Ceremony sees some of the hottest music artists in the World put on an electrifying, show-stopping performance that brings enormous buzz to the UEFA Champions League final in true Pepsi style. The 2022 Opening Ceremony is no different and will be running across the international Pepsi trademark, including Pepsi, Pepsi Black / MAX, and Diet Pepsi.
UEFA marketing director Guy-Laurent Epstein commented: “We are excited to be collaborating with our long-standing partners at Pepsi for yet another highly entertaining Opening Ceremony performance at the 2022 UEFA Champions League final. These events always provide the ultimate cross-pollination of sport and music, which we know fans love to watch - and Pepsi is the perfect partner to help us do that. We know that Camila Cabello is one of the World’s most popular artists, and she will help us build on our fans’ excitement for the Opening Ceremony performance with a show football fans will never forget.”
This year’s UEFA Champions League final Opening Ceremony performance will air in over 200 countries and territories around the World, just minutes before the biggest game in European club football gets underway.
Source: PepsiCo
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:48 AM | View the original post
May 10, 2022
Movie celebrities from across India to walk Red Carpet along with Shri Anurag Thakur at Cannes.
• A.R. Rahman, Shekhar Kapur, Akshay Kumar, and Ricky Kej are among the celebs on Red Carpet
Photo: The Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, announcing that India will be the official Country of Honour at the upcoming Marche’ Du Film, organized alongside the 75th edition of Cannes Film Festival in France, in New Delhi.
New Delhi, May 10, 2022 — Red Carpet Event at the 75th Cannes Film Festival is going to be a gala event for the Indian audience as celebrities from the cine world across India are set to walk the Red Carpet as part of the Indian delegation on the opening day of Cannes Film Festival 2022 on May 17, 2022.
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Anurag Thakur will lead the delegation from India to Cannes. The list of celebrities comprises stars from the film and music industries across India. The panel will contain the following celebrities:
- Mr. Akshay Kumar (Actor and Producer, Bollywood)
- Mr. A. R. Rahman (International Music Composer)
- Mr. Mame Khan (Folk Music Composer, Singer)
- Mr. Nawazuddin Siddiqui (Actor, Bollywood)
- Ms. Nayanthara (Actress, Malayalam, Tamil)
- Ms. Pooja Hegde (Actress, Hindi, Telugu)
- Mr. Prasoon Joshi (Chairman, CBFC)
- Mr. R. Madhavan (Actor & Producer), World Premier of Rocketry at Cannes
- Mr. Ricky Kej (Music Composer)
- Mr. Shekhar Kapur (Filmmaker)
- Ms. Tamannaah Bhatia (Actress, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil Films)
- Ms. Vani Tripathi (Actor)
This year, the intent is to showcase the rich flavor and diversity of India - culture, heritage, legacy, and developments through its cinema. The Ministry has hand-picked the delegation from across the length and breadth of the country to represent different strengths and aspects of the nation.
Notably, India is the Official Country of Honour at Cannes Film Market (Marché du Film) in this edition of the festival. It is the first time this honor has been bestowed on any country and comes when India celebrates its Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. In addition, India and France are also celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations this year.
Source: Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Get ready for the extravaganza when the star-studded Indian delegation, led by Union Minister @ianuragthakur, walks the Red Carpet at #CannesFilmFestival.#IndiaAtCannes @ActorMadhavan @NawazuddinS @arrahman @rickykej @tamannaahspeaks @shekharkapur @prasoonjoshi @vanityparty pic.twitter.com/SNQevN0jEq
— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) May 16, 2022
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:53 AM | View the original post
May 5, 2022
India Art Fair 2022 closes.
New Delhi, May 4, 2022 — The 2022 edition of the India Art Fair, the leading platform to discover and celebrate modern and contemporary art from South Asia, closed on May 1 amid reports of robust sales. The fair offered a strong contingent of 77 exhibitors, including 63 galleries and 14 institutional participants from 16 cities in India.
The fair featured over 500 modern and contemporary artists.
Jaya Asokan, Fair Director of India Art Fair, commented: “As the first fair that I oversaw, I am immensely proud of the team and our artists, galleries, and partners for working so seamlessly together and pushing the boundaries of the region’s artistic language. The upbeat energy at the fair has demonstrated that audiences here are ready to dive back in and experience art in person again, a true embodiment of the strength and resilience of the region’s art scene.”
Leading art-lovers across the cultural landscapes of India and the South Asia region attended the fair to explore and experience the diverse line-up of leading exhibitors and curated programs.
Source: India Art Fair
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:32 AM | View the original post
April 27, 2022
The Times Higher Education (THE) publishes its SDG Impact Rankings 2022; Lovely, Shoolini, and Chitkara lead in India.
London, April 27, 2022 — The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings are the global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). THE says it uses carefully calibrated indicators to provide comprehensive and balanced comparison across four broad areas:
- Research
- Stewardship
- Outreach, and
- Teaching
The 2022 Impact Rankings is the fourth edition, and the overall ranking includes 1,406 universities from 106 countries/regions.
An Australian institution, Western Sydney University, leads the overall ranking.
In second place is the US’s Arizona State University, and third is Western University from Canada.
No one country dominates the top 10, with universities from the UK, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Japan also featuring.
The top institutions from an emerging economy are King Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia and Universiti Sains Malaysia, in joint fourth place.
According to THE, the Impact Rankings are inherently dynamic: they are overgrowing each year as many more universities seek to demonstrate their commitment to delivering the SDGs by joining the ‘THE’ database. These rankings allow institutions to show rapid improvement year on year by introducing clear new policies or providing more transparent and open evidence of their progress.
• Following universities from India appear in the top 300
(India Rank) — ‘THE’ Global Rank — University
(1) 41 - Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amritanagar, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, 641112, India)
(2) =74 - Lovely Professional University (Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India)
(3) 101-200 - Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences (Solan-Oachghat-Kumarhatti Highway, Bajhol, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India)
(4) 201-300 - Amity University, Gurugram (India Amity Education Valley, Gurugram, Haryana, 122 413, India)
(5) 201-300 - University of Calcutta (India Senate House, College Street, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700073, India)
(6) 201-300 - Chitkara University (Patiala National Highway NH-64, Chandigarh, Punjab, 140401, India)
Source: Times Higher Education
|GlobalGiants.Com|
In sub-category 'Decent Work and Economic Growth', CU has been awarded Global Rank 14 th. Congratulations to CU authorities, faculties, researchers, students. (2/2)
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) April 28, 2022
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:56 PM | View the original post
April 26, 2022
MasterClass Announces Mariah Carey to Teach the Voice as an Instrument
Opens the doors to the Butterfly Lounge, letting cameras into her creative and music-making process for the first time
Shares the never-before-heard reimagined version of “The Roof” with award-winning artist Brandy
Photo: Mariah Carey for MasterClass.
SAN FRANCISCO, April 26, 2022 — MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world’s best across a wide range of subjects, has announced that Mariah Carey will teach a class on how to use the voice as an instrument. For the first time, Carey will bring members into the Butterfly Lounge, her mobile studio, to show how they can use their voices to sing and write and produce melodies, lyrics, and instrumentation that blend genres and break barriers. In addition, members will be the first to hear the reimagined version of “The Roof” with award-winning artist Brandy and see Carey in action as she directs Brandy on background vocals. Carey’s class is now available exclusively on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 150+ instructors with an annual membership.
“Mariah is simply a genius. She’s one of the greatest artists of all time,” said David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass. “In her class, Mariah is opening up her studio for the first time, teaching members how to use their voice throughout the music-making process.”
In her class, Carey reveals how the voice can be used as an instrument and how it can be an extension of the pen as a writer, making it possible for anyone to be a music producer. Carey will provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at her music-making process by communicating melodies to a string ensemble to turn personal stories into iconic soundtracks. Taking members into the Butterfly Lounge as she works on a reimagined version of her beloved hit “The Roof” with award-winning artist Brandy, Carey will examine the importance of background vocals in making music and how to build a song with a choir of voices versus a wall of sound. Carey will teach members how to use their personal experiences as inspiration for writing music and telling a story. Sharing how Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Part II” inspired her writing on “The Roof,” she will show members how to listen beyond genres and use samples as building blocks. Carey will also reflect on the challenges she faced in the music industry and provide tips for navigating the industry and maintaining creative control. Members will leave the class inspired to find their voice, whether advocating for their creative desires or honing it as an instrument.
“I’ve never let cameras in when I create—not when I’m writing, especially not when singing,” Carey said. “But now I’m taking MasterClass members into my studio to show them how they can write and produce music using their voice and become anything they want to be as long as they create, re-create, reimagine and reinvent.”
Lessons in this online class include:
- Producing With Your Voice
- Lyricism: Write About the Realness
- Writing With Samples
- Background Vocals, Part 1
- Background Vocals, Part 2
- Instrumentation and Emotion
- Taking Care of Your Voice
- Surviving in the Music Industry
Mariah Carey is an American singer, songwriter, actress, record producer, entrepreneur, and pop icon. Known for her five-octave vocal range, melismatic singing style, and signature use of the whistle register, she has been referred to as the “Songbird Supreme.” Holding the record for the most No. 1 singles and most certified albums by any solo artist or female artist, Carey has received Billboard’s Artist of the Decade (the 1990s). She also received the Icons Award, the World Music Awards’ Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium, and holds three Guinness World Records. She is a five-time Grammy Award-winning singer with 19 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles and more than 200 million records sold, making her the best-selling female artist. Her songs shatter records, her love of music blends genres, and her penmanship and producing ability have earned her a spot in the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The MasterClass is the streaming platform where the world’s best come together, so anyone can access and be inspired by their knowledge and stories. With an annual membership, members get unprecedented access to 150+ instructors and classes across various fields, including Arts & Entertainment, Business, Design & Style, Sports & Gaming, Writing, and more.
Source: MasterClass
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Mariah Carey to teach the Voice as an Instrument | MasterClass
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:15 AM | View the original post
April 21, 2022
Call for Nominations for the 2023 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards
Paris, April 21, 2022 — UNESCO and the Fondation L’Oréal have invited scientists worldwide to nominate candidates for the 2023 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science (FWIS) International Awards.
The 2023 edition of the FWIS International Awards will designate five outstanding scientific women researchers in Physical sciences, Mathematics, and Computer science. Each of the five Laureates will receive an award of €100,000 for her contribution to scientific research at a ceremony in Paris in March 2023.
Nominations must be submitted through the dedicated online platform by Tuesday, May 31, 2022.
Source: L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:32 AM | View the original post
International Jazz Day 2022, a Call for Global Peace and Unity
Flagship All-Star Jazz Day Concert to be hosted at UN in New York on April 30
Photos: International Jazz Day 2022 Posters.
Paris, April 20, 2022 — UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock announced the program for the 2022 celebration of International Jazz Day, April 30, with more events taking place in more than 180 countries.
The flagship Jazz Day event, a spectacular All-Star Global Concert, will be staged in the UN General Assembly Hall in New York, emphasizing the importance of jazz to achieve unity and peace through dialogue and diplomacy. It will feature performances by some of the world’s most accomplished jazz artists.
The concert will be webcast worldwide (April 30, 11 pm CET) on the UNESCO website, YouTube, Facebook, jazzday.com, UN Web TV, and US State Department outlets.
“Jazz carries a universal message with the power to strengthen dialogue, our understanding of each other, and our mutual respect. As the world is affected by multiple crises and conflicts, this international day highlights how much music and culture can contribute to peace,” Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, said.
“With conflict and division in many parts of the world, I hope that, through the universal language of jazz, our celebration this year can inspire people of all nations to heal, hope, and work together to foster peace,” said Jazz Institute Chairman Herbie Hancock. Herbie Hancock co-chairs International Jazz Day with the Director-General of UNESCO.
• Masterclasses, concerts, educational and other programs worldwide
Earlier in the evening of April 30 (9 pm CET), UNESCO will celebrate the musical talent of women from across Africa with the second edition of its JazzWomenAfrica concert series. Organized in collaboration with the cultural agency ANYA Music (Morocco), JazzWomenAfrica helps counter the under-representation and insufficient recognition of women in the music industry. A discussion with women artists and music producers on this theme will take place on April 29 (5 pm CET).
World-renowned jazz artists, including multiple Grammy Awards winners Arturo O’Farrill, Terri Lyne Carrington, Oran Etkin, Danny Grissett, Dan Tepfer, and others, will lead master classes and presentations.
Stakeholders across the UNESCO Creative Cities Network around the globe will organize their celebrations throughout International Jazz Day.
Established by UNESCO in 2011 at the initiative of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock and recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day brings together countries and communities worldwide every April 30.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:32 AM | View the original post
April 19, 2022
Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, meets IMF Managing Director Ms. Kristalina Georgieva in Washington D.C.
Photo: A woman heads towards the metro station at Connaught Place in New Delhi, India, on March 29, 2022. Women make up 19 percent of the workforce in India, down from approximately 30 percent in 1990, as per a World Bank report. Image provided by & copyright © IMF Photo/Saumya Khandelwal.
Washington, April 19, 2022 — India’s Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, had a bilateral meeting with Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director, International Monetary Fund (IMF), on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund-World Bank (IMF-WB) Spring Meetings in Washington D.C. today.
Both the Finance Minister and the Managing Director were accompanied by senior officials like Mr. Anantha V. Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, and Ms. Gita Gopinath, FDMD of IMF.
During the meeting, they discussed issues of importance for India besides several topics currently being faced by the global and the regional economies.
Ms. Georgieva highlighted the resilience of India, which remains the fastest-growing country across the globe despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Georgieva also referred to a well-targeted policy mix followed by India. She lauded India for its contribution to the capacity development activities of the IMF.
Ms. Georgieva praised India’s vaccination program and extended help to its neighbor and other vulnerable economies. In addition, the IMF MD referred India’s resources to Sri Lanka during their complex economic crisis. Ms. Sitharaman indicated that IMF should support and urgently provide financial assistance to Sri Lanka. The Managing Director assured the Finance Minister that the IMF would continue to engage with Sri Lanka actively.
Discussing the recent geopolitical developments, Ms. Sitharaman and Ms. Georgieva raised concerns about its impact on the global economy and the challenges linked to the rising energy prices.
Explaining India’s policy approach, Ms. Sitharaman mentioned that an accommodative fiscal stance accompanied significant structural reforms, including the bankruptcy code and targeted help to vulnerable sections.
Ms. Sitharaman said that Monetary Authority fully supported and complemented these efforts with an accommodative stance.
The Finance Minister further stated that India had a sound agricultural output, supported by a good monsoon during the COVID pandemic. As a result, agricultural exports and other exports have also sharply increased. She concluded that India is entering into new economic activities to help resolve some of the global supply chain issues.
Source: Ministry of Finance, Government of India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:36 PM | View the original post
April 7, 2022
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) is back with the second edition of the Couture Hall of Fame.
• The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) honors Anamika Khanna, JJ Valaya, Manish Malhotra, Asha Kochhar, and Vidyun Singh for their contribution by inducting them into the Couture Hall of Fame.
Photo: A glimpse of the FDCI Designer Stockroom, which received an overwhelming response. Image Credit: FDCI.
New Delhi, April 6, 2022 — The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) Couture Hall of Fame awards featured a glittering ceremony at the Taj Mahal hotel.
It was an evening of glamour as the leading lights of haute couture, known for elevating Indian crafts with laborious techniques, were given a much-awaited ovation.
Anamika Khanna, acclaimed for her timeless, detailed pieces, was among those who won excellence in nurturing the design language.
JJ Valaya, the czar of embroideries, who adds his magical touch with a royal edge, was given the trophy by Indian economist and civil servant Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia.
Bollywood’s favorite designer, Manish Malhotra, was elated to receive the honor from Managing Editor (Lifestyle), Hindustan Times, Ms. Sonal Kalra.
Neeti Aayog CEO, Mr. Amitabh Kant, felicitated Media Makers Asha Kochhar & Vidyun Singh for their contribution to the Indian fashion universe.
The beauty of the evening was the soul-stirring music by Taufiq Qureshi, who performed on the stage and kept the well-heeled audience mesmerized by his rhythm. Sahil Vasudeva played on the piano, keeping the night engaging during a seven-course meal, while Violinist Madina Abaeva enthralled the guests with her tunes.
The master of ceremonies of the evening, Rajiv Makhni, kept the audience in good humor with his witty introductions.
Those present at the prestigious award function were guests of the awardees at their reserved tables. The other attendees included FDCI’s present and former Board members and erstwhile couturiers who have been part of the Couture Week journey.
“The FDCI has always believed in awarding those whose contribution to the Indian design space has been exemplary. Their dialogue with textures, movement, fabrics, and craftsmanship over the years shows their innate ability to create passionately. Therefore, the FDCI and the Board of Governors have honored this evening,” Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India, concluded.
Source: Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI)
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:13 AM | View the original post
April 1, 2022
UNESCO awards India the "Certificate of Inscription of Durga Puja in Kolkata to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity"
Photos: Paris, France. The UNESCO Director-General handed over the “Certificate of inscription of Durga Puja in Kolkata to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage” to the Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO. Images provided by & Copyright © UNESCO/Lily CHAVANCE.
Paris, March 31, 2021 — UNESCO presented India the Certificate of inscription of “Durga Puja in Kolkata” to the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
Earlier, the Intergovernmental Committee of UNESCO’s Convention on Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during its 16th session in Paris, France, from 13th to 18th December 2021.
Durga Puja celebrates feminine divinity and a consummate expression of dance, music, crafts, rituals, practices, culinary and cultural aspects. The festival transcends the boundaries of caste, creed, and economic classes and joins the people together in its celebration.
India is a signatory of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for Safeguarding the Intangible Heritage and traditions and living expression. Intangible cultural heritage means the practices, representations, words, knowledge, skills, instruments, objects, artifacts, and cultural spaces that communities and groups recognize as a part of their cultural inheritance.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:11 AM | View the original post
March 31, 2022
Automated Study Tool wins Best Idea at Innovation for University Students.
Photo: Arizona State University students Sylvia Lopez and Brinlee Kidd were named Red Bull Basement Global Final winners.
ISTANBUL, March 30, 2022 — Inspiration was in the air as finalist teams from universities worldwide converged in Istanbul to pitch their ingenious ideas at the Red Bull Basement Global climax Final 2021.
The program empowers student innovators to kickstart their ideas to drive a positive impact on campus and disrupt the world tomorrow. While the Arizona State University team made the biggest impression with their “Jotted” idea, the four-day collaboration revealed ingenious concepts for everything from climate action to career tools.
Red Bull Basement received more than 4,000 applications worldwide. It was a new high, and in all, 44 finalist teams from 43 countries worked for months to bring their ideas to life. The vast majority of the finalists attended the Global Final in person, with a handful participating virtually.
The event in Istanbul was an immersive experience that allowed the student teams to network and engage in workshops with visionary thought leaders. The sessions in the schedule packed with opportunities included:
Keynote speech and a Q&A session featuring Kudzi Chikumbu. Chikumbu is a community leader and a creator at one of the world’s most comprehensive entertainment short-form video platforms.
Workshop on digital storytelling and social media with SuperSocial founder Mathias Haas
Surprise parkour and freerunning workshop with inspirational Turkish athlete Hazal Nehir, who sees her sport as a tool for self-recognition (see the video below)
The event concluded with the top 10 teams making their final pitch to a judging panel of prominent global visionaries. Again, the winning Jotted idea from Arizona State University made a deep impression. Brinlee Kidd and Sylvia Lopez are developing an automated, real-time note-taking tool that generates flashcards and creates practice quizzes. The students believe that Jotted could revolutionize how people find and aggregate knowledge worldwide. The team will now benefit from additional resources and contacts to fully bring their idea to reality.
Describing their experience at the Global Final, the Jotted teammates said, “Everybody wins when you come here. The people we’ve met are some of the best and brightest in the world - so exciting and interesting and active. With the things that we learned, from the business point of view and the technical perspective, we feel much more confident moving forward in our venture. We’re turning a new page in an incredible book, and we’re excited to go on this journey.”
Rounding out the top 10 were:
Circle One (IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems), a reusable packaging solution for online retail orders;
Digital X-Ray Glasses (University of Johannesburg), eyeglasses that perform and transmit x-ray scans;
H2Whoah (University of Manitoba), a consumer app that monitors water usage;
NCMS (Mie University), a new take on noise-canceling headphones;
OpenGrid (University of Melbourne), a platform that would enable households using solar power to sell their excess energy to other homes;
Smart Capacit System (Hotelschool The Hague), an energy-saving scheduling system for digital devices;
Starry Light Tiles (Loughborough University), walkway tiles that light up pedestrian pathways when stepped upon;
Vego (University of A Coruña), an app that helps users transition to a vegan lifestyle;
“Wrest,” an intelligent mousepad designed to help users avert repetitive motion injuries by the Faculty of Medicine at Charles University.
Most ideas focused on categories based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The top three focus areas were Education, Smart Cities, and Body & Mind.
Following events in Berlin (2018) and Toronto (2019) and a virtual Global Workshop in 2020, the Red Bull Basement Global Final in Istanbul was much awaited.
Over the years, Red Bull Basement participants have gone on to realize their ideas for global impact. For example, the winning team from 2019, “Audvice,” has made significant strides, receiving six-figure funding for their learning and collaboration tool in the first investment round. While the 2020 winners Lylo are now working to bring their ecologically friendly reinvention of the clothes washing machine to market.
Red Bull Basement’s Global Partners include NTT, Intel, and Porsche.
Source: Red Bull
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Parkour with Hazal Nehir
Parkour is an athletic training discipline where practitioners attempt to get from point A to point B in the most fluid, fastest, and most efficient way without any assisting equipment.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:11 AM | View the original post
March 30, 2022
UNESCO and Anthology partner to Define the Future of Education at the 2022 World Higher Education Conference.
Photo: Trade Buildings. Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona is the venue of the World Higher Education Conference (WHEC2022) from May 18 to May 20, 2022. Image Credit: Josep Maria Torra.
BOCA RATON, Fla. and PARIS, March 28, 2022— Anthology, a leading provider of education solutions that support the entire learner lifecycle, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have announced Anthology’s sponsorship for the World Higher Education Conference (WHEC2022). The conference takes place in Barcelona, Spain, from March 18, 2022, to March 20, 2022.
UNESCO and Blackboard, now part of Anthology, initially formed a partnership to support global digital learning initiatives in 2020. This flagship higher education event, held only once each decade, marks the organizations’ continued collaboration to help define the future of higher education.
The UNESCO World Higher Education Conference aims to break away from traditional models of higher education and open doors to new, innovative, creative, and visionary conceptions that serve current agendas for sustainable development and pave the way for future learning communities. The WHEC2022 will gather representatives from the worldwide higher education ecosystem, from academics to political leaders and youth, to reshape the ideas and practices in higher education for a more sustainable future. More than 2,000 in-person attendees and 10,000 virtual attendees would convene for this year’s event.
“We are honored to participate in such a momentous event and have a voice in the global conversation about the future of higher education,” said Jim Milton, Anthology Chairman and CEO. “There is an incredible synergy between the work UNESCO is leading and our vision of creating an inspiring and infinite world of learning without boundaries. We look forward to our continued partnership as we seek the best outcomes for learners and leaders across the education community.”
“The third World Higher Education Conference will concentrate on higher education as an agent of social change to contribute to leaving no one behind in higher ed,” said Mr. Peter Wells, UNESCO Chief of Higher Education. “Anthology’s dedication to supporting the entire learning lifecycle for students of all backgrounds makes them an excellent partner for UNESCO, both for this event and future.”
“Anthology” offers the largest EdTech ecosystem globally for education, recently combining with Blackboard to support more than 150 million users in 80 countries. With a mission to provide dynamic, data-informed experiences to the global education community, Anthology helps learners, leaders, and educators achieve their goals through over 60 SaaS products and services designed to advance learning.
UNESCO is the only United Nations agency with a mandate to cover all aspects of education. The organization believes that education is a human right and that access must match quality. Its work encompasses educational development from pre-school to higher education and beyond.
Source: Anthology
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The Editor is a GPE/UNESCO/IIEP trained “Independent Appraiser” of Education Sector Plans.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:20 PM | View the original post
March 28, 2022
Academy announces Oscars 2022 Winners.
Photo: Jennifer Garner arrives on the red carpet of the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Image Credit: Michael Baker / © A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Jake Gyllenhaal arrives on the red carpet of the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Image Credit: Michael Baker / © A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Maddie Ziegler arrives on the red carpet of the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Image Credit: Michael Baker / © A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Ben Proudfoot poses backstage with the Oscar for Documentary Short Subject during the live A.B.C. telecast of the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Image Credit: Michael Baker / © A.M.P.A.S.
LOS ANGELES, CA, March 27. 2022 — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the Oscar Winners on Sunday, March 27, 2022, via an event held at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland in Hollywood. The pageant was televised live on A.B.C. and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
• Following are the Nominees and WINNERS of the 94th Academy Awards:
• Performance by an actor in a leading role
- Javier Bardem in “Being the Ricardos”
- Benedict Cumberbatch in “The Power of the Dog”
- Andrew Garfield in “tick, tick…BOOM!”
- Will Smith in “King Richard” — WINNER
- Denzel Washington in “The Tragedy of Macbeth”
• Performance by an actor in a supporting role
- Ciarán Hinds in “Belfast”
- Troy Kotsur in “CODA” — WINNER
- Jesse Plemons in “The Power of the Dog”
- J.K. Simmons in “Being the Ricardos”
- Kodi Smit-McPhee in “The Power of the Dog”
• Performance by an actress in a leading role
- Jessica Chastain in “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” — WINNER
- Olivia Colman in “The Lost Daughter”
- Penélope Cruz in “Parallel Mothers”
- Nicole Kidman in “Being the Ricardos”
- Kristen Stewart in “Spencer”
• Performance by an actress in a supporting role
- Jessie Buckley in “The Lost Daughter”
- Ariana DeBose in “West Side Story” — WINNER
- Judi Dench in “Belfast”
- Kirsten Dunst in “The Power of the Dog”
- Aunjanue Ellis in “King Richard”
• Best animated feature film of the year
- “Encanto” Jared Bush, Byron Howard, Yvett Merino and Clark Spencer — WINNER
- “Flee” Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie
- “Luca” Enrico Casarosa and Andrea Warren
- “The Mitchells vs. the Machines” Mike Rianda, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Kurt Albrecht
- “Raya and the Last Dragon” Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada, Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho
• Achievement in cinematography
- “Dune” Greig Fraser — WINNER
- “Nightmare Alley” Dan Laustsen
- “The Power of the Dog” Ari Wegner
- “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Bruno Delbonnel
- “West Side Story” Janusz Kaminski
• Achievement in costume design
- “Cruella” Jenny Beavan — WINNER
- “Cyrano” Massimo Cantini Parrini and Jacqueline Durran
- “Dune” Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan
- “Nightmare Alley” Luis Sequeira
- “West Side Story” Paul Tazewell
• Achievement in directing
- “Belfast” Kenneth Branagh
- “Drive My Car” Ryusuke Hamaguchi
- “Licorice Pizza” Paul Thomas Anderson
- “The Power of the Dog” Jane Campion — WINNER
- “West Side Story” Steven Spielberg
• Best documentary feature
- “Ascension” Jessica Kingdon, Kira Simon-Kennedy, and Nathan Truesdell
- “Attica” Stanley Nelson and Traci A. Curry
- “Flee” Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie
- “Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Joseph Patel, Robert Fyvolent and David Dinerstein — WINNER
- “Writing with Fire” Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh
• Best documentary short subject
- “Audible” Matt Ogens and Geoff McLean
- “Lead Me Home” Pedro Kos and Jon Shenk
- “The Queen of Basketball” Ben Proudfoot — WINNER
- “Three Songs for Benazir” Elizabeth Mirzaei and Gulistan Mirzaei
- “When We Were Bullies” Jay Rosenblatt
• Achievement in film editing
- “Don’t Look Up” Hank Corwin
- “Dune” Joe Walker — WINNER
- “King Richard” Pamela Martin
- “The Power of the Dog” Peter Sciberras
- “tick, tick…BOOM!” Myron Kerstein and Andrew Weisblum
• Best international feature film of the year
- “Drive My Car” Japan — WINNER
- “Flee” Denmark
- “The Hand of God” Italy
- “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom” Bhutan
- “The Worst Person in the World” Norway
• Achievement in makeup and hairstyling
- ” Coming 2 America” Mike Marino, Stacey Morris, and Carla Farmer
- “Cruella” Nadia Stacey, Naomi Donne, and Julia Vernon
- “Dune” Donald Mowat, Love Larson, and Eva von Bahr
- “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” Linda Dowds, Stephanie Ingram, and Justin Raleigh — WINNER
- “House of Gucci” Göran Lundström, Anna Carin Lock and Frederic Aspiras
• Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
- “Don’t Look Up” Nicholas Britell
- “Dune” Hans Zimmer — WINNER
- “Encanto” Germaine Franco
- “Parallel Mothers” Alberto Iglesias
- “The Power of the Dog” Jonny Greenwood
• Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song)
- “Be Alive” from “King Richard”
- Music and Lyric by D.I.X.S.O.N. and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter
- “Dos Oruguitas” from “Encanto”
- Music and Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda
- “Down To Joy” from “Belfast”
- Music and Lyric by Van Morrison
- “No Time To Die” from “No Time to Die” — WINNER
- Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell
- “Somehow You Do” from “Four Good Days”
- Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
• Best motion picture of the year
- “Belfast” Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik and Tamar Thomas, Producers
- “CODA” Philippe Rousselet, Fabrice Gianfermi and Patrick Wachsberger, Producers — WINNER
- “Don’t Look Up” Adam McKay and Kevin Messick, Producers
- “Drive My Car” Teruhisa Yamamoto, Producer
- “Dune” Mary Parent, Denis Villeneuve, and Cale Boyter, Producers
- “King Richard” Tim White, Trevor White, and Will Smith, Producers
- “Licorice Pizza” Sara Murphy, Adam Somner, and Paul Thomas Anderson, Producers
- “Nightmare Alley” Guillermo del Toro, J. Miles Dale, and Bradley Cooper, Producers
- “The Power of the Dog” Jane Campion, Tanya Seghatchian, Emile Sherman, Iain Canning, and Roger Frappier, Producers
- “West Side Story” Steven Spielberg and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
• Achievement in production design
- “Dune” Production Design: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Zsuzsanna Sipos — WINNER
- “Nightmare Alley” Production Design: Tamara Deverell; Set Decoration: Shane Vieau
- “The Power of the Dog” Production Design: Grant Major; Set Decoration: Amber Richards
- “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Production Design: Stefan Dechant; Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh
- “West Side Story” Production Design: Adam Stockhausen; Set Decoration: Rena DeAngelo
• Best animated short film
- “Affairs of the Art” Joanna Quinn and Les Mills
- “Bestia” Hugo Covarrubias and Tevo DÃaz
- “Boxballet” Anton Dyakov
- “Robin Robin” Dan Ojari and Mikey Please
- “The Windshield Wiper” Alberto Mielgo and Leo Sanchez — WINNER
• Best live-action short film
- “Ala Kachuu - Take and Run” Maria Brendle and Nadine Lüchinger
- “The Dress” Tadeusz Åysiak and Maciej Åšlesicki
- “The Long Goodbye” Aneil Karia and Riz Ahmed — WINNER
- “On My Mind” Martin Strange-Hansen and Kim Magnusson
- “Please Hold” K.D. Dávila and Levin Menekse
• Achievement in sound
- “Belfast” Denise Yarde, Simon Chase, James Mather, and Niv Adiri
- “Dune” Mac Ruth, Mark Mangini, Theo Green, Doug Hemphill, and Ron Bartlett — WINNER
- “No Time to Die” Simon Hayes, Oliver Tarney, James Harrison, Paul Massey, and Mark Taylor
- “The Power of the Dog” Richard Flynn, Robert Mackenzie, and Tara Webb
- “West Side Story” Tod A. Maitland, Gary Rydstrom, Brian Chumney, Andy Nelson, and Shawn Murphy
• Achievement in visual effects
- “Dune” Paul Lambert, Tristan Myles, Brian Connor, and Gerd Nefzer — WINNER
- “Free Guy” Swen Gillberg, Bryan Grill, Nikos Kalaitzidis and Dan Sudick
- “No Time to Die” Charlie Noble, Joel Green, Jonathan Fawkner, and Chris Corbould
- “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” Christopher Townsend, Joe Farrell, Sean Noel Walker, and Dan Oliver
- “Spider-Man: No Way Home” Kelly Port, Chris Waegner, Scott Edelstein and Dan Sudick
• Adapted screenplay
- “CODA” Screenplay by Siân Heder — WINNER
- “Drive My Car” Screenplay by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Takamasa Oe
- “Dune” Screenplay by Jon Spaihts and Denis Villeneuve, and Eric Roth
- “The Lost Daughter” Written by Maggie Gyllenhaal
- “The Power of the Dog” Written by Jane Campion
• Original screenplay
- “Belfast” Written by Kenneth Branagh — WINNER
- “Don’t Look Up” Screenplay by Adam McKay; Story by Adam McKay & David Sirota
- “King Richard” Written by Zach Baylin
- “Licorice Pizza” Written by Paul Thomas Anderson
- “The Worst Person in the World” Written by Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:37 AM | View the original post
March 24, 2022
Lakmé Fashion Week and Fashion Design Council of India announce Designers And Partners for the New Delhi Show, March 23 to 27, 2022
Photo: Masoom Minawala as the show stopper for Lakme Salon and Varun Bahl Couture presentation “QUINTESSENTIAL” at FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week, New Delhi, March 23, 2022. Image Credit: FDCIxLFW.
The line-up begins with the Opening Show jointly presented by the FDCI and Lakmé Fashion Week on March 22 and culminates with the Lakmé Absolute Grand Finale on the 27th.
Celebrated designers from across the country form part of the schedule with marquee showcases by Pankaj & Nidhi, Samant Chauhan, Ranna Gill, Vaishali S, Reynu Taandon, Pawan Sachdeva, Siddartha Tytler, and Outhouse.
The Manish Malhotra brand will be launching a new category; DIFFUSE, ease to couture.
Lakmé Lumi Cream presents Alpana Neeraj #LitWithLumi.
FDCI to showcase Ashish N Soni and present a Khadi curation comprising French-Malian designer Mossi Traoré and leading Indian designers Abhishek Gupta Benares, Anavila, Anju Modi, Charu Parashar, and Rina Dhaka.
Several longstanding partners will return to the platform to collaborate with leading designers, including NEXA x Tarun Tahiliani, Bata x Suneet Varma, Lakmé Salon x Varun Bahl, TENCEL™ LUXE x JJ Valaya, boAt x HUEMN, and Natural Diamond Council x Rimzim Dadu.
New brands “realme” and John Jacobs will be partnering with ace designers Shantnu and Nikhil and Shivan & Narresh, respectively. Likewise, Adidas Originals will partner with Khanijo and Antar Agni for their showcase.
Key showcases on Sustainable Fashion Day include R|Elan™ x Satya Paul by Rajesh Pratap Singh; Bemberg™ x Payal Pratap; FDCI KHADI Show; and RISE Worldwide X Fashion For Good. Additional showcases include Innovation for Circularity - Nitin Bal Chauhan, Divyam Mehta, and Ka-Sha and the return of the coveted Circular Design Challenge - an initiative of R|Elan™ in partnership with FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week and UN in India & United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Ajio Luxe continues as the preferred partner for showcasing and sales of all the outstanding collections showcased on the ramp.
In continuation with the collaboration with NBA (National Basketball Association), the winning designer Ananya Modi Jain will be showcasing her NBA 75 collection.
“aLL” - The Plus Size Store will return to the platform to host a plus-size show. There will also be showcases by 6degree v Prestigious talent discovery programs such as INIFD GenNext, NEXA presents The Spotlight, INIFD Launchpad, FDCI x Pearl Academy FirstCut will introduce new and emerging talent.
ReshaWeaves, by ReshaMandi, will be debuting at the Showroom to present exclusive and sustainable natural fiber products.
New Delhi, March 24, 2022: After two years of digital showcases due to the pandemic, the powerhouses of fashion and beauty in India- Lakmé Fashion Week (jointly organized by Lakmé & RISE Worldwide) and the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) together are hosting a fully on-ground, season-fluid edition in New Delhi, from 23rd-27th March 2022.
The schedule comprises one of the strongest curations of designers from across India. FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week. It commences with the Opening Show on March 22 and will culminate with the Lakmé Absolute Grand Finale on March 27.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman FDCI, commented, “Energies are at an all-time high as we curate a diverse range of pathbreaking showcases and initiatives. This edition is exceptional as we make a full physical comeback after two years of adapting to the digital environment. Our audiences can expect the best designers and talent at this edition of FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week with an extremely intense and power-packed schedule.”
Participating designers at this season-fluid edition include Alpana Neeraj, Alpona Designs, Ashish N Soni, Aisha Rao, Antar-Agni, Anju Modi, Anavila, Aartivijay Gupta, Ananya Modi Jain, Abhishek Sharma, Abhishek Gupta Benares, Charu Parashar, Countrymade, Diksha Khanna, Divyam Mehta, Eshaa Amiin, HUEMN, JJ Valaya, JAJAABOR, Kiniho, Khanijo, KAVERI, Ka-Sha, Label Rahul Dasgupta, Manish Malhotra, Mossi Traoré, Mynah’s Reynu Taandon + Nikhita, Nikhita Mhaisalkar, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Nirmooha, Outhouse, Pramaa by Pratima Pandey, Payal Pratap, Pawan Sachdeva, Pankaj & Nidhi, Punit Balana, RARA Avis by Sonal Verma, Rahul Singh, Rimzim Dadu, Rina Dhaka, Rajdeep Ranawat, Ranna Gill, Satya Paul by Rajesh Pratap Singh, Suneet Varma, Samant Chauhan, Shantnu and Nikhil, Shivan & Narresh, Shriya Khanna, Swatti Kapoor, Siddhartha Bansal, Siddartha Tytler, Shruti Sancheti, Tarun Tahiliani, Two Point Two, Varun Bahl, and Vaishali S.
Source: Fashion Design Council of India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Lakmé Salon and Varun Bahl Couture present “QUINTESSENTIAL”
at FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:24 PM | View the original post
U.S. Postal Service Issues Sunflower Bouquet and Tulips Flowers Stamps
• Stamps Designed for Invitations, Oversize Cards, and Small Gifts.
Photo: U.S. Postal Service Issues Sunflower Bouquet Stamp.
Photo: U.S. Postal Service Issues 2022 Tulips Forever Stamp.
LAWRENCE, Kan. and MOUNT VERNON, Wash., March 24, 2022 — The U.S. Postal Service has issued a beautiful sunflower bouquet stamp and a Tulips Forever stamp.
U.S. Postal Service said that the sunflower stamp features five sunflowers as part of a bright and beautiful bouquet. The stamp forms a natural pair with the Tulips Forever stamp. In addition to regular correspondence, the two stamps are perfect for party invitations, thank-you notes, and important announcements.
The sunflower stamp’s art comprises a still-life image of several orange-and-yellow sunflowers intermingled with irises, dahlias, and coneflowers. In addition, the stamp shows other small red, purple, white, and pink flowers against a white background.
Long treasured for bringing cheer to a summer landscape or garden, sunflowers grow in various sizes and colors, making them popular in bouquets of cut flowers. When combined with other flowers, bouquets like the one on this stamp convey a fond announcement of friendship and love.
The Tulips Forever stamp features a colorful, eye-catching array of red, orange, yellow, purple, and white tulips against a bright white background. The result is a luminous, almost ethereal, assortment of overlapping tulips in a profusion of color.
Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamps with digital photography by Harold Davis.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:59 AM | View the original post
March 22, 2022
IQAir World Air Quality Report finds that 97 Percent of Global Cities did not meet Latest WHO Air Quality Guidelines.
Photo: Lisbon (Portugal) Landscape. Image credit: Franklin Ferreira.
GOLDACH, Switzerland, March 22, 2022 — The 2021 World Air Quality Report finds that only three percent of cities and not even one country met the latest World Health Organization’s (WHO) PM2.5 annual air quality guideline. The report analyzes PM2.5 air pollution measurements from air monitoring stations in 6,475 cities in 117 countries, regions, and territories.
IQAir’s 2021 World Air Quality Report is the first major global air quality report based on the updated annual WHO air quality guideline for PM2.5. The new procedure was released in September 2021 and cut the existing annual PM2.5 guideline value from 10 µg/m3 to 5 µg/m3.
Fine particle pollution, known as PM2.5, is commonly accepted as the most harmful, widely monitored air pollutant and is a major contributing factor to health effects such as asthma, stroke, heart and lung diseases. In addition, PM2.5 leads to millions of premature deaths every year.
Key findings:
No country met the latest WHO air quality guideline for PM2.5 in 2021. Only the territories of New Caledonia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico met updated WHO PM2.5 air quality guidelines.
Only 222 out of 6,475 global cities covered in the report met the updated WHO PM2.5 guideline.
Ninety-three cities in the report had annual PM2.5 concentrations exceeding ten times the WHO PM2.5 guideline.
Of 174 Latin America and the Caribbean cities, only 12 (7 percent) met the WHO PM2.5 guideline.
Of 65 African cities, only one (1.5 percent) met the updated annual WHO PM2.5 guideline.
Of 1,887 Asian cities, only four (0.2 percent) met the updated WHO PM2.5 guideline.
Of the 1,588 cities in Europe, only 55 (3 percent) met the WHO PM2.5 guideline.
The report covered 2,406 cities in the United States and found that average PM2.5 concentrations rose from 9.6 µg/m3 to 10.3 µg/m3 in 2021 compared to 2020.
Of the major cities in the United States, Los Angeles was the most polluted. However, the city of angels saw an overall decrease in PM2.5 pollution of 6 percent compared to 2020.
The top five most polluted countries in 2021 were:
- Bangladesh
- Chad
- Pakistan
- Tajikistan
- India
New Delhi (India) is the world’s most polluted capital city for the second consecutive year, followed by Dhaka (Bangladesh), N’Djamena (Chad), Dushanbe (Tajikistan), and Muscat (Oman).
Air quality in China continued to improve in 2021. More than half of the cities in China included in the report saw lower levels of air pollution when compared to the previous year. Pollution levels within the capital city of Beijing continued a nine-year trend of improved air quality, driven by emission control and reduction of coal power plant activity and other high emission industries.
Central and South Asia had some of the world’s worst air quality in 2021 and was home to 47 of the world’s 50 most polluted cities. The only two cities that met the updated WHO PM2.5 guideline were Zhezqazghan and Chu (Kazakhstan).
Air quality monitoring remains sparse in Africa, South America, and the Middle East. However, progress has been made by low-cost air quality sensors often operated by non-profit organizations and citizen scientists.
“Shockingly, no major city or country provides safe and healthy air to their citizens according to the latest World Health Organization air quality guideline,” said Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir. “This report underscores just how much work remains to be done to ensure that everyone has safe, clean, and healthy air to breathe. The time for action is now.”
“We understand better than ever before how air pollution damages our health and economies. This report is a wake-up call, revealing how people are denied access to clean air. Particulate matter air pollution is produced by burning coal, oil, and fossil gas, unsustainable development, and agricultural activities. Addressing the air pollution crisis requires developing renewable energy resources and clean-powered, accessible public transport. Moreover, solutions to air pollution are also solutions to the climate crisis. Breathing clean air should be a basic human right, not a privilege,” said Greenpeace India Campaign manager Avinash Chanchal.
The 2021 World Air Quality Report is based on PM2.5 air pollution data from ground-based air quality monitoring stations in 6,475 cities in 117 countries, regions, and territories. Of the air quality monitoring stations included in this report, 44 percent were operated by governmental agencies.
IQAir is a Swiss-based air quality technology company that empowers individuals, organizations, and communities to breathe cleaner air through information, collaboration, and technology solutions. IQAir provides affordable air quality monitoring and data solutions to governments, NGOs, educational institutions, corporations, and individuals in over 100 countries.
Source: IQAir
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:33 PM | View the original post
March 16, 2022
Myntra launches 'Teens Store' catering to the growing demand for trend-first styles for India's fashion-forward teens.
Will offer over 20,000 styles from more than 100 domestic and international brands, specific to teen fashion
Key categories include Athleisure, Denim wear, Casual wear, Party wear, Ethnic wear, Footwear, and Accessories.
Brands on the ‘Teens Store’ include UTH by Roadster Life & Co., Justice, H&M, HRX, Nike, CK, Adidas, and Mango teens.
BANGALORE, India, March 16, 2022 — In a pioneering move, Myntra has announced the launch of its one-of-its-kind, dedicated shopping alley for teenagers on its platform called ‘Teens Store.’ The store intends to address the specific needs of teens in the market who seek to experiment with trendy fashion more often and have varied requirements in styles, size, brands, and fitting. “The ‘Teens Store’ on the Myntra app will cater to all their wardrobe needs under one roof, alongside a host of other value adds that make shopping effortless and instantly gratifying,” the company explained.
The ‘Teens Store’ will house a curated range of styles, from a host of well-renowned international brands and domestic brands like Justice, CK, UTH by Roadster Life & Co., Tommy Hilfiger, HRX, H&M, Nike, Puma, Adidas, and Mango Teens, complemented by the latest fashion trends, styling tips, and ensembled looks. The store currently houses over 20,000 styles from 100 domestic and international brands.
According to Myntra, some of the key categories in the teens’ segment include Athleisure, Denim Wear, Innerwear, Casual wear, Party wear, Ethnic wear, Footwear, and Accessories.
Jubi Samuel, Senior Director, Category Management, Myntra, said, “As a platform that holistically caters to the fashion needs, Myntra is pleased to pioneer creating a unique teen-specific offering. We are working with existing and prospective brands on our platform to create unique experiences for teenagers by truly understanding and catering to their varied needs. Our ‘Teens Store’ would therefore be a one-stop-shop for all the wardrobe needs of teens, helping them express their authentic identities. Myntra will offer one of the largest collections of brands, styles, designs, and fittings in this segment to suit the ever-evolving fashion needs of teenagers while also being mindful of affordability and comfort.”
Myntra is India’s leading platform for fashion brands. The company has partnered with over 5000+ top fashion and lifestyle brands such as H&M, Levis, U.S. Polo Assn., Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Philippe, Jack & Jones, MANGO, Forever 21, Urbanic, Marks & Spencer, W, Biba, Nike, Puma, Crocs, MAC, and Fossil to offer a wide range in latest branded fashion and lifestyle wear.
Source: Myntra
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:31 PM | View the original post
March 15, 2022
Beautiful Mountain Flowers Featured on New U.S. Postal Service Stamps
ALPINE, Wyo., March 14, 2022 — With spring approaching, the U.S. Postal Service has issued new Forever stamps featuring mountain flora. These flowers will soon be springing up in a riot of beautiful blooms across their respective habitats, while the four new stamps will appear in Post Offices nationwide in the USA.
Each stamp features a different flower:
- A purple pasqueflower
- An orange-red wood lily
- A bright yellow alpine buttercup
- A dark pink Woods’ rose
The artist’s hand-drawn illustrations are refined digitally to create a block-print aesthetic.
An essential part of the natural world, wildflower habitats support species such as butterflies, bees, birds, and foraging mammals. Wildflowers grow in varied environments, including bogs and swamps, forests and woodlands, alpine meadows, mountain slopes, coastal bluffs, and deserts. As a result, some wildflowers are widely distributed across the United States, while others are specific to just a tiny area.
Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamps with original art by Lili Arnold.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:06 PM | View the original post
March 12, 2022
"Writing with Fire" — National Press Club Washington DC hosts a documentary screening on a women-run news network in India.
Photo: 94th Oscars nominee Rintu Thomas, Director of “Writing with Fire” Documentary, arrives at the Oscar Nominee Luncheon held at the Fairmont Century Plaza on Monday, March 7, 2022. The 94th Oscars will air on Sunday, March 27, 2022, live on ABC. Image credit: Phil McCarten / © A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: 94th Oscars nominee Sushmit Ghosh, Director of “Writing with Fire” Documentary, arrives at the Oscar Nominee Luncheon held at the Fairmont Century Plaza on Monday, March 7, 2022. The 94th Oscars will air on Sunday, March 27, 2022, live on ABC. Image credit: Phil McCarten / © A.M.P.A.S.
Washington, DC, March 11, 2022 — The National Press Club will host a special screening of the Oscar-nominated film “Writing with Fire” at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 14.
The documentary tells the story of Khabar Lahariya, the only news network in India run by women. The fierce band of Dalit (low caste) women serves as an anchor for truth and justice and a pillar of democracy. They defy the bounds of gender and caste and redefine what it means to be influential in their homes and the world with wit and grace.
The event, which is open to Club members and their guests, begins at 6:30 p.m. with a conversation with the film’s directors, Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh. The screening starts at 7:30 p.m.
The film won the Audience Award at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival.
View the trailer.
• Writing With Fire (Official Trailer)
In a cluttered news landscape dominated by men emerges a newspaper run by Dalit women. Armed with smartphones, Chief Reporter Meera and her journalists break traditions, be it on the frontlines of India’s most significant issues or within the confines of their homes, redefining what it means to be powerful.
Directed and Produced by: Rintu Thomas & Sushmit Ghosh
Source: National Press Club
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The Editor is a Member of the National Press Club.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:42 AM | View the original post
March 11, 2022
World's Largest Hot Air Balloon Glow Show
Saudi Arabia, March 10, 2022 — AlUla Moments, in association with SAHAB (Saudi Arabian Ballooning Federation), has broken the Guinness World Records title for the World’s Largest Hot Air Balloon Glow Show.
On March 1, 2022 near Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, s total of 142 brightly-lit balloons were streamlined together in a show over the ancient site that brightened the skies and illuminated the rock-strewn desert landscape. The site is famous for more than 100 carved Nabataean tombs, which feature more than 2000 years of remarkably well-preserved inscriptions and symbols on the sandstone mountains.
A total of 142 brightly-lit balloons were streamlined together in the show over the ancient site that brightened the skies and illuminated the rock-strewn desert landscape.
The previous record was also achieved in AlUla - during its arts and cultural festival, Winter at Tantora, in 2019 - that time it was with 100 balloons.
The World’s Largest Hot Air Balloon Glow Show on March 1, 2022, was part of AlUla Skies, a new festival in the AlUla Moments event calendar. The celebration included sunrise and sunset balloon experiences, with around 150 balloons each morning floating serenely over the stunning ancient site.
AlUla Moments’ winter events calendar offers engaging arts, music, and cultural experiences running until the end of March 2022.
Source: AlUla Moments
|GlobalGiants.Com|
AlUla Hot Air Balloons 2022
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:58 AM | View the original post
March 4, 2022
Woman Power! U.S. Postal Service Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Title IX
Photo: Woman Power! U.S. Postal Service celebrates the 50th anniversary of Title IX with four new stamps.
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2022 — Just five days before International Women’s Day, the U.S. Postal Service commemorated legislation that leveled the playing field, literally, for women and girls nationwide in the USA with the dedication of four Title IX Forever stamps.
The U.S. Congress enacted Title IX, and President Richard Nixon signed it in 1972. The act prohibits sex discrimination in any educational program or activity receiving federal financial aid.
Title IX states: No person in the United States shall, based on sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
“Title IX created pathways for enriching women’s programs, allowing for a broader range of competitive offerings, more robust physical education regimens, and equivalent resources,” said Amber McReynolds, member of the USPS Board of Governors. Amber McReynolds was the dedicating official during the related U.S. Department of Education ceremony in Washington, DC. “I can personally attest to the positive impacts of Title IX. I have seen my daughter excel with the increased opportunities available to her. I am thankful she can grow up knowing these rights are not only deserved but expected.”
Also participating in the event were Cindy Marten, deputy secretary, Department of Education; Catherine Lhamon, assistant secretary, Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education; Sheila Johnson, president and managing partner, Washington Mystics; Donna de Varona, double Olympic gold medalist and first president of the Women’s Sports Foundation and Melinda Beck, stamp designer and artist.
Four different stamps feature dark blue silhouettes of one of four female athletes: a runner, a swimmer, a gymnast, and a soccer player. Yellow laurel branches, symbolic of victory, rest in their hair and on the swimmer’s cap. The four Forever stamps are in a pane of 20. The art director was Derry Noyes.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:25 AM | View the original post
March 3, 2022
Tata Elxsi unveiled as Title Partner for 2022 Bowler Defender Challenge.
- Tata Elxsi to partner with the Bowler Defender Challenge 2022
- The design and technology service provider will use series as a showcase for their skills
- Partnership is a demonstration of “Xtreme Engineering” - a Tata Elxsi core mind-set
Photo: Tata Elxsi unveiled as Title Partner for 2022 Bowler Defender Challenge
BANGALORE, India, March 2, 2022 — Tata Elxsi, amongst the world’s leading design and technology service providers, was today unveiled as the title partner for the 2022 Bowler Defender Challenge series. The global specialist in design thinking and digital technology development sees the challenge series as a perfect demonstration of Xtreme Engineering - where technology, engineering, and design come together to deliver the X factor in pace and performance.
The Bowler Defender Challenge held over 7 UK rounds with 12 teams competing in identical Bowler Defender rally vehicles, pits drivers, navigators, and vehicles against various competitive rally conditions. Each team will need to master the terrain and conditions to challenge for the championship from safari and hill rally through fast tarmac and gravel. The development of the Bowler Defender, from mule to full competition car in less than two years, is a prime example of the work Tata Elxsi undertakes. Converting the highly-capable Defender from a production passenger car to a rally-prepared competition vehicle requires fully integrating the existing systems into a competitive format.
Nitin Pai, Chief Strategy Officer and CMO Tata Elxsi commented, “The opportunity for Tata Elxsi to partner with the Bowler Defender Challenge gives us a superb platform to showcase our brand. With constant demands on the teams and the support crews, a high-performance environment brings the term “Xtreme Engineering” to life. Bowler is a world-class competition brand, and we see them as a perfect partner for our products and services in the modern automotive industry. We’re excited to be part of the action!”
Bowler General Manager Calum Mckechnie said, “We are excited to have Tata Elxsi partner with the Bowler Defender Challenge. To have a global leader onboard in the first year is a strongly positive endorsement of the series, the development work, and the direction in which Bowler is forging. Tata Elxsi understands perfectly the engineering and integration aspects of our business and the pressure to find solutions that only competition can bring. It’s going to be an exciting year for our partnership.”
The first round of the 2022 Bowler Defender Challenge takes place on the 5th and 6th of March at Walters Arena, near Neath, Wales.
Incorporated in 1989, Tata Elxsi is amongst the world’s leading design and technology services providers across industries, including Automotive, Media, Communications, Healthcare, and Transportation.
Bowler, founded in 1985, is based in Belper, Derbyshire, and pioneered the production of dedicated off-road competition cars in the UK.
Bowler provides its customers with competition racing events to provide them with the driving skills and technical competition knowledge necessary to undertake international rally raid events.
Source: Tata Elxsi
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:25 AM | View the original post
March 2, 2022
United Nations Secretary-General Launches Humanitarian Flash Appeal and Regional Refugee Response Plan for Ukraine
Photo: UN Secretary-General António Guterres (left) walks in the corridor at UN Headquarters, on his way to launch a Humanitarian Flash Appeal and a Regional Refugee Response Plan for Ukraine. March 01, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Photo: Richard M. Mills, Jr., Deputy Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in Ukraine. February 28, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Photo: A broad view of the Security Council Chamber as Filippo Grandi (on-screen), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, briefs the meeting on the situation in Ukraine. February 28, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Photo: Sergiy Kyslytsya, Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in Ukraine. February 28, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Loey Felipe.
Photo: Pordis Kolbrun Reykfjoro Gylfadottir, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development Cooperation of Iceland, addresses the high-level segment of the 49th regular session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. February 28, 2022. Switzerland. Geneva. UN Photo/Violaine Martin.
Photo: Melanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, addresses the High-Level Segment 2022 Conference on Disarmament. February 28, 2022. Switzerland. Geneva. UN Photo/Violaine Martin.
Photo: Vassily Nebenzia, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for February, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in Ukraine. February 28, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Photo: A view of New York from United Nations Headquarters. March 01, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Source: United Nations
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:36 PM | View the original post
February 24, 2022
Winter sports Lamborghini style.
Sant’Agata Bolognese/Livigno (Italy), February 24, 2022 - Lamborghini returns to the ice ring in the beautiful landscape of Livigno in February 2022. Finding the world’s most perfect playgrounds for winter sports vacations, Lamborghini clients get behind the wheel for a three-day Accademia Neve. Freezing temperatures of around zero during the daytime, dropping to around minus ten degrees at night, provide the perfect setting of ice and snow to test the sporty capabilities of the Lamborghini Huracán range and Urus Super SUV.
The challenging driving experience on snow and ice - the ‘black runs’ of Lamborghini’s Accademia program - provides guests with the perfect antidote to the last two years’ lost winter seasons, together with the luxury of being hosted in the best hotels and restaurants in the area.
Lamborghini’s team of Squadra Corsa drivers lead the driving activities and deliver instruction, ensuring each participant maximizes their potential and Lamborghini cars’ capabilities in the winter sports environment. The four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering Huracán EVO and Urus perfectly perform each exercise on the challenging mountain ice track, while the rear-wheel-drive Huracán STO delivers high-octane race-oriented control.
High performance and freezing conditions aren’t new to Lamborghini. Therefore, in Sant’Agata DRIVERS’ LAB, the Lamborghini pilots benefit from sessions using the most advanced training machines supported by a personal trainer.
Source: Lamborghini
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Snow and Ice Drift: Lamborghini Accademia in Livigno
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:01 PM | View the original post
February 19, 2022
Mumbai, India, elected to host the IOC Session in 2023
Photo: Mumbai, India, elected to host the IOC Session in 2023. Beijing, China, February 19, 2022. Image provided by & copyright © IOC / Greg Martin.
Photo: IOC President Thomas Bach holds a Press Conference at the MMC during BEIJING 2022, the XXIV IOC Olympic Winter Games. Beijing, China, February 18, 2022. Image provided by & copyright © IOC / Greg Martin.
BEIJING, CHINA — February 19, 2022 - Mumbai, India, will host the IOC Session in 2023. This decision was taken by the IOC Members today during the 139th Session in Beijing. The IOC Session will go back to India 40 years after its 86th edition, in New Delhi in 1983.
The Indian delegation made a remote presentation to the IOC Members. The Indian panel included IOC Member Mrs. Nita Ambani, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Dr. Narinder Batra, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mr. Anurag Singh Thakur, and India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist (Beijing 2008, shooting), Mr. Abhinav Bindra.
The 139th IOC Session elected Mumbai to become the host of the IOC Session in May-June 2023 (exact dates to be confirmed) by 75 yes votes of the 76 valid votes cast.
The decision by the IOC Session, meeting in Beijing for the Olympic Winter Games 2022, follows the proposal of the IOC Executive Board (EB) made in March 2020, upon the recommendation of the IOC Session Evaluation Commission.
The Commission had visited Mumbai in October 2019 to study the feasibility of hosting the IOC Session in the city. It praised the quality of the facilities at the Jio World Centre, which will be the venue for the IOC Session.
The Commission was also impressed by the potential of India as a country, which is the world’s sixth-largest economy and has a population of 1.3 billion people.
IOC President Thomas Bach said: “We have chosen India because it is the second-most populous nation globally, with a very young population and a huge potential for Olympic sport. We want to encourage and support the National Olympic Committee of India and all the National Federations to promote and strengthen Olympic sport in the country.”
Hosting the IOC Session in India will highlight the role of sport in the country and celebrate the contribution of India to the Olympic Movement.
Mr. Bindra pledged that Mumbai will “step up in every way, with its resilient spirit, as sport helps the world return to normality,” and spoke about the “excitement at the potential to inspire 1.3 billion people to the spirit of sport and Olympic values.”
Mrs. Ambani added: “Since we last had the honor of welcoming the Olympic family, we have made consistent strides and grown into a more prosperous, more self-confident India.”
To coincide with the IOC Session in 2023, Mrs. Ambani proposed to launch a series of elite sports development programs for young people across deprived communities. “I believe this is only the beginning, and it is time to elevate our partnership with the Olympic Movement to greater heights,” she said, referring to the country’s ambition to host the Olympic Games in the future.
Mr. Batra explained that: “In recent years, India as a nation has embraced sports and fitness. There is a strong belief that sports can provide fundamental shifts in our society. Amongst our first steps in showcasing new India’s sports capabilities to the world is our proposal to host the IOC Session in Mumbai 2023.”
Finally, Mr. Singh Thakur spoke about the Indian government’s vision of India becoming one of the world’s leading sporting nations. “It is my firm belief that the Olympic Movement can help accelerate our vibrant nation in the right direction. Hosting the IOC Session in 2023 will demonstrate our ambition and elevate the potential of our partnership.”
The year 2023 will be significant for India as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of its independence. Hosting the IOC Session in Mumbai will put the Olympic Movement at the heart of those celebrations.
Source: International Olympic Committee (IOC)
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:53 PM | View the original post
'Get Noticed': A digital Grooming School from Miss India Organization to power the aspirants personality.
- Bringing the legacy, the tradition, the experience, now making it easily accessible. Seven subjects, Seven celebrity mentors, and one life-changing school — The Grooming School from the House of Miss India
Photo: Renowned industry experts Savio John Pereira (Haircare), Alesia Raut (Ramp Walk), Sanjeev Dutta (Personality Development), Bharat Gupta (Fashion & Styling), Nitibha Kaul (Social Media Etiquette), Ayesha Seth (Makeup), Zara Dadi (Skincare) along with Nehal Chudasama have designed the training modules of The Grooming School.
MUMBAI, India, Feb. 18, 2022 — The Miss India Organisation has decided to leverage its vast experience and expertise in transforming women into confident, booming winners in life by launching The Grooming School. It is a suite of ‘Do-It-Yourself’ video tutorials conducted by acknowledged and acclaimed experts who have been behind many successful Miss India winners and aims to bring this knowledge to the larger Indian audience and not just pageant participants.
The Grooming School is aimed at young women who would like to sharpen their personality and technical skills to stand out from the crowd and succeed. These modules aim to touch all the elements of one’s personality that help build confidence and appeal. The world is moving more and more into a networked society, and the need to hold their own with a strong personality is becoming imperative.
The Grooming Masterclass six modules include Skincare, Hair Care & Styling, Make-up, Personality Development, Fashion Styling, and Social Media Etiquettes and involve self-paced learning.
In addition to the modules for the larger audience, The Miss India Organisation is also launching the ‘Ace Your Pageant - A Miss India Masterclass’ as a marquee offering specifically for pageant aspirants who wish to participate in Miss India or Miss Diva. This course elevates learning to prepare one for a pageant. It is for those who want to compete for the coveted crown by acing their poise, presence, communication, beauty, body language, body structure, attitude, and discipline. The additional modules focus on ramp walking, fitness, and other expert sessions and hacks on personality development and life skills.
In an age where women are increasingly seeking to be independent and take control of their lives, they need to possess self-esteem, be confident and poised, be well-versed in social etiquette and self-grooming. While many urban educated women mind their ‘P’s and ‘Q’s and keep abreast of other social norms, there are a whole lot of Indian women who haven’t had that kind of an early grounding. While it doesn’t dampen their dreams or aspirations, easy and affordable access to contemporary lessons in physical, emotional, and social grooming will go a long way in helping them realize their dreams.
The Miss India Organisation, over the past six decades, has been the most robust platform for young women to empower themselves and realize their life dreams. It has witnessed Indian women struggling to break out of a male-dominated society and make space for themselves. Many winners over the years have used this platform to create positive change towards women’s empowerment and the community at large. The Miss India Organisation has been a pioneer in triggering this evolution.
It is the ideal starter program for all pageant aspirants. Earning a certificate in the ‘Ace your Pageant’ course gives the candidate an immense benefit of ‘Cutting the Queue’ if applying for these two pageants. As thousands of applicants get screened for auditions, many don’t even get a chance to present themselves and make a pitch. But with this certificate, they will be able to enter the auditions without going through the screening process and get a chance to present themselves to the talent-spotting team of Miss India Organisation.
Eight renowned fashion, beauty, fitness, personality development, and social media experts from the industry have meticulously prepared these tutorials, sharing secrets, tricks, and hacks they’ve acquired during their years in the trade. They include Savio John Pereira (Haircare), Alesia Raut (Ramp Walk), Sanjeev Dutta (Personality Development), Nehal Chudasama (Fitness), Nitibha Kaul (Social Media Etiquette), Bharat Gupta (Fashion & Styling), Zara Dadi (Skincare), and Ayesha Seth (Makeup).
The program is open to applicants from all walks of life above 16 years of age who ardently wish to uncover their true potential and achieve big things in life. The Grooming School - from the House of Miss India has a special early bird offer with a discount of over 25 percent for all enrolments during the inaugural year. In addition, the applicants will receive certificates from ‘The Miss India Organisation’ on completing the course.
Miss India Organisation, a household name and a powerful aspirational brand, has reigned for decades with its legacy of creating icons for the social, glamour, and fashion industry. In addition, the organization is host to the country’s most coveted and sensational beauty pageants, namely, Miss India, Miss Diva, and Mr. India.
Miss India Organisation’s global Hall of Fame features the likes of Rita Faria, Zeenat Aman, Juhi Chawla, Sushmita Sen, Aishwarya Rai, Diana Hayden, Yukta Mookhey, Gul Panag, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, Dia Mirza, Celine Jaitley, Neha Dhupia, Parvathy Omnakuttan, Pooja Chopra, Nicole Faria, Srishti Rana, Asha Bhat, Ruhi Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Vartika Singh, Srinidhi Shetty, Lopamudra Raut, Manushi Chhillar, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Suman Rao, Adline Castelino, and Harnaaz Sandhu.
Source: The Miss India Organisation
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:28 PM | View the original post
February 18, 2022
David Yurman unveils its new Campaign "Come Closer," featuring Scarlett Johansson and Henry Golding.
NEW YORK, Feb. 17, 2022 — David Yurman, one of America’s foremost luxury jewelry brands, has announced its first brand campaign under the leadership of newly ascended company president Evan Yurman. The 2022 campaign marks another milestone for the house, as it features David Yurman’s first-ever celebrity brand ambassador duo - Scarlett Johansson and Henry Golding.
The campaign, aptly titled “Come Closer,” celebrates the joy of closeness and connection in challenging times, featuring images of two of the world’s most recognizable celebrities against the backdrop of David Yurman’s perennial inspiration and home of New York City.
“After years of separation for many - much longer than any of us could have anticipated - we are all craving connection,” said Evan Yurman. “‘Come Closer’ is a call to all of us to delight in every day, where simple moments with family and friends are unexpected and beautiful.”
• Scarlett Johansson for David Yurman 2022 “Come Closer” Campaign
When envisioning the campaign, there was only one choice for Evan Yurman when it came to its female star.
“Scarlett is the embodiment of the David Yurman woman. A native New Yorker at the top of her craft, Scarlett is a woman who forges her path. She doesn’t take no for an answer and isn’t afraid to stand up for herself and what’s right,” said Evan Yurman. “To have the opportunity to work with a force like Scarlett to create such honest images, profound in their lack of pretense and artifice, is an honor.”
For “Come Closer,” mother, founder, Tony winner, and two-time Academy Award-nominated actress Johansson was photographed by renowned fashion photographer Lachlan Bailey and styled by Anastasia Barbieri.
“Growing up in New York, I always felt connected to David Yurman - I would see their beautiful black and white ads in all my favorite fashion magazines,” said Johansson. “The Yurmans and their designs always embodied New York for me - bold, fresh, and just a bit of edge. So when Evan approached me with this opportunity and shared his vision for the campaign, I already felt so linked to the brand that it was a natural fit.”
• Henry Golding for David Yurman 2022 “Come Closer” Campaign
With the decision to introduce the brand’s first-ever male ambassador, Henry Golding shined. Already exhibiting the enigmatic qualities of the David Yurman man, Golding’s New York story is one of perseverance and identity.
“Henry embodies the passion and grit of the David Yurman man. He’s extremely talented, conscientious, and well-traveled, but of all the amazing places he’s visited, and after all that he’s achieved, it is the spirit of New York City that keeps calling him back,” said Evan Yurman. “We are thrilled to welcome Henry into the David Yurman family and to introduce him as the face of the Men’s category, debuting in our new campaign that shares the sometimes-quiet ways that only New York City can draw you back.”
For “Come Closer,” renowned fashion photographer Lachlan Bailey photographed father, advocate, and globally celebrated actor Henry Golding.
“There is a magnetism to New York City and a tenacity among New Yorkers that is difficult to describe but contagious just the same. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit the city many times for both personal and professional reasons, and each time I feel more and more a sense of belonging,” said Golding. “David Yurman is a testament to the city’s heritage and values, and I’m honored to be the face of a brand whose timeless works of self-expression continue to connect us all.”
Source: David Yurman
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Come Closer with Scarlett Johansson | David Yurman
Introducing new campaign “Come Closer” with Scarlett Johansson, a born-and-bred New Yorker.
Come Closer with Henry Golding | David Yurman
Introducing new campaign “Come Closer” with Henry Golding, father, advocate, and actor.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:15 AM | View the original post
February 14, 2022
Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar charts a New Course
The original Swiss connected watch powered by the sun’s energy returns with a range of new technologies and innovations that make it more exciting and better tailored to your lifestyle than ever.
Tissot T‑Touch Connect Solar is charting a new course. The latest generation T-Touch has Tissot’s characteristic watchmaking expertise in all its forms: It is a Swiss-made timepiece, is connected, securely private, interactive, autonomous, contemporary, and long-lasting.
Source: TISSOT
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:08 PM | View the original post
February 13, 2022
Making the most of the Olympic experience at Beijing 2022
Photos: Making the most of the Olympic experience at Beijing 2022.
While competing at the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, athletes can benefit from a range of services available either in person at the Olympic Village or digitally through Athlete365.
By signing up to Athlete365, the IOC’s official platform for the global athlete community, Beijing 2022 athletes gain access to a range of exclusive Olympian services geared towards helping them make the most of their Olympic experience.
These include innovative tools designed to bring fans, friends, and family closer to the action to experience the Games with the athletes.
• Connecting with families and friends, plus fans around the world
Athlete Moment, which proved so popular when piloted at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, is being rolled out by Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) across all winter sports at Beijing 2022, enabling athletes to connect with loved ones back home immediately after their competition. All they need to do is fill in a simple online form specifying who from their entourage they want on the other end of the screen, and the Athlete365 team takes care of the logistics.
Meanwhile, Athlete365 Connect allows athletes to receive free, high-resolution Getty Images of themselves competing on the field of play at Beijing 2022 and behind the scenes, ready to instantly share to their social media channels, potentially reaching new followers. They will continue to have access to the images after the Games, too, so that they can celebrate Beijing 2022 and grow their brand in the weeks following the Closing Ceremony.
Athletes can also sign up for the Airbnb500 Travel Grant when they have finished competing. Delivered in partnership with TOP Partner Airbnb, each Beijing 2022 Olympian and Paralympian who signs up through the online form will receive an Airbnb credit worth USD 500 to spend on unwinding after the Games or going after their next goal - or both.
• Olympic Village services
“The Beijing Olympic Village is the largest non-competition venue of the Games that best meets the needs of the competing athletes,” said SHEN Qianfan, Director-General of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Village. “With its comfortable apartments and 2,300 beds, 2200 square meters dining hall operating 24 hours, and fitness and entertainment areas, the Village provides all the necessary services. In addition, it includes medical and psychological assistance to all athletes to perform at their best and enjoy their time in Beijing”.
There is a Galaxy Athlete Lounge in each Olympic Village. In addition, athletes can pick up their complimentary, limited-edition Beijing 2022 mobile phone from TOP Partner Samsung to help them share their Olympic experiences with the world.
Many of the usual Olympic Village activities are in place to keep athletes relaxed and entertained, with table tennis already proving extremely popular in Beijing. The conditions in the Villages have drawn praise from athletes.
Source: International Olympic Committee
|GlobalGiants.Com|
• Anna Shcherbakova wins Women’s Gold! | Figure Skating Beijing 2022 | Free Skate highlights
ROC (Russian Olympic Committee) skater Anna Shcherbakova became Olympic champion after her free skate saw her score a massive personal best.
• Figure Skating Beijing 2022 | Team Event Women’s Short Highlights
Stunning performance by Kamila Valieva.
Kamila Valieva moved ROC (Russian Olympic Committee) to the top of the team event standings with a stunning performance in the women’s short program at the Beijing 2022 Olympics.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:42 PM | View the original post
February 10, 2022
Sony invites fans to the new brand campaign "Set The Stage" with The Kid LAROI.
- Tate McRae and BIA collaborate with Sony to bring top hits to life through fan-created artwork.
TOKYO, February 9, 2022 — Sony Group Corporation has announced a new brand campaign, “Set The Stage,” — an opportunity for music fans to help co-create content with some of their favorite Sony Music Entertainment artists. The artists include The Kid LAROI, the Australian artist behind the chart-toppers “Stay” and “Without You,” multi-platinum-certified, Boston-born artist BIA (“Whole Lotta Money”) and Canadian singer/ songwriter /dancer Tate McRae (“you broke me first”).
Streaming live from a studio in Los Angeles, Tate McRae will begin a string of live performance videos on February 24 with a live set featuring her new single “she’s all I wanna be,” released on February 4. BIA will follow with a performance video on March 3, with “Set The Stage” culminating in an upcoming grand finale performance from The Kid LAROI*.
To bring fans even closer to the Sony Music artists they love, The Kid LAROI, Tate McRae, and BIA will each invite their followers to participate in the “Set The Stage” challenge. Fans in the United States will submit artwork of the artist’s song lyrics that will then be turned into dynamic, visual works that the artists will perform within during their “Set The Stage” live video performance.
“I’m beyond excited to partner with Sony and bring my fans in on the fun,” said Sony Music Artist The Kid LAROI. “My fans have quite literally changed my life, and I want to connect with them in new ways. With my first global tour coming up, I wanted to take this opportunity to share this experience with my fans, putting their voices at the center of my work.”
“Providing fans with a deeper connection to their favorite artists and their music through technology is the cornerstone of Set The Stage,” said Shiro Kambe, Senior Executive Vice President, Corporate Executive Officer of Sony Group Corporation. “We are creating exciting new content by pairing talented artists and innovative technology to deliver an experience that only Sony can provide.”
On Thursday, February 24, the action kicks off when viewers can tune in to watch Tate McRae’s live “Set The Stage” performance on Sony’s global YouTube channel.
Source: Sony Group Corporation
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Tate McRae - you broke me first.
(An Immersive 3D Version Made For Spatial Reality Display)
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:36 AM | View the original post
February 9, 2022
World Photography Organisation and Sony World Photography announces National Awards 2022
Photo: Polar Bear Cub. Photographer: Jenny Zhao. Year: 2022. Country: USA. A polar bear cub is staring wistfully into the distance. Shot in Canada in November 2021. Copyright © Jenny Zhao, United States of America. Winner, National Awards, Natural World & Wildlife, 2022 Sony World Photography Awards.
London, February 09, 2022 — The World Photography Organisation and the Sony United States have announced Jenny Zhao as the United States National Award winner for the Sony World Photography Awards 2022.
The National Awards program is an initiative set up by the World Photography Organisation and Sony to support local photographic communities worldwide, with 61 countries taking part this year.
Photographers from 211 territories submitted over 340,000 images to the Sony World Photography Awards 2022. Over 170,000 photos made entry to the Open competition for the National Awards.
Jenny Zhao was anonymously selected by judges for her photograph Polar Bear Cub, entered into the Natural World & Wildlife category of the Open competition. The image depicts a polar bear cub staring wistfully into the distance, shot in Canada in November 2021.
Jenny Zhao is an Amateur wildlife photographer based in Boston, Massachusetts. Her striking images of nature feature in leading international wildlife publications.
Commenting on her win Zhao said: It is such an honor for my photo of a polar bear cub in Hudson Bay, Canada, shortlisted for the National Award in Sony World Photography Awards 2022.
As the United States’ National Award winner, Jenny Zhao receives Sony digital imaging equipment and gets included in the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition and book.
• This year’s National Award Winners are:
- Austria - Sonja Ivancsics
- Bangladesh - Kazi Arifuzzaman
- Belgium - Mathis Vandermeeren
- Bulgaria - Minko Mihaylov
- Cambodia - Sean Channal
- Croatia - Majda Pavlekovic
- Czech Republic - Martina Dimunova
- Denmark - Sussi Charlotte Alminde
- Egypt - Sherif Salem
- Estonia - Raido Nurk
- Finland - Damon Beckford
- France - Patrick Bosc
- Germany - Frank Loddenkemper
- Greece - Foteini Zaglara
- Hungary - Edina Csoboth
- Iceland - Viktor Einar Vilhelmsson
- India - Haider Khan
- Indonesia - Metha Meiryna
- Italy - Antonino Pellicano
- Japan - Kaoru Sugiyama, Winner
- Japan - Yasuhiro Takachi, 2nd Place
- Japan - Mituhiro Okabe, 3rd Place
- Kuwait - Mohammad Mirza
- Republic of Korea -Wonyoung Choi, Winner
- Republic of Korea - Wookeun Choi, 2nd Place
- Republic of Korea - Jung Woon Park, 3rd Place
- Latvia - Viktors Rimarevs
- Lithuania - Virginija MureikienÄ—
- Malaysia - Yih Chang Chew
- Myanmar - Swe Tun
- Nepal - Dikpal Thapa
- Netherlands - Harrie Coehorst
- Nigeria - Samakinwa Emmanuel Temitope
- Norway - Hans Kristian Strand
- Pakistan - Yawar Abbas
- Philippines - Mariah Zamora
- Poland - Marcin Giba
- Portugal - Jose Pessoa Neto
- Qatar - Amal Prasad
- Romania - Teodor Toma
- Russian Federation - Marianna Smolina
- Saudi Arabia - Mazin Alhassan
- Serbia - Vladimir Zivojinovic
- Singapore - Chin Leong Teo
- Slovakia - Filip Hrebenda
- Slovenia - Matjaž Šimic
- South Africa - Tshabalala Bongani
- Spain- Mariano Belmar Torrecilla
- Sweden - Peter Angvarson
- Switzerland - Tinu Müller
- Taiwan - Chihao Wang
- Thailand - Kunuch Chutmongkolporn
- Turkey - Cigdem Ayyildiz
- United Arab Emirates - Salem Alsawafi
- United States - Jenny Zhao
- Vietnam - Thanh Nguyen Phuc
Source: World Photography Organisation
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:36 AM | View the original post
February 8, 2022
Academy announces Oscar Nominations.
- The Oscars are set to air live on March 27 on ABC.
Photo: Salma Hayek arrives on the red carpet of The 90th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, CA, on Sunday, March 4, 2018. Image provided by & copyright © Scott Diussa / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
LOS ANGELES, CA - Actor-comedian Leslie Jordan and actor, CEO, and producer Tracee Ellis Ross announced the 94th Oscars nominations today (February 8) via a global live stream on Oscar.com, Oscars.org, the Academy’s digital platforms, an international satellite feed, and broadcast media.
Jordan, Ross, and several special guests announced the nominees in all 23 categories at 5:18 a.m. PST, live from Los Angeles, Times Square in New York City, Howard University in Washington, D.C., Beaumont Hospital in Detroit, MI, and Thaddeus M. Bullard Academy in Tampa, FL.
Academy members from each of the 17 branches vote to determine the nominees in their respective categories - actors nominate actors, film editors nominate film editors, and others. In addition, multi-branch screening committees select nominees by a vote in the Animated Feature Film and International Feature Film categories. Finally, all voting members are eligible to choose the Best Picture nominees. This year, the Academy saw its highest-ever voter participation in its history, with members submitting ballots from 82 countries.
Active members of the Academy are eligible to vote for the winners in all 23 categories beginning Thursday, March 17, through Tuesday, March 22.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global community of the most accomplished artists, filmmakers, and executives working in film. In addition to celebrating and recognizing excellence in filmmaking through the Oscars, the Academy supports a wide range of initiatives to promote the art and science of the movies, including public programming, educational outreach, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
• Nominations for the 94th Academy Awards
• Performance by an actor in a leading role
- Javier Bardem in “Being the Ricardos”
- Benedict Cumberbatch in “The Power of the Dog”
- Andrew Garfield in “tick, tick…BOOM!”
- Will Smith in “King Richard”
- Denzel Washington in “The Tragedy of Macbeth”
• Performance by an actor in a supporting role
- Ciarán Hinds in “Belfast”
- Troy Kotsur in “CODA”
- Jesse Plemons in “The Power of the Dog”
- J.K. Simmons in “Being the Ricardos”
- Kodi Smit-McPhee in “The Power of the Dog”
• Performance by an actress in a leading role
- Jessica Chastain in “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”
- Olivia Colman in “The Lost Daughter”
- Penélope Cruz in “Parallel Mothers”
- Nicole Kidman in “Being the Ricardos”
- Kristen Stewart in “Spencer”
• Performance by an actress in a supporting role
- Jessie Buckley in “The Lost Daughter”
- Ariana DeBose in “West Side Story”
- Judi Dench in “Belfast”
- Kirsten Dunst in “The Power of the Dog”
- Aunjanue Ellis in “King Richard”
• Best animated feature film of the year
- “Encanto” Jared Bush, Byron Howard, Yvett Merino and Clark Spencer
- “Flee” Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie
- “Luca” Enrico Casarosa and Andrea Warren
- “The Mitchells vs. the Machines” Mike Rianda, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Kurt Albrecht
- “Raya and the Last Dragon” Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada, Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho
• Achievement in cinematography
- “Dune” Greig Fraser
- “Nightmare Alley” Dan Laustsen
- “The Power of the Dog” Ari Wegner
- “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Bruno Delbonnel
- “West Side Story” Janusz Kaminski
• Achievement in costume design
- “Cruella” Jenny Beavan
- “Cyrano” Massimo Cantini Parrini and Jacqueline Durran
- “Dune” Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan
- “Nightmare Alley” Luis Sequeira
- “West Side Story” Paul Tazewell
• Achievement in directing
- “Belfast” Kenneth Branagh
- “Drive My Car” Ryusuke Hamaguchi
- “Licorice Pizza” Paul Thomas Anderson
- “The Power of the Dog” Jane Campion
- “West Side Story” Steven Spielberg
• Best documentary feature
- “Ascension” Jessica Kingdon, Kira Simon-Kennedy, and Nathan Truesdell
- “Attica” Stanley Nelson and Traci A. Curry
- “Flee” Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie
- “Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Joseph Patel, Robert Fyvolent and David Dinerstein
- “Writing with Fire” Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh
• Best documentary short subject
- “Audible” Matt Ogens and Geoff McLean
- “Lead Me Home” Pedro Kos and Jon Shenk
- “The Queen of Basketball” Ben Proudfoot
- “Three Songs for Benazir” Elizabeth Mirzaei and Gulistan Mirzaei
- “When We Were Bullies” Jay Rosenblatt
• Achievement in film editing
- “Don’t Look Up” Hank Corwin
- “Dune” Joe Walker
- “King Richard” Pamela Martin
- “The Power of the Dog” Peter Sciberras
- “tick, tick…BOOM!” Myron Kerstein and Andrew Weisblum
• Best international feature film of the year
- “Drive My Car” Japan
- “Flee” Denmark
- “The Hand of God” Italy
- “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom” Bhutan
- “The Worst Person in the World” Norway
• Achievement in makeup and hairstyling
- ” Coming 2 America” Mike Marino, Stacey Morris, and Carla Farmer
- “Cruella” Nadia Stacey, Naomi Donne, and Julia Vernon
- “Dune” Donald Mowat, Love Larson and Eva von Bahr
- “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” Linda Dowds, Stephanie Ingram and Justin Raleigh
- “House of Gucci” Göran Lundström, Anna Carin Lock and Frederic Aspiras
• Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
- “Don’t Look Up” Nicholas Britell
- “Dune” Hans Zimmer
- “Encanto” Germaine Franco
- “Parallel Mothers” Alberto Iglesias
- “The Power of the Dog” Jonny Greenwood
• Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song)
- “Be Alive” from “King Richard”
- Music and Lyric by DIXSON and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter
- “Dos Oruguitas” from “Encanto”
- Music and Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda
- “Down To Joy” from “Belfast”
- Music and Lyric by Van Morrison
- “No Time To Die” from “No Time to Die”
- Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell
- “Somehow You Do” from “Four Good Days”
- Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
• Best motion picture of the year
- “Belfast” Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik and Tamar Thomas, Producers
- “CODA” Philippe Rousselet, Fabrice Gianfermi and Patrick Wachsberger, Producers
- “Don’t Look Up” Adam McKay and Kevin Messick, Producers
- “Drive My Car” Teruhisa Yamamoto, Producer
- “Dune” Mary Parent, Denis Villeneuve and Cale Boyter, Producers
- “King Richard” Tim White, Trevor White, and Will Smith, Producers
- “Licorice Pizza” Sara Murphy, Adam Somner and Paul Thomas Anderson, Producers
- “Nightmare Alley” Guillermo del Toro, J. Miles Dale and Bradley Cooper, Producers
- “The Power of the Dog” Jane Campion, Tanya Seghatchian, Emile Sherman, Iain Canning and Roger Frappier, Producers
- “West Side Story” Steven Spielberg and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
• Achievement in production design
- “Dune” Production Design: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Zsuzsanna Sipos
- “Nightmare Alley” Production Design: Tamara Deverell; Set Decoration: Shane Vieau
- “The Power of the Dog” Production Design: Grant Major; Set Decoration: Amber Richards
- “The Tragedy of Macbeth” Production Design: Stefan Dechant; Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh
- “West Side Story” Production Design: Adam Stockhausen; Set Decoration: Rena DeAngelo
• Best animated short film
- “Affairs of the Art” Joanna Quinn and Les Mills
- “Bestia” Hugo Covarrubias and Tevo DÃaz
- “Boxballet” Anton Dyakov
- “Robin Robin” Dan Ojari and Mikey Please
- “The Windshield Wiper” Alberto Mielgo and Leo Sanchez
• Best live-action short film
- “Ala Kachuu - Take and Run” Maria Brendle and Nadine Lüchinger
- “The Dress” Tadeusz Åysiak and Maciej Åšlesicki
- “The Long Goodbye” Aneil Karia and Riz Ahmed
- “On My Mind” Martin Strange-Hansen and Kim Magnusson
- “Please Hold” K.D. Dávila and Levin Menekse
• Achievement in sound
- “Belfast” Denise Yarde, Simon Chase, James Mather and Niv Adiri
- “Dune” Mac Ruth, Mark Mangini, Theo Green, Doug Hemphill, and Ron Bartlett
- “No Time to Die” Simon Hayes, Oliver Tarney, James Harrison, Paul Massey, and Mark Taylor
- “The Power of the Dog” Richard Flynn, Robert Mackenzie, and Tara Webb
- “West Side Story” Tod A. Maitland, Gary Rydstrom, Brian Chumney, Andy Nelson, and Shawn Murphy
• Achievement in visual effects
- “Dune” Paul Lambert, Tristan Myles, Brian Connor, and Gerd Nefzer
- “Free Guy” Swen Gillberg, Bryan Grill, Nikos Kalaitzidis and Dan Sudick
- “No Time to Die” Charlie Noble, Joel Green, Jonathan Fawkner, and Chris Corbould
- “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” Christopher Townsend, Joe Farrell, Sean Noel Walker, and Dan Oliver
- “Spider-Man: No Way Home” Kelly Port, Chris Waegner, Scott Edelstein and Dan Sudick
• Adapted screenplay
- “CODA” Screenplay by Siân Heder
- “Drive My Car” Screenplay by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Takamasa Oe
- “Dune” Screenplay by Jon Spaihts and Denis Villeneuve and Eric Roth
- “The Lost Daughter” Written by Maggie Gyllenhaal
- “The Power of the Dog” Written by Jane Campion
• Original screenplay
- “Belfast” Written by Kenneth Branagh
- “Don’t Look Up” Screenplay by Adam McKay; Story by Adam McKay & David Sirota
- “King Richard” Written by Zach Baylin
- “Licorice Pizza” Written by Paul Thomas Anderson
- “The Worst Person in the World” Written by Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier
The 94th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 27, 2022, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland in Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. P.T. and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:21 PM | View the original post
February 7, 2022
Picasso’s Guernica Tapestry outside the United Nations Security Council Chamber.
Photo: Picasso’s iconic Guernica tapestry has been cared for by conservators and rehung outside the United Nations Security Council Chamber. It is widely agreed that the impactful message of this vital artwork extends beyond any one entity, institution, or audience. Picasso’s original exposition of the work challenged a broad audience of viewers to confront the powerful symbols deeply through an international tour of the exhibition.
The picture shows a view of the tapestry outside the United Nations Security Council Chamber. New York, United States of America. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Source: United Nations, New York
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:10 AM | View the original post
February 4, 2022
TANISHQ presents 'EVERY WOMAN A DIAMOND.'
Photo: Tanishq Presents ‘Every Woman A Diamond’
BANGALORE, India, February 3, 2022 — India’s top Jewelry retailer, Tanishq, from Tata Group, has launched their latest campaign - ‘Every Woman a Diamond.’ Through this campaign, the brand tells a compelling story on how Tanishq believes in celebrating the women of today, and every woman deserves nothing less than a diamond to cherish who she has shaped herself to be.
Tanishq’s Every Woman a Diamond honors today’s woman by emphasizing something extraordinary in every woman’s seemingly ordinary life journey. Tanishq has featured four real women from different walks of life and attempted to capture moments that are easily relatable in every woman’s life and highlight how every woman should be celebrated for her wins and cherished for who she is.
Tanishq celebrates four remarkable women - Jaclyn, a pilot, a Real Madrid fan who kicks all prejudices aside and blazes forward like a diamond and lands whole flights of people to their desired destinations. Rehana is a self-care therapist who is a force of nature and an unapologetic cat lover who can heal, help meditate and put the belief back into yoga. It’s her overwhelming energy that makes women treat their bodies like they would the most precious of diamonds. Alesha, a fashion designer, an entrepreneur who strongly believes good design is what can save the planet and is known for carving out a reputation for dressing up women of all sizes; straight up, brilliant as a diamond, and effortlessly stylish and Ishani, an athlete, mountaineer, avid skier. Just as comfortable with glamour as she is with the laws of gravity, she looks forward to illuminating the lives of those around her as only the rarest diamonds do.
Tanishq offers a wide range of new diamond rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, bangles, and more. The options make every day a part of a particular day.
Ranjani Krishnaswamy, GM, Marketing, Tanishq, Titan Company Ltd., said, “#EveryWomanADiamond’ is a celebration of the extraordinary in a woman’s life. Quintessentially women give themselves very little credit for the real transformational journey they go through in their lives - navigating work, home, motherhood, relationships, dreams & aspirations, the world of expectations, choices & decisions that come with all of these.”
“We at Tanishq believe women and diamonds have an intrinsic relationship, and nothing less than Tanishq diamonds are befitting to celebrate the extraordinary story of her life. The natural sparkle of diamonds comes from the woman who adorns it, who lends her radiance to make the diamonds shine a little brighter. Therefore, we are offering the most extensive assortment of stunning diamonds designed, keeping in mind the quintessential women of today. We genuinely hope our diamonds can match the brilliance of all the women out there!” Ranjani Krishnaswamy added.
Tanishq, India’s jewelry brand from the TATA Group, has been synonymous with superior craftsmanship, exclusive designs, and guaranteed product quality for over two decades. Tanishq offers Gold, Diamonds & Platinum jewelry in over 5000 traditional, western, and fusion looks. The Tanishq retail chain currently spreads across 380+ exclusive boutiques in more than 220 cities in India.
Source: Tanishq
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:21 AM | View the original post
February 2, 2022
The Royal Canadian Mint pays tribute to Great Inventor Alexander Graham Bell with a Fine Silver Collector Coin.
Photo: The Royal Canadian Mint’s 2022 Proof Silver Dollar marks the 175th anniversary of the birth of famed inventor Alexander Graham Bell. Alexander Graham Bell was a Scottish-born inventor, scientist, and engineer credited with inventing and patenting the first practical telephone.
OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 2, 2022 — Stories of outstanding achievement often find their way on Royal Canadian Mint coins. To mark the 175th anniversary of the birth of famed inventor Alexander Graham Bell, the Mint is dedicating its 2022 Proof Silver Dollar to his legacy of innovation and life-long commitment to science.
Born in Scotland, Bell settled with his family in Brantford, Ontario, where he developed a passion for problem-solving early, which sparked his interest in science. After inventing the telephone in 1876, he later built an estate near Baddeck on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. There, he collaborated on more innovations, such as the Silver Dart, Canada’s first powered airplane, and futuristic hydrofoil marine craft that blazed the waters of Bras D’Or Lake.
This year’s Proof Silver Dollar features a word-art profile of Bell speaking into his breakthrough invention that forever changed global communications. The creative assortment of words that describe aspects of his personal life and character, as well as his many innovations, create a revealing portrait of one of the world’s greatest inventors. This exceptional coin, along with the 2022 Fine Silver Proof Set featuring the exact artistic rendition of Bell, can be ordered from the Mint today.
The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for minting and distributing Canada’s circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints globally, offering a wide range of specialized, high-quality coinage products and related services internationally.
Source: Royal Canadian Mint
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:35 PM | View the original post
February 1, 2022
Flipboard Joins Forces With Communities for its Photography Destination: Zenfolio, History Club, PhotowalksTV
Photo: Flipboard kicks off a new partnership with Zenfolio, an online community of 500,000 professional photographers. Zenfolio brings its quality content for photographers to Flipboard while offering its members new ways to broaden the reach of their portfolios. It is the latest in a string of community-focused collaborations Flipboard is engaging in to bolster its destination for photography enthusiasts, including History Club and PhotowalksTV.
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., January 31, 2022 — Today, Flipboard kicks off a new partnership with Zenfolio, an online community of 500,000 professional photographers that showcase their commercial work to sell their photos and services. Zenfolio brings its vast library of quality content for photographers to Flipboard while offering its members new ways to broaden the reach of their portfolios. It is the latest in a string of community-focused collaborations Flipboard is engaging in to bolster its destination for photography enthusiasts.
Flipboard also joined efforts with History Club, Jason Steinhauer’s famous club on Clubhouse, for a new cross-platform conversation series about history and photography. Clubhouse provides the audio experience, and Flipboard houses companion collections, curated by Steinhauer, that allow listeners to go deeper on each subject in their own time. The following conversation will take place on February 24 about civil rights photography, and the topic for March 24 is women’s suffrage photography.
Moreover, Flipboard is working with PhotowalksTV, a streaming travel photography series on YouTube hosted by former USA TODAY columnist Jefferson Graham. Besides sponsoring the third season of PhotowalksTV, Flipboard co-hosted an in-person photo walk for photo enthusiasts in San Francisco that got so many signups that Flipboard added a second session for the overflow. Participants shared their photos to a Group Magazine on Flipboard, creating a collection of images of each walk.
• Photography Community on Flipboard
Collaborations with community members are an essential part of the Photography destination on Flipboard, which 9.1 million people follow. For instance, Flipboard’s The Shot newsletter for photography enthusiasts has welcomed dozens of photographers and photography experts as guest curators, including Phil Penman, Tyler Stalman, and Marco Secchi. Anyone can sign up for this newsletter.
Furthermore, travel and portrait photographer Erin Douglas starts as Flipboard’s next Photographer in Residence tomorrow, contributing to curating industry news, gear reviews, tutorials, and photographs from creators worldwide. She’s following the footsteps of Ryan Mense and Anete Lusina, both PetaPixel writers who served as Flipboard’s first residents. Flipboard’s Residency Program is a paid, rotating position that brings experts in-house every three months to share their expertise with the community.
Flipboard is an award-winning curation platform where people stay informed and inspired. On Flipboard, quality articles, videos, podcasts, and products are curated every day for millions of people worldwide. It is a platform that lets people spend time on their interests, develop a more profound understanding of issues, and share the best ideas with others by collecting them into their own Flipboard Magazines and Storyboards.
Source: Flipboard
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:19 PM | View the original post
January 28, 2022
Las Vegas Man Sells USA's First Silver Dollar for $12 Million to GreatCollections
- California buyer sets record for the world’s most valuable silver coin and the second-highest price ever paid for any rare coin.
Photo: Believed by many rare coin researchers to be the first silver dollar struck by the United States Mint, this 1794-dated dollar has been purchased for a record $12 million by GreatCollections Coin Auctions of Irvine, California from Las Vegas, Nevada collector Bruce Morelan. Image credit: GreatCollections Coin Auctions.
IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 28, 2022 — A Las Vegas, Nevada resident has sold his prized possession, a superb condition silver dollar made in 1794. Many rare coin experts believe it is the first silver dollar ever struck by the United States Mint. It has been purchased for a record $12 million by GreatCollections Coin Auctions of Irvine, California.
- George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Jefferson may have seen it.
Vegas business executive Bruce Morelan paid $10,016,875 for the acclaimed rare coin in 2013, a record at the time, and exhibited it across the country and in Europe. One of the coin’s previous owners was Amon G. Carter Sr. (1879-1955) of Texas, a former Fort Worth Star-Telegram newspaper publisher.
Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, said, “Because of its sharpness of detail, researchers believe this coin was especially struck, perhaps as a presentation of the country’s first dollar coin. President George Washington, Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton, and then-Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, who oversaw the young United States Mint, may have seen this coin because of its significance. Without question, this is America’s most coveted silver dollar, a national numismatic treasure. It gave me chills closing the transaction for this piece of history.”
Intended to help replace Spanish, English, Dutch, and French coins commonly in circulation in the USA’s post-Colonial era, the United States Mint delivered a total of 1,758 silver dollars made in Philadelphia on a hand-turned coining press to government officials in October 1794.
“Only about 140 still survive, and this 1794 silver dollar is the only known specimen-striking, substantially better than the examples in the Smithsonian Institution’s National Numismatic Collection and the American Numismatic Association museum,” said Russell.
The front of the dollar depicts 1794 with a symbolic female representation of liberty and the word LIBERTY. The design on the back is an eagle surrounded by a wreath and the words, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Experts authenticated the coin at Professional Coin Grading Service and designated it as a specially-made specimen strike. They graded it as a great, mint state 66 on the numismatic grading scale of 1 to 70. John Albanese, founder of Certified Acceptance Corporation in Far Hills, New Jersey, negotiated the sale transaction with GreatCollections on behalf of Morelan.
Morelan, 60, began collecting at the age of six. “Coins are in my blood, and the 1794 dollar was a lifelong dream,” he stated. “I’m truly blessed to have owned it and hope the new owner has as much joy, pride, and satisfaction as I did.”
“This 1794 silver dollar was the world’s most valuable rare coin for nearly a decade after Morelan purchased it for $10 million in 2013. At its latest sale price of $12 million, it is the world’s most valuable silver coin and now the second most valuable rare coin of any kind. Last year’s $18.9 million sales of the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (U.S. $20 denomination) gold coin set the new record,” explained Russell. He exhibited that gold piece at the 2021 Chicago World’s Fair of Money on behalf of its anonymous new owner.
GreatCollections is an auction house for certified coins and banknotes, handling both private transactions and public auctions from start to finish. Since its founding in 2010, GreatCollections has successfully auctioned over 995,000 certified coins, making it one of the leading accredited coin companies in the United States, with annual sales in 2021 exceeding $235 million.
Source: GreatCollections
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:16 PM | View the original post
January 22, 2022
Armani Beauty announces Tessa Thompson as the Newest Beauty Face.
Photo: Tessa Thompson for Armani beauty by Mikael Jansson.
PARIS, Jan. 21, 2022 — Armani beauty has announced American actress Tessa Thompson as the newest face. Thompson will feature in both the campaigns for the iconic LUMINOUS SILK FOUNDATION and the new LIP POWER, shot by Swedish photographer Mikael Jansson.
According to Armani, its LUMINOUS SILK FOUNDATION is the first expression of its philosophy of perfecting the complexion with the lightest touch. It comes in a range of 40 colors to suit every skin tone. LIP POWER is a long-wear satin lipstick formulated with protective, comfortable oils and high-intensity pigments to deliver vivid color with all-day wear, comfort, and a lightweight feel. In addition, its innovative drop-shaped bullet allows for easy application and precise, defined lines.
“My idea of beauty applies to every woman as it enhances her personality and uniqueness. Tessa Thompson struck me with the radiant energy she exudes, the deep calmness of her way of being. I am delighted to be able to work with her and express a new facet of the feminine kaleidoscope of Armani beauty”, said Giorgio Armani.
Tessa Thompson added: “Our ideas around what is beautiful, culturally, are shifting and becoming more inclusive. What I love about Armani is how it empowers any woman to feel her best self.”
Born in Los Angeles, Thompson started in the theater then had minor roles in television before establishing her name in the film. Her first notable breakout film role was “Dear White People” in 2014, followed by Ava DuVernay’s 2014 film “Selma.” In 2019, Thompson appeared on the cover of TIME magazine as the Leader of the Next Generation. In 2020, Thompson co-starred in “Sylvie’s Love,” which she also produced. Thompson has most recently won acclaim for her role as Irene Redfield in Rebecca Hall’s 1920s-set film “Passing,” released in November 2021. Alongside her acting career, in 2021, Thompson launched her own production company, Viva Maude.
Tessa Thompson joins Armani beauty alongside actresses Cate Blanchett, Zhong Chuxi, Adria Arjona, Alice Pagani, and Greta Ferro; actors Ryan Reynolds, Jackson Yee, and Nicholas Hoult; and models Barbara Palvin, Madisin Rian, and Valentina Sampaio. Each Armani beauty face, in its unique way, incarnates Giorgio Armani’s vision of beauty.
Armani beauty delivers textured make-up, skincare formulated from pioneering science, and fragrances created with rare ingredients. The company says its make-up line enhances natural beauty, revealing rather than hiding, and real people and their needs inspire it.
Source: Armani Beauty
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:38 AM | View the original post
January 15, 2022
U.S. Institute of Peace Nominations are Open for the 2022 Women Building Peace Award
• The annual award recognizes women peacebuilders from conflict-affected countries.
WASHINGTON, January 13, 2022 — The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) has announced that nominations are open for the 2022 Women Building Peace Award. This prestigious annual award honors women building peace in countries impacted by violent conflict.
The nominations period will run until February 14, 2022. USIP will recognize the awardee at a ceremony in October 2022.
Countless women risk their lives to create peace in their communities, leading movements for justice and inclusivity despite often being overlooked in their efforts. USIP said it is committed to doing more to support and celebrate these women and the impact they have as agents of peace. USIP invites organizations and people across the globe to take part in identifying and honoring exceptional women who have dedicated their lives to peace.
USIP strongly encourages nominations for women who have not been previously recognized for their peacebuilding work. USIP will review the nominations on the following criteria:
Commitment to Peace: A woman who shows a commitment to peace through her work to prevent or resolve conflict nonviolently in a fragile or conflict-affected country or region.
Exceptional Leadership: A woman who embodies outstanding leadership through her vision and innovation and has earned the respect of others in the pursuit of peace.
Outstanding Practitioner: A woman who is a peacebuilding practitioner and works with members of local, national, or international communities in an inclusive and participatory manner.
Substantial Impact: A woman whose peacebuilding work has led to tangible results.
Women Building Peace Council, a group of distinguished experts who advise USIP on matters of gender and peacebuilding, will choose the 2022 award winner.
Previous Women Building Peace Award recipients include Josephine Ekiru of Kenya and Rita Lopidia of South Sudan. USIP has recognized nineteen women as finalists for the award since its inception in 2019.
The United States Institute of Peace is a national, nonpartisan, independent Institute founded by Congress and dedicated to the proposition that a world without violent conflict is possible, practical, and essential for the U.S. and global security. The Institute works with local partners to prevent, mitigate, and resolve violent conflict in conflict zones abroad. In addition, USIP works with governments and civil societies to build local capacities to manage conflict peacefully to reduce future crises and the need for costly interventions. The Institute pursues its mission by linking research, policy, training, analysis, and direct action to support those working to build a more peaceful, inclusive world.
Source: United States Institute of Peace
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:12 AM | View the original post
January 13, 2022
New One-of-a-Kind World Citizenship Report Gives Switzerland Top Spot with Asian Countries Not Far Behind
Photo: The top-scoring countries in the World Citizenship Report (WCR).
LONDON, Jan. 12, 2022 — CS Global Partners, one of the world’s leading government advisory and marketing firms, has released its much-anticipated World Citizenship Report (WCR). The WCR showcases the World Citizenship Index (WCI), a unique tool that compares world citizenships from the perspective of a global citizen. The index’s methodology evaluates 187 jurisdictions across five key motivators defining citizenship for the global citizen.
Reliance was placed on official statistics to evaluate a score for the defined motivators of Safety and Security, Quality of Life, Economic Opportunity, Global Mobility, and Financial Freedom. Backed by research from leading data banks, interviews, and a survey undertaken by over 500 wealthy investors, the WCR looks beyond passport strength and emphasizes pivotal factors that play a role in choosing the proper second citizenship.
Micha Emmett, the CEO of CS Global Partners, said that the WCR stands apart from other reports in the industry. Because it “examines which countries offer the most benefits for global citizens, particularly in a post-COVID world where those that have the means are consistently searching for greater opportunities and better protection.”
“We wanted to capture what truly concerns and affects a global citizen,” she said. “When there are options to gain a second or third citizenship, the first question in a High-net-worth individual (HNWI) mind is ‘where is the next place to be associated with?’”
“High-net-worth individuals must consider a myriad of factors when deciding something as monumental as where to obtain second citizenship and build a second home. While passport strength is, of course, an important component, it is also one that is subject to the greatest change as evidenced by pandemic-related travel restrictions,” she added.
Results show Switzerland scoring the highest with 88.1, followed by Denmark (88.0) in second place and Finland, Norway and Sweden tied for third (86.9). Notably, global superpowers such as the United States did not rank in the top ten, symbolizing a significant shift in what these economic giants can tangibly offer the global elite. Comparatively, Asia emerged as a hub for economic prosperity due to its business advantages, particularly Japan, ranked sixth, and Singapore, ranked seventh.
Aside from analyzing the performance of countries, the WCR looks at ways HNWIs protect and grow their wealth. It includes implementing an effective financial plan that considers inheritance and wealth taxes and investing in emerging valuable assets like cryptocurrency.
The report finds that citizenship by investment (CBI) is also an effective tool for the world’s wealthiest, and it has become a trend exacerbated during the pandemic. CBI offers an alternative and time-effective solution for those who do not have a marriage, descent, or naturalization attachment to other countries. It ultimately enables applicants to obtain a second citizenship, often within three to four months, without any former ties to the nation, as long as they can pass a multi-tiered vetting procedure.
According to the report, entrepreneurs and business people actively sought investments that stood the test of time during the thick of lockdowns. While predicting the future isn’t possible, keeping abreast of global trends has enabled many HNWIs and global citizens to identify opportunities in places they may not have considered before. The WCR aims to bring these trends to light and make the second citizenship process simpler by compiling relevant data that most concerns affluent individuals and their families.
Source: CS Global Partners
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:30 AM | View the original post
The Coca‑Cola Company lights Burj Khalifa to introduce a new Global Brand philosophy and visual identity to the Middle East.
’ Real Magic,’ Coca‑Cola’s first new global philosophy since 2016, and a new perspective on its iconic logo, both revealed during a stunning light show.
Coca-Cola has built the philosophy around crucial lessons learned over the last 18 months: that we can find the magic all around us when we come together in unexpected moments that elevate every day into the extraordinary. It also acknowledges the many contradictions experienced as new generations find harmony and human connection in a virtual and divided world.
“Magic isn’t about the unbelievable or mystical, but about those moments of real human connection. Real Magic can happen at any given moment and can be extraordinary,” said Tarun Sabhlok, Region Marketing Director - the Middle East at The Coca‑Cola Company. “The Real Magic philosophy is rooted in the belief that differences can make the world a more exciting place. So there was no better place to celebrate the Real Magic of humanity than in the most diverse nation in the world, on the most iconic landmark in the region - the Burj Khalifa,” he added.
Source: The Coca‑Cola Company
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Magic On Burj Khalifa
Magic is happening all around us. You have to take a look.
A button was pressed that lit the Burj Khalifa bringing real Magic to all those around that day.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:30 AM | View the original post
January 9, 2022
View of UN Headquarters in Snow
Photo: A view of UN Headquarters in snow. January 7, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Photo: A view of the Visitors Plaza at UN Headquarters in snow. January 7, 2022. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Mark Garten.
Source: United Nations, New York
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:39 AM | View the original post
December 30, 2021
New Lamborghini Countach LPI 800−4 Posters for the Walls of Teenagers
A poster collection that celebrates the success of an icon.
Photo: COUNTACH LPI 800-4 BY ANDREAS WANNERSTEDT
Photo: COUNTACH LPI 800-4 BY OMAR AQIL
Photo: COUNTACH LPI 800-4 BY LRNZ (Lorenzo Ceccotti)
Photo: COUNTACH LPI 800-4 BY YEGOR ZHULDYBIN
Sant’ Agata Bolognese (Italy), December 29, 2021 - Lamborghini has released a series of new Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 posters. The posters feature the limited edition super sports car, presented at Pebble Beach in August 2021 on the original Countach’s 50th anniversary.
The futuristic limited edition Countach LPI, 800-4, continues to be a source of inspiration, reflecting its predecessor’s non-conformist iconic status that defined a new horizon for automotive design. The image of the original Countach powerfully denoted the passion of the most refined car connoisseurs, as well as the teenagers of a generation choosing a Countach poster for their walls.
This poster collection has reinterpreted the love for the Countach’s timeless lines, emphasizing how image alone can stimulate creativity. The five posters by Automobili Lamborghini each bear the signature of artists and illustrators specializing in 3D and digital works, feeding the Countach myth and confirming the immortality of the icon.
The contributing designers from around the world bring a particular dimension and interpretation of the Countach LPI 800-4 as a future icon.
Omar Aqil, a Pakistani 3D illustrator and CGI artist, places the Countach in the center of the incredible technological evolution of the last 50 years.
Yegor Zhuldybin, a young Russian creator specializing in surreal digital collages, explores the integration of the new Countach into today’s world, balancing between the modern incarnation of the iconic model and the celebration of Lamborghini’s history.
Shy. Studio, an independent motion graphics studio specializing in 3D animations and still life, is inspired by the influence of the vintage 1980s posters, reproducing the legendary Countach design in a modern setting mixed with abstract, tactile elements and objects that seem to come from another world.
Andreas Wannerstedt, a Swedish artist known for his 3D works featuring hypnotic looped animations, proposes a reinterpretation that stages the encounter between nature and the most advanced human technology: the delicate shades of an imaginary sunset meet the clean lines of the Countach LPI 800-4.
LRNZ (Lorenzo Ceccotti): graphic designer, motion graphics creator, animator, and illustrator highlights the extraordinary visual qualities of the new Countach, focusing on extreme minimalism and high-tech vibrations.
Source: Lamborghini
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:47 PM | View the original post
December 21, 2021
Ducati MotoE bike takes to the track for the first time on the Misano circuit.
The Ducati prototype that will race in the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup has completed its first laps on the track at Misano.
Michele Pirro, official Ducati rider and test rider took part in the tests.
Photos: Ducati MotoE prototype. Images provided by & copyright © DUCATI.
Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 20 December 2021 - The Ducati MotoE bike took to the track first at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Starting from the 2023 season, the Borgo Panigale motorcycle manufacturer will be the sole supplier of motorcycles for the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup, the electric class of the MotoGP™ World Championship.
The electric motorcycle prototype, code-named “V21L”, is the result of the joint work of the Ducati Corse team and the Ducati R&D engineers. Roberto Canè, Ducati eMobility Director, led the team, and the bike was taken out on track by Michele Pirro, a professional rider and Ducati test rider since 2013. He evaluated the technical characteristics and potential of Ducati’s first electric motorcycle.
Roberto Canè, Ducati eMobility Director: “We are experiencing a truly extraordinary moment. I find it hard to believe it is real and still not a dream! The first electric Ducati on the track is exceptional not only for its uniqueness but also for the type of undertaking: challenging both for its performance objectives and its extremely short timescales. Precisely for this reason, the work of the whole team dedicated to the project has been incredible, and today’s result repays us for the efforts made in recent months. We are certainly not finished yet; indeed, we know that the road ahead is still very long, but in the meantime, we have laid a first important ‘brick.’”
Michele Pirro, Ducati test rider: “Testing the MotoE prototype on the circuit was a great thrill because it marks the beginning of an important chapter in Ducati history. The bike is light and already has a good balance. Furthermore, the throttle connection in the first opening phase and the ergonomics are very similar to a MotoGP bike. If it weren’t for the silence and for the fact that in this test, we decided to limit the power output to just 70% of performance, I could easily have imagined that I was riding my bike.”
The most critical challenges in developing an electric racing motorcycle remain related to the batteries’ size, weight, and range. Ducati’s goal is to make electric motorcycles that are high-performance and characterized by their lightness available to all FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup participants.
Ducati’s experience in the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup will be fundamental support for product R&D. The goal is to create a Ducati electric vehicle for road use as soon as the technology allows it. Sporty, light, exciting, and able to satisfy all enthusiasts.
Source: DUCATI
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Three years waiting for a flag-to-flag race and it didn't disappoint!!! 💥
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) December 19, 2021
Check out the top five moments from a frenetic #FrenchGP! 🇫🇷#MotoGP pic.twitter.com/jtirNBPbel
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:30 AM | View the original post
December 15, 2021
UNESCO inscribes ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Photos: Durga Puja inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Images Credit: UNESCO; Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
New Delhi, December 15, 2021 — In an important announcement, the Intergovernmental Committee of UNESCO’s 2003 Convention on Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage has inscribed ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during its 16th session being held at Paris, France from 13th to 18th December 2021. The Committee commended Durga Puja for its initiatives to involve marginalized groups and individuals and women in their participation in safeguarding the element.
As a ten-day celebration, Durga Puja represents the collective worship of the Hindu Goddess Durga. During this time, masterfully designed clay models of the Goddess are worshipped in “pandals” or pavilions where communities get together and celebrate. In addition, several folk pieces of music, culinary, craft, and performing arts traditions add to the dynamism of this celebration.
While Durga Puja is one of the most important festivals of West Bengal, India, it is widely observed across the country and in major cities of the world by the Bengali diaspora.
Durga Puja celebrates feminine divinity and a consummate expression of dance, music, crafts, rituals, practices, culinary and cultural aspects. The festival transcends the boundaries of caste, creed, and economic classes and joins the people together in its celebration.
With the inscription of Durga Puja in Kolkata, India now has 14 intangible cultural heritage elements on the prestigious UNESCO Representative List of ICH of Humanity. The recent ICH elements that saw inscriptions are Kumbh Mela (2017) and Yoga (2016).
India is a signatory of the 2003 UNESCO Convention, which aims for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Heritage and traditions and living expression. Intangible cultural heritage means the practices, representations, words, knowledge, skills - as well as the instruments, objects, artifacts, and cultural spaces associated with them that communities, groups, and, in some cases, individuals recognize as a part of their cultural inheritance.
Sources: UNESCO; Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:01 PM | View the original post
December 13, 2021
TIME Names the 2021 Person of the Year: Elon Musk
NEW YORK, December 13, 2021 — Today, TIME named Elon Musk the 2021 Person of the Year.
TIME Editor-in-Chief and CEO Edward Felsenthal write, “Person of the Year is a marker of influence, and few individuals have had more influence than Musk on life on Earth, and potentially life off Earth too. In 2021, Musk emerged not just as the world’s richest person but also as perhaps the richest example of a massive shift in our society.”
Felsenthal continues, “Musk’s rise coincides with broader trends of which he and his fellow technology magnates are part cause and part effect: the continuing decline of traditional institutions in favor of individuals; government dysfunction that has delivered more power and responsibility to business; and chasms of wealth and opportunity. In an earlier era, ambitions on the scale of interplanetary travel were the ultimate collective undertaking, around which Presidents rallied nations….For creating solutions to an existential crisis, for embodying the possibilities and the perils of the age of tech titans, for driving society’s most daring and disruptive transformations, Elon Musk is TIME’s 2021 Person of the Year.”
In his letter to readers, Felsenthal writes, ” Elon Musk’s spacefaring adventures are a direct line from the very first Person of the Year, Charles Lindbergh, whom the editors selected in 1927 to commemorate his historic first solo transatlantic airplane flight over the Atlantic. For us at TIME, it has also been a year of building on the past to forge the future.”
In the cover story, which includes an exclusive interview with Musk, TIME’s Molly Ball, Jeffrey Kluger, and Alejandro de la Garza, write, “His startup rocket company, SpaceX, has leapfrogged Boeing and others to own America’s spacefaring future. His car company, Tesla, controls two-thirds of the multibillion-dollar electric-vehicle market it pioneered and is valued at a cool $1 trillion. That has made Musk, with a net worth of more than $250 billion, the richest private citizen in history, at least on paper. In addition, he’s a player in robots and solar, cryptocurrency and climate, brain-computer implants to stave off the menace of artificial intelligence and underground tunnels to move people and freight at super speeds.”
The December 27, 2021 - January 3, 2022, Person of the Year issue of TIME goes on sale on Friday, December 17.
Source: TIME
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:26 PM | View the original post
Miss Universe India, Harnaaz Sandhu, crowned 70th Miss Universe in Global Anniversary Televised Event.
• Three-Hour Special included inspiring performances by powerhouse female musical artists JOJO and Noa Kirel.
Photo: Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe India 2021, poses for a portrait after being crowned Miss Universe after the 70th Miss Universe Competition on December 12, 2021, at the Universe Arean in Eilat, Israel. The new winner will move to New York City, where she will live during her reign and become a spokesperson for various causes alongside The Miss Universe Organization. Photographer: Benjamin Askinas. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe India 2021, is crowned Miss Universe by Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza after the 70th Miss Universe Competition on December 12, 2021, at the Universe Arena in Eilat, Israel. The new winner will move to New York City, where she will live during her reign and become a spokesperson for various causes alongside The Miss Universe Organization. Photographer: Benjamin Askinas. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
ISRAEL (December 12, 2021) - Miss Universe India Harnaaz Sandhu was crowned Miss Universe live on FOX and Telemundo tonight from Eilat, Israel. Harnaaz will use her time as Miss Universe to advocate for menstrual equity through public administration.
After a two-week-long visit to Jerusalem and Eilat, a beautiful National Costume Competition, rounds of interviews, a preliminary competition, and the live Finals, Harnaaz was crowned with the iconic Mouawad “Power of Unity” Crown. It was presented to her by outgoing Miss Universe Andrea Meza. Harnaaz will move to New York City in the new year to represent the brand and various philanthropic organizations during her reign.
“This has been an experience of a lifetime!” said Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu. “The past three weeks have been a dream getting to know these exceptional women, and I’m honored to be chosen among them to represent this inspiring organization. I hope to serve the global community to the best of my ability in the year to come.”
Miss Universe India, Harnaaz Sandhu, credits her mother, who broke generations of patriarchy to become a successful gynecologist, for inspiring her to follow her dreams. Driven to support women similarly, Harnaaz grew up working with her mother at health camps, educating women about their health and menstrual hygiene. Deeply conscious of the privilege her mother’s struggles have gifted her, Harnaaz strongly advocates for women’s empowerment today, particularly their constitutional rights to education, careers, and freedom of choice. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Public Administration. Harnaaz is also an actress and enjoys yoga, dancing, cooking, horse riding, and playing chess in her free time.
“It’s been exceptional getting to know the contestants through our shared admiration of the history and beauty of our host country these past two weeks,” stated Paula M. Shugart, President of the Miss Universe Organization. “I’m thrilled to have Miss India Harnaaz Sandhu represent Miss Universe this year, as her passion for helping educate women and fight for their freedoms emulates all the crown stands for.”
The 70th MISS UNIVERSE competition aired live from a bespoke venue in Eilat, Israel. Legendary entertainer Steve Harvey hosted it, along with backstage correspondents, Emmy Award-winning TV personality and style expert Carson Kressley (“RuPaul’s Drag Race,” “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy”) and TV presenter and former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst (“Extra”).
One of the evening’s many highlights included the powerful performances from GRAMMY Award-winning artist, JoJo and Israeli singer Noa Kirel. In addition, women representing 80 countries competed to become the next Miss Universe in this anniversary spectacular. Selection committee members for the 70th annual show included:
- International supermodel, actress, and businesswoman Adriana Lima.
- Model, television host, and Miss Universe 2016 Iris Mittenaere.
- Beauty entrepreneur and model Lori Harvey.
- Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela.
- Filipino actress Marian Rivera.
- Actress, author, TV host & Telemundo star Adamari Lopez.
- ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ actress, Rena Sofer.
Source: Miss Universe Organization, New York.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
The new Miss Universe is…India!!!! #MISSUNIVERSE pic.twitter.com/DTiOKzTHl4
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 13, 2021
FINAL STATEMENT: India. #MISSUNIVERSE
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 13, 2021
The 70th MISS UNIVERSE Competition is airing LIVE around the world from Eilat, Israel on @foxtv pic.twitter.com/wwyMhsAyvd
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:28 AM | View the original post
December 6, 2021
Miss Universe Contestants in Eilat, Israel for the Sunday, December 12 Contest
Photo: Contestants in “Fashion by Portia and Scarlett” on stage during the opening of the MISS UNIVERSE Preliminary Competition at the Universe Arena in Eilat, Israel on December 10, 2021. Tune in to the LIVE telecast on FOX and Telemundo on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET to see who will become the next Miss Universe. Photographer: Benjamin Askinas. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Kawtar Benhalima, Miss Universe Morocco 2021, on stage during the National Costume Show at the Universe Arena in Eilat, Israel, on December 10, 2021. The National Costume Show is an international tradition where contestants display an authentic costume of choice that best represents the culture of their home country. The Miss Universe contestants are touring, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe finals on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET. Photographer: Benjamin Askinas. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Shiyin Yang, Miss Universe China 2021, on stage during the National Costume Show at the Universe Arena in Eilat, Israel, on December 10, 2021. The National Costume Show is an international tradition where contestants display an authentic costume of choice that best represents the culture of their home country. The Miss Universe contestants are touring, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe finals on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET. Photographer: Benjamin Askinas. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe India 2021, on stage during the National Costume Show at the Universe Arena in Eilat, Israel, on December 10, 2021. The National Costume Show is an international tradition where contestants display an authentic costume of choice that best represents the culture of their home country. The Miss Universe contestants are touring, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe finals on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET. Photographer: Benjamin Askinas. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe India 2021, enjoys the morning swimming with the dolphins in Eilat, Israel. The Miss Universe delegates are touring, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe crown before the show airs LIVE on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET on FOX and Telemundo. Photographer: BENJAMIN ASKINAS. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Essi Unkuri, Miss Universe Finland 2021, starred in a fashion show showcasing Haboydem and sustainable dresses. After the show, the delegates celebrated all night long! The Miss Universe delegates are touring, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe crown before the show airs LIVE from Eilat, Israel, on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET on FOX and Telemundo. Photographer: BENJAMIN ASKINAS. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Sofia Arapogianni, Miss Universe Greece 2021, poses while spending the day at Ein Karem in Jerusalem, Israel. The Miss Universe delegates are touring the sights, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe crown before the show airs LIVE from Eilat, Israel, on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET on FOX and Telemundo. Photographer: BENJAMIN ASKINAS. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Photo: Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe India 2021, goes on an adventure in the desert while exploring Eilat, Israel! The Miss Universe delegates are touring the sights, filming, rehearsing, and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe crown before the show airs LIVE from Eilat, Israel, on Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 PM ET on FOX and Telemundo. Photographer: BENJAMIN ASKINAS. Image provided by & copyright © Miss Universe Organization, New York.
Source: Miss Universe Organization, New York.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Get to know Miss Universe Paraguay Nadia Ferreira: entrepreneur and business owner.
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 9, 2021
Download the Miss Universe app to vote your favorite delegate into the semifinals at the 70th MISS UNIVERSE Competition. ✨
First vote FREE! pic.twitter.com/s6fxgpOEAR
Get to know Miss Universe India Harnaaz Sandhu: passionate about women's rights and acting.
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 8, 2021
Download the Miss Universe app to vote your favorite delegate into the semifinals at the 70th MISS UNIVERSE Competition. ✨
First vote FREE! pic.twitter.com/xfWOIuCuho
Get to know Miss Universe Russia Ralina Arabova: passionate flute player whose goal is to experience different cultures and countries.
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 10, 2021
Download the Miss Universe app to vote your favorite delegate into the semifinals at the 70th MISS UNIVERSE Competition. ✨
First vote FREE! pic.twitter.com/AIOqC0IVs9
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:33 PM | View the original post
December 3, 2021
Gita Gopinath to Be IMF's New First Deputy Managing Director
Photo: The International Monetary Fund’s HQ1 and HQ2 buildings sit amid the season’s first snow. December 16, 2020. Washington, DC, United States. IMF Photo/ Cory Hancock.
Photo: Chief Economist Gita Gopinath provides the World Economic Outlook during the 2021 Annual Meetings at the International Monetary Fund. October 12, 2021. Washington, DC, United States. IMF Photo/ Cory Hancock.
Washington, DC, December 2, 2021: Today, the IMF said that First Deputy Managing Director (FDMD) Geoffrey Okamoto would leave the Fund early next year. Gita Gopinath, currently the IMF’s Chief Economist, is proposed to be the Fund’s new First Deputy Managing Director. Kristalina Georgieva, the IMF’s Managing Director, announced, “Both Geoffrey and Gita are tremendous colleagues — I am sad to see Geoffrey go. But, at the same time, I am delighted that Gita has decided to stay and accept the new responsibility of being our FDMD.” Ms. Gopinath was to return to her academic position at Harvard University in January 2022.
Ms. Georgieva added: “Especially given that the pandemic has led to an increase in the scale and scope of the macroeconomic challenges facing our member countries. I believe that Gita — universally recognized as one of the world’s leading macroeconomists — has precisely the expertise that we need for the FDMD role at this point. Indeed, her particular skill set—combined with her years of experience at the Fund as Chief Economist—make her uniquely well qualified. She is the right person at the right time.”
Ms. Georgieva noted that Ms. Gopinath’s contribution to the Fund’s work has already been exceptional, especially her “intellectual leadership in helping the global economy and the Fund to navigate the twists and turns of the worst economic crisis of our lives.” She also said that Ms. Gopinath—the first female Chief Economist in IMF history—has garnered respect and admiration across our member countries and the institution, with a proven track record in leading analytically rigorous work on a broad range of issues.”
Ms. Georgieva observed that under Ms. Gopinath’s leadership, the IMF’s Research Department had gone from “strength to strength.” For example, the IMF Research Department now does multilateral surveillance via The World Economic Outlook, a new analytical approach to help countries respond to international capital flows. Ms. Georgieva also praised Ms. Gopinath’s recent work on a Pandemic Plan to end the COVID-19 crisis by setting targets to vaccinate the world at a feasible cost.
On her new appointment, Ms. Gopinath said:
“I am honored and humbled to become the IMF’s next FDMD. Over the past three years, I have had the opportunity to experience first-hand and be a part of the hugely important work done by the IMF at the intersection of rigorous economic analysis and public policy. It is gratifying to see the positive impact of our work on economies and the lives of many people worldwide. As the pandemic continues its grip on us, the work of the Fund has never been more critical. I am very thankful to Kristalina and the Board for this opportunity, and so look forward to collaborating closely with all the incredibly brilliant and committed colleagues at the Fund, working with whom has been an absolute privilege.”
Source: IMF
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:36 AM | View the original post
November 20, 2021
All New Breitling Boutique New York Opens with a Star-Studded Celebration
New York, November 20, 2021 — Breitling celebrated the reopening of its Madison Avenue flagship boutique after a complete redesign to the brand’s industrial-loft concept. The event, held in the heart of Manhattan, brought together global stars and Breitling enthusiasts from around the world.
Adding their star power to the event were Breitling Spotlight Squad members actor and producer Charlize Theron and ballet dancer Misty Copeland, who co-hosted with Breitling CEO Georges Kern. US ambassadors for Breitling and friends of the brand also turned out to see the new boutique unveiled. The guest list included former American football quarterback and host of The NFL Today Boomer Esiason, American professional triathlete Ben Hoffman, CBS Golf and NFL reporter Amanda Balionis, Grammy Award-winning musician Eric Harland, astronaut Scott Kelly, and professional golfer Gary Woodland.
Breitling CEO Georges Kern commented: “Forget all your notions of how a watch showroom looks. With this boutique redesign, we’ve created a relaxed, uplifting, and inclusive environment that you’ll feel the moment you step through the door. By redefining the whole premise of the retail experience, we’re achieving our vision of being the undisputed leader of neo-luxury.”
Source: Breitling
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:11 AM | View the original post
November 19, 2021
Super AVI, the Newest Watch Series from Breitling
Super AVI, the newest watch series from Breitling, is a celebration of aviation history with designs inspired by the original 1953 “Co-Pilot” Ref. 765 AVI aviator’s watch and four legendary planes: the North American Aviation P-51 Mustang, the Vought F4U Corsair, the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, and the de Havilland Mosquito.
“This collection embodies that sense of nostalgia for the early days of aviation when pilots relied on their watches as onboard tools,” says Breitling CEO Georges Kern. “But you don’t have to be a pilot or vintage-aircraft buff to appreciate the exceptional craftsmanship and rugged design.”
That pioneering watch is the inspiration for today’s Super AVI, the debut series in Breitling’s Classic AVI collection. Its launch marks nearly a century of aviation timepieces from a brand that has shared some of the field’s finest moments. From brave first takeoffs to the birth of commercial air travel, Breitling’s history is inseparable from that of flight.
• Drawn from Vintage Aviation Aesthetic
The collection comes in five unique versions honoring four powerful and memorable aircraft, whose filigree silhouettes adorn the watches’ sapphire case backs.
The Super AVI P-51 Mustang pays homage to the best all-around fighter plane of its era in two distinct versions: a stainless-steel case with a black dial and gold-brown leather strap and an 18 k red gold version with an anthracite dial and a black leather strap.
The Super AVI Tribute to Vought F4U Corsair features a blue dial, tone-on-tone chronograph counters, and a black leather strap that take their design cues from the distinctive livery of the record-breaking naval aircraft.
The Super AVI Curtiss Warhawk, with its military-green dial, white contrasting chronograph counters, and red accents, plays on its namesake’s famous shark-mouth nose art that gave the plane its unmistakable identity.
The Super AVI Mosquito features a combination polished and satin-brushed black ceramic bezel and a black dial with white contrasting chronograph counters. Its red and orange elements recall the roundels and markings on the versatile plane, dubbed the “Wooden Wonder.”
“Our watchmaking DNA is what dominates here, while the interpretations of the four aircraft give the series its emotion and bold graphic appeal. These elements evoke the spirit of early flight,” says Breitling Creative Director Sylvain Berneron. “We can’t forget that Breitling pioneered aviation tool watches like the Ref. 765 AVI. That heritage is so strong; we had not only to keep it intact but rewrite it for the 21st century.”
Source: Breitling
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Breitling Summit with Breitling CEO Georges Kern
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:57 AM | View the original post
November 13, 2021
Streetfighter V2 and Streetfighter V4 SP: Two New Ducati Models derived from the Successful "Fight Formula."
Building on the success of the V4 model, the Ducati Streetfighter family expands with the introduction of new Streetfighter V2 and Streetfighter V4 SP models.
The Streetfighter V2 truly represents the essence of the “Fighter” attitude. The new gateway to the Streetfighter family is the perfect synthesis between boldness and essentiality.
BOLOGNA, Italy, Nov. 13, 2021 — Ducati expands the Streetfighter family by introducing two new models: the bold and essential Streetfighter V2 and the top-of-the-range Streetfighter V4 SP.
The new Streetfighter V2 is a sports bike with a one-of-a-kind character. It accommodates the needs of riders looking for a motorcycle capable of combining the Panigale V2’s DNA with both the attitude and style of the admired Streetfighter. The result is an intuitive and easy-to-handle motorcycle with the correct dose of power to ensure feisty performance and maximum riding fun.
This project is the reinterpretation of Ducati’s successful “Fight Formula.”
The new Streetfighter V2 is essential and characterized by an intelligent design, which embraces the classic stylistic elements of the Streetfighter V4, starting with the distinctive headlight, which pays homage to the V-shaped DRL typical of Ducati sports bikes and is inspired by the famous grin of the Joker.
A unique Ducati product, the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale with 208 hp, can deliver a torque of 90.4 lb-ft (123 Nm) at 9,500 rpm. It is fitted with the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, which guarantees a better anti-hopping function and greater fluidity during all “off-throttle” stages. However, this racing bike is used only in motorcycle racing closed-course circuits. The law prohibits its operation on public roads.
Source: Ducati North America
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 4:26 PM | View the original post
November 11, 2021
Guardian for International Peace and Security, Gift from Mexico to the United Nations
Photo: A guardian for international peace and security sits on the Visitors Plaza outside UN Headquarters. The guardian is a fusion of jaguar and eagle and donated by the Government of Oaxaca, Mexico. Artists Jacobo and Maria Angeles created it. November 09, 2021. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Manuel ElÃas.
Photo: Alicia Guadalupe Buenrostro Massieu, Deputy Permanent Representative of Mexico to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for November, chairs the Security Council meeting on United Nations peacekeeping operations and Police Commissioners. November 10, 2021. The United States of America. New York. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe.
Source: United Nations
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:35 PM | View the original post
November 9, 2021
Audrey Azoulay Re-elected as the Head of UNESCO with Massive Support.
Photo: UNESCO Director-General, Audrey Azoulay. Image provided by & Copyright © UNESCO/Christelle ALIX.
Paris, November 9, 2021 — Audrey Azoulay was re-elected Tuesday to the post of Director-General of UNESCO with the massive support of the Organization’s 193 Member States.
Ms. Azoulay’s re-election took place in a spirit of consensus with the overwhelming backing of UNESCO Member States, obtaining 155 votes out of a total of 169 ballots cast.
“I see this result as a sign of regained unity within our Organization. Over the last four years, we have been able to restore confidence in UNESCO, and in some respects, this has also been about restoring UNESCO’s confidence in itself. First, we regained serenity by reducing the political tensions that stood in our way and looking for common positions on divisive subjects. We were then able to develop a shared ambition, notably by reconnecting with the tradition of leading major operations in the field,” Audrey Azoulay said.
Over the past four years, UNESCO has undergone a significant modernization process to improve the efficiency of its actions.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while hundreds of millions of children and adolescents lost their right to learn, UNESCO once again proved its ability to establish the Global Education Coalition, which made it possible to ensure educational continuity in 112 countries.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:56 PM | View the original post
