Former Malaysian Prime Minister Greets Participants of the Open Dialogue at NC “Russia”

Moscow, Russia – April 30, 2025 – (SeaPRwire) – Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad greeted participants on the second day of the Open Dialogue “Future of the World: New Platform for Global Growth” during the “Presentation of the Future World” session at the Russia National Centre. Mahathir Mohamad is known as the person who transformed a resource-based country into a leading exporter of high-tech products. The former Malaysian Prime Minister shared his experience with experts and essayists of the Open Dialogue and wished them success in their work. Due to his advanced age, Mahathir Mohamad could not personally attend the Russia National Centre – he turns 100 this year. He delivered his address in digital format. “I would like to thank the National Centre ‘Russia’ for inviting me to speak before you and share my thoughts with the participants of the Open Dialogue, which is being held under the motto ‘Future of the World – New Platform for Global Movement.’ Today, the world is engulfed in instability and uncertainty, both in governance and in economics. Technological progress has given much to humanity, but these achievements have created dangerous weapons. At the same time, the development of science and technology saves many lives. The most interesting development is related to artificial intelligence – AI, which opens up access for humanity to unlimited knowledge in all spheres ever studied or mastered,” emphasised Mahathir Mohamad. The former Malaysian Prime Minister also noted that today’s world changes incredibly fast. Mahathir Mohamad believes that for new technologies to improve human life, it is necessary to educate the young generation to work with them. “Education plays a key role here. If new scientific and technological knowledge is available to all schoolchildren, they will become a powerful tool for a more just and equal society. I believe that we can build a better world in which technology and intelligence, complemented by humanity, will become the foundation of new global growth and a deterrent factor for wars and aggression,” Mahathir Mohamad addressed the participants of the Open Dialogue. The second day of the Open Dialogue continued with panel pitchings featuring experts and essay authors across all four tracks: “Investment in People,” “Investment in Technologies,” “Investment in Environment,” and “Investment in Connectivity.” The international project Open Dialogue “Future of the World. New Platform for Global Growth” takes place at the Russia National Centre from April 28 to 30, 2025. It is attended by international experts from leading analytical centres, including 24 world-class experts, development institutes, higher education, government institutions, business associations, youth organisations, science, and journalism. Authors of the best essays on the world’s future from 42 countries also joined the event. The NC “Russia” expert council selected the works from among 696 essays written in 18 languages. The Open Dialogue participants represent 48 countries (all continents of the Earth). Social Links Telegram: https://t.me/gowithRussia  VK: https://vk.com/gowithrussia  OK.Ru: https://ok.ru/gowithrussia  Dzen.Ru: https://dzen.ru/gowithrussia  Media contact Organization: Russia National Centre Contact: Media team Email: pressa@russia.ru  Website: https://russia.ru/

DataBurning and Vumonic Announce Strategic Partnership for India E-Receipt Data

BEIJING CHINA, Apr 29, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – DataBurning, a leading alternative data and digital solutions provider for financial institutions and corporates, recently announced a strategic partnership with Vumonic Datalabs, a pioneer in e-receipt technology. Under the agreement, DataBurning will serve as the official go-to-market partner for Vumonic's industry-leading India e-receipt panel.The partnership combines Vumonic's proprietary e-receipt technology and extensive India panel with DataBurning's established distribution network and client relationships. Financial institutions and corporations will now have exclusive access to granular spending data covering over 270 companies across India's rapidly growing digital economy.This landmark partnership brings Vumonic's high-frequency, low-latency e-receipt data to investment professionals for the first time. The dataset, delivered with industry-leading accuracy through Vumonic's proprietary processing technology, is designed to meet the exacting standards of hedge funds, quantitative investors, private equity firms, venture capital groups, and major investment banks seeking visibility into India's dynamic market."This partnership represents a significant advancement in alternative data on the Indian market," said Gabriel Appleton, Co-founder of Vumonic Datalabs. "By combining our comprehensive e-receipt technology and data with DataBurning's market reach, we're providing unprecedented visibility into spending patterns across India's digital economy."This marks the first time Vumonic's powerful e-receipt data is being made available to financial firms, following years of development and validation. The company's extensive panel and proprietary parsing technology have until now been reserved for select enterprise clients and internal research.Vumonic's e-receipt panel offers transaction-level insights for major platforms including Zomato, Swiggy, Flipkart, MakeMyTrip, and hundreds more Indian companies. The data provides valuable signals for investors and brands looking to understand market share, growth trends, and spending behavior."We've been searching for a partner that could deliver reliable, granular e-receipt data on India's digital economy," said Joyce Xiang, Co-President of DataBurning's Finance Business Group. "Vumonic's e-receipt panel offers the scale, accuracy, and coverage institutional investors demand for making data-driven investment and strategic decisions."The partnership delivers several key benefits tailored specifically for institutional investors:·          - Institutional-Grade Signal Quality: Transaction data with demonstrated correlation to company performance metrics, ideal for investment modeling- Ultra-Low Latency: Data delivered with minimal lag, critical for time-sensitive investment strategies- Comprehensive Coverage: Transaction-level data for over 270 companies, covering both public equities and private market opportunities- Multi-Frequency Options: Data available in daily, weekly, or monthly cadences to match various investment horizons- Ethical Data Collection: All data collected with explicit user consent and properly anonymized"Vumonic's technology can consistently process millions of complex e-receipts daily with 99.9% accuracy, providing the reliability that institutional investors require," added Appleton. "Our panel's scale and depth offer unprecedented visibility into transaction patterns across India's most dynamic sectors."As part of the collaboration, the companies will jointly host regular webinars showcasing market insights and trends derived from the data. Investors interested in the webinar could register on Databurning website.Founded in 2018, Vumonic has established itself as a leader in e-receipt technology, processing billions of transactions annually while maintaining the highest standards of data privacy and security. The company's proprietary parsing and enrichment technology transforms raw receipt data into structured intelligence.DataBurning, founded in early 2019 and backed by SoftBank Asia, and IDG Capital, has quickly becomes Asia's premier provider of alternative data and digital solutions for financial institutions and corporations. By harnessing AI and other innovative technologies, DataBurning's highly skilled data-science and analyst team turn data into actionable insights, and commentary and fundamental analysis to enhance client’s decision-making.Financial institutions and corporations interested in accessing Vumonic's India e-receipt data should contact DataBurning for more information.Website: https://www.databurning.com/en/Email: market@databurning.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Emphasizes: ‘No Hajj Without a Permit’

RIYADH, Apr 30, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is the official government entity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia responsible for regulating and overseeing the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. Its mandate includes organizing pilgrimage operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims, and enforcing relevant policies. This announcement clarifies the Ministry's position on the mandatory requirement of Hajj permits for domestic pilgrims and Hajj visas for international visitors in order to ensure an orderly and secure pilgrimage experience.The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has affirmed that the performance of Hajj rituals will only be permissible through adherence to the necessary regulations and laws, specifically by obtaining a Hajj permit for domestic pilgrims and a Hajj visa for pilgrims from abroad.The Ministry indicated that this requirement aims to foster a culture of compliance with regulations, which will, in turn, facilitate the Hajj rituals with ease and tranquility. This is being achieved in collaboration with the embassies of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, media offices, and Hajj and Umrah offices in various countries worldwide to ensure comprehensive and effective outreach.Through its continuous efforts, the Ministry seeks to guarantee the smooth, safe, and easy performance of the Hajj pilgrimage by organizing pilgrim numbers, efficiently implementing field plans, and improving the quality of services provided to pilgrims. This contributes to enhancing the Hajj experience and achieving pilgrim satisfaction through strict adherence to the necessary permits.For more information, visit the Ministry's official website: https://www.haj.gov.sa.Contact InformationMinistry of Hajj and UmrahMinistrycare@haj.gov.sa+966920002814SOURCE: Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Melbourne’s Deputy Lord Mayor shares city’s path forward at PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) launch

ROSHENA CAMPBELL’S VISION ALIGNS WITH THE VALUE OF EXCELLENCE CELEBRATED BY PROPERTYGURU’S AWARDS SERIESMELBOURNE, Apr 29, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The 8th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) has officially launched, opening entries for 2025 across expanded categories that showcase the finest of Australia’s thriving real estate markets, from Melbourne and Sydney to Brisbane and beyond.This year’s Awards will shine a spotlight on innovative developments in both established hubs and Australia’s fastest-growing "cities of tomorrow."From Left to right: Karen Kong, Head of Property Lending, Bendigo Bank; Nathanael Kitingan, AMBC Victoria President & Managing Principal, Macpherson Kelley; Ivan Lam, Executive Director, International Business, Charter Keck Cramer; Kathy Johnson, Managing Director, Yarraport Group; Josh Chye, Partner & Head of Tax Consulting, HLB Mann Judd; Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell, City of Melbourne;  Jules Kay, General Manager, PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards & Events; and Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Melbourne Managing Partner, Moray & AgnewThe official launch announcement of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) was held on 9 April at the Melbourne Marriott Hotel during the “Asia Connect: Melbourne” event, with the Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Roshena Campbell, representing the City of Melbourne. The event was jointly organised by PropertyGuru Group and the Australia Malaysia Business Council (AMBC) in Victoria, with support from HLB Mann Judd and the Malaysian Developers Council of Australia (MDCA).Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell, City of MelbourneThe Deputy Lord Mayor’s attendance underscored the role of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards in driving innovation, urban revitalisation, and cross-border investment in Australia’s real estate sector.During her special address at the Asia Connect: Melbourne event, Deputy Lord Mayor Campbell shared the vision for the city’s path forward and strategic focus on long-term development and opportunities for its multicultural communities. She also highlighted the city’s important trade relationship with Asia, as well as the impact of international events such as the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards that promote Melbourne as a great place to invest, study or live, calling it the “destination of choice.”Exceptional liveabilityDeputy Lord Mayor Campbell said: “Melbourne’s exceptional liveability is a drawcard for both domestic and international investors—with world-class sporting, cultural, and dining experiences, lush parks and gardens, and leading education opportunities, it’s no surprise we’re Australia’s fastest-growing city.”She added: "The City of Melbourne is backing quality development like never before—and we welcome bold, visionary minds to help shape the future of our city. Melbourne is built on smart design that reflects our unique identity. But great design is more than good looks. Every building can lift our quality of life, attract investment, and deliver better housing. Our Design Excellence Program and Design Review Panel help make that happen."The City of Melbourne proudly hosted the last two editions of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) ceremonies. In 2024, several leading real estate developers in the Australian market earned prestigious accolades, including OSK Property; BHC Property; FY Property, Kooringa Group, MA Financial, CPDM; Golden Sedayu; and Jean Yip Developments.Asia Connect: Melbourne Panel DiscussionAsia Connect: Brisbane Panel DiscussionOther guests at Asia Connect: Melbourne included Bill Papastergiadis, OAM​, Melbourne managing partner,​ Moray & Agnew​; Karen Kong, head of property lending, Bendigo Bank; and Kathy Johnson, managing director, Yarraport Group.From Left to right: Kiong Chan, CEO and Principal Trainer, Australian Leadership Skills Centre; Ivan Lam, Executive Director, International Business, Charter Keck Cramer; James Henderson, Managing Partner, Business Advisory, Tax Consulting, Brisbane, HLB Mann Judd; Shona Leppanen-Gibson, President, Australia Malaysia Business Council Qld; Josh Chye, Partner & Head of Tax Consulting , HLB Mann Judd; Jules Kay, General Manager, PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards & Events; Peter Li, General Manager, Plus Agency; and Karl Fu, Partner - Asian Markets, Winning CommercialLandmark expansionIn a landmark expansion, this year’s Awards programme was also launched at the Asia Connect: Brisbane event co-organised with HLB Mann Judd, the official supervisor. Held on 11 April at HLB’s headquarters in the Brisbane CBD, the presentation featured a panel discussion on the strengthening Brisbane property market. The speakers included Ivan Lam, chairperson of the judges, PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia), and ​​​​executive director for international business, Charter Keck Cramer; Josh Chye, partner and head of tax at HLB Mann Judd; James Henderson, managing partner for business advisory and tax consulting in Brisbane at HLB Mann Judd; Kiong Chan, CEO and principal trainer, Australian Leadership Skills Centre; and Shona Leppanen-Gibson, president of Australia Malaysia Business Council – Queensland.Asia Connect: Brisbane speakers highlighted the infrastructure improvements and development happening in Queensland’s capital city as it prepares to host the 2032 Olympic Games. Other notable guests at the event were Tina Field, honorary consul of the Royal Thai Consulate, and Sheryll Gabutero, honorary consul of the Philippines Consulate Brisbane.The annual black-tie gala dinner and presentation ceremony for the 2025 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) in September will take place in Sydney at the Shangri-La Sydney. Expecting participation from Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth, the Awards demonstrate a wider interest from developers across Australia’s key real estate markets.Key dates for this year’s edition of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) are:18 July 2025 – Entries Close11-20 August 2025 – Site Inspections22 August 2025 – Final Judging19 September 2025 – Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Sydney, Australia12 December 2025 – Regional Grand Final Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation in Bangkok, ThailandAccording to Property Report by PropertyGuru, the official magazine of the Awards, the underlying demand for Australian residential real estate remains robust, despite supply constraints in new residential listings. With stabilising interest rates, improving supply chains, and increasing suburban demand, experts remain cautiously optimistic about the long-term prospects of the market.Jules Kay, General Manager, PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards & EventsJules Kay, general manager of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards and Events, said: “With Australian real estate commanding global interest, we are thrilled to unveil our 2025 awards to showcase world-class projects to discerning property seekers throughout Asia Pacific. Alongside Melbourne and Sydney, Brisbane is a worthy addition to our event schedule this year, as Australia's property market continues to diversify with impressive growth beyond traditional urban hubs. We look forward to celebrating the ingenuity and innovation of developers from all key property destinations at our domestic and international galas later this year.”International stageThe 8th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) are part of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards series, organised by PropertyGuru Group, Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company. First established in 2005 in Thailand, the series marks its 20th anniversary in 2025. Over the years, the Awards expanded to include Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, the Middle East, and Australia.Winners of the Australia awards may qualify to compete at the 20th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final to be held in Bangkok, Thailand in December 2025. At the Grand Final, the best of the best from more than a dozen dynamic property markets in the Asia-Pacific region will compete on the international stage.Josh Chye, Partner & Head of Tax Consulting, HLB Mann Judd, and Official Supervisor of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia)An esteemed panel of independent judges, comprising experts across various real estate sectors, will inspect and evaluate the entries. The judging process will be supervised by HLB International Real Estate Group, the "2024 Network of the Year," under Josh Chye of HLB Mann Judd.Ivan Lam, Executive Director, International Business, Charter Keck Cramer, and Chairperson of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) Ivan Lam, chairperson of the judges, PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia), said: “We proudly launch our awards’ eighth edition amid Australia’s suburban growth, driven by demand for residences beyond city centres—especially from buyers undeterred by market shifts. With new categories this year, we honour developers who have agilely adapted to market shifts, delivering designs and masterplans that meet the needs of diverse property seekers in Australia. With economic stability improving and pressures easing, we are optimistic about long-term investment in Australia’s property market. As more projects rise, we look forward to celebrating innovation and excellence that will define the future of Australian real estate, setting benchmarks for 2025 and beyond.”The 8th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) are supported by official portal partner PropertyGuru; official magazine Property Report by PropertyGuru; supporting associations Australia Malaysia Business Council (AMBC) and Malaysian Developers Council of Australia (MDCA); and official supervisor HLB.For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: AsiaPropertyAwards.com.ABOUT PROPERTYGURU ASIA PROPERTY AWARDS:PropertyGuru’s Asia Property Awards, established in 2005, are the region’s most exclusive and prestigious real estate awards programme. The Asia Property Awards are recognised as the ultimate hallmark of excellence in the Asian property sector. Boasting an independent panel of industry experts and trusted supervisors, the Awards have an unparalleled reputation for being credible, ethical, fair, and transparent. In 2025, the Awards series is open to key property markets around the region. The exciting gala events welcome senior industry leaders and top media, as well as reach property agents and consumers via live streaming. Recognising excellence within each Asian market with a variety of categories, including green and sustainable development, each local awards programme will culminate in the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, which takes place after the PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit during PropertyGuru Week in December 2025. For more information, please visit AsiaPropertyAwards.com.ABOUT PROPERTYGURU GROUP:PropertyGuru is Southeast Asia’s leading1 PropTech company, and the preferred destination for over 31 million property seekers2 to connect with over 50,000 agents monthly3 to find their dream home. PropertyGuru empowers property seekers with more than 2.1 million real estate listings4, in-depth insights, and solutions that enable them to make confident property decisions across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.PropertyGuru.com.sg was launched in Singapore in 2007 and since then, PropertyGuru Group has made the property journey a transparent one for property seekers in Southeast Asia. In the last 17 years, PropertyGuru has grown into a high-growth PropTech company with a robust portfolio including leading property marketplaces and award-winning mobile apps across its core markets.  For more information, please visit: PropertyGuruGroup.com; PropertyGuru Group on LinkedIn.(1) Based on SimilarWeb data between January 2024 and June 2024.(2) Based on Google Analytics data between January 2024 and June 2024.(3) Based on data between April 2024 and June 2024(4) Based on data between January 2024 and June 2024.PROPERTYGURU CONTACTS:General Enquiries:Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing ServicesM: +66 92 954 4154E: allan@propertyguru.com  Media & Partnerships:Nate Dacua, Senior Manager, Media and Marketing ServicesM: +66 92 701 2510E: nate@propertyguru.comSales & Nominations:Watcharaphon Chaisuk (Jeff), Solutions ManagerM: +66 95 797 0595E: jeff@propertyguru.comSales & Nominations:Monika Singh, Solutions ManagerM: +66 87 677 4812E: monika@propertyguru.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Katalon Officially Launches TrueTest(TM) – The First AI-Native Testing System That Thinks Like a Tester and Learns from Users

ATLANTA, GA, Apr 29, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - As software teams increasingly rely on AI-generated code to build applications faster, traditional testing methods are becoming a critical bottleneck. Today, Katalon Inc., the category leader in AI-augmented software testing, announces the general availability of TrueTest™, the world’s first AI-native automated testing system that continuously learns from real users in production to create and maintain test coverage that actually matters.TrueTest eliminates guesswork and redefines the testing process. Traditional testing often relies on assumed user flows based on requirements documents or input from stakeholders. But real users rarely behave as expected. Guesswork leads to blind spots in test coverage, which TrueTest resolves by using actual production behavior as its source of truth.Instead of relying on pre-scripted, guess-based models, TrueTest observes real customer behavior, identifies business-critical user journeys, and auto-generates test cases that reflect how the application is truly used. As applications evolve, TrueTest keeps pace by automatically updating tests without the need for manual maintenance or brittle scripts.TrueTest was built from the ground up for the AI-native era. It does not treat AI as a bolt-on feature. It is an entirely new approach to quality, driven by usage, powered by intelligence, and built for change. Its key capabilities include:Live Usage Intelligence: Observes real user interactions in production and turns them into ready-to-run automated tests.Accelerates the Shift to Automation: Enables teams to quickly transition from legacy test scripts to intelligent automation with auto-generated tests.Self-Maintaining Test Suites: Frees QA teams from repetitive test upkeep by continuously adapting to application changes in real time. Automatically adapts to application changes, removing the manual effort for test upkeep.Prioritized Test Coverage: Highlights the most critical workflows based on actual user behavior, helping teams focus on what matters.Shared Visibility Across Teams: Gives QA, development, product, and even marketing teams a shared view of user journeys and digital experience quality.“Model-based test automation was built on guesswork. TrueTest ends that era. By learning directly from real users in production, it delivers AI-generated, always-relevant automated test coverage, without the need for scripts or guesswork. This isn’t a bolt-on AI feature; it is a ground-up reinvention of testing for the AI-native world. For the first time, QA has something every team wants: real visibility into how customers actually use their applications. Now, developers, product managers, and marketers are the ones asking to see what QA sees. TrueTest isn’t just our vision. It is shaped by our customers, who asked for a better and smarter path to quality.”– Vu Lam, CEO of KatalonMarket Validation: 2025 State of Software Quality ReportAccording to Katalon’s 2025 State of Software Quality Report, released earlier this month, 61% of QA teams are adopting AI tools to reduce repetitive tasks, and nearly half of QA pros surveyed report needing to update up to 30% of their test scripts on a regular basis.These trends reflect a clear need for more intelligent automation. Teams want to spend less time on maintenance and more time delivering quality. TrueTest was created in direct response to this demand. It provides testing that adapts to real usage, maintains itself, and focuses on the experiences that matter most to users.Trusted by Global Technology LeadersStrategic partners across the QA and DevOps landscape are already embracing TrueTest™:“TrueTest aligns perfectly with our mission to help clients release faster without compromising on quality. In modern CI/CD pipelines, test maintenance is often the hidden cost that slows everything down. By generating and updating tests based on real user behavior, TrueTest helps us eliminate that bottleneck entirely. Our teams now focus on enabling smarter quality engineering, while TrueTest ensures continuous coverage of what matters most.”— Amalesh Mishra, Chief Growth Officer, QualityKiosk Technologies“For us, innovation in software quality must be practical, scalable, and aligned with user outcomes. TrueTest checks all those boxes. It allows our teams to reduce test debt, accelerate feedback loops, and deliver continuous value across client applications. By turning real user behavior into self-maintaining tests, TrueTest gives our QA engineers superpowers and frees them to focus on optimizing digital experiences, not just catching bugs.”– Du Nguyen, Managing Director, KMS TechnologyLearn More About TrueTest™- Product Overview- Video: Vu Lam, Katalon CEO, discusses TrueTest in-depth (14 minutes)- On-Demand Webinar: Cut test automation time by 80% with TrueTest™About KatalonKatalon is the category leader in AI-augmented software testing, empowering hybrid testers—those blending manual, automation, and AI skills, to deliver exceptional digital experiences. Trusted by more than 30,000 QA and DevOps teams across 80+ countries, Katalon has been named a G2 Leader in software testing for 11 consecutive quarters. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Atlanta, Katalon helps teams accelerate software delivery and elevate quality through a powerful, integrated test automation platform, empowering them to release with speed and confidence.Media Contact:Arati Mukerjicommarati@gmail.com +91-9958895759(Ms) Nhung (Rosie) Nguyennhung.nguyen@katalon.com +84-039689137 Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

The Apipatana Foundation Donates S$50,000 to Support Lower-Income Students in Singapore

SINGAPORE, Apr 29, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Apipatana Foundation has donated S$50,000 through the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS)’s donor-advised fund to support children from lower-income families in Singapore.This donation qualifies for a 1-to-1 match under the SG Gives Matching Grant through the Collective for a Stronger Society (CSS) - a CFS-led initiative that consolidates resources to drive impactful social programmes.These funds will fully support a year of operational costs for CATCH THEM YOUNG’s new KidsExcel+ programme, an afterschool initiative dedicated to primary school students from households earning a per capita monthly income of S$750 or less. By ensuring sustained access to quality educational and extracurricular support, this investment directly empowers children with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed for long-term success.“I am honoured to support the KidsExcel+ programme with this inaugural donation,” said Thanit Apipatana, Founder, The Apipatana Foundation. “Many children face hurdles that go beyond the classroom, making it harder to stay on track academically. I look forward to seeing this programme support students in their studies and beyond.”"Real change doesn’t happen on its own – it happens when people come together," said Paul Tan, CEO, Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS). "We’re proud to support The Apipatana Foundation and Catch Them Young in their shared mission to uplift children’s lives. For 17 years, CFS has been a trusted partner, empowering givers like Thanit to fulfil their philanthropic purpose for good. We remain committed to advocating for a generous society and helping to build a more caring and inclusive Singapore for generations to come."The donations will benefit 650 participating lower-income students under the Ministry of Social and Family Development’s (MSF) ComLink+ and the Ministry of Education’s Financial Assistance Scheme this year.KidsExcel+ is an expanded version of the original KidsExcel programme, and following a successful pilot in 2024, it will fully replace the latter this year. The new programme has integrated a more holistic range of offerings to improve academic and socio-emotional development outcomes for its student intake.The KidsExcel+ programme will run for 50 weeks every year, with weekly three-hour sessions that provide academic tutoring in English, Mathematics, and Science. Beyond the core curriculum, the programme incorporates team sports to help students develop confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills, with biannual sports camps offering additional opportunities to strengthen leadership and collaboration. Students will also have access to e-resource libraries, adaptive assessments, and Android tablets with mobile connectivity – tools that allow them to learn on their own.“The generosity of our donors surpasses our expectations each year. We applaud their enthusiasm in seeing disadvantaged children succeed. According to the 2023 Household Expenditure Survey, lower-income families in Singapore spend nearly 4 times less on tuition than high-income families,” said Kevyn Sim, CEO, CATCH THEM YOUNG. “Donations like Mr Apipatana’s make it possible for us to help alleviate the burden on lower-income families by helping their children excel in school.”The KidsExcel+ programme aims for 50% of participating children to improve their academic performance in at least one subject by 15%, and for 50% of them to achieve a higher Strengths & Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) score after completing the 50 week long programme.About The Apipatana FoundationEstablished in November 2024, The Apipatana Foundation is a philanthropic initiative under the Community Foundation of Singapore, dedicated to funding education and community programmes that provide academic support, mentorship, and essential resources for underprivileged groups.Established by Thanit Apipatana, a Bangkok-based entrepreneur, investor, and startup advisor, The Apipatana Foundation focuses on initiatives that create direct, measurable impact. Apipatana has invested in companies such as Singapore’s Mogul.sg and Thailand’s Life Below Labs, with a portfolio spanning venture building, real estate, F&B, and sports. He actively supports projects that improve access to education and strengthen social support systems.About The Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS)The Community Foundation of Singapore empowers individuals and organisations to fulfil their philanthropic giving with purpose and impact. Our vision is to nurture a generous society of caring, inclusive and thriving communities.As specialists in Singapore’s philanthropic ecosystem, our dedicated team provides trusted guidance to help donors structure and optimise their giving based on their values and interests. We support a wide range of causes - from uplifting disadvantaged families and vulnerable children, to championing the arts, culture, and the environment.To ensure every donation makes a meaningful difference, we uphold the highest standards of corporate governance and collaborate with over 400 charity partners to drive effective, measurable impact.As at March 31, 2025, CFS has raised over S$344 million in donations, including legacy gifts, and disbursed over S$200 million to diverse charitable causes.Visit www.cf.org.sg to learn more about what we do.About CATCH THEM YOUNG and KidsExcel+CATCH THEM YOUNG is a charity that supports children from disadvantaged profiles by trying to level the playing field. One of its key programmes is KidsExcel+, which is a sports and academic enrichment programme, comprising weekly sessions held over the year.Partnering primary schools and social agencies, each year we support 500 children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Through regular, consistent engagement, we hope to achieve sustained academic and behavioural progress in our children. KidsExcel+ aims to develop resilient, confident children with positive learning attitudes.For more details about the KidsExcel+ programme, please visit: https://www.cty.sg/kidsexcel Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Global Sports Brand U.S. Polo Assn. Delivers Record $2.5 Billion in Retail Sales for 2024, Targets $3 Billion and 1,500 U.S. Polo Assn. Stores

West Palm Beach, FL, Apr 29, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - USPA Global, the company that manages U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), announced that the sports brand has delivered a record $2.5 billion in global retail sales in 2024 with a target of $3 billion in sales and 1,500 U.S. Polo Assn. stores in the near future.U.S. Polo Assn.U.S. Polo Assn.'s continued record growth resulted from expanding its existing footprint across all regions around the world. U.S. Polo Assn. delivered steady growth in North America, the brand's largest market, and continued to gain market share in the other established regions of Western Europe, Middle East and Latin America. In addition, U.S. Polo Assn. is significantly growing in emerging markets for the brand such as Asia Pacific and Eastern Europe. Finally, U.S. Polo Assn. is considered the largest and fastest growing menswear brand in India, with the brand targeting a billion dollars of retail sales in the country in the coming years. U.S. Polo Assn. will also be actively launching several new strategic markets in 2025 including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Poland and Thailand.Today, U.S. Polo Assn.'s footprint spans across 190 countries, with some 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores, and thousands of other locations including department stores, specialty retail, sporting goods channels, and e-commerce. U.S. Polo Assn. continues to climb the retail ranks as one of the largest global licensed sports brands in the world, ranking in the top five alongside the NFL, MLB, and NBA, according to License Global."The strength of our sport-inspired brand, great quality products and overall global momentum has resulted in yet another record year for U.S. Polo Assn.," explained J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, the company that manages and markets the multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand globally. "Our biggest growth engine for U.S. Polo Assn. around the world is our direct-to-consumer sales, whether that's in our sport-inspired stores or through our branded e-commerce sites, which enable consumers to engage with the brand and our authentic connection to the sport.""For U.S. Polo Assn., our significant growth in direct-to-consumer channels can be directly attributed to our strategic initiatives to enhance customer engagement and build brand awareness in ways that improve the overall customer experience," added Prince.U.S. Polo Assn.'s robust growth strategy includes a relentless focus on retail store expansion worldwide. The brand has grown its global fleet to over 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. stores, targeting some 1,500 by 2030. For 2024, new and existing strategic stores around the world continue to be enhanced with a more elevated brand and sports concept, providing consumers with an authentic experience when engaging with the brand. Flagship locations are being enhanced or opening in markets all over the world, offering curated selections of U.S. Polo Assn. clothing and accessories for men, women and kids.In addition, U.S. Polo Assn. continues to build on its successful digital strategies to generate record growth in e-commerce with some 50 brand sites in 20 languages. Retail sales growth can also be attributed to new site launches in India, the U.K., Japan and Romania, all demonstrating tremendous e-commerce momentum. U.S. Polo Assn. has further expanded its digital presence across the top social media platforms, with over 10 million followers worldwide demonstrating additional global momentum."We remain committed to entering new partnerships and opportunities to drive our international market expansion and grow our product category offerings while also elevating our global brand strategy, strengthening our strategic sports relationships and philanthropic mission while deepening our authentic connection to the sport of polo," Prince concludes.The brand's relationship with ESPN now runs through 2026 with a recent extension, bringing the thrilling sport to a large global audience and making polo accessible to millions of households and multiple digital channels. The sport's illustrious U.S. Open Polo Championship®, which is broadcast by ESPN and hosted this year by legendary ESPN commentator Chris Fowler, now sits alongside the elite company of The Masters and the Kentucky Derby as one of the country's most prestigious Spring sporting events. In addition, an iconic deal was signed with Star Sports India to broadcast several of the premier polo championships in the world, sponsored by U.S. Polo Assn, alongside Wimbledon, Premier League Soccer and India Premier League (IPL) Cricket.The USPA National Polo Center (NPC), the sport's premier destination in North America, brought record crowds and sellout Sundays for the 2024-2025 American High-Goal Polo Season, with the best polo in the world from January through April. The stunning venue, now owned by the USPA, is situated in beautiful Palm Beach County, Florida, spans 160 acres, and encompasses multiple grass polo fields, fine dining, tennis courts, stadium seating, swimming pool, and the newly renovated USPA Shop. This Flagship location is an elevated consumer experience filled with rich polo heritage and fashion, boasting a diverse curated collection of sport-inspired and luxury merchandise. At the centerpiece of the USPA Shop is the "Halo," a 360-degree circular screen that showcases the most exciting polo highlights of the season, immersing polo fans and consumers alike.Further supporting the brand's consumer engagement initiatives, the USPA Global Team has been preparing worldwide for a series of 135th Anniversary global events and brand campaigns to create an unforgettable experience for sports fans and consumers in 2025. The U.S. Polo Assn. Anniversary Campaign, now underway, celebrates the 135th year of the USPA and features activations in major markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. Throughout 2025, consumers can look forward to exclusive in-store events, digital experiences, capsule collections, and collaborations with influencers and athletes, all celebrating the sport's legacy and future."In 2024, the U.S. Polo Assn. Global Team and our worldwide strategic partners delivered unprecedented financial results and reached significant achievements in our product offerings, expansion initiatives, global marketing and broadcast efforts," said Prince. "I look forward to an exciting 2025 with an outstanding 135th Anniversary Campaign featuring global events that are already underway in the United States, India and China, with more to come in Italy, the U.K., Turkey and beyond.""I have never been more confident and optimistic about the U.S. Polo Assn. global business increasing our market presence and growing our leadership position, with the near-term goal of passing $3 billion in worldwide sales and 1,500 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores by 2030," Prince concludes.About U.S. Polo Assn. and USPA GlobalU.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the largest association of polo clubs and polo players in the United States, founded in 1890 and based at the USPA National Polo Center in Wellington, Florida. This year, U.S. Polo Assn. celebrates 135 years of sports inspiration alongside the USPA. With a multi-billion-dollar global footprint and worldwide distribution through more than 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores as well as thousands of additional points of distribution, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel, accessories, and footwear for men, women, and children in more than 190 countries worldwide. Historic deals with ESPN in the United States and Star Sports in India now broadcast several of the premier polo championships in the world, sponsored by U.S. Polo Assn., making the thrilling sport accessible to millions of sports fans globally for the very first time.U.S. Polo Assn. has consistently been named one of the top global sports licensors in the world alongside the NFL, NBA, and MLB, according to License Global. In addition, the sport-inspired brand is being recognized internationally with awards for global and digital growth. Due to its tremendous success as a global brand, U.S. Polo Assn. has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, Modern Retail, and GQ as well as on Yahoo Finance and Bloomberg, among many other noteworthy media sources around the world.For more information, visit uspoloassnglobal.com and follow @uspoloassn.USPA Global is a subsidiary of the USPA and manages the global, multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. Through its subsidiary, Global Polo Entertainment (GPE), USPA Global also manages Global Polo TV, which provides sports and lifestyle content. For more sports content, visit globalpolo.com.Contact InformationStacey KovalskyVice President, Global PR and Communicationsskovalsky@uspagl.com+001.561.790.8036Kaela DrakePR & Communications Specialistkdrake@uspagl.com+001.561.461.8596SOURCE: U.S. Polo Assn.Related Images Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Holds Christening and Launch Ceremony of Large Car Ferry KEYAKI in Shimonoseki

-- First of Two Large Car Ferries Ordered by Shinnihonkai Ferry and Japan Railway Construction, Transport and Technology Agency --- First ferry in Japan featuring buttock-flow stern hull(Note1) with ducktail(Note2), enabling 5% savings in energy compared to earlier ships- After handover in December 2025, ferry will go into service between Otaru and MaizuruTOKYO, Apr 29, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group company, today held a christening and launch ceremony for the first of two large car ferries ordered by Shinnihonkai Ferry Co., Ltd. and Japan Railway Construction, Transport and Technology Agency (JRTT). The ceremony took place at the Enoura Plant of MHI's Shimonoseki Shipyard & Machinery Works in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The new ferry will serve on a shipping route between the city of Otaru in Hokkaido and Maizuru in Kyoto Prefecture.At the ceremony Shinnihonkai Ferry President Yasuo Iritani christened the new ferry "KEYAKI," the Japanese word for a species of native Zelkova trees. The ceremonial rope cut was performed by soprano Ayako Tanaka. The ship's handover is scheduled for December 2025 following completion of outfitting work and sea trials. The KEYAKI is the ninth ferry built by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding for Shinnihonkai Ferry.The KEYAKI is the first ferry in Japan to adopt the latest energy-saving hull form, including a KATANA BOW and buttock-flow stern hull(Note1) with ducktail(Note2). Propulsion resistance is suppressed by an energy-saving roll-damping system combining an anti-rolling tank(Note3) and fin stabilizers(Note4). Together these innovations enable a 5% savings in energy compared to earlier vessels.Japan is currently undergoing a modal shift to sea transport in an effort to mitigate environmental impact by reducing CO2emissions and to compensate for truck driver shortages arising from workstyle reforms. This shift has brought utilization of ferry transport into sharp relief. Going forward, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding will continue to contribute to active use of sea transport and environmental protection, resolving diverse issues together with its business partners through construction of ferries that provide stable sea transport together with outstanding energy and environmental performance.(1) A hull design that reduces water resistance by optimizing the shape of the stern.(2) A hull form with the stern protruding like a duck's tail.(3) An anti-rolling tank contains water that shifts laterally within a ship's beam. When a vessel rolls, the tank water moves in the direction opposite to the rolling, easing the rolling effect.(4) Fin stabilizers are another device that reduces ship rolling. Attached to both sides of the hull, these movable fins generate lifting power in the water in the direction opposite to the rolling.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Sterling Wins Top Customer Experience Provider (BPO) Award at the CEE BSC Summit 2025

EQS Newswire / 29/04/2025 / 16:44 UTC+8 Warsaw, Poland - April 29, 2025 - (SeaPRwire) - Sterling has been awarded Top Customer Experience Provider (BPO) at the 13th Annual CEE Business Services Summit & Awards, held in Warsaw on March 5-6, 2025. The award highlights Sterling's role in delivering high-quality outsourcing solutions, integrating technology into customer service, and optimizing business process operations. The CEE Business Services Summit & Awards is a key event in the Central and Eastern European business services sector, bringing together industry executives, experts, and stakeholders to discuss trends, challenges, and developments. The awards recognize companies that have made a measurable impact in customer experience, service quality, and business process outsourcing. A Diverse International Presence at the Summit Sterling was represented at the event by: Harry Virdee - CEO Adam Whitmarsh - Customer Experience Director Aneta Woźniak - HR Manager Katarzyna Kotlarz - Team Manager Malwina Suwała - Talent Acquisition Manager Anthony Rumbold - Head of Sales This year's summit drew attendees from a wide range of countries. In addition to strong participation from Poland, Romania, Germany, France, Denmark, Finland, and Ukraine, there were also representatives from Lithuania, Latvia, Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Austria, Holland, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, the UK, the USA, and Japan. The event provided an opportunity for cross-border collaboration, industry insights, and discussions on the evolving role of business services in Europe and beyond. Sterling's Perspective on Europe-India Collaboration Sterling's CEO, Harry Virdee, joined a panel discussion on the relationship between India and Europe and its influence on the outsourcing industry. He highlighted the shift toward long-term, knowledge-based partnerships that go beyond cost efficiency. "Collaboration between India and Europe is not just a business opportunity—it's a chance to build a future based on shared knowledge, sustainable progress, and innovation," said Harry Virdee, CEO of Sterling. The discussion also covered automation in business services, with panelists exploring how companies are balancing AI-driven processes with human-led customer interactions. Virdee pointed out that while automation is improving efficiency, maintaining customer engagement through personalized service remains a priority. Recognition for Customer Experience Leadership During the awards ceremony, Sterling was announced as the Top Customer Experience Provider (BPO). This recognition reflects the company's focus on multilingual support, integrated financial processes, and data-driven service improvements. "This award reflects the dedication of our entire team. We work across markets and industries to solve challenges, optimize operations, and create value for our clients. It is an honor to see this effort recognized on an international stage," Virdee stated during his acceptance speech. Sterling's expansion in Poland and India, alongside its strong performance in the European outsourcing sector, has contributed to its growing presence in the market. Over the past year, the company has quadrupled in size, expanded its operations in Łódź, and strengthened its technology-driven customer service approach. CEE BSC Summit & Awards: An Industry Benchmark The CEE Business Services Summit & Awards featured over 40 speakers and panelists, addressing themes such as digital transformation, automation, workforce strategies, and outsourcing trends. With companies from financial services, telecommunications, retail, healthcare, and government sectors in attendance, discussions focused on how outsourcing providers can adapt to market changes, improve customer retention, and support businesses in their digital strategies. Sterling's recognition in the customer experience category demonstrates the growing importance of BPO providers that deliver not just cost savings but also strategic value in business operations. Sterling's Future in Business Services Winning Best Customer Experience Provider (BPO) is an important milestone, but Sterling's focus remains on long-term service improvements and international growth. The company has announced plans to expand further into Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, where the demand for multilingual outsourcing and financial process management is increasing. Sterling is also investing in automation, AI-driven service enhancements, and tailored customer engagement strategies. "Being recognized is significant, but looking ahead is just as important. We have ambitious goals and will continue to evolve, adapt, and deliver value for our clients," Virdee added. About Sterling Founded in 2007, Sterling is a leading provider of multilingual customer service, credit control, debt recovery, financial back-office processes, and order-to-cash solutions. With operations in Europe and India, Sterling serves clients across the USA, EU, UK, and Australia, offering customized outsourcing solutions to support business operations and improve customer engagement. The company integrates technology, process optimization, and a global service model to deliver high-quality business solutions. Contact Information Name: Anthony Rumbold Company: Sterling Website: www.sterling-outsourcing.com Email: anthony.rumbold@sterling-outsourcing.com Phone: +44 (0)20 7100 5978 29/04/2025 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.com

Kelly Conniff Named Head of Creative at TIME Studios, While Retaining Deputy Editor Role

TIME Studios President Dave O’Connor and TIME Editor in Chief shared the following announcement with staff: Dear all, We are delighted to announce Kelly Conniff's appointment as Head of Creative at TIME Studios. In this new capacity, Kelly will report to Dave O’Connor and collaborate closely with the Studios leadership team to transform TIME's journalism, events, and programming into innovative television, video, and audio projects. Kelly will also continue her role as TIME’s Deputy Editor, overseeing key special projects, including the Person of the Year selection. Since joining TIME in 2012, Kelly has been instrumental in managing and supporting numerous significant and impactful editorial initiatives. She will leverage her experience and relationships to bolster existing projects at TIME Studios and develop new ventures. Kelly will focus on extending our impactful journalism to vibrant film and television platforms, where we’ve cultivated valuable partnerships since TIME Studios became an independent entity. This is a pivotal moment for TIME Studios, which recently garnered five Emmy nominations for its 2023 documentary, THE LIONHEART, building on the success of last year’s Emmy-winning BIG VAPE. We believe TIME Studios' success hinges on the best ideas from TIME and comprehensive company support. Kelly's addition to the TIME Studios team is a crucial step in this evolution. We are confident that TIME’s compelling storytelling will flourish across all mediums. -Dave O’Connor and Sam Jacobs

TIME and Statista’s Methodology for Identifying 2025’s Leading EdTech Firms

TIME, in collaboration with Statista, a global leader in market and consumer data and rankings, is presenting the for the second time. This quantitative study identifies 350 companies worldwide that are focused on creating and delivering educational technologies, including both products and services. Here's a look at the methodology used to select the winners. Methodology The "" research project provides a detailed analysis to pinpoint the leading EdTech companies globally. To be considered, companies must primarily be involved in the development and provision of educational technologies, products, or services. The 350 companies achieving the highest scores were recognized as “World’s Top EdTech Companies 2025.” The ranking is based on two key elements: financial strength and industry impact. Statista collected and examined data from over 7,000 companies using desk research, online applications, and partnerships with data and market intelligence firms. Each company received scores in both areas, which were combined to produce an overall score. To assess financial strength, Statista analyzed revenue, employee numbers, and funding data from publicly accessible sources such as annual reports, company websites, media monitoring, and databases. Information submitted by companies through an online application form on the TIME website was also taken into account. To evaluate industry impact, Statista worked with HolonIQ and LexisNexis® Intellectual Property Solutions to assess companies across various impact dimensions, including: the quality and impact of their product/service offerings the quantity and value of the company's intellectual property portfolio Statista also researched various web traffic metrics to gauge the relevance of the products and services to their intended audiences. The evaluation process began with an assessment of all relevant companies in the global EdTech sector demonstrating above-average financial performance within their geographic region. The selection was then narrowed to include only companies that not only excelled financially but also made a significant industry impact in their respective categories. This selection process enabled the creation of the final ranking of the World’s Top EdTech Companies 2025. After data collection and evaluation, the information was compiled and weighted within a scoring model. The final score was calculated as follows: 70% financial strength score + 30% impact score. The companies with the highest overall scores were named “World’s Top EdTech Companies 2025” by TIME and Statista. In addition to the list of 350 top EdTech companies, Statista and TIME are publishing a “Rising Stars Ranking,” highlighting companies with the highest revenue growth rates over the past three years, based on data submitted through the online application process. Applied criteria: company age 10 years and younger minimum revenue of $1 million USD in 2022 revenue growth rate exceeding 20% over the past three years DisclaimerThe selection of companies and the definition of evaluation criteria were based on the independent journalistic standards of TIME and Statista. Statista, a statistics and market research firm, conducted the evaluation. TIME and Statista do not claim to have examined all companies in existence. The ranking includes only companies that meet the outlined criteria. A position in the ranking signifies positive recognition based on research of publicly available data at the time of the assessment and information gathered through an application process and from collaboration partners. Furthermore, events occurring after March 14, 2025, were not considered in the analysis. Therefore, the results of this list should not be used as the sole source of information for making future decisions. Instead, the information provided through this ranking should be considered alongside other available information about the company. The quality of companies not included in the ranking is not being disputed. ```

Best Foods to Eat When Sick

When you're feeling unwell, whether it's a sore throat making it hard to swallow or a stomach bug causing nausea, eating might not be your first thought. However, Dr. Shannon Dowler, a family physician and board member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, emphasizes that "our bodies actually need nourishment when we're sick, so don't avoid eating." Often, simply eating what you crave can provide some necessary nutrients and fluids. But if you can manage it, certain foods may actively alleviate your symptoms. Here's a guide on what to eat when you're sick, depending on your specific ailment. Stomach bug Gastroenteritis can cause a lack of hunger or thirst due to an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, or a combination of these. Registered dietitian and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson Amy Bragagnini, who is also a certified specialist in oncology nutrition, points out that dehydration is a significant concern. According to the , dehydration can lead to unpleasant symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, and can be dangerous. Bragagnini advises consuming plenty of water, coconut water, or electrolyte-rich drinks while fighting a stomach bug. Start with small amounts and gradually increase your intake as tolerated. "Take sips and spoonfuls rather than gulping large quantities of liquids," Dowler suggests. When you feel ready to eat, prioritize soluble fiber, which can help solidify loose stool without overtaxing your system, according to the . Dowler recommends sticking to bland, starchy options like crackers, bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. (The BRAT diet – bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast – is indeed effective.) Bragagnini advises eating small, frequent meals instead of larger ones that could worsen your symptoms. Additionally, avoid foods too high in fiber, such as nuts, seeds, and fruits or vegetables with the skin on, as they can be difficult to digest in a weakened state. She also recommends avoiding artificial sweeteners, as they can sometimes cause diarrhea. Dowler also advises staying away from anything that could exacerbate dehydration or diarrhea, such as caffeine and alcohol. Constipation Bragagnini emphasizes that hydration is also crucial for constipation. "Often, when people are constipated, their bowels simply aren't moving, making adequate fluid intake important." According to the , warm beverages, in particular, may help stimulate a bowel movement. Bragagnini notes that some people find prunes or prune juice helpful, but and may also aid in getting things moving. Assess your overall fiber intake as well. High-fiber foods like beans, whole grains, legumes, and nuts can in the first place. Add fiber gradually and thoughtfully. "You don't want to go really hard and really fast on the fiber," Dowler says. "Suddenly increasing from no fiber to large amounts of fiber might worsen your constipation and cause gas and bloating." Dowler suggests consulting a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance if you're unsure about your fiber intake. Colds and flu Upper respiratory infections can reduce your appetite, especially if your sense of taste or smell is affected. Bragagnini suggests focusing on foods you find comforting and nourishing, such as broth-based soup, crackers, toast, cereal, rice, or Jell-O. "When you're absolutely not feeling good...try to eat things that aren't going to irritate or aggravate your symptoms," she says. She also suggests peppermint or ginger tea for soothing relief. Broths and teas are . Sore throat Dowler suggests choosing cold foods and drinks like freezer pops, ice cream, or yogurt, or anything else "that feels good and soothing on the throat" when swallowing is painful. She adds that warm soups can also be comforting and provide more nutrients than just water. Tea with honey can also soothe a sore throat and potentially ease a cough, according to the . Heartburn According to the , heartburn or acid reflux happens when the valve connecting the esophagus and stomach doesn't keep stomach acid in the stomach properly. Bragagnini advises identifying and avoiding foods that might be worsening your symptoms. Citrus fruits, spicy foods, acidic foods (like tomatoes), chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and peppermint can trigger heartburn. Dowler also recommends avoiding eating too close to bedtime, as lying down shortly after eating could make it easier for to enter your esophagus. Dowler suggests adding high-fiber, watery foods like cucumbers and leafy greens to your diet. Low-acid foods like bananas and cauliflower may also help you feel better. ```

Spain and Portugal Power Restored, Outage Cause Still Unknown

Yesterday, a sudden power outage impacted millions in Spain and Portugal, disrupting communications, halting metro systems, and causing delays for travelers in airport departure areas. This morning, electricity has been restored across Spain, approximately 18 hours after the initial blackout. The Madrid Metro is operating normally, and residents in the Spanish capital cheered as power returned. This is considered one of the most significant power outages in European history, the largest since a three-hour outage affected 57 million people. What is believed to have caused the outage? During Monday’s sudden outage, Portugal’s grid operator suggested that a possible cause could have been an astrological phenomenon. However, Spain’s meteorological agency reported no such phenomena occurring across the country, nor any sudden temperature fluctuations. European Council President António Costa stated on Monday afternoon that there were “no indications of external causes.” This conclusion aligns with the assessment from Red Eléctrica, Spain’s national grid operator, which indicated that the outages began on Monday. Two separate power outage incidents led to grid instability, resulting in a “breakdown in interconnections with France” and isolating the Iberian grid. On Tuesday, Red Eléctrica dismissed the possibility of a cyber-attack as the cause. Investigations are ongoing by Portuguese and Spanish grid operators and cybersecurity teams, but the cause of the outages remains unclear. Kristian Ruby, secretary general of Eurelectric, a trade body, stated that a full technical analysis to understand the outage could take weeks or even months. What was affected? The outage on Monday impacted various sectors, from sports to transportation, affecting tens of millions of people. Tennis star Coco Gauff’s post-match interview was interrupted as systems went down at the Madrid Open. Metro services and trains were also stopped in both countries, along with traffic systems in several cities. In Madrid, members of the public offered rides to others when public transport was suspended. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that his government will “demand accountability from private operators” in response to the outage, while also urging caution against spreading misinformation about the causes at this time. Sánchez emphasized that determining the cause was essential to prevent a similar event from “ever taking place again.” ```

U.S. Policies Criticized for Treatment of International Students

Momodou Taal, an international student at Cornell University, initiated legal action against the Trump Administration. However, he was absent from his court hearing on March 25 in Syracuse, N.Y. A day prior to filing the lawsuit, which sought an injunction against two of President Donald Trump's executive orders for alleged violations of speech and due process rights, the U.S. government revoked Taal's student visa and soon after, . As a professor residing and working in Syracuse, I attended the hearing. The courtroom was filled with members of the public. Taal's absence served as a stark reminder of the difficult situation faced by international students due to Trump's immigration policies. Attending the hearing could have resulted in Taal's immediate arrest and detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The hearing was intended, in part, to address Taal's request for a temporary restraining order against his arrest and deportation, which the court ultimately denied. He left the country on his own a few days later. Taal is among a number of international students who have been critical of the U.S. government and Israel while studying in the U.S., and who have subsequently had their ability to remain in the country put at risk. , a Fulbright scholar from India and international student at Columbia University, chose to self-deport to avoid being detained after her visa was canceled. Furthermore, , a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University, was apprehended on the street by masked agents. These are just a couple of the cases that have come to light. Numerous reports indicate that ICE agents are and detaining international students. On March 27, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that approximately 300 international students have already had their visas revoked this year, becoming casualties of attacks on political dissent, non-citizens, and higher education. In the weeks that followed, it was revealed that the Trump Administration had terminated the immigration records of about 4,700 international students. Subsequently, the Trump Administration reversed their policy last week, with the Department of Justice announcing that ICE would reinstate these immigration records. However, many of the impacted students still face an uncertain future. Over international students are currently enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities. This follows a recent increase resulting from an intentional effort—in higher education terms—to “” our campuses. This trend is part of the global commodification of higher education, with universities nationwide relying significantly on the enrollment, revenue, and labor provided by international students. Their increasing presence translates to for the U.S. economy. However, the importance of international students extends beyond their economic contributions. Universities frequently highlight increased international student enrollment as part of their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Nevertheless, the recent arrests of international students send a new message from our nation's leaders: their pursuit of higher education in the U.S. is solely an economic transaction, and as foreign students, they are not welcome to engage in political criticism. U.S. history tells a different story. Students from abroad have long been important to the culture of American campuses. In my own research, I have written about how participated in anti-colonial movements that originated in the U.S. in the early 20th century. During the 1960s and 1970s, students from , , and , along with other international students, joined the international social movements that swept across American campuses to protest U.S.-led wars, combat racism, and challenge oppressive governments. In these historical moments, students from around the world stood with American students, risking political repression to provide moral clarity to our collective conscience and move us toward a more equitable global society. International students participating in student-led demonstrations against the killing of Palestinians in Gaza continued this tradition of free speech and protest. However, this is not the first time that foreign students have faced national scrutiny. For example, after the 9/11 attacks, international students were treated as a ; as a result, several surveillance measures were implemented, including the permanent establishment of a mandatory monitoring system called the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, or “,” which requires higher education institutions to track and report information on their international students to the Department of Homeland Security. Today, the renewed targeting of international students centers on a crackdown on political protest on campuses—a crackdown that began and has intensified under the Trump administration. The fact that students have been suggests insufficient institutional resistance to the erosion of fundamental principles essential for a healthy academic environment: academic freedom, freedom of speech, and the right to dissent. It also communicates to the very students we attract from abroad for economic and marketing purposes that their membership in U.S. university life is conditional upon their political silence. However, international students are our students, and remaining complacent while their perspectives are brutally suppressed and they are removed from our campuses—which should be safe and nurturing spaces for intellectual exchange and political criticism—harms us all. Targeting international students threatens us all by dictating the terms under which anyone can claim access to institutional spaces and cultures of higher learning in the U.S. Indeed, the cost of silencing dissenting voices will not be borne by international students alone.

Awkwardness Is Inherent in Dating, So Accept It

Dating is full of awkward situations, from trying too hard to fill silences to missing social cues and general misunderstandings. These awkward moments are most likely to happen early on when you're first getting to know someone. They also feel the most important, which can make dating feel stressful. People usually want to show their best and most genuine side. They want to be open, but not appear weak, especially at the beginning. So, dealing with awkwardness, or cringe, can be a big worry. I hear a lot of dating stories, and I know that cringe can really affect a romantic connection—but not how we think. Many think that if you seem weird, awkward, or unsure, you'll be immediately rejected. This idea is in every story about someone going from being an "ugly duckling" to a "swan," but that's not really how dating works. It's not about avoiding cringe at all costs to find love. Actually, when people respond to these embarrassing moments with kindness, humor, and understanding, it can bring them closer. Here are some real things that have happened to my clients or their dates: sweating a lot, talking too much, not talking at all, mistaking a friendly outing for a date, telling bad jokes, awkward half-hug-half-kisses, coughing fits, and even throwing up a little. You might be surprised that not all of these dates were disasters. Many turned into relationships (including the non-date and the vomiting incident). Even though these experiences might be cringey, they didn't ruin the connection, and that's important to remember while dating. These daters were able to bounce back from cringe because they were willing to not let one moment ruin the whole experience. Shows like Sex and the City, Friends, Seinfeld, and Girls show embarrassing moments and character quirks in great detail. But these shows were before social media became a main way to socialize, date, and compare ourselves to others. The widespread fear of being seen as cringe, and therefore undatable, is pretty new. The word "cringe" as we use it now comes from online culture. But it's become part of our real lives and, sadly, used against us. The fear of being cringe (or even knowing someone who is cringe) can affect who we date, how we act, and how we express ourselves. Basically, cringe has become a social trap that's hard to escape. Gen Z, who have grown up with the internet, are especially likely to feel pressure to avoid being cringe. People are starting to realize that constantly watching themselves is preventing them from growing and doing what they really want. But knowing that cringe might be holding us back is one thing; facing it and even being cringe sometimes, especially on dates, is another. The fear of being cringe or dating someone cringe can stop connections from happening. Being unforgiving of awkwardness early on in a date stops you from getting to know each other better. Expecting perfection, or hiding our true selves, also hurts our ability to enjoy the good parts of the date. Sure, a date might have gotten ketchup on their shirt and not noticed, but they're kind, funny, and offer you a taste of their fancy drink. These things are much more important than a temporary embarrassing moment. In dating and relationships, we're always trying to connect with each other, according to John and Julia Gottman of The Gottman Institute. These attempts can be small, like asking about our day, inviting us to an event, or touching us. The Gottmans have studied couples for years and found that we have choices in how we respond to these attempts: turning towards, turning away, or turning against them. They also found that couples who stay together longer turn towards each other's attempts to connect about 86% of the time. Ignoring someone because they're awkward in how they try to connect would be turning away, and pointing out that something is cringe would be turning against their attempt to connect. I've seen dating mishaps turn around when both people are willing to accept that dating rituals are often silly. They don't get caught up in the formalities and allow awkwardness to come and go, because it always does. And when someone responds with real concern when something embarrassing happens to their date instead of being disgusted, it creates a path for connection, trust, and intimacy. That's worth overlooking cringe.

It’s Okay to Have Doubts About Having Kids

In my twenties, the thought of having children was a definite "no." However, as I entered my thirties, my perspective softened. When my therapist inquired about my desire for a baby on a scale of one to one hundred, I spontaneously answered that I was 55% sure. Essentially, this felt like a coin flip. My inclination towards having a child was only slightly greater than my reluctance. I created lists of pros and cons and read books such as Motherhood So Dear: Literary Mothers on Why They Chose to Become Mothers, an anthology of over two dozen writers sharing their parenting choices. I engaged in conversations with both parents and non-parents to understand their decisions. Yet, nothing significantly altered that 55% certainty. Being only 55% certain about embracing motherhood left me feeling stuck. It didn't help that whenever I confessed my uncertainty, I was told that I needed to really want a baby to have one. Raising children demanded sacrifice and caused hardship. It meant giving up on your aspirations, even if it was simply wanting to read a book in peace. I was constantly reminded that having a baby would fundamentally change me. I wouldn't enjoy the things I used to. Writing would be impossible, and even reading a newspaper would be a challenge. Friends? Forget about them. Work? Don't even consider it. I had dedicated the last three decades to shaping myself into the person I aspired to be—was I now expected to abandon her? Back then, I was unaware that what call "maternal ambivalence"—a sense of uncertainty before pregnancy and parenthood—is actually quite common. In fact, research indicates that is . I was normal, yet I believed that the women I saw on TV, in movies, and on social media, who seemed so sure about wanting children, were the norm. I recognized that my great-grandmother, grandmother, and even my mother never had the choice to become mothers; it was simply what women did. But now, we have a language and vocabulary to describe maternal ambivalence. It seemed absurd to me that nearly every woman I knew seemed eager to sign up for what appeared to be indentured servitude. The images we're exposed to certainly don't portray motherhood as enjoyable. For example, the book Woman, Eating by Claire Kohda, and the new film adaptation starring Amy Adams, tells the story of a stay-at-home mom whose postpartum experience is so surreal that she transforms into a dog. It's no surprise that many of us are hesitant to fully embrace motherhood. I didn't want to sacrifice myself entirely, but I also didn't want to turn into an animal. Everywhere I looked, mothers seemed overwhelmed, exhausted, and furious—or, at the other extreme, radiant, happily compromising, and thrilled by the identity-erasing monotony of their new lives as moms. Neither extreme felt realistic to me. Is there no middle ground? We do a disservice to women, and everyone else, when we only showcase motherhood at the extremes. Of course, there are the early mornings, diaper explosions, and tantrums. But there are also the morning snuggles, the feeling of my daughter's hand in mine, and the first "I love you." A whole world exists in between, a world that is messy, real, raw, and, dare I say, human. Perhaps we don't discuss the everyday moments because they are ordinary and difficult to capture. Maybe in today's fast-paced world, we're so busy that unless something is exceptionally good or bad, we don't have the time to mention it. When I was contemplating parenthood, I wish someone had told me that being a mother is like life itself: sometimes awful and sometimes wonderful, but mostly somewhere in between. Back then, parenting felt like something I needed to be all-in about if I were to completely transform my life to welcome a baby. It didn't help that my husband at the time was unwavering in his desire to not have children. If I wanted to be a mother, I would have to end my marriage at 37 to figure out how to have the baby I was only 55% sure I wanted. Some friends suggested I adopt a dog or improve my plant-caring skills before considering children. Others advised me to babysit my friend's child for a weekend. Everyone seemed to think there was something I could do to gain more certainty. But the truth was: I needed honesty. I needed people to stop projecting their judgments and expectations onto motherhood and simply share the truth. I needed the concept of motherhood to stop being a battleground where liberals and conservatives fought their feelings, to the detriment of real mothers. I needed to hear that when my daughter waves hello to the birds in the morning, my heart would overflow with joy. And that when she insists on dressing herself, even though it takes three times as long, I would feel frustrated. Motherhood isn't something you can try out to see if you'll enjoy it. If you choose to have a baby, there are no guarantees that you'll be good at it, that you won't regret your decision, or that you'll figure it all out. You simply have to have hope. It's normal to feel uncertain about such a life-altering decision. And it's perfectly acceptable to decide not to become a mother. Society stigmatizes women who choose to be child-free. oscillate between whether women who are child-free are or whether the is true. Ultimately, screw the studies. It's a personal choice. Sitting on my therapist's couch, I wish someone had told me that we don't need to be completely committed to parenthood to choose to have a baby. That level of expectation adds pressure to an already complex decision. Who's to say that my desire for a baby couldn't grow from 55% to 150% over time? Who's to say that I wouldn't evolve and mature as I realized that my life is my own and I don't have to follow anyone else's rules? Who's to say that our feelings are fixed and unchangeable? I wish someone had told me that any decision aligned with our deepest desires is a good one. I wish someone had told me that I'd remain unhappy as long as I was in limbo. I wish someone had told me that 55% was as good a number as any.

Mark Carney’s Triumph: Decoding Canada’s Election Victory

Although Donald Trump's name wasn't on the ballot, he appears to be the biggest loser of the night. Mark Carney secured the election by emphasizing the threat of annexation every day for six weeks. This anti-annexation message facilitated the Liberal Party's remarkable recovery, a swift, unprecedented 30-point turnaround. In January, the election seemed certain for Pierre Poilievre, who had been leading in the polls for over two years. Poilievre had successfully convinced Canadians of the need to replace the Liberals and was preparing for office. “Axe the tax,” he repeated frequently, and promised lower taxes. He built a seemingly solid base of support for his platform, which included tax cuts, reduced regulations, a crackdown on crime, and removing obstacles to housing and free enterprise. Then, Trump's statements began, alarming Canadians. The Liberals, in desperation, replaced Trudeau with Carney. Conservative support immediately declined, leaving them puzzled about what went wrong. Ontario’s Conservative Premier, Doug Ford, has spoken about this. A relatable and charismatic figure from suburban Toronto, he secured his third majority government in February by pledging to protect Ontario during the trade war. As a former admirer of the U.S. president, he mirrored the sense of betrayal felt by Canadians after their longtime ally turned against them. Ford had a friendly breakfast with Carney at a Toronto diner in March. The formal central banker and the pragmatic businessman connected well, forming a good-cop-bad-cop strategy to address the ongoing threats from the U.S. This gave Carney a significant advantage. "Ford signaled to voters in the Greater Toronto Area that Carney represented a change from Trudeau, especially regarding the economy," stated Gerald Butts, an advisor to both Trudeau and Carney. "Some voters who had dismissed the Liberal Party under Justin Trudeau became interested in Mark Carney." In contrast, Poilievre was slow to respond when Trump began calling Trudeau names, faulting the Liberals for not addressing border security instead of directly challenging Trump's attacks. This approach did not resonate in Ontario, which conducts approximately $500 billion CAD in annual trade with the U.S., and where nearly 100,000 jobs are tied to the auto industry. It also failed to resonate in much of the rest of the country. "We observed approximately 8 million voters shifting to the Liberal Party of Canada within roughly six weeks," noted pollster Frank Graves of EKOS Research. "This wasn't a superficial or casual change. A powerful force drove it, stemming from the negative reaction to the Donald Trump 2.0 spectacle." A quicker change in stance on Trump might have kept Poilievre competitive, but he's known as a relentless attacker, not a consensus-builder. For years, Poilievre's uncompromising attacks on the Liberals were influenced by the MAGA movement, which made him a liability. This contributed to a significant number of voters who typically support the left-leaning NDP and the separatist Bloc Quebecois, also on the left, switching to the Liberals. The electorate has become somewhat polarized, making Canada resemble a two-party system, with the Liberals being the larger party. Because Poilievre is largely unpopular with much of the electorate, he was left with no other option but to try to convince Canadians that Carney was unfit for office. But Carney, while new to politics, possesses an impressive background. He led the Bank of Canada during the 2008 financial crisis and subsequently the Bank of England during the Brexit period. Poilievre’s Tories labeled him an elitist, claiming he was “just like Justin,” and accused him of being dishonest. Their media allies even brought out former British Prime Minister Liz Truss—whose time in office was disastrous—to criticize him, but nothing had any effect. Carney may not be able to excite a crowd like Trudeau or Poilievre, but his calm demeanor and air of competence has reassured a worried nation. Despite appearing as a centrist, Carney has pledged to increase spending beyond Trudeau’s record deficits, contending that Canada needs to invest its way out of the trade war that threatens to push the country into recession. Poilievre might have had a chance if the election focused on taxes and spending, steps to make life more affordable, and jumpstarting the economy, but Trump wouldn't stay out of it. On election day, he appealed to the “Great people of Canada,” encouraging Canadians to vote to become “the cherished 51st. State of the United States of America.” Canadians don’t want that, and it will now be Carney’s job to make sure it doesn’t happen.

Trump Claims He’s Reinstating Columbus Day, Despite It Never Being Canceled

This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIME’s politics newsletter. Sign up to get stories like this sent to your inbox. Despite it being April, former President Donald Trump has already declared that Columbus Day will be observed in October, as it has been traditionally. This announcement, framed as another element of the culture war, reinforces to Trump's supporters that he opposes political correctness and progressive ideas that favor Indigenous Peoples Day, which President Joe Biden has recognized alongside Columbus Day. Trump views Christopher Columbus—who, despite never setting foot in the United States, is credited with "discovering" America—as a key American figure akin to Confederate leaders like Robert E. Lee, who have faced scrutiny. In Trump's view, Columbus is fundamental to American identity, while Indigenous Peoples Day is a harmful attempt to undermine it. “The Democrats did everything possible to destroy Christopher Columbus, his reputation, and all of the Italians that love him so much,” the President posted Sunday on Truth Social, his alternative to the platform formerly known as Twitter. “They tore down his Statues, and put up nothing but ‘WOKE,’ or even worse, nothing at all! Well, you’ll be happy to know, Christopher is going to make a major comeback. I am hereby reinstating Columbus Day under the same rules, dates, and locations, as it has had for all of the many decades before!” It should be noted that Trump cannot unilaterally declare a national holiday. While Biden has acknowledged Columbus Day annually, he has also recognized Indigenous Peoples Day; however, Congress has not made Indigenous Peoples Day a federal holiday. Similar congressional action would be required to remove Columbus Day from the list of federal holidays, which has not happened. Although there have been attempts in Congress to change the holiday’s name to diminish Columbus's role, these efforts have failed. While some Columbus statues have been removed, many landmarks, like Columbus Circle in Manhattan, still bear his name, a monument erected following violence against Italian-American immigrants. Columbus Day was always scheduled for October 13th, regardless of Trump's statements. While he implied the end of Indigenous Peoples Day, he did not explicitly state this, but his supporters understood his message.  The presidency involves a significant performative aspect, where public actions are seen as a necessary part of the job. Trump amplifies this, using grievances and divisions to mobilize his base. His recent announcement is a direct appeal to voters who feel excluded by a political climate that questions the celebration of a colonizing explorer traditionally credited with "sailing the ocean blue" in 1492. However, the reality is much more complex, as Columbus's arrival led to European expansionism and the devastation and enslavement of native populations. It is estimated that as many as 56 million native-born Americans died as a result of European arrival between 1492 and 1600. Political memory is often manipulated for strategic purposes. A close relationship exists between history and nationalism, reinforcing an ideal that can sometimes lead to violence in defense of both a romanticized past and existing inequalities. Consider the rise of white Christian nationalism in response to increasing civil rights advancements and the backlash it has caused. The MAGA movement is rooted in nativist and nationalist sentiments.  Ironically, Columbus never set foot on mainland North America, yet he became a symbol for Italian-American immigrants facing discrimination in the 1890s. Columbus served as a representation of the nation's idealized origins, similar to the Mayflower or Western pioneers. As Stephen Sondheim noted, the stories we tell shape our understanding, and these myths are difficult to change once established. This explains why everyone celebrates Saint Patrick's Day and why taquerias are crowded on Cinco de Mayo, even though these holidays are less significant in their respective countries. Ultimately, Trump's actions are less about correcting history or promoting holiday sales and more about galvanizing his supporters by making them feel victimized and empowered. With a clear message, Trump encourages his base to stand firm on their beliefs, even when those beliefs are based on simplified or invented histories. Make sense of what matters in Washington. .

Ambient Music Producer Akdas Hayat Finds YouTube Success

The ambient music producer and YouTuber is redefining India's digital music scene. Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh Apr 29, 2025 – Akdas Hayat, a well-known ambient music producer and successful YouTuber, is celebrated for his compelling musical pieces and considerable impact online. With over 1.7 million subscribers across his channels and millions of streams globally, he has quickly become a prominent figure in digital music. He is particularly noted for his popular remixes on platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok. Born on October 31, 2003, in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, Akdas Hayat's background is distinguished by a solid grounding in technology. Currently studying Computer Science and Engineering at Glocal University, his technical knowledge significantly shapes his creative and strategic approach to digital platforms, giving him a competitive edge in today's digital world. Akdas's music career started around 2021, after building his online presence with his YouTube channel launch in 2020. Initially focused on Lo-Fi music, he has developed a signature sound centered on ambient and piano compositions, as well as remixes and mashups. His professional debut was with the single "Gone Away." Known for consistently releasing music, his tracks, such as the "Anuv Jain Mashup" and "Mitraz X Anuv Jain," often trend on social media, boosting his reach and resulting in millions of streams. His music is characterized by captivating ambient compositions and expressive piano pieces, featuring calming, meditative soundscapes and emotive performances. Beyond music production, Akdas is a successful YouTuber, managing multiple channels with over 1.7 million subscribers. His strategic engagement extends to platforms like Spotify, where he has gained over 700,000 monthly listeners and has more than 20,000 followers, demonstrating a strong influence on major audio streaming services. His entrepreneurial spirit is further highlighted by the creation of Hayat Records, his own music label, which supports his original releases and collaborations, giving him control over his creative and distribution processes. He is known for treating his digital presence, especially YouTube, as a strategic business endeavor. Demonstrating his versatility, Akdas has also written two informative e-books, "The Cryptonian," an introductory guide to cryptocurrencies, and "Digital Marketing," both released in February 2022. His rapid rise and significant achievements at a young age are often emphasized, highlighting his potential and status as a notable person in the Indian entertainment and digital sectors. His verification as an artist on platforms like Google and Bing further confirms his professional credibility. In summary, Akdas Hayat is notable for his combination of musical talent and entrepreneurial skills. By effectively using technology, he has cultivated a large global audience through his engaging music and strategic online presence. His ability to innovate and connect with his audience positions him as a dynamic and influential talent ready for further success in India's entertainment and digital industries.Media ContactHayat Records Source :Issuewire