The NPP parliamentary candidate for Ningo Prampram constituency, Alexander Martey has charged the people of the area especially the youth to always make it a point to choose the right person in the upcoming general elections who will not only lead them in parliament but into total development of the area.

Mr. Martey, a stiff contender to Sam George, the sitting Member of Parliament (MP) for the Ningo Prampram Constituency is of the view that choosing the right person to bring development to the area does not mean voting according to political colors but on basis of someone who demonstrates qualities of high moral values, competency and selfless leadership as well as the person with the proper connection to power. A great negotiator and a good lobbyist.

In an exclusive interview with the news editor of Newsghana24.com during wee hours of last Thursday, Mr Martey said: Lets all forget about all the political colors we belong to in Ningo Prampram and look at the person or personality who will represent us, make us proud and help us to get the necessary development that we need in our environment.

The Ningo-Prampram constituency has been under the tutelage of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) since 1993 up till date but lacks the needed development.

Aside the underdevelopment nature of the area, youth unemployment, lack of capacity building and employment opportunities for the inhabitants coupled with bad roads are major challenges the constituents are faced with.

Lamenting woes of the people, Hon. Alexander Martey revealed that all the numerous challenges faced by the citizens of the area will be amicably resolved when given the mandate to lead in the constituency in the upcoming general elections.

He promised jobs, capacity building opportunities (both in informal and formal ways) for the youth and government support to help fix up the unmotorable roads in the area which the Afienya-Dahwenya road is part to alleviate the plight of the folks.

According to him, he is embarking on a rescue mission with his campaign project which hinges on 3 areas; unity, empowerment and self-less leadership to rescue the constituency from the conundrum it has found itself as a result of its current representation in parliament.

Mr Alex Martey who doubles as a presidential staffer with the Operations Directorate at the Jubilee House says he is the best bet for the Ningo Prampram and that he has already gotten approval from the majority of the people based on merit.

When asked how managed to enter into the race?, the 45-year-old Management Consultant said: I didnt just got up to say Im going to contest for any position in Ningo Prampram but from 2017-2018, Ive been able to push some of our youth into government establishments so that motivated them and they say if we have this man here and he has the heart to help us, then why dont we push him, support him to rather be our MP.

He advised all Ghanaians to respect the WHO protocols as well as governments directives on the partial lockdown and adhere to the basic protective measures such as practicing of social distancing, regularly washing of hands, maintaining personal hygiene always and staying at home among others to stop the spread of the deadly coronavirus in order to stay safe.

Source: Joseph Kobla Wemakor

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Let's vote for the 'right person' to bring us the development we need-Alex Martey - News Ghana

Last month, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities wrote to the states and Union Territories to follow guidelines in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. The state governments were asked to take measures for the safety and protection of the differently-abled during the lockdown period.

One of the many suggestions by the department was .. reserving specific opening hours in retail provision stores including supermarkets for persons with disabilities. In Telangana, officials of the Department for Women, Children, Disabled & Senior Citizens said that they have not implemented the suggestion. In other states, too, this suggestion seems to have not been taken seriously. Recently, para-badminton player Manasi Joshi raised the issue because of a bitter experience she had faced in her hometown in Ahmedabad. Along with my brother, I went to a supermarket to buy essentials. There were many people standing in queue as only 3-5 people were being allowed inside at a time. My token no. was 17. And I could not sit on the bench as it can be contaminated. Since, people in my locality know me well they came up to me and took selfies but did not help me to go ahead in the line. I wish people could be more empathetic, said the winner of para-badminton world championship, who trains in Hyderabad.

For Manasi, the episode was also an eye-opener about how the government needs to do more with respect to priority queueing. We are vulnerable. We have some basic rights and we need support to do our work in these conditions. There was no priority queuing in the supermarkets. She said that when differently-abled are given priority in public transport, then why not in places like stores. She said that she also wants to talk about the difficulty in moving around for the differently-abled during the lockdown.

The guidelines also task the state to provide special passes to the differently-abled who have to go out and also provide them with essential items to further help them. On ground, however, differently-abled are facing their own challenges every day despite the guidelines.

Ahmedunnisa is a mother of two who is physically handicapped. She runs a grocery store in Secunderabad. I have to get supplies for my shop daily and also essential items for my house. Before lockdown, I used to travel by auto but I am not able to do that now, said the sole breadwinner of the family. I cannot walk for a long time as my lower body will start paining. In the present circumstances, I cannot go out on my own, so I request one or the other neighbour to get me stock and essential household items.

Ahmedunnisa hoped that the lockdown will be lifted soon as it is increasingly becoming tough to sustain herself financially and also lead a normal life. If I have some emergency, where should I go and how should I go?

One of the guidelines for Person with Disability (PwD) is During quarantine, essential support services, personal assistance, and physical and communication accessibility should be ensured e.g. blind persons, persons with intellectual/ mental disability (psycho-social) are dependent on care giver support. Similarly persons with disabilities may seek assistance for rectification of fault in their wheelchair and other assistive devices.

Though the state governments are focusing on setting up a number of quarantine centres and isolation wards, it is learnt that the administration is yet to make them differently-abled-friendly.

Commissioner, Welfare of Disabled, B. Shailaja said that they have followed the guidelines sent by the Union government. We have created awareness content on COVID-19 in Braille and sign-languages. We have also started a helpline for the disabled. We are trying to help all those who need medicines or treatment. Through our direct officers, and with the help of support groups, we have supplied them with groceries and essential items.

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COVID-19: In Telangana, differently-abled find it tough during lockdown - THE WEEK

The likely extension in Covid-19 lockdown hangs heavy on the boozers in Himachal Pradesh, whose numbers are no less as compared to those in other states of the country.

With all liquor shops, restaurants and hotels closed since 23 March when the state imposed lockdown followed by curfew on 24 March, black marketing of liquor is flourishing in the state withavailable stocks.

The desi liquor is also in much circulation behind the scenes, as claimed by Director General of Police, SR Mardi himself in his address to people on Friday, wherein he told peopleto stay away from localHooch distillation,which can be life threatening for the user.

Sources in the field said certain brands of English liquor are being sold on very high prices to individual customers, but that doesnt dissuade the alcohol consumers in the state from buying their stock, while escaping the eye of Police.

Himachal being a small state, people are using their personal links to buy liquor from closed hotels, shops and restaurants off-the-record, but not all have that access or the money to spend.

Moved by some considerations a few days after imposing the curfew last month end, the Himachal Pradesh government had ordered that liquor vends would also remain open during the curfew relaxation time, along with essential commodities shops. However, within few hours, it withdrew the decision, reportedly owing to criticism on social media.

The state government has been promoting the sale of liquor all through as it is an important source of revenue for a state like Himachal- up to Rs 1500 crores in a year on an average. Even when the Apex Court had given directions to close down the liquor vends from main highways, the government had taken the other route- It has denotified the highways. Then why they are not allowing liquor vends to open now? said some alcohol users on terms of anonymity.

The answer to the questions lies in the fact that alcohol does not come in the essential commodities list in the event of lockdown and curfew.

Even otherwise, the World Health Organisation (WHO) too has advised that drinking too much alcohol can impair immune response to diseases, including Covid-19.

A document by National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi titled Lockdown and Alcohol Withdrawal dated 29 March addresses the issue of unavailability of alcohol and the types of withdrawal systems with advice to different categories of alcohol users.

A lockdown situation which entails non-availability of alcohol may be a blessing in disguise for some people who may utilize this opportunity to quit drinking altogether. However, it is also a significant challenge for certain proportion of people with alcohol dependence, who are at risk of experiencing severe alcohol withdrawal and its consequences, the NDDTC document said.

It even mentioned that there are indications that various health facilities across the country have started getting patients with severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms since the lockdown has been instituted, stressing the need for health services to prepare accordingly to deal with situation, with reference to telemedicine services too, in such circumstances.

The alcohol withdrawal symptoms can sometimes be life threatening as it affects a person physically as well as psychologically. In such a situation, he should be immediately taken to the emergency in hospital in treatment, said Dr Sanjay Pathak, Chief Executive Officer of Himachal Pradesh Mental Health Authority.

According to national survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India commissioned by Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in 2018-19, nationally 14.6 per cent population (between 10 and 75 yrs of age) uses alcohol, 5.2 per cent of them are problem users and 2.7 percent dependent users.

In Himachal Pradesh, the number of males who use alcohol are 17.6 per cent and the overall per cent age of alcohol users is over 8 per cent in the same age category.The state also has some license holders, who bring out traditional liquor, Angoori, in tribal district of Kinnaur.

More:
COVID-19 lockdown hangs heavy on boozers in Himachal - The Statesman

More than 40 Arlington nonprofits have received a total of over $500,000 in emergency response support from theArlington Community Foundation COVID-19 Prompt Response Fund, with more funds being disbursed daily. [see list of awardees, attached]

The front-line organizations are really in urgent need of funds as they scramble to help our neighbors in crisis, said Arlington Community Foundation CEO and President Jennifer Owens. Thanks to the many generous people in our community, we are providing support on a daily basis. But the needs are immense and there is no end in sight.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak in Arlington, a team of Community Foundation staff, board members, and representatives from both the County and other local funders have met daily to assess grant requests from nonprofit organizations on the front lines with clients, patients, and residents impacted by the health crisis and its economic fallout. This includes organizations focused on emergency food needs, health needs for the uninsured or underinsured, and support for hourly workers displaced from their wage-earning positions.

The Arlington Community Foundations response efforts were bolstered bya grant from Amazon, $350,000 of which was specifically targeted for use in Arlington.. TheWashington Forrest Foundationhas also partnered in the Community Foundations prompt-response effort, including supporting 25 percent of the first $300,000 in awarded grants. The Philip K. Graham Fund and many of the Foundations donor-advised fundholders have also supported the fund, which has secured more than $750,000 to date to fund emergency needs.

We encourage people to directly support their favorite nonprofits if they know where the money is needed most and have those relationships, said Owens. But for businesses and individuals who are looking for a way to provide crucial help to an array of vetted Arlington nonprofits helping with right-now needs, our Prompt Response Fund is an effective way to do that.

To learn more about the Community Foundations Prompt Response Fund, including how to make a gift, please visitwww.arlcf.org.

Arlington Community Foundation

COVID-19 Prompt Response Grantees through 4/6/20

AHC Inc $20,000

AHC develops affordable housing and helps communities thrive in the Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Baltimore region. The grant willcover Arlington residents emergency needs such as groceries, diapers and other supplies with maximum flexibility.

ALS Association DC/MD/VA Chapter$5,000

The DC/MD/VA Chapter of the ALS Association serves the needs of those living with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) and their families throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The grant willsupport technology purchases for online support to Arlington clients who are highly susceptible to COVID-19 because of advanced respiratory issues.

APAH$20,000

APAHis a nonprofit focused on increasing the number of committed affordable apartments in the DC Metro area for our low-income neighbors. The grant willprovide its Arlington residents with financial assistance for rent, food, and other emergency purchases.

Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC)$5,000, $20,000

AFACs mission is to feed our neighbors in need by providing dignified access to nutritious supplemental groceries.Initial first-day emergency grant, and second grant to purchase groceries that will help meet increased COVID-related demand.

Arlington Free Clinic$5,000

The Arlington Free Clinic ensures the medically underserved have access to affordable quality health care.This first-day quick response grant provided flexible support to the Clinic for its initial response to the crisis.

Arlington Neighborhood Village$5,000

Arlington Neighborhood Villageis dedicated to helping older Arlington residents continue living in their own homes. The grant willprovide emergency supplies including food, medicine, and cleaning supplies for low-income seniors.

Arlington Thrive$20,000

Arlington Thriveprovides same-day, emergency financial assistance for Arlington residents facing a hardship. The grant will supportincreased needs for rent and food assistance.

A-SPAN$20,000

A-SPAN strives to end homelessness inArlingtonthrough housing and ongoing case management.The grant will support additional food purchases for increased meal demand, and emergency nursing and medical supplies, including protective gear, thermometers, and hospital grade cleaning supplies.

Bonder and Amanda Johnson Community Development Corporation$10,000

Bonder and Amanda Johnson Community Development Corporation addresses needsin the Green Valley (formerly Nauck) communitythrough education, healthy living, financial empowerment andcommunity involvement.The grant will support neighborhood residents with emergency assistance for rent, food and supply purchases as well as to provide emergency medical transportation services.

Bridges to Independence$10,000

Bridges to Independence offers a continuum of shelter and support for homeless individuals and families, helping them attain financial security and moving forward into self-sufficiency.The grant willprovide families in the shelter and rapid rehousing program with groceries, cleaning and personal supplies as well as food for its pantry, application fees for apartments, and holding fees to landlords.

Capital Caring Health$20,000

Capital Carings Halquist Center in Arlingtonprovides hospice, palliative care, and counseling to patients and their families. The grant will help Capital Caringexpand support to care at home, hospice, and advanced illness programs by deploying telehealth remote patient monitors in homes.

The Church at Clarendon$10,000

This Baptist church in Clarendon is housed in a multi-use building with eight stories of apartments, 60 percent of which are designated as affordable housing for low-income tenants. The grant will help provide food, rent and mortgage assistance to low-income residents during the crisis.

Computer Core $5,000

Computer CORE provides basic computer skills instruction to low-income unemployed and underemployed adults. The grant will provide direct cash assistance to 16 Arlington residents who were enrolled in the program when classes were paused.

Culpepper Gardens$10,000

Culpepper Gardensis an affordable senior living community with two independent senior living facilities comprised of 267 apartments.The grant will cover food and transportation needs of assisted-living residents as well as additional personal protective and technology equipment.

Doorways for Women and Families$20,000

Doorwayscreates pathways out of homelessness, domestic violence, and sexual assault leading to safe, stable, and empowered lives in Arlington.The grant will support crisis-driven increases in housing assistance and basic client needs, including food, cleaning supplies, baby formula, diapers, and clothes for growing children.

Dream Project $10,000

The Dream Project serves promising young immigrant students through mentoring, scholarships, community-building, and advocacy.The grant will provide emergency financial assistance, including rent, utilities, and groceries for Dream Project students from low-income families.

Edu-Futuro$20,000

Edu-Futuro empowers immigrant and underserved youth and families through mentorship, education, leadership development and parent engagement. The grant will supportrent and food relief to Latino and immigrant families in Arlington.

Ethiopian Community Development Council$20,000

ECDC serves the African immigrant and refugee community through a broad spectrum of local and national programs. The grant willprovide rental assistance to Arlington clients in need of immediate help.

The Fenwick Foundation$5,000

The Fenwick Foundation is focused on improving the quality of life and health of older adults, veterans and active military, individuals with special needsand caregivers. The grant willsupport financial assistance to the very low income and vulnerable assisted living and independent living residents in Arlington.

Friends of Guest House$10,000

Friends of Guest Househelps women successfully reenter the community from incarceration. The grant willprovide food and financial assistance, including rent, utilities, and other emergency purchases to clients, as well as cleaning supplies and protective gear for staff and residents.

Fruitful Planet$10,000

Fruitful Planet is dedicatedto bringingfreshfruits andvegetables to all people. The grant willprovide fresh fruit and vegetables to various Arlington partners serving the community during the crisis.

Hope for the Warriors$10,000

Hope for the Warriorsis a nonprofit veteran service organization that provides assistance to combat wounded service members and their families. The grant will assist approximately20 financially vulnerable veterans and their families with rent/mortgage, utility, car payments, and gift cards for food.

HOPE Multiplied$10,000

Hope Multiplied serves at-risk children, their families, and the homeless in the Metro DC region. The grant will provide high quality, nutritious food to children in Arlingtons Green Valley neighborhood in partnership with Drew Elementary.

La Cocina VA $20,000

La Cocina VA is a bilingual culinary training program for low-income individuals in the Washington DC Metro Area. The grant will support rent, medical needs, and food for approximately 26 Arlington graduates working in restaurants and hotels, many of whom have been laid off.

Legal Aid Justice Center$10,000

The Legal Aid Justice Center partners with communities and clients to achieve justice by dismantling systems that create and perpetuate poverty. The grant will provide food assistance and necessary supplies to immigrants and other clients struggling through the crisis.

Meals on Wheels of Northern VA$5,000

Meals on WheelsofNorthern Virginiaoffers home-delivered food service to Arlington County residents who are homebound or unable to procure or preparemealsfor themselves. The grant willsupport a shift to weekly delivery of flash frozen and shelf stable meals to increases in Arlington residents seeking meal assistance.

Neighborhood Health$5,000

Neighborhood Health improveshealth and advances health equity in Northern Virginia by providing high quality primary care regardless of ability to pay. The grant willsupport medical equipment for patients, PPE and cleaning supplies.

New Hope Housing $5,000

Since 1978, New Hope Housing has been providing a comprehensive array of services to homeless families and single adults in Northern Virginia.The grant will support rent for low-income housed Arlington clients, food and emergency supplies for homeless clients, and security deposits for residents leaving the shelter.

Northern Virginia Family Service$10,000

Northern Virginia Family Servicehelps families and individuals in need create stability and self-sufficiency with a wide range of critical services.The grant will provide food, medicine, rent, and other necessities to Arlington individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.

OAR (Offender Aid and Restoration)$20,000

OAR works with men and women returning to the community from incarceration and offering alternative sentencing options through community service to youth and adults.The grant will help OAR meet the increased need for assistance with rent, medication, food and transportation that program participants returning to Arlington County after incarceration are experiencing because of the health crisis.

Our Lady Queen of Peace Church$10,000

Our Lady Queen of Peace is a Catholic church in Arlington that provides support to vulnerable and in-crisis individuals through its outreach mission. The grant will support the churchs food pantry.

PRS Inc.$10,000

PRSprovides mental health, crisis intervention and suicide prevention services in NorthernVirginiaand Washington, D.C. The grant willprovide personal protective equipment for PRS staff and food, health and financial needs for clients.

Phoenix Houses of the Mid-Atlantic, Inc. $20,000

Phoenix House Mid-Atlantic is an addiction treatment center serving individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The grant will helpcover costs for patients when insurance/personal funds do not completely cover the full course of their prescribed treatment.

Real Food for Kids$10,000

Real Food for Kids collaborates with school communities to improve the quality of school food, and help families make healthy nutritional choices. The grant willsupport their partnership with Bayou Bakery to provide meals to needy families.

Shirlington Employment and Education Center$10,000

SEECis a day labor center facilitating employment and vocational skills of the worker pool. The grant will provide rental assistance and meals purchased from local Latino restaurants to SEECs day laborers.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church$10,000

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church servesthe Rosslyn-Ballston corridor and neighborhoods in the heart of Arlington, as well as the George Mason University Arlington Campus.The grant will augment churchs financial assistance program, which helps Arlington residents to pay rent and utilities.

VHC Pediatrics (Arlington Pediatric Center)$5,000

Virginia Hospital Center Pediatrics offers comprehensive, affordable, quality healthcare in aculturally sensitive environment to children, birth through 18 yearsof age, living in Arlington County with family incomes at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Level. This was a first-day grant for initial emergency assistance.

Views at Clarendon$5,000

The Views at Clarendon, amixed-use building including 70 affordable housing units, is a collaboration between Arlington County, the First Baptist Church of Clarendon, and the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing. The grant will support rental assistance and emergency support for low-income residents.

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington$10,000

The Y provides opportunities in wellness, aquatics, youth sports, summer camp, and childcare.The grant will support the purchase of food and basic household needs for families at its Arlington branch.

VOICE (Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement)$10,000

VOICE is a non-partisan coalition of almost 50 faith communities and civic organizations in Northern Virginia working together to build power in middle and low-income communities. The grant willprovide cash for groceries, medicine, cleaning products, rent, utilities and transportation to low-income Arlington residents during the COVID crisis.

Volunteers of America Chesapeake Inc$10,000

Volunteers of America Chesapeake operates Arlingtons Residential Program Center detox and substance abuse recovery program for single homeless adults. The grant will support the purchase ofsanitation and cleaning supplies, food, personal protection equipment, over-the-counter medications/medical supplies, and personal hygiene supplies/toiletries for its Arlington residents.

Wesley Housing Development Corporation $20,000

Wesley Housing provides safe, quality and affordable housing to residents across the Washington DC metropolitan area. The grant will supportsupplemental food and emergency supply needs for its low-income Arlington residents.

See the original post here:
More than $500000 Distributed to Area Nonprofits from Arlington Community Foundation's COVID-19 Prompt Response Fund - ARLnow

Features Tyrell Gittens 18 Hrs Ago Ain Earle, 35, was diagnosed with in 2004 with alopecia, an autoimmune disease which causes hair loss. - Photo Courtesy Ain Earle

Ain Earle is no stranger to putting in the work needed to redefine how beauty is seen. Living with alopecia, an autoimmune condition causing hair loss, Earle slowly lost all the hair on her body in the five years after a 2004 diagnosis.

For the better part of those years, insecurities were unmasked and the lens through which society thought her to see beauty was adjusted.

Emerging focused and with redefined purpose after overcoming the personal obstacles associated with her Alopecia diagnosis, she now applies that fighting spirit to transform local fashion an important part of her identity.

The fashion industry is so much more than clothing. It is an industry of fashion designers, photographers, models and make-up artistes, said Earle, 35, in an interview with WMN about the desire to see greater growth of TTs fashion industry.

With an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in hospitality from the University of the West Indies, she founded Fashion Arch in 2015 and serves as its lead consultant.

The company was birthed after Earle and a few friends hosted Racked, a series of upmarket-inspired sales event exclusively for fashion designers.

Those small local designers could have stood up to other known designers who were selling in stores, she said of the designers at the event.

Starting with small spots of hair loss at the start of her alopecia condition in 2004, Ain Earle lost all her hair in 2009 as the condition became more severe. In 2011 she was finally able to accept her condition and pursue her goals which included helping to develop TT's fashion industry. - Photo Courtesy Ain Earle

While the designs were good, during her concurrent work in the field of marketing at the time of hosting the events she noticed that many designers didnt fully understand the workings of a sustainable and marketable fashion brand.

Under the motto Creating legacies through connectivity, emerging fashion designers are taught topics like branding, social media strategies and developing business strategy, through interactive workshops.

Clients fashion pieces have been given the opportunity to be showcased at fashion events in Barbados, Guyana, St Vincent, Jamaica and the US.

It has been a whirlwind thinking of the initial plan for the Fashion Arch. It was just supposed to be one on one consultations.

I didnt think over the last few years I would have been doing all of the service offerings. At least it has shown what I am offering is needed and people are actually interested in the services.

Playing her part, she is proud to see to overall growth in the local fashion industry. Fashion events have evolved to be a year-round product while support has expanded to include local entertainers and state agencies like FashionTT.

We must push locally towards more collaboration from all fields of the industry in terms of what people are doing.

Yet, more work needs to be done and she is up for the task. Currently, TTs representative to The Collection MoDA, a fashion event series in Jamaica, the work of local designers has been displayed at the event.

Ain Earle's message is simple: women are more than their hair or perceived physical beauty. - Photo Courtesy Ain Earle

In recent years she has secured the support of FashionTT and Caribbean Export to help maintain and increase TTs presence at the event.

They (local designers) dont have to worry about flights and accommodation (to Jamaica).

They just give me the pieces and I help put together a booth area at the event where the pieces are exhibited.

In 2018, she was invited to conduct branding workshops at the Caribbean Style, Culture Awards and Fashion Showcase hosted in Washington DC. Meeting a Guyanese designer at the event, she was invited to Guyana and spoke at a 2019 leadership conference titled Empowering to Lead with Confidence for students in the countrys creative sector.

In August, she is expected to host workshops at this years edition of the event. Her work was recently highlighted and promoted by Rare Bird, a UK-based blog with a focus on marketing.

Fulfilling life-long goals of taking TTs potential to the world through fashion and other avenues, her alopecia condition continues to be championed. This is not done to be defined by the condition but to remind others that what may look like obstacles can be sources of strength.

We put so much pressure and substance into womens hair or how they look. For me, losing my hair felt like I was losing my femininity. Recalling the shame, she felt while losing her hair, she said, I tied my head just trying to stay out of peoples way in terms of questions. Around 2011 was when I was able to accept what was going on.

One day in 2011, I couldnt find a head tie when I was supposed to go somewhere. I decided to just go bald.

Choosing not to be defined the condition, her message is simple women are more than their hair or perceived physical beauty. This message is echoed in Bald Beauty, a group she founded in 2018 with a focus on empowerment, awareness, advocacy and support for those with the condition.

The journey to creating the group started on the day she accepted her bald beauty in 2011. The power in self-acceptance became clearer when a friends teenage daughter with Alopecia saw her posting bald headed pictures on social media and felt empowered. She noted the effect of something that simple which inspired her to create an avenue to help other people with Alopecia overcome self-doubt.

In 2015, Earle founded Fashion Arch to help local fashion designers develop their business models. She has since helped local designers become featured in fashion events in countries like Barbados, Guyana, St Vincent, Jamaica and the US. - Photo Courtesy Ain Earle

The group provides information about the condition and is a safe space to discuss any issues. The groups logo- a lotus flower- represents coming out of the mud and blossoming into something beautiful.

Examples like her success in fashion and recent marriage are used to show others with the condition that losing ones hair is nothing else but another obstacle to overcome.

Asked about being a newlywed and the journey of finding love with the condition, she was elated to share her story. This she says is yet another example to show that beauty has no boundaries, and everyone is beautiful in their own unique way.

If you are looking for someone and they are making it (the alopecia) an issue then that is obviously not the right person for you.

At the end of the day it is just hair and not you. It is a part of you yes, but it doesnt define

you.

Her journey to marriage is a testament to the statement. Her husband would have attended the same secondary school and particularly took notice when she grew dreads.

While he would have witnessed her transition from dreadlocks to hair loss, he was unphased.

We met 17 years ago just before this entire thing (with Alopecia) started.

He was always around. We were friends before anything else, lost touch in between but he was always there.

And while she settles into happily wedded bliss, one can look forward to Earle expanding her fashion vision for TT by hosting more workshops and outdoor events under the Fashion Arch brand. There also plants to work on a West Indian fashion/textile expo and establish a virtual showroom.

More here:
Ain Earle makes her mark on TT's fashion industry - Trinidad News

Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly and rightfully stated that the fight against the CoronaVirus is no less than a war. He invoked the 18 days battle in the epic Mahabharata to posit the dharmayuddha (just war) that can be metaphorically contextualised to justify the inevitable sufferings caused by such a war in the 21st century.

Given the syncretic-civilisational-philosophical bent of the nation, galvanising the morale and spirits of the nation by beseeching popular codes of culturalism, has a leadership function. In his speech after ordering the invasion of Iraq, US President George W Bush found a place for the classic American philosopher and theorist, Thomas Paines quote, These are the times that try men's souls.

War-time leadership is essentially distinct from standard peace-time leadership, not lesser or more, just plain different. The Armed Forces understand the distinction of combat-leadership that does not naturally accrue to seniority or the winning side as, despite the Nazi defeat the Panzer Generals like Rommel, Manstien, Guderian etc. are recognised for their combat brilliance, as indeed, the maverick American General George Patton. In the Indian context, Generals Manekshaw, Harbaksh or the unsung Sagat Singh, who is acknowledged as Indias finest combat commander, are the sort of war-time leaders who may or may not have made it to the top job in service.

However, in political leadership winning is almost everything, as also, ensuring that the ultimate benefits of the war outweigh the price paid by the common citizenry. The complexities, angularities and sensitivities of war-time leadership by the political leaders are of a more asymmetric nature that necessitates the highest level of professional understanding, maturity and statesmanship that is rarely tested in peacetimes.

The means deployed to win the war are also pertinent, as leaders like Joseph Stalin or Mao Zedong may have ended up on the winning side, but their ruthlessness and sheer brutality against their own, made them ignoble examples of war-time leadership.

Even the still popular and two-time US President Barack Obama will find himself struggling with his war-time record, as it had been less than spectacular with the indecisive, lingering and prohibitively expensive legacy that he passed on to his more, less-than-capable successor, Donald Trump.

So, war-time leaders are certainly brewed differently as they require a certain disposition, aura and mannerism that may actually be counter-productive in peacetimes Winston Churchill and Indra Gandhi are shining examples of indisputable war-time leaders who gave their respective nations proverbial finest hours in wars, but were soon rejected by the electorate.

Above all, the leaders who pass muster during war-times are always assessed for their ability to galvanise the entirety of a nation towards the justness of actions required, irrespective of previous political divides and perceptions.

Secondly upholding the cause and concern of all (not just the majority) and accomplishing the end-results, without shifting the goal post becomes imperative.

Third, history always assesses if the leader put the most competent and qualified resources to fight the war, or if the leadership persisted with personally-loyal, politically-non-threatening and underqualified generals on the battle ground.

Fourth, maintaining a peripheral vision and concern for the obvious and unobvious sufferers of the war and the ability to still win, whilst, getting the least bruised and wounded as a society, is critical.

Last and perhaps the least appreciated test of the leaders is their ability to go beyond their previous or peace-time actions to convince the nation at large of their personal intent (or neeyat in Hindustani) that goes beyond their political instinct, urgency and ambitions the test of personal character is at its peak, as even those who opposed him/her earlier look up to the leader for reassurances, and only a true statesman survives this test.

Two aspects of Churchills leadership puts him in the pantheon of great war-time leaders, even if his outlook towards dominions like the Indian sub-continent, was certainly questionable and racist. His first action on becoming the Prime Minister at the outbreak of WW2 was to induct leaders of all parties like Atlee, Sinclair and Chamberlain in to a coalition government (he even took rival Labour leader Atlee with him to the Potsdam Conference). Most importantly, Churchills passion towards winning the war was so resolute and committed that he did so, at the cost of his own partys interest or concerns not for him, was an eye fixated at electoral prospects, at all times.

Another aspect of war-times leaders is their inherent humility and acceptance of the fact that they need to listen to professionals and plan accordingly. Beyond her obvious iron-will, Indira Gandhi showed deference, respect and statecraft when she took the push-back from Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, who sought time, wares and provision, before making the decisive move. War-time leadership is as much about tenacity, as it is about empowerment, equanimity and instilling confidence, in all.

Some war-time political leaders like Woodrow Wilson may have been on the winning side in WW1, but he goes down in the annals of history as the one who crippled the American economy in the bargain, diminished civil liberties and made gargantuan mistakes that were to sow the seeds of unrest, domestically and internationally.

Others like Lyndon Johnson who typified the cowboy tactics of intending to bludgeon the Vietnamese till they cry uncle, was misplaced muscularity and bravado, that sometimes afflicts leaderships in democracies.

Whereas, Nelson Mandela presided over a leadership challenge that had all portents of an imminent war of revenge he wisely chose the more difficult, less-politically attractive path, but the one that led to sustainable peace and progress, thereafter. Mandelas signature Truth and Reconciliation Commission is a model leadership move that ended a sure war prematurely, in a poignant, dignified and reconciliatory way.

Our war against the Covid-19 is both, similar and different, from the previous understandings of war, but is undoubtedly more than a conventional war in terms of potential devastation and price for all. This begs a different level of leadership skills, inclusivity-challenges and the visible showing of the intent (neeyat), then was perhaps required, ever before.

Will we meet those requirements, or will we still play by the previous rules of engagement, only time will tell?

Leaders will have to become statesman this will require a different touch, language and reach-out, hitherto, unseen or ever-deployed. Indeed invoking cultural codes and symbolism are important and required, but history suggests the accompaniment of far more substantive, profound, inclusive and measurable imperatives that go into the making of great war-time leaders.

Lt General Bhopinder Singh (Retd) is former Lt Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands & Puducherry.

See more here:
'War-time' Leadership in the Covid 19 Era - The Citizen

Apr. 08 /CSRwire/ - Cisco Blogs | Corporate Social Responsibility

We know that the most vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by the economic impacts of global crises, and continue to be impacted after a crisis is over. Those who are unemployed or underemployed. Small business owners. Women. The poor. People who are un/underbanked. At Cisco, we bring to bear all our available resources our funding, our technology, and our expertise to support nonprofit organizations that have technology-based solutions to connect the unconnected and help people become economically self-sufficient.

Ciscos model of investing in innovative organizations with early-stage, technology-based initiatives means that our nonprofit partners are already using technology to deliver many of their programs and services. This has enabled them to quickly pivot to deliver different types of services to address new and emerging needs, and also to rapidly accelerate their reach to meet increased needs of the individuals and communities they are serving.

These are some of nonprofits Cisco supports through our economic empowerment portfolio, and how they are responding to support people and communities in need right now:

Skills Training

Anudip:Provides technology skills training, professional development skills, mentoring, and employment opportunities to low-income and underserved populations (youth, women, people with disabilities) in India, delivered both face-to-face and online. Cisco has supportedAnudips work with cash grant investments, donations of WebEx and other Cisco technologies, and our expertise.How are they helping?Anudip has temporarily transitioned their services to 100 percent remote learning.

AnnieCannons:Provides technology skills training, professional development skills, mentoring, and employment opportunities to survivors of human trafficking in the Bay Area of California. We have supported AnnieCannons with cash grant investments, and donations of WebEx and other Cisco technologies.How are they helping?AnnieCannons has temporarily transitioned its online technology skills training to 100% remote learning. In addition, their staff have increased their outreach to human trafficking and domestic violence survivors who are particularly vulnerable during times of crises.

Upwardly Global (UpGlo):Provides training and support to skilled refugees and immigrants to eliminate barriers and help them integrate into the professional American workforce. Cisco has supported this work via an initial cash grant investment, and we are partnering to support virtual networking and mentoring opportunities with our employees.How are they helping?UpGlo is scaling its online skills training and job readiness resources, enhancing virtual coaching and volunteer services, and helping clients find immediate jobs in high demand areas like healthcare.

Financial Inclusion

Opportunity International (Opportunity):Provides financial products (regular and emergency loans, savings accounts, insurance) and services (capacity building for entrepreneurs, educators, farmers, and financial literacy training) to low income populations in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. With Cisco support,Opportunitydesigned, implemented, and scaled mobile enabled financial products and services to more than 20 million people across Africa and Asia.How are they helping?Access to these types of financial products and services is critically important for vulnerable populations who now are unemployed or without a steady source of income.

Kiva:Expands financial access through its peer-to-peer lending platform that enables individuals to make interest-free loans to students and entrepreneurs globally. Small businesses are already being negatively impacted by the spread of COVID-19, including many members of the Kiva community.How are they helping?In the United States, Kiva isofferinglarger loans, flexible repayment schedules, and expanded eligibility. They are working to provide support to their partner financial institutions and individuals outside the United States.

Social Enterprise

Vispala:Started by the CEO of Anudip, Vispala uses 3D printing technology to print low cost prosthetic arms for underserved populations in India. Cisco provided early stage funding to help them develop and test their products, scale, and become a financially sustainable social enterprise.How are they helping?They have now pivoted their focus to 3D printing surgical masks for healthcare providers.

NESsT:NESsT develops sustainable social enterprises that solve critical social problems in emerging market economies, likePIXED, a Peruvian social enterprise that manufactures 3D-printed prosthetics.How are they helping?PIXEDhas shifted its manufacturing of prostheses into personal protective equipment (PPE) for physicians and hospitals in Peru. NESsT is working closely with PIXED management (and all of its portfolio companies) to create contingency plans that address short- and longer-term needs that must be addressed during an impending global recession.

To accelerate global problem solving, we need financially sustainable solutions that address different issues in different parts of the world. Thats why Cisco invests in early-stage solutions that leverage technology to create meaningful impact at scale.

Our nonprofit partners in economic empowerment are able to quickly adapt to the way they serve others in order to address the biggest challenges that we face. To learn more about these amazing nonprofits and how you can get involved, please visit oureconomic empowermentpage.

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How Cisco's Nonprofit Partners Are Pivoting and Innovating to Address Unexpected Needs - CSRwire.com

The name Aliko Dangote needs no introduction across the length and breadth of Nigeria. While some believe it is a household name, others believe the bearer has a stake across all the sectors of the economy.

That Aliko Dangote has been able to hold on to the position of the richest man in Africa for 10 years is a pointer to the fact that he has achieved several enviable feats.

How is it that one man has been able to hold the position consistently for the last 10 years?

Not a few people have the above questions in their minds, and indeed it is one that is worth asking. Alhaji Aliko Dangote has managed to pull this feat by the sheer effort of personal, business decisions and actions he has taken over the years.

[READ MORE: Top 10 CEOs and how they spent 10 days in lockdown)

So, what exactly are those things he has done over the last decade? We certainly cannot consider all, but let us start by x-raying 10 fantastic things this billionaire has done in the last ten years, as he celebrates his 63rd birthday.

In 2011, Dangote invested a massive $400 million in the construction of a cement plant, and also invested R779 million to increase the Dangote Industries Limited stakes in Sephaku Cement (Pty) Limited, based in South Africa, from 19.76% to 64%.

His investment into the South Africa-based cement company was described as the largest foreign direct investment (FDI) ever by an African company in South Africa at the time.

If the Dangote Industries was not already present in 14 African countries at the time, one would have thought the man was in a heated race for the gold.

Keep in mind that the Dangote Group had already been listed among the top 40 African Challengers by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), a United States-based rating agency; the agency had already seen the potential in the Dangote Group to rival Fortune 500 Companies.

Now isnt this fantastic?

Back home in Nigeria in 2012, Dangote Cement moved to erect the biggest cement plant in Africa in Southwest Nigeria.

The most amazing thing is the fact that this rich billionaire spent $1 billion on what the Guardian referred to as a century-old wasteland of limestone and red dirt in south-west Nigeria.

Some must have turned their noses up at this move, possibly thinking of him as one of those money miss road, but 9 years after, the Dangote Cement plant, Ibese in Ogun state accounts for over 6 million metric tonnes of cement, which translates to more money for the billionaire over the years.

With this in place and the creating of new lines at Dangote Cement Plant, Obajana, he ended the era of cement import and launched Nigeria into cement export.

He was already richest black man in the world at the time and ranked 76 in the world by Forbes magazine.

[READ ALSO: Adenuga has redeemed N1billion pledge to the CACOVID fund- Otedola)

Dangote moved to assert his place in sugar production when in February 2013, the Dangote Sugar Refinery announced plans to acquire 95% equity stake in Savannah Sugar Company limited, SSC.

The deal was executed through a Share Sale and Purchase Agreement, SSPA, and Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) acquired 95% of the issued share capital of Savanna Sugar, amounting to 2.14 billion ordinary shares of N1.00 each.

This was about the same time the Nigerian government designed the backward integration goal, the National Sugar Master Plan to attract over $1 billion annually in local and foreign direct investments and create jobs.

Also, recall that April 2013 was the first time the mogul announced his intention to build a private refinery in Nigeria, to reduce Nigerias dependence on importation of petroleum products.

Such big dreams!!!

Aliko Dangote in 2015 signed a mammoth deal with Chinese state-owned engineering company, SINOMA, to build factories for Dangote Cement Plc.

The deal was worth $4.3 billion (2.8 billion), and seven plants to be built across the continent and one in Nepal. It was not just another avenue to spend money, as the billionaire had done the calculation and expected the new plants to increase the companys production capacity by as much as 25 million metric tonnes.

Great plans for his home country, no doubt!

As a result of the sizeable investments made over the years, Dangote Cement ended 2014 with new lines in Nigeria, factories becoming operational in Senegal and South Africa, and other plants in Cameroon and Zambia. This increased production capacity from just under 21 million tonnes in January to more than 34 million tonnes at the end of the year.

This was an unprecedented rate of expansion and the company went ahead to open new factories in Ethiopia and Tanzania in the following year.

The Dangote Foundation remains one of the most heart-touching innovations of Aliko Dangote. It is the largest foundation in Africa and has an annual endowment of $1.25 billion. The foundation is described as locally focused, but globally-minded and has contributed millions to improve nutrition, health, education and economic empowerment in Nigeria.

The foundation is a lead contributor to the Saving One Million Lives every year in Nigeria and was at the forefront of efforts to contain the spread of Ebola in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. The foundation was the biggest private contributor to the African Union Ebola Trust Fund with a donation of $3 million.

The foundation also partnered Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to eradicate polio in Nigeria by strenghtening primary health care and making provisions for routine immunization across Northern Nigeria. The initial project commenced in Kano and Bauchi states. In January 2016, Sokoto, Yobe, Kaduna and Borno States were added to the partnership, with over $10 Million spent.

The Aliko Dangote Foundation Micro-grant programme is a N10 Billion programme designed to provide a N10,000 one-off grant to at least 1,000 vulnerable women, and in some cases, youths, in each of the 774 LGAs across Nigeria. it is national programme launched in Kano in 2011 and is being systemically rolled out across the country. The programme is being implemented in partnership with states government to complement their respective poverty alleviation drive across the country.

So far, the sum of N3.345 Billion has been disbursed to women across Kano, Jigawa, Kogi, Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Lagos, Niger and Nasarawa States.

Also, in continuation of its efforts to rehabilitate and resettle the Internally Displaced People in the Northeast, Nigeria, the Aliko Dangote Foundation commissioned 200 Housing Units of the Dangote Village Housing Estate for the Internally Displaced Persons in Maiduguri, Borno State, with Award Letters issued to the chosen beneficiaries mostly widows with dependents.

In support of this laudable action by the Foundation, the State Government made provision for each family to be given economic empowerment tools to sustain their livelihood adding a fully functional school and a clinic to cater for the residents of the estate.

The impact of this foundation over the years can hardly be wrapped into a few paragraphs, but it has been a major contributor to alleviating poverty, just as the philanthropist billionaire intended.

The year 2018 was a significant one for the Dangote Group. Aliko Dangote did the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of a rice processing plant in Jigawa the culmination of a series of events that started a couple of years earlier.

He had signed a $1 billion agreement with the Federal Government for the integrated rice production in Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano, Niger and Jigawa.

The multi-billion processing mill had the capacity, upon completion, to process 16 tonnes of paddy rice per hour, totalling to about 14-billion-naira worth of rice per year.

It was a much-celebrated event for the year, as the rice mill was expected to improve the lives of the residents since the raw products would be bought from local farmers in Jigawa. The end aim is to make Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production.

We can expect more from this billionaire in this regard, as he has announced in recent times, his intention to do more in agriculture.

Dangote Cement Nigeria increased the groups revenue in 2018 by over 10%, simply by creating favourable fuel mix at the cement plants at Obajana and Ibese. With these unprecedented innovations, the group cut out reliance on imported coal for both plans and started using coals from mines operated by the Dangote Industries Limited.

The impact of this was seen largely on foreign currency demands, thus pushing the companys revenues. Subsequently, all eight kilns in Obajana and Ibese have been running on coal, gas or LPFO or a mixture of the three. Im sure you didnt know that.

And lets no forget that stunt he pulled when he bought back Dangote flour mills, the loss-making business he sold for $200 million to Tiger Brands, only to resell it to Olams years later for $362 million

2019 was the year of consolidating on the refinery plans which had long commenced. The peak of it all was the arrival of the specially configured facility which Dangote had since requested to be made.

The facility, which was built by Sinopec, Chinas leading energy and chemical company, has been described as the largest in the world and has since been installed at the Dangote refinery.

The Atmospheric tower is expected to separate crude oil into its components (or distillation cuts, distillation fractions) for further processing by other processing units when the refinery starts full operations later this year.

According to the mogul, the refinery will within 18 months of operation, be able to meet Nigerias demand for petroleum products, and soon after become the largest exporter of petroleum products in Africa.

Experts support this prediction, adding that Nigeria could become Africas biggest producer and exporter of refined petroleum and gas products, including plastics, fertilizer, jet fuel, diesel and gasoline. This is expected to lift the economy of the entire continent. Amazing, right?

[READ FURTHER: Dangote, Otedola, Elumelu, Ovia, others donate N19.48 billion to COVID-19 relief fund)

Very fresh on our minds is the donation of N2 billion naira and other materials to the Private Sector Coalition against COVID-19, just some weeks ago. It signified the tycoons willingness to partner with the Central Bank of Nigeria, and private sector participants, to alleviate some of the hardships which the pandemic is sure to inflict on Nigeria.

Just weeks before this, he had donated N100 million worth of materials after the Abule-ado explosion to help in rebuilding the destroyed buildings.

You may feel like we have said much here, but we have not even made mention of the infrastructural facilities he built across tertiary institutions in the country the construction of a N1.2 Billion Dangote Business School, Bayero University Kano, or the construction of hostels or provisions of power supply at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna state and Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State.

So much has not been said.

The year is still very young with only 101 days gone, theres still a lot more fantastic things that could happen this year. Keep in mind that the billionaire also has plans to buy Arsenal FC, and take the Nigerian flag all over the world.

Read more:
10 fantastic things Aliko Dangote has done in the last 10 years | - Nairametrics

Australia's celebrated international beauty queen, Robbie Canner is on the hunt for successors after taking over the reins of the Australian and New Zealand arm of the prestigious international Ms World pageant - and she wishes to introduce her first 15 national finalists! Coming from all walks of life, cultures (Australian indigenous, Fijian, Afghan, Kenyan, Burmese, Filippino, Kiwi - but to name a few!) and backgrounds, Robbie Canner is committed to ensuring the Ms Australia and New Zealand World is an inclusive pageant welcoming and embracing women from all walks of life.

"My aim is for all women of Australia and New Zealand to be represented in the World pageant," said Ms Canner.

The Australian and New Zealand finals of the internationally-renowned pageant, which were set to be held in May, have been postponed to 28-30 August, 2020 at the Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport Hotel & Conference Centre, and is open to all ladies 26 years and over and of any status.

"I decided to take on the role of director because the World pageant has been fantastic for me and I wanted to give back to all ladies 26 and over to have the same opportunities as I have had so the inaugural pageant is here, and with New Zealand so close I decided to have them join so we can grow World," said Ms Canner, who resides in Sydney.

The pageant is a charity event for Tour de Cure Australia, and more specifically, the Scott Canner Young Investigator Grant (named after Robbie's late son who lost his battle to non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2011 at the age of 22), which helps fund the research of up-and-coming cancer researchers. More than 750K in grants have been awarded thus far. The Ms World platform is NOWSA - National Organization for Women's Safety Awareness.

"The World pageant system is all about the entrant. No platform or charity is a requirement although we welcome entrants to share their chosen charities and platforms with us, if they have one," said Ms Canner.

"All the World queens are coming from the US for the gala evening in August 2020, and most of the judges will be international judges."

Major sponsor, huntmaster has generously supported the event, offering the four major winners, Ms Australia World and Ms Australia World Elite and Ms New Zealand World and Ms New Zealand World Elite entry to the prestigious Ms World Pageant 2020 from 13-16 October, 2020 in Las Vegas, United States of America as well as accommodation, food, beverages and return economy flights.

"I would love all ladies to enter - the more the merrier! Come join us - its a fantastic ride," said Ms Canner.

During her reign as Ms World 2018/19, Ms Canner proved that age really is just a number, from beating out beauties from 22 different countries aged 26 and up - to walking the prestigious New York Fashion Week in February 2019 as the one of the oldest models to grace the runway.

For more information, or interview/photo requests, please contact:

Joanne Rahn

Director

zanthii communications

Phone: 0402 148 334

Email: joanne@zanthii.com

Darrylin Gordon

Halls Creek, WA

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Ms Australia World 2020 national finalist, Darrylin Gordon is an Indigenous farmer from Halls Creek in Western Australia's Kimberley region, who came to prominence after her appearance in the Visible Farmer documentary series. The Visible Farmer project put the spotlight on two pressing issues: gender equality and food security, both which are vital for the future of Australia. The goal of the unique documentary series was to change perceptions and inspire new generations of women to help shape the future of Australia's sustainable food production. "I like what the pageant stands for and as an Aboriginal woman, I hope to be able to create understanding and awareness of the issues faced by our First Nations women whilst promoting reconciliation through my representation," said Ms Gordon. "The pageant platform provides a much greater audience where women from all over the country can come together and share our stories, our diversity and our passion that drives us to be the strong women we are, building a strong foundation to advocate for women from all walks of life. "The cause I am most passionate about is advocating for social change for our First Nations people 'Working together for a better future'."

Chantelle O'Donohoe

30 years old

Sydney, NSW

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Chantelle is an inspiration and role model for all. She has a strong passion for raising funds and awareness for childrens medical services as well as childrens education. Being a proud Nukunu Aboriginal woman, Chantelle has a sincere concern for bridging the gap within the education of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians. Chantelle works at a not-for-profit organisation where she shares her knowledge in emerging technologies with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities nationally. Outside of her full-time employment, Chantelle is a mother who raises awareness for social issues and injustices, and is an advocate for several organisations and programs including donating over 600 hours of her personal time to volunteering. Whilst Chantelle is passionate about many causes and loves to volunteer her time, the one cause that particularly concerns her at this time is the increasing gap between the education of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians. Particularly within the STEM related subjects of maths, science, technology and engineering. Throughout Chantelle's career, she has been lucky to now find herself in a position where she is able to give back to this cause and put systems and workshops in place to assist in closing the (educational) gap. After years of researching how to best assist, she found herself taking on a role to teach emerging Technology skills to mob in community all over our beautiful country. Within this role, she teaches skills in caring for country with drones, how to build and code robots, how to preserve culture through digital art, digital storytelling and apps, as well as passing on knowledge on how to open online stories and market themselves which in turn leads them to further independence and becoming self-sufficient in business. She also encourage mob (women particularly) to not only finish High School but also to seek out higher education, and provides them with the pathways available to do so. For 2020, Chantelle has also been issued with an acceptance to the Teachers of STEM initiative and will be returning to University to achieve her Bachelors degrees in both Education and Science Engineering. She has a long term plan to continue her work within community and have partnerships in place with the government and local universities to provide assistance and consultation on how to best address the issue of the educational gap.

Maria Perera

29 years old

Melbourne, VIC

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Maria is a female director/CEO in civil construction. She comes from a legal background and working in construction was not at all a planned event. In fact, not a lot of people were supportive of her move at the time given not many women were in that specific field. In 2015, Maria fell into construction and built her company from the ground up. She is now an ambassador for women in construction, and industry mentor at RMIT University for female students entering male-dominated industries. Maria has been featured as a Top 100 Woman in construction, and was a speaker at the Sydney Build Expo 2020 on to the topic of diversity in construction, and has also been confirmed as a speaker at the forthcoming Tedx Sydney event. Maria's goal is to promote diversity and female empowerment and uses any available platform to collaborate, and empower, other women.

Cole Sialeipata

27 years old

Central Coast, NSW

Ms New Zealand World 2020 National Finalist

Cole Sialeipata was born and raised in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, and unlike many others, Cole has experienced a number of things in her short 28 years of life most wouldnt think was possible to continue life from - domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness and much more. Cole lived in Christchurch for most of her life until Christchurch was struck with the traumatic 7.1 Earthquake in 2010. Losing almost everything in a short amount of minutes including her life which happened to be saved after deciding to sleep the other way around that night where a TV crushed her feet instead of her head, Cole decided to leave New Zealand and pursue an internship at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida for seven months. With the second earthquake in 2011 leaving next to nothing, Cole had nothing to go back to and decided not to get on her flight back home to New Zealand, and instead stayed in Australia to pursue a whole new beginning. This beginning didnt start off to the greatest but with everything Cole always found the silver lining in things. Cole was homeless, unable to find employment or a safe place to stay. Cole made her way to the Central Coast of New South Wales to a friends' house she had met in the United States who offered her a place to stay. From there, Cole found employment and was able to save and get her own little shoebox apartment and start her life journey. Cole worked in various community sector roles, however still felt like there was something missing in her career and life. Cole eventually got employed by local NGO Coast Shelter working as a support worker for homeless youth. A light lit up in Cole and it was then her passion for her community ignited. Cole has studied her Diploma in Community Service, Homelessness Services and Mental Health. For the past five years, Cole has been actively helping her community at work but also voluntarily. Conducting fundraising events, food drives, social groups, mentorships roles in high schools, and recently joined Womens Justice Network. Cole has been recognised by the NSW government for her community development achievements and was nominated for the 7News Young Achiever awards for 2020. Cole has raised over $20,000 for her community, and is also the founder of Charity Project Aria and has launched her first pilot program to equip disadvantaged women with various skills who have experienced domestic violence. The program has been designed to help and support women to reintegrate back into their communities better equipped after leaving DV environments. As a Ms New Zealand World 2020 national finalist, Cole hopes to encourage women to be nothing less than themselves in their own beautiful way. Women, just like flowers, trees, the ocean and a rainbow, they have their own beauty.

Nicole Smith

50 years old

Gold Coast, QLD

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Have courage and be kind, These are Cinderellas words that Nicole Smith tries to live by everyday. Nicole studied dance on the Gold Coast in Australia and at Michigan State University in the USA, before gaining for her teachers qualification in London, England. She was a teacher and then co-director within the Gold Coast Ballet in the late 80's up until 1995. Besides dance, Nicole was also involved in many theatre productions in Australia. She also works extremely hard everyday in her professional career as a Registered Nurse. Nicole started a not-for-profit dance studio called "Terricky Dancers" in Rural Western Australia in 2009. The dance school gave many local and indigenous children free or highly subsidised dance classes. During this time Nicole became involved in her first pageant called "The Boab Quest". Nicole placed 2nd runner up after raising $15,200. This money was used to buy sports equipment and to provide breakfast programs for children who would otherwise have gone to school hungry. After the passing of her husband in 2012, Nicole and her daughter Rebekah found pageantry again. Nicole helped her daughter Rebekah compete in Australia, England, France and the United States. Nicole knew she wanted to do more to help and give back to the community. She wanted to speak out about causes she is passionate about such as the Haemophilia Foundation of Queensland. Because of this, Nicole is so excited to take her experience as performer, dance teacher and pageant mother to the next step of competing in the Ms Australia World and Ms New Zealand World pageant. She believes the pageant world is filled with people dedicated to making improvements in themselves and the world around them every day, and she strives to be one of those people.

Em Hardwicke

45 years old

Jindabyne (Snowy Mountains), NSW

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Em Hardwicke of regional New South Wales, was motivated to enter the inaugural Ms Australia & Ms New Zealand World 2020 pageant to raise funds for cancer research and and finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes, and also to advocate for women's safety, anti-bullying and suicide prevention. Em spent years in an emotionally abusive relationship without even realising it, but considers herself one of the lucky ones. Em has always believed that every woman and every person has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. She believes no woman deserves to be sexually, physically, mentally or emotionally abused or assaulted. No woman deserves to be disrespected or mistreated. Em wants to be part of the change and use her voice to share the National Organzation for Womens Safety Awareness (NOWSA) message, vision and mission of educating and advocating for social change. "As a mother to a nearly 6 year old boy, I strongly believe I have a responsibility to teach my son that mistreating and/or disrespecting a woman in any way, at any age or in any circumstance is unacceptable," said Em. "I also want to instil in him a strength to not stand by and watch someone being mistreated or abused. I want to teach him to use his voice and speak up for someone who may not feel they have a voice of their own. By teaching our children, our sons, to treat women with respect from an early age and to encourage our fathers, brothers, uncles and friends to lead by example, only then can we expect to see things change." "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." James Baldwin.

Analieze Bella Newton

51 years old

Sydney, NSW

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Analieze entered her first national pageant at 49 years of age after seeing Mrs Earth Australia 2017, Suzi Dent on Channel 7s Sunrise proudly talking about her experience. Analieze came across the Miss Diamond Australia pageant, which was promoted as being different to other pageants. There were no age, height or weight restrictions, and it was based in Brisbane, Australia. Analieze entered Miss Diamond Australia in 2017, and was crowned Miss Diamond Australia Classic 2018 in April 2018 at 50 years of age. Analieze has used pageantry as a platform to advocate for diabetes, being a sufferer herself, and has even had toes amputated due tp the illness. She is an incredible humanitarian, spending all her time raising awareness for Charity and helping at homeless feeds. As an adult, Analieze was a single mother for many years; she might not have been homeless but she has experienced having to line up for food vouchers at charity organisations to be able to feed herself and sometimes needed help to have her dues paid. These were not her happiest years but by having been in this situation herself where she needed help she realises how important it is to be able to give back and help people less fortunate. Prior to pageantry, Analieze was a lost soul, a ghost. pageantry has changed her life, she now sits on the judging panel at pageants around Australia and the world, and is a bit of a celebrity. Analieze migrated to Australia from the Philippines at the age of 18 and resides in West Ryde in New South Wales, Australia. She works as a legal secretary, and is a proud mother to her son, Sean.

Pan Sandar Myint

28 year old

Sydney, NSW

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Pan Sandar Myint was born in Myanmar with Rohingya Burmese background. Pan graduated high school with 92% and gained entrance to study Medicine in 2008. But Pan still pursued to study abroad because of not getting equal human rights for being Rohingya in Myanmar. Pan graduated with a Diploma of Business at TAFE in 2010 which led her to finish her Accounting degree within two years & six months. After working in the accounting industry for a while, Pan realised the professional didn't suit her friendly & bubbly personality so she decided to change careers and now enjoys a successful career in the migration industry. Coming from the most prosecuted ethnic Rohingya in the 21st century, Pan strongly advocates on following the path of tolerance to save humanitarian value. Due to her strong passion of humanitarian rights, Pan was awarded a scholarship from Change the World United Nations as a delegate of Angola for the 2019 Path Of Tolerance campaign held at NYU University (Abu Dhabi). With no experience in modelling, fashion or beauty pageanty, Pan joined the Ms World Australian pageant as a platform to advocate equal human rights and to save humanitarian value by following the path of tolerance. Due to Pan's strong advocacy for Equal Rights of her Rohingya Community, she has appeared on several news media outlets (SBS Australia Burma, Friends World TV, Radio Free Air Asia and Pak Awaaz). Pan is extremely grateful to represent Australia by enjoying priceless moments with her beautiful pageant family, their strong support & love.

Diana Omuoyo

42 years old

Sydney, NSW

Ms New Zealand World 2020 National Finalist

Ms New Zealand World 2020 National Finalist Diana Omuoyo is a Kenyan native, and has travelled and lived in several countries over the years and this continues to be a big part of her life. She currently works as a Solution Engineer for a global IT company, and has been living in Australia since January 2019. Moving is exhilarating in a lot of ways but starting over on your own with no family or friends is always tough. The kindness & generosity of others, has been Diana's saving grace. Her involvement and engagement with the community gives her that sense of belonging, has been instrumental in shaping her professional career and tremendously helped with her personal growth - giving her the courage and confidence to use her voice. Through the many lifes challenges and lessons, Diana has learnt that every little gesture that helps spread positivity, togetherness and that brightens anothers day is always worth it. It is because of this that she often volunteers for a broad spectrum of causes as her way of participating, supporting & giving back to the community around her. Over time, Diana has been involved with various organisations in varying capacities: -Corporate diversity groups - committee member for various diversity and social groups within corporate organizations including Womens empowerment groups, Women in Technology forums & African American diversity groups -New Zealand Red Cross - Committee member for Wellington chapter, headed the Refugee Pack program and participated in various community and fund-raising initiatives. These and other efforts by the New Zealand Red Cross were recognized at the Volunteer Connect Award where I was honored to be presented with a Volunteer of the Year Award. -STEM organizations o Girl Geek Dinner - hosted and presented at various events across the US, NZ and Australia. o Volunteered at various initiatives for organizations like the ITP Professionals [NZ], inKIND [NZ], Summer of Tech [NZ], Girls who Code [AU] Outside of work, Diana has been fortunate to have opportunities to pursue various other interests and passions: -Acting - roles in commercials & featured extra roles in movie, and as a video game character -Modelling - Print & catwalk modelling including corporate shoots and a Miss Universe charity event -Public Speaking - presenter and speaker at various tech conferences & events across US, NZ and AU Diana joined the Ms. New Zealand World Pageant because It is a great platform to raise awareness for worthy causes and share with like-minded women across the country.

Katie Mouser

37 year old

Canberra, ACT

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Katie joined the Ms Australia World 2020 pageant because she wanted to set herself a challenge in 2020; not only to improve and better herself, but also to find a way to provide more exposure to causes which she feels passionately about, and wish she could do more for, on both a national and international stage. Katie also loves the idea of building new networks, and forming new connections & friendships; supporting on another on their journeys. Katie hopes to represent to the nation (and internationally), a genuine, successful and mindful modern woman; capable of achieving whatever she sets her mind to regardless of age, ability or experience. During the pageant (and at Ms World if she were to win nationally), Katie intends to work with her fellow women to engage their communities and increase awareness of their platforms; not only by example, but also utilising the exposure a national and/or world title presents them with media and community options for raising support. As a child, Katie grew up in another country, and when she came back to Australia, she felt displaced, uncertain and anxious. As she worked to overcome this, Katie decided that where it was within her power, she never wanted another person to feel that way. Katie discovered she had a natural talent for forging solid, long-lasting friendships and relationships with almost everyone that she came across, something which continues today. This assists Katie greatly in gaining much needed support for causes she is passionate about, but also gives her a solid and trusted foundation to help others who may confide in her, or ask for her help, to provide them with honest, genuine and humble assistance. Katie takes great pride in her resilience; and is thankful to be supporting NOWSA through the Ms World system. As a survivor of domestic violence, experienced first-hand at a young age, she is wholeheartedly behind an organisation which aims to keep women safe. Katie is also incredibly grateful to be supporting Tour De Cure as Ms Australia World's charity platform at a national level; Cancer has affected many people she cares about, has stolen some too soon, and left it's own mark in her life, not only in her heart and mind, but also having had a cervical cancer scare herself. Katie is proud to be participating in a pageant surrounded by beautiful, genuine and kind women, each of them accepted for being their true selves along their journeys alongside each other.

Leila Beikmohammadloei

47 years old

Brisbane, QLD

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Leila is competing in the Ms Australia World 2020 pageant because she believes that each and every single one of us has a voice. She believes everyone has a story (or stories) to tell which consist of our experiences and locations, our hopes and aspirations and how they have shaped us into who we are and how we live our lives; be it by choice or by circumstance. Leila is coming from a very male-dominated society, and suffered two decades of domestic violence, ending up with a domestic violence order for two years. She is a domestic violence survivor, and is very proud of how she strongly cut toxic relationships from her life and environment to save her children and herself. Leila dared herself to improve upon and build her self-confidence by venturing outside her comfort zone; she dared herself to connect with people and help them when they needed to be helped. She dreamed of partnering and collaborating with World Vision, and organisation sharing her vision of supporting and helping others, particularly children and women. She wants to show all women around the world to be proud of their identity, values, themselves of who they are and what they believe in. She believes in herself and she will be successful at accomplishing the challenges she has set herself, dreams and goals. Challenging and developing herself feels like the sky is the limit!

Suzzaan Kakar

Melbourne, VIC

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Suzzaan Kakar describes herself as an Australian-Afghan village girl. She was born in Kunduz, Afghanistan and was four years old when she lost my father in the Afghanistan war, Suzzaan's father was a rich man and head of the city, her mother was an educated woman but she was not allowed to work, so she was helping women at home. In Dasht Harchi, there was no women's jail, so the Government would send them to Suzzaan's father to be under his restriction. After her father was killed, she and her family found refuge in Pakistan. Her mother had a teaching job, and was looking after the family without any other financial support. As a result, they had no food to eat, and until coming to Australia, didnt have a fridge to keep water in 50 degree heat. Suzzaan came to Australia by humanitarian refugee visa and her Aunty helped to bring the family to Australia, but in her young age, she had to work hard to help the rest of family, brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Suzzaan started her journey in Australia studying the English language, and then a Diploma in Accounting and a Bachelor's degree in fashion - and she continues to study at Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne. Suzzaan is single (never married), speaks four languages - Pashto, Dari, Urdu, English, is a model and fashion designer and stylist with dreams to start her own label incorporating old village fabrics into modern fashion. Suzzaan is also an animal rights activist and hopes to use her pageanty platform to raise awareness of this cause.

Jasmine Farlow

30 years old

Newcastle, NSW

Ms Australia World 2020 National Finalist

Introducing Jasmine Farlow - Ms Australia world 2020 national finalist This Sydney born queen has resided in many places up and down the east coast of Australia, experiencing a lot of what this great land has to offer. Jasmine's history in pageantry is a vast one, competing for over a decade she has earned a handful of Australian titles but believes that we never stop learning or growing so continues to stay within the pageant community. Since her first competition she has branched out to direct not one, but three different systems, all in the hopes of providing women a platform for self growth. In an effort to encourage others to shine, Jasmine has also coached many pageant students, some who have gone on to hold international titles themselves. Throughout her journey of self growth, Jasmine has never lost her love for animals but rather has been able to build a network to help support the rehoming and rehabilitation of our animal friends. This has become her passion and her career path. Jasmine is currently pursuing this path in animal care through undertaking studies, working at an animal farm and volunteering, or raising funds for pets and wildlife operations including Sea shelter and the RSPCA through which she was able to adopt her wild born Dingo, Diego. It is Jasmine's hope that gaining her vet nursing qualifications along with building a small sanctuary to house canines who are at the end of their rope, and have no where else to turn, may lead to teaching others a greater appreciation and respect for the animal kingdom. We as humans need to nurture our animal friends, not fear them or abuse them. One act of kindness towards an animal in need might not change the world but it will change the world for them, and that is powerful

Tulip Goujon

44 years old

Sydney, NSW

Ms New Zealand World 2020 National Finalist

Tulip Goujon is a mother of four children who had never considered joining a pageant as she always focussed her time on her children and their education. However Tulip believes taking up this journey has introduced her to some amazing, encouraging and beautiful queens who are all proud representatives of their cultures, people and homelands. Tulip has a big heart for her community and people. She enjoys taking part in sports such as marathon running and gym bootcamps, and has participated in many charity events. One of her favourite being a boxer for a match which raised funds for families who were in need of everyday necessities. She strongly believes in independence and that education is the key to success. Tulip's passion for fashion has always been a part of her. She used to work and organise promotions for promotional models and was in-charge of events for special occasions organised by Sydney West Multicultural. Tulip holds highly the value of respect, not only for other people but towards herself also. She enjoys uplifting and empowering other women and hopes her journey in this pageant leads her to other like-minded and strong leaders.

Sandy Nand

45 years old

Sydney, NSW

Ms New Zealand World 2020 National Finalist

Growing up on the tropical islands of Fiji, Sandy comes from a family of educators, and has lived with five brothers and two sisters She was very close to her father who was her idol, and he always believed that she would one day make him proud. After his passing away, Sandy moved to New Zealand making "the land of the long white cloud" her home where she grew her own little family. From being a banker to running a household and looking after her kids, she invested in properties. Ten years ago, she moved closer to her family in Brisbane and called Australia her home. Shes been a banker most of her life, and her career has not stopped her living her dreams She stands up for domestic violence, not only for women, but for men as well. Sandy believes that if a relationship is not working, one must learn to let go and move on. Sandy believes in this day and age there are so many ways to be independent. Apart from this, she believes in charity. Often very shy, she doesnt mention her charities to the world as part of her father's teaching was not to brag about what one does for humanity. Here she is today learning still.

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Press Release: Australia's celebrated international beauty queen, Robbie Canner introduces the first of her Ms Australia & New Zealand World 2020...

TransUnion unveils research assessing pandemics consumer finances impact; launches new consumer educational hub to help

CHICAGO, March 27, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Six in 10 Americans (59%) said their household income has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic an increase of 53% from those who reported impact the previous week. An additional 10% of U.S. adults said they expect their household income will suffer in the future. The newly released research from TransUnion (TRU) found that consumers from the youngest generations, as well as those persons least informed about their credit, perceive the greatest financial hardship.

TransUnion has initiated a survey of adults in the U.S. and abroad to better understand the financial impact of COVID-19 on consumers. This weeks U.S. survey of more than 3,100 adults marked the second in the ongoing research. Additional details as well as resources for consumers looking to minimize the potential negative impact of the pandemic on their credit, and access to self-serve, educational materials can be found on TransUnions COVID-19 website.

Whether its their health, financial well-being or changes in day-to-day living, the lives of tens of millions of people in the U.S. and abroad have been dramatically changed, said Amy Thomann, head of consumer credit education for TransUnion. The aim of our weekly consumer research is to better understand the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and better inform consumers, businesses and government decisions during these unprecedented times.

TransUnions research found that the youngest generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, were most impacted financially by the COVID-19 pandemic. While 59% of Americans said their household income was negatively affected by the virus, the percentages were more pronounced for Millennials (68%) and Gen Z (63%).

Furthermore, the research found that Millennials (79%) and Gen Z (74%) were among the most concerned about their ability to pay bills and loans in the next month. This compared to 70% for all respondents and 53% for Baby Boomers.

The concern is growing; survey responders indicated an inability in the near future to pay bills and loans averaging $1,031 a 14% increase from last weeks average of $903. Much of the payment problems are likely due to the fact that 36% of respondents said their work hours have been reduced. Comparatively, last week 45% of respondents said their work hours were reduced. However, this improvement is marred by the fact that this week 16% of respondents said they lost their job compared to 9% last week.

The survey also impressed upon the need for further consumer education in relation to financial options. Of those survey respondents struggling to pay bills, nearly one quarter of the population dont know what they could do to address the situation. This level of uncertainty increased to 41% among consumers that do not know their credit scores. Of those consumers who do not know their credit scores, 80% have not contacted their lenders to discuss options, versus 63% for the overall population.

Consumers are facing many unexpected challenges and its natural that people are concerned about their finances. It is clear that those with the least knowledge about their financial situation or means to act have been the hardest hit. We encourage consumers looking to minimize potential negative impacts of the pandemic on their credit to visit TransUnions COVID-19 website, concluded Thomann.

TransUnions research and credit education tools will be updated in real-time on its COVID-19 website as the company continues to support consumers and businesses from around the globe.

About TransUnion (TRU)

TransUnion is a global information and insights company that makes trust possible in the modern economy. We do this by providing a comprehensive picture of each person so they can be reliably and safely represented in the marketplace. As a result, businesses and consumers can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good.

A leading presence in more than 30 countries across five continents, TransUnion provides solutions that help create economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for hundreds of millions of people.

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http://www.transunion.com/business

Contact Dave Blumberg TransUnion

E-mail david.blumberg@transunion.com

Telephone 312-972-6646

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Nearly 60% of Americans Say Household Income Negatively Impacted by COVID-19 - Yahoo Finance