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.

Story continues

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

Every month, subscription streaming services add a new batch of titles to their libraries. Here are our picks for April.

For more recommendations on what to stream, sign up for our twice-weekly Watching newsletter here.

Chances are you have a lot more time at home to stream TV and movies at the moment. Maybe youve been checking out some of our recommendations of old favorites, but there is also a batch of great new titles hitting streaming services in April. Heres our pick of the best new stuff, plus a roundup of all the best new titles in all genres. (Streaming services occasionally change schedules without giving notice.)

Brews Brothers

Starts streaming: April 10

Looking to escape with something silly and irreverent? This new slacker comedy comes from the creative team of the brothers Jeff (The League) and Greg Schaffer, who one would hope get on along better than the two fictional Rodman brothers, who run a struggling brewery together. Brews Brothers has some real Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia energy a surprising number of bodily fluids and dildos become involved in their chaotic beer-making process. You can occasionally tell that this is a show about millennials not made by millennials (craft beer is my generations Pinkberry a brewery employee at one point says), but the brothers ragtag group of co-workers is entertaining. And, they have a really cute dog.

The Innocence Files

Starts streaming: April 15

Were the court of last resort, Peter Neufeld, a co-founder of the Innocence Project, which works to exonerate wrongfully convicted Americans, explains in the opening minutes of this nine-part documentary. The Innocence Project can only take on about 1 percent of the cases they receive letters about, and this series breaks down how the American justice system fails people into three parts: the evidence, the witness and the prosecution. Episodes are directed by the Academy Award winners Roger Ross Williams (Life, Animated) and Alex Gibney (Taxi to the Dark Side). This series is not a light watch, but it is thorough, damningly revealing how easy it is to be wrongfully put on death row.

Too Hot to Handle

Starts streaming: April 17

If you were disappointed that Netflixs Love Is Blind premiered a couple of weeks before we all headed into coronavirus isolation, have I got some good news for you. Too Hot to Handle is yet another outrageous dating experiment from the streaming giant: Here, we are investigating whether deeper and more meaningful connections will form when sex is banned. In order to create as much unscientific drama as possible, the show is set in a beachside villa populated by the hottest, horniest, commitment-phobic swipesters (if this sounds like Love Island, youre not far-off who are then told that they cant have sex by a digital personal assistant called Lana. Amounts are deducted from the prize money every time there is sexual contact between contestants, and my guess is at this point in this description, you know whether youll be watching or not.

Never Have I Ever

Starts streaming: April 27

Mindy Kaling drew on her teenage years in California to create this half-hour coming-of-age show. We meet Devi (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan), a first-generation Indian-American, at the beginning of her sophomore year in high school. Shes determined to get her and her besties boyfriends, but the rest of the school is more interested in the fact that shes out of the wheelchair shed been using since a mystery paralysis took hold after her dad died of a heart attack. Devi is having a tough time, and Never Have I Ever grounds her struggles in sessions with her therapist (a wonderful Niecy Nash) and knowing narration from John McEnroe yep, the tennis player as well as moments of awkward teenage hilarity. Never Have I Ever is a show that respects the complexity of teenagers feelings, and its refreshing to see an actual teenager, Ramakrishnan, play the lead, and do it so well.

Also arriving:

April 1

David Batra: Elefanten I Rummet

How to Fix a Drug Scandal

The Iliza Shlesinger Sketch Show

Nailed It! Season 4

Lethal Weapon

Taxi Driver

The Death of Stalin

The Matrix Trilogy

April 7

Terrace House: Tokyo 2019-2020: Part 3

Tales From the Loop

Starts streaming: April 3

This beautiful new sci-fi series created by Nathaniel Halpern (Legion) is based on the paintings of the Swedish artist Simon Stalenhag, which features scenes of giant robots stalking across rural landscapes. Tales From the Loop borrows his eerie aesthetic: The people of Mercer, Ohio, do live alongside robots, but the real threats seem to come from the underground, where people work on a mysterious machine called the Loop that messes with all sorts of rules we take for granted gravity and linear time, to name just two. In Mercer, when a kid says an abandoned house is haunted, he means bricks are flying up into the sky from the chimney. Each hourlong episode tells a different story of how the Loop affects the Mercer community, thoughtfully grappling with big, ethical and emotional questions along the way.

Les Misrables

Starts streaming: April 10

This is not Victor Hugos Les Misrables, its Ladj Lys. The French director does set his film in the Parisian suburb of Montfermeil, also a setting of Hugos book, where Ly grew up and still lives. In this Montfermeil, however, we watch tensions between police and residents escalate into outright warfare. The film opens in 2018, just after France wins the World Cup, as Stphane (Damien Bonnard) joins the police force working in Montfermeil. As the 1995 drama La Haine attests, violence has long been a feature of certain Parisian suburbs, where immigrants and their children forced out of the city discover that the better lives they hoped for in France is hard to come by. The film offers an urgent depiction of modern-day French injustice and racism; by the end, its clear that the films title refers to everyone involved.

Also arriving:

April 3

Invisible Life

April 17

Bosch Season 6

Selah and the Spades

Run

Starts streaming: April 12

The glorious Merritt Wever is Ruby, a married woman in her 30s who has a longstanding pact with her college boyfriend: when he texts her RUN, she replies the same, drives to the airport, gets on a plane to New York, heads to Grand Central and boards an overnight train to Chicago, where she finds said ex, Billy (Domhnall Gleeson). But this is not a neat romantic comedy in which deciding to be together is the end of the story. The pairs desire, fear and longing threaten to burst right out of the train carriages, and they are guarded, unsure if they can trust each other with why they were both so quick to leave their lives behind. This tense half-hour comedy feels a lot like a play, which makes sense its creator, Vicky Jones, has a background in theater production and writing. She also worked with Phoebe Waller-Bridge on Fleabag and Killing Eve, and Run has some of those shows dark humor and dense emotion.

Were Here

Starts streaming: April 23

On this tear-jerker, three of the most charismatic queens from the RuPauls Drag Race franchise Bob the Drag Queen, Shangela and Eureka travel the country transforming small-town residents into drag queens for one-off performances of their own. Were Here owes a big debt to both Drag Race and Queer Eye, and at times it can feel like its working hard to show bigoted locals interacting with the queens. But the transformees personal stories of discrimination, loneliness and empowerment are genuinely moving, and the producers dont shy away from exploring the complexity of being queer in America.

Also arriving:

April 1

Die Hard

The Kids Are All Right

Slumdog Millionaire

April 12

Insecure Season 4

April 25

Bad Education

April 27

I Know This Much Is True

Defending Jacob

Starts streaming: April 24

Apple adds some more A-list muscle to its streaming library with this tense mini-series: Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery star as wealthy Bostonians whose 14-year-old son, Jacob, is accused of murdering a classmate. The eight episodes are suffused with dark blues and grays as the familys merry, comfortable life unspools and long-held secrets start coming out. It turns out Evanss Andy has been battling darkness his whole life, but its all new to Dockerys Laurie, and the pairs differing reactions to a parents worst nightmare are delicately portrayed. J.K. Simmons guest-stars and is, as always, a scene-stealer.

Also arriving:

April 3

Home Before Dark

Risky Business

Starts streaming: April 1

Watching this comedy feels like opening a time capsule and being transported back to 1983, when Tom Cruise was a fresh-faced newcomer and coming-of-age movies centered on rich, peacocking white boys. Written and directed by Paul Brickman, Cruise plays Joel, a teenager whos not as academically successful as his friends, nor as successful with women. When his parents go on holiday, one of said friends convinces him to take a what the [expletive] approach to life and hire a sex worker for the night. Cue ensuing chaos. Risky Business holds up surprisingly well, with a great soundtrack and some standout, stylish moments.

Also arriving:

April 1

Bend It Like Beckham

Blazing Saddles

April 8

Parasite

April 9

Little Joe

April 16

What We Do in the Shadows Season 2

April 29

Normal People

Excerpt from:
The Best Movies and TV Shows Coming to Netflix, Amazon and More in April - The New York Times

The new executive committee has already overcome its first hurdle, with plans for the relaunch placed on hold in wake of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Vasi said they had instead relied on social media and the press to announce that the Port Elizabeth branch was up and running once more.

She was also excited about her committee and the number of personal sacrifices they had already made to make the relaunch possible.

In a media statement sent out earlier this week, the association said: It is our goal to enter into strategic business partnerships with sponsors, other non-profit organisations, leading companies and business schools, to deliver on the mandate to provide ongoing events and opportunities to advance the interests and needs of women in business.

The 2017 Port Elizabeth BWA emerging entrepreneur winner, Kelly Ferreira, said she was pleased to read about the announcement of a new PE BWA executive committee.

I wish the committee all of the best going forward, and hope that the PE branch is afforded the transparent management and leadership from the BWA head office that it so richly deserves, Ferreira said.

Last year, the Port Elizabeth branch announced its decision to close due to a breakdown in communication with the head office of Bwasa, suspected financial irregularities, a failure by the head office to provide full transparency in respect of the financial status of Bwasa and an alleged lack of strategic direction.

Former chair Heather Dutton said at the time that the decision to dissolve the BWA in Port Elizabeth had not been taken lightly.

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New Bwasa executive rises from the ashes - HeraldLIVE

Pastor Kelvin Sauls (Courtesy photo)

No one, having put their hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the Kin-dom of God. Luke 9:62

During my time in devotion and meditation the last couple of days, and in the midst of people not being able to worship together in sanctuaries, the conversation that Jesus had with the Samaritan woman in John 4 entered my spirit.

The impact of COVID-19 continues to be shocking and sobering in its impact on EVERY aspect of our lives. Caused by a detour, this encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman reveals two characteristics of Jesus character and leadership: human rights activist and evangelist in realizing Gods kin-dom. On the subject of where and how to worship in John 4:21- 24, Jesus redefines worship as not just the coming together in a particular sanctified place, but as sanctified persons coming together with God in spirit and truth. Hence, the church at worship is not limited to a place somewhere.

Followers of Jesus Christ at worship are a liberatory experience with Gods presence everywhere! Such worship is liberatory, not because of its liturgical nature, but because of its incarnational nature. Incarnation infected by Spirit and guided by Truth! While worship doesnt have to be a test in endurance of boredom, it doesnt have to be a spirited infusion of shallow entertainment. Truth be told!!

John records part of this encounter-by-detour in chapter 4:23-24 as follows, But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship God in spirit and truth, for such is the worship that God seeks. God is spirit, and those who worship God must worship in spirit and truth.

Hence, as followers of Jesus, and not fans of denominations, congregations or pastors, being the church at worship invites an updated understanding of what it means to be the church at worship.

Moreover, it instructs us into upgraded ways of being the Church at worship:

-If you need to shelter in place, you might as well worship in place, beginning with personal worship. The significance of familial and public worship depends on the quality of your personal worship

-In addition to doing worship differently, review, reposition and relaunch your personal spiritual disciplines with friends, family and technology, e.g. prayer, meditation, Bible study, journaling, etc.

-Utilizing technology, unleash your creativity by turning your worship service into worship through service by way of acts in compassion towards humanity and all of creation.

Followers of Jesus Christ at worship is a liberatory experience with Gods presence everywhere! Divine presence characterized by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit as described throughout the Acts of the Apostles:

-celebration of peoples humanity and dignity through the power of visibility

-celebration of multi-racial, multi-lingual and multi-generational inclusion

-celebration of incarnational worship in place, reaching beyond the walls of your home

-celebration of equality and equity within community as integral to your spirituality

The Holy Spirit, not dogma or ideology or denomination, is the great equalizer! Hence, such experience can be liberatory worship, because you have direct access to your Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer.

Followers of Jesus Christ at worship is a liberatory experience with Gods presence everywhere! Liberatory divine presence is also characterized by the pursuit, practice and promotion of truth. Its said that the first casualty of war is truth. If were at war with COVID-19 , then this saying is correct.

With the daily mass denial and mass deception emanating from the White House, we have no choice but to declare President Trump as a weapon of mass distraction and destruction! Truth facilitates freedom and empowerment, hope and constructive engagement. (John 8:32). Truth enhances trust and advances unity. Optimism informed by ignorance and arrogance is an ally to COVID-19 and will result in mass destruction.

Worship in place, re-learn, re-kindle and reset your direct connection with God. For such a time as this, youll realize resurrection EVERYDAY. In the words of that great hymn:

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!

He walks with me and talks with me along lifes narrow way (impacted by COVID-19)

He lives, He lives, Salvation to impart!

You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

Your daily access to Gods resurrection power will make your worship in place liberatory! People will be blessed! Lives will be saved! COVID-19 will be conquered! God will be glorified!

So, if you miss coming together in a sanctuary at some address, turn your address into a sanctuary, create an altar in your home and get together for worship with family and friends in person or online. Your familial and virtual community will grow in quantity & quality, substance and significance. For such times as these, Jesus redefines worship as not just coming together in a particular sanctified place, but as sanctified persons coming together with God in spirit and truth.

Could this also be what Joshua meant when he declared, As for me and my house, we will worship and serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15). Be safe in your activities! Stay well in your engagements! Be intentional in your advocacy! Serve extravagantly in your endeavors!

Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Pastor Kelvin Sauls is the former Senior Pastor of Holman UMC. A faith-rooted Community Organizer in the areas of social justice and racial equity, he currently serves as the Network Strategist with Community Health Councils, a City Commissioner with the Los Angeles Housing Authority (LAHSA) and on the Pastoral Team at Peace Chapel Church in South Los Angeles.

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From Shelter-in-Place to Worship-in-Place - Lasentinel

This month Avon philanthropy efforts include donations of personal care products to the U.S. anti-hunger organization topping $2 million.

NEW YORK, March 31, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- One of the harshest realities of COVID-19 and the necessity of the social distancing that tragically shutters numerous businesses and puts countless people out of work is a family's sudden inability to access essential supplies and to afford them even if they can.

Avon's partner, Feed the Children, works closely with community partners like schools, civic organizations and food banks to serve the most vulnerable populations and others who may be experiencing difficulty due to a job loss in this uncertain environment. Feed the Children has alerted Avon to the most pressing needs of the most affected communities so it can send vital resources to help keep these families afloat.

This month, Avon donated $2 million worth of personal care products such as soap, body wash and skincare products to Feed the Children to support these families in need during this unprecedented time.

"Avon is proud to have partnered with Feed the Children since 2004," says Avon CEO Paul Yi. "Because of our longstanding relationship, it made sense to work with Feed the Children for their COVID-19 relief efforts. They work diligently to get our products to the people who need them most."

Over the last sixteen years, Avon has donated over 15,000,000 pounds of personal care and beauty products, clothing, shoes and home essentials to Feed the Children for distribution to families in need. In the last six months alone, Avon donations totaled over $40 million worth of necessities, bringing relief to nearly a million families including 3.5 million women and girls in 48 states and the District of Columbia, many of whom have shared their stories of improved self-confidence and empowerment as a result of their Feed the Children x Avon deliveries.

ABOUT NEW AVON COMPANY New Avon, ("New Avon Company") is the leading social selling beauty company in North America, with independent sales Representatives throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Avon's portfolio includes award-winning skincare, color cosmetics, fragrance, personal care, and health and wellness products featuring brands such as ANEW, Skin So Soft, CHI, and The Face Shop, as well as fashion and accessories. Avon has a 134-year history of empowering women through economic opportunity, and supporting the causes that matter most to women. Avon philanthropy has contributed over $1 billion globally toward eradicating breast cancer and domestic violence. Learn more about New Avon and its products at http://www.avon.com.

About Feed the Children At Feed the Children, we feed hungry kids. We envision a world where no child goes to bed hungry. In the U.S. and internationally, we are dedicated to helping families and communities achieve stable lives and to reducing the need for help tomorrow, while providing food and resources to help them today. We distribute product donations from corporate donors to local community partners, we provide support for teachers and students, and we mobilize resources quickly to aid recovery efforts when natural disasters strike. Internationally, we manage child-focused community development programs in 10 countries. We welcome partnerships because we know our work would not be possible without collaborative relationships. For more information, visit feedthechildren.org.

For more information, please contact Lauren Donner, Vice President, Tractenberg & Co. ldonner@Tractenberg.com, 212-929-7979 and Susan Small, Public Relations Manager, Avon susan.small@avonusa.com, 212-282-6066

Related Links http://avon.com

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/avon-steps-up-its-16-year-partnership-with-feed-the-children-in-response-to-covid-19-crisis-301031078.html

SOURCE New Avon Company

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Avon Steps up its 16-Year Partnership with Feed the Children in Response to COVID-19 Crisis - Yahoo Finance

Meet the changemakers.

This Air Max season, Nike Sportswear champions inclusivity in the ever-evolving sneaker culture. Nike has tapped singer-songwriter KLPfor an interview series amplifying the voices of female changemakers who are shaping the future of sneaker culture. The following interview and words are written by KLP.

Sometimes you meet someone who shines such a bright light of positivity, it genuinely inspires you. That was me the moment I met Nawal Sari. She has such a passion for spreading self-empowerment, creativity and cultural awareness. And she does so with such grace, through sharing her own honest experiences with her followers. Having the opportunity to sit down with her and chat so openly about her upbringing, her inspirations and motivations was a moment that Ill carry through life with me.

KLP: Its so nice to meet you, Nawal. How do you describe yourself and what you stand for when you first meet people?

Nawal Sari: It feels like, for me, Im just doing my own thing in my own little bubble. But to put it into words, Im redefining modest fashion by using my platform to show other women Muslim women and every girl that modest fashion is there, and its personal and creative.

Im working on my platforms to basically push that message and inspire other girls, because I never had that growing up as this young Aussie girl. I didnt have a Muslim girl on social media, or in the media, that I could look to and be like, I want to be like her or theres a space for me. Im just on my own little mission to work to change things in my own way.

KLP: I wasnt aware of what modest fashion was. I didnt even know that it was a term to describe a type of fashion. How do you describe modest fashion?

NS: First of all, its very personal. To me, modest fashion is wearing the hijab, having longer pieces that are not as tight. To some other girls its wearing more of a turban-style hijab and doing their own type of thing. So its very, very personal. What Im trying to do is show that modest fashion is present. Its there, its in the world, people need to recognise it and take it for what it is; but its also very empowering for women.

KLP: Its your choice to dress like that and I guess youre trying to say that its up to you and the individual how they want to dress.

NS: Yeah, just as any woman should have the option to dress how she wants, the same applies. I choose to cover, you may choose to do something else. Its totally up to you, its personal, and women should have the right to dress how they want to dress and not feel like they have to conform to something because it makes someone else uncomfortable.

KLP: When you were growing up, did you have anyone that you could see that was visible that you could look up to, be it in fashion or TV?

NS: I wore the hijab when I was 15 or 16, it was in year 10. And at the time, I wasnt looking up to hijabi women. It wasnt until I got onto social media and I saw in the UK and the US that they have hijabi bloggers. I didnt think that was a thing, because I just saw the typical Aussie look for so long. And that appeals to some women, but to a lot of us it doesnt. So I kind of thought there wasnt a space for me in fashion, being a Muslim woman who also wears the hijab.

KLP: This Air Max season, Nike is championing inclusivity in sneaker culture through the likes of Air Max Verona, the new silhouette created by women, for women. Youve spoken about that at length, and youre an inspiration for so many people, how does it feel being a muse in fashion to your followers?

NS: Its crazy. I feel like I just fell into it, I never strived to be like, Im going to inspire women. I would get feedback from women who were like, because of you, I decided to wear the hijab or because of you, I dress more creatively or more personally. Thats amazing, thats what Im here to do.

Before anything I would tell myself, if Im going to put myself on a platform where I have a voice and I have that power, its going to be for something. Im not just going to be there to benefit myself, its going to help other people.

Im still studying, Im still doing my own thing, but I do see it as a career now.

KLP: You have such a strong message and its so genuine. And I guess through social media, you can connect with people all over the world which is amazing. Has there ever been an experience where someone has hit you up directly and said your sense of style has changed the way they think about modest fashion?

NS: Ive had a lot more recently, when Ive been exposed to more mainstream media, where Ive had non-Muslim women come to me and say, because of you, Ive changed my perspective of it all. Im way more open to [modest dressing] now, I see that its empowering.

My mission is to help my own first, of course I want Muslim women to feel the power. But to think that any woman can be more inclusive towards my community, and that when they see a Muslim woman walk down the road, that woman wont be alienated or treated differently because I helped a person unpack [their perceptions], its just another amazing thing that could happen from the whole thing.

KLP: So, do you believe that youve created a catalyst for change among your followers?

NS: I feel like Ive created a space where, if you follow me and you decide to be a part of the community then for sure, its changing things. To think that a Muslim woman can feel like the hijab isnt going to change her whole life and be a thing of I have to chuck out all my fun clothes and do all these things because I think a lot of Muslim women, we thought that. Like, We have to change who we are to be a woman who wears the hijab.

I feel like Im trying to show girls that its a big step, its powerful, its personal. But it can also be creative and fun, and you dont have to totally flip things upside down so you can wear the hijab.

But sneaker culture for me was how I developed my own personal style, because streetwear and sneakers, its a lot more modest than other style spaces. When I finished high school, I was actually working at a sneaker store when I discovered street culture. Its modest and its also really sick, so I can do both and still respect what Im doing. So thats kind of how I developed into my own personal style.

And I think for a lot of Muslim women, street culture and sneakers and everything around sportswear is kind of its like their safe space. Because no ones going to judge you if you walk around in a modest outfit, but its a full-on Nike kit, because its sick. But youre also comfortable and youre wearing whatever you want. So its also how Ive pushed into my own style.

KLP: Okay so last question, why is sportswear and sneaker culture important to you?

NS: Its how I developed my own style. Its how I connected my personality plus modest fashion into what I wear. When I was in high school, I remember feeling like I had to dress a certain way, which is how other hijabis dressed. Which is fine for some, but for me I didnt feel like it was personal enough. So being able to step into the sportswear world, it was not totally foreign because youre wearing longer pieces, looser pieces. I think for a lot of women, thats been really empowering. And now we have the Nike Hijab which has totally changed the game.

KLP: How did you feel when you saw that?NS: I was so happy! I wear it as more of a fashion piece, like I wear it with a hoodie on top or with just like a really cute outfit. And you can do that, theres versatility to it.

Shop the Air Max Verona here and read others in our Shaping Culture series here.

nike.com/au

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Shaping Culture: Nawal Sari on the intersection of modest fashion and sneakers - Fashion Journal

Avon has partnered with Feed the Children on its philanthropy efforts for 16 years, and is increasing its support now due to the COVID-19 crisis.The company has donated more than $2 million in personal care products this month.

Feed the Children works closely with community partners like schools, civic organizations and food banks to serve the most vulnerable populations and others who may be experiencing difficulty due to a job loss in this uncertain environment, Avon states. The organization has alerted Avon to the most pressing needs of the most affected communities, so it can send vital resources to help keep these families afloat.

Paul Yi, CEO, Avon, says, "Because of our longstanding relationship, it made sense to work with Feed the Children for their COVID-19 relief efforts. They work diligently to get our products to the people who need them most."

In the last six months, Avon donations totaled over $40 million worth of necessities, bringing relief to nearly a million families including 3.5 million women and girls in 48 states and the District of Columbia, many of whom have shared their stories of improved self-confidence and empowerment as a result of their Feed the Children x Avon deliveries.

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Avon Increases Support to Feed the Children Due To COVID-19 Crisis - Beauty Packaging Magazine