11, Sep 2024
AD Ports Group Awards ZPMC Cranes Contracts for Terminal Projects in Africa
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 11 September 2024: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics and industry, has agreed to award Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (“ZPMC”) contracts worth over AED 420 million, to supply six ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, and 17 hybrid rubber tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, to be deployed at its terminal projects in New East Mole Terminal in Pointe Noire – Republic of the Congo, and Noatum Ports, Luanda Terminal in Angola.

This move comes within the framework of AD Ports Group’s 30-year concession agreement to develop and operate a multipurpose terminal in Pointe Noire Port in the Republic of the Congo; in addition to the 20-year concession agreement to modernize and operate the Luanda Terminal in Angola.
These agreements are in-line with AD Ports Group’s strategy for advanced development within emerging markets for mutual and sustainable economic growth.
Under the awarded contracts, the Pointe Noire, and Luanda terminals will each receive three Super Post-Panamax STS cranes, which are able to reach 21 container rows, a distance of 60 meters. On the other hand, the Pointe Noire will receive nine hybrid RTGs, while Luanda terminal will receive eight hybrid RTGs. The hybrid RTGs can save up to 60% diesel in comparison to the traditional diesel RTGs which equivalent to one million liters per year and approximately 5,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: “We are pleased to advance our concession agreements in Angola and Congo. These cranes play a crucial role in modern port operations. In line with the vision of our wise leadership to enhance trade and promote investment relations with key global partners, we are committed to investing in our terminals’ infrastructure and adopting advanced, innovative technology solutions to add value to our customers and partners and benefit the economies we operate in.”
Ruikai You, Party Secretary and Chairman of ZMPC, said: “As the world market leader in STS cranes and ports equipment, ZMPC’s global footprint is unparalleled, as is the strength of our specialist upgrades teams. We are pleased to expand this multi-year partnership with our key client AD Ports Group to supply state-of-the-art Super Post-Panamax STS cranes for its expansion into Africa”.
In June 2023, AD Ports Group signed a 30-year concession agreement with the Government of the Republic of the Congo for the management and operation of the multipurpose New East Mole Terminal in Pointe-Noire. With an estimated US$ 500 million to be invested over the duration of the concession, the terminal is set to handle container, general cargo, breakbulk and various other types of cargo.
In addition, in April 2024 AD Ports Group signed agreements for a 20-year concession (extendable for another 10 years) with the Luanda Port Authority for the operation and upgrade of the existing Luanda multipurpose port terminal in Angola. For this project, AD Ports Group has committed an estimated USD 250+ million towards the modernization of the terminal and development of the logistics business over the next three years, with this investment potentially increasing to USD 379 million over the concession term and in line with market demand.
These agreements underscore AD Ports Group’s ambitious international expansion plans, aimed towards enhancing the efficiency of global supply chains, creating faster trade routes and providing diverse logistics solutions for key strategic trading partners.
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- By Neel Achary
11, Sep 2024
Red Bull Racing installs Record Breaking 46m Philips LED wall inside MK7 HQ
PPDS drives new experiential energy into Oracle Red Bull Racing’s MK-7 events venue with a
record-breaking 46.25m Philips Public LED wall
Where cutting-edge technology and exceptional entertainment converge: PPDS and Oracle Red Bull Racing team up together with Vogel’s and Ruitech Solutions to create one of the world’s most unique, deeply immersive, experiential event locations, with MK-7 now home to Europe’s largest* indoor dvLED wall.
Amsterdam, 11 September 2024: PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays, is delighted to announce the latest evolution of its partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing, with the installation of a record-breaking* 46.25m wide Philips dvLED wall inside the reigning Formula 1™ giants’ newly updated MK-7 headquarters in Milton Keynes, UK.
Creating one of Europe’s most unique and immersive experiential event spaces, the vibrant 1,004m2 MK-7 venue – located within the Red Bull Racing Technology Campus – has been welcoming and entertaining visitors from around the world since 2018, providing a once-in-a-lifetime, F1-infused event setting for businesses and individuals. With priceless Oracle Red Bull Racing memorabilia, artefacts, and championship-winning cars at every turn, MK-7 is a venue like no other.
Mirroring PPDS’ desire to always lead from the front and backed by a fearless and relentless approach to innovation both on and off the track, Oracle Red Bull Racing wanted a fresh look and feel for the MK-7 event space, with the existing audiovisual setup deemed outdated, too static, and no longer reflective of its brand values and the fast-paced world of F1 racing.
Setting the pace
Seeking a more dynamic, versatile, and immersive way to host its wide and varied range of events, Oracle Red Bull Racing once again turned to trusted partner PPDS to transform the MK-7 experience. Bringing a trusted team into the mix, a spectacular, custom-designed horseshoe-shaped Philips dvLED wall was conceived.
Measuring a colossal 46.25m x 2.75m, the Philips Public dvLED wall –understood to be the largest dvLED wall installed in an indoor events space in Europe – was carefully constructed to provide an incredible centrepiece to the main auditorium, and a perfect backdrop to the growing horseshoe of F1 cars on display. This priceless collection of F1 cars ranges from 2005 – the Team’s F1 debut – through to and including those driven by reigning and three-time World Drivers’ Champion (2021, 2022, 2023), Max Verstappen.
Formula for success
PPDS – an official Oracle Red Bull Racing team supplier since 2022 and exclusive digital display supplier since 2023 – teamed up with Netherlands-based AV integration specialist, Ruitech Solutions for this transformative project.
With no visible windows or natural light inside the main MK-7 event space, the Philips Public LED 7000 Series was the standout choice for Oracle Red Bull Racing, with high refresh rates, colour and brightness quality, together with a 2.4mm pixel pitch, delivering a total screen resolution of 19240 x 1144 for picture perfect performance and viewing experiences.
Equally, befitting this premium event venue, Philips LED displays feature built-in cabling to keep wires tidy, with display cabinets daisy chained for both power and data, minimising clutter for the tidiest presentation. The Philips Public LED 7000 Series’ low power consumption also adhered to both PPDS’ and the Team’s sustainability commitments, while Active Health Monitoring makes maintenance and parts replacement predictable, fast, and efficient.
Jump starting a new era
The project was completed in just 23 days, beginning with the erection of a dedicated freestanding mounting system supplied and supported by AV mounting specialist, Vogel’s. This was quickly followed by the installation of 484x 41BDL7224L and 33x 31BDL7224L LED panels. Content is brought together with a Novastar H9 LED Controller and a CMS system for easy management of content.
To celebrate this new era for MK-7, the new Philips LED wall was officially unveiled during a special PPDS ‘Advancing dvLED’ grand unveiling event on 10 September, with Christian Horner, Team Principal and CEO at Oracle Red Bull Racing, among the guest speakers.
Doing it differently
Nick Kenton, Director of Hospitality and Events at Oracle Red Bull Racing, commented: “Since Oracle Red Bull Racing’s F1 debut in 2005, its mission has been encapsulated in one simple phrase – to win and do it differently. We don’t see barriers, we see only challenges to overcome, a mentality that helps us to achieve our targets and goals in everything we do, on and away from the racetrack.
“The MK-7 event space is home to a number of winning race cars and the space needed to adapt to allow flexibility for growth and change, as well as a fresh look and feel, with cutting-edge technologies to match. Working with PPDS, our visions for this stunning venue have been fulfilled, with the new Philips LED wall able to deliver the cutting-edge technology and performance befitting of our brand with the capabilities we craved.”
Wim Arts, Video Wall Specialist at Vogel’s, commented: “We were delighted to be selected by PPDS and to be a part of this incredible project at MK-7. Like any successful F1 team, for Oracle Red Bull Racing this project required meticulous planning, knowledge, and teamwork, leaving no stone unturned to achieve the desired outcome. The process from start to finish was seamless, and we couldn’t be prouder of the results achieved within this remarkably renovated event space.”
Driven by partnership
Tim de Ruiter, Business Development Director at PPDS, commented: “Working with Oracle Red Bull Racing is far from a traditional supply deal – it’s a relationship ‘driven by partnership’, with our teams collaborating and innovating together to move forward and achieve our aligned goals and ambitions. For Oracle Red Bull Racing, being second best is simply not an option, and that includes the capabilities and experiences available inside MK-7.
“Believed to be the largest of its kind, with this spectacular Philips LED wall, MK-7 has reaffirmed itself as one of the most unique and technologically advanced event spaces in Europe, if not the world. We are incredibly pleased with the impact the Philips Public LED 7000 Series has had on this amazing location. The immense direct view LED display extending around the entire horseshoe of cars delivers an instant wow factor.
“Working with the teams at Oracle Red Bull Racing, as well as our trusted partners in Vogel’s, and Ruitech Solutions, this project has been a resounding success with a sensational result.”
This latest collaboration between PPDS and Oracle Red Bull Racing follows the recent upgrade of the team’s MK-7 marketing team offices in the same building, which included 13 ‘game changing’ digital signage and interactive displays. PPDS also continues to exclusively supply a range advanced Philips Professional Displays, used to elevate the VIP hospitality experience for guests in the Paddock Club™ during F1 race weekends.
11, Sep 2024
Aprecomm Expands its Broadband Device Ecosystem and Targets New Markets Through a Strategic Partnership with Netlink
The new strategic partnership widens the footprint for Aprecomm’s customer experience suite enabling Netlink to offer its service provider customers out-of-the-box access to AI-powered cloud-driven services including whole home managed WiFi and more.
Bengaluru, September 11, 2024:
Aprecomm (www.aprecomm.ai), the intuitive network and customer experience platform provider, announced today that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Netlink (www.netlinkict.com), one of the largest manufacturers of broadband customer premises equipment (CPE) and a key supplier to the Asian and African markets.
The partnership agreement includes the integration of Aprecomm’s software across Netlink’s range of broadband CPE devices, including Wi-Fi 7 gateways, routers, and extenders. Netlink will also re-sell Aprecomm’s customer experience applications to its service provider customers to create better online experiences for homes and businesses. In addition to serving both companies’ home market, India, the partnership will target business development in Africa, a developing market that is particularly suited to Aprecomm’s cost-effective and cloud-based model.

“We’re excited to partner with Netlink and immediately widen the geographic availability of our customer experience products,” said Pramod Gummaraj, Founder & CEO of Aprecomm. “Both of our solutions have been home-grown in India, a market that is attuned to a high-tech and cost-effective approach. This blend is perfectly suited for emerging markets, such as Africa, where improving the digital infrastructure and customer experience is a high priority for many government organisations.”
The partnership adds immediate value to Netlink’s offering enabling it to capitalize on the growing trend of service providers putting customer experience right at the top of their agendas. Netlink’s CPE devices will offer out-of-the-box access to Aprecomm’s cloud services reducing deployment friction and speeding up time to market.
“Consumers demand the best possible online experience wherever they are in the world,” said Saiko Thomas, CEO of Netlink. “This means that service providers can no longer see customer experience as an optional extra. It is a given. In taking this important step we’ve immediately enhanced our hardware offering by partnering with a company that has demonstrated continued innovation and leadership in the space and amassed over 45 service provider customers in a very short space of time.”
Serving both residential and business subscribers, Aprecomm’s CX suite helps broadband service providers transform their approaches to connectivity, ensuring that consumers can enjoy online experiences without wasting time managing their WiFi networks. By using sophisticated artificial intelligence—including a unique quality of experience algorithm—Aprecomm is paving the way to intuitive zero-touch networks by taking a self-optimizing and self-healing approach to managed WiFi, tuning the network to the unique needs of each user and the application they are using.
On the back end, Aprecomm’s advanced analytics and automated support tools provide access to real-time data enabling service providers to monitor end-to-end network performance—on both the access and customer premises sides of the network—to predict and resolve problems before they reach the subscriber. Its CX suite is field-proven to increase subscriber satisfaction and reduce operational costs—service providers have seen multiple improvements across 100% of their networks such as a 62% reduction in truck rolls, a 35% improvement in first-call resolutions and a 30% reduction in call resolution times.
3, Sep 2024
Top 7 Organic & Natural Gifts From Soulflower for a Meaningful Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time of joy, celebration, and devotion. Ganpati idols are brought home, and pandals are decorated with all sorts of themes. People visit each other, holy and divine prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha, and good wishes and blessings are shared by everyone in the family. Let’s not forget about you grabbing every opportunity to savor soft and melt-in-mouth modaks.
In this festive atmosphere, give your loved ones a gift that treats all five senses (smell, touch, sight, taste and hearing) by gifting them a thoughtful and personal gift.
Spoiler alert: It’s not your average sweets, snacks, chocolates, or dry fruits, which is an old-time thing now; it’s 2024 and people are switching to hair growth products (hello!).
Let’s explore right now!!
1. Soulflower Lavender Self-care Gift Hamper:
Your loved ones deserve a pleasant relaxation that calms the mind and body with self-care essentials made with ingredients grown on Soulflower’s own farms in Rajasthan. The gift set has to be your sure shot way to make them feel truly special and cared for. The gift hamper includes: –
- Bath salt: Add 3 spoons of the bath salt to warm water and mix well. Settle in and soak your body or feet into the warm water.
- Lavender Soap: The soap is made with pure lavender essential oil and, castor and coconut oil for gentle moisturizing. Rub between hands to create a rich lather and apply generously on face and body. Use daily for best results.
- Aroma oil: After a relaxing bath, spray lavender aroma oil on your curtains or cushions for peaceful and uninterrupted sleep.
- T-candles (2): Soft glow with long-lasting aroma encourages healthy-breathing.
- Massage oil: Before your bath to help your skin release stress. Massage gently and thoroughly.
- Loofah: It’s made with 100% natural plant fiber that doesn’t catch fungus and gently exfoliates without leaving skin irritated and inflamed.

2. Soulflower’s Rosemary Gift Hamper for Hair Growth:
What’s more special and thoughtful than a gift of healthy, growing hair? Yes, that’s exactly what the Rosemary gift hamper does. It’s specially curated to give your loved one’s great hair. Here’s what you’ll get in this gift hamper: –
- Rosemary Essential Oil: Contains 100% pure, natural, undiluted Rosemary with clinically proven hair growth efficacy.
- Rosemary Lavender Healthy Hair Oil: Scientifically formulated with active ingredients like Rosemary, Lavender, Amla, Castor and more to control hair fall, makes hair 2.6x stronger hair and nourishes scalp.
- Rosemary Redensyl Hair Growth Serum: 4-5 pumps a day on scalp for 10.200+ new hair in 90 days. The serum is enriched with Anagain, Redensyl and Melanogray to help control hair fall and prevent premature greying.
- Rosemary Tea Tree Shampoo: Makes hair 13.3x stronger and tackles growth of dandruff-causing fungus; cleanses scalp without leaving it dried out.
- Rosemary Argan Conditioner: Packed with Argan Oil, Rosemary, Lavender and Avocado to promote volume and reduce dryness and dullness.
- Rosemary Water with Mint: Whenever you don’t feel like oiling your hair, just a few spritzes on hair will make your hair 10.6x stronger, frizz-free, shiny and smooth. Daily usage recommended.
3. Soulflower Glow Like No Other Gift Hamper:
Get healthy and glowing skin by Ganesh Chaturthi with our luxurious skin care gift set. Featuring a blend of vitamins, antioxidants and botanical extracts, this collection helps brighten, hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. The hamper contains: –
- Orange Carrot Soap: Vitamin C-enriched soap to nourish and brighten skin; abundant snowy lather; long-lasting fruity and sweet aroma for a refreshing start to your day.
- Kumkumadi Face-wash: Gives you fresh, scar-free and radiant skin without leaving skin dried out.
- Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF: 50+ SPF protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. So go out in the sun without worrying about it!
- 20% Vitamin C Face Brightening Serum: Get a festive glow with the unique, lightweight serum for soft and plump skin.
4. Soulflower Vitamin C Brightening & Protecting Gift Hamper:
Say hello to brighter and youthful skin! The gift box is specially curated to make them go “wow”. It’s perfect for everyone, men or women, after all, who doesn’t love to pamper their skin. It is packed with the goodness of Vitamin C. The gift set includes: –
- Ceramide Face Gel Moisturizer: Fast-absorbing moisturizer protects your skin barrier and provides 24-hour hydration to skin.
- Hyaluronic Invisible Sunscreen: SPF 50+ PA++++ protection to protect skin from UV rays for up to 6 hours.
- Ubtan Face Mask: With multani mitti, papaya and sandalwood to brighten skin tone, draw out impurities and reduce painful acne bumps.
- Vitamin C Serum: To boost collagen, fade acne scars and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
5. Soulflower Try Me Gift Set:
Not sure which products to choose? Souflower’s “Try Me” gift sets offer a variety of options to explore and discover your favorites. From hair care to skincare, these sets are perfect for trying new products and finding your ideal routine.

6. Soulflower Aromatherapy Gift Box:
Infuse the feelings of joy, purity and good luck with the range of aroma oils, including exquisite flavors like Rajnigandha, Orange, Jasmine and White Oudh, along with our very own signature scents like Aqua Forest, Soulgreen and Love is in the Air, among others. This will certainly light up the recipient’s face with absolute joy.
You can use a ceramic diffuser, an electric diffuser or mix 4-5 drops of the aroma oil with 100 ml of water and spray it on curtains, pillows and other areas of a room.

7. Soulflower Pooja Oil + Agarbatti Combo:
For a blissful, divine prayers and pooja experience, add this combination of Kesar and Sandalwood Puja Oil and Incense sticks (Rose, Sandalwood, Kesar, Mogra).
There you have it! When you visit your relatives, friend,s or neighbors, get them a gift that shows your admiration, respect, and love towards them. Because nobody goes ‘Khaali Haath’ when one is visiting their loved ones. This Ganpati stands out and makes a lasting impression with our range of thoughtfully curated and designed gift sets containing products made with ingredients grown fresh on Soulflower’s farm in Rajasthan.
27, Aug 2024
Apex Restaurant & Market Solutions Caters Tyson Family Fair Day
Missouri-based food service company provides lunch for the fifth consecutive year to 3,500 stakeholders and collaborators at Tyson Foods’ annual event.
(St. Louis, Mo., Aug. 27, 2024) – Apex Restaurant & Market Solutions recently catered the annual Tyson Family Fair Day at the Missouri State Fair. More than 3,500 Tyson Foods team members, vendors and contractors from its Sedalia Complex were treated to a day of food and fun at the Missouri State Fair held in Sedalia, Mo.

Tyson Foods is one of the world’s largest food companies and a recognized leader in protein with leading brands including Tyson, Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, Ball Park, Wright, Aidells, ibp and State Fair. Founded in 1935, the company is headquartered in Northwest Arkansas.
“The Tyson Family Fair Day is an annual opportunity for us to show appreciation to our stakeholders and collaborators, as well as recognize employee achievements such as ‘Team Member of the Year’ and ‘Length of Service awards’,” said Tyson Foods’ Sedalia Complex Manager Dustin Tippin. “Our Sedalia Complex was established in 1994, so this year was special because we recognized team members who have dedicated 30 years of service to our company.”

The event featured various activities centered around family enjoyment including raffle giveaways for bikes, camping gear, grills, sporting events, and concert tickets. Apex provided lunch for the fifth consecutive year to attendees, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the fair day. Tippin added, “It was a wonderful experience, and we look forward to many more years of celebrating our team at the Missouri State Fair.”

Apex Restaurant & Market Solutions is the largest independently owned corporate food service company based in Missouri with headquarters in St. Louis and Kansas City, Mo. The organization expanded its reach by opening offices in Columbia, Mo., Des Moines, Iowa and Denver, Colo.
Apex Restaurant & Market Solutions
Apex is a full-service provider that supplies catering, in-office cafes and coffee, and vending services for its corporate clients. Apex has more than 270 micro markets located in office and manufacturing facilities across Missouri, Colorado, and Iowa. These convenient self-checkout markets offer employees a wide selection of healthy food and quality beverage options. Approximately 10% of Apex’s micro markets are hybrid facilities, which feature a chef-prepared hot food component available for purchase. Apex also offers Elite Cuisine, its flagship culinary experience that handles all corporate dining and catering services. For more information about Apex Restaurant & Market Solutions, call (866) 607-4400 and visit www.apexrefresh.com.
15, Aug 2024
Powers Insurance & Risk Management Promotes Rachel Winkelmann
Winkelmann to serve as primary liaison between the growing company and its carrier underwriters.

(St. Louis, Mo., Aug. 15, 2024) Powers Insurance & Risk Management, one of the largest family owned and operated independent insurance agencies in the bi-state region, recently promoted Rachel Winkelmann to Commercial Lines Account Executive and Trainer. Her responsibilities include client management and retention, as well as securing and renewing policies with insurance carriers. As Powers’ new Trainer, Winkelmann will handle training and onboarding for new Commercial Lines team members, ensuring the proper usage of the company’s proprietary systems and technologies.
Prior to her promotion, Winkelmann worked as a Commercial Lines Account Manager at Powers for five years. Her previous experience includes working as a claims professional at a local insurance company. Winkelmann holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo.
“Rachel possesses incredible communication and management skills, which enable her to create the most effective customer experience possible,” said Powers Insurance and Risk Management President JD Powers. “She is going to play an integral role in helping me personally manage my clients and their specific needs. I look forward to all that she will accomplish in this new role.”
Founded in 1991, Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. Founded in 2006, sister company Valley Insurance Agency Alliance is a cohesive family of over 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois that generates more than $600 million in written premium. VIAA is the regional founding member for SIAA – The Agent Alliance, a $12.5 billion national alliance. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.powersinsurance.com.
3, Aug 2024
Powers Insurance & Risk Management Adds Two Team Members
Brittany Gaglioti and Contina Hester join the growing insurance agency.
(St. Louis, Mo., Aug. 3, 2024) Powers Insurance & Risk Management, one of the largest family owned and operated independent insurance agencies in the bi-state region, recently hired Brittany Gaglioti as a Commercial Account Manager and Contina Hester as a Personal Lines Marketer.

Gaglioti’s responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the renewal process for the agency’s commercial lines clients and assisting with new business sales. She will also manage current client accounts to ensure their needs are met promptly.
Gaglioti brings nearly 10 years of experience in the insurance industry to her new position. Prior to joining Powers, she worked as a Commercial Lines Account Manager for a Delaware-based insurance agency. Gaglioti holds a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation from the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research, the nation’s premier provider of insurance and risk management education.

Hester’s responsibilities as Personal Lines Marketer include directing marketing efforts toward contracted carriers while supporting both the agency’s team and clients. She has five years of insurance industry experience, having previously served as a Licensed Account Manager for an insurance company in Wisconsin. Hester holds licenses in Life Insurance, Property & Casualty, and Insurance Producer. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from DeVry University in Chicago, Illinois.
Founded in 1991, Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. Founded in 2006, sister company Valley Insurance Agency Alliance is a cohesive family of over 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois that generates more than $600 million in written premium. VIAA is the regional founding member for SIAA – The Agent Alliance, a $12.5 billion national alliance. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.powersinsurance.com.
31, Jul 2024
Shara Denise Ruffin: A Journey of Resilience and Excellence in Social Work
Shara Ruffin’s journey in social work is a testament to resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Over the years, Shara has garnered numerous awards and accolades that recognize her impact and influence in the field of social work. Let’s take a closer look at some of the prestigious awards she has earned and the journey that has inspired many to connect with her and become part of her remarkable achievements.

The Journey to Excellence
Shara’s path to becoming a prominent figure in social work is marked by determination, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth. Her journey began with a strong academic foundation, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, followed by a Master’s degree from Howard University School of Social Work.
Awards and Recognitions
Shara Ruffin has received numerous accolades for her contributions to social work, including:
- LinkedIn Top Voice of Social Work (2023): Shara’s impactful presence and contributions on LinkedIn earned her this prestigious title.
- Influence Digest Top 15 LinkedIn Expert in Philadelphia (2023): Her expertise in leveraging LinkedIn for professional networking and brand building was recognized by Influence Digest.
- Five-Time Amazon Best-Selling Author: Shara’s books, including “90 Days of Prayer” and “90 Days of Inspiration,” have achieved best-seller status on Amazon.
- Media Features: Shara’s innovative approach to exam coaching and her platform, Journey to Licensure LLC, have been featured in Business Insider, USA Today, Success Magazine, and Market Watch.
- Silver Stevie Award (2024) – American Business Awards “Thought Leader Of The Year” – Consumer Services: Known as the Oscars of the business world, the Stevie Awards recognize outstanding achievements and contributions.
- Board-Certified Tele-mental Health Provider: Shara’s commitment to excellence in clinical social work is exemplified by this board certification.
- Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): This certification indicates that Shara has met the rigorous requirements for clinical social work practice.
- Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW): This certification highlights her commitment to the highest standards of social work.
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP): This certification indicates specialized training in trauma-informed care.
- Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP): This certification showcases her understanding of the high emotional cost of caring for those in distress and how to mitigate it.
- Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Professional (C-PD): This certification denotes her expertise in managing and treating personality disorders.
- Certificate of Achievement for Oral Presentation on “In a Military Family We All Serve”: This award underscores her effective communication and advocacy for military families.
- Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW): This credential highlights her expertise in clinical social work practice.
- Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC): This certification recognizes her specialized knowledge, skills, and experience in healthcare within the social work field.
Celebrating Success
Each award that Shara has received is evidence of her unwavering dedication, passion, and impact in the field of social work. Through her innovative approach, compassionate coaching, and tireless advocacy, she continues to inspire and empower social workers around the globe. As she continues on her journey, Shara’s commitment to excellence and service remains unwavering, setting a shining example for aspiring social workers everywhere.
30, Jul 2024
Baird Medical Announces Engagement and Education Program for the Development of Thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology
Frisco, Texas – July 31, 2024 – Baird Medical Devices, Inc. (“Baird Medical”), a leading developer and provider of microwave ablation (“MWA”) medical devices in China and the United States, today announced a cross-market engagement and education program designed at fostering both knowledge and awareness of thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology. Baird Medical both hosts and participates in a range of programs over the course of the year to facilitate the safe development of the industry.
It is critically important to understand what makes MWA a preferred choice to radio frequency ablation as a procedure. There are numerous benefits for both patient and physician addressing both safety and aesthetic appearance. However, awareness of the key differences and the implementation of the procedure are still relatively low. This has led to Baird Medical developing a unique program of engagement and education about this new therapy.
“Regardless of where we develop our business, fostering meaningful relationships that contribute to industry excellence in microwave ablation is where we want to be,” said Ms. Haimei Wu, Founder and CEO of Baird Medical. “We are delighted to play a role in convening leading medical experts to drive meaningful progress in addressing any misconceptions as well as ensuring safe and efficient use of this innovative medical technology.”
Baird Medical hosts the third Global Thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology Exchange Conference
On July 25th, Baird Medical hosted the third Global Thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology Exchange Conference. This event drew together distinguished industry experts from both the United States and China to share their knowledge and experience during the event. From China, several luminaries gave talks including Dr. Xiaoqing Pei from the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; Dr. Chenfang Zhu from The Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine; and, Dr. Yunjun Wang from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center.
Numerous esteemed experts from the United States also joined the conference and participated in the dialogue, including Dr. Alireza Falahati from Utah Endocrinology Associates; Dr. Jennifer Hong Kuo from Columbia University Irving Medical Center; Dr. Toni Beninato from Rutgers Cancer Institute; Dr. Kepal N. Patel from NYU Langone Hospitals; Dr. Iheoma Nwaogu from El Camino Health – Mountain View Hospital; Dr. Gary G. Tse from UCLA Radiology Medical Group; Dr. Melanie Goldfarb from Providence Saint John’s Health Center; Dr. Gregory W. Randolph from Harvard Medical School; Dr. Stephanie L. Lee from Boston Medical Center; Dr. Jagdish. K. Dhingra from BethIsrael Deaconess Medical Center; Dr. Julia E. Noel from Sandford Medicine; and, Dr. Ashok R. Shaha from Memorial Sloan Ketterinc Cancer Center.
The comprehensive educational exchange delved into various aspects of managing thyroid growth, addressing a range of topics from application and preparation to technical modifications and essentials for safe and effective microwave ablation of benign thyroid nodules. The conference also showcased hands-on procedures and techniques for safe and effective ablation work.
Baird Medical joins Greater Bay Area Medical Device Conference & 61st Medical Device Consumables Resource Expo in China
On June 26th, Baird Medical’s General Manager, Mr. Hou Wei, joined the Greater Bay Area Medical Device Conference & 61st Medical Device Consumables Resource Expo in Guangzhou, China. The event brought together a diverse group of experts and professionals from China’s medical device and healthcare sectors.
During the conference, Mr. Hou gave an informative presentation on Microwave Ablation Technology. He specifically highlighted the technology’s use in thyroid treatments and discussed the significant role it can play in shaping the future of healthcare in China.
Baird Medical is headquartered in Guangzhou, a major city in Southern China which sits at the apex of China’s Greater Bay Area, an area encompassing several cities and hubs across Guangdong province, Macao and Hong Kong that are critical to China’s future growth strategy in innovation.
30, Jul 2024
Unforgettable Friendship Day Gifts to Delight Your Bestie

Friendship Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate the unique bond you share with your best friends. This year, skip the ordinary and surprise them with something extraordinary. We’ve curated a list of fabulous gifts that are sure to bring a smile to their face and show just how much you appreciate them. From luxurious fragrances to versatile makeup kits to skincare, these thoughtful presents are perfect for making this Friendship Day truly memorable.
The Body Shop Full Rose Eau De Parfum – 75ML
This Friendship Day, celebrate your unique bond with your friends by gifting The Body Shop’s Full Rose Eau De Parfum. This unisex fragrance from the Full Flowers collection captures the essence of individuality with notes of soft rose petals, green leaves, woody stems, juicy fruits, and sweet resin. With its luxurious rose absolute from Grasse and a commitment to 90% natural ingredients, it’s a scent that evolves beautifully throughout the day, just like the special qualities of your friendships. This Eau de Parfum comes in a bottle made from recycled glass, with a cap designed to be more sustainable, made of naturally renewable wood and cork. And when you’ve spritzed the last few drops, the bottle can be recycled again.
Link: https://www.thebodyshop.in/full-rose-eau-de-parfum-75ml/p/p143012?srsltid=AfmBOoqfCprprGgvXkGFITxVa9g_O78PcKJgycIe8UlxyLd59tPo4Qjm
Swiss Beauty CRAZE Seriously Slayer Makeup Kit
Surprise your bestie with the Swiss Beauty CRAZE Seriously Slayer Makeup Kit—a perfect blend of practicality and glamor. This versatile kit features everything you need for a flawless look: the CRAZE Eyeliner and Stamp Duo for precision winged eyeliner, the Eyeshadow and Blush Duo with four eyeshadow shades and a gorgeous blush for on-the-go beauty, and the Duo Lip Colour crayon that seamlessly transitions from day to night with its two stunning shades. Plus, the CRAZE Makeup Fixer keeps your makeup fresh and your skin hydrated all day long. Celebrate your friendship with this all-in-one beauty kit that’s as stylish and fun as your bond.
Link: https://swissbeauty.in/products/craze-seriously-slayer-makeup-kit
Kass Vitamin C Serum – Brightening & Radiant glow
Brighten up your friendship with the Ultimate Brightening Serum of Kass Care. Infused with potent antioxidants like 3-O-ethyl ascorbate (Vitamin C), exotic Kesar, and Candida extract, it revitalizes, fights oxidation, and reveals radiant, healthy skin. Say goodbye to dullness and hello to a ravishing radiance.
Link: https://kasscare.com/products/vitamin-c-serum?_pos=1&_psq=bri&_ss=e&_v=1.0