Category Archives: News

The Inclusive Lens: Bringing Disability in Focus – A Film Festival Hosted by Embassy of Spain and Embassy of Finland

July 29, 2024,New Delhi, Delhi, India : The Embassy of Spain and the Embassy of Finland, in collaboration with the ETI Services, are proud to announce the successful culmination of “The Inclusive Lens: Bringing Disability in Focus”, a pioneering film festival dedicated to highlighting the experiences and stories of people with disabilities.

Cinema is not just a visual medium of expression; it is an exploration of the many lives a character has lived, and wants to live. In this exploration, the lives of people with disabilities have seldom found a space. A space to showcase their mundanity, their complexities, and the colors of their everyday challenges – their reds, blues, yellows, and others — in between and beyond. The film festival was a platform to embrace the landscape of disability through the lens of cinema, alongside the voices, and visions of expert panelists who get together in the hope of an inclusive future.

The festival, held from 26th July – 27th July 2024, at the Instituto Cervantes, New Delhi showcased a diverse selection of films from Spain, Finland and India, celebrating the talents and creativity of filmmakers who portray the multifaceted lives of people with disabilities. The event aimed to foster greater awareness, understanding, and inclusion through the powerful medium of cinema.

The Honourable Ambassador of Spain, H.E. Juan Antonio March Pujol remarked, “In Spain, disability inclusion is a priority. That is why in 2022, the Government of Spain approved the Spanish Disability Strategy 2022-2030. Within that framework, in the Embassy of Spain, we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. This festival is part of a larger, sustained effort to raise awareness and advocate for disability rights throughout the year. It is not a one-time event but a commitment to continuous engagement and support.”

The Honorable Ambassador of Finland, Kimmo Lähdevirta stated, “In Finland, we have long recognized the importance of disability inclusion, not only in our policies and workplaces, but also in our cultural expressions. Finnish cinema has been a pioneer in presenting authentic and diverse stories, ensuring that persons with disabilities are represented not just as characters, but as real, multi-faceted individuals.”

Dr Sukriti Chauhan, CEO, ETI Services remarked, “The Inclusive Lens’ transcends the boundaries of a traditional film festival; it stands as a powerful testament to the resilience and diversity of the human spirit. By centre-staging the narratives of individuals with disabilities, we are not only celebrating their stories but also challenging societal perceptions and promoting a more inclusive world. We are deeply honored to have partnered with the Embassies of Spain and Finland in this endeavor, and we believe that through such initiatives, we can foster greater empathy, understanding, and ultimately, a more equitable society.”

The festival featured a range of activities, including the screenings of Spanish film Campeonex (dir: Javier Fesser, 2023), Finnish film The Blind Man Who Did Not Want To See The Titanic (dir: Teemu Nikki, 2021), and the Indian film Margarita With A Straw (dir: Shonali Bose, 2014), a lively panel discussion with members from the disability community, academicians and youth leaders, where the panelists discussed the representation of disability in cinema, and highlighted how authentic and nuanced representation, informed by empathy and inclusion, should form the cornerstone of production of films about disability. The festival also had an interactive Q&A session with filmmaker Shonali Bose, a theatrical puppetry performance by Kayakalp and stalls from organizations working in the disability sector. Audiences were moved by the compelling narratives and powerful performances that highlighted the richness and diversity of the disability experience.

YFLO and Ministry of Mind, Body, and Soul Commemorate 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas

Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO) and Ministry of Mind, Body, and Soul Honour the Valour and Sacrifice of Indian Air Force Heroes to Commemorate the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas

New Delhi, July 27, 2024: In a heartfelt event organized by the Young Ficci Ladies Organisation (YFLO) Chairperson, Dr. Payal Kanodia & Ministry of Mind, Body, and Soul, the valour and sacrifice of our Indian Air Force heroes were celebrated to commemorate the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas. The stellar event held at TER Hall, The Lodhi Hotel, New Delhi and chaired by Dr. Tania Nijhawan, featured inspiring conversations with two distinguished speakers who partook in Kargil War: Archana Kapoor (Retd. Sqn Ldr) and Air Veteran Group Captain Nitin Welde.

The event commenced with a welcome note by Pankhuri Mukim Nandy, who extended a warm welcome to all the esteemed guests and members of YFLO. She highlighted the significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas as a celebration of the indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force, which played a pivotal role in securing India’s victory in the Kargil War.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson of YFLO Delhi and the Ministry of Mind, Body, and Soul, expressed her profound respect and admiration for the heroes of the Indian Air Force in her opening remarks, “As we commemorate Kargil Diwas today, we are reminded of the immense bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces. Honouring the stories of Sqn Ldr Archana Kapoor and Group Captain Nitin Welde reaffirms our commitment to the extraordinary courage and dedication that define our warriors. It is my personal conviction that our security forces and border areas deserve unwavering respect, support, and active participation from each of us. Their valour inspires us to uphold the values of courage, honour, and selflessness.”

Archana Kapoor (Retd. Sqn Ldr) shared a precious takeaway token with the young ladies of YFLO: her personal power mantra, “Just Ask, And in All Probability, You Will Get What You Want”. As one of the first women pilots in the Indian Air Force, she recounted her inspiring journey and experiences during the Kargil War. Her story of perseverance and breaking barriers served as a profound source of inspiration to all present.

Air Veteran Group Captain Nitin Welde, a gallantry award recipient with over 5,000 hours of flying experience, also shared his remarkable experiences. He recounted his operations during the Kargil conflict and his unwavering commitment to duty, which has extended beyond his years of service. His dedication to youth development and nation-building was evident in his passionate address, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

The event concluded with a special vote of thanks to Archana Kapoor (Retd. Sqn Ldr) and Air Veteran Group Captain Nitin Welde & Group Captain Sumit Malhotra followed by a session of networking and hi-tea, allowing attendees to engage with the esteemed speakers and fellow guests. The YFLO and the Ministry of Mind, Body, and Soul reaffirmed their commitment towards supporting the veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the respect, care, and recognition they deserve. The commemoration of Kargil Vijay Diwas was not just a remembrance but a celebration of the extraordinary feats of India’s brave men and women in uniform.

Heidi Zorian Named P.O.W.E.R. Woman of the Month for July 2024

Sarasota, FL, July 27, 2024 –Heidi Zorian of Sarasota, Florida, has been named a P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) Woman of the Month for July 2024 for her contributions and achievements in marketing and the nutrition/wellness industry.

About Heidi Zorian
Heidi Zorian is a sales representative at Pure Home 365. Located in Sarasota, Florida, the company provides practical solutions to enhance healthy lifestyles, offering products such as advanced water filtration systems, air purifiers, and health and wellness products.

With her background in marketing and business, Zorian plays a key role in promoting Pure Home 365’s products and services to customers seeking to improve their health and well-being through clean water and air. Zorian is also committed to her own health and wellness journey, living with MS and focusing on staying strong and healthy through mental and physical well-being.

Heidi earned a B.S. in marketing and business from Arizona State University in 1994.

Carisk Partners Named to Modern Healthcare Best Places to Work 2024

Miami, FL, July 27, 2024 — Carisk Partners, a specialty risk transfer and care coordination company, has again been selected by Modern Healthcare as a 2024 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. This is the fourth consecutive year Carisk has received this recognition, further demonstrating its commitment and ability to deliver employee satisfaction.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as one of the best places to work in healthcare. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication, passion, and commitment to creating a positive and supportive work environment,” states Joseph Berardo Jr. Carisk CEO and Board Chairman. “Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe that when our employees thrive, our business thrives. Culture is everything!”

Carisk employees’ commitment to patients furthers their ability to ‘do well, by doing good’, a core value and motivator of the organization. Among many benefits, Carisk employees declare improved quality of life, healthcare benefits, and growth opportunities as driving factors for job satisfaction.

“With all the economic uncertainty, staffing challenges, and folks wanting more flexible work setups, every company has to get clever about how they attract and hold onto talent,” noted Dan Peres, President of Modern Healthcare. “The winners of the 2024 Best Places to Work awards really get it. They show us how vital it is to understand what employees want and need right now. With healthcare shifting so much, finding the right people is a top priority, and the winners know that keeping their team happy is the key to business success.”

Modern Healthcare will publish a special supplement featuring a ranked list of all the winners along with the October 14, 2024, issue of MH magazine.

Texas Nuclear Summit Announces Former Energy Secretaries Rick Perry and Ernie Moniz to Keynote Lunch Panel

Austin, TX, July 26, 2024 –Former U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry and former U.S. Secretary of Energy Ernest J. Moniz will be the keynote speakers at the upcoming Texas Nuclear Summit, hosted by the Texas Nuclear Alliance. The Secretaries will engage in a lunchtime panel discussion about the future of nuclear power and its role in securing America’s energy independence.

“We are thrilled to have two distinguished leaders like Secretary Perry and Secretary Moniz share their insights at the Texas Nuclear Summit given their unique perspectives and experiences leading the U.S. Department of Energy under two different administrations,” said Reed Clay, President of the Texas Nuclear Alliance. “In an ever-advancing world with growing economies and fast-paced change, we know that nuclear plays a vital role in the future success of Texas and the U.S. We look forward to hearing Sec. Perry’s and Sec. Moniz’s wisdom on how the advancement of nuclear technology and policy can bring continued energy security and prosperity to Texas, the United States and the world.”

The Texas Nuclear Summit will take place on November 18, 2024 in Austin, TX. Tickets and sponsorship information is available at https://nucleartexas.com/.

“Nuclear energy is safe, reliable, and clean energy that the United States must embrace and it’s critical for our energy and our national security,” said Rick Perry, U.S. Secretary of Energy from 2017-2019. “I look forward to discussing these topics at the Texas Nuclear Summit and I applaud the Texas Nuclear Alliance for its efforts to bring together industry innovators, policymakers, and grassroots supporters. Texas needs nuclear energy and nuclear energy needs Texas.”

“Nuclear energy can play an essential role in the global effort to manage climate change, provide clean electricity, decarbonize industrial systems, and bolster energy security and reliability,” said Ernest J. Moniz, U.S. Secretary of Energy from 2013-2017. “For nuclear to make a meaningful contribution toward each of these goals, we need to rethink how we conceive, build, regulate, and finance these technologies and projects. I’m looking forward to discussing the challenges and opportunities with next-generation nuclear power at the conference.”

The Center for Cyber Diplomacy and Leadership (CCDL) Announces Strategic Partnership with George Washington University

Washington, DC, July 26, 2024 — The Center for Cyber Diplomacy and Leadership (CCDL), a pioneering initiative dedicated to enhancing global cybersecurity cooperation and leadership, particularly among African nations, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with The George Washington University School of Business (GWSB) today. The CCDL, was officially formed in November 2023, with Dr. Pape Cissé serving as the Executive Director.

The CCDL’s mission is to empower leaders with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to excel in cybersecurity and cyber diplomacy, fostering international cooperation and protecting national interests. Operating as a public utility corporation, the Center embodies a commitment to global digital security.

A cornerstone of the CCDL’s strategic vision is its newly announced partnership with GWSB, leveraging the institution’s academic excellence and resources to drive impactful cybersecurity initiatives. This collaboration aims to provide a robust platform for research, education, and policy advocacy, ensuring the development of future leaders in the field of cybersecurity.

Target Audience:
The CCDL focuses on high-ranking African leaders, pivotal in shaping policies and strategies governing national security and diplomatic relations. The target audience includes:

Heads of African States
Heads of Governments
Ministers and Cabinet Members
Ambassadors
Senior Government Officials
Heads of Agencies
Managing Directors
Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs)
Policy Advisors and Analysts
Representatives of Regional Organizations
Private Sector Executives
Academic and Research Institutions
Military and Defense Officials
Law Enforcement Officials

Ambassador Omar Arouna, Co-Founder and Board Chair of CCDL, stated, “The formation of the CCDL represents a significant milestone in our collective effort to enhance cyber diplomacy and leadership. By partnering with The George Washington University School of Business, we are positioned to provide unparalleled educational and strategic opportunities for African leaders, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age.”

Dr. Pape Cissé, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CCDL, added, “Our mission at CCDL is to foster a secure digital environment through collaboration, innovation, and education. With the support of The George Washington University School of Business, we are committed to leading the charge in cybersecurity and cyber diplomacy, addressing the pressing challenges faced by nations around the world.”

The CCDL extends its heartfelt gratitude to The George Washington University School of Business for their unwavering support and partnership. Their dedication to academic excellence and innovation has been instrumental in the establishment and advancement of the Center.

Interim Dean Vanessa Perry of GW School of Business, expressed, “We are proud to partner with the Center for Cyber Diplomacy and Leadership. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to global education and to fostering innovative leaders who can drive solutions in critical sectors such as cybersecurity, and safeguard the future with digital and emergent technologies.”

Beckfield College Celebrates 40 Years with 93 percent NCLEX Passing Rate; Welcomes New President

Florence, KY, July 26, 2024 –Beckfield College Celebrates 40 Years with 93% NCLEX Passing Rate, Welcomes New President

Beckfield College is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Diana Lawrence as the new president of the institution. Dr. Lawrence brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to academic excellence and student success, positioning her as a perfect fit for Beckfield College’s mission and values.

Background and Experience
Dr. Diana Lawrence joins Beckfield College with extensive experience in higher education leadership (34 years). She holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education (administration) from Nova Southeastern University and a Master of Science in Management from National Louis University. Her career includes significant roles such as Senior Vice President/Provost and Vice President for Accreditation at Sullivan University. Additionally, Dr. Lawrence has served as an accreditation team member for various accrediting bodies since 1994 and is the founder of Dr. World® Productions, a professional development organization dedicated to education, mentorship, and community service. She received national recognition as an unstoppable women entrepreneur of 2022.

Throughout her career, Dr. Lawrence has been recognized for her innovative approach to education, emphasizing student-centered learning and community engagement. Her work in enhancing curriculum development, fostering inclusive learning environments, and championing student success initiatives has earned her numerous accolades and the respect of her peers.

Why Beckfield College?
Dr. Lawrence’s decision to join Beckfield College was driven by the institution’s strong commitment to providing quality education and its supportive community atmosphere. “I am honored to join Beckfield College at such a pivotal time,” Dr. Lawrence stated. “The college’s dedication to student success over the last 40 years, coupled with its focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences, aligns perfectly with my own educational philosophy. I am particularly impressed with the NCLEX-RN pass rate of 93% for the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) program, which speaks volumes about the quality of education and preparation our students receive from our talented faculty and academic administrators. I look forward to working with the faculty and staff to continue building on Beckfield’s legacy of excellence.”

In addition to maintaining high academic standards, Dr. Lawrence plans to put the international program in motion, expanding opportunities for students from around the globe to benefit from Beckfield’s top-tier education.

A Vision for the Future

Under Dr. Lawrence’s leadership, Beckfield College aims to:

Expand Educational Programs: Introduce new programs and courses to meet the evolving needs of students and the job market.
Enhance Student Support Services: Improve support services to ensure that all students have the resources they need to succeed.
Strengthen Community Partnerships: Build stronger ties with local businesses and organizations to provide students with real-world learning opportunities and career pathways.
Implement International Programs: Develop and launch programs to attract and support international students.

Busch Marine Inc. is Launching a Search Mission for the Wreck of SS I’m Alone

Plainwell, MI, July 26, 2024 –Busch Marine Inc., with locations in Plainwell, Freeland, and Carrollton Michigan, is embarking on a search mission for the wreck of the SS I’m Alone. This deep ocean search will be conducted in the Gulf of Mexico at a depth of 12,000 to 16,000 feet. The SS I’m Alone was a renowned rum-running sloop during prohibition and sank in a hail of gunfire from the United States Coast Guard while sailing in international waters. The 1929 sinking of the I’m Alone and its subsequent court case was an international incident that captured the attention of people worldwide.

Nearly 100 years later, Busch Marine is launching a search mission to locate its wreck, which is deeper than the Titanic. Although the wreck has no monetary value, Busch Marine will use this project to test and develop proprietary deep ocean remote technology. This work will be conducted off our state-of-the-art research vessel, Christina Busch, which is outfitted with a certified 3-man submersible, side scan sonars, magnetometers, ROVs, camera sleds, and other marine search equipment.

Busch Marine has designed and developed a specialized ROV for use in deep ocean marine archaeological sites. The process of exploration, research, and documentation in the deep ocean presents a unique challenge that they are excited to undertake. Tasks like capturing 3D photogrammetry images of sites on the ocean floor help advance their understanding of the deep sea and historical events. This new ROV system has applications in ecosystem monitoring, resource remediation, and general ocean exploration.

This endeavor presents a unique opportunity to witness the wreckage’s current state and add a worthy final chapter to its remarkable story.

“For half an hour on March 22, 1929, there was a shooting war between the US and Canada. Jack Randell, fiery skipper of the most famous run runners of them all, wouldn’t surrender his ship to the Coast Guard, so they blew him out of the water.” – James Bannerman