17, Jan 2025
Mukuru Launches Mobile Wallet in Zimbabwe to Bolster Financial Inclusion
Jan 17, 2025 Harare, Zimbabwe
Next-generation financial services platform Mukuru (www.mukuru.com) has launched a mobile wallet in Zimbabwe called Mukuru Wallet. The secure digital store of value follows Mukuru’s award of a Deposit-Taking Microfinance Institution (DTMFI) licence in Zimbabwe by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
Building on Mukuru’s trusted capabilities, which support more than three-million Zimbabwean customers, the wallet has several benefits, including its standout features: two pockets that allow users to send and receive money locally and internationally from mobile phones, safe storage of funds as well as a free cashout on international transfers.
Marc Carrie-Wilson, Mukuru Send Money Home Zimbabwe CEO
Marc Carrie-Wilson, Send Money Home Zimbabwe CEO says, “The Mukuru Wallet is a significant development in the country because we have built a reputable brand by consistently ensuring cash availability when needed. To avoid disappointing people who travel long distances to receive their remittances which they use for food, school fees and other essential services, we now have 250 of our own service points. With a network stretching across urban and rural areas, we can reach more people than ever, providing constant cash availability and valuable digital solutions, such as the Mukuru Wallet, to the underserved communities.”
Doug Tait-Knight, Mukuru Zimbabwe Financial Services CEO
Mukuru Zimbabwe Financial Services CEO, Doug Tait-Knight, says, “Mukuru takes its role as a fintech driving financial inclusion seriously. With this wallet, we tap into our strength which lies in our robust network and technology, as well as our crispy notes that are always available, making this an exciting moment in our evolution in Zimbabwe.
“The wallet environment enables us to start providing additional value such as allowing more affordable domestic money transfers, supporting safety by eliminating the need for customers to walk around with large sums of money, and providing convenience and cost savings, such as paying for electricity, buying airtime, settling DSTV bills and paying for insurance from their couch. Our use of multiple channels also ensures accessibility for our customers,” explains Tait-Knight.
While currently focusing on private end users, soon organisations will be able to partner with Mukuru to make use of its local capabilities and global footprint to facilitate payments, such as distributing money to farmers, supporting payroll for small businesses and securing traceable aid distributions. Various organisations such as Cottco and the United Nations, through the World Food Programme, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) already partner with Mukuru.
Kevin Nyakotyo, Mukuru’s Enterprise Sales Manager for Zimbabwe and Zambia
Kevin Nyakotyo, Mukuru’s Enterprise Sales Manager for Zimbabwe and Zambia, added, “Our success in the end-user sector has enabled us to set in motion plans to enter the business sector. Whether it is for tobacco or cotton, payments made to farmers are often large sums of money. The Mukuru Wallet will make receiving these large sums of money far safer because beneficiaries won’t need to draw all their cash at the same time.”
“We have a mandate to educate the market based on trends we see, and with this wallet, we are reaching out to both organisations and individuals and giving them peace of mind to know their funds will be safe and can be collected at any time. They can draw an amount that suits them with full confidence the cash will be available wherever they are, whenever they need it,” says Nyakotyo.
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17, Jan 2025
STAGE OTT Hosts Rohidi Music Festival in Sheo, Barmer: A Grand Tribute to Rajasthan’s Musical Heritage
Jan 17, 2025 Sheo | Barmer, India
STAGE OTT hosted the Rohidi Music Festival, a grand celebration of Rajasthan’s cultural and musical heritage, in the picturesque desert town of Sheo, Barmer. This landmark event brought together over 400 Manganiyar artists who showcased the timeless rhythms, soulful vocals, and traditional instruments that define the region’s rich folk traditions. The festival began with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem, followed by the stirring performance of Dharti Dhora Ri, setting the tone for an evening filled with artistry and cultural pride.
Among the highlights were spellbinding performances by Virasat Lok Sansthan, the Joga Dhol Party from Bisala, and Akala Dariya, who mesmerized the audience with the iconic track “Ghani Re Ghani Khamba” from the movie Padmavat. The event also featured an extraordinary lineup of celebrated artists, including Padma Shri awardees Ustad Sakar Khan’s family and Ustad Lakha Khan, alongside other luminaries such as Shakur Khan, Jasu Khan Bissu, Jasu Khana Meer, Hakam Khan Nimbla, Moti Khan, and R Khan. Their stellar performances not only captivated the audience but also honored the Manganiyar community’s centuries-old legacy.
The Manganiyars have long been the storytellers of Rajasthan, weaving music into every aspect of life, from births and weddings to festivals and harvest celebrations. Their music, which is passed down through generations, reflects a deep connection to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region. The Rohidi Music Festival beautifully celebrated this rich tradition, emphasizing how music in the Manganiyar community transcends mere entertainment to become an integral part of their daily lives and rituals.
Mr. Vinay Singhal, CEO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT and Mr. Parveen Singhal, CCO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT, reflected on the success of the festival, stating, “The Rohidi Music Festival was an opportunity to showcase the vibrant soul of western Rajasthan. By bringing together esteemed artists, we aimed to present the heart of Rajasthan’s folklore to a larger audience. This festival was not only a celebration of music but also a step toward empowering local communities and preserving their cultural treasures.” The event served as a platform to uplift Manganiyar artists, creating economic opportunities while fostering pride among performers and attendees alike.
The Rohidi Music Festival was a historic cultural gathering, blending tradition with a vision for progress. STAGE OTT demonstrated its unwavering commitment to preserving Rajasthan’s cultural legacy while supporting its local artists. The event set a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at celebrating and promoting the rich artistic heritage of the region.
17, Jan 2025
Ninad Pardeshi to Launch ELM Art Gallery – An Exclusive Art Gallery Redefining Luxury
Jan 17, 2025 Mumbai, India
Renowned architect and designer Ninad Pardeshi, the visionary force behind ELM Designs, is proud to announce the launch of ELM Art Gallery, an exclusive art gallery dedicated to luxury and heritage. Under its brand Moksha Sutra, the gallery will feature an exclusive collection of art masterpieces dedicated to timeless elegance and cultural sophistication. Located in the heart of Mumbai, ELM Art Gallery promises to be a sanctuary for art connoisseurs and collectors.
Mr. Ninad Pardeshi, ELM Designs
As the Principal Architect and CEO of ELM Designs, Ninad Pardeshi has built a legacy of creating transformative spaces that marry tradition with contemporary luxury. With over two decades of experience and a philosophy rooted in the belief that “Life is Luxury,” Ninad’s latest endeavor pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, showcasing a curated collection of high-end masterpieces crafted by India’s finest artisans and emerging talents from institutions like JJ School of Art.
ELM Art Gallery aims to preserve and celebrate India’s rich artistic heritage while offering a platform for innovation. The gallery will feature an exquisite range of paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect maximalist aesthetics and intricate craftsmanship-hallmarks of the ELM Designs brand.
“Our mission with ELM Art Gallery is to create a space where art meets soul,” said Ninad Pardeshi. He further added, “This gallery is not just about displaying art; it’s about connecting people to the stories, emotions, and traditions that define our culture. We want our patrons to experience luxury not just as opulence but as a deeper connection to beauty and heritage.”
This ELM Art Gallery designed to cater to high-net-worth individuals and art lovers reflects ELM Designs’ core values of excellence, creativity, and sustainability. Its debut collection under Moksha Sutra will highlight works that integrate vastu principles and eco-conscious materials, offering visitors a sensory journey through India’s artistic legacy.
In addition to its Mumbai location, Ninad Pardeshi has ambitious plans to expand ELM Art Gallery internationally, with future galleries envisioned in Milan and Dubai, further positioning ELM Designs as a global leader in luxury design and artistry.
17, Jan 2025
Smartworld Certifies as ‘Great Place to Work’ for Fourth Consecutive Year
Jan 17, 2025 Gurugram, India
Smartworld Developers has been certified as a “Great Place to Work” for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious recognition underscores the company’s commitment to cultivating a workplace culture centred around employee satisfaction, inclusivity, and collaboration. Based in Gurgaon, Smartworld is a pioneering real estate developer who has significantly impacted the residential real estate sector with its innovative luxury projects.
Commenting on the recognition, Vivek Singhal, CEO, Smartworld Developers, said, “This certification is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to our employees. They form the foundation of our organisation’s culture and values, and this achievement underscores their contributions to our success. We remain committed to providing an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally. It is this dedication that allows us to grow as a company while nurturing our dynamic workforce.”
At Smartworld Developers, fostering an open and inclusive work culture is a priority. The company adopts a flat decision-making structure, ensuring clear communication of its vision and goals to all employees. Regular dialogue between management and staff enables effective two-way communication, fostering a culture of collaboration over competition.
Cross-functional teams are formed to achieve objectives through teamwork, while continuous feedback mechanisms ensure alignment with business goals and motivate employees to perform at their best. Smartworld’s workplace philosophy is rooted in equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender. The company ensures a merit-based approach in areas such as remuneration and responsibility. A strong reward and recognition program further sets Smartworld apart, celebrating achievements at individual, team, and organizational levels.
The Great Place to Work Institute is a global firm that recognises employers creating outstanding employee experiences through a rigorous evaluation process.
According to the Institute’s research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.
17, Jan 2025
GEMS Education Launches One of the Finest Schools in the World with School of Research and Innovation
GEMS Education today announces the launch of its most innovative school to date, GEMS School of Research and Innovation, set to open its doors in August 2025 to take its place among the finest schools in the world. The purpose-built English curriculum school seamlessly blends world-class teaching, cutting-edge facilities, and purposeful innovation that will create an unprecedented learning experience for students.
School of Research & Innovation-Aerial View
Designed as a global hub for educational research, the school optimises education through hand-picked specialist teachers, the transformative power of artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and values-led education. Placing wellbeing and happiness at the heart of its mission, the school breaks traditional boundaries to deliver a truly holistic education experience.
The new school has already been endorsed by a string of highly respected figures in British education, including Amanda Spielman, who served as His Majesty’s Inspector for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (OFSTED) from 2017-2023.
Additionally, Julie Young, a highly renowned educator, innovator, and visionary leader from Arizona State University known for her expertise in school design for diverse educational models, including virtual, blended, and technology-enhanced learning, has also given the new school her full endorsement.
Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education and The Varkey Foundation, said, “We believe in empowering the next generation to shape a better world. GEMS School of Research and Innovation is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional education based on our 65 years of experience.
“By combining the very best hand-picked educators recruited from the UK and around the world with cutting-edge technology and unmatched facilities, we are creating a unique school where every student has the opportunity to thrive and innovate, leveraging their own innate curiosity.”
At the core of the school’s philosophy are its values, which nurture students to be pioneering, empathetic, and prepared to address global challenges with care and purpose. The school’s Family First movement strengthens this approach, fostering close collaboration with parents to uphold strong family values.
Every element of the school has been meticulously crafted to provide an enhanced sensory experience. From dedicated reading and play spaces to state-of-the-art STEM and disruption labs, the environment is designed to inspire creativity and foster critical thinking.
Specialist primary spaces for technology, design, sports, and the arts, alongside collaborative tech hubs and an immersive research centre, offer unmatched opportunities for young learners to explore and excel.
Lisa Crausby OBE, Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education, said, “This is more than a school – it is a transformative space where education meets innovation. At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, students will benefit from personalised learning experiences, driven by exceptional teachers and enhanced by world-class facilities. We are preparing our students not just for the challenges of today, but for the opportunities of tomorrow.”
The enhanced British curriculum is meticulously designed to blend academic excellence with future-focused subjects. Students will engage with computer science, artificial intelligence, robotics, esports, and game design from an early age while exploring specialist languages, arts, sports, engineering, and business.
17, Jan 2025
MMTC-PAMP Celebrates One Year of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya with Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars
Jan 17, 2025 Ayodhya, India
MMTC-PAMP, India’s only London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Good Delivery gold and silver refiner, is proud to commemorate the first anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya with its exclusive Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars. This celebration pays homage to the divine spirit of Lord Ram and affirms the enduring legacy of faith, devotion, and righteousness.
MMTC-PAMP’s Ram Lalla Silver Bar (50g) and Ram Lalla Gold Bar (10g, 24K, 99.99%+ purity, featuring an embossed image of Ram Lalla)
The specially crafted Ram Lalla Bars, made from the purest 24K gold (99.99%+ purity) and 99.99% silver, have been cherished symbols of devotion since their launch. The 10-gram gold bar and 50-gram silver bar both feature 3D embossed of the Ram Lalla idol, inspired by the divine sculpture installed at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, alongside a detailed depiction of the iconic Ram Mandir on the reverse.
As part of the three-day grand celebrations in Ayodhya, MMTC-PAMP joins devotees in the spiritual and cultural activities that resonate with the essence of Lord Ram’s teachings.
The celebrations commenced on January 11, 2025, with the Abhishek of Ram Lalla by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, followed by a cultural program featuring Usha Mangeshkar and Mayuresh Pai. On January 12, 2025, Raga Seva included performances by Sonu Nigam, Shankar Mahadevan, and Malini Awasthi. The event concluded on January 13, 2025, with spiritual rituals and devotional activities.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vikas Singh, Managing Director & CEO of MMTC-PAMP remarked, “As we celebrate the first anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha, we are honoured to offer devotees the Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars. Crafted with 99.99%+ purity, these bars are a testament to our commitment to excellence and our deep respect for Indian culture and traditions. They symbolize faith and devotion, serving as cherished keepsakes of this historic moment. Since the launch of our Ram Lalla collection, these bars have been a cherished treasure amongst our customers.”
17, Jan 2025
Wordswork Celebrates 5 Years of Service Excellence, Client Trust, and Family Values
Jan 17, 2025 New Delhi, India
Wordswork, an award-winning digital marketing agency specializing in strategy, social media marketing, content development, and more, proudly announces its 5th anniversary. This milestone is more than a celebration of time—it’s a powerful testament to the rare and enduring relationships that have defined the agency’s success.
Wordswork Celebrates 5 Years of Service Excellence, Client Trust, and Family Values
In an industry where change is constant, it’s incredibly rare to see clients and employees stay with an agency for the long haul. Yet, wordswork has achieved this remarkable feat, with long-term partnerships from esteemed clients such as BLS International, Jio-bp and Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). Past collaborations with leading brands like Sarovar Hotels Pvt. Ltd. and Tao Paris further underline the agency’s exceptional ability to deliver results and build trust. These relationships are not just business agreements—they are shared journeys of growth, trust, and mutual success.
Equally remarkable is the agency’s ability to retain its original team members, many of whom joined at wordswork’s inception. In an era where turnover is often high, the agency’s strong family-oriented culture and unwavering support for its employees have fostered a sense of belonging, loyalty, and purpose that keep the team intact. These enduring relationships, both with clients and within the agency, are the emotional heart of wordswork’s success.
Key Milestones Over the Past Five Years
Long-Term Client Loyalty: Wordswork has built lasting relationships with clients like EO, Jio-bp, and BLS International. These partnerships reflect trust, shared values, and consistent results, setting a benchmark for client retention.
A Family-Oriented Culture: From day one, Wordswork has fostered a sense of belonging where employees feel valued and supported. This connection has cultivated a passionate team, with many members staying since the agency’s founding.
Award-winning Excellence: Wordswork’s innovative campaigns, such as the 100th store launch of Jio-bp, have earned accolades, including the Elets INDIA Digital Marketing Awards 2024, showcasing its creativity and impact.
Creative Legacy: Over the years, Wordswork has successfully delivered impactful campaigns for clients like Sarovar Hotels Pvt. Ltd. and Tao Paris. These campaigns have gone beyond marketing, building meaningful connections with audiences.
Community Commitment: Wordswork has consistently supported local causes through corporate social responsibility initiatives, ensuring its impact extends beyond digital campaigns.
“We’re celebrating more than just five years—we’re celebrating a journey that’s been marked by incredible bonds with our clients and a team that feels like family,” said Ms. Sudha Maheshwari, Founder and CEO of wordswork. “In a world where relationships often feel transactional, we’ve built something deeply emotional. Our clients have stayed with us because they believe in our vision, and our team members have stayed because they feel truly part of the wordswork family. This is a rare gift, and we treasure it every day. As we look to the future, we are driven by the same passion and commitment that have gotten us here.”
17, Jan 2025
Truecaller Appoints Hemant Arora as New Global Head of Its Substantial Ad Sales Business
Jan 17, 2025 Bengaluru, India
Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, today announced the appointment of Hemant Arora as Vice President, Global Ad Sales Business. With this strategic addition to its leadership team, Truecaller aims to further strengthen its position in the ads business and double down on its largest revenue stream, redefining its global ad sales strategy.
Truecaller Appoints Hemant Arora as Global Head of Ad Sales Business
With over 25 years of expertise in driving high-growth revenue strategies and managing global operations, Hemant has consistently delivered transformative results for top-tier media and technology companies such as TikTok, Times Network, Dainik Bhaskar Group, NDTV Media and Discovery Networks South Asia. In his previous role at TikTok, Hemant was heading global accounts for Europe, APAC and METAP regions.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Hemant Arora, Vice President, Global Ad Sales Business, Truecaller said, “With a global active user base of over 425 million people, Truecaller is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology, trust, and communications. I am excited to join the team and look forward to driving impactful growth and deepening our partnerships, globally.”
“Hemant’s proven track record of building scalable revenue models and his deep understanding of global markets make him the ideal leader to drive Truecaller’s ad sales strategy,” said Rishit Jhunjhunwala, CEO, Truecaller. “His appointment will further strengthen our vision to revolutionize how brands connect with consumers and unlock the full potential of our platform for advertisers across the globe.”
Truecaller continues to evolve as a trusted global communications platform, leveraging its expansive user base of over 425 million active users worldwide. With Hemant’s leadership, the company aims to expand its ad sales portfolio, deliver cutting-edge solutions, and deepen its footprint in global markets.
17, Jan 2025
Encubay Amplifies the Dialogue on Women and Wealth at Davos, During World Economic Forum, 2025
Jan 17, 2025, Mumbai, India
The largest wealth transfer in history is underway, and women are positioned at the center of this systemic shift. By 2025, women will control over 50% of global wealth, an estimated $30 trillion—a transformative opportunity to redefine leadership, investing, and economic impact. Encubay, the Shecosystem of change, is pioneering in this movement, catalyzing conversations, actions, and opportunities for women entrepreneurs to lead the charge.
Encubay Panel at Davos 2025
At Davos, Encubay will bring together global leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to address this unprecedented wealth shift through their curated dialogue:
“The Great Financial Shift: A Dialogue on Wealth, Diversity, and Leadership”
Encubay sees the 2025 wealth shift as more than a transfer of assets—it’s a reallocation of power, purpose, and potential. With women driving purpose-driven investments and reimagining financial strategies, this shift presents unparalleled opportunities to advance gender equity, innovation, and sustainable impact.
“This isn’t just about wealth—it’s about creating a legacy of empowered women reshaping industries, driving diversity, and leading the global economy forward,” said Deeksha Ahuja, Founder of Encubay. “Women controlling over 50% of global wealth by 2025, is not just about numbers; it’s about redefining leadership and economic impact.”
“Women are expected to receive $34 trillion by 2030 due to a massive wealth transfer, highlighting the growing financial power of women. They are championing financial independence, purpose-driven investing, and sustainable wealth creation. The 2025 wealth shift will be a historical moment where we will see a significant shift in investment trends,” added Avneet Kohli, Co-founder of Encubay.
“The percentage of female ultra-high-net-worth individuals worldwide rose to 11% in 2023 from just 6.5% in 2010. By recognizing and embracing this wealth shift, we can unlock new opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth. This is an opportunity to empower more women and shape a prosperous future for all,” said Archana Jahagirdar, Founder & Managing Partner, Rukam Capital.
17, Jan 2025
Progility Technologies Revamps Brand Identity on New Year 2025
Mumbai, India
Progility Technologies Pvt. Ltd, a leading provider of enterprise technology solutions, today announced a major refresh of its corporate identity, including new brand colours and company logo.
With a roster of 1,500 active customers in India and a net promoter score of 100%, the new identity brings a sharper and more modern feel to the company’s visual identity and reflects the high degree of confidence and trust that Progility enjoys in its markets. The primary brand colouring will switch to blue, emphasising trust and security, and the new logo incorporates the words “Trusted Technology.”
This brings the Progility corporate identity into line with the company’s stated aim of being “the most trusted and valued technology innovation partner in its chosen markets.”
Progility Technologies provides a broad portfolio of enterprise technology solutions and services to its corporate and government customer base that include Data Networks, Voice and AV Collaboration Systems, Cybersecurity Solutions, Camera Surveillance Systems and Managed Services.
Announcing the launch, Julian Wheatland, CEO of Progility Technologies said, “We are excited to unveil this new branding and corporate identity which more accurately reflects our customers’ needs and expectations. In a fast paced and ever-changing technology world, now becoming superpowered by AI, our customers need a technology innovation partner who they can trust and rely on. This new brand identity better reflects what we mean to them.”