Latest news with #Ayah
New Statesman
25-06-2025
- Politics
- New Statesman
The pro-Palestine movement's alternative campus
Photo by Guy Bell/Alamy Live News On 17 June, I visited the Soas Liberated Zone. It is a complex of tents occupied by Soas students, which has existed in multiple forms on and outside the School of Oriental and African Studies campus since 6 May 2024. This makes it the longest held of the student encampments that sprang up in Britain following the Gaza Solidarity Encampment at Columbia University, whose occupants were demanding their university divest from Israel. The day of my visit, Israeli forces had opened fire on crowds of Palestinians in Gaza waiting to receive crucial aid. They killed at least 70 people. Al Jazeera called it 'Gaza's deadliest day at aid sites'. Inside the large tent that serves as the living-cum-dining room for the encampment, I met Ayah, a Palestinian Soas alumna who recently completed her masters in comparative literature. We have returned to an attitude of silence, which serves to normalise an ongoing genocide in Gaza, Ayah told me. It has gone on so long that people are becoming numb or even apathetic in the face of the daily roll call of Palestinian people who have died under occupation. 'Encampments are a way of saying this is not normal and we will not go on with our normal lives,' she said. The current encampment has about 20 regular members who take it in turns to sleep outside, between a church and a row of pop-up food stalls, only a few minutes' walk from the university. It's a space that feels lived in and cared for: packs of biscuits and an ashtray on the table, a daily to-do list written on a whiteboard. This is their third location; the first two were on Soas property, the second removed by enforcement agents on instructions from the University of London. Ayah and other members of the encampment whom I would meet once they returned from a protest at BAE Systems Rochester have been here since the start. After the war on Gaza began, Ayah withdrew socially from the university because, she said, it offered her neither the support nor the solidarity she needed. Once the encampments began, she actually felt 'integrated into the community'. Those who had been at the protest outside BAE returned: Haya, a second-year student and political refugee from Egypt; Tara, a third-year student; and a fresher called Qasim who told me he joined the encampment after learning that Soas invests in companies linked to Israel and has a partnership with Haifa University. 'Once you find that out, you really only have two choices,' he said. 'Silence or do something about it.' Both Haya and Tara are suspended and prohibited from entering the campus for the rest of the academic year, at minimum, for their roles in pro-Palestine activity on campus. (A Soas spokesperson said that protest and dissent can take place at the university 'as long as it remains peaceful and does not undermine the safety and security of all within our community'.) Haya and Tara are two of the named defendants on an injunction the University of London had approved by the courts late last year, which has temporarily guaranteed that students cannot hold protests on university property unless they seek permission from the relevant authorities 72 hours in advance. 'But things happen overnight!' Ayah cut in. 'How can Soas continue to declare that it supports free speech and decolonial rhetoric when it's actively suspending students for doing those very things?' Tara asked. For the last year, student encampments like this one have functioned to expose the hypocrisies at the heart of universities as institutions. On Soas's website it says that its undergraduate degree is for 'those who want to re-examine preconceptions and not just accept the status quo'. And yet, it is choosing to suppress student protest unless management first ordains it. I asked Ayah what she now thinks university is for; she replied sardonically, 'A fancy degree!' To Tara, what is beautiful about the encampment is the way it has made free education possible. Not just financially, Tara clarified – they make the seminars and screenings held available for free online as well as free from censorship. What they learn here seems more transformative than what you might discover in the classroom: not just political theories, but the ability to apply them in practice. After the start of the war, Haya told me a lot of students were pro-Palestine but in quite a passive way. 'It's our responsibility to reach out to them, to get them to join us, to provide political education,' she said. This space has provided students with an alternative form of university experience: it is where they come to study, make sense of the world and discover how they might become forces of change – things they ought to have received from inside the university gates. Subscribe to The New Statesman today from only £8.99 per month Subscribe In court during the injunction case, the students, as defendants, were reminded that they were still free to protest on social media. To Tara, this illustrated that the university is not threatened by online activism. Suspending its students is a university's attempt to cut them off from community and action. Instead, these Soas students have spent the last year constructing a sustaining, galvanising and educational community. The point of encampments is that they exist as obstructive, disruptive, physical reminders of institutional and societal failures when it comes to Israel's actions in Gaza. The Soas Liberated Zone has seven demands – along with divestment they include an end to the repression of Palestinian solidarity activism on campus. They tell me they will stay here for as long as necessary. [See also: Jeff in Venice] Related
Gulf Today
23-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
PaintBrush Art Community hosts two exhibitions commemorating Ramadan
PaintBrush Art Community has inaugurated two Ramadan exhibitions, one each at Dubai's Wafi Mall and voco Bonnington Dubai, for the duration of the Holy Month. Ayah, the Ramadan group art exhibition at Wafi Mall, has twenty artists participating, with the artworks being displayed aesthetically in the mall. The Ramadan art collection has been organised by Plan B Group and curated by PaintBrush Art Community. CEO of Plan B Group, Dr. Harmeek Singh, underlined he has ensured one of the biggest art spectacles for the public this Ramadan, by supporting the artists. He has been honoured by several organisations for his humanitarian work. A lavish ceremony celebrated the artists at the Mosaic area of the mall. An Egyptian theme with dazzling mirrors in the pyramid shaped ceiling, adds to the strength of the event. Artists on the opening day came dressed in Ramadan attire. Though some of them were not Muslims, they paid their respects to the month by dressing in traditional abayas. Guest of Honour, Kusum Dutta, who graced the occasion, is a renowned philanthropist; she has been supporting for long, less privileged sections of society through her NGO. She praised the way PaintBrush Art Community has progressed since its founding. She said the art group has provided 'the most exquisite art events' and has always encouraged artists. Artwork by Jaimee Felysse Reyes (left) and Alia Amin Abdulkarim's composition. Chief Guest Charanjit Kaur, mother of Dr. Harmeek Singh, graciously met each artist, and distributed certificates to them. When Dr. Romit Purohit, co-founder of PaintBrush Art Community was asked about Ayah, he said that it was the fourth season when Ayah was being celebrated, 'in all its beauty and serenity. Ayah is the most cherished exhibition hosted by The Paintbrush Art Community.' Dr. Romit added that artists wait impatiently to participate in the mega annual art extravaganza. The artists, on their part, were delighted when enquired about their work. 'It is our fourth season with Plan B Group and at Wafi Mall,' said Sonal Purohit, artist and co-founder of PaintBrush Art Community. 'Wafi Mall is renowned for its extravagant and majestic celebration of Ramadan and this year, the artworks are installed at the Mosaic area of the mall. Since the location is very accessible, the idea is to spread art amongst masses and show them the enchantment of Ramadan.' Sarla Tated's artwork (left) and Raj Shekar Reddy's composition. Artwork includes calligraphy, portraits, mixed media and religious themes that define the beauty and radiance of the Holy Month. Artists include Anil Kamble, Anjum Daud, Deepti Tripathi, Prabita Rajesh, Radha Bhatia, Raj Shekar Reddy, Sabah Anees, Sarla Tated, Shereen Abraham, Sonal Purohit, Tia Mathew and Varsha Khatri (from India); Alia Amin Abdulkarim, Dr. Anum Ali and Soobika Fawad (from Pakistan); Jaimee Felysse Reyes (from The Philippines); and Labiba Ferhat (from Algeria). 'Art is limitless and artists are capable of adding life to everything that a heart can comprehend,' said Sonal Purohit. 'The portrayal of Ramadan can be seen in each painting that is displayed and they carry so much energy and positivity. It is a must see, to feel the magic of art.' PaintBrush Art Community's other art event at voco Bonnington Dubai, is also a point where visitors can feel the vibrant solemnity of the Holy Month, through the richness of art. 'It is a soulful exhibition that displays the essence and joy of the most favourite time of the year for UAE residents,' said Sonal Purohit. 'The art collection of my artists wishes everyone a blessed month via art.' Dr. Romit Purohit, who is also a health professional, said he ensures that the venue and team 'is of the highest standards, since PaintBrush Art Community has become synonymous with perfection and magnificence. The locations of the exhibitions have always been lavish and add value to the artworks displayed.' Artists taking part are Harshita Dhar, Sabah Anees, Sonal Purohit and Sugat Priyadarshi (from India); Alia Amin Abdulkarim and Soobika Fawad (from Pakistan); Jaimee Felysee Reyes (from The Philippines); Labiba Ferhet (from Algeria); and Sumaya Azam (from Bangladesh). Sonal Purohit (left) and Dr. Romit Purohit. In the larger world, cultural practices during Ramadan include, in some Islamic countries, lights (fanous) strung up in public squares and across city streets. The UAE illuminates its spaces during Ramadan with numerous lights and decorations and markets, landmarks and buildings are adorned with traditional Ramadan decorations. Blogger team notes that 'art has long been a way to express and explore religious beliefs,' since 'it has the power to convey complex and abstract ideas in a way that words sometimes cannot. It allows individuals to explore and express their spiritual experiences in a visual, tangible form.' During Ramadan, they continue, art plays an essential role in helping people connect with their faith and express their devotion. 'From intricate calligraphy to colourful paintings, art depicts the beauty and significance of the Holy Month. It is a way to capture the essence of Ramadan and share it with others, creating a sense of community and unity.' Traditional Islamic art forms, such as calligraphy, geometric patterns, and arabesque designs, have been used for centuries to express the beauty and spirituality of Islam. During Ramadan, these art forms are often incorporated into decorations, clothing, and food. Calligraphy, in particular, is highly revered in Islamic art as it is used to write verses from the Quran and other religious texts. Islamic art's sinuous geometric patterns and designs are also symbolic, representing the unity and interconnectedness of everything in the universe.
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Montgomery Central's Joseph Reece wins The Tennessean Student of the Week for business
Montgomery Central High School junior Joseph Reece was the top vote-getter among 12 nominees in this week's Tennessean Student of the Week poll recognizing top business students. Joseph raked in 8,823 votes in the poll, which specifically recognized outstanding students involved in school Future Business Leaders of America or DECA – sometimes called Distributive Education Clubs of America – clubs. The poll brought in more than 16,000 votes from across Middle Tennessee. Mt. Juliet High School junior Claire Warta came in second place with 5,584 votes. Joseph has been part of Montgomery Central's FBLA program for three years, consistently competing and placing at the state level. He's also placed sixth nationally in Database Applications. The Tennessean asks Middle Tennessee high school principals, guidance counselors, teachers and staff to send us their best students in different categories throughout the school year for our Student of the Week feature. We then let you, the reader, decide who deserves the title by voting in our weekly poll. Check on Monday morning to vote in our next poll. Here is a look at the 12 students nominated for the most recent FBLA and DECA poll and what was said about them by school faculty: Ayah Al-Horshi, Overton High: As a two-year DECA member, Ayah has demonstrated commitment to developing her business acumen and leadership skills, consistently striving for greatness in every endeavor. Her aspiration to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) reflects a passion for the business world and her drive to succeed in a challenging and impactful career. Ayah is described as possessing an exceptional work ethic, intelligence and determination make her a standout student and a promising leader who is poised to make significant business contributions in the future. Emily Angel, Lebanon High: The senior has been a member of FBLA all four years and her team has placed first at every state competition to date. Additionally, they placed seventh at a national competition this past summer. Emily plans to become a teacher and follow in the footsteps of her late mother, who passed away earlier this school year. She already manages her own business, where she teaches youth tumbling. She hopes to expand that one day and operate her own cheerleading gym in addition to her teaching career. She is described as bright, creative, and has excellent work ethic. Kennedy Cantrell, Greenbrier High: The current president of the school's FBLA chapter who also participated in the 2024 State Leadership Conference. Kennedi DeMarcus, Hendersonville High: Kennedi has served with FBLA for the past three years and is currently the vice president and "heartbeat" of school's chapter. Kennedi is the first to volunteer her time or talents to Hendersonville's student body and community and the school looks to replicate her leadership within its younger student population. Luke Elkins, Stewart County High: A four-year member of FBLA, which ignited Luke's entrepreneurial spirit as he turned his passion for fishing into an environmentally conscious business venture. Re-Baits Soft Plastics was born when Luke realized the number of soft plastic lures tossed into the lakes and waterways locally and across the region. who embodies the organization's three goals of service, education and progress. He devised a plan to collect used lures and recycle them into new lures improving our local waterways. Luke is currently serving as his local chapter's Co-President and as Tennessee FBLA State Vice President. A three-time state and national competitor, he has developed his leadership, public speaking, and professional skills. His dedication to academic excellence is evident in his performance across all subjects and demonstrates a strong work ethic. Taylor Mackenzie Richins, Rossview High: The president of he Rossview High FBLA chapter is described as a student who embodies leadership, dedication, and excellence in everything she does. Has proven herself to be an inspiring leader, guiding her peers with poise and passion. On top of her leadership role, Mackenzie works part time and is a standout member of the dance team, balancing the demands of practice and performance while maintaining a commitment to her academic achievements. Mackenzie's drive, determination, and well-rounded abilities make her a school role model at school and poised for even greater accomplishments in the future. Carly Mitchell, Wilson Central High: The junior was selected for the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) Tennessee State Career Development Conference social media team, a highly competitive opportunity. Carly impressed by showing her passion for showcasing the DECA experience and creativity in content creation. As a team member, she will produce engaging TikTok videos and Instagram Reels to promote Tennessee DECA's brand and the 2025 State Career Development Conference. As a member of this exceptional team, Carly will gain exclusive access to insider information, contribute to Tennessee DECA's social media presence and play an essential role in shaping the digital landscape for DECA members and advisors. Maddox Mooney, Gallatin High: The senior is a driven and dedicated student who showcases strong leadership skills as Gallatin High's DECA President , contributing to a significant growth in membership and student participation. Maddox is also a four-year member of the Gallatin High basketball team, on the tennis team member and actively involved in JROTC. As a leading manager of GreenWave Grounds, Gallatin High's DECA coffee shop, he co-wrote the school's 2025 school-based Enterprise Manual contributing to its operational success and financial growth. As a young entrepreneur, Maddox also owns and operates APEX Exterior Services, demonstrating his commitment to excellence both in and outside the classroom. Justin Price, Riverdale: Described as an outstanding business student with a bright future in the business and marketing industry. A leader who consistently does top notch work with a smile, going above and beyond every day. Joseph Reece, Montgomery Central High: The junior has been an exemplary member of the school's FBLA program for three years, consistently competing and placing at the state level and achieving 6th place nationally in Database Applications. As the parliamentarian of FBLA, Joseph he has shown strong leadership skills and he recently earned two Microsoft Office Specialist certifications, achieving a perfect score of 100% on the Microsoft Excel exam. Alongside his FBLA involvement, Joseph is a dedicated Life Scout working toward his Eagle Scout rank and serves as a Cadet Captain in JROTC. He is an officer/leader in numerous prestigious clubs and a member of over seven clubs that highlight his academics and desire to help his community. Described as a student with a commitment to excellence combined with a willingness to take on leadership roles, reflects his determination to succeed in the business field. Joseph's pursuits illustrate his strong character and ability to lead effectively in diverse environments. Nathan Stevens, Westmoreland High: The senior actively participates in Future Business Leaders of America, winning multiple business competitions and serving as an officer. Described as possessing leadership qualities, a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and a willingness to help others. Claire Warta, Mt. Juliet High: The junior became a member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) since her sophomore year. Claire held the position of reporter as a sophomore and is currently president of the school's chapter. Competed at the State Leadership Conference in Chattanooga and qualified for the National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida. Club membership has grown by 63% as Claire has been acting president. One of 15 high school students chosen nationwide to participate in an entrepreneur program called The Journey. Through The Journey, Claire is on track to launch a business this spring. Also a member of the National Honors Society and the National Technical Honors Society. Involved in church, which includes serving Sundays in the children's department. Has maintained a 4.0 weighted graded point average throughout high school career, which inlcudes Honors, Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment courses. Plans to attend Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona and major Applied Entrepreneurship. Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@ and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Montgomery Central's Reece named The Tennessean Student of the Week
Yahoo
27-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Tennessean Student of the Week honors future business leaders. Vote now in our poll
Twelve students preparing to be future business leaders are all being recognized in The Tennessean's next edition of Student of the Week. Now you can vote for the best of the best because the poll is now open. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and DECA (sometimes called Distributive Education Clubs of America) are both prominent student clubs in Middle Tennessee schools designed to help prepare students for careers and leadership in the business world. We asked area school administrators to nominate their best students from FBLA or DECA for this week's poll. Votes can be cast through noon on Jan. 30 through the link at the bottom of this story. But first, take a look at what each school administrator said about the students they nominated. Ayah Al-Horshi, Overton High: As a two-year DECA member, Ayah has demonstrated commitment to developing her business acumen and leadership skills, consistently striving for greatness in every endeavor. Her aspiration to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) reflects a passion for the business world and her drive to succeed in a challenging and impactful career. Ayah is described as possessing an exceptional work ethic, intelligence and determination make her a standout student and a promising leader who is poised to make significant business contributions in the future. Emily Angel, Lebanon High: The senior has been a member of FBLA all four years and her team has placed first at every state competition to date. Additionally, they placed seventh at a national competition this past summer. Emily plans to become a teacher and follow in the footsteps of her late mother, who passed away earlier this school year. She already manages her own business, where she teaches youth tumbling. She hopes to expand that one day and operate her own cheerleading gym in addition to her teaching career. She is described as bright, creative, and has excellent work ethic. Kennedy Cantrell, Greenbrier High: The current president of the school's FBLA chapter who also participated in the 2024 State Leadership Conference. Kennedi DeMarcus, Hendersonville High: Kennedi has served with FBLA for the past three years and is currently the vice president and "heartbeat" of school's chapter. Kennedi is the first to volunteer her time or talents to Hendersonville's student body and community and the school looks to replicate her leadership within its younger student population. Luke Elkins, Stewart County High: A four-year member of FBLA, which ignited Luke's entrepreneurial spirit as he turned his passion for fishing into an environmentally conscious business venture. Re-Baits Soft Plastics was born when Luke realized the number of soft plastic lures tossed into the lakes and waterways locally and across the region. who embodies the organization's three goals of service, education and progress. He devised a plan to collect used lures and recycle them into new lures improving our local waterways. Luke is currently serving as his local chapter's Co-President and as Tennessee FBLA State Vice President. A three-time state and national competitor, he has developed his leadership, public speaking, and professional skills. His dedication to academic excellence is evident in his performance across all subjects and demonstrates a strong work ethic. Taylor Mackenzie Richins, Rossview High: The president of he Rossview High FBLA chapter is described as a student who embodies leadership, dedication, and excellence in everything she does. Has proven herself to be an inspiring leader, guiding her peers with poise and passion. On top of her leadership role, Mackenzie works part time and is a standout member of the dance team, balancing the demands of practice and performance while maintaining a commitment to her academic achievements. Mackenzie's drive, determination, and well-rounded abilities make her a school role model at school and poised for even greater accomplishments in the future. Carly Mitchell, Wilson Central High: The junior was selected for the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) Tennessee State Career Development Conference social media team, a highly competitive opportunity. Carly impressed by showing her passion for showcasing the DECA experience and creativity in content creation. As a team member, she will produce engaging TikTok videos and Instagram Reels to promote Tennessee DECA's brand and the 2025 State Career Development Conference. As a member of this exceptional team, Carly will gain exclusive access to insider information, contribute to Tennessee DECA's social media presence and play an essential role in shaping the digital landscape for DECA members and advisors. Maddox Mooney, Gallatin High: The senior is a driven and dedicated student who showcases strong leadership skills as Gallatin High's DECA President , contributing to a significant growth in membership and student participation. Maddox is also a four-year member of the Gallatin High basketball team, on the tennis team member and actively involved in JROTC. As a leading manager of GreenWave Grounds, Gallatin High's DECA coffee shop, he co-wrote the school's 2025 school-based Enterprise Manual contributing to its operational success and financial growth. As a young entrepreneur, Maddox also owns and operates APEX Exterior Services, demonstrating his commitment to excellence both in and outside the classroom. Justin Price, Riverdale: Described as an outstanding business student with a bright future in the business and marketing industry. A leader who consistently does top notch work with a smile, going above and beyond every day. Joseph Reece, Montgomery Central High: The junior has been an exemplary member of the school's FBLA program for three years, consistently competing and placing at the state level and achieving 6th place nationally in Database Applications. As the parliamentarian of FBLA, Joseph he has shown strong leadership skills and he recently earned two Microsoft Office Specialist certifications, achieving a perfect score of 100% on the Microsoft Excel exam. Alongside his FBLA involvement, Joseph is a dedicated Life Scout working toward his Eagle Scout rank and serves as a Cadet Captain in JROTC. He is an officer/leader in numerous prestigious clubs and a member of over seven clubs that highlight his academics and desire to help his community. Described as a student with a commitment to excellence combined with a willingness to take on leadership roles, reflects his determination to succeed in the business field. Joseph's pursuits illustrate his strong character and ability to lead effectively in diverse environments. Nathan Stevens, Westmoreland High: The senior actively participates in Future Business Leaders of America, winning multiple business competitions and serving as an officer. Described as possessing leadership qualities, a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and a willingness to help others. Claire Warta, Mt. Juliet High: The junior became a member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) since her sophomore year. Claire held the position of reporter as a sophomore and is currently president of the school's chapter. Competed at the State Leadership Conference in Chattanooga and qualified for the National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida. Club membership has grown by 63% as Claire has been acting president. One of 15 high school students chosen nationwide to participate in an entrepreneur program called The Journey. Through The Journey, Claire is on track to launch a business this spring. Also a member of the National Honors Society and the National Technical Honors Society. Involved in church, which includes serving Sundays in the children's department. Has maintained a 4.0 weighted graded point average throughout high school career, which inlcudes Honors, Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment courses. Plans to attend Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona and major Applied Entrepreneurship. Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@ and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: The best in FBLA and DECA: Vote for The Tennessean Student of the Week
