Latest news with #Diversity
The National
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Soudade Kaadan and Elia Suleiman invited to join Academy behind the Oscars
Syrian filmmaker Soudade Kaadan and Palestinian director Elia Suleiman are among the Middle East figures who have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organisation behind the Oscars. Kaadan is best known for Nezouh, a surreal coming-of-age story set in war-torn Damascus, which won the Armani Beauty Audience Award at the 2022 Venice Film Festival. Her 2018 film, The Day I Lost My Shadow, was also awarded at Venice and became the first Syrian film to screen at the festival in decades. Suleiman, meanwhile, is a seminal figure in Arab cinema, known for works like Divine Intervention and It Must Be Heaven, which explore themes of Palestinian identity and struggle under Israeli occupation through satire and deadpan humour. Kaadan and Suleiman's inclusion comes as part of the Academy's latest round of membership invitations, extended to 534 figures from across filmmaking disciplines. Prominent international names includes Ariana Grande, Dave Bautista, Mikey Madison, Kieran Culkin and Jason Momoa. Those who accept the invitation become voting members of the Academy, with the power to help shape Oscars nominations and winners. They're also eligible to join one of its 18 branches, from directing and writing, to documentary and editing. More than half of those invited come from countries and territories outside the US, in what appears to be a bid to diversify the voting ranks of the Oscars. The Academy, which has more than 10,000 members, has long faced criticism for its lack of representation, particularly in terms of race, gender and geography. The #OscarsSoWhite backlash of 2015 and 2016 sparked a reckoning within the institution, spurring an initiative to broaden its membership and better reflect the global community. 'We are thrilled to invite this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals to join the Academy,' said Bill Kramer and Janet Yang, the Academy's chief executive and president respectively. 'Through their commitment to filmmaking and to the greater movie industry, these exceptionally talented individuals have made indelible contributions to our global filmmaking community.' There is a marked presence of Arab and Middle Eastern talent in the wave of membership. These include several Palestinian talents, such as Mediterranean Fever director Maha Haj, Wedding in Galilee director Michel Khleifi, Another Body editor Rabab Haj Yahya as well as Hamdan Ballal and Basel Adra, recognised for co-directing No Other Land, which won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature this year. The documentary follows the struggles faced by Palestinian journalist Basel Adra as he tries to protect his West Bank village Masafer Yatta from Israeli settlers. Asmae El Moudir was also invited to join the Academy. The Moroccan filmmaker is known for her documentary The Mother of All Lies, the country's submission for best international feature film at the 2024 Oscars. The growing presence of Arab filmmakers in the Academy is an uplifting shift in an organisation that has long focused on Hollywood. Their inclusion brings regional narratives into global focus, while also empowering filmmakers from across the region to shape how cinema is perceived in the industry's most influential stage.
Business Journals
a day ago
- Business
- Business Journals
5 issues that could derail employers in 2025
1. DEI pushback: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives are suddenly under intense scrutiny after both an unfavorable Supreme Court decision and a change in the federal administration, with state officials and legislators signaling a closer look as well. Employers with elements of these programs still in place should review them carefully to be sure that they don't run afoul of current interpretations of antidiscrimination laws. 2. 'Reverse' discrimination: A new opinion from the United States Supreme Court has opened the door a bit wider to so-called 'reverse' discrimination suits, where an employee believes they were discriminated against specifically because they are NOT a minority or a member of an otherwise protected class. The opinion interpreted antidiscrimination statutes to mean precisely what they say, and all claims of discrimination must meet the same standards. Employers should expect to see a wave of these claims going forward. 3. Non-compete agreements: The federal bans on noncompetition agreements championed under the last administration never saw the full light of day, but that doesn't mean these clauses are safe in the future. The current Federal Trade Commission chair, Andrew Ferguson, has signaled that his agency will still scrutinize overbroad non-competes. The heat, while not quite as hot, is still on, and state regulation of non-competes is only increasing. 4. AI issues: AI is here to stay, but as employers rush to embrace a new, potentially world-changing tool, significant risks remain. Employers may find themselves liable for when AI tools used to make hiring or other employment decisions lead to violations of anti-discrimination laws. States have already begun to regulate these tools precisely for this reason, so employers should be wary of letting AI generate liability. 5. ADA failure to accommodate claims: These claims are nothing new, but they remain a serious stumbling block for employers. The Department of Justice withdrew several guidance documents earlier this year, which only serves to muddy the waters further. Employers must be mindful of the need to accommodate employees with disabilities, and they must also be open to a broad interpretation of what may considered a disability. When employers fail to engage in the interactive process, courts take notice.
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Aviation Capital Group and the ISTAT Foundation Announce Recipient of Diversity and Inclusion Fund Grant
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG), a premier global full-service aircraft asset manager, together with the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading Foundation (ISTAT Foundation), announced today the third recipient of a grant from their Diversity and Inclusion Fund. The Fund, which is managed by the ISTAT Foundation and funded by ACG, provides scholarships, internships, and other resources to aviation-focused students in Africa and female aviation-focused students in South America. Universities and nonprofit organizations in these regions developing STEM-related programs to support students toward an entry into aviation can also benefit from this Fund. Maria Restrepo, who is pursuing a Bachelor in Aeronautical Engineering at Pontifical Bolivarian University, was awarded a scholarship that will be applied to her tuition and other educational and developmental costs. Maria has shown exceptional dedication to both her academic success and her passion for the aviation industry. This scholarship will provide her with vital support and greater financial stability as she continues pursuing a career in aviation. 'We are proud to support Maria and students like her who are pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace,' said Gordon Grant, Vice President and Head of ESG at ACG. 'Through our partnership with the ISTAT Foundation, the Diversity and Inclusion Fund is helping to reduce barriers and expand access to meaningful opportunities for underrepresented talent across the globe. Maria's dedication and passion for the industry are truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing all she will accomplish.' 'Maria stood out to the Committee with her passionate advocacy for greater inclusion of Colombia in the global aviation network,' said Dr. Mohamed El- Boraï, ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Committee Chair. 'She articulated clear objectives for her career in aviation, while also emphasizing the importance of social work and community engagement. In 2025, out of 77 total applicants, 29 were female, a figure ISTAT is proud to highlight as it continues to support promising candidates like Maria, in partnership with ACG, in their pursuit of aviation careers.' About Aviation Capital Group Aviation Capital Group is one of the world's premier full-service aircraft asset managers with approximately 500 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2025, leased to roughly 80 airlines in approximately 45 countries. It specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and provides certain aircraft asset management services and aircraft financing solutions for third parties. It was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation. Follow ACG on LinkedIn, and for more information, visit About the ISTAT Foundation The ISTAT Foundation is the charitable arm of the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT). Founded in 1994, the ISTAT Foundation invests in and fosters the future of aviation across the globe by supporting individuals and institutions that promote the advancement of commercial aviation and humanitarianism. Annual grants from ISTAT itself, and contributions from individuals and companies, support the ISTAT Foundation's four programs — Scholarships, Grants, Internships and Education. For more information, please visit
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
A toast to diversity
Celebrating a major milestone, Carlsberg Malaysia was honoured with the Gold award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the 2025 SEEK People & Purpose Awards. From left: Carlsberg Malaysia people and culture business partner (commercial and corporate functions) Cynthia Soo, talent acquisition specialist Wong Siew Peng, talent acquisition manager Woo Yi Lei, people and culture Asia vice president Pauline Lim, organisational development senior manager Grace Ho and organisational development assistant manager Lim Hui Xian represented the company. Carlsberg Malaysia's four-year diversity journey earns prestigious recognition at the 2025 SEEK People & Purpose Awards CARLSBERG Brewery Malaysia Berhad has secured esteemed honours at the 2025 Seek People & Purpose Awards, taking home the Gold award for Best Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in recognition of its workplace transformation initiatives that have redefined corporate culture across the organisation. The prestigious accolade demonstrates Carlsberg Malaysia's success in embedding DEI as a strategic business priority over a four-year journey. This achievement positions the company as a leader in fostering a workplace culture that not only champions diversity but also drives sustainable business and social impact. It sets a benchmark for other organisations across the region. Guided by the company's purpose of 'Brewing for a Better Today and Tomorrow', Carlsberg Malaysia has implemented a comprehensive framework focused on four key pillars: business priority, diverse representation, equal opportunities and inclusive culture. 'We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition,' said Carlsberg Malaysia people and culture director Choy Yen Li. 'This award is a testament to the collective efforts of our leadership and employees in fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to thrive.' 'At Carlsberg Malaysia, we believe that diversity and inclusion are not just values—they are business imperatives,' added Carlsberg Malaysia managing director Stefano Clini. 'This award reflects our commitment to creating a culture where every voice is heard, every individual is respected, and everyone has the opportunity to grow. 'We are proud of how far we've come, and even more excited about the journey ahead as we continue to brew a better today and tomorrow for all,' he noted. Carlsberg Malaysia was presented the Gold award for DEI, a testament to its dedication to fostering inclusivity. Carlsberg Malaysia's DEI initiatives span multiple areas of impact. The company has achieved 63% female representation in the Leadership Team since 2022, while implementing enhanced flexible work arrangements, expanding parental leave and improving facilities for employees with disabilities. The company has also developed inclusive hiring practices, internal mobility programmes and partnerships with organisations like the Enabling Academy to support neurodivergent individuals. Cultural engagement remains a cornerstone of the company's approach, with celebrations of all major festivals and the hosting of open dialogues, such as "Jom! Breakfast with Leaders," to foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. These efforts extend beyond the workplace through collaborations with LeadWomen and as a pioneer member of the ASEAN Inclusivity Collective (AIC), to drive change across the broader business community. Carlsberg Malaysia's DEI efforts are deeply integrated into its environment, social and governance (ESG) commitments, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on gender equality and reducing inequalities.
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Science
- Express Tribune
China's satellite internet achieves 1Gbps, five times faster than Starlink
A team of Chinese researchers has broken new ground in satellite internet technology by achieving a remarkable 1Gbps data transmission from a satellite, a speed five times faster than what Starlink currently offers. The breakthrough, which could revolutionise satellite internet, addresses one of the key limitations of space-based communications: atmospheric turbulence. The development, led by Liu Chao from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Professor Wu Jian from Peking University of Posts and Telecommunications, combines two advanced technologies – Adaptive Optics (AO) and Mode Diversity Reception (MDR) – to ensure fast, stable connections. Researchers were able to develop a high-speed, reliable satellite internet connection capable of providing data transmission at 1Gbps, far surpassing the performance of current satellite services like Starlink. While Starlink satellites orbit around 341 miles above Earth, the Chinese team's satellite operates at an impressive 22,807 miles above the planet, achieving these speeds despite the increased distance. Chinese researchers have just achieved a new 1Gbps data transmission from a geostationary satellite – this kind of speed is unheard of, even for Elon Musk's Starlink. — TechRadar (@techradar) June 24, 2025 This innovation is significant not only for its speed but also for its low error rate, which has increased by nearly 20% compared to previous methods. The experiment was conducted using a 5.9-foot telescope at the Lijiang observatory in China, employing a two-watt laser, the equivalent of the power used by a nightlight. Through a combination of optical adjustments and real-time signal selection, the researchers were able to maintain exceptional connection quality, even with the vast distance to the satellite. The implications of this technology extend beyond internet use on Earth. Its potential could transform communications for space missions and satellite navigation systems. Additionally, if this technology is successfully implemented, it may offer a more reliable internet service in remote areas, including places where traditional broadband is unavailable, providing an alternative to Starlink and other satellite providers. However, it is still in the experimental phase, with the findings published in Acta Optica Sinica as a proof of concept. If commercialised, it could challenge existing satellite internet services and lead to faster, more reliable connections for users around the globe.
