Latest news with #MichelleLi
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Digital Domain Supports with DMD Teen 'Tszkin' by Creating a Personalized AI Virtual Human to Help Achieve His Dreams
Leveraging advanced technology to create a virtual human, Overcoming limitations, and Transforming constraints into possibilities HONG KONG, July 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The applications of AI virtual human technology are rapidly expanding, demonstrating its value in social good and human-centered care, especially in providing emotional companionship and supporting the continuation of dreams and legacies. Digital Domain Holdings Limited (the "Company"; stock code: 547) is supporting Tszkin Chen, a 16-year-old teen living with a rare disease, in creating his personalized AI virtual human. By leveraging decades of Visual Effects (VFX) expertise with advanced technology, Digital Domain has recreated Tszkin's appearance and voice, supporting his dreams to inspire others and amplifying his impact to give back to society through a virtual presence. Sharing His Life Journey Through Another Self to Inspire Others Tszkin was diagnosed at the age of one and a half with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare disease, and he has relied on a wheelchair for mobility since age 9. Now at 16, he continues to face life with courage, supported by the constant care of his mother, Ms. Michelle Li, and his friends. He has not only pushed his own limits by completing various challenges on land, in the sea, and in the air, but has also taken part in numerous activities. Through his YouTube channel, "snail tszkin," and social media platforms, he dedicates himself to sharing his life experiences with the rare disease community and spreading positivity to inspire others within his limited lifetime. Both the technology and applications of AI virtual humans were new to Tszkin and his mother at first. Through the support and referral of Dr. Eve Wong, the social worker in charge of the "Dreams*2Gather" programme, Tszkin and his mother came across the concept of AI virtual humans and hoped to explore its possibilities to carry on his will and dreams. To support their aspiration, Digital Domain is creating a personalized AI virtual human to empower Tszkin to share his life journey, raise awareness of rare diseases, and inspire others facing similar challenges. "The advancement of AI virtual human technology today not only enables the creation of another me, but also helps turn limitations into possibilities and let me pursue even more of my dreams," said Tszkin. "I imagine being able to talk to a version of myself that can walk and run, and take 'him' to different places to share my story and present him as a role model to bring encouragement and hope to more people. One day, my AI virtual human could even carry on my beliefs, and continue doing meaningful things to give back to society." Leveraging VFX Experience and AI Technology to Recreate a Lifelike Appearance With over 30 years of experience in VFX, Digital Domain has combined its expertise in creating photorealistic human faces with advanced 3D scanning technology. This enables the precise capture and recreation of Tszkin's facial features and expressions. Additionally, Digital Domain incorporates an AI brain, along with voice cloning and speech synthesis technologies, to develop the AI virtual human of Tszkin, which is powered by Momentum Cloud, Digital Domain's real-time control system for virtual humans. The production team photographed Tszkin from multiple angles to capture facial features, expressions, and every detail. Experiencing the process for the first time, both Tszkin and his mother were amazed by the complexity involved in creating a virtual human. The more detailed the steps, the more lifelike the result. Ms. Michelle Li recalled her emotional reaction when she first saw the 3D model of Tszkin's virtual human. "The AI virtual human of Tszkin felt so real, it was like seeing a dream come to life. It looked exactly like the Tszkin I see in my eyes," she said. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to explore this new technology. Tszkin and I hope that the AI virtual human can help present life education and related information in a more approachable way, while also offering emotional and spiritual support to people living with rare diseases or disabilities. As new technologies become part of everyday life, AI virtual humans could help people better understand them sooner. We believe that society can benefit from companion-like figures like this, which offer positive information and inspiration." From Cared-for to Caregiver: AI Virtual Human Opens New Possibilities Beyond technological advancement, AI virtual humans can preserve precious memories and emotional bonds. With familiar faces and voices, they have the potential to bring comfort and companionship, helping friends and family keep their memory alive in a meaningful way. Ms. Michelle Li believes that being able to say goodbye or have conversations with deceased loved ones through an AI virtual human offers positive emotional benefits. "Expressing and releasing emotions through an AI virtual human can be somewhat healing. Some might think it prolongs the grieving process, but ultimately, it depends on how we choose to understand and engage with the technology," she explained. Tszkin, who uses the AI virtual human to help express his beliefs and continue pursuing his dreams, also thinks it can provide emotional comfort to his mother. "My mom has worked so hard to care for me over the years. Now, through the AI virtual human, I can shift from being the one cared for to being a caregiver who supports and accompanies my mom. Being able to give back in this way means a lot to me." He mentioned that Dr. Eve Wong was introduced to AI technology in their previous projects, which led her to think more deeply about how AI could help achieve more, such as turning a finite life into something with infinite meaning and helping more people. "This inspired my mom and me to explore the idea of creating an AI virtual human, and we are truly grateful to Dr. Wong and Digital Domain for their support in making this dream come true," he said. Mr. William Wong, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Domain, stated: "Through advanced AI and virtual human technology, we hope to help more life stories continue and be told in different forms. Creating this personalized AI virtual human for Tszkin is more than just a technological breakthrough, it embodies the principle that technology should serve humanity, reflecting the warmth and care of a human-centered approach. We are truly honored to be part of this journey, supporting Tszkin as he continues to create endless possibilities for his dreams and also advances the positive and diverse uses of technology for social good." About Digital Domain Digital Domain is a pioneer in creating transportive experiences. After more than three decades of evolution, the company has transitioned from its Hollywood origins to achieve global expansion in areas such as Visual Effects (VFX), AI Virtual Humans, and Visualization technologies. Digital Domain boasts a rich legacy, having contributed to hundreds of films and television series, thousands of commercials, game graphics, and experimental immersive experiences. Some of its most notable accomplishments include winning Academy Awards for "Best Visual Effects" for films like Titanic, What Dreams May Come, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, as well as contributing to blockbuster classics such as The Avengers series, and the fourth season of the popular series Stranger Things. Digital Domain has charted a pioneering course into the realms of AI and virtual reality since 2016, revolutionizing the creation of emotionally expressive and photorealistic virtual humans in real-time. The company's AI Virtual Human technology is widely applicable across diverse sectors such as healthcare, elderly service, training and education, concierge service, BFSI, the public sector, entertainment etc. It enhances service efficiency, user experience, and business value. Since establishing the R&D Center at Hong Kong Science Park in Q4 2024, Digital Domain has been actively collaborating with industry partners, universities, and research institutions to explore opportunities in AI development and digital transformation. Digital Domain is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock code: 547) and is headquartered in Hong Kong. The company operates in multiple cities, including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Montreal, Beijing, Shanghai, Hyderabad, and more. For more information, visit the official website – View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Digital Domain Sign in to access your portfolio
New Straits Times
26-06-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Veteran Norliyana soars to high jump gold in Bangkok
KUALA LUMPUR: Veteran high jumper Norliyana Kamaruddin soared to gold at the Thailand Open in Bangkok on Wednesday, clearing 1.75m to top the women's event. The 34-year-old's effort also surpassed the Sea Games bronze medal qualifying mark of 1.73m, previously set by Singapore's Michelle Li at the 2023 Phnom Penh Games. In middle-distance events, Savinder Kaur delivered a solid outing by bagging silver in the 800m (2:13.50) and bronze in the 1500m (4:38.30). Savinder, who clinched 800m silver at the 2022 Hanoi Sea Games, expressed mixed emotions after her double medal haul. "I'm happy to win two medals, but it's unfortunate that I've yet to qualify for the Thailand Sea Games," she said. The Sea Games qualifying times for the events are 2:09.15 for the 800m and 4:26.33 for the 1500m. Meanwhile, Roshan Shawn Singh posted a personal best of 3:57.25 in the men's 1500m, bettering his previous mark of 3:59.50, although it was not enough to secure a medal.
Graziadaily
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Graziadaily
It's Official, These Are The Coolest Sneakers To Sport This Summer
If you're looking for a new pair of trainers, good luck to you. Seriously, there's so much choice and so many 'trending' sneakers that it will probably take you until Christmas, or maybe just Halloween, to find the right pair and, by then, it will probably have gone off the boil and you'll be right back to square one. Happily, however, there's a runner that not only has cult status thanks to a film made in 2003, but is from the kind of everywhere-but-somehow-under-the-radar brand that people will know but they might not know . You know? Michelle Li wearing Onitsuka Tiger ©@himichelleli It could only be Onitsuka Tiger. The Japanese sneaker brand shot to fame in the early '00s when a specific trainer in a very specific shade appeared in Kill Bill: Volume 1 (although the label was founded in 1949). The Mexico 66 in bright yellow with black stripes has become as synonymous with 'the Bride', Uma Thurman's character, as her sword - and it's this version that you've probably been seeing everywhere, from underneath pub-garden benches to the Tube. Amaka Hamelijnck wearing Onitsuka Tiger ©@ Michelle Li, the stylist and writer based in New York, paired hers with a white tee, baggy shorts and a translucent and pleasingly turquoise mac last summer, adding chunky socks to give the sleek trainer some bulk. Amaka Hamelijnck, influencer and podcaster, styled her sunflower trainers with a butter yellow co-ord, a baseball cap and a leather jacket, which pretty much seems like the perfect outfit formula right now (the leather might be overkill in this weather - and you know and we never get to say that!). Hailey Bieber wearing Onitsuka Tiger ©@haileybieber Of course, yellow is just the first and most recognisable frontier of the Mexico 66. You've also got silver, which is another one you'll start noticing in the wild once you've clocked it, as well as black, white and a host of other neutrals with subtly contrasting stripes (Hailey Bieber repped the black-and-white version on a recent holiday). So if you like a trainer that feels light on the foot and teams with everything from baggy trousers to knee-length shorts, bubble-hemmed skirts, and minidresses (you heard me), what are you waiting for? 1. Mexico 66 Birch/Peacoat Sneakers 2. Mexico 66 Beige Grass Green Sneakers 3. Mexico 66 Black/White Sneakers 4. Mexico 66 SD Cream Peacoat Sneakers 5. Mexico 66 Kill Bill 2023 Sneakers 6. Mexico 66 Silver Off-White Sneakers 7. Mexico 66 Triple Black Sneakers 8. Mexico 66 SD Low-Top Sneakers Natalie Hammond is senior fashion news editor at Grazia. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).
Canada News.Net
02-05-2025
- Sport
- Canada News.Net
(SP)CHINA-XIAMEN-BADMINTON-SUDIRMAN CUP-SOUTH KOREA VS CANADA (CN)
Xinhua 28 Apr 2025, 13:45 GMT+10 (250428) -- XIAMEN, April 28, 2025 (Xinhua) -- An Se Young of South Korea celebrates winning the women's singles match against Michelle Li of Canada during the Group A match between South Korea and Canada at BWF Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province, April 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Sun Fei)
Observer
11-04-2025
- General
- Observer
Women-led climate push takes root in Oman
As the world faces the intensifying climate crisis, the Women and Climate (WAC) movement is emerging as a powerful force for inclusive, sustainable change. By fostering spaces where women can lead, collaborate and innovate, WAC is helping shape a future that is not only greener but also more equitable. With the recent launch of its Muscat chapter, Oman has joined a global network of women working towards bold climate solutions, bringing its own unique experiences and wisdom to the conversation. Michelle Li, Founder of WAC, sees Oman's inclusion as a pivotal step. 'Understanding Oman's unique approach to climate resilience — rooted in traditional water management practices and a growing commitment to renewable energy — will enrich our collective efforts,' she says. 'This exchange of knowledge will ultimately accelerate women's leadership and climate action.' The Muscat chapter of WAC aims to serve as a vibrant, inclusive community for women — regardless of background or professional experience — who are passionate about the environment. Whether they are researchers, educators, consultants, or students, WAC provides a welcoming platform for women to connect, share insights and take meaningful steps on climate challenges. Vivian Wood, Brand Strategy Lead and a core member of WAC Oman, played a key role in helping establish the local chapter. 'When I first met Michelle, I was inspired by the platform's supportive spirit and focus on real impact,' she shares. 'We saw a clear opportunity to link women in Oman with this larger global movement — sparking collaboration, inspiration and collective action.' Climate women leaders at WAC Muscat's inaugural City Lead Networking Event Rumaitha al Busaidi, Vice President of the Environment Society of Oman (ESO), emphasises the critical need for gender-inclusive climate solutions. 'UN data shows that 80 per cent of those displaced by climate change are female,' she notes. 'This is a clear indicator of why women must be at the forefront of climate action.' Samiya Sheikh, Strategic Advisor, adds that WAC's strength lies in its ability to unify diverse voices. 'WAC brings together women from different backgrounds, ethnicities and age groups, creating a vibrant blend of perspectives united by a shared goal: climate action.' Beyond conversation, WAC's initiatives provide access to expert resources, leadership development opportunities and platforms for policy engagement. Through a global network and regular events, women are encouraged to step into leadership roles and champion sustainability at local and international levels. Dr Zahra Allahdad, an environmental consultant specialising in ESIA, climate change mitigation and water resource management, highlighted how WAC has empowered her to expand her reach and impact. 'This network fosters learning and strengthens women's voices in both ecological and societal issues,' she says. Maryam al Lawati, a Senior Teaching Assistant at GUtech with a background in chemical engineering and a master's in sustainable energy, found her involvement deeply enriching. 'I was inspired by the passionate researchers I met and the collaborative spirit that drives real solutions,' she explains. Her focus includes exploring how climate change uniquely affects women and driving innovation to support a more resilient future. Michelle Li, Founder, Women and Climate Ramya Gururajan, Muscat City Lead for WAC, champions the importance of solidarity. 'Women have an incredible ability to uplift each other and when we collaborate, the impact is extraordinary,' she reflects. Tazia Mehdi, Managing Director of Tazia@ points to WAC's growing influence. 'It's not just about amplifying women's voices — it's about enabling them to shape policies, lead initiatives and build a better world.' Originally from Trinidad & Tobago, she has witnessed firsthand the severe impacts of climate change — rising hurricane intensity, declining marine life and coastal erosion. These experiences continue to fuel her commitment to climate advocacy, particularly in support of vulnerable island communities. As WAC expands globally, its presence in Oman is energising a new wave of female-led climate action — building bridges, shaping ideas and sparking sustainable change, one city at a time.
