Latest news with #NALA
Arabian Post
08-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Boutique Dining Giant Tashas Accelerates Global Roll‑Out
Dubai‑based hospitality firm Tashas Group is entering a rapid new phase of expansion across the Middle East and South Africa, with founder Natasha Sideris spearheading a strategy that balances boutique charm with accelerated growth. Operating 40 venues in five countries—including 18 in South Africa, 17 across the UAE, three in Saudi Arabia, and single locations in Bahrain and the UK—the group plans to open a further 15 to 16 restaurants over the next 18 months. Sideris describes a shift from a cautious rollout to full‑throttle expansion. 'We've had very slow and steady growth… now we have an army,' she told Arabian Business, adding that this year alone may see five or six new launches and a first Saudi opening in September. Among the fresh locations are new tashas cafés in Al Ain, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, an Avli venue in Bahrain, alongside six further sites in South Africa. Sideris emphasises that despite the surge in numbers, each venue remains carefully curated. She maintains an 'attention to detail' ethos across interiors, menus and service, preserving the brand's boutique identity even at scale. 'Not too smart, not mainstream casual. It's elevated casual,' she said, underlining the group's market niche in Dubai's competitive hospitality environment. ADVERTISEMENT This accelerated expansion follows the 2020 buy‑back of the group from Famous Brands, restoring majority control to Sideris, her brother Savva, and a minority partner during the pandemic. The founder views the reopening of growth avenues as a chance to give back: the group is in the process of establishing an employee share ownership programme to reward long‑serving staff. Development includes a varied brand portfolio. Beyond tashas cafés, the group operates upscale venues such as Flamingo Room by Tashas, Avli by Tashas, Bungalo34 and NALA. Upcoming concepts include Arlecchino by Tashas, a premium casual Italian eatery, and Café Sofi in Cape Town, named for Sideris's late mother. There are also plans for expansion in Europe, the US and Asia via franchising, with NALA earmarked for up to 300 global outlets. The group's regional strategy is evident in its UAE focus. It aims to penetrate less saturated Emirates—Sharjah, Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah—using both flagship and franchise models. In Saudi Arabia, Tashas plans to open its first beach‑side Bungalo34 venue in RAK and its first restaurant in Riyadh in September. While maintaining quality remains a non‑negotiable, Sideris has acknowledged the escalating cost of expansion in the region. On Dubai Eye 103.8, she revealed that opening new venues carries a projection of AED 9–10 million, depending on format and location. Tashas Group has also invested heavily in infrastructure to support its growth. The Dubai HQ has assembled cross‑regional teams in both the Middle East and South Africa, training more than 14 staff in each locale to manage openings. The group is also launching The Academy, a centre in Dubai dedicated to staff training and hospitality excellence. Sideris points to Southern African staff culture as a key differentiator in their global venues. Initially insisting on 70 percent South African staff in Dubai, that figure has shifted to around 25 percent, yet the brand's core still reflects Southern African warmth and service ethos. As the group builds momentum, scrutiny of quality is intensifying. Sideris oversees monthly audits across kitchens and front of house to ensure consistency across the expanding footprint. The aim is a consistent yet location‑aware experience—whether in Cape Town, Dubai or London—with each venue inspired by its setting.
Entrepreneur
30-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
'Original Shark' Kevin Harrington Selects Ten Innovative, Disruptive Founders
Kevin Harrington has invested in several innovative and disruptive founders over the years. Here, Kevin has handpicked ten founders who are shaking things up. You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Ben Gulak Networked Artistic Learning Algorithm (NALA) is an AI-driven art tech startup founded in 2020 by Benjamin (Ben) Gulak, a MIT graduate with a degree in Computer Science and Data Econometrics, and a lifelong passion for art. NALA is transforming how people discover and purchase art by leveraging advanced recommender engine technology to connect artists directly with the people most likely to love their work based on individual preferences, while cutting out all the middlemen. Ben's rare blend of technical acumen and creative passion began with his own success as an artist. His paintings were exhibited in professional fine art galleries and sold during Miami Art Week at shows like Scope and Context. Experiencing the barriers of the traditional art world firsthand, he envisioned a data-powered platform to open the market and make art more accessible for both artists and collectors. Built on the world's largest fine art database, NALA analyzes user behavior, preferences, and contextual cues to deliver personalized art recommendations, eliminating the traditional gatekeeping of galleries. This democratized model empowers emerging and underrepresented artists to reach global audiences directly, while collectors discover artwork they genuinely love without sorting through irrelevant content or facing high-pressure sales tactics. Ben is actively collaborating with national Departments of Arts and Culture to onboard artists who previously lacked access to the global marketplace, bringing fresh talent to the art world. Robel Yemane Robel Yemane is a multidisciplinary entrepreneur whose career spans architecture, real estate, marketing, transportation, and community building. Born in Sudan and raised in St. Louis after his family immigrated to the U.S., Robel's journey is defined by resilience, adaptability, and impact. After earning architecture degrees, including graduate study in Australia, he launched his career during the 2009 recession, navigating job instability with determination. From working in call centers and warehouses to teaching engineers in Eritrea, every step prepared him for entrepreneurship. Today, Robel is the co-founder of Core Design Impact, a human-centered architecture and engineering firm, and founder of Marathon Real Estate, which focuses on development, acquisitions, and capital investment. He also co-leads The Lead Code, a creative marketing agency, and co-operates Open Ground Collective, an educational real estate platform with monthly speaking panels. Beyond business, Robel is also committed to building a wellness community. He co-founded Soleties Run Club and Sole&Sip, creating inclusive, experience-based spaces for authentic connection. His work is rooted in purpose, shaped by his immigrant background and a desire to uplift others. For Robel, success isn't just personal; it's about helping others see what's possible. Eugene Manley SCHEQ (STEMM & Cancer Health Equity) Foundation is a New York City-based nonprofit led by Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr., a first-generation scholar from Detroit. The foundation works to remove obstacles that prevent individuals from entering and advancing in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medical (STEMM) fields while helping patients access essential information and quality cancer care. SCHEQ offers mentorship programs aimed at supporting scholars who often face challenges due to limited networks and resources. Its health initiatives focus on improving patient education and care for communities that have historically faced barriers in the medical system, drawing on the founder's own experience managing chronic health issues. By emphasizing partnership, clear communication, and practical solutions, SCHEQ strives to create lasting improvements in STEMM education and cancer care, ensuring that more people can achieve their goals and receive the support they need. Anita Davidson Creative BioTherapeutics (CBT) is a growing biotech company focused on developing innovative biologics for treatment-resistant and recurrent cancers. Co-founded by Dr. Donald Davidson and Anita Davidson, CBT takes a novel approach by investigating the root causes of drug resistance and immune evasion, the two major challenges in oncology. Its lead candidate, CBT300, is a first-in-class biologic currently in preclinical development. Designed as a monotherapy platform, CBT300 is being studied for its ability to support the immune system in fighting back against aggressive, late-stage cancers. Unlike many current therapies, early data suggest CBT300 may offer a favorable safety profile and flexibility for lone use or with standard treatments. CBT's research emphasizes conditions with limited options, aiming to offer new hope for patients facing relapsing or difficult-to-treat disease. With a science-first philosophy, CBT strives to push beyond conventional treatment models to address some of the toughest unmet needs in cancer care. Ashton Tate Glory to Glory Fitness, founded by Ashton Tate, has been transforming health education with its F.O.R.M. Curriculum, a comprehensive, values-based program designed to make wellness accessible, practical, and sustainable for students across the U.S. Built around four pillars: Functional Fitness, Optimal Nourishment, Rest and Recovery, and Multiplied Maintenance, the curriculum empowers educators and homeschool families to teach students how to build healthy habits for life. With a mission to provide quality health education for every student in America, this fitness company simplifies complex health concepts into fun, engaging, and actionable lessons. The platform focuses on underserved communities and aims to equip the next generation with the tools they need for long-term well-being. Beyond physical health, the company seeks to inspire hope and purpose, grounded in a commitment to bring glory to God through every aspect of its work. Glory to Glory Fitness is a movement toward lasting health change. David Johnson Resolution Financial Advisors is a boutique firm based in Los Angeles, specializing in the resolution of businesses facing end-of-life challenges. Serving boards, executives, investors, and lenders nationwide, Resolution offers expertise in structured exits, insolvency alternatives, and orderly asset dispositions, prioritizing (1) value recovery and (2) orderly wind downs. The firm specializes in a range of financial and legal tools such as Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors (ABCs), foreclosures, receiverships, and bankruptcy proceedings. Beyond advisory services, Resolution often acts as a fiduciary agent, managing responsibilities on behalf of boards to protect officers and directors. Founded in 2024 by seasoned professionals David M. Johnson, CFA, CIRA, Molly Froschauer, Esq., Jeffrey Klausner, CPA, and Ryan Small, the firm combines over 60 years of collective experience in financial advisory, restructuring, and insolvency. Resolution's mission centers on providing portfolio managers with trusted, expert execution aimed at delivering improved outcomes for all stakeholders involved. Peter Zerzan Peter Zerzan is an award-winning independent film director known for his compelling short films blending action, thriller, and drama. Transitioning from a career as a political organizer, Peter brings a unique storytelling perspective shaped by real-world experience and a strong work ethic. His debut short, Election Night, drew on his background to create a realistic portrayal of political life, earning accolades and festival screenings, including at the TCL Chinese Theater. His second film, The Extraction, is a suspenseful action thriller set in San Francisco's neighborhoods, further showcasing his ability to craft engaging narratives on limited resources. Peter even expanded his horizons recently, with a short romance set shot at India's famous Portuguese-influenced architectural state, Goa. Now focused on developing his first feature film, Peter aims to bring fresh energy and thoughtful preparation to the action genre. Committed to efficiency and collaboration, he values clear vision and teamwork on set. With his growing recognition and passion for filmmaking, Peter Zerzan continues to carve a distinctive path in an evolving industry. Brent Kruel BioFunctional Health Solutions (BHS) is a regenerative workforce healthcare company, leveraging science-backed innovation to radically transform employee health and employer costs. Founded in 2007, BHS has saved organizations and individuals millions by preventing surgeries and workers' comp claims, targeting the root causes of pain, fatigue, and dysfunction, before they escalate. Led by combat veteran and healthcare innovator Brent Kruel, BHS has an unmatched fusion of advanced diagnostics, MIT-validated AI, and precision regenerative therapies, powered by proprietary dosing calculators and clinical-grade devices manufactured exclusively for BHS's own ecosystem. The result is a biochemistry-optimized care that is highly personalized, measurably effective, and radically different from the reactive sick-care model most Americans are used to. With insurance integration already in place across major carriers, BHS enables employers to offer its advanced services without increasing plan costs, amplifying value while improving outcomes. This allows companies to redirect existing healthcare dollars toward therapies that actually reduce claims, elevate performance, and restore health. From Fortune 500 worksites to small businesses, BHS delivers care onsite, virtually, and via mobile clinics through therapies like photobiomodulation, molecular hydrogen, hormone optimization, and brain-body recovery systems. Weekly onsite clinical visits, telehealth, lab panels, remote diagnostics, and 1-on-1 coaching combine into a unified, results-driven model. Jeff Lam Dignity Living, led by CEO Jeff Lam, is redefining residential care for developmentally disabled adults by combining compassionate support with thoughtful business practices. The company operates homes offering 24/7 care in welcoming, home-like environments designed to promote independence through everyday activities like cooking, shopping, and managing finances. Each residence is freshly renovated with modern furnishings, creating a warm, comfortable setting that contrasts with traditional institutional care. Founded on the principle that every individual deserves dignity and a meaningful life, Dignity Living emphasizes social connection through group activities and outings. Currently managing two homes with plans to expand, the organization aims to raise industry standards and improve the quality of life for its residents. Jeff's personal journey, from refugee roots to entrepreneur, drives his mission to build a legacy of respect and care, ensuring that those they serve are valued as active participants in their communities. Andrew Zetterholm MegaRhino is a trusted eCommerce solutions partner that helps small and mid-sized businesses succeed on Amazon. Founded by Andrew Zetterholm in 2016, the company began as a third-party seller, giving its team firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities within the Amazon ecosystem. Leveraging this experience, MegaRhino evolved into a full-service marketing and brand management agency. Today, it supports clients with account management, listing optimization, catalog maintenance, content creation, advertising strategy, and broader business consulting. Andrew, who holds an MBA and has over two decades of small business experience, leads the company with a hands-on, strategic approach. MegaRhino's commitment to data-driven decision-making and tailored solutions has earned it recognition from brands across the pet, health, and outdoor sectors. Whether optimizing listings or defending against counterfeiters, the team ensures every client is positioned for scalable, sustainable growth in the digital marketplace.
What's On
25-06-2025
- What's On
You can now order from Dubai's coolest canteen on Deliveroo
If you don't know about NALA, let us enlighten you. Cafeterias and corner shops are a-plenty in Dubai, serving up quick, fuss-free fare that will satisfy your hunger speedily. Fast and casual – two things everyone loves – they make our lives easier, and while a roadside rodeo is just what we need sometimes, this is Dubai and of course, we have a fancy version of that experience. NALA in Alserkal Avenue is perhaps Dubai's only boujee canteen. Brought to you by tashas Group, parent company of iconic hotspots like Flamingo Room, tashas, Avli and Bungalo34, and helmed by the formidable F&B force Natasha Sideris, this is a new brand of fast-casual dining – a complete flip on its head. NALA opened doors in The Yard at Alserkal Avenue earlier this year, and serves up gourmet delights on the round-time of a McDonalds without compromising on any of the goodness and flavour. Think of all the comfort foods you might crave – that's what they have to offer. Takeout tales The big news is that NALA is now available on Deliveroo, so all their delicious varieties are now available to savour any time, anywhere, from day to night. In the day, you can order from a breakfast menu featuring favourites like creamy corn – parmesan polenta with grilled corn, crispy corn bites, bacon bits, and a golden egg, or the banana and pecan loaf, served with whipped brown sugar butter. From noon, the menu switches up, with options like the eggplant salad, dressed in sticky miso and preserved chilli, the green pasta, the SOF pita and the Harry's Roadhouse stacked with sliced sirloin, Harry's basting, shaved red onions, tomato, iceberg lettuce, and pickles on soft white sliced bread. In true canteen fashion, they also have snacks – specialty cookies, available in six flavours, from spiced caramel to double chocolate. All dishes are priced between Dhs26 and Dhs62. Then there's beverages, with all your coffee house classics served alongside fruity smoothies, innovative mocktails, and bubbly homemade sodas served in NALA branded cans. But if you still want to dine in You can dine-in, choosing between a table indoors in the simple but welcoming canteen-style restaurant, or bask in the lovely sunshine on the tables outside at The Yard. Or if you're in a rush, grab and go from the out-facing counter. And did we mention it's pet-friendly, with water bowls and a help-yourself jar of treats for your four-legged friend? There is also a retail section, so you can shop an array of salts, spices, pickles and sodas to recreate your favourite NALA dishes at home. NALA, The Yard, Alserkal Avenue, daily 9am to 10pm, available on Deliveroo, @enjoynala Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Andhra Pradesh moves to repeal NALA Act, plans seamless land conversion
VIJAYAWADA : State govt directed the officials to ready the guidelines for repealing the Andhra Pradesh Agricultural Land (Conversion for Non-Agricultural Purposes) Act, 2006. The Nala Act governs the conversion of agricultural land to non-agricultural use. The cabinet sub-committee comprising finance minister P Keshav, municipal administration minister Dr P Narayana, revenue minister Anagani Satyaprasad held detailed discussions with the officials on the issue on Wednesday. Chief minister Chandrababu Naidu had announced repealing of the NALA Act during the third district collectors' conference in March. The decision to repeal the Act has been taken the grievances of real-estate developers and commoners into consideration. The cabinet sub-committee reviewed the progress on the issue and directed the officials to immediately prepare proposals to simplify land conversion by allowing automatic conversion upon payment of taxes, eliminating the need to visit multiple offices. Speaking to media, the finance minister said they have asked the officials to prepare proposals detailing how land conversion can be simplified for those setting up ventures in municipalities or establishing industries, ensuring minimal bureaucratic hassle. "We will discuss these proposals in the next meeting, and take a final call on the issue," said Keshav. Minister Narayana explained that the decision to repeal the Act was taken to alleviate public inconvenience. He said that several organisations had raised objections to the high NALA tax rates. He said that they have asked the officials to propose how much the tax can be reduced on the existing rates.
RTÉ News
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
New film classification guidelines for Ireland announced
The Irish Film Classification Office has published its revised and updated Classification Guidelines, with changes in how depictions of drugs, bullying, self-harm, and anti-social behaviour are classified. The IFCO, which is marking its centenary this year, classifies audio visual content for cinema release and home entertainment content sold in Ireland. According to the office, "the publication of the new Guidelines represents a key milestone in IFCO's commitment to transparency and public engagement in film classification." The new revised guidelines were produced following a comprehensive public consultation process and independent research conducted by IFCO and Behaviour & Attitudes in 2023. The IFCO has also published a "plain English" version of the classification guidelines commissioned from the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA). Speaking about the new guidelines, Director of Film Classification Dr Ciarán Kissane said, "The publication of our revised Classification Guidelines marks a key milestone for IFCO. "By expanding the drugs category to include harmful behaviour, we are responding directly to the research published in 2023 and stakeholder feedback during our public consultation. "The new Classification Guidelines reflect our ongoing commitment to ensure our classifications remain relevant and reflect current community standards." "We are particularly proud to introduce a Plain English version of the Guidelines, developed in partnership with NALA. "It is important to us that our Classification Guidelines are accessible and easy to read for all, keeping in mind the younger audiences. By doing this, we hope to increase public understanding of IFCO's work and improve media literacy." In a statement, the office said, "The publication of the new revised Guidelines fulfils a key commitment set out in IFCO's Strategy Statement 2023 to 2025, underscoring the Office's dedication to providing trusted and timely classification and advice and evolving its practices in line with research, public engagement, and societal expectations". To mark the centenary of the IFCO, a new documentary entitled In the Opinion of the Censor, was screened at the Irish Film Institute last May, with an address from the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O'Callaghan TD. Narrated and presented by John Kelleher, Ireland's last Film Censor and first Director of Film Classification, the documentary examines the history of Irish film censorship. Drawing on contributions from historians, filmmakers, movie archivists, and media commentators, In the Opinion of the Censor sheds light on how the evolution of censorship closely mirrored changes in Irish society over the past century. Directed by Andrew Gallimore and Lydia Monin, film blends rare archival footage - drawing on the IFCO material donated to the National Archives in 2023, expert interviews, and scenes from censored films. Speaking at the film's debut screening, Jim O'Callaghan said, "Since its establishment, IFCO has undergone significant transformation, evolving from a body once focused heavily on censorship to one now centred on classification. "It has now been more than 20 years since a film has been censored or refused a certification for the Irish cinema audience and that is a clear demonstration of a positive and welcome shift of approach." "I want to pay tribute to Dr Ciaran Kissane and his predecessors, Mr Sheamus Smith and Mr John Kelleher, for their progressive leadership of IFCO. I have no doubt the office will continue to evolve along with Irish society." Dr Kissane, said, "In the Opinion of the Censor gives us an interesting look into the history of how film censorship has transitioned into classification. At IFCO, we are committed to providing trusted guidance and advice, that supports the availability of a diverse range of audio-visual content to the appropriate audiences. "For the past two years, the majority of our classifications have been in the advisory category. Our classification and accompanying consumer advice helps audiences make informed decisions on what audio visual content they - and their children - watch."
