Latest news with #youthEmpowerment
Arabian Business
5 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Riyadh Monopoly board game unveiled, showcasing Saudi capital's culture and landmarks
Riyadh Monopoly, a new edition of the world's most iconic board game, has officially been unveiled in the Saudi capital. The game was launched on June 26, 2025 at a high-profile event held at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Conference Centre, attended by government, cultural, education and media leaders. The launch marks Riyadh's first-ever Monopoly edition, designed to reflect the capital's most recognisable landmarks, historic streets and visionary developments — from ancient quarters to cutting-edge urban hubs like KAFD. Riyadh Monopoly Mazroua Al-Mazroua, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer, at the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC), said: 'Riyadh Monopoly reflects our goal of making big, strategic projects accessible and engaging to all ages. 'As the leading destination for international and local businesses in Saudi Arabia, we are creating new opportunities for the next generation to thrive. We want the new generation to recognise the names and places shaping their future. What better way than through play?'. With over 50 per cent of Riyadh's population under the age of 20, the game aims to bring families and young people together through competitive play — all while promoting awareness of Saudi Arabia's rich culture, modern transformation, and investment in youth empowerment. The Riyadh Monopoly edition is expected to appeal to both local families and international visitors, offering a dynamic introduction to the city through an interactive lens. Riyadh Monopoly will hit stores across Saudi Arabia in September 2025, and is expected to become a popular souvenir and educational tool — helping residents and tourists alike explore the city's transformation from historic capital to modern megacity. Among the iconic locations included in the board game's latest edition are: KAFD Financial Plaza Souk Al Zal Diplomatic Quarter King Fahd Road The Ritz-Carlton British International School
CBS News
14 hours ago
- General
- CBS News
Summer camp in Pittsburgh helps teens and young adults serve the community
You don't typically think of summer camps as a place to work or train, but a special initiative in Pittsburgh is giving teens and young adults the skills and knowledge they need for the future. The Project PEACE summer camp is in its fourth year. Organized by the Wilkinsburg Sanctuary Project for Peace and supporting non-profits Hosanna House, Sleeping Octopus, and WCDC Strong Families, the program sends youth out in the community to do service projects — like cleaning, landscaping, waste removal, painting, and beautification — all under the guidance of volunteer professionals in those fields. The young people also learn interpersonal skills and listen to stories from the residents they help. There were 32 participants this year, many of them focusing on jobs in the Wilkinsburg area. Pastor Janet Hellner-Burris is one of the coordinators. "What it means is giving our young people an opportunity to serve in the community, get to know wonderful people," Hellner-Burris said. "And also get them some skills." There were also nine teens in Pittsburgh on a mission trip from Chicago. Dwaune Dudley was one of them. "We [are] showing them we have patience, and we really want to change they narrative on how they think about us." Duquesne University student Theresa Moore said getting out of her comfort zone has been rewarding. "Communicating and basically marketing yourself and networking so you can go on to do bigger and better things," Moore said. During the week-long campaign, all of the campers were also certified in Mental Health First Aid.
Mail & Guardian
4 days ago
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
Irish business leaders: Africa key to increasing agriculture, food production
Many African countries have doubled the importation of agricultural food crops from outside the continent, even after the ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Area. (Halden Krog/Bloomberg via Getty Images) Irish business leaders whose enterprises operate in Africa have appealed to other businesses to empower Africans, including young people, to increase agriculture and food production on the continent. Promoting education in Africa's food sector, and bringing those individuals forward to lead projects, is key to unlocking the continent's full potential, Chris Teeger of the Kerry Group — which owns the largest and most advanced taste facility in Africa — told a panel discussion at the Africa Ireland Trade Horizons conference in Dublin on Tuesday. Many African countries have doubled the importation of agricultural food crops from outside the continent, even after the ratification of the 'We need to see the value in African people. The youth are the key. The spirit they bring to everything is everything. We need to take those local people and youth, educate them, unskill them and let them lead the future of the food production sector in Africa,' Teeger said. 'We have employed many young people who are graduates from a vast number of universities and they have just grown and grown.' He noted that there is no shortage of resources in Africa and that South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria are leading producers of rice, maize and wheat, adding: 'We need to stop shipping commodities to Africa that are already available in Africa.' Ivor Queally, the chief executive officer of QK Group South Africa, backed Teeger's assessment of food production in the country. The QK group entered South Africa in 2005 and is now a key role player in the cold storage market, boasting one of the leading meat packing facilities in the country. Queally recalled that the company had discovered early on that the process of starting operations in South Africa would not be easy. 'We realised early that there was a gap in terms of education and skills. We therefore had to set up schools to educate our employees. We then noticed a lot of absenteeism in schools and found out that The investment in people, rather than products, had proved a success, Queally added. 'When we entered South Africa, we brought in Irish people to train our employees. Now, we have no Irish employees in South Africa and we bring Africans to Europe to do training on this side.' Africa needs to be promoted in Europe to allow investment that can help the continent reach its full potential, both Queally and Teeger told the forum, adding that Europeans need to understand that opportunities in the food production sector are plenty and that the relationship between the two regions can be equal and mutually beneficial. The journalist's trip to Ireland was sponsored by the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa.
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Travis Kelce receives special award for 'extraordinary' achievement
Travis Kelce has been honored by the state of Ohio for his 'extraordinary commitment, compassion and service' to charity work in his hometown of Cleveland. The Kansas City Chiefs superstar launched his own non-profit organization in Cleveland - Eighty-Seven & Running - back in 2015 with the goal of 'empowering underprivileged youth'. Over the past decade he has worked tirelessly to ensure it continues to help underserved young people strive to become productive citizens, with his foundation offering resources and enrichment opportunities for communities through fundraising, athletic programs, mentoring and more. And to mark its 10-year anniversary, Kelce has been awarded The Oustanding Leadership Award by the Won't Quit Foundation - another non-profit organization in Cleveland. Darnell T. Brewer, a member of Ohio's House of Representatives, announced the three-time Super Bowl winner has received the special honor. 'This award is given out to honor an individual who exemplifies extraordinary commitment, compassion, and service. This award recognizes someone who has gone above and beyond to uplift their community, inspire their peers, and make a lasting impact on the world around them. 'Through consistent action, integrity, and selflessness, they embody the true spirit of leadership and the mission of the Won't Quit Foundation. 'In a world that deeply needs strong, compassionate leaders, your example stands out as a beacon of hope and inspiration. 'Your consistent efforts to create positive change have not gone unnoticed, and this recognition is a celebration of the lives you've touched and the legacy you continue to build.' Fresh off the back of his award win, Kelce enjoyed a round of golf on Saturday at a luxury Hamptons course as he splurged on a private helicopter to take him and a close friend out east. Travis and girlfriend Taylor Swift were spotted in New York City on Friday night grabbing dinner at Italian restaurant Torrisi, after the Chiefs tight end took a private jet to the Big Apple earlier in the day. And a day later he ventured to East Hampton Golf Club with his good friend Ross Travis as they hit the links. Kelce, who wore a white polo shirt, white baseball cap and khaki shorts, was photographed holding a canned beverage as he walked alongside his former Kansas City teammate Travis. The ultra-exclusive club, which opened in 2000, reportedly has an initiation fee of $400,000 for members, who are also said to need a net worth of at least $1million or earn more than $200,000 per year. According to the club's website, it's been recognized as a top 50 golf club in the country with a 'platinum club designation.' The 6,400-yard course also bans carts outside of members who are 'unable to walk the course' due to physical impairments. The club has just 250 memberships, its website says. Nonetheless, Kelce - who will top $111million in career earnings this season - was welcomed to the course for a day during the Chiefs offseason. The 35-year-old and his friends could be seen returning to the helicopter later in the day, as he held his golf shoes in one hand while stepping aboard.
Times of Oman
5 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Forum charts bold future for Oman's young entrepreneurs
Muscat: In a powerful demonstration of national commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development, Muscat witnessed the successful launch of the inaugural edition of the 'Sout Al Shabiba – Tamkeen wa Ta'theer on Monday. Organised by Al Shabiba, a publication of Muscat Media Group, in collaboration with Gulf Leaders Circle, the forum brought together government leaders, business executives, academics, and civil society voices under one roof at the JW Marriott Hotel, Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre. Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sayyid Faris bin Fatik Al Said, and attended by Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali, Chairman of Muscat Media Group, the one-day forum served as a dynamic platform to promote inclusive dialogue, advance the goals of Oman Vision 2040, and reaffirm the nation's dedication to empowering its youth and fostering the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). 'I am honoured to attend this important forum,' said His Highness Sayyid Faris bin Fatik Al Said in his opening remarks. 'It is both timely and necessary for media groups like Muscat Media Group to play a leading role in driving national priorities forward, particularly through such economic forums and initiatives that support the country's development goals.' HH Sayyid Faris stressed that the forum aligns with the central pillars of Oman Vision 2040, which include economic diversification, governorate development, self-employment, and maximising the role of youth in nation-building. The forum opened with a compelling presentation by Dr. Ghalib bin Saif Al Hosni, Chief People Officer at Omantel and Chairman of the Oman Society for Human Resource Management (OSHRM). Dr. Al Hosni addressed the evolving needs of human capital and the essential leadership skills required in today's fast-changing landscape. He shared insights into Omantel's internal leadership programmes, highlighting that more than 60 percent of the programme's graduates now occupy managerial positions within the company. Engineer Amer Al Fadhel, Managing Partner at Competence HR, followed with a futuristic view on the world of work. He discussed how artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation are redefining the employment landscape, emphasising the need for critical skills such as digital literacy, analytical thinking, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving. 'Today, 33 percent of new employees lack basic soft skills,' he noted, stressing the need for flexibility and adaptability among the new generation entering the workforce. One of the highlights of the day was a vibrant panel discussion titled 'Cultivating Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Omani Youth,' moderated by Omani media professional Abdullah Nasser Al Saidi. The panel featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Eng. Abdulrahman Al Yahyaei, CEO of Integrated Gas Company; Eng. Said Al Shanfari, CEO of Oman Convention & Exhibition Center; Ali Ahmed Muqaibal, CEO of Sharakah; Dr. Suleiman Al Hasani, Deputy Dean for Academic and Resources at the Global College of Engineering and Technology; and Khalid Al Mahrouqi, Co-founder and CEO of QPay, a rising Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platform launched earlier in 2025. Engineer Al Yahyaei made a strong case for entrepreneurship as the engine of job creation. 'If you want to build an economy, start with the entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship is responsible for the majority of jobs in many countries. In Mexico, for example, SMEs account for 95 percent of employment, and in Dubai alone, over 600,000 jobs are provided by small and medium enterprises.' Echoing the sentiment, Engineer Al Shanfari highlighted the commitment of Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre to SMEs. 'We work hand in hand with entrepreneurs, giving them real opportunities. Even the carpets in this venue are supplied by a local SME,' he said, pointing out the broader support such businesses receive from institutions like the Oman Investment Authority (OIA) and its affiliated companies. Muqaibal emphasised the importance of originality and innovation in the SME sector, noting that while there are many ideas, the market still suffers from repetition and a lack of differentiation. 'Oman is doing well compared to many Gulf countries in supporting SMEs, but we must ensure liquidity and promote diversity,' he said. Dr. Al Hasani underscored the role of higher education in fostering entrepreneurial thinking. 'Entrepreneurship may not be a standalone subject, but it is embedded across all higher education programmes in Oman, as directed by the Ministry of Higher Education. Still, fear of failure remains a major barrier for many young people,' he added. For Al Mahrouqi, financial technology is a gateway to empowerment. 'Fintech is not new. Even traditional banks are embracing it now,' he said. 'At QPay, you can open an account or apply for a loan in under three minutes. We're here to remove the barriers that have traditionally slowed innovation.' The forum also included a detailed presentation by Qasim bin Mohammed Al Zadjali, Assistant Officer Customer Relationship Management at the Oman Development Bank, who outlined the institution's expanded mandate following Royal Decree No. 84/2023. With the bank now able to provide financing of up to OMR5 million, Al Zadjali emphasised its commitment to supporting small, medium, and even micro-enterprises. 'We offer interest-free loans up to OMR15,000 for self-employed micro-projects — provided the applicant is fully committed to the venture,' he explained. The second panel of the forum focused on 'Policy, Collaboration, and Sustainability for Youth Empowerment,' and was moderated by journalist Khalfan bin Said Al Amri. The session brought together key voices including Hassan Haider Mohammed Jawad Al-Lawati, Chairman of the Oman Association for Persons with Disabilities; Ghassan Fadhal, Director, Tashgheel; lawyer Omran Aljabri, CEO Deputy, Ahmed Al-Muqbali Advocate and Legal Consultants; and Rumaitha Al Busaidi, Vice President, Environment Society of Oman (ESO). Al-Lawati shared a personal and heartfelt perspective on the challenges faced by people with disabilities, particularly stigma and societal bias. 'Our capabilities are no less. What we need is acceptance and opportunity,' he said. Fadhel called for a more integrated framework to support freelance work and entrepreneurship. He also praised the 1.2% initiative, which allocates a portion of government procurement spending toward on-the-job training and employment-linked learning programmes. Aljabri addressed the legal challenges that often intimidate young entrepreneurs. 'It's not funding that stops many youth — it's the fear of legal complications and of failure itself. We need to help them overcome this psychological hurdle,' he said. Rumaitha brought the conversation full circle by emphasising environmental sustainability as a key part of youth development. 'Young Omanis are scientifically and practically ready. What they need is ownership — give them space, let them lead. We've seen great success through our projects, competitions, and environmental initiatives.' Sout Al Shabiba, in its first edition, has already positioned itself as a landmark platform for national dialogue, bringing together decision-makers, youth leaders, and innovators to explore actionable solutions for building a more inclusive and entrepreneurial Oman. In line with the objectives of Vision 2040, the forum champions youth as vital stakeholders in shaping the nation's future — and provides them with the tools, networks, and confidence to lead it. The event was supported by Development Bank, Changan, Turkish Airlines, Global College of Engineering and Technology, and Ahmed Al-Muqbali Advocate and Legal Consultants.
