To retain talented expatriates working in the Kinddom, Saudi Arabi has granted citizenship to two Indians – Dr Shamim Ahmad Butt and Faraz Khalid. The two are in the first batch of outsiders who have been given this privilege. Others include young professionals from France, Singapore and Lebanon.
This comes in the wake of a royal decree issued on July 4 that aims to grant Saudi citizenship to individuals with exceptional talents in various fields and is also in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 which aims to foster an environment that attracts, invests in, and retains exceptional creative minds, the local media reported.
Dr Shamim Ahmad Butt is the Deputy Head of the Emergency Department at King Saud Medical City, Riyadh.
Dr Butt is accredited by the Saudi Commission as a resident of the Saudi Council of Emergency Medicine.
He is also the winner of the 2007-2008 Zonn Perkin Gold Medal for Emergency Research.
Faraz Khalid, CEO of Noon holds an MBA in entrepreneurial project management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
He serves as the CEO of Noon, co-founded Namshi, and has been instrumental in the creation, launch, and expansion of the e-commerce platform.
According to Saudi Gazette Newspaper as per a Royal decree, Saudi citizenship can be granted to scientists, medical doctors, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and distinguished talents with unique expertise and specializations.
The announcement aligns with the Kingdom’s initiative to attract experts and exceptional global talents in religious, medical, scientific, cultural, sports, and technological fields.
This move supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of creating an attractive environment that fosters retention and investment in exceptional creative minds.
This decree is an extension of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to attract prominent talents whose expertise contributes significantly to economic development, health, culture, sports, and innovation.
Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper reported on several notable individuals who have been granted Saudi citizenship by the recent royal decree. Among them is Mehmood Khan, an American and the CEO of the Hevolution Foundation, recognized for his contributions to the health sciences.
Jackie Yi-Ru Ying, an American scientist of Singaporean origin, has also been granted Saudi citizenship. Ying was the founding Executive Director of the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology in Singapore and currently leads the NanoBio Lab.
Lebanese scientist Niveen Khashab has been honored with Saudi citizenship for her advanced scientific expertise and contributions to bioengineering and nanomaterials. Khashab is a founding member of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and has been an Associate Professor of Chemical Sciences and Engineering there since 2009.
Noreddine Ghaffour, a French scientist, has been recognized for his expertise in environmental science and engineering, particularly in desalination technologies. Holding a PhD in membrane separation techniques from the University of Montpellier, Ghaffour is a Professor at KAUST.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / posted by Aasha Khosa, ATV / July 11th, 2024
Sulaymaan Al Majid, a 26-year-old Indian-origin doctor, was born and raised in the UAE. (Photo: LinkedIn)
A 26-year-old Indian-origin doctor, Sulaymaan Al Majid, was killed in a light aircraft crash off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. The crash occurred on December 26, shortly after takeoff. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident.
In Short
A 26-year-old Indian-origin doctor was killed in the UAE in a plane crash
Sulaymaan Al Majid had hired a light aircraft for sightseeing with his family
Majid was a clinical fellow at the County Durham and Darlington Trust in the UK
A 26-year-old Indian-origin doctor was among two people killed in a light aircraft crash in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The aircraft, that took off from Jazirah Aviation Club, crashed off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah on December 26.
Two people, Sulaymaan Al Majid, an Indian-origin doctor, and a 26-year-old Pakistani woman who was flying the plane, lost their lives in the crash.
The doctor, Sulaymaan Al Majid, was a clinical fellow at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust in the UK. Born and raised in the UAE, Sulaymaan hired the aircraft for a sightseeing experience.
His family, including his father, mother, and younger brother, were present at the aviation club to watch the flight. Sulaymaan’s younger brother was scheduled to take the next ride, the Khaleej Times reported.
The crash occurred shortly after takeoff near the Cove Rotana Hotel, close to the beach. The aircraft was piloted by a 26-year-old Pakistani woman, who also lost her life in the accident.
Sulaymaan’s father, Majid Mukarram, recounted the events leading up to and following the crash.
“At first, we were told the glider had lost radio contact,” Majid said. “Later, we were informed it had made an emergency landing and that the occupants had been taken to the hospital. When we reached the hospital, we were told that both were critically injured and undergoing resuscitation efforts. Sulaymaan passed away before we could see him, and his time of death was recorded as past 4:30 pm.”
Sulaymaan was also known for his dedication to medical advocacy. He served as Co-Chair of the Northern Resident Doctors Committee of the British Medical Association, where he worked to advance the interests of his peers, according to his LinkedIn profile.
The family, who resides in Sharjah, is preparing for Sulaymaan’s funeral at Al Ghusai graveyard.
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed the crash on Sunday. Work teams and relevant authorities are continuing their efforts to determine the cause of the accident.
source: http://www.indiatoday.in / India Today / Home> News> World / by Girish Kumar Anshu, India Today World Desk / December 30th, 2024
Staque, a global leader in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced technology solutions, have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thumbay Group’s Gulf Medical University (GMU) and its Thumbay College of Management and Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (TCMAIH). This strategic partnership aims to revolutionize the integration of artificial intelligence and quantum computing into healthcare education, training, and research, with far-reaching implications for the region’s healthcare and technology sectors.
Founded by Dr. Thumbay Moideen in 1997, Thumbay Group is a diversified international business conglomerate with operations across different verticals including Education, Healthcare, Medical Research, Diagnostics, Retail Pharmacy, Health Communications, Retail Opticals, Wellness, Nutrition Stores, Hospitality, Real Estate, Publishing, Technology, Media, Events, Medical Tourism, Trading and Marketing & Distribution. Headquartered in Dubai, the group presently employs around 3000 people.
The MoU establishes a collaborative framework to harness the transformative potential of AI in healthcare, focusing on both academic innovation and practical applications. This collaboration aligns with the UAE’s vision for technological leadership and aims to position GMU and Staque at the forefront of global healthcare advancements.
Driving AI Innovation Through Strategic Partnership
The agreement outlines several groundbreaking initiatives, including:
● Thumbay-Staque Lab in Artificial Intelligence: This state-of-the-art lab, to be established at GMU’s campus, will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research and practical applications of AI in healthcare, focusing on areas such as diagnostics, personalized medicine, and healthcare operations.
● Internship and Employment Pathways: Staque will facilitate internships, short placements, and employment opportunities for TCMAIH students, fostering UAE Nationals’ empowerment and integrating local talent into the global healthcare technology landscape.
● Collaborative AI Programs: Together, Staque and GMU will develop fellowship, short-term, and long-term programs in healthcare AI, leveraging a revenue-sharing model to promote sustainability and scalability.
● Joint High-performance Computing Research Initiatives: The partnership will support joint research projects through the Thumbay International Research Grant, targeting high-impact areas in AI, quantum computing and healthcare.
● Global Collaboration and Expertise Sharing: Faculty and staff exchanges will enhance knowledge transfer, while industry partnerships will drive regional and international expansions of TCMAIH’s and Staque’s initiatives.
Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group UAE, commenting on the partnership said, “Our partnership with Staque is a natural extension of our commitment to advancing healthcare education and practice. By integrating AI into our curriculum and research initiatives, we are empowering our students and faculty to become leaders in a rapidly evolving healthcare ecosystem.”
Dr. Muhammad Khan, CEO of Staque, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in merging AI and healthcare education. By establishing the Thumbay-Staque Lab, we are taking significant steps toward a future where AI drives meaningful improvements in patient outcomes, operational efficiencies, and healthcare innovation.”
Transforming Healthcare Through AI
Staque’s extensive expertise in AI, quantum computing, and robotics complements GMU’s reputation for academic excellence. This partnership aims to tackle critical challenges and unlock opportunities across healthcare and education, including:
● AI-Powered Diagnostics: Tools for early disease detection and personalized treatment planning, using advanced algorithms and quantum computing to process vast datasets with unparalleled speed and accuracy.
● Adaptive Learning Systems: AI-driven systems to create personalized educational experiences for healthcare professionals, addressing skill gaps and enhancing training efficiency.
● Healthcare Operations Optimization: Autonomous intelligence solutions to streamline administrative workflows, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance the overall patient experience.
“Medical research and practices are ripe for innovation. Accuracy, accessibility and affordability issues have a critical impact on global health care. The adoption of AI and quantum computing are essential to address these issues” said Dr. Raees Tonse, Staque Board Member who catalyzed the partnership.
The Thumbay-Staque partnership also explores regional and international opportunities for expanding AI and quantum computing programs, enabling students and professionals to access world-class resources and tools. These initiatives will not only strengthen the UAE’s position as a global innovation hub but also set new benchmarks for integrating emerging technologies into healthcare systems.
About the Partners
Thumbay Group and Gulf Medical University
Thumbay Group, a leading private conglomerate in the UAE, operates Gulf Medical University (GMU), a premier institution recognized for its excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare delivery. The Thumbay College of Management and Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (TCMAIH) is dedicated to marrying technology and medical education, ensuring students and health care professionals are equipped to thrive in a technology-driven healthcare landscape.
Staque Solutions
Staque Solutions bridges the gap between cutting-edge computer science and real-world business needs. With expertise spanning AI, blockchain, quantum computing, and software engineering, Staque empowers organizations to thrive in an era of rapid technological advancement through its autonomous intelligence and high-performance computing solutions. Founded in Calgary, Canada, Staque has grown into a global organization with presence in North America, the GCC, and Asia.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / December 26th, 2024
It was the late evening of October 25, 2023. I was fresh to the city of Riyadh, only having arrived two days prior, and had just secured a job in the construction industry. Out of the blue, I received a message from someone I’d come to admire even before meeting him—a humble and kind-hearted gentleman whose companionship would soon become an immense learning experience. He invited me to his office, and, understanding my unfamiliarity with the city, graciously arranged for someone to pick me up.
When I entered his office, I was greeted by a sense of calm and warmth, as though this was a place where great ideas took shape. It was here, in this serene setting, that I first met Mr. Wayez – Syed Wayez Ahmed, Founder and CEO of Innovwayz Technologies Company, KSA. Though we’d only spoken over the phone before, his welcoming embrace and the genuine warmth with which he received me made me feel as if I’d found a brother in this unfamiliar city.
I handed him a box of sweets I’d brought from Hyderabad, a gift from Brother Akram Muhammad, who had introduced us. With a modest smile, Mr. Wayez shared a bit about his journey, explaining that he had been running Innovwayz for over a decade but had visions of doing much more, particularly in empowering communities back in India.
Just then, a man entered the room with a charming smile. It was Mr. Mohammad Zaki, the Vice President of Innovwayz. Turning to him, Mr. Wayez instructed, “Mr. Zaki, take Azhar’s interview. Find out his interests and strengths, and see where he might best fit in our team.” I was taken aback. I had come expecting only a casual meeting but was now being offered an impromptu job interview. Although I had just secured another job, I didn’t hesitate and agreed to the interview.
What followed wasn’t an interview in the traditional sense – it was more of an introduction, a conversation where I shared my background, my education, and my experiences back in India. Mr. Zaki listened attentively, and by the end, I felt less like a candidate and more like a member of the Innovwayz family.
Returning to Mr. Wayez’s office, I was introduced to another remarkable individual: Mr. Abdul Khaliq. With a warm demeanour and a quick smile, he welcomed me with kindness. A close friend of Mr. Wayez, Abdul Khaliq wasn’t merely an employee at Innovwayz; he was its backbone. Over time, I would come to see his tireless dedication, his unwavering calm even during the busiest days. In that moment, though, we only exchanged a few words, but his commitment and humility left an impression that would deepen with every encounter.
As the night grew late, and the conversation grew warmer, Mr. Wayez extended an offer for me to join Innovwayz. When I hesitated, explaining that I’d already accepted another position, he simply looked at me with a calm resolve and said, “Chotey motey jagah kya kaam karte, yaha aye. Hum ko bhut kaam karna hai” (“Why work for smaller places when there’s so much we can achieve here?”).
I left his office that night feeling a sense of purpose and excitement, sharing the experience with friends and family. After performing Istikhara – a prayer for guidance when facing a significant decision – I decided to join Innovwayz. On October 29, I stepped into my new role as Business Development Associate, eager to contribute to a company that felt more like a mission than a job.
Spark of Collaboration: Founding the Business Friends Forum On my very first day at Innovwayz, I mentioned to Mr. Wayez that I knew a few businessmen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and suggested a casual meet-up to connect and explore potential collaborations. Without a moment’s hesitation, he agreed. “Invite them over,” he said warmly. “We can meet after Maghrib.”
That evening, our office buzzed with the energy of a gathering that would become the first of many.
Eight of us came together – Anees Mohammad, Director of Seahath Canning Company from Goa; Abdul Jabbar, the Country Manager for Seahath in KSA; Hamza Ali, Co-Founder of Standard Touch from Karnataka, alongside his brother and Country Manager, Abul Ala; Imranuddin, Founder of DB Systems; Abdul Khaliq, Innovwayz’s dedicated Business Development Manager; and, of course, Mr. Wayez and myself.
The conversation flowed naturally as we shared ideas, challenges, and aspirations over the next couple of hours. Toward the end, inspired by the potential in the room, I suggested the formation of a Business Friends Forum – a network to bring together Indian entrepreneurs in KSA. Everyone was enthusiastic, and the idea took root.
That humble gathering sparked something incredible. Within a year, over 70 entrepreneurs and aspiring businesspeople joined our community, each contributing their unique experiences and dreams. And so, the journey of the Business Friends Forum began, growing with every meeting, with every new connection.
Mr. Wayez Ahmed grew up in Karimnagar, Telangana, and after completing his MBA, he set off for Hyderabad in search of a job. There, he poured his energy into supporting his friends’ business ventures, but the early attempts didn’t pan out as he’d hoped. When opportunity didn’t knock, Wayez looked outward, eventually relocating to Saudi Arabia, where he had relatives who had already established themselves. He joined SAB as a developer and, over the next decade, gained invaluable experience while quietly nurturing his own ambitions.
Building Innovwayz Technologies
Through those years, his passion for business was unwavering. He worked tirelessly on various projects, from school initiatives to community functions – constantly experimenting, always learning, and never discouraged by setbacks. Finally, with his uncle’s support, Wayez founded an IT consulting firm a decade ago, inviting his closest friends to join him in the venture. The result of this relentless dedication and teamwork was Innovwayz Technologies, now a thriving business in Riyadh.
To build a company in Saudi Arabia is no small feat, especially for an expatriate from a modest Indian town. Unlike India, where the unorganised sector allows room for experimentation, Saudi Arabia’s highly regulated environment adds layers of complexity. For expatriates, starting a business meant partnering with a Saudi national. But recent changes to KSA’s business laws through the Ministry of Investment (MISA) allowed foreign entrepreneurs to operate independently, provided they maintain a parent organisation in their home country.
Today, Innovwayz stands tall – a company rooted in India, operating mainly in Saudi Arabia, and now expanding into the UAE. Mr. Wayez’s journey from a small town in India to the bustling business scene of Riyadh is a testament to resilience, vision, and the unwavering belief that he could succeed against the odds.
Venturing Beyond IT: Subhan Bakery & Alipapa Distribution A few days into my new role, I sat down with Mr. Wayez Ahmed for a meeting where he shared details of a few ambitious projects his team was working on. Among them were plans to introduce Subhan Bakery, a celebrated bakery brand from Hyderabad, to Riyadh, and a food distribution company named Alipapa, a project with groundwork that had been laid for over a year.
Before we concluded our discussion, curiosity got the better of me, and I asked, “With our IT business running successfully, what made you venture into other fields?”
His answer was nothing short of inspiring. “What good is the money we’re saving if it doesn’t create opportunities? By investing in new ventures, I can provide employment to deserving young people,” he said, with a conviction that made me admire his vision even more.
After over a year of hard work, Subhan Bakery finally launched in Riyadh during Ramadan 2024, complete with a fully operational production unit and an outlet. To my surprise, Mr. Wayez asked me to take the lead on the project. I hesitated, admitting I had no prior experience managing such a venture. He responded with the same encouraging wisdom he had shown before: “I’m just as new to this as you are. Let’s learn as we go, and if we make mistakes, we’ll grow from them. Don’t worry; just give it your best.”
His words gave me the confidence to dive into the project wholeheartedly, embracing the learning curve and tackling each challenge as it came.
Meanwhile, he was also dedicating his time to overseeing the progress of Alipapa, which was officially registered in India and on track to launch in Saudi Arabia. With every step, he encouraged the team working on this food distribution company, confident that soon it would be yet another successful venture in his growing portfolio.
Bridging Borders: Shaheen’s Journey to Riyadh One fine afternoon, I found myself in an insightful conversation with Dr. Thouseef Ahmed, the CEO of Shaheen Group of Institutions. During our discussion, he mentioned that Dr. Abdul Qadeer, the Chairman of Shaheen, was planning a visit to Saudi Arabia in September 2024. Without a second thought, I immediately messaged Mr. Wayez about the upcoming visit. True to his proactive nature, he replied right away, saying, “Okay, arrange the meeting and coordinate with the team,” even though he was vacationing in India at the time.
Together, we prepared everything meticulously. When Dr. Qadeer arrived, we held a productive meeting with the Shaheen team, followed by a social gathering and interactions with other community stakeholders in Riyadh. Inspired by this, we planned a visit to Shaheen School in Bidar the following week. After a series of discussions, an MoU was signed in Hyderabad between Dr. Abdul Qadeer and Mr. Wayez, marking the beginning of a new chapter: the establishment of Shaheen School in Riyadh, set to open in the upcoming academic year (around March 2025).
Through this experience, I observed remarkable leadership qualities in Mr. Wayez – his ability to delegate, his knack for identifying potential in others, and his unwavering commitment to uplift friends, family, and those in need.
The Visionary Journey from Hyderabad to Hara: Mr. Wayez Ahmed’s Path of Purpose
His entrepreneurial journey from Hyderabad to Hara wasn’t easy; it was filled with challenges, learning from setbacks, and continuously engaging and inspiring people around him. To those reading this, he may now appear as a business tycoon, but at heart, he remains simple, humble, compassionate, and deeply kind.
In a nutshell, his journey so far is marked by the following ventures:
Startup 1: Innovwayz Technologies Company (IT Services) – Brought together childhood friends to build a team.
Startup 2: Subhan Bakery, KSA (Food Production) – Partnered with an experienced businessman to launch a new team.
Startup 3: Alipapa Global Merchandise (Food Distribution) – Engaged his cousins to form a dynamic team.
Startup 4: Shaheen Group Middle East (Educational Services) – Brought friends and relatives together to expand into the education sector.
One thing is clear about Mr. Wayez: he is driven by purpose, not greed. His aim is to grow across multiple sectors, providing a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive alongside him. He embodies collaboration over competition, fostering a shared vision of collective success.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Features> Focus / by Syed Azharuddin, Radiance News Bureau / November 05th, 2024
Dr. Kaup Mohamed, Dean and Managing Director of London American City College, UAE, and Vice-Chancellor of London American University College, Zambia, participated as a guest speaker at the MENA chapter of Evolve by Meritto.
Dr. Kaup took part in a panel discussion on “Recruiting the Next Generation of Students in the Middle East,” where he shared insights on strategies, trends in education, and approaches to admissions and marketing.
The event brought together educators and professionals from the education sector to discuss developments and challenges in the field. London American City College expressed appreciation for Dr. Kaup’s contribution to the discussion.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / November 28th, 2024
Thahaani Hashir released her 3rd book at the SIBF on Sunday afternoon. Kamal Kassim/Gulf today
Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) on Sunday was full of hustle and bustle. Lots of beautiful minds landed in Sharjah to regale audiences in the evening.
Celebrated Indian writer Chetan Bhagat inspired his fans, while Bollywood star Huma Qureshi mesmerised her audience. Malayalm actor, author and presenter Aswathy Sreekanth also arrived at the book fair on Sunday evening to talk about her latest book “Kaali.” She also enchanted her fans with her exciting talk.
On the other side, Writers Forum of the SIBF was swarming with school-going children in the afternoon. They were all chirping and giggling with excitement and joy. They were at the venue to cheer their young friend and classmate Thahaani Hashir. Thahaani’s journey to the world of writing is indeed incredible. Her brush with pen and paper started very early in life.
We expect a 16-year-old student to read books to develop his or her intellect, but Sharjah-based Indian student Thahaani Hashir was gracing the podium of SIBF with her third book of poetry, “Made For Love,” in the presence of a huge gathering, who were constantly clapping for this young girl. It was indeed a moment to behold.
Thahaani is an 11th grade student of Our Own English High School, Sharjah. Born and brought up in the UAE, she hails from Kollam, Kerala, India.
Thahaani made her debut at the age of 10 with her book “Through My Window Panes.” The book was released in 2018 and she became the youngest author at the SIBF. She received lots of praise for her debut book. Her second book of 30 poems “Flames That Never Died” came in 2021, while she was 13.
Talking to Gulf Today before the launch of her book, she said, “I always had the habit of writing. I must have been six years old when my class teacher noticed the talent in me. I would write short stories or something in song format. I did not know then how a poem looks like. But it was my class teacher Madhavi ma’am who saw this talent in me and she encouraged me to carry on and that’s how I got into writing.”
Thahaani’s ability to express her emotion with so much of maturity at this age is what makes her a shining star.
“Made For Love” is a compilation of 60 poems written by Thahaani Hashir and illustrated by Ashar Gandhi. Each of the 60 poems are depicted through one line illustration (entire illustration is drawn with a single continuous line, the pen is only lifted when completed). It is a rare occurrence to see all the poems in a book depicted through one line art.
Talking about her book she said, “Majority of my poetry is about love.” When asked how much time it took for her to complete her third book, she informed, “After my second book, I did not write for a good while for some reason. It could be writer’s block sort of thing. But in the last one year I could find my rhythm back and here I am with my new book.”
When asked to reveal her favourite author, she said, “Palestinian poet and author Mahmoud Darwish is my all-time favourite.”
Daughter of a civil engineer father and journalist mother, Thahaani has received several accolades.
Praising Thahaani, one of her teachers, who was present at the event said, “While she was in Grade 1, she was brilliant in all the subjects. She would always come to meet me with different ideas. Everyday she would write and show to me. I really have no words to express her talent and I am extremely happy to have been her teacher.”
The 12-day cultural extravaganza, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, is themed “It Starts with a Book,” and has in store 1,357 activities for children and adults alike. It will come to a close on November 17 after playing host to 2,520 publishers from 112 countries.
source: http://www.gulffoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> Culture / by Raghib Hassan, Staff Reporter / November 14th, 2024
Sania Khan, originally from Shahjahanpur, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, has been honoured with the prestigious SHE INSPIRES AWARD 2024 in the Rising Star category in the United Kingdom.
Sharing his pride, Sania’s father, Mehr Alam Khan, Editorial Consultant at Cineink, London, said, “This remarkable recognition reflects her inspiring journey marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to creating meaningful change.”
Sania’s journey began in the small village of Shahjahanpur. Despite facing personal challenges, she founded the Silver Lining Fostering Agency in London, a leading organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable children and empowering foster carers.
Under her leadership, Silver Lining Fostering was awarded an “Outstanding” rating by Ofsted in 2024, a testament to its excellence in providing safe, nurturing homes and comprehensive support for foster families. The agency supports over 60 foster families and 70 children across London and the Midlands.
Sania said, “The seeds of my dreams were sown in my village. Despite limited resources, I learned that with determination and vision, the seemingly impossible can be achieved. Those lessons inspire me daily to create opportunities for others, especially vulnerable children.”
Sania completed her early education at Dewan Public School in Meerut and pursued higher studies at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. In 2018, she founded Silver Lining Fostering, which focuses on tailored support for foster carers and achieving positive outcomes for children, particularly those who have faced immense adversity.
On receiving the award, Sania said, “This recognition isn’t just about me; it’s about the incredible foster carers, staff, and children who inspire me every day. Together, we’ve shown how fostering can change lives. I hope this motivates more families to step forward and provide loving homes for children in need.”
Her agency stands out for its innovative Wrap Around Service and its commitment to recruiting foster carers from diverse and underrepresented communities. Sania’s leadership has not only empowered carers to achieve personal milestones like financial independence and home ownership but has also set new standards in foster care.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of Nation>Awards / by Radiance News Bureau / November 23rd, 2024
Prominent Kannadiga businessman SM Syed Khalil passed away after brief illness in Dubai in the wee hours of Thursday.
Syed Khalil SM was also the Chairman of Madhyama Communications Ltd., Mangalore and was known across Coastal Karnataka for his social services and contributions in the fields of Kannada, Konkani languages and their culture.
Syed Khalil, affectionately known as ‘C A Khalil’ among the general public, hailed from the Nawayat community of Bhatkal. His journey to prominence and distinction had not only brought pride to the Nawayat community but also to Kannadigas and Indians at large. He was renowned for his remarkable achievements and dedication to international trade, social service, and the education of underprivileged children.
Having ventured to the Gulf in 1978, Khalil’s faith and dedication to the Galadari family propelled the Galadari Company to unparalleled success over three decades. He was serving as the Founder Chairman of K&K Enterprises General Trading Company in Sharjah. Khalil also held positions in numerous educational and social service organizations in Karnataka and beyond.
Syed Khalil stood as one of the town’s first chartered accountants, renowned for his financial expertise. He was also a respected leader in social service, religious, and educational circles. His leadership roles have included the presidency of prominent organizations such as Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen and Rabita Society. Khalil was an advocate for girls’ education and has played a pivotal role in establishing extensive educational institutions.
Manki Village (Honnavar Taluk,Uttara Kannada District), KARNATAKA / Medina, SAUDI ARABIA :
Riyadh:
Abdulqadir Mohammed Meera Shaikh, a student from the Islamic University of Medina and hailing from Manki village in Honnavar Taluk, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, has won the first prize in the prestigious Arabic Language and Culture Competition.
Held in Riyadh and organised by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the competition saw over 1,000 students from various nationalities showcasing their skills in Arabic language proficiency and cultural understanding.
Abdulqadir’s exceptional performance earned him a gold medal and a significant cash prize.
Nadeem Ahmed, the dynamic founder of ‘Indians in Sydney’, has been awarded the prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the Indian diaspora and broader community in New South Wales.
The award acknowledges individuals whose work has significantly enhanced the quality of life for members of their community, and Nadeem’s tireless efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of many.
A leader with compassionate and vision
Since founding ‘Indians in Sydney’ in 2007, Nadeem has devoted himself to creating a supportive and inclusive community for Indian migrants and residents. What began as a modest initiative has grown into the largest Indian community platform in NSW, now boasting over 135,000 members.
Under his compassionate leadership, ‘Indians in Sydney’ has become a beacon of unity, where cultural heritage is celebrated, newcomers are supported, and vital connections are made across generations.
Upon receiving the award, Nadeem expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition is not just for me but for everyone who has been part of Indians in Sydney. We are a collective force of people who care about each other and who are passionate about giving back to the community. I am truly humbled by this award, and it motivates me to continue serving and building stronger connections within our society.”
With a passion for connecting people and promoting Indian culture, Nadeem started organising events and activities that celebrate heritage and address the unique needs of the diaspora community.
Nadeem says his vision was to create a space where people could support one another, share their stories, and find a sense of belonging in a new land. “Little did I know it would grow into something so much bigger than myself,” he reflected.
Nadeem also extended his heartfelt thanks to Nathan Hagarty MP for his endorsement, noting, “I am deeply grateful to Nathan Hagarty MP for his continuous support. His faith in our mission has been an incredible source of encouragement. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive and compassionate community where everyone feels welcome.”
Transformative community initiatives
Nadeem’s vision for ‘Indians in Sydney’ is one that extends beyond social connection—it is about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families.
Several of the group’s key initiatives reflect this mission, including Winter Drive, Meal for Everyone Drive, Samvaad, Journey, Indians in Sydney Gala Event.
Nadeem’s leadership was instrumental in organising the recent Indians in Sydney Gala Event , which celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day that was a remarkable success, bringing together leaders, dignitaries, and community members to celebrate the achievements of the Indian community and reinforce the group’s ongoing mission to promote inclusivity and cultural exchange.
Looking ahead
With the NSW Government Community Service Award serving as a testament to his exceptional leadership, Nadeem is more determined than ever to continue his journey of service. The recognition highlights not only his personal achievements but also the tireless efforts of the ‘Indians in Sydney’ community to create positive change.
For those inspired by his work, Nadeem’s message is clear: “There is always more we can do, and together, we can make a lasting impact. Our journey is just beginning.”
Indians in Sydney is the largest community group for Indians in New South Wales, dedicated to fostering social connections, cultural pride, and charitable initiatives.
Through a wide range of programs, including meal drives, cultural events, and support services for migrants, the group serves as a vital resource for the not only to Indian diaspora in Australia but to Wider Australian Communities
source: http://www.amust.com.au / AMUST / Home> Community> Featured / by Imtiaz Khan / October 29th, 2024
