Latest news with #Hamoud
Hamilton Spectator
22-07-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Program unleashes entrepreneurial spirit among young Sudburians
Summer Company marks more than two decades of nurturing Fatmeh (Christabell) Hamoud was born in Sierra Leone and has lived all over the world, including the Bahamas, Lebanon and Cuba. But it's in Sudbury that the international student from Laurentian University is setting up a business. Fatmeh (Christabell) Hamoud is one of two international students the Summer Company is supporting this year. 'My Summer Company project? I help improve your core and overall fitness. I am a personal trainer,' Hamoud said in an interview. At 24, she has had the idea for some years. The injection of financing from Sudbury's Summer Company program helps get her idea off the ground. Her fitness and nutrition app delivers personalized coaching to help users achieve their health goals. 'Our app offers tailored workout plans and dietary advice,' Hamoud. 'I am building a website and working on being consistent with doing posts and with that, advertising the business better.' To learn more, go to Instagram and find transformative_strength. Hamoud is one of more than a dozen young entrepreneurs benefitting from the Summer Company program. The program provides training, mentorship and start-up grants of up to $3,000 to help students turn their ideas into viable summer businesses. Participants developed business plans, including financial projections and budgeting, to assess the feasibility of their ideas. Throughout the summer, they will continue working with the Regional Business Centre team to build their knowledge in key areas, such as marketing, sales strategies and financial management. Josée Pharand, the coordinator of the Regional Business Centre, is proud of the program. 'Summer Company has been around for over 20 years,' Pharand said. 'I've been helping to deliver the program for 16 years. We are definitely growing entrepreneurs. It is one of my favourite projects. This year, we are doing a launch event today in July. 'We typically have a launch and a closing event. Doing it now helps them gain some visibility and maybe attract new customers. This is our largest group ever.' Pharand says she loves working with students. 'They have such energy. They come away from the program with not just skills but confidence. Coaching and guidance are essential in business.' Gisele Roberts, director of Research and Innovation at Laurentian University, heard some applicants might not fit the program's parameters. 'We are sponsoring the two international students,' Roberts said, including Hamoud. 'They are not normally eligible for the program, but I had funds that could be allocated.' With this, the students have access to all the services the Regional Business Centre provides. Roberts confirmed an intent for the future. 'I will do it again next year and hope to continue for years. Some of this comes from a donation by Craig Fowler, who is now the VP of Algoma University. 'International students are part of his portfolio. He was delighted to know what we were doing. We want to support international students. They are incredibly entrepreneurial and bring new perspectives and fresh ideas … not just diversity.' Carter Benson graduated from Lo-Ellen Secondary School and then went to Western University in London for three years. 'I studied actuarial science, and have come back to Laurentian for my final year in business administration,' Benson said. 'Sudbury is home. I think I can grow the business, Anchora Partners, here. 'I applied in March and we started in June. The idea has been bubbling in my head for some years. I am a boutique consultant helping with business stability and restructuring. I believe there is a strong potential to make money at this. This is not a one-off summer job.' Mayor Paul Lefebvre was on hand to present certificates to the young businesspeople. 'We want to see this happen here. We want to encourage this. I am an entrepreneur and always have been. This is close to my heart. There are so many opportunities here in Sudbury.' To the students, he lauded their 'willingness to take risks and devote a summer to an idea. You've chosen to step outside your comfort zone.' Other Summer Program businesses include: - Oluwanifemi Ogunleye's Desserts by Nifemi (use this to find her on Instagram), which serves up delicious waffles and sweet treats from a vibrant summer stand. Her treats are made with high-quality ingredients. - EcoSafe Cleaning Services by Maryam Mboutne Pemi delivers eco-friendly residential cleaning solutions with a focus on safety and sustainability. She uses non-toxic products to ensure a healthy home environment. - Creating high-quality embroidered T-shirts for small businesses that want to stand out is Megan Martin's creative EmbroiderTees. On Instagram: embroidertees. - On Facebook, find Grass & Go. Bryce Broglio is offering professional landscaping and lawn care services to keep your outdoor spaces pristine all summer long. His objective is to ensure your lawn looks its best throughout the season. On Instagram: grass_and_go. - Crafting adorable, custom crochet animals that bring joy to all ages, Khadija Bettah has Khadija's Yarnimals. On Instagram: - Dog walking solutions and pet sitting can be found at LC's Leash & Lounge Services. Lillith Chiasson has a presence on Facebook and on Instagram at lcsleashlounge. - A local beekeeping venture producing high-quality, sustainably harvested honey is Elias Bettah's The Buzzing Hives. - Mercy Clicks is Oluwasemilore Ogunleye's venture. He captures life's special moments with professional photography services. Try Instagram: mercy_clicks. - Mimi MadeIt Crochet and Jewellery by Hammirah Eletu creates unique, handmade crochet clothing and jewelry that blends style with craftsmanship. Instagram: mimiimadeit. - Aeizy is Mohammad Aazeer Mohammad Thahir's business. T-shirts feature unique designs inspired by popular anime. There is a website: , and Instagram: aeizyca - Transforming discarded materials into stunning upcycled jewelry is about creativity and environmental consciousness, says Oluwanifemi Solarin. Instagram: resurrart. - RK's Contracting provides top-tier power washing and window cleaning to make homes and businesses shine. 'Our services ensure your property looks its best,' Ryder Kirby says. Instagram: rkscontractingsudbury. - Stems by T is Tamyra Matshinyatsimbi's custom floral bouquets for weddings, parties and special moments. 'Crafted with care and made to fit any budget, our stylish arrangements bring a personal touch to your celebration without breaking the bank.' Instagram: stems_by_t. - Offering engaging and effective math tutoring for kids and teens from Cornerstone Learning is Zhi Xing Si Tuto's project to build confidence and skills. Check out Facebook: Cornerstone Learning. The Local Journalism Initiative is made possible through funding from the federal government. Bluesky: @ X: @SudburyStar Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Arab Times
21-07-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait seeks to strengthen civil aviation ties with Japan
KUWAIT CITY, July 21: Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Chairman of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), expressed Kuwait's strong interest in deepening cooperation with Japan across various sectors of civil aviation, including training, aviation safety and security, and airport infrastructure development. The remarks came during Sheikh Hamoud's meeting with the Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Kenichiro Mukai, as part of ongoing efforts to bolster bilateral ties between the two countries. According to a DGCA press statement, the meeting addressed key areas of joint cooperation and opportunities to benefit from Japan's extensive experience and advanced technologies in the aviation industry. Sheikh Hamoud highlighted the long-standing and friendly relations between Kuwait and Japan, emphasizing Japan's leadership in aviation technology and its potential contribution to Kuwait's civil aviation development. In response, Ambassador Mukai expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and reaffirmed Japan's commitment to strengthening collaboration with Kuwait in the aviation sector, underscoring shared interests in innovation, safety, and sustainable growth.
Yemen Online
04-07-2025
- Climate
- Yemen Online
Drought Threatens Agriculture and Deepens Food Crisis in Yemen
Sana'a – Yemen is facing an escalating food crisis as prolonged drought conditions and erratic climate patterns devastate the country's already fragile agricultural sector. With over 17 million people projected to experience food insecurity this year, the situation is rapidly deteriorating into one of the world's most severe humanitarian emergencies. Climate Shocks Compound Agricultural Collapse Yemen's agricultural sector, which once supported a significant portion of the population, has been crippled by years of conflict, economic instability, and now, climate change. The country is experiencing increasingly frequent droughts and destructive floods, which have eroded fertile soil, destroyed crops, and strained irrigation systems. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the dry season in early 2025 brought unusually low rainfall, particularly in the highlands where many staple crops like wheat, barley, and corn are grown. These conditions have severely disrupted land preparation and germination, threatening the upcoming harvest. Food Insecurity Reaches Critical Levels Yemen imports approximately 90% of its food, including most of its wheat. With global food prices fluctuating and domestic production plummeting, millions of Yemenis are unable to afford basic staples. The World Bank estimates that only 15–20% of Yemen's staple food needs are met by local agriculture. The crisis has forced many families to adopt extreme coping strategies, such as reducing meal sizes, selling personal belongings, or migrating to urban areas in search of work. Malnutrition is rampant, with over half of children under five suffering from chronic undernourishment. Humanitarian Response and Resilience Efforts In response, international organizations like the UNDP and World Bank have launched initiatives such as the Yemen Food Security Response and Resilience Project (FSRRP). These programs aim to rehabilitate irrigation infrastructure, promote climate-resilient farming practices, and provide temporary employment to rural communities. Local farmers, however, remain skeptical. 'The drought has destroyed our crops and killed our livestock,' said Hamoud, a 61-year-old farmer in Dhamar Governorate. 'Without water, we cannot survive. Our children are leaving the villages because there is no future here.' Call for Urgent Global Action Experts warn that without immediate and sustained international support, Yemen's food crisis will continue to spiral. The country's vulnerability to climate change, combined with ongoing conflict and economic collapse, makes it a flashpoint for humanitarian disaster. 'Yemen is a stark reminder of how climate change and conflict can intersect to create a perfect storm of suffering,' said a spokesperson from the World Food Programme. 'We must act now to prevent famine and build long-term resilience.'
Kuwait Times
17-06-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait tightens airport, cargo security as regional turmoil grows
KUWAIT: In response to escalating conflict in the Middle East, Kuwaiti officials convened an extraordinary meeting on Monday to review and reinforce security measures at Kuwait International Airport. The National Committee for Aviation Security and Facilitation, chaired by Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Chairman of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), gathered to assess the airport's readiness and ensure compliance with international aviation security standards. Speaking after the meeting, Sheikh Hamoud emphasized Kuwait's commitment to adhering to the International Civil Aviation Organization's protocols. 'These treaties form the legal framework governing aviation security worldwide,' he said. 'Compliance ensures the safety of passengers and crew, and reinforces Kuwait's standing as a trusted regional and international aviation hub.' KUWAIT: Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah chairs a meeting of the National Committee for Aviation Security and Facilitation. The session focused on implementing stringent security procedures and international treaty obligations designed to safeguard passengers, airport infrastructure and airline operations. Committee members also issued directives to guarantee strict adherence to agreed protocols, working in close coordination with multiple government agencies. They highlighted the importance of these protocols to several ongoing projects in Kuwait. Among those attending were Major General Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces; Dr Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health; Tareq Al-Asfour, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice; and senior officials from the Ministry of Interior, the Kuwait General Administration of Customs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Kuwait Fire Force. The meeting comes amid heightened regional instability following a series of airstrikes and escalating hostilities between Iran and the Zionist entity, raising concerns over security in Gulf airspace. Kuwaiti authorities have been stepping up precautionary measures to protect national interests and maintain uninterrupted aviation services. On Sunday evening, Fatima Al-Qallaf, Director General of the General Administration of Customs, conducted an inspection of the Airport Customs Department and the Air Cargo Customs Department. Her visit focused on monitoring workflows and reviewing procedures for receiving travelers and managing air cargo shipments. Al-Qallaf praised the staff's efforts in streamlining customs procedures with precision and efficiency, ensuring smooth cargo movement while maintaining strict security and regulatory compliance. She underscored the importance of continuous improvement and reaffirmed the department's commitment to effective oversight and full readiness at all customs entry points. — Agencies
Miami Herald
06-06-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Boss told cops to ‘keep an eye on' Muslim worker during prayer, MN suit says
A former employee of a Minnesota transportation agency said religious discrimination and retaliation forced him to leave his job, according to a lawsuit. The complaint — filed June 3 on behalf of Jihad Hamoud, a practicing Muslim — accuses regional planning agency Met Council of disciplining and humiliating him. It says that came after he reported faith-based discrimination, including one occasion where a supervisor directed police to 'keep an eye on' him while he prayed. A spokesperson for Met Council in Saint Paul told McClatchy News in a June 6 email they do not comment on ongoing litigation. 'With its power and resources, Met Council should be setting the standard for what an inclusive and respectful workplace looks like,' Naomi Martin, Hamoud's attorney, said in a June 5 news release. 'That starts with ensuring discrimination and retaliation have no place in its operations — especially by those in supervisory roles.' The lawsuit comes as the state of Minnesota continues to see increases in instances of anti-Muslim hate, attorneys said. Religious discrimination experiences According to the complaint, Hamoud was hired as a bus operator at the agency in 2010 and then transferred to facilities maintenance in 2019. He began recording his experiences after attorneys said he watched a Muslim co-worker experience retaliation by his supervisor. A supervisor made a negative comment directed at Muslim workers, blaming them for making a bathroom dirty during their prayer time, according to the complaint. When Hamoud told his supervisor Muslims are not allowed to pray in restrooms, he didn't apologize or correct his assumption, the complaint said. Hamoud also recorded multiple instances of discrimination with one janitor, according to the complaint. After reporting his experiences, Hamoud was placed on administrative leave, but the janitor continued working, attorneys said. Then, his managers told him to avoid the janitor when he got back to work, according to the complaint. But when Hamoud passed the janitor in a vehicle driven by another worker, his managers accused him of trying to intimidate the janitor, the complaint said. He was then told in a meeting with managers he would be placed on unpaid leave for five days, attorneys said. When he asked why he was being placed on leave, the managers did not say, according to the complaint. Hamoud was then escorted out of the office building by police, according to the complaint. 'This caused Hamoud great emotional distress, including feeling fearful, embarrassed, degraded, humiliated, disrespected, vilified, and discriminated against,' attorneys said. Despite ongoing emails to Met Council leadership after returning to work and continuing to experience religious discrimination, the agency didn't do anything to address it, according to the complaint. Hamoud resigned in May 2022 and filed a discrimination charge against the agency with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, according to the complaint. The commissioner concluded there was probable cause of retaliation and discrimination against Hamoud twice, in November and January, attorneys said. The complaint asks for monetary compensation for 'lost earnings and benefits, emotional distress, embarrassment, humiliation, and other compensatory damages.' Anti-Muslim discrimination in Minnesota For the past three years, Minnesota has led the country in reported attacks against mosques, according to a report by the Council on American-Islamic Relations. There were 15 recorded incidents targeting mosques in the state in 2024, three times higher than the next highest state for reported attacks, according to the report. Several acts of vandalism, intimidation and discrimination were also reported in the state, the report said.
