Latest news with #Tolerance&Coexistence
Mid East Info
26-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Eureka! GCC 4th Edition Announces Competition Lineup: 30 Semi-Finalists to Shape the Future of Entrepreneurship
Eureka! GCC 4th Edition Announces Competition Lineup: 30 Semi-Finalists to Shape the Future of Entrepreneurship 300+ startup registrations lead to selection of Top 30 semi-finalists in 4th edition of Eureka! GCC • Finalists to compete for prizes worth $100,000 at Grand Finale, 28-29 May 2025, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Dubai 26th May 2025, Dubai (UAE) – Eureka! GCC , Asia's leading business model competition, returns to Dubai this year with a bigger platform and broader ambitions to champion the Gulf's most promising startup ventures. Now in its 4th edition, Eureka! GCC is being held under the patronage and in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence, and with the attendance of H.E. Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, further underscoring the platform's regional and diplomatic significance. Since its inaugural edition, Eureka! GCC has evolved steadily into a transformative force for early-stage businesses, fostering entrepreneurial growth and community-driven innovation across the region. The competition has drawn over 300 registrations from across the GCC and beyond, reflecting the region's rising entrepreneurial momentum. After a rigorous evaluation process, the Eureka! GCC team has shortlisted the Top 30 semi-finalists, spanning sectors from health-tech and fintech to sustainability, AI, and education technology. Standout ventures include Nema AI, developing AI-driven healthcare diagnostics; Payvista, offering next-generation fintech solutions for underserved markets; and Instawrap Technical Services, creating sustainable alternatives to traditional packaging. Participants this year represent a truly global mix, with startups from the GCC; UAE, KSA, Oman and from international markets such as India, Jordan, Turkey, the UK, and Pakistan. The semi-finalists receive an intensive Entrepreneurship Program, featuring hands-on workshops, speaker sessions led by industry leaders, and one-on-one mentorship. They also benefit from tailored guidance to sharpen their strategies and pitches ahead of the final stages. At the Elevator Pitch round in Dubai, the 30 semi-finalists present their ideas live before an audience of mentors and investors. The Top 10 finalists advance to the final phase of the competition, pitching their refined business models to a distinguished panel of jury members. The Grand Winners, including First Place, Second Place, and the Startup Nominee Award, will be announced during the Grand Finale's Gala Dinner, with a total prize pool of USD 100,000. Among the notable speakers engaged in this year's program are Trey Goede, GCC Start Up Investor/Mentor; Deepak Ahuja, CEO & Co-founder of iACCEL GBI; and Rajesh Garg, CFO of Landmark Group — all offering invaluable insights on scaling startups, fundraising strategies, and navigating the Gulf's evolving business landscape. GII's associate partners for Eureka! GCC – iACCEL GBI, Crowe UAE, Headstart, Its Her Way, Encubay, LaunchShe, Startup Middle East, Diwan Hub, Bits Pilani and Ecobee – have also been instrumental in providing mentorship, training, and investment opportunities that are shaping the region's next generation of entrepreneurs. Commenting on the 4th edition, Pankaj Gupta, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of GII and Co-Founder of Eureka! GCC, said: 'At GII, we believe that entrepreneurship is the driving force shaping the Gulf's economic and social future. Each year, we are humbled by the boldness, ingenuity, and resilience we see among our young entrepreneurs. Their ventures are solutions to real-world challenges and catalysts for lasting impact. We are proud to stand behind this movement, alongside the visionary support of Dubai's leadership and our partners across the region.' As Eureka! GCC 4th edition moves toward its grand finale, the spotlight remains firmly on the ideas and individuals reshaping the Arabian Gulf's entrepreneurial future. With an expanded focus on emerging sectors and deeper mentorship engagement, this year's competition is building a dynamic, innovation-driven ecosystem across the region, encouraged by Dubai's benevolent business-led environment. -end- About Eureka! GCC Eureka! was founded by the Entrepreneurship Cell of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, a leading worldwide technology body, and powered by GII, a leading UAE-based Shari'ah-compliant global alternative investment company with over US$3.5 billion of assets under management. Eureka! GCC aims to enable a low-risk environment to boost entrepreneurship, bridging the gap between ideas and enterprise to facilitate a seamless transition between the two. About GII GII is a leading Shari'ah-compliant global alternative investment company. With over $3.5 billion of assets under management, GII seeks to achieve superior, sustainable returns and long-term value for its investors and shareholders by investing in curated growth and income-generating opportunities. GII believes in 'innovation with a purpose' and works to build the sustainability of the ecosystem in which it operates. Under the leadership of a committed management team, supported by prominent shareholders from the Arabian Gulf region, GII deploys private capital across diverse alternative asset classes, including real estate, private equity, and venture capital. GII's client network includes UHNWIs, family offices, banks, institutions, and sovereign wealth funds in the GCC and Asia. GII is headquartered in the United Arab Emirates. Its UAE entities are regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). -end-
Khaleej Times
18-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
IOD set to host yet another Global Convention in Dubai; Tristar joins as title partner
'Boards in a rapidly changing world' is the theme of the Tristar- IOD - 2025 UAE Global Convention on leadership for business excellence and innovation hosted by Institute of Directors (India). In its 12th consecutive year in Dubai, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence, will inaugurate this year's convention. Over the years, this convention has emerged as a strong bridge between India and the UAE, strengthening relationships and promoting economic growth and sustainable development. Over 500 distinguished business leaders, industry experts, and government officials from across the globe are expected to join to discuss critical boardroom and global issues at this landmark event in Dubai. Board experts from India, UAE and various geographies will be joining together to debate and deliberate on various board issues and topical interests. In a world increasingly shaped by volatility and complexity, the future of corporate governance hinges on the choices the boards make today. From the explosive growth of artificial intelligence to the climate crisis and a shifting geopolitical landscape, the global business environment is undergoing a seismic transformation. In such a setting, boardrooms must move beyond traditional oversight and step boldly into the role of strategic enablers, driving resilience, innovation, and long-term value. This year's theme underscores a critical need: redefining board strategies to stay ahead of the curve. It calls on corporate leaders to rethink governance models, adopt agile decision-making practices, and embed purpose at the core of their business strategies. The focus will be on how boards can not only manage risk but seize opportunity-while staying aligned with broader goals of equity, climate resilience, and social good. Held under the distinguished patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence, government of the UAE, the convention reflects the strength of the India-UAE partnership-a bond rooted in shared aspirations for economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development. Adding to the significance, the Ministry of Economy, government of UAE joins as the official partner, while the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai lend their valued support. This trilateral collaboration amplifies the convention's relevance as a bridge between east and west, symbolising a deeper synergy between nations, institutions, and industries. The convention will be presided over by Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE and India's Permanent Representative to IRENA. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai, will grace the event as guest of honour. These eminent diplomats will join global business leaders, jurists, economists, and innovators to offer perspectives on how governance must evolve in a fast-changing world. Setting the tone for the convention will be visionary keynote insights from Eugene Mayne, founder & group CEO Tristar Group-a pioneer in responsible logistics and sustainability and Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India, who is steering the airline's transformative growth. Their leadership journeys exemplify the courage and clarity needed in today's corporate ecosystem. Strategic insights will also be shared by Abdulla Ahmed Al Saleh, undersecretary Ministry of Economy, UAE, Justice Uday U. Lalit, chairman, IOD and former Chief Justice of India, Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, vice-chairman, IOD, and Dr Tayeb Kamali, chairman, IOD UAE & Gulf. Together, they will explore the role of governance in unlocking innovation, navigating legal and regulatory landscapes, and enhancing stakeholder trust. Throughout the four-day convention, participants will engage in an array of plenary sessions, boardroom roundtables, policy dialogues, and exclusive business networking meets. Topics will span the evolving role of boards in ESG integration, risk governance, digital transformation, ethical Al adoption, cybersecurity, cross-border investments, and leadership diversity The convention will also feature case studies, panel discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions that draw upon real-world examples and sectoral insights from manufacturing to energy, tech, finance, and public enterprises. A major highlight of the convention is the presentation of the famed Golden Peacock Awards set for April 22. These prestigious accolades-regarded globally as a benchmark of excellence-will honour trailblazing achievements in Business Excellence, Innovation, Quality, and Training. This year, recognised organisations include Tata Motors, Indian Oil, Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd. and Protean eGov Technologies Limited. among others. These champions embody the spirit of excellence, resilience, and transformation. The Institute of Directors (IOD), India, has been at the forefront of shaping corporate governance for over 35 years, with a steadfast commitment to boardroom excellence, ethical leadership, and sustainable development. With an expanding global footprint, IOD serves as a trusted advisor to companies, governments, and institutions, enabling them to build better boards and future-ready organisations.
Zawya
09-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
The Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 opens with the Arab world premiere of New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Under the honorary founding patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Festival returns in its 22nd edition under the inspiring theme 'Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,' in alignment with the UAE's 'Year of Community.' This year, the Festival celebrates over 50 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between the UAE and its country of honour, Japan, with an extraordinary inaugural concert. The Festival's Inaugural Concert Organised by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and founded by Her Excellency Huda Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF and Abu Dhabi Festival, this year's Festival opened on 7 February 2025 in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence and Patron of ADMAF, Her Excellency Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi, UAE Minister of State and His Excellency Ken Okaniwa, Ambassador of Japan to the UAE, at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. The Festival's inaugural concert commenced with its first Abu Dhabi Festival Award ceremony of the year, presented in association with Chopard, honouring the artistic and cultural contributions of Japan's Commissioner for Cultural Affairs, Mr. Shunichi Tokura and 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate, Riken Yamamoto – who is also recognised one of the most influential architects in the world. During a special award ceremony, this prestigious honour was bestowed upon its esteemed recipients by H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence and ADMAF Patron, and H.E. Huda Ibrahim Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF and Abu Dhabi Festival. Abu Dhabi Festival's inaugural concert continued to build on its legacy of firsts with the historic performance of the renowned New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra for the first time in the Arab world, led by legendary conductor Yutaka Sado, alongside star tenor Jonathan Tetelman and celebrated pianist, Kyohei Sorita on 7 & 8 February 2025. These two historic performances set the stage for the exceptional lineup of talent from around the world that will grace the Festival over the next two months. Attendees were captivated by a stunning repertoire on the two opening nights, including Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 with Kyohei Sorita at the piano, Tchaikovsky's iconic Piano Concerto no. 1 and Symphony No. 5, and Puccini's 'What a Beautiful Woman' from the opera Manon Lescaut, brought to life by the magnificent voice of internationally acclaimed tenor Jonathan Tetelman, among other remarkable pieces. Her Excellency Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi, UAE Minister of State, said: 'The theme of this year's Festival, 'Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,' embodies the cultural diversity of our society, which includes more than two hundred nationalities that share values of human fraternity, solidarity, harmony, and familiarity, that characterise UAE society, and work together, hand in hand, for the country's renaissance and sustainable development.' H.E. continued:"With the UAE declaring this year as the 'Year of Community,' embodying the leadership's vision towards building a cohesive and prosperous society, by strengthening ties within families and society, and developing relations between generations, the 22nd edition of Abu Dhabi Festival contributes to creating comprehensive creative spaces that consolidate the values of cooperation, belonging and common global human experiences, especially those related to the dialogue of civilisations and the preservation of cultural heritage." 'The Festival also celebrates more than 50 years of friendship and mutual understanding between the UAE and its country of honour, Japan, showcasing an appreciation for the diversity and richness of Japanese culture through its exceptional lineup of artists, musicians, and creators," H.E. concludes. Her Excellency Huda Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Abu Dhabi Festival, said: 'The Abu Dhabi Festival returns for its 22nd edition under the inspiring theme 'Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,' uniting people and cultures through music and the arts, in alignment with the United Arab Emirates' 'Year of Community'. This year, the Festival also celebrates 50 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between the UAE and its country of honour, Japan.' H.E. continued: 'The Festival's inaugural concert celebrates this special friendship and artistic excellence at all levels. From the inaugural concert, featuring the Arab World premiere of the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, led by the legendary Yutaka Sado, with star tenor Jonathan Tetelman, to the first two recipients of this year's Abu Dhabi Festival Award—two exceptional visionaries: Mr. Shunichi Tokura, one of today's leading composers and Japan's Commissioner for Cultural Affairs, whose work unites hearts, minds, and cultures; and the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate, Riken Yamamoto, an architect who reshapes the way we inhabit the world." 'With masterpieces by Puccini, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, Dvořák, and Akutagawa, performed by the orchestra alongside ten musicians from the Abu Dhabi Youth Orchestra, the Festival renews its commitment to building bridges and empowering young Emirati musicians to strengthen the UAE's global presence. Throughout this year's Festival, we will continue to present the works of the world's leading composers while also showcasing an exceptional lineup of talent in celebration of our country of honour, highlighting the beauty, diversity, history, and richness of this extraordinary culture,' H.E. concludes. Empowering the Next Generation: Educational Initiatives at Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 As part of the ADMAF's ongoing commitment to investing in the potential of its nation's youth, Japanese Architect and 2025 Abu Dhabi Festival Award recipient, Mr. Riken Yamamoto, also participated in a special talk presented by the Abu Dhabi Festival as part of Riwaq Al Fikr - ADMAF Talks, in collaboration with the NYU Abu Dhabi Institute, on 6 February 2025. The talk, titled 'Crafting Tomorrow: Riken Yamamoto's Architectural Journey,' explored the transformative power of architecture in shaping communities. From 6-8 February 2025, Abu Dhabi Festival hosted education initiatives featuring the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra. Students - from public and private schools - attended Festival in Focus, an exclusive open rehearsal with the orchestra, while musicians visited the Japanese School Abu Dhabi for a Back to School event with Maestro Yutaka Sado and Kyohei Sorita. A student from ADMAF's Young Media Leaders programme – which offers young individuals hands-on experience in the local, regional, and global media industries – was given the invaluable opportunity to interview star tenor, Jonathan Tetelman, as part of Artists' Studio initiative before the Festival's inaugural concert. The initiatives concluded with a two Masterclasses as part of the creative training programme by Abu Dhabi Festival, where four students had the chance to play alongside and learn from the orchestra's cellist Samuel Ericsson and violinist Sohei Birmann. Additionally, on 7 February, the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra performed an Encore at Emirates Palace, playing Hana (Flowers) by Rentaro Haki alongside ten student musicians from the Abu Dhabi Youth Orchestra. The Festival continues to unfold with more extraordinary performances, solidifying the Festival's reputation as a global centre for cultural excellence and diversity. For the full Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 programme and to learn more, visit About Abu Dhabi Festival: Since its inception in 2004, Abu Dhabi Festival has grown into one of the world's leading cultural platforms, showcasing over 600 performances, 120 world premieres, and 100 commissioned works, spanning more than 30 countries. As a flagship initiative of Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), the Festival reflects Abu Dhabi's position as a global capital of culture, fostering creative exchange and celebrating the values of Bilad Al Khayr—the Land of Blessings, inspired by the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed. Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who granted the Festival his patronage from 2007 to 2011, and its founding honorary patron His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Festival bridges nations and cultures, serving as a hub for dialogue, artistic innovation, and cultural diplomacy. Rooted in the UAE's commitment to tolerance, respect, and peace, the Festival champions artistic excellence and positions Abu Dhabi as a global nexus for creativity. With partnerships spanning continents and programming that continues to break boundaries, it unites diverse audiences and inspires a shared journey of discovery, transforming lives through the power of the arts. For more information, please visit About Abu Dhabi Festival Award In partnership with Chopard, the award reflects the Abu Dhabi Festival's unwavering commitment to honouring prominent personalities whose work contributes to cultural exchange and the advancement of the global art scene, including Count Jean-Pierre de Lonoy, star ballet performer Sylvie Guillem, mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, maestro Riccardo Muti, jazz legend Wynton Marsalis, international tenor Plácido Domingo, musician Gustavo Dudamel, late famous American music producer and trumpeter Quincy Jones, composer and great maestro Dr. Walid Gholmieh, Arab artist Mohammed Abdu, poet Ousha bint Khalifa Al-Suwaidi, writer and thinker Amin Maalouf, and many others. For more information, please visit About the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF): Founded in 1996, ADMAF is one of the first cultural organisations in the Arabian Gulf. Pioneering new artistic practices, it seeks to deepen global cross-cultural dialogue and inspire a renewed interest in the creativity of the UAE and Arab world. Often in partnership with leading national and international institutions, it delivers multidisciplinary initiatives for people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities through the Abu Dhabi Festival, year-round youth platforms and community programmes. For more information, please visit ADMAF website at: Chopard – the Artisan of Emotions since 1860 Since its founding in 1860, Chopard has perpetuated a heritage of artisanal skills and traditional crafts by shaping contemporary creations synonymous with emotions. Guided by a resolutely positive vision of life, the Maison celebrates the precious moments of accomplished men and women around the world for whom watches and jewellery are a perpetual extension of their own joie de vivre. In line with its vision, Chopard acts through the prism of three central elements: craftsmanship, ensured by the work of passionate Artisans who are experts in their respective fields; abundant and generous creativity, that enables each and every individual to find the precious objects most attuned to their own nature; and finally, ethics. Strongly involved in the strategic choices of the Maison, the Scheufele family believes that grand contemporary luxury must necessarily be ethical and responsible. It was for this reason that in 2013 Caroline and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, co-presidents, launched the Journey to Sustainable Luxury, leading in 2018 to an announcement of the Maison to commit to use 100% ethical gold in producing all its watches and jewellery. Today, the family Maison employs more than 2,000 people worldwide. It is independent and highly vertically integrated, controlling the entire process from design to distribution through 15 subsidiaries, 1,200 points of sale and more than 160 dedicated boutiques. Over 50 different crafts are practised in three manufacturing sites with a strong emphasis on in-house training and transmission. Chopard's expertise in Fine Watchmaking is acknowledged in the L.U.C collection, a line of exceptional timepieces crafted for contemporary gentlemen. The company is highly recognized for Haute Joaillerie creations such as its Red Carpet Collection, Green Carpet Collection and the exceptional Garden of Kalahari Collection. Chopard has also built its reputation on iconic collections of watch and jewellery like 'Happy Diamonds', 'Happy Sport' and 'Mille Miglia'. Nurtured by the emotions of the Scheufele family members who have led, and continue to lead Chopard, the Maison has been a faithful partner to the Cannes Film Festival since 1998 as well as classic racing events, such as the Mille Miglia in Italy and the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique. Chopard is also Porsche Motorsport's official timing partner. For press inquiries Weber Shandwick MENAT Kareem Zaki Senior Associate KZaki@
