Latest news with #UnitedNationsSustainableDevelopmentGoals
Business Wire
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
500 Global Taps UN SDG Architect, Dr. Alaa Murabit, to Launch Firm's New Offerings in Sustainable Growth
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- 500 Global, one of the world's most active venture capital firms 1, today announced the appointment of Dr. Alaa Murabit as Managing Partner of Sustainable Growth. She will oversee the firm's Sustainable Growth practice created to accelerate economic resilience by mobilizing capital and capabilities across climate, health and human development in frontier and emerging markets. 'Too often, global capital reaches communities late — or not at all. We need to redesign financing systems that prioritize local innovation, share risk more equitably, and align investment with sustainable, inclusive outcomes." Share 500 Global's Sustainable Growth practice aims to create financing strategies, educational programs, advisory platforms, and catalytic initiatives that bring together public, private, and philanthropic capital to deliver sustainable economic results. A globally recognized expert in health, climate, sustainable development, and inclusive security, Dr. Alaa Murabit has shaped policies and financing that have impacted 193+ countries, played a pivotal role in the creation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and mobilized over $25 billion in financing for global health, sustainability, and security. Dr. Alaa Murabit led Phase Minus 1, was CEO of IMPACT2030, and, most recently, created two innovative financing platforms and directed a $300M/year global portfolio at the Gates Foundation, leading maternal and child health, climate and health security, and innovation. 'Economic development has always been an impact of the investments 500 Global has made, and we're delighted that Dr. Alaa Murabit has joined us to multiply that impact. Her appointment reinforces the growing global consensus that venture capital, when aligned with national priorities and de-risked through blended finance and public-private partnerships, can serve as a catalytic engine for inclusive growth and long-term development impact.' – Courtney Powell, COO & Managing Partner, 500 Global In an era marked by climate shocks, geopolitical volatility, and rising inequality, the need for resilient, inclusive economic systems has never been greater. Dr. Alaa Murabit's appointment signals a strategic shift in emerging markets: from fragmented, short-cycle investments to long-term value creation through blended finance, public-private alignment, and co-created national innovation infrastructure. Her leadership will expand 500 Global's ability to work with sovereign funds, governments, development finance institutions, and philanthropies to scale inclusive economic growth by de-risking investment and innovation. She will be based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. 500 Global has been committed to ecosystem development since 2010. Working closely with national allocators like Georgia's Information and Technology Agency and Sanabil Investments (a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund), the firm has embedded and developed its investment thesis by co-creating localized venture capital infrastructure to address local challenges and scale solutions globally. In 2023, they launched the Rise Report, which highlighted 30 rise economies - the 30 largest, fast growing economies outside of the US and China - inclusive of Mexico, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India, South Korea and more where 500 has had an ongoing presence. This report examined potential venture funding gaps; inviting allocators and policymakers to join forces toward the goal of accelerating global venture ecosystems that drive national development, economic growth and resilience. With Dr. Alaa Murabit's appointment, 500 Global is doubling down, replacing fragmented development efforts with scalable public-private finance strategies, and building the enabling environment for sustainable economic transformation. 'Too often, global capital reaches communities late — or not at all. We need to redesign financing systems that prioritize local innovation, share risk more equitably, and align investment with sustainable, inclusive outcomes. 500 Global is showing what's possible when we reimagine how capital serves both people and planet. I'm excited to lead and advance that vision globally.' – Dr. Alaa Murabit, Managing Partner, Sustainable Growth, 500 Global About 500 Global 500 Global is a multi-stage venture capital firm with $2.1B in assets under management 2 that invests in founders building fast-growing technology companies. We focus on markets where technology, innovation, and capital can unlock long-term value and drive economic growth and development. We work closely with key stakeholders and advise governments on how best to support entrepreneurial ecosystems and economic development in emerging markets. 500 Global has backed over 5,000 founders representing more than 3,000 companies operating in 80+ countries. We have invested in more than 35+ companies valued at over $1 billion and 150+ companies valued at over $100 million (including private, public, and exited companies) 3. THE CONTENT IN THIS PRESS RELEASE IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATIONAL OR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. 500 GLOBAL MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS AS TO THE ACCURACY OR INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND WHILE 500 GLOBAL HAS TAKEN REASONABLE STEPS TO ENSURE THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS ACCURATE AND UP-TO-DATE, NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR ANY ERROR OR OMISSIONS. UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE, ANY PREDICTIONS, FORECASTS, CONCLUSIONS, VIEWS OR OPINIONS EXPRESSED REPRESENT THE CURRENT VIEW AND THINKING OF 500 GLOBAL WITH REGARD TO THE SUBJECT MATTER THEREIN BASED ON INTERNAL DATA AGGREGATED ACROSS ALL 500 GLOBAL FUNDS AS OF MARCH 31, 2025 AND/OR ANALYSIS WHICH HAS NOT BEEN INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED, AND WHICH IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD ANY OF THE CONTENT IN THIS PRESS RELEASE BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL, TAX OR INVESTMENT ADVICE FROM 500 GLOBAL OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES. 500 GLOBAL DOES NOT GUARANTEE ANY FUTURE RESULTS FOR ANY DECISIONS MADE BASED IN WHOLE OR IN PART ON THE CONTENT OR INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. ALL READERS OF THIS PRESS RELEASE SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR OWN COUNSEL, ACCOUNTANT OR OTHER PROFESSIONAL ADVISORS BEFORE TAKING ANY ACTION IN CONNECTION WITH THIS PRESS RELEASE. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD ANY INFORMATION OR CONTENT IN THIS PRESS RELEASE, BE CONSIDERED AS AN OFFER TO SELL OR SOLICITATION OF INTEREST TO PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES ADVISED BY 500 GLOBAL OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES OR REPRESENTATIVES. FURTHER, NO CONTENT OR INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE IS OR IS INTENDED AS AN OFFER TO PROVIDE ANY INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICE OR FINANCIAL ADVICE BY 500 GLOBAL. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD ANYTHING HEREIN BE CONSTRUED AS FUND MARKETING MATERIALS BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS CONSIDERING AN INVESTMENT INTO ANY 500 GLOBAL INVESTMENT FUND. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD ANY CONTENT BE INTERPRETED AS TESTIMONIALS OR ENDORSEMENT OF THE INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE OF ANY 500 GLOBAL FUND BY A PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR CONSIDERING AN INVESTMENT INTO ANY 500 GLOBAL FUND.
TimesLIVE
6 days ago
- General
- TimesLIVE
Women driving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Each year, this magazine offers a moment to pause, reflect and reimagine the future through the eyes and experiences of women. This year, we turn our attention to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ask: how should women play a part in reaching these global ambitions in ways that ensure consistent, deliberate action to deliver real, lasting change? The SDGs aim to address some of the world's most urgent challenges – poverty, inequality, education, climate action – but progress will remain patchy unless women are not only included, but also empowered to lead. Research and lived experience show that when women are active decision-makers and equal partners in policy, business and community, development outcomes improve. Yet, too often, women are invited to the table merely to fill a quota, not to shape the agenda. In South Africa, we have seen gains: more women in boardrooms, parliament, science and entrepreneurship. However, we must push beyond representation. True transformation demands that we value what women bring because of their difference, not despite it. It's encouraging to witness a growing wave of women defining success on their terms. This edition is filled with stories of leaders who prioritise empathy alongside efficiency, those who are swapping traditional corporate roles for running their own businesses that speak to their values and retirees stepping up instead of stepping back. This shift signals something powerful: a rejection of outdated expectations and a new confidence in womanhood itself that is multidimensional, self-assured and collaborative. What we need now is greater momentum. Collaboration across sectors, genders and generations. More women in leadership, yes, but also more inclusive systems that support them to thrive. We must build economies and policies that reflect the realities of women's lives, not just the metrics of progress. This edition of FM Women profiles South Africans who are not only making their mark, but also lifting others as they rise. Their stories are proof that applying a gender lens is not an add-on, but the lens through which a more equitable, sustainable world can be built. Let us continue to champion real change – not performative gestures, but purposeful action. Women aren't just part of the solution. We are the drivers of it. Lindi Botha, Editor
Hans India
17-07-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Turning Dialogue into Impact: IFERP Conferences Drive Tangible Progress on UN Sustainable Development Goals
The Institute for Educational Research and Publication (IFERP) is bridging the gap between academic research and real-world change through its global conference platform, empowering researchers, educators, and institutions to contribute meaningfully to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs). As a globally recognised academic association, IFERP remains committed to making education more accessible, inclusive, and impactful. 'Our goal is to elevate the quality of research education and ensure it reaches communities, transforming ideas into policies, partnerships, and innovations,' said Mr. Siddth Kumar Chhajer, MD & Founder, IFERP, Technoarete Group. Flagship Conferences Advancing Global Priorities In 2025, IFERP is hosting a series of international conferences designed to tackle key global challenges: 8th ICASETM (Aug 21–22, Jakarta, Indonesia): Advances in sustainability and applied sciences. (Aug 21–22, Jakarta, Indonesia): Advances in sustainability and applied sciences. 4th APCERSSH (Sept 25–26, Bangkok, Thailand): Shaping social science and educational reform. (Sept 25–26, Bangkok, Thailand): Shaping social science and educational reform. 7th ICMCER (Oct 24–25, Tokyo, Japan): Bridging multidisciplinary research and real-world relevance. (Oct 24–25, Tokyo, Japan): Bridging multidisciplinary research and real-world relevance. 48th WCASET (Nov 17–18, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia): Spotlighting transformative technologies for sustainable development. 2nd IMCMHS (Dec 18–19, Bangkok, Thailand): Driving healthcare research with a human impact. Each conference is aligned with core SDGs such as Quality Education (Goal 4), Gender Equality (Goal 5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (8), Industry Innovation (Goal 9), Climate Action (Goal 13), and Partnerships for the Goals (17). They offer participants opportunities to translate academic research into real-world applications that address today's most pressing issues. 'The quality of engagement at IFERP events reflects a strong commitment to academic Discipline and social impact,' stated Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Goh Wei Wei, Taylor's University, Malaysia. Measurable Outcomes and Global Reach Concrete results back IFERP's commitment to sustainable progress: Over 68,000 research publications aligned with SDG themes aligned with SDG themes 520+ institutional collaborations across universities, think tanks, and policy groups across universities, think tanks, and policy groups AI-powered tools like ResearchPedia and Academic Resume Builder are enhancing researcher productivity like and are enhancing researcher productivity A vibrant community of 1.3 lakh+ members from 162+ countries CPD-accredited conferences supporting lifelong learning and professional growth 'Through IFERP, I've been able to apply global sustainability research directly in my classroom and career,' said Jeanet E. Parreno, Assistant Professor, Philippine Christian University. A Culture of Collaboration
Borneo Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Mayor Walk 2025 to promote health, unity, green living in Kuching South this August
Wee (third right) joins the Mayor Walk 2025 sponsors and representatives in a group photo during the press conference. KUCHING (July 16): The upcoming Mayor Walk 2025 will continue to serve as a symbol of Kuching South City Council's (MBKS) commitment to building a healthier, greener, and more connected city, while aligning closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng. He said the annual event, now in its seventh year, strongly supports SDG Goal 3 which are Good Health and Well-being, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. 'Through this event, we are not just promoting exercise; we are promoting a lifestyle of balance, awareness, and connection with nature,' he told a press conference at the MBKS headquarters today. Wee noted that the Mayor Walk has grown significantly since its inception in 2017, evolving from a simple community walk into one of Kuching South's most recognised events in fostering public participation, unity, and appreciation for the outdoors. He said the walk also supports MBKS' vision of a Healthy and Smart City, where public spaces serve not just only as infrastructure, but also as platforms for interaction, wellness, and learning. 'This initiative is part of our Youth, Culture and Sports Programme and reflects our mission to foster healthy lifestyles and build a stronger community. 'We are especially proud that this event is intergenerational. It's common to see three generations walking together ― grandparents, parents, and children sharing laughs and creating memories,' he added. Beyond promoting physical activity, Wee said the event also serves as an informal learning platform, particularly for children to develop an appreciation for nature and local environmental conservation. He also took the opportunity to thank longstanding sponsors and partners who have contributed to the success of the event over the years. Among the key sponsors this year is Ibraco Berhad, which has supported the Mayor Walk since 2018 and is contributing RM80,000 worth of T-shirts for this year's participants. Other notable sponsors include 38 Yayasan Amal Cinta, Chagee, Lalamove, Revive, and Premier Echo Sound and Light System Sdn Bhd. Wee also expressed gratitude to the City Joggers Club (CJC), MBKS' event partner since the very first edition in 2017, for their unwavering support in planning, coordination, and mobilising volunteers. As for logistics, he reminded participants to register via the iPeople platform to redeem their T-shirts, with redemption to take place at the MBKS Lobby on Aug 15 starting from 9am to 4pm and on Aug 16 from 9am to 12pm. 'Participants are required to bring their iPeople registration QR code when collecting their T-shirts, and we look forward to seeing all of you. 'Let us continue walking forward together for a healthier, greener, and more connected Kuching South,' he said. Mayor Walk 2025 will take place on Aug 17, starting at 6am at the MBKS Boulevard. Kuching South Mayor Walk MBKS wee hong seng
Broadcast Pro
16-07-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Du becomes UAE's first telco with ISO 20400 for sustainable procurement
The certification underscores du's dedication to sustainable procurement, supporting the UAE's sustainability agenda and global efforts toward responsible sourcing. Du has become the first telecom operator in the UAE, and the second in the GCC, to be awarded the ISO 20400 Sustainable Procurement certification. The international standard represents excellence in sustainable procurement processes, spotlighting organisations that holistically incorporate environmental, social and economic factors into their supply chain and decision-making frameworks. du's achievement reflects the company's steps to systematise sustainable practices throughout its procurement and supplier relations in line with the UAE's ambitious Net Zero by 2050 initiative and the national focus on sustainability. With industry-leading practices, du aligns its procurement strategy with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, deploying state-of-the-art tools for supplier assessment and engendering continuous advancement in vendor sustainability performance. Adel AlRais, Head of Corporate Communication & Protocol at du, said: 'Achieving the ISO 20400 certification is a milestone in our journey for excellence in sustainability and our commitment to responsible operations that extend through our entire value chain. This accomplishment aligns impeccably with current market trends, integrating seamlessly with our broader goals and the UAEs national vision. We will continue to embed sustainability not just in operational endeavours but deep into du's comprehensive supply chain.' For customers, the certification reinforces the assurance that they are backed by a provider whose services are meticulously vetted for ethical and sustainable provenance. Suppliers receive clear directives and resources to elevate their sustainability standards in collaboration with du. Moreover, investors gain confidence in du's expertise at navigating ESG risks, which primes the company for sustainable value creation over the long term. Key to this achievement are du's strategic partners, including CRIF AG, Dubatt and Aramex PJSC, who each played a vital role in shaping a robust and responsible supply chain reflective of du's commitment to sustainability.
