Latest news with #WRF
Zawya
17-03-2025
- Science
- Zawya
Former Norwegian Capacity (NORCAP) Expert new Head of Burkina Faso National Met Agency
Mariam joined NORCAP in 2023 through the Climate Action Accelerator Programme. Under the guidance of her NORCAP mentor, Emmanuel Poan, she successfully validated and operationalised the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, adapting it to Burkina Faso's unique climate conditions. The team´s collective efforts significantly strengthened ANAM's technical capacity for climate services, improving forecast accuracy and making climate predictions more reliable and actionable for agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and water resource management. 'These improvements have helped decision-makers and communities make better-informed choices, enhancing resilience to climate risks,' says Mariam. Mariam's application to NORCAP's Climate Action Accelerator Programme stood out among the many applicants. Mariam highlights ANAM's debut at FESPACO 2025, Africa's largest film festival, as a significant milestone. By mobilising a team of meteorologists and communication experts at an interactive stand, Mariam and her colleagues showcased how weather impacts film production, logistics, and public safety. 'This initiative expanded ANAM's reach, demonstrating that meteorology is not just about forecasting but also a crucial tool for risk management, logistics, and creative industries,' says Mariam. Bridging the gap Through her work with NORCAP and ANAM, Mariam has been successful in bridging the gap between science and society. Mariam expresses her deep gratitude to the Burkinabè authorities for placing their trust in her and for their commitment to integrating gender inclusivity into climate governance. She reminds us that Burkina Faso, like many countries in the Sahel, faces some of the most comprehensive and complex impacts of climate change, and tackling these challenges requires diverse perspectives and strong leadership. 'Women, especially those in rural communities, experience climate change differently, often facing disproportionate risks while playing a crucial role in adaptation strategies. Yet, their voices remain underrepresented in climate science, meteorology, and decision-making spaces,' says Mariam. Thanks to their resilience and knowledge, women can be the most powerful agents of change. Empowering women to lead in climate action isn't just an opportunity; it's essential for building a sustainable future. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Norwegian Refugee Council.
Associated Press
04-03-2025
- General
- Associated Press
Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation Celebrates Women's History Month 2025: ‘Moving Forward Together'
The Foundation will fund a number of initiatives in celebration of Women's History LITTLE ROCK, AR, UNITED STATES, March 4, 2025 / / -- This March, the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation (WRF) proudly joins the nation in celebrating Women's History Month, honoring the countless contributions of women in shaping a more equitable and just society. This year's theme, Moving Forward Together, celebrates the power of collaboration and community as we work toward meaningful change. As we reflect on the progress made and the work that lies ahead, WRF remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering women, uplifting their leadership, and amplifying opportunities that enable women to thrive. Inspired by Winthrop Rockefeller's legacy of inclusion and innovation, the Foundation continues to invest in women-led initiatives that strengthen Arkansas's communities. 'Winthrop Rockefeller believed in the transformative power of women's leadership,' said Dr. Sherece West-Scantlebury, Chief Executive Officer of WRF. 'As we celebrate Women's History Month, we honor his legacy by highlighting the strengths, aspirations, and contributions of women across Arkansas. We are committed to ensuring that their voices and talents are at the center of solutions for a brighter future.' By building a network of care and connection, WRF is helping to shape an Arkansas where women's leadership is celebrated and supported as essential to our collective progress. This year's observance takes on added urgency as charitable nonprofit organizations face new challenges stemming from the January 22, 2025 Executive Orders issued by President Trump. These changes, which are likely to reduce funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, could have profound implications for women-focused programs and the communities they serve. 'At a time when systemic inequities persist, these policy shifts present a stark reminder of the need to protect and expand support for DEI efforts,' said West-Scantlebury. 'WRF is committed to standing alongside women leaders and ensuring that their critical work continues to receive the resources and recognition it deserves.' Despite these challenges, WRF sees an opportunity to double down on its mission, advancing women's leadership and empowering communities to thrive. This work is grounded in the belief that every woman's potential is a vital asset to the future of Arkansas. Throughout March, WRF will host and collaborate with our partners on initiatives that celebrate women's leadership and inspire collective action. As we move forward together through continued engagement with policymakers and leaders to protect funding and support for programs that uplift women and advance diversity and inclusion, we are building a future where equity and opportunity are accessible to all. WRF invites partners, allies, and communities across Arkansas to join us in celebrating Women's History Month. For more information on WRF's Women's History Month initiatives, visit About the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation The Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation relentlessly pursues equity for all Arkansans by investing in community-led solutions and advancing systemic change. Inspired by Governor Winthrop Rockefeller's visionary leadership, WRF remains dedicated to building a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Tashion Macon strut AGENCY +1 818-749-8786 email us here Legal Disclaimer:
The Guardian
31-01-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
What a racket: neighbours object to noisy padel playing at Hampshire sports club
Padel is widely considered the fastest growing sport in the world – but residents of an affluent Hampshire suburb are not playing ball. The upmarket Winchester Racquets and Fitness club has informed its members it expects to be served with a noise abatement notice following complaints from neighbours who live in the £1m homes in the surrounding area. Neighbours have been angered by the noise caused by 'aggressive hard-hitting shots' likened to gunfire as the ball hits glass panels and chainlink fences. Winchester Racquets and Fitness [WRF] dates back to 1910 and the club boasts three padel courts that members can enjoy the use of after paying a yearly membership of £161. The club said it had received communication from Winchester city council that it had concluded the din amounts to a 'noise issue'. In light of padel's increasing popularity, WRF announced last year that it wants to add more courts to its site. But the announcement prompted a backlash. Neighbours complained to the council and spoke out last month about noise levels. Peter and Liz Russell's home of 40 years is just 3.5 metres from two tennis courts. But Peter Russell, 75, said he would not tolerate the padel noise. 'I have said I would take it as far as the supreme court. Life would not be tolerable in this house,' he said. Russell said if the new courts are approved, it would cause the house's value to plummet and affect their ability to sell, as well as 'any sense of relaxation' they could have in their garden due to 'gunshot'-like sounds. 'Tennis has never caused this level of opposition,' he added. 'We can live with tennis – it's nothing like padel.' John Colley, 53, lives in a cul-de-sac of houses where several rear gardens back onto the club's padel courts. 'Padel is an easier [sport] to play, so different people are playing it and they are shouting a lot, occasionally using foul language. Sign up to First Edition Our morning email breaks down the key stories of the day, telling you what's happening and why it matters after newsletter promotion 'The actual sound from the padel racket is incredibly loud … notwithstanding all the shouting and swearing. It's constant, all day.' In a message to members, the club warned that padel may face new restrictions. '[A] Winchester council environmental officer has conducted a noise assessment over a period of a few weeks and concluded the noise of bat on ball constitutes a noise issue.' The message continued: 'WRF has not yet been served with a noise abatement order but we have been formally advised that notices will be served under Section 80 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 probably at the end of this month. 'We would then have six months or so in which to show intent to comply.' The club still intends to increase the number of padel courts while mitigating current noise levels.
