分类: society

  • How UAE woman who lost her leg, fingers to rare disease beat odds to become a doctor

    How UAE woman who lost her leg, fingers to rare disease beat odds to become a doctor

    Dr. Nouf Hassan Almaeeni, an Emirati woman, has defied extraordinary odds to become the first woman of determination in the UAE to achieve her dream of becoming a medical doctor. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, was deeply influenced by her father, a nurse, whose compassion and dedication inspired her from a young age. Growing up, Dr. Almaeeni often accompanied her father to his clinic, where she observed his care for patients, sparking her passion for medicine. Her dream took root in those formative years, setting her on a path to a groundbreaking career. Dr. Almaeeni’s journey was not without significant challenges. During her medical studies, she was diagnosed with a rare form of rheumatism, which led to the amputation of her leg and several fingers due to gangrene. Despite these setbacks, she persevered, advocating for her right to continue her education and successfully graduating. Today, she serves as the Business Operation Manager for the radiology vertical at SEHA, where she combines her medical expertise with leadership skills. Dr. Almaeeni credits her faith, the support of her family and friends, and the UAE’s leadership for her success. She is a passionate advocate for people of determination and envisions a future where they are fully included and empowered in all aspects of society. Her message to young Emirati women is one of empowerment and self-belief: ‘Follow your dreams, believe in your capabilities, and enjoy the journey.’

  • Dubai: How residents can avoid power cuts amid rainy season; 6 steps to take

    Dubai: How residents can avoid power cuts amid rainy season; 6 steps to take

    As the UAE braces for increased rainfall and extreme weather conditions, Dubai’s Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) has issued a crucial advisory for residents to safeguard their homes against potential power disruptions. The rainy season, which often brings unpredictable weather, necessitates proactive measures to ensure the safety and continuity of electricity and water supplies. Dewa emphasizes that while these steps can significantly reduce risks, unexpected power interruptions may still occur. Residents are encouraged to utilize Dewa’s smart response services for quick issue resolution. The advisory follows the record-breaking rains in April 2024, which caused widespread flooding and property damage across Dubai and neighboring emirates. Building owners and tenants who acted swiftly during the deluge managed to mitigate significant losses. In preparation for the upcoming rainy season, Dewa recommends six essential steps: securely closing all electrical cabinets, replacing damaged glass covers on meters, ensuring proper grounding of connections, sealing unused conduits on roofs, inspecting and protecting exposed connections with waterproof fixtures, and hiring skilled technicians for thorough inspections. These measures aim to prevent internal interruptions and enhance safety. Dewa also reminds residents to use its smart app, official website, or the Dubai Now app for self-diagnosis and swift issue resolution during emergencies. The authority’s proactive stance underscores the importance of preparedness in the face of extreme weather conditions.

  • Confucius Institute holds first poetry competition in Kenya

    Confucius Institute holds first poetry competition in Kenya

    The Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya, recently hosted its first-ever Poetry Recitation Competition, marking a significant cultural milestone. The event aimed to introduce Kenyan teachers and students to the rich heritage of Chinese poetry, blending classical and modern works. Thirteen finalists, selected from 27 preliminary candidates, represented prestigious institutions such as the United States International University, Discovery Chinese Cultural Training Center, and Kenyatta University. The competition showcased a diverse array of poetic expressions, highlighting the universal appeal of language and literature. Leonard Chacha, Director of the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University, emphasized that the event transcended mere competition, serving as a testament to the enduring power of poetry in fostering connection and inspiration in a noisy world. The initiative underscores the Confucius Institute’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and Kenya.

  • Indonesian police investigate ties between a mosque attack suspect and hate groups

    Indonesian police investigate ties between a mosque attack suspect and hate groups

    Indonesian authorities have uncovered explosive materials and writings from the residence of a 17-year-old suspect involved in a mosque attack at a Jakarta high school that left dozens injured. National Police Chief Listyo Sigit confirmed the findings on Saturday, stating that the suspect, who was among the 54 injured in Friday’s blast, is still recovering in the hospital. The attack occurred during a Friday sermon at SMAN 72, a state high school located within a navy residential complex in Jakarta’s Kelapa Gading neighborhood. Two loud explosions near the mosque’s loudspeaker caused panic among worshippers, with gray smoke filling the area. Police are investigating the suspect’s potential ties to hate groups, as they recovered a toy submachine gun inscribed with white supremacist slogans and names of neo-Nazis. While the attack has been ruled out as terrorism, reports suggest the suspect, a bullied grade 12 student, may have sought revenge through a suicide attack. Neighbors described him as an introverted teenager who spent most of his time indoors. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if others were involved.

  • Sharjah Ruler allocates Dh4.5 million for libraries to buy latest titles from SIBF

    Sharjah Ruler allocates Dh4.5 million for libraries to buy latest titles from SIBF

    In a significant move to bolster cultural and intellectual growth, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has allocated Dh4.5 million to public libraries. This funding is designated for the acquisition of the latest titles from publishers participating in the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The fair, themed ‘Between You and a Book,’ is a global cultural phenomenon, featuring 2,350 publishers and exhibitors from 118 countries, including 1,224 Arab and 1,126 international publishing houses. Over 250 writers, artists, and thinkers from 66 nations are set to present more than 1,200 cultural, intellectual, and artistic events. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, emphasized the Ruler’s vision of libraries as transformative institutions that bridge cultures and civilizations. This initiative underscores Sharjah’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based society and ensuring access to cutting-edge works for readers, researchers, and students across the UAE.

  • Powerful tornado in Brazil kills 6 people and injures more than 400 others

    Powerful tornado in Brazil kills 6 people and injures more than 400 others

    A devastating tornado tore through the southern Brazilian state of Parana on Friday night, claiming six lives and injuring over 400 individuals, according to state officials. The catastrophic event, with wind speeds exceeding 250 kph (155 mph), caused widespread destruction, leveling dozens of homes and prompting the government to declare a state of emergency in the affected area. Among the victims, five were adults, and the sixth was a 14-year-old girl. At least one person remains missing in the aftermath of the disaster. Emergency medical teams attended to 437 people, including children and pregnant women, with at least 10 requiring surgery and nine in critical condition. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences and solidarity with the victims through social media, emphasizing the nation’s support during this tragic time.

  • UAE: Parents ordered to pay Dh65,000 in 2 bullying cases as kids’ behaviours cause injury

    UAE: Parents ordered to pay Dh65,000 in 2 bullying cases as kids’ behaviours cause injury

    In a landmark ruling, the Al Ain Court for Civil, Commercial and Administrative Claims has ordered parents to pay a total of Dh65,000 in compensation for two separate cases of school bullying and violence involving their children. The court’s decision underscores the legal responsibility of parents for their children’s actions, even outside the home. In the first case, a father was fined Dh30,000 after his two sons repeatedly bullied, physically assaulted, and filmed a classmate, causing the victim severe emotional distress and mood swings. The minors had already been convicted in a related criminal case, which confirmed the physical and psychological harm inflicted. In the second case, several guardians were jointly ordered to pay Dh35,000 after their children attacked another student with sharp tools, leaving the victim with multiple injuries and emotional trauma. The court ruled that the guardians were negligent in supervising their children, leading to the incidents. The compensation covered both physical injuries and the emotional suffering endured by the victims. The court based its decisions on Article 313 of the Civil Transactions Law, which holds guardians legally accountable for damages caused by minors under their care if proper supervision is lacking. The rulings also emphasized the role of criminal case findings in establishing civil liability, including proof of wrongdoing, the extent of harm, and the appropriate compensation. By considering the severity of the harm and the victims’ recovery time, the court sent a clear message: bullying and violence by minors can result in not only criminal consequences for the children but also significant financial liabilities for their parents and guardians.

  • Dubai: Meet the expat combating the silent crisis of ‘male loneliness’ epidemic

    Dubai: Meet the expat combating the silent crisis of ‘male loneliness’ epidemic

    In the bustling city of Dubai, one man is tackling a silent crisis that affects millions globally: male loneliness. Steve Ashby, a 71-year-old expatriate and cancer survivor, has founded One Connection Away (OCA), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at helping men rebuild meaningful connections and improve their mental health. Operating from his modest home office in Barsha Heights, Steve’s journey began with his own battle against isolation, exacerbated by his aggressive stage 4 prostate cancer and brain seizures. Realizing the lack of accessible, practical support for men, he created OCA—a neuroscience-based micro-course designed to guide men back into visibility, community, and emotional vitality. Male loneliness, often hidden behind careers and productivity, has profound societal and economic impacts. Steve’s approach focuses on disrupting the ‘Loneliness Spiral,’ a six-stage descent into emotional numbness, through seven pillars: Stretch, Posture, Exercise, Connection, Reflection, Nutrition, and Sleep. OCA’s innovative tools, such as the ‘Opening Gambit’ and ‘Connection Hubs,’ encourage men to take small, sustainable steps toward reconnection. The initiative is gaining traction globally, with partnerships in the UAE and beyond, as businesses recognize the cost of employee disengagement. Steve’s vision extends to creating a global ecosystem, including the VITAL MEN’S ROOM, an online community supporting offline transformation, and a sister program focused on men’s health and longevity. His mantra, ‘You’re not alone. You’re just disconnected,’ resonates with men worldwide, offering hope and practical solutions to combat loneliness.

  • US: Cleaning woman shot dead by homeowner after arriving at wrong address

    US: Cleaning woman shot dead by homeowner after arriving at wrong address

    A tragic incident unfolded in Whitestown, Indiana, when Maria Florinda Rios Perez de Velasquez, a 32-year-old immigrant from Guatemala and mother of four, was fatally shot after mistakenly arriving at the wrong address. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning when Rios Perez and her husband, Mauricio Velazquez, approached a home they believed was their cleaning assignment. Unbeknownst to them, the residents inside had called 911, reporting a possible burglary. As the couple stood on the porch, a shot was fired through the door, striking Rios Perez in the head. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police confirmed that the couple had no intent to break in and were simply at the wrong address. The case has been referred to the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office, which must navigate Indiana’s ‘stand your ground’ law, allowing homeowners to use deadly force if they perceive a threat. The investigation remains ongoing, with no charges filed yet. This incident echoes similar cases nationwide where individuals have been mistakenly targeted due to misidentification.

  • Fire at Turkey perfume warehouse kills six

    Fire at Turkey perfume warehouse kills six

    A devastating fire at a perfume warehouse in Dilovasi, Kocaeli Province, north-western Turkey, has resulted in the tragic loss of six lives. The incident occurred at 09:05 local time on Saturday, as confirmed by the Kocaeli Province’s governorship. Governor Ilhami Aktas reported to CNN Turk that five individuals were hospitalized, with one in critical condition receiving specialized treatment in a burns unit. The fire, which has since been extinguished, was captured by Turkish media, showing firefighters battling intense flames. A witness recounted the harrowing experience to local TV, describing an explosion and the rapid spread of flames that engulfed the factory buildings, accompanied by cries for help. The cause of the fire in the Mimar Sinon neighbourhood remains under investigation, with both the Justice Ministry and the Labour Ministry initiating probes. Dilovasi, an industrial town located approximately 70 kilometres from Istanbul, is known for its numerous depots and factories.