The world of cryptocurrency and blockchain has often been described as complex and volatile, yet for some, it feels like a profound calling. Ann Marie McQueen, a former accountant and CEO, shares her transformative journey from traditional finance to the enigmatic realm of crypto. Her initial enthusiasm for Bitcoin and blockchain technology was met with resistance, particularly from her late father, who found the concept of a new kind of money overwhelming. This experience, coupled with insights from a neuroscientist friend, taught her the importance of understanding generational differences in embracing innovation. McQueen’s fascination with crypto deepened as she encountered a crypto influencer from the Philippines who framed the experience as a ‘calling.’ This resonated deeply with her, as she found herself inexplicably drawn to the technical and seemingly impenetrable world of blockchain. Her journey led her to join a community of women investors in crypto, where she discovered that many shared her sense of purpose. McQueen reflects on her decisions, likening her crypto journey to other life-changing choices she has made, such as relocating to Abu Dhabi in 2008. She remains confident that her foray into crypto, driven by an almost spiritual compulsion, will prove to be a decision she won’t regret.
标签： Africa
非洲
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IIHL inducts Kamal Vachani to its board of directors
IndusInd International Holdings Limited (IIHL), a Mauritius-based financial services platform promoted by the Hinduja Family, has announced the induction of Kamal Vachani to its board of directors. This strategic move aims to bolster IIHL’s representation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region as the company accelerates its global expansion across various financial sectors. Vachani, a partner at Dubai’s Al Maya Group, brings extensive experience in the retail sector and strong ties to the GCC, aligning with IIHL’s vision to enhance its footprint in financial and para-banking services. Ashok P Hinduja, Chairman of IIHL, emphasized that Vachani’s expertise will ensure effective representation of the company’s GCC-based shareholders. IIHL has been actively pursuing strategic acquisitions to solidify its position in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) space. Notable recent acquisitions include the 100% stake in Reliance Capital Ltd. and its subsidiaries, a 60% stake in Invesco Asset Management Company’s India business, and the complete ownership of Bahamas-based Sterling Bank, now rebranded as IIHL Bank & Trust Ltd. These initiatives underscore IIHL’s ambition to become a global financial powerhouse.
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Dubai reinforces global leadership in exhibitions at landmark industry gathering
Dubai has reaffirmed its status as a global leader in the exhibitions and events sector during a landmark industry gathering that brought together key stakeholders from around the world. The event, attended by global organizers, government representatives, and industry innovators, showcased Dubai’s vision for the future of international exhibitions and its role in shaping the next decade of global trade, business networking, and sustainable growth.
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Plan to test Liberian schoolchildren for drugs blocked
Liberia’s Education Ministry has intervened to halt a contentious proposal for mandatory drug testing across all schools in the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), aimed to combat the escalating issue of drug abuse among students. Interim LDEA head Fitzgerald Biago argued that such measures would address the growing crisis, which President Joseph Boakai declared a national emergency last year. A recent EU-backed report revealed that one in five young Liberians engages in drug use, underscoring the severity of the problem. However, the Education Ministry expressed reservations, stating that it was unaware of the plan and emphasized the need for evidence-based decision-making. Assistant Minister Sona Sesay-Toure highlighted the potential negative consequences of drug testing, including privacy concerns, social stigma, and adverse effects on students’ academic performance. She stressed the importance of thorough research and case studies from other nations before implementing such measures. Sesay-Toure also noted the establishment of a multi-sectoral committee, led by the Health Ministry, to address drug and substance abuse. Additionally, she emphasized the role of strengthened school health clubs in reducing drug prevalence. The LDEA has undergone recent leadership changes, with Biago appointed as interim head following the dismissal of the previous leadership in August. The debate over drug testing in schools continues, balancing the urgency of tackling drug abuse with the need to protect students’ rights and well-being.
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Ace Frehley, Kiss’ original lead guitarist and founding member, dies at 74
Ace Frehley, the iconic lead guitarist and founding member of the legendary rock band Kiss, has died at the age of 74. His family confirmed his passing on Thursday, attributing it to complications from a recent fall at his home. Frehley’s representative, Lori Lousararian, shared the tragic news with Rolling Stone magazine. In a heartfelt statement, Frehley’s family expressed their profound grief, describing his loss as ‘of epic proportions’ and celebrating his enduring legacy. Bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley also paid tribute, calling Frehley an ‘essential and irreplaceable rock soldier’ who played a pivotal role in shaping Kiss’s groundbreaking history. Born in the Bronx on April 27, 1951, Frehley’s passion for music was ignited after attending concerts by The Who and Cream. He joined Kiss in the early 1970s, helping to define the band’s signature hard rock and glam rock style with his electrifying guitar riffs, theatrical stage presence, and iconic ‘Spaceman’ persona. Frehley remained with the band through its 1970s heyday and later rejoined for a reunion in the 1990s. As a solo artist, he achieved success with hits like ‘New York Groove.’ Kiss’s influence on rock music remains unparalleled, with 26 gold albums and 14 platinum records to their name. Frehley’s contributions to the band and the rock genre will forever be remembered.
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Dubai Basketball overpowers FC Barcelona in EuroLeague victory at Coca-Cola Arena
Dubai Basketball showcased a masterclass performance on Thursday night, defeating FC Barcelona 83:78 in a thrilling EuroLeague clash at the Coca-Cola Arena. From the opening tip-off, Jurica Golemac’s squad executed a disciplined game plan, focusing on controlling the paint and dictating the tempo. The frontcourt duo of Filip Petrušev and Mfiondu Kabengele set the tone early, combining for 13 of Dubai’s first 18 points and helping the team establish a commanding double-digit lead. Dubai’s offensive strategy emphasized efficiency over volume, with the team refraining from attempting a three-pointer until the closing minute of the first half, when McKinley Wright IV confidently sank one from distance. By then, Dubai had already built a solid foundation with 12 made shots inside the arc. The third quarter saw Petrušev dominate with 12 points, while Dwayne Bacon relentlessly attacked the rim, drawing contact and creating high-percentage opportunities. Despite Barcelona’s attempts to close the gap, Dubai maintained composure and extended their lead with timely three-pointers from Davis Bertans and Klemen Prepelič. In the final moments, Bacon and Petrušev sealed the victory with crucial baskets. Petrušev led all scorers with 23 points, while Bacon added 20, and Kabengele contributed a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Dubai’s next matchup is scheduled for Sunday, 19 October, against ABA League newcomers U-BT Cluj at the Coca-Cola Arena. Tickets are available on the venue’s official website.
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Chad restores ties with wildlife charity linked to Prince Harry
In a significant turn of events, African Parks, a conservation organization with ties to Prince Harry, has rekindled its partnership with the government of Chad, just days after the central African nation severed ties with the group. The initial termination on October 6 was prompted by allegations of African Parks’ failure to effectively combat poaching and accusations of an arrogant and uncooperative attitude. However, in a joint statement released on Friday, both parties announced the resumption of their collaboration, emphasizing a renewed spirit of dialogue and cooperation. The agreement reinstates African Parks’ management of Zakouma National Park and the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, both of which the organization had overseen for 15 years prior to the recent fallout. Under the new terms, African Parks will continue to finance and co-manage these protected areas while pursuing future conservation projects. Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks, hailed the reinstatement as a ‘stable foundation’ for safeguarding Chad’s natural and cultural heritage, alongside the communities that depend on them. The reconciliation follows a challenging period marked by intense negotiations and mutual efforts to address past grievances. Earlier this year, African Parks faced criticism for alleged abuses by its employees in a park in the Republic of Congo, though the organization declined to release an independent report on the matter. Founded in 2000, African Parks remains committed to protecting Africa’s national parks and advancing global conservation efforts.
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Fighting in Sudan’s besieged city triples number of displaced people in a nearby town: UN official
The ongoing conflict in Sudan’s North Darfur region has reached a critical juncture, with the embattled capital of el-Fasher becoming a focal point of violence. According to Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General for Operations at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the fighting has tripled the number of displaced people in Tawila, a town 60 kilometers away, and reduced el-Fasher’s population by 62% this year alone. Daniels emphasized that Sudan is now the world’s largest displacement crisis, with over 12 million people displaced and 24 million facing acute food insecurity. The conflict, which began in 2023 between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese military, has claimed at least 40,000 lives and devastated infrastructure, particularly in Darfur and Kordofan. El-Fasher, the military’s last stronghold in Darfur, has seen intensified attacks, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The collapse of health care systems has led to rampant diseases like cholera, malaria, and dengue fever, with over 113,000 cholera cases and 3,000 deaths recorded since July 2024. Despite efforts to distribute mosquito nets and restore health services, access to essential aid remains severely restricted due to ongoing violence and attacks on aid convoys. Daniels and Sudan’s Health Minister Haitham Ibrahim have called for increased international support and a ceasefire to address the dire situation. Daniels stressed that peace is essential to provide assistance to those in need, as humanitarian funding remains critically low, with only 26% of Sudan’s overall response plan funded.
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Kerala’s 93-year-old Ayurvedic legacy arrives in Dubai with first global centre
Dhanwantari Vaidyasala, a renowned Ayurvedic institution from Kerala, has inaugurated its first international centre in Bur Dubai, marking a significant milestone in its 93-year history. Founded in 1933, the Kerala-based institution has long been a beacon of authentic Ayurvedic healing and wellness. The new facility in Al Ain Center aims to make its acclaimed treatments more accessible to UAE residents, many of whom previously travelled to India for care. This expansion is part of a broader vision to establish a global presence under the banner of ‘Dhanwantari Global.’ Dr Satheesh Kumar Namboothiri, the managing director, revealed ambitious plans to open new centres in Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, the Philippines, Germany, and Australia by 2026. The Dubai centre will focus on addressing modern health challenges, including diabetes and chronic diseases, through authentic Ayurvedic methods. Dr Sathya K Pillai, the medical director, emphasized the facility’s advanced diagnostic systems and specialised treatments for conditions like neuropathy, eye ailments, and skin and hair care. Additionally, Dhanwantari UAE plans to expand its footprint across the Gulf, with 10 direct outlets, franchise models, and kiosks set to open within the next three years. The brand has already integrated into the local community by acquiring the Ayur Sathya clinic and will soon introduce long-term treatment packages for regular clients.
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UAE to get more rain, cooler weather as countdown to winter starts
As the UAE transitions from summer to winter, residents are preparing for a shift in weather patterns, marked by increased rainfall and cooler temperatures. According to Dr. Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), cloud cover is expected to bring precipitation to the eastern and southern regions of the country starting October 21. This weather change is attributed to a surface low-pressure system interacting with an upper-air trough, which has heightened atmospheric instability and cloud formation. Recently, the UAE has experienced moderate to heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and a noticeable drop in temperatures across various emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. These conditions have prompted residents to adjust their plans, including celebrations for the Indian festival of Diwali. Dr. Habib explained that the convective clouds spreading across the UAE could lead to varying intensities of rainfall, occasionally even producing hail. He also noted the residual effects of a tropical storm in the Arabian Sea, combined with northwesterly and easterly winds, as contributing factors to the current weather instability. While winter officially begins on December 21, the UAE is already experiencing transitional weather patterns, with increased daytime cloud cover and moderate nighttime temperatures. The NCM continues to monitor the skies and conduct cloud seeding operations when convective clouds are present.