AKU unveils plans to establish CVD intervention centres in rural Sindh

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

The Aga Khan University’s Center for IMPACT for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Studies held an inception meeting where it laid out its research and development plans to combat the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases, mostly in rural Sindh.

Prof Zainab Samad, Chair of the Department of Medicine at AKU, who presided over the meeting said, “While we may attribute the rising trends of CVDs in rural areas of Sindh to the increasing temperatures, lack of workplace safety, or dietary reasons, it’s also true that we have the capability to design healthcare frameworks to counter these trends.”

The Secretary Health for Sindh, Mr. Rehan Iqbal Baloch, shared his thoughts on the research and development plans saying, “These research initiatives are vital to enhance community relations, especially in areas with limited infrastructural access. We appreciate the Aga Khan University’s efforts in reaching out to the marginalized communities across the board and raising awareness on intervention methods regarding cardiovascular diseases.”

The meeting shed light on a detailed research and development strategy aimed at establishing affordable and timely healthcare intervention approaches to address the potential risks of CVDs. Besides this, the research also outlines the demographics that may be more vulnerable to CVD-inducing factors.

“School children are one area of the population with the highest risk of CVDs. Enabling timely healthcare access and public awareness may help curb these risks, and also stem the rise of other non-communicable diseases linked to cardiovascular health” said Prof Dr Salim Virani, Vice Provost Research at AKU.

The Centre for IMPACT work package at AKU, funded by NIHR in the United Kingdom, aims to identify the best multi-faceted approaches to eliminate cardiovascular emergencies in Sindh by combining previous research and healthcare intervention techniques.

Performance Showdown: Gaming Smartphones vs. Conventional Smartphones in 2024

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

It’s 2024, and you’re faced with a common dilemma: choosing between a flagship conventional phone or a dedicated gaming phone. This choice can be overwhelming, with both options offering impressive specs and features. However, understanding the trade-offs is essential. Let’s examine what makes a gaming phone exceptional, and what you sacrifice by not choosing a conventional smartphone.

Gaming phones are purpose-built for gamers boasting top-tier specs, including high-functioning processors, expansive RAM, powerful batteries, high refresh rate displays, and other specialized features for immersive gaming experiences. While gaming phones encompass all the functionalities of conventional smartphones, they go a step further by incorporating features tailored to meet the needs of avid gamers. This means they cannot only easily handle everyday tasks but also provide an unparalleled gaming experience that conventional phones might lack.

Dedicated gaming phones are equipped with the latest and most powerful chipsets, ensuring smooth gameplay even for the most demanding games. They feature at least 8GB of RAM, which handles multitasking and heavy applications with ease. Extended gaming sessions demand long-lasting power. Gaming phones often feature batteries of 5,000 mAh or more, providing enough battery to keep you in the game without frequent recharges. While many flagship phones boast good battery life, they might not match the endurance of gaming phones designed for prolonged use.

Modern games are filled with vibrant colors and intricate details, requiring high-quality displays to truly do them justice. Gaming phones excel in this area, standing out for their exceptional displays and high refresh rates exceeding up to 144Hz, while normal phones have refresh rates from 60Hz to 120Hz.

One of the benefits of gaming phones is their robust hardware and software, which enhance the overall gaming experience. Conventional smartphones may not have the same level of hardware and software optimization for gaming, which can result in lower frame rates.

Additionally, unlike conventional phones, gaming phones come equipped with advanced cooling systems, customizable gaming modes, and specialized software enhancements that optimize performance and provide an immersive gaming experience. However, on the other hand, conventional smartphones offer sleek designs and better cameras.

So, if you’re stuck between choosing a flagship conventional phone and a gaming phone, the Infinix GT 20 Pro offers a compelling solution. Infinix has set a new standard in gaming phones with the launch of the innovative GT 20 Pro. It combines the best of both worlds, providing superior gaming performance without compromising everyday smartphone features.

The Infinix GT 20 Pro boasts a strong hardware suite designed to deliver an exceptional user experience. The centerpiece of this device is the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G processor, which is complemented by a dedicated display chip. This combination ensures both smooth performance and superior visuals. The GT 20 Pro achieves a remarkable 120FPS refresh rate, resulting in seamless navigation and highly responsive gaming. Additionally, the phone features a stunning 144Hz FHD AMOLED display that minimizes motion blur and offers exceptional clarity, making it ideal for both everyday use and fast-paced gaming environments. To further enhance user experience, the GT 20 Pro is equipped with ample storage capacity (256GB) and generous RAM (12GB) expandable up to 24 GB. This combination empowers users to run demanding applications and store a significant amount of data without encountering performance limitations.

Moreover, the Infinix GT 20 Pro strikes a compelling balance between the high-performance capabilities of a gaming phone and the everyday functionality of a conventional smartphone, providing a balanced device for all diverse user needs.

easypaisa Enables in-app QR Payments for Sale, Purchase of Sacrificial Animals this Eid-ul-Azha

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

easypaisa, is bringing ease and convenience to its users this Eid-ul-Azha for the sale and purchase of sacrificial animals through its very own in-app Raast-based QR code payment mechanism.

The initiative is part of the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) QR code payment system under the Raast instant payment service, aimed at facilitating the public and traders alike during the sale and purchase of sacrificial animals.

Eid-ul-Azha generates a wealth of economic activity in Pakistan each year, with around PKR 376 billion worth of animals sacrificed last year. Given the magnitude of transactions taking place during the Eid ul Azha time frame, easypaisa will enable customers to transact securely and conveniently through its in-app QR feature and support SBP in its mission to drive Pakistan’s digital financial space forward. 

Through this feature, all easypaisa users, along with all digital banking app and wallet users can send and receive money seamlessly at selected cattle markets across Pakistan. To send money, users simply need to tap the scan code option on the home screen, scan the receiver’s QR code, and enter the amount to proceed with the transaction. Similarly, to receive payments, users can tap the scan code option on their easypaisa app home screen and tap on receive money through either a static or a dynamic QR code.

Commenting on this development, Shahmeer Nadeem, Head of Product Management, TMB/easypaisa, remarked, “We remain committed to SBP’s mission of making Pakistan a financially inclusive society through our unique and customer-centric product offerings. The instant QR payment mechanism is the need of the hour and helps digitize the otherwise cash-intensive cattle market transactions, and ensures that our users can enjoy a hassle-free transaction experience during the Eid-ul-Azha festivities.”

The State Bank of Pakistan has taken a proactive and diligent approach to spearheading the digitization of Pakistan’s financial landscape. Aligned with the regulator’s vision, easypaisa has consistently demonstrated its position as a frontrunner, leading the charge to transform the nation’s financial services sector.

With over 40 million registered mobile accounts and counting, easypaisa remains dedicated to its mission of transforming Pakistan into a financially inclusive society through the power of collaboration and technology.

RITZ-CARLTON Reserve Makes Grand Entrance In The Middle East

RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE MAKES GRAND ENTRANCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST WITH EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE ISLAND OASIS IN THE RED SEA, SAUDI ARABIA.

NUJUMA, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, OFFERS GUESTS A RARE AND IMMERSIVE ESCAPE TO DISCOVER SAUDI ARABIAN CULTURE AND THE UNTAPPED WONDERS OF THE RED SEA.

Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia (Nut Desk) Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East was unveiled today on Ummahat Island in the tranquil waters of The Red Sea. The private island retreat is nestled within the captivating Blue Hole cluster of islands, where pristine coral reefs thrive beneath the surface and the celestial canopy above paints an endless tapestry of stars. Nujuma – inspired by the meaning of ‘stars’ in Arabic – invites travellers to embark on an unchartered journey to one of the world’s most secluded and protected archipelagos. Here, amidst the azure expanse, guests are beckoned to explore and immerse themselves in the region’s culture and traditions.

“As more and more travellers look to discover new corners of the earth, we are thrilled to reveal our newest Ritz-Carlton Reserve, located amongst the natural beauty and stunning setting of The Red Sea,” said Jenni Benzaquen, SVP The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts. “Nujuma joins a collection of rare Ritz-Carlton Reserve estates around the world, inviting the most discerning travellers to embark on a journey of exploration where every encounter reveals a deeper connection to the destination. I cannot wait for guests to discover this luxurious private sanctuary and truly transformative experience.”

The Red Sea, one of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s luxury regenerative tourism destinations on the west coast of the country, is surrounded by the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system with an archipelago of more than 90 untouched islands. From this enchanting setting, guests can embark on extraordinary snorkelling and scuba diving adventures to uncover seldom visited sites beneath the waves. Teeming with vibrant coral reefs that have thrived for over five thousand years, the barrier reef is home to fascinating ecosystems including over 165 endemic reef fish, dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and Napoleon wrasse.

The island’s shores are fringed by rich mangroves, known to be one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, and within this lush habitat visitors can spot a variety of sea birds, marine invertebrates and havali guitarfish. Beyond the turquoise waters, guests can discover the beauty of the coastal mainland through guided trails across majestic desert dunes.  

Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma’s sweeping shell-inspired architecture and elegant interiors are crafted with natural materials imbued with calming sea and sand tones, and geometric patterns reminiscent of the region’s design motifs. Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftmanship flow through the canopied interiors. Lush landscaping of indigenous plants elegantly frame the pathways between the pavilioned spaces and villas. 

Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 overwater and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodation, spacious living areas and private pools overlooking the sea. Guests can marvel at the limitless starry night skies from the comfort of their villa through telescopes positioned on each deck. Perched above the cerulean-blue sea and connected by an elevated ring walkway, the overwater villas offer panoramic views and direct access to the sea. Nestled on undisturbed soft white sand, the beach villas are secluded retreats flooded with natural light and the sea’s refreshing breeze. Each villa enjoys the services of a dedicated personal host, who will take care of every detail and guide guests through all the enriching experiences this destination has to offer.    

Opportunity to gain unique insights into the Saudi Arabian culture, traditions and the destination are presented by a team of local experts dedicated to preserving and sharing their heritage. Honouring the legacy of nomadic exploration and learning, the Conservation House is an integrated space for creative pursuits to expand knowledge and foster a sense of community. Through hands-on activities hosted by resident sustainability, environmental, and cultural experts, guests of all ages can cultivate a deep connection with the destination. 

Nujuma’s dining philosophy is inspired by the Arabian tradition of gathering at one’s home to share stories of good fortune, poetry, philosophy and science. Each of the Reserve’s five culinary experiences honour the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region whose lives have been deeply intertwined with the area for over 50 years. Guests are warmly welcomed to Tabrah, a modern interpretation of a fisherman’s home, to share a menu of seafood specialities including, ‘The Luckiest Catch’, a communal celebration of the sea’s daily bounty that has nurtured the fisherman’s family through the ages. Jamaa is a relaxed alfresco space serving light dishes prepared in an open kitchen and over a wood-fire grill to the resort’s outdoor pool and beach lined with plush cabanas.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Maia is an intimate place for astrology inspired refreshments prepared by expert mixologists, including ‘Gemini’, a citrus mocktail named after the constellation, known as al-Taw‘amân in Arabic, that can be seen from Saudi Arabia’s capital all year. Designed to celebrate the wonders of the night’s sky featuring telescope and star design elements, the open-air terrace is a place to gaze above while Nujuma’s astrologer shares insights into the evening’s constellation. Inspired by vibrant bazaars, all day dining venue, Sita, is a spacious French-style patisserie and a Levantine restaurant under three woven-wood pavilions, a design nod to the tradition of leaf weaving. Guests are greeted by the aroma of freshly baked bread exuding from a traditional clay oven, paired with fresh hummus and dishes seasoned from the resort’s vast spice library. 

Neyrah Spa is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. The serene indoor and outdoor oasis invites guests to nourish the body and soul through ceremonies and methods from around the globe while connecting with regional ingredients including the enchanting scent of oud and moringa peregrina tree oil sourced from the AlUla region. Wellness experts design bespoke journeys to rebalance and relax, and guide guests through breathing techniques, meditation, lunar yoga and sound healing therapy. The sea’s breeze and gentle sounds of waves flow through five sea-facing treatment rooms and three outdoor treatment cabins. The space also features vitality and lap pools, a hammam and a fitness centre. Designed as a voyage, bespoke treatments encourage guests to reflect on the past, live in the present, and step into the future with clarity and energy. 

“With the launch of the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the region, we are opening the doors to an unparalleled destination and inviting the world to discover The Red Sea destination,” said Tony Coveney, General Manager, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, “Nujuma is unlike any other property in the region, a pinnacle of luxury with discovery and sustainability at its core, offering guests a transformative journey into the extraordinary set within the picture-perfect backdrop of Ummahat Island’s natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy an unforgettable exploration of the destination where every moment is infused with wonder and connection.”  

Ritz-Carlton Reserve is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands. For more information and reservation inquiries, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com.

 

 

‘NourishMaa’ campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

*Nutrition International and Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa kickoff NourishMaa Campaign to promote maternal nutrition*
Nutrition International, in collaboration with the Health Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), launched the ‘NourishMaa’ campaign in the province. The campaign aims to promote maternal nutrition by improving the knowledge and skills of healthcare providers (HCPs) and frontline health workers (FHWs). This campaign, already operational in six districts across Punjab and Sindh, has now extended to KP, focusing on two high-burden districts – Mardan and Battagram, where maternal malnutrition rates are particularly concerning.
“The health and nutrition of mothers and children are foundational pillars for the overall development of our society” said Syed Qasim Ali Shah, Minister for Health KP. Emphasizing the critical role of maternal nutrition in ensuring the health and wellbeing of both mothers and children, the Minister underscored the urgency of addressing maternal malnutrition, stressing the pivotal role of healthcare providers in creating a healthier future. He called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to implement effective interventions and ensure sustained improvements in maternal nutrition across the province.
The health minister, referencing the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) 2018, highlighted that women of reproductive age face the triple burden of malnutrition – 14.4% are underweight, 38% are overweight and obese, 42.7% suffer from anaemia with a high prevalence of other micronutrient deficiencies. While KP’s rates of anemia (27.5%) and micronutrient deficiencies are lower than the national figures, concerted efforts are required to further improve these indicators. To address these concerning statistics, the government prioritizes women-centric and equity-based strategies and programs, which have informed the development of this campaign. Appreciating Nutrition International for its support to the Health Department, the Minister for health requested the expansion of the Campaign to other districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with low maternal nutrition indicators. 
The NourishMaa campaign, spearheaded by Nutrition International in collaboration with the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination (MoNHSRC) and provincial health departments, is designed to complement the government’s ongoing efforts to elevate women’s nutrition in the country. Currently operational in four districts of Sindh – Karachi East, Korangi, Qambar Shahdadkot, and Larkana – and two districts of Punjab – Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur, the campaign now extends to Mardan, and Battagram.  
The campaign’s core objectives include raising awareness about maternal nutrition and strengthening the capabilities of HCPs in both public and private sectors, alongside FHWs to incorporate nutrition counselling on their routine practice. Altogether, this initiative aims to reach over 6,000 HCPs and FHWs in the targeted districts, enhancing their knowledge and capacities in maternal nutrition and integrating nutrition counseling into their daily practices. This comprehensive approach aims to create a lasting impact on maternal and child health in the country.
“Nutrition International is dedicated to advancing maternal nutrition in the country through research, program implementation, technical assistance, policy advocacy and capacity building of key stakeholders,” said Dr. Irfan Ullah, Deputy Country Director for Pakistan, Nutrition International while addressing the audience at the launch event. He added, “Improving knowledge, attitudes and practices of health care providers is the key component for creating an enabling environment for maternal nutrition, and this objective is at the core of what the NourishMaa campaign aims to achieve.
Highlighting the campaign’s success in Sindh and Punjab, Dr. Irfan shared that the project reached over 5,600 HCPs and FHWs on different facets of maternal nutrition and their critical role in nutrition counseling. Through interpersonal communication, sensitization sessions, capacity building workshops, and seminars, the Campaign has made significant progress. Additionally, specialized doctors from all targeted districts were trained as master trainers who engaged over 700 HCPs in their respective districts on maternal nutrition. Leveraging diverse media platforms, the campaign reached over 1.6 million people, covering diverse range of maternal nutrition topics. Based on the learnings of the Campaign, Dr. Irfan emphasized to integrate maternal nutrition into the harmonized medical and allied health curriculums and the accountability of the maternal nutrition service delivery should be enhanced within the health sector.

Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s World premiere of Documentary “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman In Charge”.

SHARMEEN OBAID-CHINOY’S WORLD PREMIERE OF DOCUMENTARY “DIANE VON FURSTENBERG: WOMAN IN CHARGE” OPENS TRIBECA FESTIVAL

Pakistani filmmaker and two-time Academy Award winner Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and co-director Trish Dalton headlined the opening night of the 2024 Tribeca Festival in New York City, with the world premiere of “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman In Charge”.

“DVF – Woman in Charge has been a nearly three-year journey. In telling Diane’s story, we are celebrating the life of an icon who’s always danced to her own tune. She started her business in an era when women had to rely on men to vouch for them financially – to cosign for credit cards. She has fallen down and picked herself up countless times. Yet her message through the film has been, that women need to be true to themselves. Our all-female crew was inspired to join her on this journey. As we unveil her life to the world, we do so with glimpses into the different decades she’s lived through, from Europe of the 1950s and 1960s to America of the 70s and 80s, all against the backdrop of socio-political change and evolution. Ultimately, Diane’s life stands as a beacon of empowerment, resilience and entrepreneurship.” said Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.

The opening night world premiere was held at the OKX Theater at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center. The documentary will release on Hulu on June 25th, 2024.  

This film dives deep into von Furstenberg’s remarkable career, from the creation of the iconic wrap dress in 1974 – a design that continues to flatter women of all shapes and sizes – to her ongoing role as a cultural icon. “Woman in Charge” promises an unprecedented look at von Furstenberg’s world, capturing both the triumphs and struggles that shaped her journey.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 05: (L-R) Diane Von Furstenberg and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy attend the opening night premiere of “Diane Von Furstenberg: Woman In Charge” during the 2024 Tribeca Festival at BMCC Theater on June 05, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

 

AKU, WHO, and UNICEF stress the need to save youth from non-communicable diseases

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

The Aga Khan University’s Department of Community Health Sciences (CHS) has kicked off a three-day conference to discuss and resolve adolescent health issues, with participation from the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The conference, titled “Healthy Futures: Preventing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Young Hearts and Minds,” sheds light on critical and under-discussed topics such as screen time, obesity, substance use and abuse, mental health problems, sedentary lifestyles, educational curricula, and lifestyle innovations that must be implemented on a large scale to counter these problematic trends. Chief Guest Dr Fouzia Khan, Chief Executive Advisor, School Education Department, Government of Sindh said, “Encouraging young people to live a healthy and active lifestyle requires massive efforts on behalf of their parents, teachers, and other social institutions. Acknowledging the current state of our youth is the first step towards lifestyle modifications towards a better future.” The three-day conference includes research presentations, panel discussions, plenary talks, and a variety of other activities designed to encourage dialogue among academic experts, healthcare professionals, and teachers alike. Dr Lamia Mehmud, Regional Adviser Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention at the World Health Organisation (WHO) said, “A coalition of pioneering health faculties with local governments and grassroots mentors is what we need to get to our young people. It’s vital for our young ones to enjoy their lives, but we need to teach them how to avoid risking their wellbeing for the sake of fun or comfort.” Adolescents comprise one-fifth of the Eastern Mediterranean Region’s population, representing a critical developmental stage. WHO emphasizes prioritizing adolescent health to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs), responsible for over half of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and 20% of deaths among those aged 10-19. The Youth Health Council engages youths in NCD prevention strategies. Aside from research and dialogue discussions, the conference also provides an opportunity for young people to explore and engage in informative activities and exhibits about non-communicable diseases, their consequences, and how these adolescents and young adults can significantly improve the quality of their health by making small lifestyle changes. Abdullah A. Fadil, UNICEF’s representative in Pakistan, stated that it’s critical to connect and relate to our pre-teens and teens rather than leaving them in silos. “Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are among the top three causes of death for children aged 10-14 in Pakistan and are the leading cause of death for girls between the ages of 15 and 19. There is an urgent need for parents, caregivers, teachers, mentors, and young people themselves to prioritize physical and mental health of adolescents. To safeguard young hearts and minds from NCDs, several actions can be taken immediately by individuals and educational institutions. These include: increasing physical activity and decreasing screen time; choosing more nutritious foods and limiting substance use; allocating more resources to mental health services; reducing air pollution; and incorporating age-appropriate climate change, mental health and physical education in the national curriculum.” The conference also emphasizes the importance of tackling NCDs in teens, which requires attention from governing bodies and the scientific community, as well as pressing concerns such climate emergencies and the availability of public spaces. Dr Romaina Iqbal, Section Head NCD and Mental Health, Department of CHS, said “Evidence suggests that 70% of the poor habits that lead to NCDs later in life are developed during adolescence. The Aga Khan University is ever ready and willing to play its role in educating adolescents about the dangers of sedentary and unhealthy lifestyles. With promising collaborations between public and private entities, we are sure we can divest our young population from wasting their lives in unhealthy engagements.” Prof. Zainab Samad, Chair Department of Medicine, said that “Prevention is better than treatment. Poor diet, physical inactivity, tobacco consumption, climate change and poor mental health are all associated with the development of NCDs in the Pakistani population. It is therefore important to modify all these factors so that we can prevent the development of NCDs”.

Grenlit Studios Unveils ‘Shark Tank Pakistan’ Logo, Launches the Social Media channels

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Did you hear about Shark Tank Pakistan revealing their logo? Not only that, they’re also launching their social media accounts. They’ve finally stepped into the playing field and are all set to play the game.

For the first time ever Pakistan is going to experience a revolution unlike no other in the business and startup landscape. As we know, New businesses and startups are bubbling over with awesome ideas that can change the game! They’ll be pitching these ideas to the Sharks, who are like super investors with mountains of cash to give away.

But not everyone can impress the Sharks – that’s where things get REALLY interesting! We know Shark Tank Pakistan is coming soon, but who the mystery Sharks will be is still under wraps! Everyone’s buzzing with guesses – who do YOU think will be swimming in the tank this time?

Be sure to stay tuned and follow their social media launch to be the first to find out!

Everyone’s buzzing with guesses – who do YOU think will be swimming in the tank this time? Be sure to stay tuned and follow their social media launch to be the first to find out!

Business lovers, this is one fin-tastic event you DON’T want to miss!

TCL Pakistan’s Special Cricket World Cup TV Offers

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

TCL, Pakistan’s No.1 LED TV Brand and the official associate partner of the Pakistan Cricket Team, proudly announces a special promotion in celebration of the T20 World Cup season. For the first time, TCL Pakistan’s logo is featured on the official World Cup jersey, marking a significant milestone for the brand and showcasing its strong commitment to supporting cricket in Pakistan.

To celebrate this momentous occasion and share the excitement with cricket fans nationwide, TCL Pakistan is offering exclusive discounts on two of its popular television models: the 55″ P635 4K TV and the 40″ S5400. These promotions are available until June 29, 2024. These limited-time offers are crafted to enhance the viewing experience of cricket enthusiasts, allowing them to enjoy World Cup matches in stunning high definition.

55″ P635 4K TV: Experience the thrill of the World Cup with exceptional picture quality and vibrant colours on TCL’s P635 4K TV. It features HDR10 technology, which enhances contrast and colour accuracy for a more realistic and vibrant picture. The TV also includes Dolby Audio for immersive sound quality, complementing the high-definition visuals. Additionally, it comes with Google TV, equipped with Google Assistant, and access to a vast range of apps on the Google Play Store. Now available at a special discounted price of PKR 109,900 from 140,900, this model provides an immersive viewing experience that brings every match to life.

The 40″ S5400 Google TV provides a crisp and detailed viewing experience with its Full HD resolution and HDR technology, which improves picture quality by enhancing colour and contrast levels. With access to the Google Play Store, users can download a wide range of apps and games to further enhance their entertainment options. Like the P635, the S5400 includes Dolby Audio for high-quality sound, enriching the overall viewing experience. Its compact design makes it ideal for smaller spaces while still delivering an impressive visual experience. Enjoy the World Cup action at a special reduced price of PKR 70,900.

“We are thrilled to see our logo on the official World Cup match jersey for the first time, symbolizing our strong partnership with the PCB and our dedication to cricket in Pakistan. To celebrate this historic moment, we are delighted to offer special discounts on our 55″ P635 4K TV and 40″ S5400 TV, allowing our customers to enjoy the World Cup season with the best viewing experience possible,” said Majid Khan Niazi, Director of Marketing, TCL Middle East and Africa.

The special discounts are available for a limited time only and can be availed through TCL Pakistan’s official website and retail partners nationwide. Cricket fans and tech enthusiasts are encouraged to take advantage of these offers while stocks last.

Elevate raises $5 million to offer US based $ accounts in emerging markets like Pakistan!

Pakistan (Nut Desk)

Elevate, a fintech, based in London and Dubai, has secured financing of $5 million to expand further into South Asia. They’ve raised a total of $10 million in equity and debt from investors including Y Combinator, Goodwater, Global Founders Capital and VSQ and Since launching earlier this year, over 50,000 Freelancers and remote workers from Pakistan and more than 150,000 have signed up in total.

Having received unprecedented response from Pakistani freelancers in a very short span of time, Elevate is looking at registering over 500,000 Pakistani freelancers and remote workers facilitating them to increase their business share in the USA as well as other developed markets.

Elevate simplifies receiving USD payments by supporting free and fast deposits from US and international employers as well as platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Paypal, Deel and Toptal. Online spending is enabled through a virtual debit card and for sending money home Elevate offers market leading FX rates.

When customers receive payments into their Elevate accounts the funds sit with Bangor Savings Bank, a 172-year-old bank located in Maine, United States. Bangor Savings Bank acts as the deposit taking institution and card issuer, and because they are an FDIC-member, customer deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000. This makes it the only service available for people in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Philippines to open an FDIC-insured U.S. bank account.

Khalid Keenan, CEO of Elevate said that “Freelancing and remote work is going to be a key source of foreign income for emerging markets. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr and Deel have empowered talent from countries like Pakistan to compete on a global scale and earn in USD”.

Existing platforms like Payoneer have not serviced the region well with excessively high fees. Our mission at Elevate is for freelancers and remote workers to quickly and easily get paid at minimal cost so they keep as much of their hard-earned earnings as possible, Khalid added.