New Zealand is set to ease visitor visa rules to allow visitors to work remotely while they are visiting. Erica Stanford, Immigration Minister stated that starting January 27, visitors would be able to work while travelling across the country.
“This is a brand-new market of tourists New Zealand can tap into. We want people to see our country as the ideal place to visit and work while they do it,” she said.
“The government’s ambition is that new visa rules will put New Zealand boldly on the map as a welcoming haven for the world’s talent,” New Zealand Minister of Economic Growth Nicola Willis, said.
“We hope that in some cases, it will encourage those people and the firms they represent to consider doing more business with New Zealand in the future,” Willis added. International visitor numbers are currently at approximately 86% of 2019 levels. The tourism sector continues to recover from pandemic-induced border closures.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
The second Test between Pakistan and the West Indies got over inside seven sessions at the Multan Cricket Stadium. On the back of Jomel Warrican’s five-for in the fourth innings, West Indies secured a 120-run win on Monday, January 27, to level the two-match series 1-1.
Pakistan started Day 3 at 76/4, chasing a target of 254 on a very tricky surface. Overnight batters Saud Shakeel and Kashif Ali were dismissed in the first and second over of Day 3. Kevin Sinclair took the wicket of Shakeel on the third ball of the day with an almost perfect delivery. Meanwhile, the in-form Warrican got the better of the nightwatchman, Kashif, in the following over.
Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan joined forces and stitched a fighting partnership of 39 runs. However, the all-rounder’s resistance came to an end when Warrican trapped him in front of the stumps with a ball that came in with the arm. A few overs later, Warrican quashed Pakistan’s hopes of a memorable win when he went through Rizwan’s defence and disturbed the stumps.
At 122/8, and with no proper batter remaining, Pakistan were staring at a humiliating home defeat. Noman Ali tried to score some quick runs and hit a six off Gudakesh Motie in the process. However, the all-rounder dismissed him with his following delivery as Pakistan slipped further.
It was fitting when Warrican took the last wicket of Sajid Khan to help the West Indies register their first win on Pakistan soil since 1990. The Caribbean side also levelled the two-match series after they had lost the first Test. The home side was dismissed for 133 as the Kraigg Brathwaite-led side won by a comfortable margin of 120 runs as Warrican finished with figures of 5/27 to add to his four-for in the first innings.
The left-arm spinner finished with 19 wickets from the two Tests and won the Player of the Series award. He was also adjudged Player of the Match in the second Test.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
The 27th of January marks the International Holocaust Remembrance Day every year. In 1945, this was the day when the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, where more than 1 million people were sent to gas chambers to their agonising deaths, was liberated at last.
During World War II, approximately 44,000 concentration camps and ghettos existed across Nazi-occupied Europe. Adolf Hitler used these horrifying sites as a mechanism to terrorise and eliminate the non-Aryan groups aka those not part of the pure, white Germanic race. One of these camps was Auschwitz, where more than 1.1 million people died or were forced into labour.
It is self-evident that the holocaust should be remembered in the way it was- horrifying, terrifying and an extreme case of genocide. Auschwitz inmates were employed on huge farms. They were forced to work in coal mines, stone quarries, fisheries and armaments industries. If this wasn’t bad enough, upon being too sick or weak, they were transported to Auschwitz-Birkenau and killed.
The Importance of Remembering
The holocaust will not be forgotten, for it comes with the responsibility of remembering. The mass murder of six million people might be a statistic to many but each dead person had a name, an identity. The Quran says in verse 5:32, “Whoever kills a person, it is as if they have killed all mankind; and whoever saves a life, it is as if they have saved all mankind.”
However, it makes me sad to think that despite the horrendous events of World War II not very long ago, we might have already forgotten about them.
No one is safe until everyone is safe. In October of 2023, Palestinians became subjected to a war that continued for 15 long months, killing 46,600 people according to the official Palestinian Health Ministry. These were just the deaths documented; how many remain under the rubble, undocumented, is still not known to the world.
“I have experienced what the children in Gaza are experiencing now,” Marione Ingram, an 88-year-old holocaust survivor said, adding, “So it is something when I see what is going on in Gaza, it has an immediate identification with my life as a child.”
So, Have We Really Progressed?
On this day, the day that marks the liberation of Auschwitz, it’s time we question ourselves- Have we really progressed as humans? If the heinous murder of six million Jews is considered genocide then why is the same happening to the Palestinians called a war? How is creating a graveyard of 17000 plus children considered an act of self-defence? Who is being defended and from who? And worst of all, where are the world leaders when they’re needed the most? Why does the deafening silence get louder with every passing day? So, I ask you again: Have we really progressed as humans in the past 80 years?
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
On January 20, the little-known Chinese AI research lab DeepSeek made waves by releasing an open-source AI model. According to their research paper, DeepSeek-R1 outperforms leading models like OpenAI’s o1 in several math and reasoning benchmarks. The model also excels in key areas such as capability, cost and openness, challenging Western AI giants.
A Surprising Outcome of the Tech Cold War
DeepSeek’s success highlights an unintended result of the ongoing tech rivalry between the US and China. US export controls have limited Chinese companies from scaling up traditionally; buying more chips and extending training times. Most Chinese firms have shifted focus to downstream applications, avoiding direct competition with Western leaders. However, DeepSeek’s strategy proves there’s another way to win: revamping AI model structures to use resources more efficiently.
A Focus on Software Optimisation
“Unlike many Chinese AI firms that rely heavily on advanced hardware, DeepSeek focuses on software-driven resource optimisation,” says Marina Zhang, an associate professor at the University of Technology Sydney.
“By embracing open-source methods, they pool collective expertise and foster collaborative innovation. This approach overcomes resource constraints and accelerates technological development, setting DeepSeek apart from its competitors.”
DeepSeek’s Roots in Finance
DeepSeek began as Fire-Flyer, a research branch of High-Flyer, a leading Chinese quantitative hedge fund. High-Flyer, founded in 2015, quickly gained prominence, managing over 100 billion RMB ($15 billion) at its peak. By 2023, Liang Wenfeng, a computer science master’s graduate, redirected the hedge fund’s resources into DeepSeek. His bold vision was to build cutting-edge models and work toward artificial general intelligence.
DeepSeek Dethrones OpenAI’s ChatGPT on Apple’s App Store in the United States
“DeepSeek represents a new generation of Chinese tech companies that prioritise long-term innovation over quick profits,” says Zhang.
Liang told 36Kr, a Chinese tech publication, that scientific curiosity motivated him to start DeepSeek. “Basic science research has a very low return-on-investment ratio,” he said. “When OpenAI’s early investors gave it money, they weren’t thinking about profits. They simply wanted to pursue the idea.”
Unlike other Chinese AI firms, DeepSeek operates without funding from giants like Baidu, Alibaba, or ByteDance.
A Team of Young Innovators
Liang’s hiring strategy focused on PhD students from top Chinese universities, such as Peking University and Tsinghua University. Many had published in prestigious journals and won international awards but lacked industry experience.
“Our core technical positions are filled by recent graduates,” Liang told 36Kr. This created a collaborative environment where researchers had access to ample resources for unorthodox projects. The contrast with other firms, where teams compete for resources, is stark.
“Most young people can commit fully to a mission without utilitarian concerns,” Liang explained. His pitch to recruits was simple: “Solve the hardest questions in the world.”
Necessary Innovation
US export controls on advanced chips like Nvidia’s H100 posed a challenge for DeepSeek. Although the company began with a stockpile of 10,000 H100s, they needed more to stay competitive.
DeepSeek adapted by finding more efficient ways to train models. “They used engineering tricks, custom chip communication schemes and memory-saving techniques,” explains Wendy Chang, a policy analyst at the Mercator Institute. DeepSeek also excelled in Multi-head Latent Attention (MLA) and Mixture-of-Experts designs, creating cost-effective models requiring less computing power. Their latest model, for instance, used one-tenth the resources of Meta’s Llama 3.1.
DeepSeek has emerged as a bold innovator, proving that resource constraints can inspire groundbreaking approaches. By focusing on efficiency, collaboration, and open-source methods, it has reshaped global AI dynamics. The rise of DeepSeek signals a new era where innovation is driven not just by resources but by creativity and determination.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
On Sunday, Kashmiris worldwide marked India’s Republic Day as Black Day. This annual protest reflects their ongoing fight for freedom and justice.
Protests against Indian Occupation and Violence
An unyielding Kashmir rebellion against Indian control has continued for 77 years, rejecting the Indians’ claim to legitimate control over the region. Besides, it brings to the world’s attention the ongoing human rights violations taking place in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), such as custodial killing, torture and harassment of innocents.
The people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir were united in mass. Protests and rallies took place in all ten districts. The state capital of Muzaffarabad was also host to a major demonstration with political leaders and parliamentarians joining in. Also, protests were held throughout Pakistan and other countries, unmistakably conveying a message of solidarity.
Kashmiris observe ‘Black Day’ on Indian Republic Day
Global Attention Urged by APHC
The APHC called for the attention of the world to the rapidly deteriorating condition in Kashmir. They urged world powers to put pressure on India to resolve the Kashmir conflict peacefully. Additionally, they pointed out that ignoring the issue allows these injustices to continue out of sight.
Prime Minister of AJK, Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, minced no words when addressing a rally in Islamabad. He said:
“Kashmiris are observing India’s Republic Day as Black Day today to protest Indian illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.”
He went on to condemn India’s treatment of minorities under the Modi government. “Minorities in Modi’s India neither enjoy religious freedom nor their places of worship are safe,” he said. Furthermore, he accused the Modi regime of orchestrating crimes like the killing of Sikh leaders in Canada while deflecting blame onto Pakistan.
Eternal Bond between Pakistan and Kashmir
The Prime Minister of AJK assured Kashmiris that their fight for self-determination, as guaranteed under UN resolutions, would continue.
Thanking Pakistan for its continuous support, the Prime Minister stated that “Pakistan and Kashmir have an eternal relationship.”
At the rally, participants chanted slogans like “Kashmir Banay Ga Pakistan” and “Hum Pakistani Hain” to express their unity with Pakistan. The atmosphere was filled with passion and determination.
Black Day serves as a haunting reminder of the Kashmiris’ struggle for justice and freedom with a call for international intervention to quell violence in the region and restore peace. While the struggle continues, there is still hope for a better tomorrow.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has been indicted on charges of insurrection following his attempt to declare martial law in December.
His attempt to impose military rule plunged the country into an unprecedented political dilemma, making him the first sitting president in the history of South Korea to be indicted with a crime. This indictment followed a court in Seol’s dismissal of a request to extend Yoon’s detention. This meant the prosecutors had to choose whether to charge or release him.
The legal team of Yoon criticised the indictment and pledged to expose any “illegalities in the probe.” “The prosecution has made a grave mistake, reducing itself to being the indictment arm of the CIO and a tool of political interests,” Yoon’s lawyers said.
In South Korea, insurrection is punishable by life imprisonment or death. However, the latter is unlikely, as the country has not carried out executions in decades. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court has begun considerations on whether to formally dismiss Yoon as President or reinstate him.
The impeached President has also refused to cooperate with the criminal investigation over his act of imposing martial law.
Yoon is set to stand trial along with his former Defence minister and senior military commanders, accused of providing him assistance in his plan and carrying out the attempt to seize entire power.
In case of Yoon’s removal from office, a presidential election would be held within 60 days.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), provided a significant update on cricketer Saim Ayub.
Mohsin Naqvi, speaking in Houston to the reporters during his US visit, stated he is in contact with the batter’s medical staff and confirmed that PCB is committed to not hastening the young cricketer’s recovery process. The PCB chief confirmed, “We cannot put Saim Ayub’s career at risk for the Champions Trophy,”
While providing assurance about the left-handed batter’s recovery, Naqvi added, “The plaster on Saim Ayub’s foot will be removed in a couple of days as he is undergoing rehabilitation.”
It is worth mentioning that Saim Ayub is currently in the UK for his rehabilitation following an ankle injury. The batter sustained a right ankle fracture on the opening day of the second cricket test while fielding against South Africa at Newlands.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
The National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB) has issued a cybersecurity advisory warning Pakistani users about the risks of using certain browser extensions that could compromise their personal data.
The advisory highlights tools such as ChatGPT-4, Gemini for Chrome and more than a dozen others being targeted by hackers to steal private information. The board specifically alerts users who rely on virtual private networks (VPNs) and artificial intelligence-powered tools about the growing threats posed by hackers employing phishing techniques. These hackers are reportedly injecting malicious code into legitimate browser extensions, potentially exposing users’ personal identifiable information (PII).
Among the 16 compromised extensions identified are popular tools like AI Assistant – ChatGPT, Bard AI Chat Extension, VPNCity, VidHelper Video Downloader and Trackker – Online Keylogger Tool, among others.
The NTITSB has issued several key recommendations to users to protect their privacy and security:
Avoid using the affected extensions and opt for alternative trusted options.
Only install browser extensions from reputable sources.
Review extension permissions and ratings carefully before installation.
Regularly update extensions to the latest versions.
Remove unused extensions from browsers.
Install and maintain up-to-date antivirus software.
Remain cautious of free extensions, as they may carry hidden risks.
Actively monitor system activity for unusual behavior.
The advisory urges users to stay vigilant and take immediate action to safeguard their data.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
U.S. President Donald Trump said that he was in talks with multiple people about buying the TikTok app and would likely make a decision on the popular app’s future in the next 30 days. During a flight to Florida, Trump told reporters on Air Force One, “I have spoken to many people about TikTok and there is a great interest in TikTok.”
According to reports, two people with information about discussions said the U.S. President’s administration is working on a plan to save TikTok that involves tapping software company Oracle and a group of outside investors to effectively take charge of the app’s operations.
As per one source who spoke to Reuters, under the deal being negotiated by the White House, TikTok’s China-based owner, ByteDance, would maintain a stake in the company. However, Oracle, which already supports TikTok’s web infrastructure, would take responsibility for overseeing data collection and software updates.
Meanwhile, in his comments to reporters on the flight, Trump said he had not spoken to Oracle’s Larry Ellison about buying the app. When asked if he was working on a deal with Oracle and other investors to save TikTok, Donald Trump bluntly responded, “No, not with Oracle. Numerous people are talking to me, very substantial people, about buying it and I will make that decision probably over the next 30 days. Congress has given 90 days. If we can save TikTok, I think it would be a good thing.”
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
The British Museum was partially closed after a fired IT employee shut down some of its computer systems, museum management said. The museum located in Central London, which attracts almost 6 million visitors a year, closed its temporary exhibitions and part of its permanent collection following the alleged attack.
“An IT contractor who was dismissed last week trespassed into the museum and shut down several of our systems,” a museum spokesperson said. “We are working hard to get the museum back to being fully operational but with regret our temporary exhibitions have been closed today and will remain so over the weekend – ticket holders have been alerted and refunds offered.”
The Metropolitan Police force stated officers responded to reports that a man had entered the British Museum and damaged the museum’s security and IT systems. It said a man in his 50’s was arrested on suspicion of burglary and criminal damage. He has been released on bail as the inquiry continues.
The 266-year-old museum has also faced some of the major challenges in recent years. It is still trying to recover more than 1,800 items that are believed to have been stolen by a former curator and placed for online sale. Peter Higgs, who served in the museum’s Greece and Rome department for 30 years, was fired in July 2023 and is being sued by the organization. He denies the accusations.
The Museum director Hartwig Fischer, who resigned in August 2023, accepted that the institution’s management had not taken the alerts seriously and had ignored warnings that items such as gold jewelry, semi-precious gems and ancient artifacts dating back to the 15th century B.C were being stolen from the collection and sold on eBay.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
The authorities in India-occupied Jammu and Kashmir were investigating a mysterious disease that has caused the deaths of 17 people, local media reports said on Saturday.The deaths, including those of 13 children, occurred in the remote village of Badhaal, Rajouri, in the Jammu area since early December. The village was declared a containment zone earlier this week, with approximately 230 people quarantinedthe Press Trust of India (PTI) news agency reported.
Amarjeet Singh Bhatia, who heads Rajouri’s government medical college, stated that all casualties had damage to the brain and nervous system. “The winter vacations have also been cancelled to address the medical alert situation,” PTI quoted Bhatia. >According to the latest news, the federal government has launched an investigation, with Health Minister Jitendra Singh saying that an initial probe suggests the deaths were “not due to any infection, virus, or bacteria, but rather a toxin.” Read More: Pakistan, Azerbaijan Agree to Boost Bilateral Ties in Trade
“There is a long series of toxins being tested. I believe a solution will be found soon. Additionally, if there was any mischief or malicious activity, that is also being investigated,” PTI quoted Singh. >In another medical incident, the authorities in the western city of Pune recorded at least 73 cases of a rare nerve disease. Those infected with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) include 26 women.
14 of the patients are on ventilator support, PTI quoted an official. As per the World Health Organisation, in GBS, a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. The syndrome can affect nerves that control muscle movement, potentially leading to muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the legs or arms, and difficulty swallowing and breathing.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the schedule for the much-awaited tri-series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa. The series, running from February 8 to 14, will follow a single-league format, with matches hosted at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
The opening game will pit Pakistan against New Zealand on February 8 in Lahore, with the match starting at 2 pm local time. New Zealand will face South Africa on February 10 in a day game beginning at 9:30 am. The series will then shift to Karachi, where Pakistan will meet South Africa on February 12 in a day-night clash. The final will be held on February 14, starting at 2 pm.
As part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, PCB has upgraded its venues. Gaddafi Stadium now boasts increased seating capacity, 480 LED lights, new chairs and two digital replay screens. Similarly, the National Bank Stadium has seen the installation of 350 LED lights, 5,000 new chairs and a new hospitality enclosure.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan’s Minister for Defence Industry, Vugar Mustafayev, held discussions in Islamabad to strengthen ties between the two nations. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, energy, defence and investment. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral collaboration for mutual benefit.
Mustafayev’s visit coincided with the 8th Session of the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Joint Ministerial Commission, co-chaired by Khawaja Muhammad Asif. The session concluded with agreements to implement the Azerbaijan-Pakistan Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and explore joint ventures in defence and energy. Key projects include an MoU for defence hardware production and a strategic underground gas storage initiative.
Agriculture was another focus, with both countries agreeing to collaborate on cotton research, grain cultivation and seed development. Business-to-business exchanges in agricultural commodities were also encouraged. Cooperation in health was emphasized, including diagnostics, medical tourism, and research.
The two sides committed to creating new joint working groups for future advancements and confirmed the 9th Joint Commission Session will take place in Baku in 2027. Minister Asif highlighted how high-level exchanges have bolstered ties across multiple sectors, including energy, defence and trade.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Air is reportedly set to feature a major design shift. According to leaks, the slimline device will include a camera bar running across the rear. This elongated module will hold a single lens, a flash and a microphone cutout, mimicking the design seen in Google’s Pixel series. The aesthetic marks a significant departure for Apple, offering a fresh look for their flagship model.
Another big change comes with Apple Intelligence, a generative AI suite set to become the default setting for compatible devices. This integration will roll out with macOS Sequoia 15.3, iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3. Users can disable the feature later, but it highlights Apple’s commitment to AI-driven tools like machine learning and natural language processing to enhance user experiences.
Despite these innovations, Apple faces challenges in China. Recent data from Counterpoint Research shows iPhone sales dropped by 18.2% in Q4 2024, reducing Apple’s market share to 17.1%. Local brands like Huawei and Xiaomi have surpassed Apple with 18.1% and 17.2% shares, respectively.
On a brighter note, Apple continues to expand its health features. The AirPods Pro 2 hearing test feature, already available in the US, will soon launch in the UK. After regulatory approval from the Department of Health and Social Care, Apple plans to release updated software enabling this feature in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
Google’s Gemini is becoming the next-gen virtual assistant to beat, and its competitors like Siri, Alexa and even ChatGPT are struggling to keep up. Gemini’s deep integration into Android devices and Google’s ecosystem is making it the default choice for millions of users, signalling a shift in how we interact with AI-powered assistants.
The Power of Integration
One of Gemini’s most significant advantages is its seamless integration. Unlike standalone AI apps such as ChatGPT or Claude, Gemini is embedded directly into devices and Google’s services. For instance, on Samsung’s latest phones, holding down the side button now activates Gemini instead of Samsung’s Bixby—a significant upgrade for users seeking a more capable assistant.
Source: The Verge
For integration, it transcends smartphone dimensions. The device now sits as core in Google Workspace, Gmail, Docs, YouTube, and Drive, bringing most workflows directly together. This ease of execution saves users more input on tedious tasks from this device. Due to such power and availability, Gemini is undoubtedly light years ahead of its closest counterparts.
Distribution = Winning
Its strategy relies on its enormous user base. For Gemini, user data is not only a tool but a feature in the lives of billions. Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO, put it nicely: “All seven of our products and platforms with more than two billion monthly users use Gemini models.” This phenomenal reach feeds vast user data that fuels rapid improvements and further reifies its lead.
While competitors like OpenAI’s ChatGPT have strong foundational models, they lack Gemini’s ubiquity. AI assistants that require separate apps and logins are at a disadvantage compared to Gemini’s one-click accessibility.
Source: Tech Radar
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Gemini is not without its weaknesses. Like any other AI system, it sometimes produces errors or nonsensical responses. However, Google’s ability to iterate quickly and its tight integration with Android gives it an edge. Unlike Siri, which cannot adapt, or Alexa, which has experienced delays in updates, Gemini is constantly evolving.
As the AI era unfolds, the most entrenched assistant in users’ daily routines will win. Google’s playbook, which is based on distribution, integration, and data-driven improvement, is working well. Gemini is not only competing in the AI assistant space but is redefining it. For now, Google’s approach to virtual assistants seems nearly insurmountable.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
Japan’s central bank has raised borrowing costs to their highest point in 17 years, following a surge in consumer prices in December. The Bank of Japan (BOJ) has adjusted its short-term policy rate to “approximately 0.5 per cent.” This measure came shortly after new economic data revealed that prices increased at the highest rate in 16 months last month. The BOJ’s previous interest rate increase in July, coupled with a disappointing jobs report from the United States, surprised global investors and led to a selloff in the stock market.
Governor Kazuo Ueda had previously indicated that this latest rate hike would mitigate the risk of another market disruption. Official statistics released on Friday indicated that core consumer prices in Japan rose by 3% in December compared to the same month the previous year. This decision represents the BOJ’s first rate increase since July, which occurred just days after Donald Trump resumed his presidency. During his campaign, Trump threatened to impose tariffs on all imports to the US, which could affect exporting nations like Japan.
By increasing rates now, the bank aims to create more flexibility to lower rates in the future to stimulate the economy. This action underscores the central bank’s intention to gradually raise rates to around 1%. The BOJ has indicated that interest rates will continue to rise from their historically low levels. Neil Newman, head of strategy at Astris Advisory Japan, stated, “Rates will continue to rise as wages increase, inflation remains above 2%, and there is some growth in the economy.” Stefan Angrick, a Japan economist at Moody’s Analytics, added, “We anticipate another 25-basis point increase in six months.” Last year, the BOJ raised borrowing costs for the first time since 2007, ending a prolonged period of low rates as the country faced stagnant price growth. This increase eliminated the last remaining countries with negative interest rates, a situation where individuals must pay to deposit money in banks.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
On International Education Day, we honour the remarkable contributions of Pakistani women in academia. Despite societal challenges, these women have made significant strides in education, research, and leadership, inspiring future generations. They stand before us, proving that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. They are role models and inspirations for every Pakistani girl who dreams big.
Dr. Nergis Mavalvala
Dr. Nergis Mavalvala is a Pakistani-American astrophysicist. She has garnered international acclaim for her groundbreaking work in gravitational wave detection. As a key member of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) team, she played a pivotal role in the first observation of gravitational waves in 2015. This was a discovery that confirmed a major prediction of Einstein’s general theory of relativity. Beyond her research, Dr. Mavalvala serves as the Dean of the MIT School of Science, where she continues to inspire and mentor aspiring scientists.
MIT School Of Science Dean – Nergis Mavalvala
Dr. Salima Hashmi
Dr. Salima Hashmi is an esteemed artist, curator and educator who has significantly influenced Pakistan’s art and academic landscapes throughout her career. As the former principal of the National College of Arts in Lahore, she created innovative curricula and worked to promote a culture of creative expression. However, Dr. Hashmi’s contributions extend beyond academia. She is a prominent advocate for human rights and freedom of expression, using her art and voice to address social issues.
Dr. Mariam Sultana stands out as Pakistan’s first female astrophysicist. She earned her Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of Karachi in 2012. Now, she is an assistant professor at the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology. Her dedication to space sciences has paved the way for aspiring female scientists in Pakistan.
Mariam Sultana
Another notable figure is Dr. Afiya Shehrbano Zia, a feminist researcher and writer in Karachi. With a Ph.D. in Women and Gender Studies from the University of Toronto, she has extensively written on women’s rights, secularism and religion. Her work challenges societal norms and advocates for gender equality in Pakistan.
Afiya Shehrbano Zia
Despite these achievements, Pakistani women in academia face numerous obstacles. A study highlights that gender disparity perceptions often hinder women from demonstrating their capabilities, affecting their self-esteem and future ambitions. Programmes like the Pakistan Women Leadership in Higher Education aim to equip and empower women at different stages of faculty and leadership development.
On this International Education Day, we celebrate the resilience and achievements of Pakistani women in academia. Their contributions have not only enriched the educational landscape of our country but also inspired future generations to keep striving.
When you teach a man, you educate a man, but when you teach a woman, you educate a generation.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
The nominations for the 97th Academy Awards, better known as Oscars, are here, and Emilia Pérez leads with an impressive 13 nods. The film also made history, with Karla Sofía Gascón becoming the first transgender performer nominated for Best Actress. Other top contenders include The Brutalistand Wicked, each with 10 nominations, while A Complete Unknown and Conclave follow with eight.
Wicked: Simon Hayes, Nancy Nugent Title, Jack Dolman, Andy Nelson and John Marquis
The Wild Robot:Randy Thom, Brian Chumney, Gary A. Rizzo, and Leff Lefferts
Best Visual Effects
Alien: Romulus, Eric Barba, Nelson Sepulveda-Fauser, Daniel Macarin and Shane Mahan
Better Man: Luke Millar, David Clayton, Keith Herft and Peter Stubbs
Dune: Part Two: Paul Lambert, Stephen James, Rhys Salcombe, and Gerd Nefzer
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes: Erik Winquist, Stephen Unterfranz, Paul Stor,y and Rodney Burke
Wicked: Pablo Helman, Jonathan Fawkner, David Shirk and Paul Corbould
Dune 2; Visual Effects
Notable Mentions and Snubs
First-time nominees in the Best Supporting Actor category include Yura Borisov (Anora), Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) and Jeremy Strong (The Apprentice). In the Best Supporting Actress category, Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) and Ariana Grande (Wicked) lead the buzz. However, Selena Gomez’s absence in this category has stirred conversations, given her recognition at the BAFTAs and Golden Globes for Emilia Pérez.
Behind the Scenes
Technical achievements also shine this year. Wicked garnered nominations for Best Production Design, Visual Effects, and Makeup. Dune: Part Two stands out in categories like Cinematography and Visual Effects. Meanwhile, The Brutalist dominates with nods for Best Directing and Film Editing.
As excitement builds, the Oscars Academy has also pledged to spotlight wildfire relief efforts during the ceremony, scheduled for March 2.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
The biographical film Motorcycle Girl, directed by Adnan Sarwar, will open the Pakistan Film Festival in Jordan. The film tells the inspiring story of Zenith Irfan, the first Pakistani woman to travel solo on a motorcycle. The festival will be held from January 24 to 26 at the Rainbow Theatre in Amman.
The Royal Film Commission of Jordan and the Pakistan Embassy in Jordan are behind the festival. The three films showcased will showcase a variety of Pakistani talent and storytelling.
Source: Dawn Images
Films That Emphasise Empowerment
Motorcycle Girl is a film based on the real-life story of Zenith Irfan, a 20-year-old girl who travelled solo through Pakistan’s northern areas. The film celebrates her fight against societal norms.
The festival will also feature Nayab a sports drama by Yumna Zaidi and Usama Khan. The film is about a young woman trying to prove herself to Pakistan’s national cricket team.
Bin Roye, a romantic drama starring Mahira Khan and Humayun Saeed, will also be screened. The film is based on Farhat Ishtiaq’s novel and portrays love, heartbreak, and resilience.
The three films will be screened in Urdu, and the subtitles will be in English. To cater to a larger audience, Motorcycle Girl and Nayab will contain Arabic subtitles.
The festival showcases Pakistani cinema on the world map. It shares inspiring stories such as Zenith Irfan’s journey, bringing it to everyone beyond Pakistan.
Source: Newsline
Promotion of Pakistani Cinema
The Pakistan Film Festival in Jordan is a proud moment for the country’s film industry. The presentation of these films will bring international attention to Pakistan’s creativity and talent. It is one step towards strengthening Pakistani cinema on a global level.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
Two-time Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer is to arrive in Saudi Arabia and create a reimagined version of the kingdom’s national anthem. The project is part of a larger cultural initiative by Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority. It aims to celebrate Saudi heritage and position the kingdom as a hub for world artistic innovation.
Source: Turkeiye Today
Al-Sheikh recently posted on X, extolling Zimmer as “one of the greatest musicians of the modern age.” Along with redoing the anthem, Zimmer will discuss composing a piece called Arabia, influenced by the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. This would include all the historical characteristics of the kingdom.
Cultural Extent
That is not all Zimmer might be involved in, as plans for a massive concert for Riyadh Season are also up for discussion. The festival celebrates global cultures and hosts music performances, boxing matches and exhibitions of international crafts. Zimmer’s participation would give the festival a global profile and highlight the kingdom’s growing emphasis on cultural exchange.
Other juicy prospects include Zimmer onboarding the soon-to-be-released soundtrack of the new Saudi film The Battle of Yarmouk. This highlights Saudi Arabia’s significant commitment to developing state-of-the-art filmmaking.
A Global Visionary
Zimmer’s appreciation for cultural melting is quite in line with Saudi Arabia’s vision of putting its heritage on the world stage. The composer, who has received 12 Oscar nominations and two wins for The Lion King and Dune, has always been an advocate for diversity in art.
Source: Minie World
Speaking ahead of a Dubai Opera performance last year, Zimmer emphasised the transformative power of cultural collaboration. “Now we have a multitude of voices contributing to film from across the world – from the Middle East as well. I love that I’m in a world of dreamers,” he remarked.
As Saudi Arabia undergoes a cultural renaissance, collaborations with global icons like Hans Zimmer underscore its dedication to blending tradition with modernity.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25841889/Samsung_Unpacked_Gemini_Live.png)
