NADRA Introduces ‘Biker Service’ And Here’s What You Need To Know

-

Sep 2, 2022

Study Shows You Maybe 'Aging' Faster Than You Think - Here's Why — Image Source: AsiaOne

A new study has changed the way we look at screens (pun intended) and it is worth a read. Scientists have discovered that the blue lights from screens may be the cause of aging faster and reduced cognitive abilities. Concerned yet? Here’s everything you need to know:

What Is The Study?

According to a recent study, excessive blue light from electronic devices like cellphones, computers, and televisions can accelerate aging. Researchers discovered that exposure to light may potentially also increase the chances of developing obesity and psychiatric issues.

study aging faster — Image Source: Inverse

The press release said, “Excessive exposure to blue light from everyday devices, such as TVs, laptops, and phones, may have detrimental effects on a wide range of cells in our body.” This study is the first to demonstrate that fruit flies exposed to blue light have changed amounts of certain metabolites, molecules necessary for proper cell activity.

Fruit Flies Experiment

Fruit flies were used in the experiment. The research team found that the light from screens had an impact on them too and it was the same for humans. This is important since there are cellular similarities between humans and flies therefore, they were a good test subject.

The scientists examined the amounts of metabolites in flies exposed to blue light for two weeks. The control group was kept in full darkness to better understand why high-energy blue light fastens aging in fruit flies.

What Was Found?

The team found that the cells in fruit flies don’t function optimally after exposure. They started facing premature death. An examination of the cells in the flies’ brains revealed that the levels of one metabolite, succinate, increased, while glutamate levels dropped.

Here’s more information. Succinate is essential for producing the fuel for the function and growth of each cell. High levels of succinate after exposure to blue light is like gas being in the pump but not getting into the car. Moreover, another concerning discovery was that molecules responsible for communication between neurons, such as glutamate, are at a lower level after blue light exposure. This means reduced brain function after exposure to blue light.

What To Do?

The study has so far said that further research needs to be done on this. Until then, they recommend that you avoid excessive use of blue light.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

How Is Technology Contributing To Sustainability?

By

-

Sep 2, 2022

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, but an environmental, economic and social driver that’s changing our day-to-day lives in almost every way imaginable.

This is obvious throughout the business community in which committing to sustainable practices is no longer a ‘nice to have but a ‘must do’ as the negative impacts of climate change become more obvious and ominous, with the potential to alter everything from supply chains to profitability.

Sustainability requires transformation and most organizations are discovering how to consolidate new technologies and new measures to proceed with their social-ecological development and framework. Technology is shaping sustainability and enabling advanced levels of productivity and efficiency.

Transportation

The environmental impacts of transportation are expected to increase as the demand for travel rises, which is influenced by several factors including population and economic growth, urban sprawl, and low fuel prices. But just as the transportation sector’s environmental impact is substantial, so, too, is its opportunity to improve.

The role technological advancements can play here is vast, ranging from a more sophisticated electric vehicle infrastructure to tools for improved fleet maintenance, fuel efficiency and routing to the mainstream use of autonomous vehicles

Digital Products & Services

Digital operations can improve business resilience; some of the processes and technologies involved even become industry standards. Schneider Electric transformed itself from an installer of industrial electrical equipment to a global leader in efficiency-as-a-service, generating revenues by reducing customers’ CO2 emissions.

Sustainability — Image source: digiinternational.com

Artificial Intelligence & Analytics

These technologies can generate data and insights on the environmental and social impact of a product, service, or process. Digital platforms can further integrate capabilities while sharing data and create transparency and accountability among partners.

Plastic Recycling

Plastic recycling has been the focus of industrialists and generally aware people. However, none of it comes at the expense of environmental hazards.

The plastics industry has the opportunity now to adopt a circular model, which aims to eliminate waste across sectors while creating economic, societal, and environmental benefits. One promising circular process is pyrolysis, which uses heat and the absence of oxygen to reconvert plastic waste back into liquid feedstock. The benefits are economic as much as environmental, with a recycling-based profit pool estimated at $55 billion by the next decade.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Study Shows 4 In 5 Millennial Men Are Insecure About Their Looks

By

-

Sep 2, 2022

A survey of 2,000 men across all generations looks into how they deal with natural changes to their appearance that come with ageing. It showed that most millennial men who have grey hair worry that it makes them look older 70%, and another 42% are concerned about others’ opinions, specifically that they’d be seen as less attractive with grey hair.

The results suggest that men, on average, feel insecure about their looks three times a week, worrying about factors like their weight 37% and how their eyes look 22%.

The Loreal Poll

Conducted by OnePoll in partnership with L’Oreal Paris, the survey found that more than half of American men sometimes feel insecure about their overall looks 56%. Millennials feel the most self-conscious about their physical appearance 78% followed by 62% of Gen-Z and 55% of Gen-X.

While nearly 64% of respondents like their overall natural look, 56% said they feel less confident when they’re not looking their best.

Grey Hair & Millennials

One of the top concerns for millennials 34% and Gen-X men 39% is going grey. The factor also contributes to the pressure to look younger than they are which was admitted by 45% of men.

“The physical, outward signs of ageing can be an emotional journey,” says Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, L’Oreal Paris international spokesperson, in a statement.

“We are all on our paths and embracing the process can mean many things – for example, some may feel confident and empowered by going completely grey, whereas others feel the same way about applying hair dye. Ultimately it’s important to be the best you can be, at any age, and only you can define that for yourself.”

According to the data, more than a third of respondents spend almost an hour a day trying to look their best 36%. Gen-X and millennials are the most likely among those.

The priority of looking and feeling best varies across the generations. Gen-Z prioritises showering 48% and picking out nice clothes 39%. Meanwhile, baby boomers shave 34% and style their hair 33% to get that extra boost of confidence.

“As a barber and colourist, I see first-hand the impact that appearance can have on one’s confidence,” said barber Rob McMillan.

“Men are often overlooked in this aspect, but in reality, they can just as impacted by women. If my clients choose to cover their greys, I always encourage them to make sure it’s coming from within and not because they feel pressured by external factors.”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Jazz shines at GSMA Mobile 360 Asia Pacific

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

Pakistan’s leading digital operator has won the Digital Nation Video Creativity Award at the GSMA Mobile 360 Asia Pacific organized recently in Singapore.

The Digital Nations Award encompasses the contribution of mobile technology in driving the digital transformation of nations. Videos from 11 countries were received, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

Sharing his thoughts Asif Aziz, Chief Commercial Officer, Jazz said, “We believe in developing an inclusive digital ecosystem where connectivity benefits are equally distributed regardless of gender, race or any other division. The #SuperForChange campaign showcases how digital enablement can positively impact the lives of a marginalized community. We are also thankful to GSMA for this recognition.”

Julian Gorman, Head of Asia Pacific, GSMA, said, “The Digital Nation Video Creativity Award recognises how mobile technology delivers digital transformation for societal benefit. Building sustainable Digital Nation strategies requires inclusive access to the digital ecosystem and we commend Jazz for their #SuperForChange campaign and the video that tells the story of how 4G provided the platform to elevate people’s voices on discrimination.”

Watch the #SuperforChange campaign video here:

Google pledges Rs 110 million in support for flood victims

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

Millions of Pakistanis are experiencing the worst torrential rains and floods in the country’s history. The disastrous floods on top of the ongoing pandemic are wreaking havoc in the county. People have been left homeless and stranded in flood-hit areas.

During this time of the disaster, Google.org will donate US$500,000K (110 Million PKR) through its philanthropic arm to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, which will be made to the sub-grants to the local organisations that are actively engaged in crisis response and recovery. In addition to this, Google employees are also donating at this critical time. In just a few days, employees have already contributed more than PKR 72 Million in personal donations and company matches

Google aims to extend its support by taking initiative to gather donations and funds for flood affectees to help fellow citizens spending their lives in the midst of destruction. Google will continue to find more ways to help the flood victims.

PUBG MOBILE CONCLUDES THE BIGGEST LAN EVENT OF PAKISTAN AT GRAND FINALE OF CAMPUS CHALLENGE TOURNAMENT

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

PUBG MOBILE Pakistan, the country’s No. 1 gaming platform, has pulled off a truly one-of-its-kind esports event in the form of PUBG MOBILE Campus Challenge (PMCC), bringing thousands of students from across the nation to compete for a Grand Prize of PKR 4 million.

Lieutenant-General (ret.) Syed Arif Hasan, President, Pakistan Olympic Association graced the event with his presence as the chief guest

This first-ever PMCC has revolutionised the esports industry in the country, providing students from different backgrounds a platform to showcase their repertoire of gaming skills and shine like the true global superstars that they dream of becoming. The Campus Challenge has done wonders in terms of the overall experience for the dynamic PUBG MOBILE community, and the empowerment of young students from across the nation, for their parents and teachers to witness.

After an exhilarating first few rounds of qualifiers from a total of 42 campuses across Pakistan, the top 16 teams made their way to the Grand Final where they competed against each other in a euphoric atmosphere with a number of esports social media influencers attending the grand event such as the incomparable Arslan Ash – the current champion in Street Fighter and Tekken – along with highly talented PUBGM players, including 47 Khalifa, Jay Plays and STAR Anonymous.

Maintaining their resolve during the epic proceedings and swiftly eliminating the competition, Team NB9 Sports, consisting of Ibtassam, Malik Ameer Hamza, Umair and Sohail Hassan, emerged victorious to claim the Grand Prize of PKR 4 million. Thus, PMCC Pakistan has paved the way for empowerment of students and exposed them to a thrilling prospect of uplifting not only themselves, but their families as well.

The highly-anticipated event also attracted familiar faces such as Hania Amir, Amna Ilyas, Junaid Khan and Imran Abbas to witness the unfolding of a new age in the esports industry of Pakistan. Furthermore, the closing ceremony included an exciting performance by the uber popular Young Stunners for the esports enthusiasts in attendance.

Khawar Naeem, Country Head Pakistan, Tencent Games said “PUBG MOBILE Pakistan is truly fostering the local esports Ecosystem through such campaigns and the unconditional support of Pakistan Olympics Committee is a testimony to our efforts. Such an event is our promise to the PUBGM community that as a brand, we will always be empowering the youth and our emerging esports players”

With PMCC, PUBG MOBILE Pakistan is excited to witness the birth of a new generation of young gamers with all the resources at their disposal to take the industry by storm

realme’s Ultimate 828 Fan Fest Celebration Culminates in a Beachside Music Party for Loyal Fans

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

realme, being one of the most popular brand of the Gen Z marked its 4^th anniversary celebrations with a fun-filled musical party at Fan Fest 828. realme music party was attended by its loyal fans, celebrities and lifestyle media at Turtle beach Karachi. With its “Keep It Real” brand philosophy, realme Fan Fest is a celebration of the brand to stay connected with its loyal fans community that continues to support the brand. Every year realme welcomes the month of August with the comeback of their annual Fan Fest. The most anticipated realme Fan Fest was filled with exciting activities lined up for fans to enjoy. Team realme also took the opportunity to announce the winner of the super fan award at the event.

On realme’s very first Music Party at the ocean side, the stage came alive with musical performance by Youth Icon Shamoon Ismail and DJ Hussain Dossa. Truly embodying the saying “Music brings people together” the performances ended with the fans gathering on stage matching to the dancing beat. Aside from the thrilling concert event, the realme fan squad also got a chance to enjoy an experience zone which let them try out realme’s products, realme cocktail hub, photo booth, and a wide selection of buffet items.

Pakistan’s hip celebrities like Saboor Aly, Ali Ansari, Nabeel Zuberi, Adeel Chaudhry and Nimra Khan joined realme fans to enjoy the party to make moments memorable. Team realme did a special announcement of Super Fan Award which was won by Alisha Zaidi for showing her consistent loyalty towards the brand.

Making event a great success for fans, activities concluded with amazing never seen before special Fireworks. Fans were highly appreciative of realme for providing this experience to them until next 828 where they hope to bring something else new and exciting because realme always comes with new and exciting entertaining ideas for their fans.

Undoubtedly, there is always more to “Keep it real” than one could think of, it signifies how far realme has travelled, now providing a platform for the youth to take a leap and explore their passion. The message stands still- to be able to establish an unbreakable bond with its users, making them the true brand ambassadors.

Here’s How Cadbury Is Encouraging People To Learn Sign Language

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

cadbury sign language — Image Source: Youtube

Cadbury has always been crowd-favorite chocolate however, now they not only have won more hearts but they’re widening their consumer base. They have created a special campaign in which they highlight the struggles of the deaf. Have a look at what it’s all about and why it’s the best thing you’ll see today!

What’s Going On?

The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) and Cadbury Fingers have teamed together for a special campaign. The newest instalment of the “For Fingers Big and Small” campaign includes something for deaf people. The motive was to make deaf individuals feel more included, “Sign with Fingers Big and Small”. The main call to action in it is that Cadbury wants to inspire us all to learn some British Sign Language (BSL).

What Is In The Short Film?

In the short film, viewers can see a young girl explaining to the camera in BSL that she frequently feels left out of conversations because she is deaf. To convey this to us, some of the subtitled words on the screen are hidden. This underlines the girl’s frustrations and feelings of loneliness as when we can not understand what she is saying, we too get frustrated.

This shows that often when we have people of any disability around us, we often forget their presence. We continue being the way that we are without considering that not everybody interacts the same way. In this case, not everybody speaks and hears the same way. Thus, the solution to a more tolerable, understanding, and encouraging society is to learn sign language too.

The Project of Cadbury

In order to help the project, Cadbury Fingers collaborated with Rebecca A. Withey, a writer, and consultant who is deaf. They also brought in a panel made up of members of the deaf community. The “Dinner Table Syndrome,” a condition where deaf persons are unintentionally left out of shared everyday discussions, had an impact on the 30-second commercial.

Because they were behind the making of this ad, the short film came out so brilliantly and is sensitive too. What do you think: have you observed the dinner table syndrome around you?

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Why Are Brands Opting For Simpler Logos?

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

brands simpler logos — Image Source: Storybox Collective

Brands are now turning towards a particular kind of logos that are interesting to look at and also holistically very similar. What’s with the minimal logos? The clean colours, cuts, and flattened features are giving rise to the ‘minimal’ logo age and many brands have started following suit. Kellogg’s is one of them, read about why!

So, What Happened?

A while back, Julie’s Biscuits unveiled its new logo just after Pringles changed its identity. Besides those, many other businesses and products have flattened their logo elements too. The colour elements have become simplified. People are also noticing a reduction in intricate features and an increase in the usage of white space.

Should Brand Designers Consider This?

This trend is definitely one that brand designers should consider considering the day and age. Recently, for the first time in 20 years, Kellogg has updated the Pringles logo and packaging. They want to “showcase his new spectrum of emotions”.

How Did Kellogg’s Change?

For one, the well-groomed brown mustache of Mr. Pringles is now a black vector mustache. His chip-shaped face’s contour is gone, and his hair is replaced with black eyebrows. The Pringles cans have also been streamlined. Each flavor has its own background with separate solid colors and the chip and flavor images are less elaborate than before.

The reason behind this is that flattening Mr. Pringles’ distinctive characteristics makes the consumer pay more attention to the chips pictured on the cans. They can be appealed by the flavour.

How The Change Matters?

Previously, there was a time when complicated effects were common twenty years ago. Filters, gradients, transparency, lighting effects, 3D rendering, and intricate typefaces may all be added to a visual with only one click. Utilizing these meant a company was showing its cutting-edge skills and technological capability as a result.

However, these effects are now considered “retro” and “historical.” Such effects are already overused, and there is already too much visual data to process. The change in the logo and the cans now focus the attention only to the actual product rather than the branding. It helps people remember the product and engage with it better.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

How Climate Change Is Making Infectious Diseases Worse

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

The disastrous effects of climate change have started to become more and more evident in recent years. A failure to slow global warming isn’t only affecting the environment but also giving rise to many deadly diseases. The meticulous expansion of these diseases is putting the health of millions of people at risk.

Climate change is widespread, rapid, and intensifying. People have lost homes due to unprecedented floods and fires, heat-related illnesses are on the rise and our food systems are increasingly at risk.

While these extreme events are proving disastrous for humans, they’re providing the perfect environment for many infectious diseases to thrive.

Climate Change & Diseases

The research was carried out by a team at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and published in Nature Climate Change, a peer-reviewed scientific journal. Researchers analyzed how 10 different climate emergencies, for instance, heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires impact hundreds of infectious diseases. The study concluded that 58% of diseases have been exacerbated by climate change. These include Dengue, Hepatitis, Pneumonia, Malaria, Zika, and Anthrax, to name a few.

“It was truly scary to discover the massive health vulnerability resulting as a consequence of greenhouse gas emissions,” said Camilo Mora, a professor at the University of Hawaii and the lead author of the study.

Diseases Due To Climate Change

1. Vector Borne Diseases

As climate change alters temperatures and weather patterns around the world, the risk of vector-borne diseases like Dengue Fever and Zika Virus will increase. A vector is a living organism – like a tick or mosquito – that transmits an infectious agent from an infected animal to a human or another animal. Torrential rains and flooding of the standing water lead to the development of flies, ticks, and mosquitoes.

2. Water Borne Diseases

Waterborne diseases like Cholera and Typhoid are still the leading cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide. As climate change increasingly impacts global temperatures and weather events, the risk of these infectious diseases will only worsen.

3. Food Borne Diseases

Foodborne diseases are caused by eating or drinking something unsafe, such as unpasteurised (raw) milk, undercooked or parasite-infected meat, or raw fruits and vegetables that are contaminated with faeces from an infected animal or person.

The WHO estimates that in 2010, there were 600 million foodborne illnesses and 420,000 associated deaths. And climate change is increasing the risk.

According to a report without swift climate action, we will see an escalation of infectious diseases. They will spread to new regions (and may decline in some endemic areas). They’ll surge in areas where they were previously under control. And diseases that have never previously infected humans may spill over from animals.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

5 Photography Tricks To Capture Beautiful Sunsets Using Your Phone

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

There’s nothing quite like a sunset. The sun slowly disappearing below the horizon is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the natural world. You might not be an artist but the quest of clicking scenic views will make you want to become one. However, sunset photography is not as easy as you might think and its glory doesn’t always translate into stunning sunset photos.

So, today, we’ve gathered our favourite tips to help you capture stunning sunset photographs.

1. Plan Your Views

Sunsets only take a few minutes, which is why you want to think about these elements before the sunset begins. Otherwise, you might miss the best shots. Find out when the sun will set, then arrive at least half an hour beforehand. It’s often in the lead-up to a sunset that the real magic happens.

Photography — Image source: Pinterest.com

2. Take Raw Pictures

With the raw format, you can change the white balance, which is the balance of colors in your image. Shooting in raw mode will easily translate the majority of the details, which can be done on your smartphone, you can more easily manipulate the colours in photo editing programs like Adobe Lightroom.

3. Use Burst Mode

Subjects in motion can tell a great story. Including motion in your sunset shot can add some excitement to the image. The challenge is to capture just the right moment as your subject speeds by.

One easy way to ensure you capture the ideal moment is to use your phone’s camera burst mode. Hold your finger down on the shutter to take multiple photos over a few seconds. As your subject passes by, you’ll capture many different images from which you can choose.

4. Take Multiple Exposures

The beauty of a sunset is created, in part, by extreme contrasts of light and darkness. How do you expose yourself to both the sun and the surrounding landscape?

Using the HDR photo feature in the camera app allows you to improve exposure in a scene that has a wide range of light.

5. Foreground Element

Ideally, the sunset itself isn’t the only element in the photo. You might have captured the colors beautifully, but without a foreground element, there won’t be much lasting impact. A strong foreground element will add interest, depth and context to your image. Almost anything can be used rocks, people, a pier, a cityscape or just about anything.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Pakistanis Are Calling Out Maryam Nawaz For Copying Angelina Jolie

By

-

Sep 1, 2022

maryam nawaz angelina jolie — Image Source: Twitter

Maryam Nawaz recently went to visit the victims of floods in Pakistan. The politician made sure to share the details and pictures with her following on Twitter. However, the reporting went sideways as people started drawing comparisons between her and Angelina Jolie.

Here’s what’s happening:

Maryam Nawaz’s Meeting

Maryam Nawaz went to South Punjab with full protocol to meet the flood victims. In the pictures she shared, she is seen with those who are displaced. From the old, the young to the children, she is seen sitting with all and hearing their concerns.

The pictures show her hugging these people, especially women. Her caption on Twitter read, “heart-wrenching.”

Heart wrenching ❤️‍🩹 pic.twitter.com/qVDyGkqToQ

— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) August 29, 2022

What Happened In The Replies?

People on Twitter did not hold back from voicing their thoughts. They called Marya, Nawaz out for treating this as a photo-op and trying to replicate Angelina Jolie. Many also posted pictures of them side by side to show that the politician was trying to channel the English actress’ iconic look.

Maryam Nawaz has posted a DP of hugging this woman. Listen to the woman’s comments
Angelina Jolie #بغیرت_بڈھی #پاکستان_کےغدار_بے_نقاب #عمران_خان_ٹیلی_تھون_مہم #Thankyou_UAE #سیلاب_زدگان_مددکےمنتظر #FloodReliefFund2022 #PMReliefFund pic.twitter.com/Ux8A45PuUZ

— 𝑲𝒉𝒊𝒛𝒆𝒓 𝑯𝒂𝒚𝒂𝒕 𝑨𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏 (@Khizerh786) August 30, 2022

Cheap third class copy of #AngelinaJolie are roaming around in Pakistan. The whole family is desperately trying to be british. Shame on her. #MaryamNawaz went to met flood affected people of south Punjab with full protocol. Kuch to khuda ka khouf karain.#بغیرت_بڈھی pic.twitter.com/cN3VXkHS9S

— Zartaj Rathore (@RathoreZartaj) August 29, 2022

#MaryamNawaz’s protocol/calvacade comprising 63 cars for photo ops in #Taunsa is shameless & shows the complexes of the woman & #Sharifs that come with the looted & plundered money not hard earned or inherited. On the top of she doesn’t hold any public office. #FloodsInPakistan

— Saima Khan (@cymakhan0) August 29, 2022

Can’t believe she spent crores of rupees on official protocol just to have a photo shoot like Angelina Jolie with the flood victims.

That’s very unfortunate indeed to keep feeding such dirty elite on taxpayers’ money.#عمران_خان_ٹیلی_تھون_مہم @PTIofficial pic.twitter.com/wFCeqjviUn

— PK 🇵🇰 (@ShahidNadeem_PK) August 29, 2022

They pretend in front of people that they care.But people don’t know that he is just doing politics. #MaryamNawaz #PTIOfficial #ImportedGovernment pic.twitter.com/PF8sdZM8eq

— Jahangir Moughal official (@JahangirZM) August 29, 2022

More Details

The politician was dressed in a black shalwar kameez and that says a lot about the occasion. Nawaz was also accompanied by her husband Captain Safdar and other party leaders. However, what really concerns a lot of individuals is that there were 60 security cars.

People are calling out Maryam Nawaz for coming to this area but still choosing to come with a protocol. Moreover, so many people have gone and helped but putting it online for theh public to see isn’t always done. Maryam Nawaz is being critiqued for these actions precisely.

Read more: Blue Therapy: Here’s How It Can Help Boost Mental Health

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Online gaming can rope in massive dividends for Pakistan, experts suggest

By

-

Aug 31, 2022

A conference on the economic scope of the gaming industry in Pakistan organized by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (PASHA), with support from Tencent, took place in Islamabad today. Conference panelists discussed the viability and potential of gaming and animation contributing to the overall IT and ITeS exports of Pakistan and, thus, facilitating the economic growth of the country. Conversations centered around where Pakistan’s gaming industry stood at the moment and what were the challenges that needed to be addressed in order to move forward towards a substantial growth trajectory in the coming years

Discussing the potential of Pakistan’s gaming sector, Lih Shiun, Tencent’s Senior Director for Public Affairs, added “Pakistan’s IT industry is active in the mobile gaming industry, and is well poised to capture the immense opportunities the global video games industry brings. Apart from direct economic impact through jobs and economic output, video games also generate secondary economic value for Pakistan, such as through eSports and digital games related events like the current PUBGM campus championship. With video game-related technologies increasingly being used in other sectors and areas such as industrial design and cultural heritage promotion and protection, you can see how much potential there is for Pakistan’s video gaming sector”

“Pakistan potentially has access to a $90 billion dollar mobile gaming industry alone” Chairman PASHA, Badar Khushnood articulated. “According to an informal estimate Pakistani consumers have spent $ 260 million on video games through e-commerce. Game makers in Pakistan typically produce mobile games for a global audience. Most of the games are published by international game giants like Electronic Arts (EA) Inc., Ubisoft, Lion Studios and Supersonic Software. If supported with the right policies, the gaming sector can spur economic growth in Pakistan.” he added

Other notable speakers briefed on the need to promote talent development in programing and game designing. The fact that gaming is a promising industry–revenue generation can go upto $400m annually– ease of doing business has to be ensured. The discussion also covered other aspects such as policy interventions, investments required to spur the growth, and technical infrastructure requirement, etc.

The event was attended by stakeholders from the government, gaming studios, game developers, entrepreneurs, freelancers as well as telecom operators.

Juhi Chawla Spotted in Karachi: Picture Goes Viral

By

-

Aug 31, 2022

Earlier the day, veteran Bollywood actress Juhi Chawla was spotted in Karachi and the residents are excited to catch the glimpse of this gorgeous actress.

Juhi Chawla took to her social media accounts and told her fans and followers that she went for lunch to the Boat Club with her family and friends.

The actress has also watched the recently released Pakistani rom-com “Jawani Phir Nahin Ani 2” and praised it for its plot.

Isn’t it exciting that such celebrities are actually taking out their time to watch our movies? Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2 is a wonderful film that is doing well in cinemas alongside Load Wedding and Parwaaz Hai Junoon.

She shared the picture with the caption:

In Karachi, out for lunch to the Boat Club with family friends… and then to the movies …a delightful Pakistani romcom ‘Jawani Phir Nahin Ani’ … which coincidentally had a full Indian girl/ Pakistani boy love story.

In Karachi, out for lunch to the Boat Club with family friends… and then to the movies …a delightful Pakistani romcom 'Jawani Phir Nahin Ani' … which coincidentally had a full Indian girl/ Pakistani boy love story 💕💕🤩🤩🌟🌟🌟

A post shared by Juhi Chawla (@iamjuhichawla) on Aug 31, 2018 at 12:14am PDT

Her fans and followers from Pakistan were quick to welcome the Bollywood actress and have been pouring their love under her post.

Look at what people have to say!

Pakistanis actually have so much of respect and love for the actress!

And some people want the actress to visit other cities as well!

This is not the first time the actress has been enjoying the beauty of Pakistan. Juhi Chawla previously visited Karachi in 2013 and 2016 to attend family weddings.

Contributed by: Hira Ahmed

Google trained over 800 women developers under its Women Techmaker initiative

By

-

Aug 31, 2022

More than 800 women developers across Pakistan received training through a series of Women Techmakers sessions organized by Google this year. The events were held as part of celebrations for International Women’s Day (IWD), and covered important topics such as online safety, as well as coding and presentation skills.

The theme behind IWD this year is #ProgressNotPerfection, which seeks to celebrate the progress of women in all of its forms rather than holding on to preconceived notions of perfection and failure. In line with the theme, the Women Techmaker sessions by Google featured inspiring women speakers who shared stories on how they resolved roadblocks in their lives and careers, as well as networking events, which enabled women participants to connect with more people in the industry and forge new opportunities.

Farhan S. Qureshi, Google Regional Director for Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka said: “At Google, we actively work to recognise the achievements of women in tech, and inspire more women in Pakistan to embark on a tech career. The Women Techmakers ambassadors have done an amazing job this year to organize meaningful and helpful programmes for the women developer community, and we look forward to seeing more women in tech step up to become role models for other women.”

Hira Tariq, a WTM Ambassador in Karachi, said: “Based on feedback, the Women Techmakers sessions brought a lot of positive energy to the women communities and gave many women the confidence to overcome obstacles in their own journeys. Aligned with the theme of #ProgressNotPerfection, we have hopefully helped spread the message that it is okay for women to fail and that we should celebrate the incremental successes we make for the women community.”

Since 2013, Google has hosted thousands of Women Techmakers events across 75+ countries in honor of IWD. The mission is to build a world where all women can thrive in tech, and through the events, we help provide visibility, community, and resources for women in tech.

Floods Taking Heavy Toll on Pakistan’s Beleaguered Economy

By

Abubakr Hussain

-

Aug 31, 2022

Distress, deaths and destruction – Pakistan is bracing one of its worst calamities of its history at the moment. All provinces, estimated 30 million people, are directly affected with the floods while arguably the whole country is indirectly affected.

Against average rainfall of 125 millimeters annually, the ongoing season has received at least three times more rains so far.

“People need to be happy that they are at least getting vegetables and fruits albeit at high prices,” said vegetable seller Mohammad Qasim at a well-off neighborhood of PECHS Block 2 in Karachi. “I am expecting shortages in the next few days.”

Sindh, which accounts for Pakistan’s 30 percent of agricultural output and Balochistan with 8 percent output have been the worst hit. Reports suggest that the situation is more critical than the disastrous 2010-11 flash floods. Lower Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have also been affected.

Damaging the lives of people, the floods have also severely affected animals, crops, infrastructure and industries in many parts of the country.

A JS Research’s initial estimates suggest that the country may see losses of $4 billion due to the floods. Some others estimate the damages to cost the nation around $10 billion.

The damages to local raw material supply such as rice and cotton may see a fall in exports while lower local produce may push imports higher than estimated during fiscal year 2023, which would further put pressure on foreign exchange reserves due to increased trade deficit.

However, remittances may increase as overseas Pakistanis are expected to increase the amount they send back home while they may also increase sending donations.

Livestock and textile-related goods that cumulatively hold around 30 percent weight in the CPI – consumer price index that tracks inflation.

“This is a high risk to the already sticky food inflation (at 28%; 13-year high) and high WPI (at 38.6%; all-time high),” JS Research report says.

Apart from the agricultural sector that has directly affected, the manufacturing sector is also expecting tough times ahead.

For instance, demand for tractors is primarily dependent on the performance of the agriculture sector. Farmer income has a direct positive impact on demand for tractors. During fiscal year 2022, increased crop production improved tractor sales by 16 percent.

Damaged cotton crops in Sindh, which are 30% of total production, are expected to dent demand for tractors in the next one year. Meanwhile, Toyota’s sales may also decline as 50 percent of its sales come from rural areas. Honda bikes may also see a decline in sales as it sells a major chunk of its production to people of rural areas.

All other sectors such as construction (cement, steel, etc.), fertilizer and oil marketing companies are also bracing for tough times ahead.

Companies are fearing that the government may impose a flood surcharge this year as it did in the aftermath of 2010-11 floods to fund subsidies and repair infrastructure after the floods.

However, this is a national calamity and everyone has to make their contribution. There’s certainly a damage to the feasibility of investing and doing in Pakistan for foreigners for any such taxes to be imposed, but the damage floods have done, the government may not have much options to choose from.

Pakistan to Witness More Floods in Coming Years

By

-

Aug 31, 2022

This is a topographic map of the subcontinent showing elevation.

What this shows is landscape erosion from flooding over millions of years and the subduction of the Subcontinental plate under the Asian continental plate (the reason for the Himalayas) has created the largest floodplain in the world. Despite contributing less than 1% of carbon emissions causing climate disintegration, Pakistan is still amongst the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change. Subsequently, flooding WILL become more frequent and much more deadly.

Pakistan has 7,253 glaciers; the highest number outside the polar regions. Global warming is melting them at an alarming rate, causing flash floods across the country.

This year, the monsoon season has brought unprecedented rains since mid-June. With these devastating rains and melting glaciers, Pakistan is experiencing the worst floods in its history!

According to various estimates, around 33 million people are impacted: with over 1 million houses washed away, over 10 million left homeless, crops and livestock completely annihilated, 40+ dams breached, 200+ bridges collapsed, road and rail networks across the country severely damaged, and 116 Districts affected!

It is clear that Pakistan is faced with a climate crisis of catastrophic scale. The damage caused just this year will cost billions of dollars and take many years to recover from.

While the Government needs to find effective solutions to manage these floods to avoid such colossal losses and we need to come forward and play our role in supporting #FloodAffectees in the worst #disaster faced by the country by donating to any Organization of our choice (𝘐 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭 https://lnkd.in/dvxmKveY).

The big question we all need to answer is what more evidence do we need before we act? We all need to commit to act now by taking small steps daily to save mother nature and leave a liveable world for our future generations by reducing our personal and collective carbon footprint.”

VTubing – A Fresh Evolution Of Live Streaming? Find Out All About It

By

-

Aug 31, 2022

Do you know about the latest trend that’s taking over the entertainment world for the youth? The new sensation on the internet is called VTubing and we have a feeling you want to be in the know about it. So, here’s everything you need to know:

What Is VTubing?

So, in VTubing (which is also known as VTuber, short for Virtual YouTuber), you utilize motion capture. This is done to operate a 2D or 3D virtual avatar rather than your actual face and body. Doesn’t it sound so Gen-Z?

This phenomena also originated in Japan. Moreover, it’s only been around for around five years which is why you might not know about it. But Japanese broadcasters who catered to the “otaku” (mega fan) anime audience rapidly adopted it and it has now become a strong competition for anime.

What Does VTubing Offer?

The new phenomena offers something special. It allows you to protect one’s identity while allowing popularity and wealth to VTubers. You can manipulate control over your gender, voice, identity, and race as a VTuber. Everything can be as you want. Now, this trend has become a big thing. BY 2021, it had a sizable global subculture following.

For English Streamers Or For Japanese?

VTubing initially was an independent, underground phenomenon for the English-language internet. But it all changed when the well-known Twitch streamer Pokimaine made live streaming history by gaming with a 3D anime avatar. It then became popular in late 2020. Pewdipie is also responsible for bringing attention to this trend. VTubing is also popular in niche communities. People aren’t very happy about others hiding behind a cute Japanese anime avatar because they don’t feel like being on camera. It doesn’t feel authentic enough.

But VTubers are so much more than “for fun” personalities if we look to a future Japan. Studios create VTuber characters that are utilized as influencers in promotions and fan interactions. Although there are independent VTubers, production companies like Polygon Pictures tend to produce the most well-known ones. This also equates to 3 million YouTube subscribers for the most well-known Japanese Vlogger, Kizuna AI.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Inflatable Furniture – A Sophisticated Version For Adults

By