Author: Business & Lifestyle Publishing

A snapshot of all things lifestyle by Island girls Shereen Shabnam and Natasha Dury.

PRISME LIBRE SKIN-CARING GLOW

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The Master of Lights

PRISME LIBRE FOR A SIGNATURE GLOW

To harness the light. Such was the ultimate quest which sparked Givenchy’s Prisme Libre.

“Prisme” for its ability to diffract the light in all different dimensions, and “Libre” for its ultra-natural finish and lightweight texture which lets the skin live and breathe. Featuring four loose powders, Prisme Libre enhances and perfects any complexion whilst blurring imperfections – a true Couture creation in its Givenchy signature case. Ever since its launch, this cult product has established itself as the ultimate light source, and along with it, Givenchy has proven itself as a pioneering brand in the art of mastering the light.

In the same spirit, Givenchy now presents Prisme Libre Skin- Caring Glow, a hybrid foundation which takes makeup to new heights thanks to its formula containing 90% skincare ingredients. Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow leaves a transparent and luminous dewy finish, while acting on the skin’s hydration, radiance and overall quality. This cutting-edge formula that combines the best of makeup and skincare is made up of 97% ingredients of natural origin* to boost radiance and let the skin breathe for maximum glow.

* Formula containing 97% ingredients of natural origin. In accordance with the ISO 16128 standard, Parts 1 and 2, the remaining 3% help preserve the formula over time and maximise its sensory texture.

A FEW DROPS OF PERFECTION

Imagine this virtuous circle: a complexion-enhancing foundation that takes such good care of skin, it looks noticeably better every day. Enter Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow, which combines a natural makeup result with powerful skincare benefits. The ideal pair for an evenly transparent, glowing complexion. In a word? Perfected.

The foundation’s formula includes a record-breaking 90%* skincare base and contains no less than 97%** ingredients of natural origin. It’s also 89%*** biodegradable.

Made up of over half water, the exquisite and melting hybrid texture of Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow is easy to apply and build to your desired coverage. Super comfortable to wear, this foundation acts on three major skincare fronts all at once: it boosts the complexion’s radiance and improves skin hydration and overall quality over time, all while letting it breathe. The makeup’s ultra-sheer, modern dewy finish perfects and brightens the skin, adding a plump, aerated effect.

* Percentage of the moisturising base in the foundation excluding pigments and pearlescent particles
** Formula containing 97% ingredients of natural origin. In accordance with the ISO 16128 standard, Parts 1 and 2, the remaining 3% help preserve the formula over time and maximise its sensory texture.

*** Data measured over 28 days in accordance with the OECD 301B test

12-HOUR RADIANCE*

“We wanted to recreate natural light as closely as possible. A vibrant, complexion-enhancing light”, explains Givenchy’s Makeup and Colour Artistic Director Nicolas Degennes.

Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow contains 4 different shades of corrective pigments, light-reflecting particles and oils which help diffuse even the faintest beam of light that hits the face. Upon application it provides a glowy effect which lasts for 12 hours*. But that’s not all – enriched with active skincare ingredients, it reveals the skin’s natural radiance day after day. After four weeks of application, the skin’s glow is improved by 57%**.

* Clinical test on 20 women
** Clinical test on 33 women, makeup effect at 4 weeks

24-HOUR HYDRATION*

The formula’s core active ingredient, Advanced Glow ComplexTM, combines illuminating and moisturising agents like nasturtium extract and glycerine in a skincare base. The solution for intense, 24-hour* hydration from the time of application, and noticeable improvement in the skin’s hydration over time: +25%** in four weeks. The skin’s plump appearance is also increased by 10%**.

* Instrumental test on 10 women
** Clinical test on 33 women, makeup effect at 4 weeks

INSTANT FLAWLESS EFFECT

The “4 Colour” pigments in Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow help correct uneven pigmentation, while its blurring agents play a role in blending out minor imperfections, refine pores and give the skin a satin-soft texture.The foundation’s benefits on the quality of the skin are optimised with continuous application: after four weeks, the appearance of pores is reduced by 19%* and colour imperfections are minimised by 13%*.

Women agree*: Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow naturally embellishes the skin, lets it breathe, and helps improve its quality day after day. The natural radiance of their complexion is visibly enhanced.

These benefits have been confirmed by clinical studies*. After four weeks of use, the skin’s quality is improved by 28%, its moisturised appearance is increased by 25%, and its natural radiance is boosted by 27%.

* Clinical test carried out on 33 Caucasian female volunteers aged 21 to 54 over 4 weeks, makeup effect

THE NEW RADIANCE RITUAL

Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow is available in a palette of 30 different shades. 30 shades designed not just for the tone of the skin, but also for its warm, cool or neutral undertones. A perfect fit for each and every complexion.

The product couldn’t be easier to use – it can be applied using your fingertips for a light and sheer dewy finish, or using a brush to conceal imperfections or achieve a higher coverage. Whichever way you choose, it was designed to match the shades of Prisme Libre and be used together. Once the foundation is applied, the four loose powders let you create a perfectly sculpted and highlighted effect, with the added benefit of mattifying the T-zone.

THE FUTURE OF LUXURY

More than just a Couture object, the Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow foundation’s bottle has been designed to be ecologically responsible and reduce its environmental impact.

It adopts the same refined style codes as the other products in the Prisme Libre range: a square base, a large, black lacquered cap, sculptural lines and the essential 4G signature.

The materials and design were selected to improve the product’s ecological footprint. The pump can be unscrewed and easily separated from the bottle to make recycling easier*, while the cap is made in part of recycled materials. The box, also recyclable*, is made of cardboard from sustainably- managed forests, and the inks used are plant-based. The perfect illustration of luxury with a purpose.

* Depending on local instructions

READY TO GLOW

To mark the launch of Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow, Givenchy unveils its new makeup face, Lithuanian model Giedre Dukauskaite. Her pure, natural beauty carved out a spot for her on the most prestigious catwalks.

Giedre appears in a brand new visual that says everything about the new foundation. Her feather dress speaks to the formula’s lightweight texture and Couture sophistication, while the sleek architecture of the setting expresses the modernity of a product that gets back to basics. Her radiance, intensified by the daylight, is a striking testimony to the skincare benefits and illuminating power of this super-foundation.

#PrismeLibre

Blending Interactivity with Health and Education

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BenQ 4K UHD 86” Education Interactive Flat Panel Display

By Shereen Shabnam

The highlight of my 2020 reviews was BenQ’s 86″ Germ Resistant Education Interactive Flat Panel, RP8602, designed for an engaging and healthy teaching and learning environment.

Installed with proficient cloud features including cloud whiteboard, the plug and play RP02 enhances class preparation participation and fosters collaboration beyond locations and platforms. The smart IFP is also packed with advanced air quality sensors, germ-resistant screen, and eye-care solutions for a healthily, smooth and fun teaching and learning experience.

Real-Time Collaboration for Learning and Student Engagement

Being married to an educator and having a child in University, the favourite feature in my household was the Cloud Whiteboard and Sticky Notes for Classrooms.

The panel is packed with teacher and student friendly features. BenQ’s EZWrite 5 software is the leading annotation solution for interactive and collaborative classroom scenarios. Teachers and students can enjoy enhanced interactivity by using EZWrite Cloud Whiteboard to collect, categorize, edit, and share notes between the IFP and mobile devices.

EZWrite 5 comes with dual pens that allow two users to write or draw simultaneously with different colors, making it ideal for lively classroom activities.

The panel is perfect for creative education as EZWrite 5 has a brush mode that is ideal to inspire creation in art classes. Users are guaranteed to enjoy an effortless experience that feels like writing and drawing with actual pens and brushes.

EZWrite’s handwriting recognition feature allows users to instantly convert written text, numbers, forms, and drawings into easily legible digital text without having to switch modes. Teachers can directly open EZWrite 5 with a simple tap of the IFP’s NFC sensor and immediately begin creating vibrant notes with various colored pencils, backgrounds, and palm erasers. This quick and convenient access streamlines teaching flow and helps keep students focused.

EZWrite’s built-in Floating Tool empowers teachers to write on top of any app, video, website, document, or image. Whether using Windows, Mac, Chrome, or Android, a teacher can take notes on top of any on-screen content and save them.

We also like the X-Sign Broadcast that can push alerts, messages, and announcements during class. Unlike traditional classroom messaging systems, X-Sign Broadcast ensures immediate message delivery as well as group notification.

We enjoyed using the panel a lot more using InstaShare, designed for seamless wireless presentation and collaboration during lectures and meetings. It allows the smooth streaming of visual, audio files, and Full HD quality videos. Users can also mirror and control all digital content across the devices including BenQ IFP, PCs, tablets, and smartphones, empowering contributors to enrich their sessions with a variety of multimedia resources.

A Healthy Learning Environment & Boardroom

During this pandemic, health matters. BenQ IFP ensures classrooms and boardrooms can embrace innovation without compromising the health users by providing air quality sensors, smart eye-care technology, and germ-resistant screen.

BenQ Air Quality Sensors provide real-time data on key environmental parameters by detecting temperature, humidity, and monitoring PM 2.5 and CO2 concentration level.

The Smart Eye-Care solution also functions intuitively with the help of the embedded motion sensor. For a smooth and comfortable viewing experience, the RP02 series is equipped with short-range PIR buttons, which will automatically activate Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light features by detecting the movement of users close to the screen.

The Germ-Resistant Screen is empowered by a multilayer coating of the non-toxic, enduring nano ionic silver agent that kills most germs accumulating on screen surfaces and prevent cross-infection or epidemic in classrooms.

The ionic silver’s antimicrobial feature remains effective even after thorough cleaning or long periods of use. For a smooth and comfortable viewing experience, the RP02 series is equipped with short-range PIR buttons, which will automatically activate Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light features by detecting the movement of users close to the screen.

Verdict

With all the innovative and interactive health and education features, we love the BenQ Interactive as it provides the ultimate device management solution for productivity in the classroom and in the boardroom.

#BenQ #Technology #business #trendingbusiness #magazineUAE #magazine  #lifestyle #mediaUAE #UAEmedia #UAEbusiness #myDubai #Emirates

Gulf Craft’s ‘Majesty 175’ Completes Maiden Sea Trial

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Gulf Craft, one of the world’s top seven shipyards, celebrated a significant milestone with its flagship megayacht, Majesty 175, successfully completing her maiden sea trial. The yacht, which is due for delivery later this year, was sold to a prominent UAE businessman.

The highlight of the Majesty 175’s first sea trial was her remarkable maneuverability, speed, robust hull and rigidness. The Majesty 175 undertook a series of inclination experiments for multiple factors at sea in which she reached a top speed of 17 knots powered by her twin heavy duty MTU 12V 4000 M63 engines, delivering 1500kW each.

HE Mohamed Hussein Alshaali, Chairman of Gulf Craft, said the success of Majesty 175’s maiden sea trial highlights the world-class megayacht construction competencies of the company. “When we announced Majesty 175 at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show, we had a single-minded goal: To create a masterpiece megayacht with exceptional design and performance standards. Our team worked for four years at our facility in Umm Al Quwain to build this magnificent composite megayacht, our largest project to date.”

Built to the specifications outlined by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) for yachts over 500 GT, Majesty 175 has a beam of 31.6 ft (9.62 metres). Despite its gross tonnage (GT) of 780, she can cruise even through low-draft areas, drawing just 2.25 metres of water, as she is built using advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre and vinylester. The shallow draft also enables close beach access.  

Majesty 175’s exterior and interior design are by the award-winning Cristiano Gatto Design Studio in Italy. The naval architecture is by Massimo Gregori of the Yankee Delta Studio. Majesty 175’s stand-out features include a 5-metre infinity pool at the forward deck and a hybrid sky-lounge that can be converted to an open sun deck. The smart layout accommodates guests in seven lavish staterooms and a crew of up to 10 members with six large crew cabins and a private captain accommodation.  

At the helm during the Majesty 175’s maiden sea trial was Captain Patricia Caswell, Gulf Craft’s Quality Control Manager. She said: “We are excited to have taken this beauty out to sea. She has performed brilliantly on her first sea trial covering multiple factors, including the engines at full speed, the pair of generators, and fin stabilisers as well as the navigation and telecommunication systems. Preliminary noise and vibration levels are outstanding, and these will continue to improve when the entire interior elements are completed.”

With two fixed pitch six-blade propellers, Majesty 175’s electricity supply comes from 175 kW Kohler generators and two pairs of TRAC fin stabilizers. Safety features include a SOLAS rescue boat and an emergency generator.

“THE ART OF MOVEMENT”: CUSTOM LINE PRESENTS THE NEW NAVETTA 30

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The eagerly awaited project designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Filippo Salvetti unites the architectural language of the maritime tradition, living materials, fine craftsmanship and the power of light, encompassing them in a perfect circle.

Custom Line Navetta 30 marks a new chapter in the brand’s evolution. This romantic yacht is full of charm and makes an extremely elegant and contemporary style statement.

At 28.43 m (93 ft) in length and with a beam of 7.3 m (24 ft), Navetta 30 is a product of collaboration between the Product Strategy Department led by Mr. Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. The yacht is the first project with exteriors designed by Filippo Salvetti and interiors by architecture and design firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The influence of these top professionals can be seen in every stylistic choice.

An in-depth approach to the design process, referencing stylistic features in the finest tradition, has generated the many unusual elements that make Navetta 30 a new icon of the sea. They range from the choice of natural, living materials like leather, wood and rope, to an unprecedented celebration of light.

The sea metaphor is also clear to see in the colourways, and particularly in the choice of blue. The constant reference to seafaring tradition can also be seen in the rounded lines and curves of the interior spaces, furniture and window frames, combined with the use of natural materials like solid wood, leather and teak, which are free to continue their natural cycle and live a new life at every stage in their story.

The return to the historical memory of “going to sea” is also emphasised by the use of the colour blue for the walls and furnishings, as well as for the fabrics and coatings with their custom textures, all helping to enhance the continuity between interior and exterior at a stylistic level too, in an unfiltered experience with the sea.

Right from the very first glance, the exterior of Navetta 30 stands out for her classic, perfectly poised silhouette. The lines stretch out horizontally, highlighting this aspect of the design so that the vertical connections between the decks almost go unnoticed. The tinted windows and powerfully architectural design aim to reduce vertical contrasts still further and impart an emphatic horizontal movement to how the pale colours are ‘read’.

The design gives an innovative twist to the brand’s heritage values of seaworthiness, comfort, safety and customisation, making it instinctively recognisable while retaining a sense of formal purity. A design made to last. The exteriors maintain seamless continuity of finishes and furnishings and are designed for socialising and relaxation, adding to the convivial and private spaces on board.

All the furniture and furnishings are custom-made using sophisticated handcrafting and cabinetmaking techniques that can clearly be seen at first glance in the stern flag mast, in the curving solid wood window frames and in the teak ceilings. The pairing with natural leather and wood creates a textured mood that is fresh and youthful.

Navetta 30 has three decks with every comfort and a total of over 320 square metres of space in which she can accommodate 10 guests in five cabins, with a master stateroom on the main deck and four guest cabins on the lower deck.

Special care has been lavished on the lighting design to ensure the perfect integration of architecture and light. Decorative wall-mounted lamps enrich the spaces with reflections and light effects, giving them personality. The use of warm dimming technology to adjust the intensity and tone of the light allows guests to create different lighting moods and personalise their living experience.

Overall, the yacht has a dynamic personality expressed by taut, sweeping lines, with volumes, performance and comfort on a par with much larger models and an exterior design in which form and function are perfectly balanced.

Pushing Boundaries:Azimut Grande Trideck

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Not only the first three-deck yacht built by Azimut Yachts, but also its largest to date, the Grande Trideck exemplifies the Italian brand’s capacity for pushing the boundaries of design, style and construction.

The exterior design by Alberto Mancini introduces a host of innovations in terms of layout, each of which is not only the consequence of a particular design choice, but also inspires or creates further artful and original features. The idea of including an aft raised cockpit, for example, led to the development of new outdoor areas with unexpected concepts, functions and characteristics.

The interiors are designed by Achille Salvagni, who has moved away from the traditional arrangement of on-board spaces to create an environment that reflects the lifestyle of today’s owner who is seeking versatility, informality and somewhere they can truly relax and entertain guests in comfort. On that note, there is also an option of a sixth cabin on the upper deck.

The water lines are by Pierluigi Ausonio’s firm P.l.a.n.a., with a D2P® Displacement to Planing hull designed together with the Azimut Research and Development centre guaranteeing maximum efficiency at all speeds.

When it came to designing the layout of this 38.2-metre long, 7.9-metre wide yacht, the rule book was completely rewritten, and the result is a series of informal, dynamic and versatile spaces, perfect for the contemporary owner who sees their boat as a convivial place for socialising and hosting guests in a relaxed setting.

As one would expect from an Azimut flagship, the exterior lines are elegant and dynamic, but the twist comes in the form of a raised deck in the stern that creates a series of unprecedented new exterior spaces, strategically spaced out around the boat. With so many options, both owner and guests are spoilt for choice, whether they are looking to seek out quiet moments alone or spend time together in a convivial, comfortable setting.

The central idea around which the design develops is clear from the moment you step on board: the Trideck welcomes guests from the central gangway directly onto the Aft Raised Deck, which could be described almost as a mezzanine that sits slightly above the Main Deck.  The creation of this raised deck in turn opened the door to a trio of new zones: a Sea View Terrace, Beach Club and Private Patio.

Clever styling gives the exterior lines a lighter feel, creating a sensation of dynamism that is far from easy to achieve on a boat this size. The sides of the yacht are given a sense of movement and tension by the ribbing that runs continuously from the stern right through to the bow, while the exhausts and fairleads become design.

Achille Salvagni has wholeheartedly embraced Azimut’s challenge to redefine the role of space by rethinking the traditional functions of many of the boat’s areas. In completely reconsidering the way many of the internal spaces are used and abandoning preconceptions and established norms, the boat becomes a more fluid, informal environment, and a space that is genuinely conducive to relaxing. This is fostered by the way in which the height and width of the interiors are amplified, and the seamless integration with exterior zones so that they seem to flow into each other.

This atmosphere that encourages owners and guests alike to completely let go of the world outside and give themselves up to total relaxation is also a result of Salvagni’s décor, which builds on the fluidity of space, inhabiting the interiors so that they appear sculpted rather than simply filled.

The interiors also contain surprises from a layout point of view, with a private patio on the main deck fitted out as a sheltered lounge area providing access to an indoor lounge. The cut of the bow at two different angles offers a dynamic look without compromising on space by optimising the interior volumes.

The D2P® Displacement to Planing hull is designed by Pierluigi Ausonio in collaboration with the Azimut Research and Development centre, making use of proprietary CFD software, FEM analysis and tank testing. The double chine hull reduces drag at cruising speed and improves stability during displacement navigation. With two engine options rated 2400 or 2600 mHP, the Trideck delivers a top speed of 23 or 24 knots.

The entire superstructure is laminated in carbon fibre, with added vinylester and epoxy resin. This reduces the yacht’s overall weight significantly, while the combination of the D2P® hull and the carbon fibre superstructure delivers a considerable improvement in performance, with reduced consumption accompanied by greater speed and range.

Fortinet Recognized as a Visionary in the 2020 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Wired and Wireless LAN Access Infrastructure

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Fortinet is the Only Company to Converge Network Security and the LAN Edge

News Summary

Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), a global leader in broad, integrated and automated cybersecurity solutions, today announced its position as a Visionary in the 2020 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Wired and Wireless LAN Access Infrastructure.

  • Gartner defines a vendor in the Visionaries Quadrantas one that “demonstrates an ability to increase features in its offering to provide a unique and differentiated approach to the market. A Visionary will have innovated in one or more of the key areas of access layer technologies within the enterprise (for example, security, management or operational efficiency). The ability to apply differentiating functionality across the entire access layer will affect its position.”
  • Fortinet believes this placement, coupled with the cybersecurity provider’s legacy as an innovator, is further reinforcement that Fortinet and its Security-driven Networking strategy delivers a unique and differentiated approach to the infrastructure market. 
  • Fortinet’s Security-driven Networking approach to wired and wireless networking provides customers with a feature-rich offering that is secure by design and not by add-on, integrates into a larger platform to reduce complexity, and increases features without additional licensing to best address IT’s long-term TCO goals.

John Maddison, EVP of Products and CMO at Fortinet said, “LAN Edge connectivity is foundational to digital innovation, but complexity often makes it difficult to support and secure. Fortinet technology simplifies management while increasing the security of the network by tightly integrating an organization’s network infrastructure and security architecture.  We believe that our ability to execute our Security-driven Networking approach enables us to offer customers a simplified, secure, accelerated network and user experience. More, we also believe our Security-driven Networking approach is why Fortinet is placed as one of two companies in the Visionary Quadrant in the 2020 Gartner Wired and Wireless LAN Access Infrastructure Magic Quadrant.”

Highlights

Fortinet’s vision is based upon the key tenets of:

  • Reduced Cost: Fortinet LAN Edge solutions reduce overall TCO and eliminates overlays by bundling features into FortiGate Next-generation Firewalls without the need for licenses. No additional license or cost is required to enable LAN Edge management, and even Network Access Control (NAC) features can be enabled and leveraged without the need for additional costly licenses.
  • Simplified Management: Fortinet LAN Edge solutions simplify management by utilizing a single management platform for LAN and network security. IT cycles are minimized by having a consolidated location to manage various aspects of the network.
  • Reduced Complexity: Fortinet LAN Edge solutions reduce complexity by centralizing LAN management and security functions into the FortiGate Next-generation Firewall. A single view of complex LAN networks makes for easier management with less worry about unintended disruptions​.

Fortinet’s approach enables a unique take on the LAN edge that leverages FortiGate Next-generation Firewall capabilities as a network controller, offering consolidated visibility and centralized management and reporting to ease management and simplify deployment and provisioning.

Fortinet Solves Customers’ Biggest LAN Challenges
Fortinet has been named a Gartner Peer Insights Customers’ Choice for Wired and Wireless LAN Access Infrastructure [1] for three years in a row. This Gartner Customers’ Choice recognition is based on the ranking of vendors by verified end-user professionals – both the number of end-user reviews and the vendor’s overall user rating are considered when determining these rankings. Fortinet believes that this additional customer validation further highlights that Fortinet’s simple, secure, and scalable approach to LAN Edge resonates with customers. Building off the power of Security-driven Networking and our industry-leading FortiGate Next-generation Firewall, Fortinet offers a LAN Edge solution that can scale to any deployment’s needs, from campus to branch to the remote worker.

  • Campus Networks: Fortinet’sLAN Edge solution creates a single consolidated configuration reducing the chance for error, and a common platform for day-to-day management of network and security. Security-driven Networking eliminates the need for additional “bolt on” solutions to integrate management and security functions.
  • SD-Branch: Security-driven Networking approach to LAN Edge allows consolidation of the three main components of the branch network (SD-WAN, Firewall/Security, and the network layer) into a single standard platform for all branches. This simplifies remote oversight and administration of distributed sites to a single converged solution per site.
  • Teleworker: Fortinet’s Security-driven Networking approach to LAN Edge works forremote wireless Access Points as well. Leveraging a central FortiGate at headquarters reduces configuration and management complexity for IT while allowing remote users to have the same experience as connecting at a corporate office.

The Knowledge Hub Pioneers Innovative Digital Learning Experiences in Egypt with Help of Aruba Technology

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The Knowledge Hub Universities is a multidisciplinary educational hub hosting branches of world-class universities, each to participate with undergraduate courses in their areas of strength, providing an intellectually stimulating, enriching, and credible educational experience. TKH has deployed state of the art wired and wireless networking technology from Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company. The solution enables utilisation of the latest digital learning tools and connected campus security systems. It offers a convenient ‘Guest Portal’ for rapid, secure and controlled internet access and delights users with seamless roaming across the campus. Network performance issues or negative feedback from staff and students have been eliminated and the system enables seamless centralised management of networks across the entire campus.

TKH was established with the purpose of offering quality learning experiences, through the development of sustainable world-class educational institutions with state-of-the-art facilities to maximize community impact. The institution aims to be a hub for world-class education in Egypt through the use of cutting-edge digital learning tools, delivered in a convenient, secure and reliable manner.

“Our flagship initiative has been setting up a multidisciplinary educational hub that host branches of leading international universities, delivering the same academic programmes offered at their mother campus and thus leading to the same, exact qualification and degrees. Providing students with the same quality of experience is pivotal to this, and technology is a fundamental enabler of these world-class experiences,” explained Hossam Ismail, IT Network Lead.

Recognising that mobility and pervasive connectivity would be essential to implementing the innovations they intended to roll out at the University, TKH’s IT team selected Aruba as their networking technology partner. “We needed exceptional wireless coverage across the entire campus,” said Ismail. “To protect the digital identities and activities of our students and staff, security was also a key requirement and Aruba was a clear industry leader in both these areas. We will be introducing several internationally acclaimed educational institutions to the region and need to ensure our environment is flexible, scalable and built on open standards. Aruba ticked all these boxes.”

Starting with the first phase of TKH, consisting of different buildings with more than 60 classrooms, 20 lecture halls & workshops and 250 staff offices as well as recreational facilities and common areas, Ismail and his IT team worked closely with Aruba to implement Layer 3 switching and wireless Access Points (APs).

“We selected Wi-Fi 6 capable solutions because as a University, we are constantly introducing the very latest innovations to ensure our students & staff have rapid access to the cutting-edge digital technologies,” said Ismail.

To deliver secure access for professors and admin staff while providing convenient wireless connectivity for visitors and guests, and to facilitate bring your own device (BYOD) for students in a controlled and uncompromisingly secure manner, the University implemented Aruba ClearPass. Ismail and his team also decided to leverage Airwave Network Management to centrally monitor and manage the entire network so that the quality and integrity of services could be maintained at consistently high levels.

For Ismail and his team, the decision to partner with Aruba has paid dividends on multiple fronts – with world-class solution design and logistics support, the flexibility to repurpose investments, and a rapid realisation of ROI on the first phase, being highlights of the engagement.

Despite the impact of COVID-19 and logistical challenges, the implementation was completed within just 8-10 weeks.

To deliver its digitally oriented curriculum, TKH makes use of several digital tools including a Learning Management System (LMS). “The Aruba solution allows students and staff to have seamless, uninterrupted access to these essential learning tools. Moreover, through orchestrated and automated user and devices authentication via ClearPass, they can use these applications on their own personal devices which greatly aids adoption and utilisation,” said Ismail.

Also using ClearPass, his team has set up a ‘Guest Portal’ that conveniently authenticates staff and students based on the same credentials registered in the University’s Active Directory. Moreover, Aruba’s solution ensures compliance by automatically conducting a health check on all devices trying to connect to the network. “If any vulnerabilities are detected, the system automatically takes remediation steps such as performing operating system and software updates. This ensures that every device that connects to our network is authenticated and secure,” said Ismail.

Based on the ‘exceptional’ experience that the University has had with Aruba – both from a technical as well as a support perspective – Ismail and his team are keen to deepen their engagement. “From implementation through to daily operation, we have never faced even a single issue with our Aruba network. This kind of performance and reliability is rare with technology deployments,” he said.

TKH is already in discussion with Aruba to extend the network for the upcoming phase of the project which will involve expansion into a further five buildings. “Our students and staff are incredibly happy with the performance and convenience of our network and associated digital services. This gives us the confidence to keep introducing Aruba solutions and new innovations that set our University apart as a pioneer,” concluded Ismail.

Dubai based Artist, Zak Zorro’s single ‘Jeeta Raha’ crosses 1 million views within 24 hours of release

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Zakeer Hussain  popularly known as ‘Zak Zorro’ released his latest music video ‘Jeeta Raha’ on December 20, 2020 a song dedicated to fathers as a tribute to the unconditional love and constant sacrifices they make for their children’s happiness and wellbeing.

The music video seems to have struck an emotional chord with viewers and has gone viral raking up over a million views in under 24 hours of its release. Although not new to the million views club (Zak’s previous music videos ‘Teri Yaad Mey’ and ‘Taqdeeron ke Khilone’ have crossed over 2 million and 1 million views respectively) Jeeta Raha holds a very special place in Zakeer’s heart as he lost his beloved father earlier in the year.

The Jeeta Raha music video has been shot with a Dubai based cast and crew completely in the UAE with special sets created at Icon Art Production’s Studio in Dubai. It has been directed by Sajjad Delafrooz , renowned for his roles as the main villain of popular Bollywood Film ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif  as well as one of the most watched  web series from India ‘Special Ops’

A Press Conference maintaining social distancing norms was specially held in Dubai at Icon Art Production’s Studio to launch the song in honor of Zak’s late Father in the presence of Saeed Al Janahi, Director of Operations, Dubai Film and TV Commission.

Arjun Kumar, Dubai based Bollywood Film Producer of popular film franchisees like ‘Welcome’ and ‘Hera Pheri’ and Mini Sarma, Line Producer was amongst the guests in attendance.

Speaking at the occasion Zak highlighted “Blessed are those whose fathers are still alive. Please be more vocal about your love and appreciation for them. Even if one person after watching this video goes and hugs his father, I will consider my song to be a success”

Sajjad Delafrooz added, “A Father’s silence does not mean, they have nothing to say. It’s their loneliness keeps them quiet.

“Congratulations to Zak on release of new song. We understand from the “Jeeta Raha” video the importance of a Father in our Life. All the best and waiting for the new songs and new feature films”. Saeed Al Janahi, Dubai Film and TV Commission.

Arjun reminisced of the all the support Zak (who is also an Executive producer himself and the owner of UAE’s premiere film equipment rental and Production Company) and his team have always extended, “Our films are known for their multi-star cast, but we rarely get a chance to thank the real-heroes behind the screen on a public platform. I wish Zak the very best in this new role of a singer, I have always been proud of him and here’s hoping we continue to make the UAE proud together”

Mini Sarma said, “Music is just not a tune. It’s also emotional touch. This is what we find with “Jeeta Raha”. Congratulations that you could accomplish your dream Zak and Sajjad could deliver it perfectly.”

The Dubai based cast portrayed their characters beautifully to translate the feel of the song. ‘Jeeta Raha’ starring Manas Villas, Ricky Singh and Karishma Gajnanlani is written by Waqqas Qaddir Sheikh, Music by Faraz Rizvi and Zak and Directed by Sajjad Delafrooz and Produced by Dubai based Production House Icon Art Production.

The Song “Jeeta Raha” was released on December 20, 2020 on ZakZorro’s YouTube Channel.

Revolutionising the Business World

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 Interview with Vikas Panchal – Business Head, Middle East for Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd

Shereen Shabnam

Tally Solutions Pvt Ltd. is a pioneer in the business management software industry. We meet with Vikas Panchal – Business Head, Middle East for Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd to find out how the company has helped over 60,000 businesses with their accounting, inventory and compliance needs.

Vikas is largely responsible for building and leading MENA Strategy to achieve Tally’s dominance in the region. He prepares the company’s annual strategy and ensures its effective execution. He talks about his current role and building a stronger distribution network aiming to achieve a wider dominance in countries of operations through channel expansion and development.

What did Tally showcase at GITEX this year?

This year at GITEX we showcased our new product – TallyPrime- the next generation business management software. TallyPrime is our latest offering which will equip SMEs owners and new-age entrepreneurs with an ultra-simple and powerful software to enhance their business productivity. Focused on making the business owners’ lives simple TallyPrime aims to further simplify business management with facilitating users to comfortably manage and grow their business without needing to know the finer nuances of accounting or technology. The product is meticulously designed keeping the user experience at core, which enhances the legendry speed, simplicity, reliability, and flexibility of the product.

How different is this product from the previous versions?

At Tally, we have always focused on providing simple yet powerful solutions to simplify the lives of business owners, professionals, and accountants, and with TallyPrime, we have reached one step closer to that goal. TallyPrime is meticulously designed keeping the user experience at core, which has enriched the legendry speed, simplicity, and flexibility of the product in addition to making it easy for the business owners and accountants to address all their needs in just one solution.

How easy is the product to use?

There are several new features and experiences that have been introduced to enrich the simplicity and usability of the product. The product with a refreshingly new look and feel has dynamic and flawless navigation which assists in getting insightful reports easily and delivers a super smooth experience, making it a delight to operate. Anyone can use the product comfortably to manage and grow their business without needing to know the finer nuances of accounting or technology. Features line the new ‘GoTo’ capability has taken Tally’s famous reporting engine to the next level, and the simplified data entry has made it faster to use and more flexible for several business use cases. The ability to multi-task in the product has also been appreciated by many early customers.

How was the response at GITEX?

GITEX is the first physical event in the UAE post the pandemic and we were extremely excited to a part of it. This year’s theme of participation is to #MakeEveryDaySimple – by helping SMEs into their digital transformation journey. With the showcase of TallyPrime, we have received positive response from visitors who have deep shown interest in the product to assist them in their journey towards automation and growth.

What are your plans for 2021?

We have a lot in store for 2021. TallyPrime is the first release in a comprehensively planned product roadmap. We are also investing heavily in bringing anytime anywhere access solutions for customers that are inherently secure and private. We also aim to increase our foothold in the current markets and assist SMEs in their journey towards growth.