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Olympic hopeful Sophie Wright from Horsford wins mountain bike comeback - 12 days after five-hour heart operation
PUBLISHED: 13:38 26 April 2017 | UPDATED: 13:38 26 April 2017
Archant Norfolk 2016
A teenage cycling sensation and Olympic hopeful has got back to winning ways just days after undergoing a major operation for a heart problem which could have ended her career.
Sophie Wright, 18, from Horsford, near Norwich, won a national mountain bike event at the weekend just 12 days after undergoing five hours of keyhole surgery to correct an abnormal heart rhythm.
The Hellesdon High School Sixth Form student came home five minutes ahead of her nearest rival in the contest in Berkshire in a remarkable come back to the saddle.
Miss Wright, a rising star in the Team GB Cycling Team and junior Olympic programme, said she was delighted with the result following the painstaking operation which could have left her cycling dreams in tatters had it gone wrong.
She said: "It was brilliant. It was just good to get back to racing really and the racing scene.
"It was just brilliant to win and kick off racing like that."
Miss Wright, who will take part in a World Junior Series event at Hadleigh Park in Essex next month before competing in the world championship events in Australia and Norway later this year, said she was "overwhelmed" surgery had been successful.
She said: "When I realised they had done it...it was so overwhelming. It was just a massive relief.
"Over the past two years I've had this abnormal heart rhythm which sometimes randomly happens when I'm on my bike.
"It's a palpitation where my maximum heart rate goes up to about 256 a minute where my usual maximum is around 180 to 190.
"I've been having consultations and the last time it happened during a race where I came third in the European Road Racing Championships back in September.
"After that the doctor at British Cycling stopped me from training and racing because of this heart issue."
Miss Wright initially went for an operation at Papworth Hospital in January but had to return on April 11 for intricate surgery after the problem was found to be in a more difficult place than first thought.
She added: "When I was wheeled through to my room I opened my eyes and said to my parents "we did it" and we all started crying."
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The microfinance paradox: 'lax' regulations boost sector growth but predatory practices go unchecked
By Abdul Rahman Bazian - Feb 11,2019 - Last updated at Nov 05,2019
AMMAN — Microfinance loans comprised no more than 1 per cent of the country's overall banking and finance sector's credit facilities in 2017, approximately JD223 million, out of JD23.5 billion in total, according to the Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ).
Nonetheless, microfinance operations have provided tens of thousands of jobs and can potentially benefit millions of Jordanians in the years to come.
Total credit facilitated via microfinance institutions (MFIs) grew 10 per cent in just one year, from 2016's JD200 million, CBJ data show.
Meanwhile, nearly 70 per cent of the sector's issued credit is facilitated through branches in the governorates, outside of the capital, Amman, according to the CBJ.
As a mostly non-profit sector, the aim of microfinancing is to build economic capacity in local communities and further the implementation of the CBJ's financial inclusion strategy, an international donor organisation that preferred to remain unnamed told The Jordan Times.
In recent years, the MFI industry began incorporating various financing models, to meet the needs of an unsatisfied market.
Since then, partnerships with international and local development agents allowed MFIs to reach beyond urban centres, to what the donor organisation described as "underserved locations".
These locations are loosely defined as remote areas where residents have limited to no access to financial services and where people generally do not meet the minimum eligibility criteria to get loans from commercial banks.
Donors generally do not involve themselves in the details of MFI operations and structural issues, as they contend it is the CBJ's responsibility.
However, despite remarkable growth rates, MFIs still face various challenges that negatively affect the overall outcome and benefit of the sector's operations.
Regulatory shortcomings
Chief among these challenges are those resulting from shortcoming regulations, myopic planning and irresponsible practices by enterprises facilitating microloans informally, sector representatives claim.
According to the CBJ, there are nine licensed MFIs, all of whom are members of the Jordan Microfinance Network, Tanmeyah.
However, Executive Director of Tanmeyah Saleem Nammari warned there are dozens of enterprises operating outside the network.
They operate in the absence of CBJ oversight, as in "not licensed by the central bank", he underlined.
In fact, there seems to have developed an unregulated, informal sector that lacks sufficient supervision, Nammari said.
"There are hundreds of them, preying on clients and borrowers with no regards to the consequences of their practices," he claimed.
Notably, the central bank is supposed to be the sole financial authority supervising the sector. But there are companies registered under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply operating without CBJ licences.
In July 2013, former chairman of the Tanmeyah Board of Directors Mustafa Nasser Al Din sent a formal communiqué to the Minister of Industry, citing copies sent to the governor of the central bank and the minister of Planning and International Cooperation, highlighting the dangers of such practices.
The document, a copy of which was obtained by The Jordan Times, underlines "unethical practices" of credit mediation enterprises, and lists a few of them.
According to Nammari, these enterprises are part of the problem, next to dozens of other companies facilitating loans and mediating for creditors and borrowers, illicitly.
When asked about it, the CBJ said that the 2015 Microfinance By-law No. (5) places the bank as the authority in charge of licensing, supervising and regulating MFIs.
"Companies engaged in microfinance operations were given two years to rectify their legal status and register with the central bank in accordance to the by-law," the CBJ said.
In a phone interview with Maha Abdallat, head of the microfinance department at the CBJ, she said that companies — including credit mediation enterprises listed in the document that was provided for the CBJ's review by The Jordan Times via e-mail — are not registered with the central bank and, therefore, the CBJ would not comment on the issue.
To inquire further on the issues, The Jordan Times contacted the Ministry of Industry.
According to ministry's spokesperson,Yanal Barmawi, it is the CBJ's job to monitor and supervise the operation and status of microfinance companies registered at the ministry.
"The ministry penalises companies operating outside of their registered scopes of business. If a company's registration does not include in its scope the issuance of loans, micro or otherwise, but was found to have issued any such loans, the ministry intervenes and takes whatever correctional or penalising measure stipulated in the law. Otherwise, it is the CBJ's job to monitor finance and mediation companies registered legally with the ministry," Barmawi explained.
Meanwhile, the CBJ insisted that unlicensed financial institutions that are registered with the ministry are not on its radar.
Data on the exact number of ministry-registered unlicensed companies were not available.
While formal MFIs strive to facilitate "consumer-friendly" debt instruments for Jordanians, these enterprises operating informally pose a threat to the sector, Nammari contended.
They thrive in the unregulated segments of the market.
Predatory banking
Microfinance banking was established in 1976 in Bangladesh by Nobel Prize Laureate Muhammad Yunus, one of the founders of the Grameen Bank, the first institution to introduce Islamic tools and instruments of finance to the banking sector globally, proving to the world of finance that non-predatory banking does in fact work.
Yunus' Grameen Bank was also amongst the first enterprises ever to utilise the concepts and mechanisms of microfinance in development.
Now, some 42 years later, the microfinance sector in Jordan has become one of the most important microcredit sources for Jordanians who do not meet the eligibility criteria for commercial bank loans.
Shafea Kayed, a former microfinance credit officer at a commercial bank, said: "These microcredit facilities are the lifeline of some small businesses and families, whose members are unemployed or whose salaries are below criteria," and this is where it gets a little tricky.
The lack of centralised blanket supervision over the sector has enabled the rise of a predatory unregulated segment, sector officials say.
Violations by informal microfinance enterprises go unchecked, Nammari exclaimed, as there are no authorities to monitor them.
"They are ruining the sector's reputation," he said.
One of the most pressing public-opinion issues is locally known as the "gharimat" case, which refers to the imprisonment of indebted women who fail to make payments on their loans, many of whom claim to have received their microloans from women's funds.
In an attempt to resolve the problem, the government — namely the Zakat Fund affiliated with the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs — has been allocating finances to pay off the women's debts.
Two weeks ago, the fund announced allocating some JD500,000 to make payments for indebted women, primarily those currently incarcerated, then those facing charges.
Ziad Rifai, vice chairman of Tanmeyah, former 12-year director of Tamweelcom and CEO of Ethmar, Jordan's first Islamic microfinance enterprise, spoke extensively to The Jordan Times on the matter.
These issues are attributed in the media to MFIs, which is not true, Rifai and Nammari concurred.
Speaking on behalf of the network, Rifai said: "In 2018, the microfinance sector had more than 300,000 active clients across the Kingdom."
In more than 20 years since the MFI sector was established, no more than 10,000 cases were filed against portfolio at risk (PAR) borrowers, Rifai stated.
PAR borrowers are clients whose non-performing loans have been so for more than 90 and sometimes 120 days, Rifai explained. "Out of all of them, only 100 were tried and sent to prison, in all those years, at the behest of the MFI network. None of them was a woman."
Most of these cases were settled without sentences or jail time, before they actually went to court, Rifai explained. "We do not seek judicial intervention. Why would we? That would only kill the loan, rendering it unsalvageable. We would rather be patient with our borrowers and clients, because once they're sent to prison, the debt is dead."
"We are not the problem," said Nammari.
Claiming to have communicated with correctional facilities' administration, Nammari said that the total number of imprisoned women in Jordan is around 400 in total, for various charges, ranging from drug abuse to burglary, among others.
"We are waiting for an official document from the authorities, but we have not sent any women to jail. Not every women's fund is 'the women's fund'. People have to validate the information they get. Many of those institutions that prey on people are operating illegally and are not members of the network of licensed MFIs. Not to mention credit mediation enterprises," Nammari added.
According to Rifai, there is an inclination to look for more welfare-oriented practices within the sector, such as the 15 Islamic finance instruments increasingly used in microfinance today.
Ethmar, he said, is adopting zero-interest instalment tools to facilitate credit without interest and make profit via commission, as a business development agent for the merchant.
The risk-reward formula is fruitful, he added. "Not only for the zero-interest instalment method, but for all of the company's tools."
Driven by the aspiration to initiate a more "just" and consumer-friendly microfinance sector, Rifai said he looked to utilise instruments of finance consistent with Islam and the local culture, in order to build a more "sustainable" and balanced microcredit environment. For that purpose, Rifai said started Ethmar in 2015.
"It works," he noted.
So far, PAR30 (inactive and unpaid loans for more than 30 days) and debts written off until the third quarter of 2018 do not comprise more than 1.8 per cent and 0.34 per cent of the network's overall portfolio, respectively, Nammari confirmed.
The network's figures show that the formal MFI sector has helped create more than 80,000 job opportunities through more than 1.3 million beneficiaries across the Kingdom.
Meanwhile, bad debt does not exceed 5 per cent, according to the figures Rifai shared with The Jordan Times. "If the financing sector applies all of the instruments of Islamic finance, we can then contribute to building a fairer financial economy."
Predatory banking practices by the unregulated sector are counterproductive to the industry's goals as a predominantly non-profit operation, Nammari reaffirmed.
For the industry as a whole, there is little regulation to keep the lending processes in check, unlike for commercial banks.
"The Central Bank of Jordan does not impose limits on bad debt ratios for MFIs, but based on best practice [benchmarks], there are standard acceptable, recommended limits for these ratios," according to the CBJ.
During its regular on-site and off-site supervision duties, the CBJ monitors and assesses the quality of the loan portfolio of MFIs, and if the bad debt ratio exceeds these benchmark limits, the CBJ can take "any necessary action".
According to Article No. (5/b) of the Instructions of Financial Consumer Protection for Microfinance Sector No. (15/2018), the credit policy of MFIs shall include in the minimum: (1) the maximum threshold of debt burden ratio for borrowers; (2) a clear mechanism for rescheduling non-performing loans; (3) a clear mechanism for group loans, whereby the obligations of all partners are clearly determined.
In light of that, and Article (9/a) of the aforementioned instructions, "MFIs should develop a clear and specified procedure to deal with defaulters and/or consumers with humanitarian conditions and emergency financial difficulties," the CBJ underlined.
This helps keep the formal sector in check, but the absence of regulation to choke the informal sector allows for excessive interest rates and various predatory practices to go unchecked, economists argue.
When talking about banks and financial institutions, these enterprises operate under the central bank's authority as an independent government body the primary and sole fiscal and financial authority, economist Mazen Marji said.
The point of microfinance is very different from that of banks, he noted, adding that "MFIs are driven by societal, developmental purposes".
Unregulated institutions issuing microfinance loans, while operating partially legally, are merely loan sharks, driven entirely by profit, he warned.
"They are profiteering at the expense of people and MFIs alike. I remember attending the first microfinance conference in Jordan, back in the late 1990s. His Royal Highness Prince Hassan inaugurated the conference encompassing all of Jordan's then-charity enterprises. The conference gave way to the conceptualisation of the hybrid sector, bringing about the birth of the non-profit in Jordan, particularly in the field of socioeconomic development. That day, I saw hundreds of loan sharks looking to double their earnings by exploiting the needs of the impoverished and disfranchised," he said.
"Twenty years ago, Jordan received loans from the European Union to develop micro- and small businesses at very low interest rates, as well as grants, but corruption prevented the realisation of this objective," Marji alleged.
Jordan still faces the same problem today, somewhat, with the unregulated sector at least, he said.
"There are too many enterprises operating in the sector, formally and informally, within the MFI network and beyond, that do not follow a unified point of reference or authority. Meanwhile, the government seems to be oblivious to how further taxation on MFI operations will hurt both the sector and the borrowers. All of this affects the added value of the sector," Nammari highlighted.
On the other hand, there are challenges within the regulated sector itself, including policy and fiscal issues that sector representatives claim hinder MFI growth.
Sectoral challenges
The costs of borrowing and lending for MFIs remain high, Nammari argued, which is reflected in the sector's average lending rates.
"Authorities should work on the development of sustainable sources of funding for MFIs, to enable optimal microfinance operations. The bank's 9 per cent interest rate is our zero; our baseline. Not to mention taxation," he added.
MFIs face various sectoral and policy challenges, and taxation does not help, financial economist, Al Ghad columnist and head of the economics department Yousef Damra told The Jordan Times.
Read more on the challenges and issues resulting from fiscal and taxation policies hindering the sector, in the next article on the microfinance paradox, in Wednesday's edition.
Additional reporting by Johanne Kalsaas
The microfinance paradox: 'lax' regulations boost sector growth but predatory practices go unchecked
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TypeAdult Services - Adults Speech & Language Therapy Services
Our team at Brackley Health Centre provides individual assessment, treatment, training, education and support to adults over the age of 16, helping to improve speech, language and swallowing. We will support you to reach and maintain your best level of communication, as well as your capability for eating and drinking.
Visit our Adult Speech and Language overview page for more information on this service and referral details.
AddressBrackley Health Centre, 68 Halse Road, Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 6EJ
Contact us and opening hours
Brackley Health Centre
68 Halse Road, Brackley
Telephone: 01208 704336
Clinics: Mondays 13.30-17.00
Accessibility Information
For disabled access information at this site please click here.


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Unfinished turquoise nuggets are set into minimalist sterling silver stud settings. They have a beautiful robin's egg blue aqua color and may or may not include dark matrix patterns (feel free to make requests in the Notes box at checkout!). These are genuine natural turquoise stones and solid sterling silver settings.
Earrings are 7-10mm.


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As the Baltimore Ravens training camp ends at McDaniel College in Westminister, Maryland, the Ravens coaching staff is preparing to select the final 53 man roster due on September 1 along with an 8 man practice squad on September 2. Coach Brian Billick has characterized this training camp as the best one that he has been associated with in his nine years as head coach of the Ravens with no major injuries to front-line players. In all likelihood, 46 of the 53 man team has already been predetermined barring injury of this veteran-ladened group plus some very talented rookies.
General Manager Ozzie Newsome and Eric DeCosta, the Ravens Director of College Scouting, have done a spectacular job of drafting college players that fit the mold of Ravens-type players, particularly the past two drafts in 2006 and 2007. The 2006 rookie crop included immediate starters in defensive tackle Haloti Ngata, safety Dawan Landry and punter Sam Koch, along with center Chris Chester, wide receiver Demetrius Williams and tight end Quinn Sypniewski.
The 2007 crop showcased draft choices starting with linebackers Antwan Barnes and Prescott Burgess, guard Ben Grubbs, guard/tackle Marshall Yanda, wide receiver as well as special teams gunner Yamon Figurs and fullback Le'Ron McClain. In addition, the Ravens selected 2007 supplemental draft pick tackle Jared Gaither forfeiting a 2008 5th round draft choice. Grubbs, Gaither, McClain, Barnes and Burgess should make an immediate impact with the potential to be future starters.
With still 10 days prior to the cutdown date and based on the current players on the roster, here is my prediction on the final 53 Ravens squad to start the 2007 season:
QB: McNair, Boller (2)
RB: McGahee,
FB: Green, McClain (2)
WR: Mason, Clayton, Williams, Moore (4)
TE: Heap, Wilcox, Sypniewski (3)
DL: Pryce, Gregg, Ngata, Bannan, Edwards (5)
LB: Suggs, Lewis, Scott, Johnson, Stills, Barnes, Burgess, Jones (8)
CB: McAlister, Rolle, Ivy, Prude, Pittman, Oglesby, Martin (7)
FS/SS: Reed, Landry, Sapp (3)
ST: Stover, Koch, Katula, Sams, Figurs (6)
PS: Olsen,
Also, linebackers Dan Cody and Mike Smith will probably remain on the physically-unable-to-perform (PUP) list when the regular season begins which means they cannot join the roster until after six weeks of the regular season has elapsed.


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Self Catering Home Constantia
This self catering home Constantia is a 4 bedroom holiday home situated in Constantia, the upmarket residential area. It is nestled in the heart of Constantia's rich heritage and luscious wine valleys, a close walk away from five of South Africa's top wine estates.
It is only a minutes drive from the stylish Constantia Mall with its fashionable shops and restaurants and in close proximity to Cape Town's top attractions; Kirstenbosch gardens, award winning restaurants and top golf courses.
It is a twenty-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport, the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town City Centre and the Cape's stunning beaches.
There are four en suite bedrooms in this self catering home Constantia which flow off the open-plan living area and have sliding doors that open onto patios offering views of the mountain, valley and lush garden.
The suites all offer under-floor heating, heated towel rails, satellite TV, pure 100 percent Percale bed linen and private safes. In-house services available to guests, on request, are; spa-treatments, personal trainer, chef, travel guides and travel transport services.
General features of this self catering home Constantia
- Airport Shuttle Service
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Would you like to enquire about this self catering home Constantia?
Then just fill out our Enquiry form and we will get back to you with rates and availability. Should this home not be available, we can suggest similar accommodation in Constantia to you.


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Kissable camels now at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo
Beginning this weekend, two camels will call Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo home through Labor Day.
"Kids of all ages are welcome to climb aboard these camels for an experience they won't soon forget," said Gregg Dancho, zoo director. "While we don't encourage kissing the camels, we're sure that photos of these guys will be popping up on social media sites (#ctbzoo) all summer long."
The camels, named Toby and Goliath, can be found on the greenhouse lawn and rides will be available from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for $5 per person, which includes a photo.
Visitors will be able to purchase ride tickets at the front gate, gift shop, carousel, and at the camel ride. While there are no age restrictions for riders, anyone 5 years old and younger requires an adult rider with them.
The zoo also is offering a combo ticket for both a carousel and camel ride for $6.
Summer programming for families
Toby and Goliath are Dromedary camels, meaning they have one hump.
Their summer stay at the Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport off Route 8's Exit 5 is part of the zoo's special programming for families.
In recent years, the zoo has offered a free flight bird show, Rainforest Reptiles and, in 2012, large Galapagos tortoises.
Fun camel facts
Here are fun camel facts, courtesy of Environmental Graffiti:
— Bactrian camels have two humps while Dromedary camels have one hump. (Toby and Goliath are Dromedary camels.)
— The name "camel" comes from Arabic, meaning "beauty."
— A camel's hump stores fat, and not water as many believe.
— Camels can drink up to 40 gallons at one time.
— Camels can go for long periods of time without drinking because of the shape of their red blood cells, which are oval. They are the only mammals to have this kind of blood cell.
— Camels can kick in all four directions with each leg.
— Camels can eat anything without injuring their mouths, including thorny twigs.
— Camels can close their nostrils against wind and sand when necessary.
— Their coats reflect sunlight and insulate them from the desert heat.
— "Spitting" is a way that camels defend themselves. And they don't actually spit but rather throw up a nasty smelling fluid when provoked.
About Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo features 300 animals representing primarily North and South American species. This includes Amur (Siberian) tigers, Brazilian ocelot, red wolves, and golden lion tamarins.
Other highlights at the facility are the South American rainforest and free-flight aviary; prairie dog exhibit with "pop-up" viewing areas; New England Farmyard with goats, cows, pigs, sheep and other barnyard critters; hoofstock trail with bison, pronghorn and deer; indoor carousel, and outdoor picnic grove. Find out more at www.beardsleyzoo.org.


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Sian's Christmas Club - A late entry!
We have always told Gracia that Santa brings her presents but that we pay him for them. This was because when she was little we were very strapped for cash and I worried that she would think that Santa liked her friend Emma more than he liked her as Emma always had huge expensive Christmas presents. So the solution was to say that we paid Santa and as Gracia knew that Emma's parents could afford larger presents that was ok.
When Gracia was about 3 all she wanted for Christmas was a doll called 'Potty Training Shelly'. Shelly is Barbie's little sister and this doll was quite expensive and I knew it would be a five minute wonder. I said that I was not going to ask Santa to bring it as I thought there were other things he would bring that she would like more.
But all she asked for was 'Potty Training Shelly'! Not one to go back on my word once I had said no I had to find a solution. It was easy really because 1997 was the year that Santa started to bring a naughty present, just from him. We always leave Gracia's presents on the sofa and that scamp of a Santa placed a present amongst the ones from us, it was wrapped in the same paper as those in her stocking, which everyone knows are from Santa and can you guess what was in that rogue parcel - yep you're right it was a Potty Training Shelly. He must have known how much she had wanted it. True to form the doll was played with twice and never taken out of its box again after Boxing Day - I knew it would have limited appeal but my little three year old didn't!
Every year since then, Santa has left a naughty present for Gracia nestling amongst the ones we have for her, it is usually one we definitely don't approve of, these have ranged from Beano Club membership - to one year when he was naughty beyond compare and left her a remote controlled fart machine! Last year he left some very skimpy panties and this year he has his present all ready to be wrapped. So the naughty Santa present became a family tradition which has given us so much laughter over the years and all because a mean mum could not be seen to back down on a decision!
Reasons to be cheerful:
1. After a couple of days battling flu and a chest infection, today I am beginning to feel human again.
2. Accidental traditions that make our Christmas special.
3. Friends whose blogs inspire you.


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As an Associate Career Services Director for the University of Michigan and the CEO of Break into Tech, I've had the privilege to work with hundreds of students during the job search while trying to launch their careers. And it's an area I'm particularly proud to support, having leveraged my own student experience to land roles at Apple, LinkedIn, and startups.
But the one thing that shocks me time and again is that 95% of students make the same mistake when it comes to landing a job. And no, it's not a bad resume, or a poorly written cover letter or even weak interview skills. Instead, it's that most basic trait:
Yes, humility.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "Huh? How hard could it be to act humble?"
But here's the real deal. That same confidence is a handicap. Because it blinds students to just how hard it is to stay humble in a world where everyone always has to be on, to constantly present their best self.
As evidence, allow me to submit my experience as a Michigan alum working at LinkedIn:
On the other hand, about 2-3 times a year, the sequence would go very differently:
And sure enough, about 2-3 times a year, I'd write an internal recommendation for a student, basically guaranteeing them an interview.
Now, any guesses which students I went to bat for?
Hopefully that illuminates two things about the job search:
Which means no:
So consider yourself warned. Yes, humility is critical to your job search success. But don't assume it's going to be easy. Instead, make it a priority and work hard at it. And then you can avoid the biggest mistake that's trapped so many others!
Need more help networking and figuring out how to build great relationships on your way to finding a great entry-level job? College Recruiter can help. Keep reading our blog and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
Jeremy Schifeling is the Founder + Chief Nerd at Break into Tech, a site for anyone who wants to land an awesome tech job, no matter their background. Get a free guide to the seven ultimate secrets that took Jeremy from school to Silicon Valley!
Everyone is nervous heading into their last year of college (except for those going to grad school, that is). It's time recent graduates prove to themselves, and probably to their parents, that all of this was worth it; they can get entry-level jobs, get out on their own, support themselves, and start on a career path. It is probably their family's hope that grads will conduct their job search seriously, and look at companies/organizations that promise a bright future. They've attended their first job fair, passed out their resumes, spoken with corporate recruiters, and some seemed interested. But something doesn't "feel" right in their gut. There's no excitement about all of this.
As recent graduates reflect on why they lack excitement, their minds go to the concept of a "corporate" environment with everyone playing their roles, a pretty large bureaucracy, policies, set work hours; "a single cog in a very large machine you will be," as Yoda would say. Then there's the office politics grads studied about in those business courses. Somehow, it doesn't seem right. They're thinking about their future success, which doesn't include what the "big boys" offer. Recent grads need to look elsewhere.
Graduates need to consider working for a startup. Now their parents and some of their friends might think they're a bit nuts. There's no job security, as 50% of all startups fail within five years, and then where will they be? Mom may be wringing her hands. However, this isn't their parents' world anymore, and there are large advantages to taking this path right now in their lives when they have no obligations other than to themselves.
Flexibility and continuous learning
Most start-ups do not have "pigeon-hole" jobs. They will demand everyone pitch in when and where it is needed. Graduates may have a "job title," but that will not mean a great deal. They'll have a skill others may not, but they will be required to learn everyone's job and everyone will be required to learn some of their job. This environment means continuous learning.
What's the other great thing? Grads will be forced out of their "comfort zone" into exciting challenges; things can change on a dime, and they will need to change with them. If graduates really enjoy risks and challenges, they'll love it.
Discover new talents
With all of the emphasis on pitching in, group decision-making, and problem-solving, recent grads may find they have creative talents and current skills they never knew or nurtured. They will be far more well-rounded in what they know and what they can do.
Learn how to budget
Pay is generally not the best for those who join startups. In fact, no one joins a startup for the salary. Graduates will often have to continue living like poor students, but they know how to do it. They'll stretch those dollars, shop at thrift stores, and eat Ramen noodles sometimes. So what? Grads will also learn how to budget and be frugal.
Work with passionate people
Enthusiasm is contagious, and that is one of the great things about startups. Everyone comes to work excited about the day and their projects. Everyone shares in each other's successes (and pumps each other up when there are failures). Grads, too, will be excited about getting up every morning and getting to work; many people in the corporate world would love to have that feeling.
Learn entrepreneurship
Forecasters predict small businesses will be more a wave of the future than large corporations. Why? First, corporations continue to expand globally and set up headquarters in other countries. Second, people no longer trust large corporations like they used to. These giants have taken big tumbles in recent years and no longer provide job security to their employees. It is the small business that is trending now. Working for a startup gives employees valuable experience in becoming small business owners at some point, if they should choose to head in that direction.
Push through failure
Most startups have their failures. The good ones with resilient employees move forward, learning from the failure but never losing the enthusiasm for what they are doing. It's good to experience failure when young; it is a wonderful teacher. If that startup goes "belly up," think of all the lessons employees have learned in the meantime.
Potentially invest or be given a stake
A lot of startups value their original people, and founders will give those people a stake in the company. Many people became millionaires because they started out with Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, or Mark Zuckerberg. Having a stake in a company at a young age is a great thing.
Love the Culture
Flexible hours are a big plus. Value is not based upon the number of hours worked. It is based on what employees produce. They may work several 18 hour-long days, only to sleep in late for several days after that and only put in four hours or so.
Dress is a big factor for many job seekers. If they love a jeans and flip-flop environment, taking their dogs to work, letting their hair grow, or sporting a tattoo, they will find the startup environment is where they want to be.
Choosing the right startup
Startups come in all different stages of development. Choosing one should be based on job seekers' level of risk tolerance, their investigation of the founder(s), and their passions for the product(s) or services being developed. Nothing is carved in stone; if one idea doesn't work out, there are many others to try.
Need career advice as a recent graduate? Go to our blog and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.
Rick Riddle is passionate about the self-development process and wants to share his experience with more people via his articles. He believes self-sufficiency and discipline lead to great results. Follow him on Twitter.
Considering the economy and technology are on the upswing, many recent grads start their careers while studying at college. And we are not talking about part-time at the campus café; college students often have jobs that bring them valuable professional experience, and ensure a tangible level of income. So when graduation day comes, college students are not a bunch of scared rookies but professionals with decent backgrounds in their fields. Nevertheless, there is still a question: what form of employment is worth the effort? Startups and freelancing look more attractive, yet they conceal many tricky pitfalls. As for good old full-time employment, it needs serious reshaping and improvement to attract young professionals. There are at least three employment options for recent grads, but which option is best?
It is all in the mindset
According to recent surveys, three out of five students expect they will be able to work remotely, and less than a half of 18-29 year olds employed are working full-time. It is not a crisis or an unexpected epidemic given that youth follow the elder generations; Gen Z (this is how sociologists and HR experts categorize people born in the mid to late 1990s through the 2010s) had a Millennials rise as a model to follow. The same surveys indicate about 30% of Gen Y started businesses while in college, and about 91% are considering changing their current jobs within three years. With this in mind, we can tell the younger generation has been raised in the spirit of freedom and solopreneurship, now demanding a different approach from HR departments and recruiters. Yet, the last say goes to employees, and here are things they should consider before accepting job offers and jump into their careers or solo businesses. Let's take a look at each of the following three employment options for recent grads to consider.
Start a company
Starting your own company is rather challenging, though many examples have proven it to be successful. The idea is to push your passion into profit and convince others that your business is worth all the efforts.
Startup advantages:
– Working for yourself
– Creating great financial opportunities
– Implementing your own ideas
– Great life experience
Startup disadvantages:
– Tough competition
– Investments needed
– Lack of "job security"
– Startup is riskier and more costly
Understand that starting your own business calls for an award-winning concept necessary to enter the entrepreneurial world. Those who choose to make such a living should be patient, as niche startups are likely to bear fruit no sooner than 12 months after launch.
Freelancing is actually quite similar to starting your own business. On the one hand, it comes rather risky though you do not have to invest. On the other hand, you are free to follow your commitments with passion and drive.
Freelancing advantages:
– Benefit from flexible hours (Sleep until noon, if you like. No one will ever bother you unless the project deadline is approaching)
– Take control of your customers and tasks (Choose whom you are going to work with and opt for the most appealing tasks)
– Keep all the profits (You are the boss. You don't have to split the profit or pay salaries, yet be aware of taxation and other expenses)
– Stay wherever you want (Freelancing is perfect for a travelling enthusiast)
Freelancing disadvantages:
– Lack of steady workloads (At some point, you can suffer from the lack of orders unless you've managed to create a solid customer base)
– Insecurity (There are numerous occasions when freelancers are not paid or become victims of fraud)
– You pay for yourself (No social package or any other benefits provided by the employer. You're the boss, remember?)
Full-time job
The most influential thing about a full-time job is a contract and guaranteed salary in addition to employer's benefits, a workplace provided, and more. However, the current economic situation will hardly provide you with total job and financial security, while being hopeless in enabling your professional development.
Full-time advantages:
– Steady salary (Your monthly payment is guaranteed)
– Governmental and social securities (Your contact is protected by social and economic policies)
– Constant workload (You will never witness a lack of tasks and duties)
Full-time disadvantages:
– Heavy workload (Too much work is not good for you. It results in stress and health problems in addition to a lack of personal time)
– Lack of professional development (You can stick to a routine without the slightest chance to develop your skills)
– Not enough salary (You will hardly find employees who are satisfied with their monthly salaries. Always keep in mind that every employer is eager to cut down on expenses. Salary is a key point in the list of expenses)
Each working arrangement comes with pros and cons. The best way to make up your mind is to consider every point we have discussed. No matter what you choose, get pleasure from what you are doing and never hesitate to make a crucial step and change your life for the better.
Need more advice regarding employment options? Search for jobs with College Recruiter and check out our blog. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.
Justine Thomas is a blogger and freelance writer. Her main interests are foreign languages, psychology, and fitness. Currently, she is working at educational company, Edubirdie.com, as a consulting editor.
Recruiters should watch out for hiring trends in college recruiting in 2016. One trend is connecting with college students on LinkedIn. By engaging with potential candidates sooner rather than later, small companies will have a chance to compete with large companies for the best talent. Dennis Theodorou, Executive Search Expert and Vice President of Operations at JMJ Phillip Executive Search, discusses this trend as it relates to his company and others.
"One major tip we are giving clients and something we have been actively doing in the last two years is connecting with candidates on LinkedIn prior to their graduation, as early as one to two years before graduation. At that point in their careers, our companies and other companies often setup pre-interviews or bring candidates onsite for mixers or for "learn what we do" type-of days, offering a unique, hands-on, real world experience.
A big issue small and medium-sized companies need to accommodate is all the large corporations are picking up a good portion of the graduating class before these smaller companies ever get a shot. As a smaller company, we have had to become more aggressive for our internal hiring and for our clients to gain an edge and earn the attention of top talent. If recruiters and hiring managers cannot get recent graduates or college upperclassmen interested in their companies way before graduation, it's likely they will lose these candidates due to high profile startups and large Fortune 1000's hitting campuses with presentation days – nearly automatically placing them lower on students' interest and priority scale before even having a chance.
As employers, capture their minds early, and you will increase your odds greatly, but you have to be highly proactive."
At College Recruiter, we believe every student and recent graduate deserves a great career, and we are committed to creating a quality candidate and recruiter experience. Our interactive media solutions connect students and graduates to great careers. Let College Recruiter assist you in the recruiting process. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook for more information about the best practices in college recruiting.
Mr. Dennis Theodorou has more than 15 years of operational excellence and executive experience across multiple industries including: Executive Search, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Retail and Hospitality. Mr. Theodorou graduated with a bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management from the leading supply chain management college in the world, Michigan State University. He has continued his education through graduate-level course work at Harvard University. As a development agent for Subway, he managed and led an entire region of store locations including the management of self-owned stores, franchise development, real estate, and area management. As a national expert in hiring, he has hired more than 700 employees over his entire career span and works hand-in-hand with companies to help on board top talent. Currently as Vice President of JMJ Phillip, he manages a portfolio of executive recruiting and employment service brands, spanning multiple locations and across nearly all verticals.
If you are a recent graduate and striving to setup your own startup business, there are a number of ways which can be used to collect money but you still need to be sure what kind of funding method will really suit your business type. Though, it is not a rocket science to understand available options, it is quite crucial to analyze your business from all angles to bring it on its feet. You might have a really great business idea but you should always remember that just one mistake can take you away from lots of funding opportunities and therefore, you must know what you actually need to do at this stage. Some available options for recent graduates to fund startups: (more…)
There is no doubt that the much coveted Masters degree in Business Administration, that is, the MBA is a degree which can completely change your life, granting you access to higher rungs of the ladder, and a whole new administrative expertise to spearhead projects with. There are various different MBA courses available, one of which is the Executive MBA degree.
It is a graduate level degree, with the distinguishing factor being that one needs 3-5 years professional experience to apply for the course, and also that he would not need to quit his day job to accommodate the course into his schedule. It is a highly specialized course, targeted at managers and administrators who wish to enrich their careers. You could learn more about PGDM and other courses too, but an EMBA is one of the best options to give a boost to your career.
Career Prospects after the Executive MBA (more…)
The economy is always changing to meet demand and circumstances. Whether it's newly developed technology or shifting demographics, more plentiful and diverse opportunities are becoming available for college graduates. Not every part of the US is kind to graduates of any discipline, of course. This article should be able to provide insight on where demand is highest for particular fields of study: (more…)
If you are a student and you want to create your own startup, you have to face many difficulties. One of them is a limited budget. Don't worry – it will not be the worst of your problems and it is definitely not a good reason to give up on your dream. I would like to offer you five tips that will help you to manage your money well. (more…)
Nowadays it is very popular among students to despise every kind of office work. We are obsessed with the ideas of startups and exciting jobs, tightly connected with travelling and interesting tasks. However, being an office monkey is not that bad – your fate could be much, much harder. So, whenever you start whining about hardships of the office life next time, while sitting in a comfortable office armchair and sipping from a cup of hot coffee, just think of the following list of seven jobs not a single sane person would want to have, though they are much more necessary and useful than most office positions. (more…)
If you have thought about running your own tech business without pursuing your MBA, it may not be out of the question. There are some people you have probably heard of who've accomplished this task. On the other hand, the more knowledge you get before attempting to start a company can only better prepare you. Either way, here is an infographic to help you learn more about having your own startup. (more…)
Top Internships for Students
Popular Jobs for Recent Grads
Jobs in Growing Industries


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If you have recently found out you are expecting your first child, you may have already started looking around for a trustworthy OB-GYN who is capable of providing high quality prenatal care for you and your baby. When you do thorough research to find a doctor who you trust and are comfortable working with, you can feel more confident about the protection of your health and your baby's safe delivery. At Haberkorn & Associates, we are experienced with the risks that California women face during the process of delivering a baby.
Doctors who do not exhibit the qualities of a reliable professional may be at an even higher risk of committing medical malpractice if they are distracted, careless or inexperienced. According to Baby Center, your search for an OBGYN who is vigilant, thorough and committed to patient care can be facilitated when you look for certain characteristics. Some of the things you should look for include the following:
- Respect: Even though you will receive reminders not to miss your appointments, your doctor should be equally as respectful of your time and the schedule you have created. You may wish to ask potential doctors about their wait times so you can find one who is committed to staying on time.
- Empathy: Your doctor should show a genuine interest in the things that concern you, things you are excited about and things you may be confused about. When your doctor shows a desire to empathize with your feelings, you can feel better about trusting him or her with your health.
- Credentials: There is nothing wrong with asking a doctor to see his or her credentials. You may also use their website as a source of research information where you can see which affiliations they have that are relevant to their practice and experience.
By taking the time to find a doctor who exhibits the qualities of professionalism and is able to relate to you on a personal level, you can feel much more confident in his or her ability to provide quality treatment for you and your baby. For more information about staying safe from medical malpractice, visit our web page.


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- About
- Support
- Trails
- Fiver
- News
- Calendar
Cynthia Young
Director of Membership & Community Partnerships
As a rider of the north shore since the mid90's and a mountain bike instructor, coach and guide in our community for over a decade, I have a broad and unique perspective on our trail infrastructure and the local ridership. As a mother of two young shredders, I have a desire to see mountain biking stay sustainable on the shore for generations to come and to ensure that there are trails that provide a positive riding experience for new participants of the sport.
In addition to raising the future generation of mountain bikers, I have worked in a variety of roles, including marketing, sales, program development, event planning, and volunteer coordination.
My focus for 2017 is on growing community involvement, awareness of our organization and increasing membership numbers. If you see me in the forest, please say hi!


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An Amazing Lebanese Wedding at Regent Porto Montenegro
Andrea and I have been looking to visit the city of Tivat for a while now, but had never managed to find the time. Then one day our friends over at And Then We Got Married sent over an email asking if we would like to film a wedding at Regent Porto Montenegro. We took it as a sign and said "Hell Yes"!
Story of the Day
Montenegro is a stunning location with beautiful calm waters lapping over the coast with rolling hills in the backdrop. This is precisely one of the reasons Sawsan and Faysal decided that they wanted to getting married here. From their home in Dubai they brought over their dearest to watch them get married around the stunning views that Regent Porto Montenegro offered.


text: Secret Bookcase Door / video tilted sideways By StashVault on September 29, 2011 in Stash Pics The video is tilted sideways, but this secret bookcase door slides straight back into a small room. They use some type of hanger/slides at the top of the bookcase. This gives me some ideas. bookcase, concealed, door, hidden, moving, rails, room, secret, sliding


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Have you heard so many horrifying stories about home improvement projects that you are hesitant to take on your own renovation projects? Had these people done their research on home improvements, these horror stories probably wouldn't have existed. Make sure that you're not the next person on the block with a sad, scary story to tell. Check out this article and learn about home improvements.
When planning a home renovation with your contractor, be honest about your budget. While many homeowners fear that they will get ripped off by a contractor if it is known how much money they have to spend, the reality is that being honest will get you better results. The contractor is free to budget for better work and higher-quality materials if they know your true cost ceiling.
Don't plan a home renovation just because you can or just because you have the money. Many times, projects that are designed for the sake of being projects end up missing some other vital component of a home renovation, such as being non-value-adding changes or even causing the home to break local building codes.
An easy and cost effective way to spruce up your home is by painting the interior. To estimate the amount of paint you need, you have to calculate the square footage of the walls. Simply multiply the length of the wall by its height. One gallon of paint will cover approximately 350 square feet. Bear in mind that you may need two coats of paint, depending on what color you are painting over.
Try adding some solar panels to the outside of your home for a home improvement project. This may cost you a lot of money at first, but with electricity costs going up, you may discover it saves you a pretty penny in the long run. This can help you to save a significant amount on your electricity bills since your home will be using mostly the stored energy coming from the sun. Improvements in solar tech have made this a viable alternative energy source.
Gardens add to the overall beauty of your home. Consider upgrading or adding one to your residence should you be preparing to sell. Gardens help the buyer to see greater possibilities with the home and allows them to envision all the things they could do to the property themselves.
Waste disposal is an important part of any home improvement project. Make arrangements in advance for storing and removing the debris that your next project is going to create. Getting rid of all that debris can be a big expense, so it is critical that you plan ahead in order to economize and avoid delays with regard to your project.
When trying to fix up a house to flip it, pay attention to the kitchen. If has linoleum floors, replace them with tile. It makes the place look much better. You should examine the counters and look at replacing them. They don't have to be granite, but granite counter tops increase the value of the home and up your chances of selling it.
In conclusion, by gathering information first, you can avoid home improvement nightmares. Yet, since you've read this article, you can avoid a problem like this and focus on improving your home.


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Web site ezRSS is yet another web site designed to help you "subscribe" to your favorite TV shows via BitTorrent so your download automatically starts as soon as a new episode is available (known as broadcatching).
We've seen a couple of similar offerings in the past, including previously mentioned FeedMyTorrents (now dead) and tvRSS (which is also defunct and now actually redirects to ezRSS), but ezRSS comes from the folks at EZTV, probably the most popular TV torrent release group.
Need a little help setting up broadcatching with your BitTorrent client? Check out ezRSS's guide to using the RSS feed with uTorrent, or follow our previous instructions on how to get your TV season pass (substitute ezRSS for tvRSS in that post and you should be good to go). In the meantime, let's hear how you automate your downloads in the comments.
Continua a leggere – Original Link: ezRSS Provides BitTorrent Feeds of Your Favorite TV Shows [BitTorrent]
Technorati Tags: Backup, chrome-updates, diy, health, lifestyle, parentnode, Peer-to-peer, Windows
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Tried or prescribed Blood Transfusion? Share your experience. Have you?
I'm a professional and
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A blood transfusion is the delivery of blood products through a vein. The blood products may be red cells, white cells, platelets, clotting factors, plasma, or whole blood. The blood may come from an unrelated or related donor, or it may have been taken from the recipient and stored in advance.
A blood transfusion should help increase your level of blood cells or other specific blood products. It may be needed if you have:
- Blood and fluid loss due to injury, surgery, or disease
- Severe anemia
- Bleeding disorders, such as von Willebrand's disease or hemophilia
- Poor immune system
- Leukemia
- Diseases that result in destruction of blood cells or bone marrow
- Side effects of certain medicines (eg, chemotherapy for cancer)
Possible Complications
Your doctor will review any possible complications with you. Complications from a blood transfusion are rare but may include:
- Allergic reactions due to the mismatching of blood types can occur but are very rare.
- Certain infections, such as hepatitis or HIV , can be passed on during blood...
Call Your Doctor
After arriving home, contact your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction or infection, such as:
- New rash, hives , or itching
- Swelling in legs, feet, hands, arms, or face
- Dizziness
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- New onset of pain, especially in the back or chest
- Shortness of breath, wheezing
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge where the needle was inserted
In case of emergency, CALL 911.


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What refugees take when they flee
Emma Batha –
When Syrian refugee Zakaria Alssayadi fled his village he grabbed his passport, money and the plain white vest his beloved brother was wearing the day he died of cancer.
Fellow refugee Amal Tayyawi took a bracelet given by her sister, Anas Humidy picked up his poetry, Kawther Jahwani her coffee pot and five-year-old Nizar Rastnawi his Spiderman costume.
These treasured items and the stories behind them feature in a film project by the charity International Medical Corps which aims to put a human face on the refugee crisis.
The videos were filmed in Turkey which hosts more than 2.7 million of the 11 million Syrians uprooted from their homes since the war began in 2011.
Many of those who fled bombings had no time to pack and could only bring their most valuable things.
For Alssayadi that was his brother's vest. "When I hold it in my hands, it's bittersweet," he says in the film as he chokes back tears.
"I feel happiness because it's something of his — I feel like he's next to me — but I also feel sadness because he died. His smell, it's still there."
Cameraman Salam Rizek, who was born in Syria, said The Things We Carry project would encourage people to think about which single item they would pick if they were in the same position.
"Everybody has a house and things they like. This will help people identify with refugees as human beings rather than see them as numbers," he said at a London launch event last week.
In one of the 11 vignettes, former finance student Amal Tayyawi, 23, tells how she took the black bead bracelet given to her by her sister who remains in Syria, trapped in a village surrounded by IS.
"There was no time to pack. The only thing I took is my bracelet," says Tayyawi, recalling the day she fled shelling near her home in Hama.
She had to be carried by her brother because an earlier airstrike had left her with a broken back. Now receiving treatment in Turkey, she only removes the bracelet during operations.
"The bracelet gives me strength. When I am wearing it I feel like my sister is still with me," she says.
Tayyawi wishes she had taken her university books, "but when the explosions begin you don't have time to think about what you will take".
Jahwani's 15-year-old metal coffee pot looks like any other, but the memories imbued in it are irreplaceable. It has been everywhere with her — to the olive groves during harvest time and on summer picnics with her children.
She left when bombs started falling on the mosque next to her home in Homs.
"In one night we abandoned everything it took us 25 years to build," Jahwani says.
The 50-year-old grandmother now lives in a shop storeroom, her pot a reminder of happier times. "When I drink my coffee I am transported back to Syria," she says.
Former policeman and keen poet Humidy left for Turkey after a rocket attack in a market killed five friends and left him with a serious leg injury.
He left the southern city of Deir al-Zour at night with a handful of his poetry notebooks. Several contained poems criticising IS that could have got him arrested.
"We were afraid of both the regime and ISIS. We had no time to pack or prepare, everything was done in secrecy," he says.
Humidy lives in a rehabilitation centre in Sanliurfa where he is receiving physiotherapy.
International Medical Corps, which runs nine health centres for refugees across southern Turkey, said it saw hundreds of new cases of people disabled by conflict every month. It also highlighted a desperate shortage of psychiatrists to treat high levels of mental trauma.
Humidy takes comfort in rereading his old poems, but he has not written since arriving in Turkey.
"I have not yet found the peace I need to pick up the pen again," he says.
— Thomson Reuters Foundation


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Natural Sport Raspberry Ketones Mega Review
Raspberry is not just a delicious fruit for munching on anymore. Now it is all about the ketones, that have become a backbone of modern weight loss. Supplement after supplement is including raspberry ketones and seeing positive reviews from those who are using the products. While nothing is overwhelmingly a miracle "weight-loss cure-all," it seems that advancements are helping these supplements inch closer and closer to that promise. This review of Natural Sport Raspberry Ketones Mega provides an introduction to and details about one such supplement and gives you all the information necessary to decide if it is right for you.
Raspberry Ketones – This ingredient is said to break down fat cells in your body to allow your metabolism to burn them off more easily. In addition, ketones have been shown to boost the effectiveness of your metabolism, effectively burning more calories and fat in your body even when you aren't actively exercising.
L-Phenylalanine – Appetite suppressant
L-Tyrosine – Increases the body's ability to absorb essential amino acids that help boost metabolism.
It is recommended to take two capsules a day, both at the same time, with either a full glass of water or a meal. This is generally on par with most of the supplements that are like this.
Possible Side Effects
There are more than the generic warnings that you will find on all of the supplements like this warning those that might be pregnant, nursing or taking other medications to speak with their doctors first. There is a specific warning listed citing the likelihood of complications that could result from using this product along with a prescription MAO inhibitor. So it would be advisable to seek out the expertise of a medical professional if you fall into this category and still wish to start a regimen of this supplement.
For 45 servings of two capsules, the average cost online for this supplement is around $13. With the average cost of supplements like this being much higher for a shorter supply, the value of this purchase is something worth mentioning. If this is indeed an effective product for those that use it, the cost is well below what it would typically be for competitor's offerings.
As far as we could find during our research, there is no clear guarantee to be seen. Individual retailers might offer money-back guarantees to promote customer loyalty, but as far as the manufacturer is concerned, there is no guarantee to be found. This is a little disconcerting because such guarantees ensure buyers that the company believes in its own product, and a lack of a guarantee means that they might have their doubts.
Conclusion of Our Natural Sport Raspberry Ketones Mega Review
You might look at this product and think: Inexpensive with proven effective ingredients. All good. But is that all that you need? You might pause when you consider that there are few reviews online and no manufacturer-backed money-back guarantee.
Ultimately it is your decision, but we would advise you consider the pros and cons of this product carefully before buying.


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Swedish metallers DREAMLAND, who were discovered and produced by Andy LaRocque (KING DIAMOND) and Joacim Cans (HAMMERFALL), have uploaded their video for the track "Fade Away" at this location (video pops up in separate window). The song comes off the group's full-length debut, "Future's Calling", which was released last week via Dockyard 1, the new company formed by Dirk Putzke, Christine Stephan (both ex-Sanctuary/Noise Records) and Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR).
DREAMLAND will be supporting NOCTURNAL RITES on December 15 at Musikens Hus in Gothenburg, Sweden.


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I just got The Banker magazine's February issue discussing the top banking brands of the world. Timely, as I have been talking about trust and brands this week. In particular, I guess I was surprised the Chinese banks are the strongest brands across the board in 2018, with the top 10 names being:
Rank, Name, Country, Brand Value, Last year's position
- ICBC, China, $59.2bn (1)
- China Construction Bank, China, $56.8bn (3)
- Wells Fargo, USA, $44.1bn (2)
- Bank of China, China, $41.8bn (5)
- Chase, USA, $38.8bn (4)
- Agricultural Bank of China, China, $37.3bn (7)
- Bank of America, USA, $33.3bn (6)
- Citi, USA, $30.8bn (8)
- HSBC, UK, $18.3bn (9)
- JPMorgan, USA, $17.7bn (11)
Compare this with just seven years ago, when the 2011 list was released:
- Wells Fargo, USA, $28.9bn (2)
- Bank of America, USA, $26.7bn (1)
- Bradesco, Brazil, $18.3bn (4)
- Santander, Spain, $17.0bn (3)
- ICBC, China, $16.8bn (6)
- China Construction Bank, China, $16.8bn (5)
- Itau, Brazil, $16.7bn (13)
- Chase, USA, $14.2bn ((9)
- Bank of China, China, $12.9bn (10)
- BNP Paribas, France, $12.8bn (8)
What's happened to the European and Brazilian bank brands? Oh yes, a sovereign debt crisis and a rotten economic record in Brazil. That left the way open for the American and Chinese banks, and the Chinese have taken over.
I said this ten years ago. Here's an extract from a chapter I wrote for The Future of Banking book back in 2006:
The re-energising of Chinese banking will continue. This was demonstrated by the flotation of the Industrial & Commercial Bank of China (ICBI) on 20 October 2006.
The IPO turned out to be the largest the world has ever seen, with the $19 billion sale dwarfing the $12 billion raised from 53 IPOs in the second half of 2006 on Wall Street. Even more noteworthy was the fact that, by the end of the first day of trading, the Chinese lender had a market value of about $157 billion which was more than Goldman Sachs Group and Lehman Brothers Holdings put together, according to Fortune magazine.
During this renovation of Chinese banking we will see a new form of banking appear, which will teach Europe's and America's banks a few lessons.
The biggest lesson European and American banks will learn from China is in technology. Just as America has been the technology powerhouse of the world for the last half a century, China intends to be the world's technology powerhouse for the next.
In fact, I've been watching Chinese developments ever since their reforms to join the World Trade Organisation in 2001, and have consistently been predicting that the world will look East in the 21st century, having looked West in the 20th.
This was not popular when I presented these thoughts at US banking conferences ten years ago. In fact, I was near enough booed off stage. They didn't want to hear it. Not surprisingly, they just said I was giving the same mantra as other scaremongers having seen this happen in manufacturing, where American jobs went to China. Mind you, it probably didn't help that I played this video in the middle of my presentation:
America first and let's make America great again is an unsurprising message to get Donald Trump elected, because America's legacy infrastructure is holding it back. Ten years later, not only are China's bank brands the most valuable, but their banks are also dominating the rankings for the biggest banks in the world.
This will continue for the foreseeable future and is why I talk about a three-stream world. It is also why I'm not looking West for innovation and leadership, but looking east.
Anyways, to finish the bank branding story, here's an excerpt from deputy editor of The Banker Joy Macknight's review:
A decade on from the global financial crisis, the world's top banking brands are thriving, led by impressive results in China. Joy Macknight reports.
Despite facing an increasingly regulated market, suppressed interest rates, macroeconomic uncertainty and changing customer expectations, the world's top banking brands have continued to flourish. While The Banker's Top 500 Banking Brands ranking smashed the trillion-dollar barrier for the first time in 2017, this year's elite brands have added a further 10%, bringing the aggregate valuation to $1181bn.
"The growth mainly stems from strong financial performance generally across the sector, with market capitalisation increasing by an average of 14.9%," says Declan Ahern, consultant, at Brand Finance, which compiles the ranking for The Banker. "Forecasts were also up, reflecting optimism among analysts in the sector."
The strong results pushed the average brand strength index of the top 100 brands up from 75.5 to 76. "This has had a big effect on the total value, as 79% of the total brand value is held in this top 20%," adds Mr Ahern.
China still leads
Chinese banking brands experienced another year of striking growth, increasing the country's total banking brand valuation by 22% and widening the gap between itself and the US. Impressively, China's aggregate brand strength of $317.4bn is based on just 45 banks, 84% of which expanded their brand value over the past year.
The US, in second place, increased its aggregate brand valuation by 8% and added six banks to the Top 500 ranking, bringing the total number to 76. However, the country's top three banking brands – Wells Fargo, Chase and Bank of America – slipped by one place each, losing out to Chinese brands despite increasing their brand value. Overall, one in three US banks in the Top 500 saw a contraction in brand valuation.
While Mexico saw the largest drop in aggregate brand value, this can be attributed to Banamex's rebranding as Citibanamex, which is now counted within the Citi brand and not listed separately. All four Mexican banks in the Top 500 – Banorte, Inbursa, Banco Azteca and Compartamos Banco – increased their brand value year on year.
To find out all the details, hop over here.


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Sustain's Food and Mental Health Project has now released its report on the connection between food and mental health. Changing Diets, Changing...
Food & Mental Health
The Green House
244-254 Cambridge Heath Road
London E2 9DA
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Sustain advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, promote equity and enrich society and culture.
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Whenever your furnace goes down and it is actually minus temperate outside, as a homeowner you do not need A lot time to buy about and search for a completely new high effectiveness furnace even though your home is freezing and there's a potential for your pipes bursting as a result of chilly. Learn more about the expense of furnace underneath.
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A/C starting from $1499 Ideal price in GTA We also deliver Experienced and expert repair and installation for brand new houses, Senior price cut, and guarantee on our repairs so that you can be confident that the equipment will likely be Functioning to your gratification Our …
Novel Treatment experts have been offering emergency furnace repair services to residents of Toronto, York Area, and the rest of the GTA for over thirty yrs. When your furnace breaks down in the cold months of Wintertime you may rely on a Novel Care technician to become there to assist.
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The holidays are a magical time of year, but they can also prove to be stressful for us, as moms. Take a moment out of your day with a simple gesture that can let some of the special moms in your life know just how great they are doing.
Last Christmas season, I was having a bit of a rough day, one of those days where the kids were not listening, my workload was crazy stressful, the laundry seemed to be multiplying every time I looked at it, crumbs sprinkled the countertops, and the upcoming Christmas season and all that accompanies it seemed to be constantly weighing on my mind.
I grabbed the mail out of the mailbox and saw what appeared to be a Christmas card. I immediately thought how I still needed to order our cards, causing me to add one more thing to my to-do list that already seemed to be a mile long. What's one more thing added to it, right?!? But then as I opened the card, my eyes filled with tears.
Inside the envelope was a Christmas card, but not a typical family Christmas card that is adorned with a perfect family photo. It was a handwritten vintage-looking Christmas card, with a special note inside from my husband's cousin. She took the time to send a note, along with a Starbucks gift card, saying that the Christmas season is a busy one, and one that we, as mothers, try our hardest to make special for our kids. She let me know I was doing a great job, and the next time I was out grabbing some last-minute wrapping paper at Target, to take the time to treat myself to something at Starbucks.
The card could not have arrived on a more appropriate day. I was already feeling stressed, wondering how I was going to get the cookies baked that I wanted to, make the gingerbread houses that we always do, get the presents all wrapped, make grocery lists for holiday gatherings, clean the house … and the list went on and on. I teared up as I read the card that Janel had sent, realizing that all moms go through the same thoughts and stresses during the holidays, and that I really was doing a good job making the holidays special for my kids.
Sometimes we, especially as mothers, think we need to make the holidays perfect for our families, when in reality they are already perfect without us having to make them so. Our kids don't care if the laundry is not put away, or if our annual family Christmas card ends up being a Facebook post with a family picture in front of the tree in our Christmas pjs. They would much rather spend the day playing in the snow, followed up with a cup of hot chocolate and marshmallows. And, no, I am not talking about homemade hot chocolate. I am talking about a packet of instant Swiss Miss, topped with a handful of mini marshmallows right out of the bag.
After I received this special handwritten note, I sent Janel a message, thanking her and letting her know how much the card meant to me. I asked her if she minded if I, too, sent out a sweet handwritten note to some of my friends. Of course, she was thrilled with how much her simple gesture had meant to me.
I sent handwritten notes to ten of my friends, along with a Starbucks gift card. And you know what? Each one of them thanked me and said how much it meant to them, a lot of them also saying how it arrived on a day that they really needed to hear it. My reaction of tears when I opened my card was the same reaction a lot of my friends said they had when they opened their card.
It does not take much to make someone's day. A little note to let your friends know that they are rockin' this crazy mom life can really mean the world to them. Adding a gift card to Starbucks or a local coffee shop or bakery so that they can treat themselves is a way to show them that they need to take a little time for themselves, too. If you have a favorite tea that you drink, include a packet of that in the card. Just the note itself is perfect, as well. We all need to hear that we are doing a great job, especially during the already-stressful holidays!
p.s. Don't stress if you don't get around to making 12 different kinds of Christmas cookies. Sometimes store-bought cookies are better than homemade ones ??


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03 Aug Lanesha + Marcus | Makai Pier
Posted at 04:05h in VividFotos blog 0 Comments
Lanesha + Marcus will be having their wedding on the mainland, but they wanted to have a "Hawaiian inspired" engagement shoot. Makai Pier was just the place for a mix of beach, greenery and slight urban feel! Marcus apparently has a very extensive shoe collection–and Lanesha is just getting into it 😉 Enjoy!


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Mr and Mrs Camper Mug SetChalkfulloflove
You found it folks, the ORIGINAL Mr and Mrs Camper Mug Set! This bride and groom set has been featured on Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides Magazine and Today.com and is the perfect gift for the newly engaged, newly married or married for 40 years couple!
These cozy mugs have never met a couple they didn't like and make a unique gift that is both thoughtful and practical. No more newlywed fight's over whose coffee is whose, now!
- Material: Ceramic
- Style: Camper Mug
- Color: Cream + Black
- Imprint Color: Black + White
- Volume: 14 Oz
- Details: Dishwasher & Microwave safe, Design printed on both sides!
- Note: The speckle design that will vary on each mug.
If you like this set, you might also enjoy our His & Hers Old Fashioned Glass Set!
Copyright Chalkfulloflove, 2017: All images, designs, and text are copyrighted and cannot be copied, altered, or resold. All purchases are for personal use only.


text: Use only non-combustible of flame-resistant materials. Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass "angel hair." When using artificial snow sprays follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation. Remove all wrapping papers, bags, ribbons and bows from the tree and fireplace area after gifts are opened.


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Valad Infotech Walkin Interview | Openings For Business Development Executive | 2nd To 6th November 2018 – Mumbai
Valad Infotech Latest Mumbai Walkins: Hello Job Aspirants!!! Are you in search of latest IT Software Jobs? Valad Infotech has the latest job openings for Graduates with relevant experience as a Business Development Executive. The Company is planning to hire people for Valad Infotech Walkin Interview through some interview rounds. Interested people can have a look at the below Valad Infotech Walkins In Mumbai article for further in-depth details. Get all the info related to Valad Infotech Latest Mumbai Walkins from this Today Walkins article. Now the interview schedule is from 2nd To 6th November 2018. So make sure that you reach the venue for Valad Infotech Latest Mumbai Walkins to get a job as a Business Development Executive. Also, check out other particulars regarding these Experienced Jobs from the below sections of this page.
Valad Infotech Walkin Interview Details
|Company Name
|Valad Infotech Solutions Pvt Ltd
|Any Graduate
|1 to 3 years
|Job Role
|Business Development Executive
|Rs: 2,50,000 – 3,50,000 P.A.
|IT-Software Jobs
Aspirants who are having a minimum of 1-3 years of experience as a Business Development Executive can happily attend the latest job openings in Mumbai. It is a beautiful opportunity for all graduates with knowledge in the relevant field. Get more details on Valad Infotech Walkins In Mumbai from the below All India Jobs article. Contenders willing to get placed through Valad Infotech Mumbai Walkin Interview to enhance their career can start their preparation concerning all the Valad Infotech Placement Papers available on our website. You also need to prepare well for the Interview Process choosing the right modules and stuff.
Getting a stable job in your city is a dream come true. Graduates can access this entire Valad Infotech Latest Mumbai Walkins article to secure their career. Contenders who fulfill the above-said criteria can happily take part in the Valad Infotech Mega Walkins held in Mumbai. In today's competitive world, to set your career on the right path, you need some extra talent along with the technical skills. So, we from All India Jobs have provided you with the Test Patterns to guide in the preparation. Also, you can have a glance at all the Interview Questions asked previously. To get further insights on Valad Infotech Latest Mumbai Walkins bookmark our website and get regular updates.
Valad Infotech Job Description
- New Lead Acquisition / Lead Generation / Follow-ups.
- Tele Calling / Updating CRM / Market Research.
- Marketing of services.
- Cold Calling.
- Trying to convert meeting to deals.
Valad Infotech Solutions Pvt Ltd Company Profile
Valad derives its strength from the team of marine & mechanical engineers, naval architects, software professionals, and domain experts depending on individual clientele needs. At Valad, we make it a point to ensure that global trade doesn't stop. At Valad, we endeavor to ensure that all vessel categories are always accounted for in the books for their database & inventory management. With Valad our clientele is assured of effective, on-time and optimal service to bring to life the promise of commitment that we as right partners offer.
Our consultants help companies rethink business and operating and models to deliver breakthrough value. Our people know how to anticipate, collaborate, and innovate, and create opportunity from even the unforeseen obstacle. We are proud to be part of the largest global professional services network, serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them.
How to apply for Valad Infotech Solutions Latest Mumbai Walkins?
Job aspirants can make a move immediately, and if this job is suitable to your profile, then you can try your luck with Valad Infotech Solutions Latest Mumbai Walkins for Business Development Executive Role on the given dates, time and venue.
Valad Infotech Solutions Latest Walkin Details
Walkin Date: 2nd to 6th November 2018
Walkin Time: 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Valad Infotech Solutions Pvt. Ltd.,
503 & 504, 5th Floor, Damji Shamji Business Galleria,
Above D-Mart, Kanjurmarg (W), Mumbai – 400078
Important Documents to carry for Valad Infotech Walkins
- Updated Resume
- Experience Certificates
- ID Proofs
- Marks Certificates/ Memos
- Photographs
Upcoming Walkins
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VapeEmpire has stocked up all sorts of Dry Herb Vaporizer Accessories and add ons which are meant to enhance your Vaping Experience.
Even the toughest of vapes will ultimately need a fine-tune and VapeEmpire comes to your rescue with an extensive collection of replacement parts and cleaning apparatuses.
You could pick the required accessories from our online vape shop which includes all the best Dry Herb Vaporizer accessories across Australia.


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Description: Spookshow dealt with those ghosts who could take on mortal form again and who had become literal spooks, going to work as intelligence agents. This supplement expands the Spookshow into more unorthodox areas. There are other ghosts out there, ones that can't ordinarily participate as spooks but who would love the chance to interact and be useful again. Housekeepers, for example, have become a major asset. There are also mortal allies, Professionals and Specialists of all sorts, who can help spies when they're in a jam. Learn more about these ghosts and mortals, how they fit in, and how to play them as characters. Sometimes, even a spook's abilities just aren't enough. Sometimes, what's required is a little bit ... more.
Designed for the Spookshow system, but contains lots of interesting material for many horror role playing games. Published 1999 by Clockworks Games. 152 pages.
Condition: New, NM/Mint
Brand: Clockworks Games


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- Specification
- Fan Stages: 4
- Sealed Pressure: 9.0 psi (0.62 bar)
- Filter type: Dual (pre-filter and main filter)
- Watts: 1568
- Current: 110 vac - 60 hz or 240 vac - 50 hz
- Weight: 24 lbs (10.8 kg)
- Height: 12" (30.48 cm)
- Width: 8.5" (21.6 cm)
- Length: 15" (38.1 cm)
Experience 80%-90% TE (Transfer Efficiency) and a cleaner work environment with Apollo Sprayers Turbospray HVLP spray systems, the easiest to use HVLP spray finishing systems available. Apollo's gentle warm dry turbo air ensures no moisture contamination in your finish or your work.
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Well-Known Member
Just because we love to pose and see photos of ourselves dressed up in leather jackets and we post them on the Internet for the world to see..........:: doesn't make us narcissistic.,,,,,For reference, here's two jackets that are more my size. The good thing is there's more room for interpretation with casual wear opposed to sport coats... Which either fit or they don't.
First pic is a Johnson leathers M-Jean. Second is what I think is a one off custom jacket for a long defunct San Francisco leather bar called the Ambush. Yeah, that kind of leather bar. Eh, it's just a leather jacket. I think it's horsehide, but not sure.
And no, I'm not a narcissist. This is all in the name of science. Haha!
View attachment 20910View attachment 20911
(Does it??)


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S'mores! An Online Poster Project!
WISCONSIN Mystery Box
This year, Mr. Hammer and Ms. Krogman's fourth graders participated in the Wisconsin Mystery Box activity. It is a statewide project where students create 25 clues about their hometown, without giving it away. The clues are sent in a box to another teacher somewhere in Wisconsin. They, in turn, get a box from a mystery city. They solve the clues to find their partner school.


text: In today's Gospel reading from Mark 7, Jesus said to the crowd, "Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile." Jesus used such examples as evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, and folly. These all come from the unclean heart. The first order of business of loving God is to let him purify your heart and keep it clean. Then you'll be ready to love your neighbors as God loves us, for he is all pure and holy.


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The maximum voltage drop in an on-chip power distribution network:Tom Carroll, Joaquim Ortega-Cerdà
analysis of square, triangular and hexagonal power pad arrangements [PDF]
A mathematical model of the voltage drop which arises in on-chip power distribution networks is used to compare the maximum voltage drop in the case of different geometric arrangements of the pads supplying power to the chip. These include the square or Manhattan power pad arrangement which currently predominates, as well as equilateral triangular and hexagonal arrangements. In agreement with findings in the literature and with physical and SPICE models, the equilateral power pad arrangement, independent of the underlying power mesh configuration, is found to minimize the maximum voltage drop. This headline finding is a consequence of relatively simple formulas for the voltage drop, with explicit error bounds, which are established using complex analysis techniques, and elliptic functions in particular.View original: http://arxiv.org/abs/1307.0987


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Whether athletes can enhance their performance with caffeine may depend on their genes.
According to a new study of the genetics of caffeine metabolism, athletes with a particular variant of one gene show notable improvements in their endurance performance after swallowing caffeine.
But those with a different variant of that gene may perform worse if they first have caffeine, raising questions about who should be using the drug to bump up performance and about the broader interplay of nutrition, genetics and exercise.
For many of us, caffeine, usually in the form of coffee, is as necessary to the morning as sunrise.
But different people respond differently to the effects of caffeine. Some become jittery and later have difficulty sleeping. Others can drink the same amount of coffee and report increased alertness but no jitters or sleep disruptions.
The same range of reactions occurs in athletes. In multiple past studies, most people will work out longer, faster or more strenuously after they swallow a moderate dose of caffeine, but a few perform no better or even worse.
via Can Coffee Rev Up Your Workout? It May Depend on Your Genes – The New York Times


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Ivan is an Associate at KTA Advocates where he works with the dispute resolution, TMT and transaction advisory teams of the firm.
He is an Advocate of the High Court of Uganda, a holder of a Post-Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre and has an LL.B from Uganda Christian University (UCU) where he was also the President of the UCU Law Society.
Ivan also has a Post-Graduate Diploma in Tax and Revenue Administration from The East African School of Taxation (PODITRA), Post-graduate Certificates in Trade Law and Policy and Trade Facilitation from the Trade Policy Training Centre in Africa (trapca) and has received specialized training in Public-Private Partnerships (PPP's), International Arbitration and Technology.
He is currently undergoing the prestigious Young Institute of Transnational Arbitration (ITA) inaugural mentorship program where he is being mentored by a distinguished International Arbitration practitioner, Barton Legum of the global elite law firm, Dentons, Paris, with this mentorship program facilitated by Christel Tham of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).
Ivan has in the past been awarded the prestigious Lex:lead (Lawyers for Economic Advancement and Development) scholarship in 2015 for his outstanding essay on law and development. His scholarship award came from one of Africa's premier law firms, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr. He has also won two other international essay competitions.
He is also quite published and has had some of his scholarship appear in "Africa Law Today" and also the International Bar Association Foundation. He has even previously been a Research Associate with an Arbitration network called "ArbitRatio" and is a regular contributor to the American Bar Association Year In Review (ABA YIR). The ABA YIR is a publication that presents a survey of important legal and political developments that have happened all over the world.
Ivan is a regular speaker at conferences on especially legal topics for example to mention but a few, he spoke at the African Bar Association, 2018 in Nairobi, Kenya, the Legal Tech Conference 2019, The Annual Symposium on Intellectual Property, Technology and Innovation, the KTA Copyright Conference, the African International Economic Law Network (AfIELN) 4th Biennial Conference taking place at Strathmore University, Nairobi Kenya from the18th to 20th of July 2019 and the 1st East African Community Conference on the 15th of March, 2019 at Skyz Hotel, Kampala.
- International Trade law and Policy
- International Arbitration
- Regional Integration
- Corporate & Commercial law
- Intellectual Property
- Technology
- Media and Telecommunications
- LLB, Uganda Christian University
- Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, LDC – Kampala
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Tax and Revenue Administration from The East African School of Taxation (PODITRA).
- Post-graduate Certificate in Trade Facilitation from the Trade Policy Training Centre in Africa (TRAPCA)
- Uganda Law Society
- East African Law Society
- Member Young Institute of Transnational Arbitration (ITA).
- Member Young International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA).
- Student Member Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb).
- Lex:Lead (Lawyers for Economic Advancement and Development) Ambassador.