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BRICS CCI WE’s 4th Annual Summit highlights women’s achievements

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New Delhi [India], March 9 (ANI): With the emphasis on Women-Led Development in India’s G20 Presidency and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of fostering inclusivity and driving positive change, BRICS CCI WE, the Women Empowerment vertical of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry, hosted its 4th Annual Summit and Felicitations 2024 on the theme: The Changing Narrative: Women Development to Women-led Development.

BRICS CCI WE also unveiled a report, New Era of BRICS: Horizons in Tech and Business for Women Empowerment, with special emphasis on the technology and entrepreneurship landscape for women across the BRICS countries.

The vertical also hosted the convocation of the first batch of women participants in the BRICS CCI WE Global Women Leadership Programme at the summit, according to an official press release.

The summit was graced by diplomats from the embassies of Russia, China, Brazil, South Africa, Iran, Cuba, Costa Rica, Chile, Belarus, Gambia, Angola, Chad, Comoros, and Venezuela, among others.

Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Padma Vibhushan Awardee, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha was the Chief Guest at the Summit. Whereas, Shazia Ilmi, National Spokesperson of BJP, Swati Singh, Former Minister of State, (Ind. Charge) for Women and Child Welfare, Ambassador Sanjay Bhattacharyya (Retired), Former BRICS Sherpa and Secretary to Government of India and Ajay Chaudhary, IPS, Special Commissioner of Police In-Charge of Special Police Unit for WomenChildrenSpecial Police Unit for North-East Region, New Delhi, also addressed the gathering, the press release read.

In her welcome address, Ruby Sinha, President, BRICS CCI WE said, “The transition from women development to women-led development signifies not just a change in narrative but a commitment to empowering half of our population. Women are no longer viewed as passive recipients of aid but as active agents of change, capable of leading and shaping their own development and that of their communities.”The Chief Guest, Sonal Mansingh, stated “Women’s leadership is indispensable in building a more equitable and prosperous society. The Summit catalyzes amplifying women’s voices and ensuring their active participation in all spheres of life.”The summit also honoured extraordinary women who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women’s development. Poonam Dhillon, actor, Entrepreneur and politician, was felicitated with the BRICS CCI WE Trailblazer Lifetime Achievement award for her illustrious career, which not only enriched the entertainment industry but also paved the way for women’s empowerment and leadership in diverse sectors, the release stated.

Dhillon, in her address, said,” Empowering women is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity for sustainable development. By championing women-led initiatives, we can unlock untapped potential and pave the way for a more inclusive future.”Raimati Ghiuria, Queen of Millets from Odisha, Dr Meenakshi Gopinath, Founder and Director of WISCOMP (Women in Security, Conflict Management and Peace) and Latika Bhandari, Indian Taekwondo Athlete were felicitated as BRICS CCI WE Women Icon Trailblazers, the release said.

BBL Madhukar, Director General BRICS CCI said, “The 4th Annual Summit and Felicitations of BRICS CCI WE marks another milestone in our journey towards promoting women-led development. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of the BRICS nations, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world for future generations,” the release added.

Shazia Ilmi, National Spokesperson, BJP, also addressed the gathering.

In her speech, she highlighted that Women’s empowerment is at the heart of our collective progress. Through concerted efforts and policy interventions, we can create an enabling environment where every woman has the opportunity to fulfill her aspirations and contribute to society.

Meanwhile, Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman, BRICS CCI in his address said, “The Summit underscores the importance of women’s empowerment in shaping the narrative of development. As we strive for progress, it is imperative to create opportunities and support mechanisms that enable women to thrive as leaders and change-makers.”Ambassador Sanjay Bhattacharyya (Retd.), Former BRICS Sherpa and Secretary to the Government of India, stated, “The BRICS CCI WE Annual Summit underscores the significance of women’s leadership in driving socio-economic progress and fostering inclusive growth. Through collaborative efforts, we can harness the potential of women entrepreneurs and leaders to build a better future for all.”Ajay Chaudhary, IPS, Special Commissioner of Police In-Charge of Special Police Unit for WomenChildrenSpecial Police Unit for North-East Region, New Delhi said, “Ensuring the safety and security of women is paramount for their empowerment. By strengthening law enforcement mechanisms and promoting gender-sensitive policies, we can safeguard women’s rights and dignity.”The summit also recognized the achievements of emerging women entrepreneurs, both within and outside the BRICS CCI network.

The summit was also attended by Ashok Kr Singh, Vice Chairman, of BRICS CCI, Ruhail Ranjan, Director of Finance, Shabana Nasim, Chief Patron, BRICS CCI WE, Ansh Virmani, Country Director, BRICS CCI-UAE Chapter, members of the governing Body, Ankita Sachdeva, Jt. Director, BRICS CCI, members of the governing body and members of the Chamber.

Eminent panellists engaged in insightful discussions on the theme of women-led development in India and elucidated the pillars of women-led development, including education, enterprise, financial literacy, and leadership mentoring.

The fourth Annual Summit of BRICS CCI WE concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing women’s leadership and catalysing inclusive development globally. (ANI)

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Tickets now live for Dubai’s first homegrown musical spectacle

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A cultural revolution is about to begin. Tickets are now available for Once Upon A Time in Dubai, the most ambitious, emotional, and spectacular musical ever produced in the region. Opening this December at The Agenda in Dubai Media City, the show is already being called a once-in-a-generation phenomenon — and for good reason.

More than just a stage production, Once Upon A Time in Dubai is the first original large-scale musical entirely created in the UAE, blending Broadway-worthy storytelling with the energy and dreams of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Behind this bold vision is Stéphane Boukris, entrepreneur and cultural trailblazer, who has brought together an international creative dream team — including Universal Music Group MENA as co-producer — to craft a deeply emotional journey of love, ambition, and transformation, set in today’s Dubai.

“This show is a tribute to everything Dubai represents: ambition, diversity, and the power to build your own destiny,” says Boukris. “We are creating something people will never forget.”

A World-Class Team Behind the Curtain

The production brings together talents who have previously worked on global shows such as Céline Dion, Disney shows, and Arabs Got Talent (MBC). From lighting to choreography and technical design, every detail is crafted by artists and technicians at the highest international standards.

A Story That Speaks to a Generation

At the heart of the show is Will, a young English dancer who arrives in Dubai to search for Sophia, the woman he loves. Along the way, he meets artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers from all walks of life, culminating in a celebration of courage, community, and reinvention.

The cast features rising stars Amanda Maalouf (X Factor) and Joe Woolford (The Voice UK) — with many of the lead vocalists and performers previously featured on international talent platforms, bringing an exceptional level of stage presence and vocal power. The musical includes over 20 original songs composed by Nazim Khaled, including already-viral hits like “Habibi”, “Stranger in the World”, and “Think Big”.

A City-Wide Movement

With over 150,000 spectators expected across 55 performances, the show is much more than an event — it’s becoming a movement. Once Upon A Time in Dubai is already making waves across the city with:

Strategic brand partnerships: McDonald’s, Carrefour MAF, Careem, Accor, Mall of the

Emirates, Tilal Al Ghaf, GEMS Education, and more

Immersive activations: Soundtracks in Hala taxis, QR codes in malls, music in retail

stores, and dedicated social media campaigns

Youth engagement: Auditions and showcases for students across GEMS schools,

opening the stage to the next generation of performers

The show will be performed in English, and supported by a multicultural creative team led by stage director Johan Nus.

Exclusive Ticket Sale

Tickets are available exclusively via Fever, the global ticketing platform. Pre-sale access has already launched with selected partners such as GEMS, Muse by Chalhoub, and Accor’s ALL loyalty members — with thousands of tickets snapped up in just days.

🎤 Behind the scenes videos, interviews with the cast, and a full media kit are available upon request. 📸 Press passes for opening week are now being issued — be among the first to witness the birth of a new cultural landmark.

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Dubai Musical Debuts with Amanda Maalouf’s Anthem

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In a performance that blended emotion, elegance, and East-West harmony, Lebanese-French singer Amanda Maalouf on Wednesday gave a select UAE audience a stirring preview of the upcoming musical Once Upon A Time in Dubai, set to premiere in December 2025.

The exclusive showcase featured Maalouf performing “Habibi,” one of the show’s signature numbers, at an invite-only preview attended by media, partners, and cultural stakeholders. The song—a poignant blend of Arabic influences and Western theatrical arrangement—earned enthusiastic applause, offering a glimpse of what producers are calling “a new kind of musical for a new Dubai.”

“Dubai is more than a setting—it’s a character in this story,” said Stéphane Boukris, co-producer of the musical. “This project is about cultural unity, artistic innovation, and shining a spotlight on a new generation redefining identity in the Middle East. We’re proud to bring this bridge between France and the UAE to life.”

For Maalouf, whose performance marked the first public taste of the show, the moment was deeply personal. “Habibi is a song that speaks from the heart—it’s a journey through love, self-expression, and identity,” she told reporters after the performance. “Performing it here in Dubai, where East and West meet so beautifully, is a dream. This is just the beginning [of great things together].”

The team behind Once Upon A Time in Dubai says the musical is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural project designed to showcase Dubai as a city of stories, voices, and future-forward artistry.

The production is backed by Universal Music and features a cast and crew with international credentials, with more previews and announcements expected soon.

A collaboration between a visionary French team and Universal Music, the musical tells the story of a young generation rising in the heart of Dubai, navigating identity, ambition, and tradition in a rapidly changing world. With original compositions by renowned composer Nazim Khaled and set against the backdrop of the UAE’s global crossroads, the show promises to be a landmark moment for original musical theatre in the region. The story, told through original music and dance, will premiere later this year, with full production details expected to be announced over the coming months.

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Philippine film legend Nora Aunor passes away at 71

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Veteran actress, politician and beloved superstar Nora Aunor has passed away at the age of 71.

Her son, Ian De Leon, confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post on Tuesday, 16 April 2025. Sharing a photo of his late mother, he wrote:

“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora C. Villamayor ‘Nora Aunor’ who left us today at the age of 71. She was the heart of our family,  a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.”

The late star’s wake will be held at The Chapels, Heritage Park in Taguig, according to her daughter and fellow actress Lotlot de Leon.

A National Treasure

In 2022, Nora Aunor was officially recognised as a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts by the Philippine government, the highest honour given to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the country’s arts and culture. She was honoured alongside screenwriter Ricky Lee and the late director Marilou Diaz-Abaya.

Cause of Death

Neither the 71-year-old’s family nor authorities have confirmed a cause of death yet. However, according to the media outlet Inquirer.com, she was at a Pasig hospital for an undisclosed procedure.

Career Highlights

Nora Aunor rose to fame as a singer and actress, later becoming one of the most respected names in Philippine cinema. She is best known for her award-winning performance in the critically acclaimed film Himala.

Her most recent film appearance was in Mananambal, alongside actress Bianca Umali. On television, her final role was in the GMA Afternoon Prime series Lilet Matias: Attorney-at-Law.

A true icon, Nora Aunor leaves behind a rich legacy and a nation in mourning.

Tributes Pour In

“Every tear she shed onscreen felt like a collective heartbreak. Every line she delivered became etched in the memory of Philippine cinema… Nora, salamat sa sining. Salamat sa puso,” wrote Charo Santos-Concio said in her post.

“Despite her legendary status, she carried herself with such modesty — confident in her craft, yet never boastful,” Actress Lovi Poe said in her post.

“The FDCP mourns the passing of National Artist Nora Aunor — an icon, a legend, and a voice that captured the soul of a nation. Her performances were never just roles; they were reflections of truth, hope, and resilience,’ wrote The national film council of the Philippines.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, fans, and every Filipino soul mourning the loss of our beloved Superstar and National Artist,” said noted social activist Persida Rueda-Acosta.

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