"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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Star Citizens

Pam Kaur: Who is She? 160-Year History is Being Changed

Pam Kaur, a banker of Indian descent, has been named the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of HSBC Holdings. She is the first woman to occupy this role in the 160-year history of the bank, succeeding Georges Elhedery. With effect from January 1, 2025, Kaur, 60, will also serve as the Executive Director of the Board of Directors, the company announced in a news release.The Career Milestones of Pam Kaur ~ (Source: Google Images)  Based in the United Kingdom Pam Kaur graduated from Punjab University in Chandigarh with a B.Com. (Honours) and an MBA in Finance. She began her career in internal audit at Citibank before becoming a chartered accountant at Ernst and Young (EY). She has nearly forty years of illustrious financial experience. Kaur has held key roles at a number of global financial institutions, such as Group Head of Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering at Lloyds TSB, CFO and COO of the Restructuring and Risk Division at Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC, and Global Head of Group Audit for Deutsche. In addition, Kaur has held the positions of Global Director of Compliance for Citigroup's Global Consumer Group and Chief Compliance Officer at Citigroup International. At the moment, she serves as 'Abrdn PLC's' non-executive director. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales counts her as a Fellow Member. In April 2013, Kaur left Deutsche Bank to become Group Head of Internal Audit at HSBC. In January 2020, she joined HSBC as Group Chief Risk Officer, and in June 2021, she assumed responsibility for Compliance. In addition to being a global sponsor of HSBC's 'Embrace' employee network, which strives to assist recruit, retain, and engage a more varied ethnic and multicultural workforce among the lender's 225,000 employees worldwide, Pam Kaur identifies herself as a “passionate supporter of diversity and inclusion.”

30 Oct 2024
Star Citizens

Bats, Balls and Badges: A Hyderabad Boy’s Journey From Talented Cricketer to IPS Officer

Everybody recalls the times when their parents and other family members asked them to spend more time studying and less time playing when they were young. Many people are so immersed in sports that they never consider going back to school. Nevertheless, one man dispelled this misconception by transitioning from cricket to being an IPS officer in the Maharashtra cadre. We are speaking of Karthik Madhira, who left his dream of becoming an Indian cricket star to join the Indian Police Service (IPS). Karthik Madhira, a Hyderabadi native, played cricket at the U-13, U-15, U-17, and U-19 levels as well as at the university level before his once-burgeoning career abruptly reversed course. Karthik Madhira graduated with a degree in Computer Science Engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU) prior to joining the Indian Police Service. According to media reports, Karthik decided to pursue academics instead of cricket due to personal issues and an injury. The Biggest Switch In Life Leading To A Fascinating Choice!  (Source:Google Images) Realization Of His Passion ~  Before becoming an IPS officer, Karthik Madhira also had a job for six months but he soon realised his passion for the civil services. He failed in his first three UPSC attempts but he did not give up and in the UPSC 2019 exam, on his fourth attempt, Karthik Madhira secured AIR 103.  Karthik Madhira switched from cricket to IPS, but he never lost his love for the game. In his earlier attempts, Karthik followed a segmented study approach for prelims, mains, and the interview. However, during his successful fourth attempt, he adopted a holistic approach. Sharpening his writing skills and tackling numerous MCQs for both prelims and mains, Karthik's comprehensive strategy proved instrumental in realizing his dream of becoming an IPS officer. He is currently assigned to the Maharashtra cadre and serves as an ASP in Lonavala. Takeaway ~ Unleash Yourself To Your Dreams ! "What does it mean to be courageous?" you may ask the individual. It's likely that someone will make a super hero movie reference. Many of us believe that acting bravely only entails rescuing someone from a burning building, jumping in front of oncoming traffic to save someone else, or even taking out an active shooter. Even while those acts are incredibly brave and heroic, we nevertheless need courage to carry out our regular daily tasks, like turning away from a confrontation. Big things like pursuing our aspirations or striking up a conversation with a stranger we find attractive also require courage. It takes bravery to act morally and to select a positive emotion in a difficult circumstance.  All of us possess courage, but not everyone knows how to use it. Fearless individuals don't merely declare their principles; they live up to them, even in awkward and embarrassing situations.  A culture of courage is one of those prerequisites; it is a culture in which individuals take calculated risks, lives their principles fully, work hard to establish trust, and rise together to achieve remarkable things. Developing courage and abilities together is a crucial superpower that you and your team may cultivate over the upcoming decade if you're looking to take on challenging tasks and achieve remarkable results!

11 Jun 2024
Star Citizens

From Civil Services to Silver Screen: The Remarkable Journey of Simala Prasad!

The UPSC Civil Services examination is renowned for its rigorous nature, standing as one of the toughest exams in India. Aspiring candidates dedicate hours of relentless study to crack this prestigious test. While some individuals undergo multiple attempts before succeeding, others manage to ace it on their very first try. Working in Bollywood movies is the ultimate dream for the majority but also a demanding task. However, some manage to juggle a regular job along with an active career in films. One such shining example is that of Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Simala Prasad who not only worked in Bollywood movies but also cracked the UPSC CSE on her very first attempt without any coaching. In the vast tapestry of distinguished officers and Bollywood actors, a name stands out, blending both worlds with élan: Simala Prasad. Hailing from Bhopal, born on October 8, 1980, she is not just one of the country’s top IPS officers but has also shone brightly on the silver screen. Within her tenure, she has garnered the reputation of being one of the best IPS officers in the country, an evidence  of her dedication and hard work. Born to Achieve ~ Her pedigree of excellence is backed by her lineage. Her father, Dr. Bhagirath Prasad, is an esteemed IAS officer and MP, while her mother, Mehrunnisa Parvez, has carved a niche for herself as a notable litterateur. Growing up in such an illustrious household, it’s evident where her drive and ambition originate. Simala’s academic journey began at St. Joseph’s Co-Ed School in Bhopal. Later, she pursued her B.Com from the Institute for Excellence in Higher Education (IEHE). Simala furthered her studies by undertaking post-graduation in Sociology from Rakatullah University. Her academic prowess was evident when she was awarded a gold medal for topping her class. Before embarking on her IPS journey, Simala marked her proficiency in the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MP PSC) exam. Consequently, her first significant assignment was as a DSP. With her inherent determination, Simala took on the challenge of the UPSC exam. Remarkably, without the aid of any coaching, she achieved success in her very first attempt, setting an example for aspirants nationwide (Source: Google images) A Surprise Bollywood Call ~ Simala’s diverse talents caught the eye of Bollywood director, Jaigham Imam. Enchanted by her grace, he envisioned her in a leading role for his film ‘Alif’. Such an offer to an IPS officer was unprecedented and highlighted her versatile appeal. 2017 saw Simala making her cinematic debut with ‘Alif’. The film showcased her acting capabilities, leading to another opportunity in 2019’s ‘Nakkash’. While her role in Bollywood might seem unconventional for an IPS officer, it underscores her multifaceted personality. Despite never considering a career in civil services during her formative years, Prasad harbored a passion for dancing and acting from childhood. Active participation in school and college plays fueled her love for the arts. Although her journey led her to unexpected paths, Prasad eventually realized her dream of becoming an IPS officer, embodying the spirit of perseverance and determination. To sum up, Simala Prasad is a beacon of versatility, effortlessly bridging her roles as an IPS officer and a Bollywood actor. Her story underscores that with determination, one can wear multiple hats, excel in diverse fields, and remain a source of inspiration for many. Takeaway From the Story ~ Versatility As a Virtue Of Brilliance  Versatility: Being versatile means that you are ready to respond to the constantly shifting and rapidly changing external dynamics by gaining the necessary skill sets, exploring new areas of knowledge, solving mysteries, leaving your comfortable bubble, accepting reality, and, to the greatest extent possible, being prepared to accept change before it makes you obsolete, ineffective, and possibly even useless.  Even in the business and commerce sectors, the only organizations that have not only survived but also grown and prospered are those that have adjusted to the changing times. The necessity is to adjust to the changing environment, which is changing at an accelerated rate and tends to overcome even the most agile and intelligentsia-like people unless, at the very least, they can adjust to it before it overtakes them. To escape the true shame of becoming lost and put in the notorious defeatist group, one must possess the insight to be able to predict it. (Source: Google images)  

26 Mar 2024
Star Citizens

How Ishita Kishore defied the odds to ace the UPSC Civil Services Exam

Ishita Kishore, an accomplished alumnus of Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) in Delhi, has emerged as the All-India Rank 1 (AIR 1) in the prestigious Civil Services Exam 2022, announced by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in Kishore's journey, which began with her graduation in Economics Hons from SRCC in 2017. Hailing from Delhi, Ishita Kishore cleared the UPSC CSE on her third attempt, showcasing her unwavering determination and perseverance. Upon learning about her achievement, Kishore expressed her joy, describing it as a dream come true. She gratefully acknowledged the continuous support and encouragement she received from her family throughout her journey. Kishore studied at Air Force Bal Bharati School in New Delhi and her academic excellence is evident from her exceptional performance in her Class 12 board exams, where she secured an impressive 97.25 percent in the commerce stream. During her graduation, Kishore gained valuable experience through internships with notable organizations such as CRY Foundation, Housing and Urban Development Corporation, and GAIL Ltd. Subsequently, she joined Ernst and Young as a Risk Analyst in 2017. However, driven by her aspiration to serve the nation, she made the courageous decision to leave her corporate career in 2019 to dedicate herself fully to the UPSC Civil Services exam preparation.  She chose political science and international relations as her optional subject for the UPSC CSE. At the age of 26, Kishore brings a diverse background to her pursuit of public service. She was a national-level football player, having participated in the prestigious Subroto Cup football tournament in 2012. With a passion for social change, Kishore aims to work towards women's empowerment and upliftment of marginalized communities. As Ishita Kishore embarks on her journey as a civil servant, her success serves as an inspiration for aspiring candidates and exemplifies the power of determination, hard work, and a strong sense of purpose.

24 May 2023
Star Citizens

Global News

Novak Djokovic Becomes the Fifth Player Ever To Achieve a Career Golden Slam

Novak Djokovic secured his place in tennis history by winning the Olympic gold medal in men’s singles in an exhilarating finale at Roland Garros. This victory not only capped off an extraordinary career but also earned him the prestigious title of achieving a Career Golden Slam, joining an elite group of tennis legends. A Golden Slam is earned when an individual player wins all four Grand Slams (Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, U.S. Open) and an Olympic gold medal in singles. A Stunning Victory at Roland Garros On a dramatic Sunday, Djokovic, at 37, showcased his exceptional skill and determination on Court Philippe Chatrier. Facing Spain's rising star Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic delivered a flawless performance, winning 7-6(3) 7-6(2) to claim his first Olympic title. This victory solidifies his status as one of the greatest players in tennis history. Before this momentous win, Djokovic's Olympic journey had been a mix of highs and lows. Although he had previously earned a bronze medal in Beijing 2008, the elusive gold had always eluded him. In the past, Djokovic had faced defeat in the semifinals, losing to Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, and Alexander Zverev in previous Games. However, Djokovic's resilience was evident as he overcame these past disappointments, including a notable victory over Nadal this year. Source: Google Images A Legendary Achievement With this win, Djokovic becomes the fifth player to achieve a Career Golden Slam, a feat that involves winning all four Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. The list of illustrious players who have accomplished this feat includes: Steffi Graf: Graf was the first to achieve this milestone in 1988, winning all four Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold. Andre Agassi: Agassi joined the ranks in 1999, securing his Career Golden Slam with a French Open victory that year. Rafael Nadal: At 24, Nadal achieved this feat in 2010, becoming the youngest to complete the Career Golden Slam. Serena Williams: Williams rounded out the group in 2012, adding an Olympic gold to her collection of Grand Slam titles. Djokovic’s Career in Perspective Djokovic's career is already marked by numerous records, including a men’s-record 24 Grand Slam titles and the longest tenure at No. 1 in the ATP rankings. His journey to this Olympic gold was marked by determination and a desire to rectify past shortcomings. Despite a recent surgery on his knee, Djokovic's tenacity and skill were on full display as he triumphed in Paris. As the oldest man to win Olympic singles gold since 1908, he has set a new benchmark for excellence and perseverance. His success adds a new chapter to the history of tennis and provides inspiration for future generations of athletes.

5 Aug 2024
Global News

60 YO learned to play the guitar on her own in the pandemic and has found a new career as a chart topping musician!

Never before had Kym Vincenti played the guitar, but during the pandemic, she decided to give it a try when she found a guitar her ex-boyfriend had left laying about. During the lockdown, 60-year-old Vincenti, a ghostwriter by profession, began practicing the guitar using simple fingering charts to teach herself the chord positions. She ended up being a natural at it. While most of the people were on their nerve’s end during the lockdown, Vincenti took to music and gained confidence in her art as the months progressed. She soon began writing songs and composing music for it. Eager to get feedback about her newfound art, she uploaded videos of herself performing on social media. She received a lot of positive responses which inspired her and then, there was no looking back. For two years she played on and off and then Dutch Van Spell who runs Big Help Music was Impressed by her music and contacted her, Spell invited her to his record studio where they recorded one of her songs, and to her pleasant surprise, she was offered a record deal. Encouraged by this deal, she has been making more music and releasing it across multiple platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, Soundcloud, and Amazon Music. Some of her songs even featured in the top 10 and top 20 of popular charts. Vincenti is loving every bit of her new career. She states that at her age, it feels strange recording songs and working on new projects, but it has been a whirlwind of a journey and she is enjoying every moment of it.

1 Dec 2022
Global News

Positive Reads

The Bay Area: The Ultimate Tech Paradise for Professionals

The Bay Area, encompassing cities like San Francisco, Palo Alto, and San Jose, has established itself as the ultimate destination for tech professionals. With its vibrant ecosystem, unparalleled opportunities, and a culture of innovation, it has become the go-to place for individuals passionate about technology and its limitless potential. What sets the Bay Area apart from other tech hubs? Firstly, it hosts some of the world's most renowned technology companies, including giants like Apple, Google, Facebook, and Tesla. The concentration of these industry leaders creates an environment ripe with innovation and collaboration. Tech enthusiasts can easily find themselves working alongside the brightest minds in the field, contributing to groundbreaking projects that shape the future. Moreover, the Bay Area boasts a robust startup ecosystem. It has become synonymous with entrepreneurship, attracting ambitious individuals eager to turn their innovative ideas into reality. The region is home to numerous successful startups that have disrupted industries and revolutionized technology. The availability of venture capital funding and a supportive network of mentors and incubators make it an ideal breeding ground for new ventures. In terms of career opportunities, the Bay Area offers an abundance of choices. The demand for tech talent is consistently high, with companies constantly on the lookout for skilled professionals. From software engineers to data scientists, product managers to UX designers, the range of job roles and specializations is vast. This diversity ensures that individuals can find a role that aligns with their interests, skills, and aspirations. The Bay Area's allure extends beyond just job opportunities. It offers an unparalleled quality of life, with its mild climate, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. The region is known for its progressive mindset, embracing diversity and inclusivity. Tech professionals can enjoy a thriving social scene, with a plethora of entertainment options, world-class restaurants, and a rich arts and music culture. To further enhance the Bay Area's appeal, it fosters a collaborative and supportive community. Tech meetups, conferences, and networking events are a regular occurrence, providing professionals with opportunities to connect, learn, and share knowledge. The spirit of collaboration permeates the region, with a willingness to help and uplift one another. In addition, the Bay Area has a strong educational foundation. Prestigious universities like Stanford and the University of California, Berkeley, are situated in the region, attracting top talent from around the world. These institutions not only produce exceptional graduates but also serve as centers for research and innovation, further fueling the tech ecosystem. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the Bay Area does come with its challenges. The cost of living in the region is notoriously high, with skyrocketing housing prices and a competitive rental market. Traffic congestion is another concern, as the region's popularity has led to increased commuting times. These factors necessitate careful financial planning and consideration of one's lifestyle preferences. Nevertheless, the Bay Area remains an unparalleled hub for tech enthusiasts. It offers an environment that nurtures creativity, fosters collaboration, and rewards innovation. For those seeking to make an impact in the tech industry, the Bay Area presents endless possibilities and a chance to be at the forefront of technological advancements. With its thriving tech ecosystem, abundant career opportunities, and a unique blend of work and lifestyle, the Bay Area continues to attract talented individuals from around the globe. It remains the epitome of a tech paradise, where dreams are realized, boundaries are pushed, and the future is shaped.

25 Oct 2023
Positive Reads

Future-Proof Your Career: 5 Skills You Need to Master in 2023 for a Job

As the job market continues to evolve, it is important for job seekers to stay up-to-date with the skills that are in high demand. Here are five of the top skills to have in 2023 for securing a job: 1. Digital literacy: With the increasing importance of technology in the workplace, employers are looking for candidates who are comfortable with a range of digital tools and platforms. This includes proficiency in software applications, social media, and other digital communication tools. 2. Critical thinking: The ability to analyze information and make sound decisions is highly valued by employers. Candidates who can demonstrate strong critical thinking skills are more likely to be hired and succeed in their roles. 3. Adaptability: In today's fast-paced work environment, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and take on new challenges is crucial. Employers are looking for candidates who are flexible and can thrive in a dynamic work environment. 4. Communication: Effective communication skills are essential for success in any job. Candidates who can communicate clearly and confidently with colleagues, customers, and clients are highly sought after. 5. Emotional intelligence: The ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as the emotions of others, is becoming increasingly important in the workplace. Candidates who can demonstrate strong emotional intelligence are more likely to succeed in leadership roles and work well in a team. By developing these skills, job seekers can position themselves for success in the job market of 2023 and beyond

5 Jul 2023
Positive Reads

Good News

Unlock the Secrets of Space with ISRO’s START Training Program!

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is renowned worldwide for its remarkable achievements in space exploration and research. Many individuals passionate about science, space, and technology aspire to work at ISRO, but the pathway to securing a job at the esteemed space agency has remained elusive for most. However, ISRO has recently introduced a groundbreaking online training initiative called the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START), which aims to bridge this knowledge gap. The START programme offers a comprehensive introduction to various domains within space science, including Astronomy and Astrophysics, Heliophysics, Instrumentation, Aeronomy, and Sun-Earth interaction. The training sessions will be conducted by experienced scientists from both ISRO centers and Indian academic institutions. The primary objective of START is to nurture and develop a future generation of experts who will spearhead space science and research endeavors. Designed for postgraduate (PG) and final-year undergraduate (UG) students specializing in Physical Sciences and Technology, the programme provides invaluable insights into different facets of space science, research opportunities, and potential career paths. Participants will gain a broader understanding of the Indian Space Science exploration program, as well as explore the various ongoing research initiatives within the field. The START training programme not only empowers students but also enables Indian academic institutions to contribute to the growth and development of the country's space science capabilities. Interested institutions can submit their applications through the Jigyasa portal until 20th May.  With START, ISRO is taking a remarkable step forward in nurturing talent and fostering a deeper understanding of space science and technology among aspiring professionals, paving the way for a bright future in the realm of space exploration and research.

11 May 2023
Good News

Flying High: India Leads the Way With Most Female Pilots in the World

In recent years, India has become a trailblazer in the aviation industry, boasting the highest number of female pilots worldwide. Several airlines in the country have implemented policies to retain and support their female talent, making it an attractive career choice for women. These policies have made a significant impact on the number of women pursuing a career in aviation in India. According to recent statistics, women make up 12.4% of the country's total pilot workforce, compared to the global average of 5.4%. This number is expected to rise further as more women are encouraged to take up flying as a career. IndiGo offers its women pilots and crew members flexibility to continue working safely during pregnancy, excluding flying duties. It provides 26 weeks of paid maternity leave, as required by law, and also offers creches for childcare. Moreover, female pilots can choose to work on a flexible contract with two weeks of leave in a calendar month until their child reaches five years of age. Vistara, a full-service Indian airline, has also introduced measures to support its female pilots and cabin crew. Pregnant pilots and cabin crew members can opt for temporary ground jobs or administrative roles until they are ready to fly again. The increased representation of women in the aviation industry is a significant achievement for India. It reflects the country's commitment to gender equality and provides inspiration to women who aspire to break into male-dominated fields. Moreover, it highlights the importance of implementing supportive policies that help women navigate their careers while balancing their personal lives. India's success in promoting gender diversity in aviation is commendable. It is an example that other countries can follow to bridge the gender gap in traditionally male-dominated industries.

25 Apr 2023
Good News

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