Category Archives: Personal Empowerment

In 2021, three words shaped the world of work: "The Great Resignation."

Anthony Klotz, an organizational psychologist and professor at Texas A&M University, coined the phrase during an interview with Bloomberg last May to describe the wave of people quitting their jobs due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, which led many to re-think where, how and why we work.

But he never predicted what would happen next: The Great Resignation has continued to dominate headlines and stun business leaders as turnover reaches new highs. In November, a record 4.5 million workers left their jobs, according to the Labor Department's latest Job Openings and Labor Turnover report.

The Great Resignation has inspired other terms to describe the work revolution we're witnessing, including "The Great Reimagination," "The Great Reset" and "The Great Realization." These narratives explain how we're re-examining the role of work in our lives, but miss the broader consequences of this quitting wave, and what it means for the individual worker, Klotz argues.

"It's not just about getting another job, or leaving the workforce, it's about taking control of your work and personal life, and making a big decision resigning to accomplish that," he tells CNBC Make It. "This is a moment of empowerment for workers, one that will continue well into the new year."

Below, Klotz shares his three predictions for what work will look like in 2022:

Quitting will continue in 2022 but Klotz doesn't expect turnover to spike as high as it did last year.

Americans quit jobs at a record pace during the second half of 2021, and more plan to resign in the new year. About 23% of employees will seek new jobs in 2022, while 9% have already secured a new position, according to a December ResumeBuilder.com poll of 1,250 American workers.

Although Klotz predicts that quitting will continue steadily at similar, elevated rates we've seen over the past year, he's not confident that "we'll see another big quitting wave in 2022," he says.

That's because the tight labor market has pushed companies to offer better benefits and higher salaries, which Klotz says will keep employee turnover from being "completely rampant" in the months ahead.

The freedom to work from anywhere has become the most sought-after benefit during the pandemic so much so that people value flexibility as much as a 10% pay raise, according to new research from the WFH Research Project.

More companies will embrace this change to attract and retain talent, Klotz argues. "Leaders are starting to ask, 'How can we give people more power over their schedules? How can we be more flexible?'" he says.

Managers that blame external factors for turnover whether it be government leadership, the pandemic, unemployment benefits or other reasons and refuse to offer flexible work arrangements will be the "losers who struggle in the wake of the Great Resignation," Klotz adds.

Klotz expects that a flexible working culture will lead to better work-life balance and improved mental health for employees. "A silver lining of this horrible pandemic is that the world of work will take a huge positive step forward for workers," he says. "Work will fit around our personal lives rather than our personal lives fitting around work."

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Professor who predicted 'The Great Resignation' shares the 3 trends that will dominate work in 2022 - CNBC

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. explicitly spoke about leveraging the economic power of people and using it strategically to accomplish aims during his last speech at the Mason Temple in Memphis, Tennessee on the night of April 3, 1968. He urged the crowd to always anchor our external direct action with the power of economic withdrawal. He called for boycotts of specific companies because of their hiring practices and lack of support for the movement to improve the working conditions and pay of Black sanitation workers in the city.

It was a part of a larger Poor Peoples Campaign that would be the last of Dr. Kings life. His final years were spent making a very aggressive push towards economic justice.The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday is a great time to reenergize this effort and pump new momentum into creating policies and practices that will bring about a sustainable material impact on the masses.Dr. Marcus Bright

College athletes can play a major in this as they are social justice sleeping giants who have a tremendous amount of potential power that they can leverage on their campuses, surrounding areas, and hometowns to create positive change. They can the key catalysts in reinvigorating the momentum behind Dr. Kings final campaign and paving the way for the economic transformation of America.

King differentiated this economic push from previous ones by indicating that this one would be more difficult because it would ultimately cost the nation more. He said as much in a 1966 article in The Nation when he wrote that Negroes have benefitted from a limited change that was emotionally satisfying but materially deficientJobs are harder to create than voter rolls.

Economically empowering communities in 2022 is a multilayered process. The need for governmental intervention is clear. Government policies and implementation played an overwhelming role in creating present-day economic disparities and they need to play the same kind of role in reversing them.There is also a need for education and opportunity creation in areas like financial literacy, investing, cryptocurrencies, real estate, entrepreneurship, and the like.

Both personal and social responsibility are relevant and important factors in creating positive economic change. Operationalizing and making real the ideals that institutions, governments, and other entities proclaim will not happen without the strategic leveraging of the power that groups of people have.

The Rising Coaches Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Alliance is attempting to elevate the level of consciousness amongst one powerful group, college basketball players and coaches, though the facilitation of Equality and Inclusion nights throughout college basketball from February 10-22. Rising Coaches is an inclusive membership organization of over 1,500 coaches at all levels and all over the world. In October 2020 Rising Coaches partnered with a dozen social justice and minority coaching organizations to form the DEI Alliance.

During Equality and Inclusion night basketball games, coaches will wear all black on the sidelines and an equal sign pin that has been created to symbolize equality. The DEI Alliance is also encouraging teams and institutions to find an area of equality and inclusion that they would like to draw attention to and/or an organization to partner with. The Alliance is following up the Equality and Inclusion Nights with an Economic Empowerment Series that will go to college campuses and communities across the country to provide information, exposure, and connectivity to opportunities and resources through workshops and conferences.

Pooling and leveraging the power that historically excluded groups have in areas like sports and entertainment can be a gamechanger in terms of pushing policies and practices that can produce tangible economic benefits, especially for those who have been left out of the financial prosperity that America has to offer. College athletes can organize and use their elevated social status to be a vehicle to empower themselves and unlock the economic gates of opportunity for their broader communities.

Dr. Marcus Bright is a scholar and educational administrator.

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College Athletes May Be the Key to Advancing Dr. King's Final Campaign - Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

She's become known for her spicy comebacks on Real Housewives of Durban. She shook things up in her introduction episode by asking people to 'google me' when they asked who she was married to.

And as the season progressed, she was the name on the trends list.

South Africans have gotten to know a different side of her in the new season of the Mzansi Magic family show InganYam, which she's now presenting.

Reality show star and businesswoman Nonkanyiso 'LaConco' Conco is using her fame to impact peoples lives positively.

I never planned to be famous or to be on the small screen. But this seems to be the direction God is leading me towards, she tells Drum.

InganYam is a show about parents who introduce their children from the past to their spouses and families to help the children get a sense of belonging.

I am naturally a person who has an interest in uplifting and building a better community. I have always been doing it, but on a smaller scale and this show does just that but on a bigger scale, she adds.

In almost every community I have visited or where I come from. I would speak to youth, women would come to me and seek for advice, young and old.

When she was called to present InganYam, she knew that it would be difficult.

They were looking for a presenter with certain characteristics. But I took the opportunity to get a chance to work with families and have a positive result, why not?

It has always been her dream to be on the radio, but she did not see herself doing television.

My dream has always been to be on international and national radio in our country. I have done radio before, I was on Vuma FM, and a community radio station, Mgungundlovu FM when I was still at school. I saw myself growing my career in radio, but I have never in my wildest dreams thought Id be a TV presenter, she says.

With the many moving stories she deals with on the show, LaConco says she is truly moved by the story of a young couple.

This couple story truly touched me because I read through the blurred lines that this woman was living under patriarchy because her husband is a breadwinner. They fell in love, he paid lobola but theyre not fully married. But because he is a breadwinner, she was not allowed to voice her emotions and express herself, she says.

That story touched me and reminded me about the importance of self-empowerment. I saw how patriarchy is still a problem in our community and how women still allow it. I was sad and touched on behalf of this woman who agreed to be suppressed in this manner.

Read more l'Every day you have hope and lose it at the same time' - Sam Mbatha's family on his death

What to expect on season two of Real Housewives Of Durban

Soon, her fans will get to see her on the new season of Real Housewives of Durban. She came back for the new season because she believes in finishing what youve started.

In season one of the Real Housewives of Durban, she says there were misconceptions of who she might be while others understood her journey.

People thought I was ducking and diving questions about my personal life. They thought I am secretive, Im a bully and a tribalist and its incorrect, she says.

I am a very deep person, and you will understand me if you listen carefully, angikhulumi budlaba(I speak carelessly and not out of turn). The questions I avoided or chose not to answer were me protecting only what I know. I felt the timing and platform was not right, she says.

Certain cast members asked me questions when the cameras came on and they came as though they were vessels of a conspiracy. While others were kind and asked me questions off-camera and I respected that.

LaConco says people should allow her to be herself.

If they come with preconceived ideas or build ideas of who I am in their mind, they will be disappointed. I advocate for dignity and empowerment. I respect people and time. I will never ill-speak of anyone, including the father of my child. One day I will share my journey and my story and even then, I will not ill-speak about anyone, she adds.

In this coming season on Real Housewives of Durban, LaConco promises to open up a bit more to her viewers.

The only thing that some people are interested in is my personal space; the house I live in, the car I drive, and the relationship with the father of my child. I have seen comments that you would swear, I came from season one and sat there and gave nothing, she giggles.

The purpose or rather what I had in mind when I joined the show on season one was to introduce myself first. First impressions last and they will stay with that impression forever. I wanted people to know what I do for a living, how I make money, how I started my businesses, and what I stand for as a woman and view things, she says.

In season two, she will be opening up a little bit.

They will see friends coming over to my place, my car, and everything will be done at my pace and my comfortability. I had reasons for not showing people where I stay and giving out details of the father of my child. I dont care what people think in terms of their interests. I have lived my truth and I know the reasons for not opening up to those areas of my life. At the end of the day, there is a sensitive part and a national key point which is my son, and every mother wants to protect their child. But people will definitely see me become vulnerable.

Read more lFiesta Black on beating alcoholism and depression to make another comeback

LaConco on fame and the limelight

She is bold, confident and doesnt believe she has any insecurities.

I am a very content woman who is at peace. I let God work and channel through my life.

She believes in helping people before putting fame first.

Im not a person who wants to walk in a room and be recognised anywhere, she says.

There is nothing to enjoy about fame. I dont subscribe to fame. I am in peoples eyes because I appear on social media and TV. But the best thing is God putting me on this platform is to come across individuals that I can engage with and inspire, even [with something] as small as laughing or posting a picture. But its all about inspiring people. I was told that I can make people feel comfortable and vulnerable about something bothering them, she says.

Bad publicity does not affect her in the least.

You find what I call mobs and intellects. We have more mobs than intellects, people who think they know you because they see you on TV and they can have any opinion on who I am. They just talk without having met me, and they make a conclusion, she says.

But it doesnt mean that it changes my life and my truth in any way. When I read something negative on social media, I see it and I pass because I knew from the beginning that taking the step to be in the limelight will come with some positive and negative. But then Ive received helps me deal with the hate.

Read more lThis is why open your books, close your legs is dangerous MEC Ramathuba called on to apologise

Family and childhood

Her mom has been supportive of most of her decisions.

My mom supports my dreams, and my family is impressed and proud of the woman I have become, she says.

She is the opposite of her mother.

My mom is not a talkative person; she is a listener. She has one-line punches which leave me moved all the time, she says.

The best advice she has received from her mom was to always have multiple streams of income.

Growing up, I watched what she does. My mom does not sit you down and talk but acts the part. I learned from her by watching, she says. My mom was a seamstress since the early 80s. Today I am a qualified journalist through my moms hard work as a seamstress, knitting and hairdressing, being a domestic while knitting on the other hand. She has shown me versatility and taught me about multiple streams of income at a young age," LaConco says.

She did not get an opportunity to study, but she vowed to never be poor. She made a lot selling shweshwe and that inspired me. I am truly blessed to still have her alive and learning through her life I learned. My dad has always advocated for education and pushed me to study.

LaConco grew up between Kwa-Zulu Natal and Johannesburg. She had the best of both worlds, living with the Conco family home in the suburbs and also in a shack where her mom worked hard.

"I had a good childhood, the best of both worlds. We didn't have a tv, and she kept her shack clean, I was clean and my school friends were shocked to learn that I lived in a shack because I had everything I needed at school and I was clean.

The best people to ask about my childhood were my schoolmates, neighbours and friends who shared with me that they are not surprised on how I turned out because Ive always been an open, honest child and I grew up matured, she says.

I was never hit for breaking curfew or being naughty. I was never that person from high school. I grew up old, I have an old soul. I was neat, covered my body at all times. At myehlolweni(virginity testing ceremony),I was the one taking care of everyone and sharing food with everyone. At school, my friends were the teachers, I could relate more with them. I would have more conversations with older people. I was never a problematic child, she says.

But life was not perfect, and she had challenges she overcame as a young girl.

"My mom lived in Matatiele, I lived with my dad and MaMemela was a lady that raised me, as a stepmom. There were days when I needed my biological mom and it affected some areas of my education, but I pulled through because my mom wanted me to have a good education.

LaConco is, however, grateful for all her childhood experiences.

Because of the hardships, I started selling sweets, chips, and airtime at school. But it was not allowed, and they would often confiscate my goods and I would start over. I then sold only sweets that I kept in my pocket. I had to sell something for me to make money to have lunch and taxi fare. I learned entrepreneurial patience at school. My childhood taught me to make decisions to protect myself, she adds.

Dreams and purpose

LaConco studied Media and Journalism at Varsity College.

Ive done a lot of jobs in stage productions for award ceremonies, eventing for big brands, and facilitation. I worked on radio and did community volunteer work, visiting adult homes and cleaning.

Last year she recovered from Covid-19, which really gave her something to live for.

It was extreme, one of the worst cases of Covid-19. The only way I conquered was to keep a positive mind, as I do with all my challenges, she says.

The mom of one doesnt subscribe to New Years resolutions but has long-term goals.

I plan to get closer to my creator and try to invest more for my son, she says. The little steps I am taking and growing is to see myself being able to invest.

LaConco is working to expand her brand.

Exactly what I prayed for last year I received, it was visible. This year I am working on growing and securing more bags. The business must make more money and be able to live off it. LaConco Naturals is a long-term business and a legacy for my child. I am investing in my growth.

She believes, the sky is the limit,

My dream is to absolutely allow God to use me in instilling hope in everyone I cross paths with. In time, I will share the struggles and the pain I have lived. A year ago, my life was not this way and in time I will share how my life transformed in the space of a year, she says.

Her advice to others is to never fear anything.

I am not easily shaken or fearful. My advice to people is to always remain in your lane and dont be fearful. People are living with stress and worry. Our lives dont belong to us but to God. John 1 verse 14 explained the truth of God and how we should live. That verse is my theme for 2022, she says.

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Inside the mind of RHOD star Nonkanyiso 'LaConco' Conco - News24

Whether with a champagne cork pop or a meditative stillness, with the beginning of a new year an urgency for change arises for many of us. The 'new'brings promise and responsibility, and - at the same time - it spreads this untouched, uncoloured quilt of months, weeks and days calling us to respond - what am I going to do differently? What is that promise Im making to myself? How will I action my dreams and plans?

Setting goals may be the first step to creating the life we want. We organise our actions around accomplishing those goals and we get our daily motivation from them. Our goals are the expression of our conscious reflection about ourselves and our lives. Are they, though?

Lets start with reflecting whether the desired results we strive to achieve are truly ours. Often, we succumb to the outside expectations, 'recipes for happiness', we turn our eyes and ears to the teachers, gurus, friends, family, and strangers to find out what a good, successful, happy life is, what do we need to DO, GET, MAKE, BE LIKE to be fulfilled.

What we want, or think we want, is largely a product of social conditioning. We pursue objects and experiences which we believe will bring us happiness, but it is not necessarily true. The more remote from our personal values our goals are, the bigger chance well fail somewhere on the way chasing them.

It is worth dedicating time to self-inquiry and formulating goals that reflect our personal truth. This is how we ignite passion and joy even in the most challenging moments. But when we try to reach objectives adopted from other people without thought, the process often turns into an ordeal.

Do we tell ourselves that only when achieving our goals or when our lives are successful? Do we condition our happiness on that future result? If so, then we open ourselves to failure from the start. We 'abandon'the present moment and deprive ourselves of the possibility to feel fulfilment and joy NOW. We 'outsource'the responsibility of our happiness to uncontrollable events and objects, while trying to control what is beyond our power - the exact outcomes of our actions.

The traditional approach to goal setting most times is rigid and strict, and potentially harmful to our sense of self and our self-esteem. "Success is only achieved when the goal is accomplished, otherwise, its failure"- and too often we see ourselves as failures when not getting the result we assumed. Attachment to the desired 'success'also makes us focus our attention on the future - as happiness is conditioned by achieving the goal. It distances us from the only reality we have - the present moment. It doesnt appreciate progress, nor gives us the means to measure progress.

If we set our goals in a traditional, solely outcome-validating manner, we might often find ourselves rushing to achieve them, becoming stressed when we see no or little progress and burning out from lack of motivation. We are set to fail as we chase an impossible dream - we believe we can control the outcome and we condition our sense of fulfilment on that unattainable goal.

All this is not to say that there is no point in setting goals, or that we should remain passive as we cannot control any outcomes. On the contrary, we need the clarity and motivation offered by goal setting, but we want to do it mindfully. So, what does that mean exactly?

Start with mindful meditation.

Set your goals from that place of intimate connection with yourself. Dont worry if you cannot describe or specify them right away. Sometimes you need to allow them to mature in your mind, let the heart and mind communicate to find the right name and description of your goals. With kindness and curiosity towards yourself, continue the self-inquiry. Connect with your values.

Begin by describing yourself using active verbs, not just adjectives. Paint a self-portrait with words that carry meaning. You may say: 'I enjoy finding new ways to use old things; I like being creative and I pay attention to the natural environment'or 'I am a person who likes to question old systems and beliefs, and I enjoy being challenged'.

From there, focus your attention on what you value most in life. Go further, beyond the mental images of what your mind tells you is important for you, and you might discover what truly matters to you.

Your values are reflected in the answers to questions such as: How do I want to be as a human being? How do I want to behave? What are my deepest desires for myself as a person? Your values show you how you want to treat yourself and others. They reveal your lifes direction, they form the internal compass that guides you and gives your life meaning and purpose. Values are very individual - there are no right or wrong values, and people have different values.

Look for inspiration in values 'checklists'such as offered by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy creators or other spiritual sources. What rings true the most? Examples of values that go beyond family, status, friendship, or moneyare acceptance, compassion, cooperation, humility, reciprocity, self-development, trust, security etc. Notice how your values relate not only to your own life but also to the lives of others and the world. Reflect on the impact of pursuing your goals on your environment - what is your contribution?

If your values are simplicity and creativity, then setting a goal to have a bigger apartment in the busy city centre or taking up a well-paid but monotonous job will not fill you with a sense of meaning and passion. What matters to others might not matter to you and thats ok.

Set your goals from a place of connection and alignment. Be inclusive and trusting. Let go of control and judgment and rely on your sense of meaning and intuition. You will experience challenges, failures, and setbacks but, when you pursue goals that are meaningful for you and your values are clear, its easier to face the obstacles. They dont rid you of the sense of accomplishment because taking action and staying focused on your goals is enough to feel like your life ALREADY has a purpose. It is the journey, the everyday decisions, the baby steps, and the sense of continuous progress that create a feedback loop of self-motivation and reward.

As you pursue your goals, keep the spirit of inquiry and adventure alive. Embrace the uncertainty and be aware of the moment-to-moment experience - only then can you respond creatively without losing sight of your values and goals. When the situation gets complicated, revise how attached to the outcomes you are and how much more you can let go of control. Respond to problems and challenges with your values in your heart and mind, the decisions will then come easily and with less hesitation or doubt.

When you concentrate on what you can do now, when you pay attention to how you grow throughout the process of working towards your goals, when you notice your expansion as you progress - you gain a greater sense of empowerment and control over your life. With this mindful approach, setting and pursuing your goals becomes a transformative experience - a sustainable life change rather than a single point-in-time shift. And any outcome makes an occasion to celebrate rather than a reason to value ourselves or our lives.

Daga Cybruch is an Ibiza based counsellor and writer, collaborating with various projects focused on personal development and mental and emotional wellbeing. You can find out more about Daga at IbizaTherapist.com.

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Marrying the Present With the Future - A guest column - Ibiza Spotlight

This writer will resist the near- irresistible temptation to sound scriptural because this piece is not about a Reverend Father in one corner of the world but about someone whose instruction from the President of his nation is to make significant changes towards positive direction for the 48 year old national institution known as the National Youth Service Corps scheme (NYSC)-Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim.

I spoke about resisting a temptation to sound like someone writing on theological matters because the title of this piece owes its etymology from a highly revered and venerated religious icon that commands the adulation and worship of billions of people around the globe.

However, looking at the title from a holistic perspective, the picture that emerges in our subconscious is the yearning by a leader for critical appraisal and assessment from his close lieutenants concerning the general views about his personal life and activities.

In the school of leadership, what contributes significantly to reaching success is the inclination by the leader to ascertain what exactly people think about him/her and the impacts made or being made as a result of the implementation of his/her tasks.

This is called FEEDBACK mechanism and even in the media industry, newspapers and broadcasting houses have space and time for their audiences to feed them back on their opinions concerning quality control or lack of it in the works of those media houses. In other words, media houses such as newspapers usually concede a page which they devote to peoples opinions and letters to the editor.

In this reflection we will do some contents analysis of what the media has in the last two years written about the person of the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim who just got elevated in his professional rank from his hitherto rank of Brigadier General to a Major General which in the military circles is regarded as a reward for excellence, merit and competence because military promotions are performance and merit based.

There is virtually no provision for Godfather influences to the best of my knowledge.

For the last two weeks that this gentleman of the military profession got elevated, there have been an outpouring of goodwill messages and praises from even unexpected quarters.

I said unexpected because it is generally known that prophets are almost always not respected and celebrated in their hometowns literally but in the case of the Director General of the NYSC Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim, it would seem that the general rule was suspended and his own people of Nasarawa State and his primary constituency the military have celebrated him and have made it abundantly clear that they are proud of the modest achievements he has made in the NYSC specifically and in virtually all of his career history.

From his primary constituency, the Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General IM Yusuf commended the NYSC Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim for his giant strides in the Scheme.

He made the commendation today when he played host to the Director-General, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

Describing Ibrahim as a source of pride to the Nigerian Armed Forces, he remarked that his achievements in NYSC were consistent with the qualities of hard work, dedication, selflessness and dynamism, which he demonstrated in his previous appointments.

General Yusuf recalled the Director-Generals contributions to the success of the NDA, especially as Head of History and War Studies Department as well as TETFUND Desk Officer.

He noted Ibrahims leading roles in securing accreditation for courses of the History and War Studies Department, adding: It was to his credit that NDA hosted a conference of the Historical Society of Nigeria for the first time, he added.

He said his achievements in NYSC did not come as a surprise given his known standard of performance.

The Commandant congratulated Ibrahim on his promotion to the rank of Major General, describing it as well deserved.

He said the Academy would continue to support the Scheme, especially in the area of Corps Welfare.

Earlier, the Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim, thanked the Commandant for the mentorship he enjoyed from him, describing him as a thoroughbred senior officer.

He expressed appreciation of the support NDA had been extending to NYSC, especially as one of the largest Corps employers.

Ibrahim particularly thanked the Commandant for prioritising the welfare of Corps members, including provision of accommodation and feeding for them while on transit.

He assured that the Corps Members would continue to put in their best in the service of the fatherland.

From his State, the Governor of Nasarawa State Abdullahi Sule described the recently promoted Director General of the National Youth Service Corps Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim as a worthy ambassador of Nasarawa people for his strategic role in redefining the operations of the NYSC Scheme as a catalyst of development.

He said his achievements were testified by the Founding father of the NYSC General Yakubu Gowon and many State Governors who appreciated his impactful leadership in reinventing the NYSC and making it more relevant.

Sule, an Engineer was a Special Guest of Honour during the GRAND reception organised in honour of the NYSC DG for his elevation to the rank of a Major General in the Nigerian Army.

He paid glowing tribute to General Shuaibu, and admitted that the DG worked hard to deserve his elevation especially in the area of empowering corps members through Skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development, reinvigoration of NYSC ventures and ensuring provision of a comprehensive documentation of NYSC activities and interventions in national development agenda.

Im a proud Governor because every state you go, the Governor will speak eloquently about the way you have redefined the Youth Service Corps in his state. You came , you saw and you have redefined the NYSC through many interventions which you mostly created the Governor stated.

Speaking further, Sule commended the new policy drive of the NYSC aimed at empowering corps members through

acquisition of skills for self-employment which he said is the best option out of the problem of unemployment for our teeming graduate youths .

In their separate goodwill messages, the Emir of Keffi Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa and House of Representatives member representing Nasarawa Toto Federal Constituency in Nasarawa State, Honourable Ari Mohammed Abdulmumini expressed delight at the unprecedented achievements recorded by General Shuaibu which earned him successive promotions up to Major General especially his numerous accomplishments in the NYSC Scheme.

They both said Nasarawa state people are proud to be associated with his uncommon achievements and wish him more success in future.

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development , represented by his Permanent Secretary Alh Ismaila Abubakar commended the Director General for providing the required leadership which motivated staff to support him in achieving the successess recorded. He urged him not to relent in his efforts to further elevate the NYSC Sheme to greater heights.

In her remarks on behalf of NYSC Staff and Corps members nationwide, the Director, Information and Communication Technology, (ICT) Mrs Christy Uba enumerated the achievements of General Shuaibu to include among others; optimum utilisation of the potentials of corps members, reinvigoration of NYSC Ventures and Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship (SAED) programme, enforcement of a credible mobilization process, documentation of NYSC activities , enhancement of staff and Corps welfare, provision of ICT Centre, proposed NYSC Radio among others.

Responding thereafter, General Shuaibu thanked God for His grace in his successive elevation in the Military and appreciated the Governor of Nasarawa State, Community Leaders, Staff and Corps members for the uncommon honour.

The NYSC Director General expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for finding him worthy to be so appointed as the Chief Executive of the NYSC Scheme. He equally appreciated the Minister of Defence and Chief of Army Staff for believing in his capacity and their endorsement of his promotion to the rank of a Major General after earning a steady elevation in the last 28 years of his career.

The DG further stated that his principles in life is targeted towards touching lives and pledges to devote his life in furtherance of this philosophy.

All I have achieved in life was as a result of prayers of those I have come across in the course of my life, he stated.

He commended various stakeholders of the Scheme for their support and called on them to sustain their advocacy for the success of the proposed NYSC Trust Fund which aims at empowering youth Corps members and addressing infrastructural challenge of the Scheme.

The Director-General has also got direct commendation from his erstwhile department where he headed before he got appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari to reorganise, reshape, reinvigorate the NYSC which he has so far made remarkable and appreciable evolutionary achievements.

As stated earlier, the Department of History and War Studies of the Nigerian Defence Academy had hosted the NYSC Director-General, Shuaibu Ibrahim, to a reception in celebration of his promotion to the rank of Major General.

Speaking on the occasion, the Head of Department, Associate Professor Victor Akran, expressed appreciation of the Director-Generals sustained passion for the Department and the entire NDA.

He recalled the various feats achieved by Ibrahim as Head of the Department, and expressed gratitude to him for remaining supportive.

The HOD congratulated the Director-General on his promotion and prayed God to continue to elevate him.

Responding, the Director-General reminisced on the cordial working relationship he enjoyed with all Staff of the Department noting that, that contributed to the successes recorded.

He thanked them for honouring him, and assured that the relationship would continue to be strengthened.

The Director-General also used the occasion to eulogize the NYSC family for giving him all the necessary support leading to his success as helmsman of the Scheme. Still from the academia came a plethora of commendations for the Director-General of NYSC.

The Management of Federal University Lokoja joined the league of eminent Nigerians to congratulate the NYSC Director-General on his elevation to the new rank of Major General in the Nigeran Army.

The Institutions Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, who led a delegation from the institution to deliver the congratulatory message to Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim in his office in Abuja this past week, said the University is delighted to associate with the landmark achievements recorded by the DG since he assumed duty in NYSC.

He canvassed support for the continuity of the NYSC Scheme especially the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme, adding that SAED has empowered a large number of graduate youths to become self reliant.

The don, who relayed his service year experiences added that, We are proud of what you and your team are doing. NYSC must be protected because it is for the unity of the country.

In his response, the NYSC Director-General, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and also lauded him for the congratulatory visit.

He added that NYSC has been interfacing with relevant institutions like the National Universities Commission (NUC), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), among others to inject more sanity into the mobilisation process of eligible graduates for national service.

Major General Ibrahim said there was the need to review the school curriculum and introduce Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development as it would expose students to vocational skills before they graduate.

He said the Scheme has partnered many institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bank of Industry (BoI) Access Bank, Heritage Bank, Leventis Foundation and other agricultural institutions like NALDA and ARMTI towards training and empowerment of Corps Members that have passion for agriculture.

The DG added that efforts are on top gear for the establishment of NYSC Trust Fund which will make funds available to Corps Members to start their businesses as they exit service.

He said the proposed Trust Fund would also enable improved maintenance of Orientation Camp facilities and NYSC Skill Acquisition Centres across the country.

We urge the Federal University Lokoja and other stakeholders to support us in youth empowerment, the DG added.

During the visit, the Director-General led the University team on a tour of the NYSC Museum and NYSC Radio Studio, both at the National Directorate Headquarters Abuja.

In a similar development, the Abuja Zonal Head of TAJ Bank, Mellisa Adesina today led a delegation from the bank to congratulate Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim on his recent elevation.

She said the bank is working on a modality to partner NYSC on Entrepreneurship Training for Corps Members and also contribute its quota to national development.

General Ibrahim appreciated the bank and promised the Schemes readiness to improve SAED programme and reduce unemployment in the country. We will partner with you, he said.

Around March 5, 2020 almost a full year before he got promoted, the DG made a remark to corpers that goes to define his passion for seeing that the youths are economically empowered to stand on their own after the mandatory one year national service.

General Shaibu Ibrahim, had advised the outgoing corps members to embrace credit facilities to save the frustration of searching endlessly for scarce jobs.

This was contained in his farewell speech at the passing out parade of the 2019 Batch A corps members at the old parade ground in Abuja on Thursday.

Ibrahim saluted the patriotic spirit and commended the efforts of the corps members during their service year and also acknowledged that they have positively impacted the socio-economic well-being of the host communities.

Indeed, Nigerians deeply appreciate your contributions to the national development process, especially in the areas of education, healthcare delivery, agriculture and infrastructure as well as the uncommon patriotism and diligence exhibited in the discharge of your responsibilities in your respective host communities, he said.

The NYSC DG said the corps members exemplary selfless service rendered at the place of their primary assignment and community developments efforts are truly worthy of commendation.

Your affinity to your host communities during your primary assignments should equally form the basis of life-long friendships, national unity and integration, which is the major reason for establishing the NYSC Scheme.

My dear compatriots, the end of the service year represents an important period in the life of every Corps Member. It marks the end of a phase of dependence on the government, parents and guardians for upkeep. It is a period when those who have imbibed the lessons of the service year are ready to explore and conquer the wider world, Ibrahim said.

He added that the passing out corps members have been adequately equipped for the future with their exposure to the realities of life during their national assignment.

It is now time to apply the lessons learnt from the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurial Training to make the right decisions for your future.

I admonish you also to shun negative tendencies and other social vices. Given your level of education and strengthened by the experience of the service year, you must remain focused, resolute and confident in your ability to earn a decent living from genuine and honest endeavours, he said.

He, therefore, wished all the corps members safe journey to their various destinations and also implored them to be security conscious as they traveled.

It is my fervent prayer that the Almighty God will continually guide and protect you. I wish you well in your future endeavours, he concluded.

Have you now known who the people say the Director-General of NYSC is? Now here are snippets of some reasons for these praises.

Without any shadow of doubts, the DG of NYSC said the scheme remitted over N1 billion into the federation account between 2020 and 2021.

Ibrahim said the money was generated from different business initiatives established by the NYSC.

He told Nigerias Permanent Representative to the United Nations Tijjani Bande who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja recently.

in an unprecedented feat, the Scheme remitted over one billion Naira generated as revenue from its various ventures to the federal account between 2020 and 2021, he said in a statement issued by the schemes Deputy Director Press and Public Relations Emeka Mgbemena.

Findings show that the NYSC Ventures were created in 2012 as training and mentoring platforms for corps members interested in entrepreneurship development. Initiatives and funds generated through the ventures are expected to contribute to the nations Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Ventures Department also produces corps members kits and other supplies to orientation camps nationwide. They include NYSC Garment Factories located in Minna, Niger State; and Mgbaku, Anambra State.

The NYSC Rice Mill in Ezillo; NYSC Bakery and Water Factory, Kubwa, Abuja; NYSC Feed Mill in lpaja, Lagos State; NYSC Entertainment Company Limited, which comprises the NYSC Nationa! Band, NYSC National Troupe and the NYSC Movie, are all registered.

Also, there are also NYSC Farms in Kwali, FCT, and Saminaka, Kebbi State.

Meanwhile, in a bid to enhance credibility of the mobilisation process and safeguard the nations education system, the DG announced it held separate meetings with corps producing institutions based in some African countries, including relevant Nigerian regulatory and professional bodies.

Through public sensitisation, production and distribution of face masks, hand sanitisers and liquid soap, Ibrahim also identified some COVID-19 preventive intervention measures deployed by the corps members.

Other achievements listed by the DG were the completion of NYSC North-West and South-West zonal skill acquisition centres, the commencement of work on the centre for the North-Central; publication of nine books on the achievements of the scheme; the establishment of a museum; the process of establishing the NYSC Radio, and the construction of NYSC Printing Press in Kaduna State.

Earlier, Bande had applauded the scheme, describing it as a well-thought-out initiative for youth engagement in the nation.

He stressed that matters of youth development were central to the progress of any country, adding that Nigeria had, through the NYSC, demonstrated recognition of youths as critical assets.

The diplomat, who noted that the scheme had broadened the knowledge of youths about the country and instilled patriotic zeal in them, also expressed delight at its current focus on the empowerment of corps members for self-employment.

He commended Ibrahim for his achievements since taking office as chief executive of the scheme.

To answer the question, I think it is appropriate to say that people say the Director-General of NYSC Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim is a charismatic leader who has passion for building legacies that will make transformational changes in Nigeria and the World at large.

EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO is head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was National Commissioner at the Nigerian National Human Rights Commission.

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Emmanuel Onwubiko: NYSC DG and the national youths job - Daily Post Nigeria

Covid-19 has upended ordinary life as we know it. The elderly have been hardest hit by the pandemic. The youth hasn't been spared either. WFH, vaccines, boosters, lockdowns et all have entered our daily lexicon.

Amidst all this, is a book called 'A Slice of Life'which is a fictional potpourri of extraordinary narratives of ordinary people who have more to their everyday lives beneath the surface. These stories reflect myriad hues of human behaviour. Smita Das Jain, the author of the book is a Personal Empowerment Life Coach, Executive Coach, Speaker, and Writer. A Slice of Life, as the name suggests, the book provides us slices of life on a platter. From a husband who does a sacrifice that no one else does to two friends who choose their friendship above everything else, the boom talks about relationships, their depth, and how we can think differently and act above stereotypes.

Referring to her writing process as a matter of discipline, she highlights that she wakes early every morning to work on a word document from scratch. She explains that she doesn't write with a set plot in mind and let her characters lead her in the stories. She finds the idea of following any plot very boring and has written a couple of stories that way but didnt like the output, so she prefers to be spontaneous for her work. Smita takes inspiration from real-life "Truth is stranger than fiction, and the more you get to observe people and things around you, the more stories you will get to narrate. The characters in all my stories are real people in a fictional setting, and that is why they are so relatable. " says the author.

Different human feelings and emotions are being well expressed through the stories in the book. The reflection of reality is well shown in these stories which makes it even more interesting to read. The author has used simple words, letting the readers easily relate to each and every story.

It's a well-layered book with good narration and the words used in the book are pretty simple and easy making it a comfortable read for all types of readers. Each chapter leaves an impact on the heart and minds of the readers. It did capture the essence of the feelings of a human being in the different situations of life. It's a beautiful reflection of reality and human life. The author ends and begins the book with very sweet stories, making you smile right at the beginning, and leaving you with a smile at the end of it as well.

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`A Slice Of Life` -Short stories about various aspects of life - Zee News

Youve probably seen Kourtney Kardashian strung up in laced latex trousers and a corset, with diamond-capped canine fangs. Or noticed Megan Fox in a blood red crystal gown at last years Met Gala, every inch a chic Draculas Bride? If so, youll already know something is lurking. Introducing ultra-glam gothcore, the fresh trend to die for.

Femme fatale fashion isnt new, but unlike its boom in the Eighties and Noughties, the 2022 incarnation is about killer attitude for girls, boys, and everyone in-between. Look again at Kourtney. For every lace-up leather bustier mini dress and crucifix necklace she wears, her new beau, heavily tattooed rock star Travis Barker, is holding her hand in studded suits, skull patch biker jackets and red plaid trousers. Their Christmas picture could be The Addams Family (but wearing new Givenchy), plus they got engaged in a ring of roses and flickering candles. Gothic 101.

Megan Fox channels Draculas Bride chic at 2021s Met Gala

Today, it is less Bauhaus, Siouxsie Sioux and The Cure bands that scored the subculture the first time around. Gen Z have a pop culture clean slate, where everyone from singers Olivia Rodrigo to Billie Eilish are involved, and costumes are straight off the runway. Nevertheless, the original mindset has stuck: reject the norms, wear what you want, and dont give a toss what your parents think.

I definitely love the gothy, tough girl, says Casey Cadwallader, Creative Director of Mugler and mastermind behind some of Megan Foxs most shocking looks. The transparent, rhinestone dress she wore to 2021s VMAs was by Cadwallader, as was her Billboard Music Awards spider-like, cut out body suit and sheer skirt (Foxs peak gothcore outing). Megan picks the most smouldering things we make, he says. And she carries them with this oozing confidence and sultry look thats just like I dare you to mess with me.

Amber Valetta in Mugler AW21, photographed by Davit Giorgadze

In 2018 Cadwallader took over the house that originally helped kick goth style into high fashion. Think women as beetles in wasp-waist leather corsets, or latex bodice gowns with huge lace Medici collars, circa 1997. Cadwallader has studied all that and condensed it for today. [Now] is a lot more about personal empowerment and toughness, he says. Its also about diversity. Youll find Hunter Schafer of Euphoria, and Dominique Jackson from Pose (two of the most prominent trans actors of the moment) on the catwalk alongside model royalty Irina Shayk and Amber Valletta. I have an openness towards what it means to be sexy, and find to be feminine or masculine genderless. Were here for the bold. Youre either with it or youre not, says Cadwallader.

Its that freedom of expression which defines new-gen goth and it is blowing up. On TikTok, #goth videos have nine billion views, while the taste for terror grows; in the past two months searches for patent leather platform boots are up 71 per cent, black leather coats 35 per cent, and chokers 81 per cent, according to fashion search engine Lyst. Goth is a visible reaction against the toxic positivity of previous years, says Brenda Otero, Lysts Cultural Insights Manager. That means no more edited images plonked on beaches, like Instagram of old. Its an acknowledgement of how people really feel, and how dressing with a certain mood in mind can help channel dark feelings.

Candle wigs burned on heads at Charles Jeffreys LOVERBOY SS22

LOVERBOY designer Charles Jeffrey agrees. When you think about subcultures like gothic, its very direct and immediate, says the man known for mixing historical silhouettes with a punk edge. It makes sense some people utilise that to help express something they are going through, but might not want to talk about. His SS22 collection opened with gothic ruff collars, lace skirts, and wigs of melted candles still burning. Theres this dark, post-apocalyptic, even futuristic trench coat look I feel coming forward, he says. A tumblr-y, TikTok-y, sweaty, makeup heavy sort of space. Big baggy cargo trousers, busted up jackets and big boots. Thats all a bit goth. Its about being yourself, and enjoying it.

That means head to toe. Lady Gaga and Bimini Bon Boulash, star of RuPauls Drag Race UK, both opt for patent leather platforms try London-based brand ROKER which heels the inside fashion set. The unisex shoes have corset-like lacing, and helped create Harris Reeds statement H-Boots, which come in spiked and studded glory. With tresses, go boldly into the night. Hair is the defining accessory to any subculture, says Anthony Turner, the hairstylist who finesses Kate Moss and gels Gigi Hadid (and is himself an ex-Goth). Its part of the theatricality and the eccentricity of the goth world. And it sends a message: this is me, and I dont give a shit. Trying it at home? Grab Boots Perfect Colour black hair dye, a backcomb and you are away.

Shaun Leane Spine Corset, Untitled 1998, shot by Ann Ray

As for jewellery, goth glam is about the subtle subversions, and Shaun Leanes Hook and Talon earrings are the star. Its definitely primal and seductive, says the man who worked side by side with Alexander McQueen, the authority on macabre fashion. He first produced this silhouette for McQueens SS96 Hunger collection, and went on to make the iconic spinal corset that came life size, with silver ribs and vertebrae tail, for SS98.

You can satisfy a craving for coffin chic on the high street, as well as luxury retailers. H&M has a patent vegan leather trench, Miaou is the go-to for corsets and Zara does cut-out, strappy mini dresses. Or keep it authentic, and head to Camden for the vintage leather shops. Any investment is long-term. This is a trend we are backing for the season ahead, says Libby Page, senior market editor at Net-a-Porter. A black bodysuit paired with denim or tailored trousers is an easy first step for anyone looking to try it out, together with a chunky boot which can add edge to all outfits.

It will last longer than just this season, too. Anna Sui, the American designer who has mixed whimsy with darker undertones since the Nineties, says: We are constantly inspired by this glamorous and sexy genre. Its great escapism, plus it looks so cool! Why not indulge now? As Sui puts it: Reality is scarier than gothic fiction at this point.

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Come over to the dark side the rise of gothcore - Evening Standard

Addressing the negativeeffects of the pandemic on young people was the main theme of the Co-Design Workshop for the European Year of Youth 2022, organised on 14 January by the Office of the Commissioner of the Citizens, the National Coordinator for the Year of Youth, at the PwC Cyprus Experience Center in Nicosia. The aim of the workshop was to ensure the necessary cooperation between the Ministries and Government Departments involved, as well as the associations of young people in Cyprus, in order to achieve the objectives of the European Year of Youth.

The Workshop was attended by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth, Prodromos Prodromou, the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Kyriakos Kokkinos and the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Anastasia Anthousi. The Workshop was also attended by Alexandra Attalidou on behalf of the House of Representatives, Permanent Secretaries and other officials from Ministries and government departments, semi-governmental organisations, the Cyprus Youth Organisation, the Delegation of the European Commission and the European Parliament Office in Cyprus, the Conference of Rectors of Cyprus Universities, as well as representatives of the Cyprus Youth Council and other youth associations.

Year 2022 has been designated by the European Union as the European Year of Youth, taking into account the impact of the pandemic on young people. The main objective is to ensure access to opportunities for the young generation in the post-pandemic period, as well as to encourage the participation of young people in the democratic and social life of the member states, in support of a more digital and inclusive Europe.

During his presentation, the Commissioner for the Citizen, Panayiotis Sentonas, referred to the objectives of the National Plan for the Year of Youth, as well as their interconnection with the European Youth Objectives, which include, among others, gender equality, inclusive societies, mental health and well-being, ensuring employment for all, improving the quality of learning, and green and digital transition.

He added that The European Year of Youth gives us the opportunity to focus on how to re-open perspectives and opportunities for the young generation in the post-pandemic period, through green and digital transition and the implementation of the NextGenerationEU Recovery Plan.

In his introductory speech theMinister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth, Prodromos Prodromou, pointed out that young people need immediate support and empowerment: Providing more and better opportunities for young people, especially the less privileged, is crucial and should be opened up at all levels: local, national and European.

Minister Prodromou placed emphasis on the new Student Evaluation Plan, the new Education and Teachers evaluation plan, as well as the plan for a better match between higher and secondary education curricula.

The Minister said that some of the aforementioned reforms have been included for support in the Cyprus-Tomorrow Recovery and Resilience Plan, while a number of actions are being implemented by other government departments with the support of both national and European funds.

Addressing the young people who participated in the workshop, Kyriakos Kokkinos, Deputy Minister for Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, explained that actions will be developed together with the young people themselves. He added that these are actions for the co-design of policies and broad dissemination of the importance of digital transformation for a new development model that our country needs so much, which lays the foundations for a thriving, competitive economy and a prosperous, inclusive society.

He also referred to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, in which 282 million, on top of23% of the total investment, is dedicated to digitally-led actions, which aim to equip young people with the necessary tools, knowledge and skills for their personal, social and professional development.

In her address, the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Anastasia Anthousi referred to the role of the Deputy Ministry in achieving the objectives for the empowerment of young people in the country, the most important of which is the promotion of strategies from childhood onwards. The Deputy Ministry has created the National Action Plan in collaboration with all relevant services, which will be submitted to the European Commission in March 2022.

The Deputy Minister added that the empowerment of young people in care is achieved in parallel through the institution of semi-independent living, with the aim being to implement skills development programmes in cooperation with voluntary organisations and other bodies such as the local authorities, thus broadening the prospects for professional and social integration.

Anthousi also said that the Deputy Ministry is investing through the Recovery and Resilience Plan in expanding the availability of affordable childcare centres for infants and children up to the age of 3 years and 8 months.

See the rest here:

Workshop for the European Year of Youth aims to address the negative effects of the pandemic - in-cyprus

Despite global advances in disability rights, stigma towards individuals diagnosed with mental illness is common across the African continent. In Ghana, research has shown that one of the main roots of stigmatisation is the belief that mental illnesses are caused by supernatural forces, including spiritual punishment for parents misdeeds. As a result, Ghanaians with mental illness are often mistreated (sometimes violently), mocked by family members and even denied access to their children.

In some cases, parents abandon their mentally ill relatives, either locking them away in their homes or leaving them in spiritual camps where they may suffer abuse and neglect. Where facilities are available, some parents send mentally ill children to psychiatric hospitals.

Ghana has three main psychiatric hospitals. All are in the southern part of the country. But even in these cases, the patients are often abandoned for years on end, and healthcare providers themselves have been known to mistreat patients, deny them food and medicine, and even forcibly detain and physically abuse them.

Ghanas mental health authority was established by an act of parliament in 2012 to implement policies appropriate for the treatment of individuals diagnosed with mental illness.

The denial of basic human rights is a significant national issue, because as many as 10% of the population live with mild mental illness and 1%-3% live with severe mental illness. Due to stigma, neglect and abuse, many of them are also rendered powerless and voiceless.

In our research Ghanaians tell their stories about mental illness. We spoke to 10 about their experiences. Their narratives about stigma and discrimination offer important grassroots accounts of the lived experience of mental illness in Ghana, which we hope can contribute to better policy and programmes in the future.

In the first phase of our research we collected stories from 10 current and former in-patients at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital. Located in the nations capital, the hospital is Ghanas first formal psychiatric institution and is one of three main government funded psychiatric hospitals in the country.

In-depth interviews with the participants revealed many insights into stigma towards mental illness.

They reported constantly being reminded of their illnesses through derogatory remarks and name-calling by family members, friends, and strangers in the community. Some referred more explicitly to the problem of stigma in their daily lives. Others were (or are) involuntarily institutionalised, abused physically by family members and strangers, and banished from public spaces. These experiences harmed our participants deeply at a personal level. They felt fear and shame, which led them to hide their conditions from the public, conceal hospital visits and withdraw from their communities.

Most important, perhaps, was the extent to which the patients (most of whom were Christian) had internalised the belief that mental illness has spiritual causes.

One told us:

I was brought here (to the hospital) because of the spirit that entered my room.

Spiritual causes were believed to result from sin or curses imposed by others. After admitting to consuming alcohol and taking marijuana, one patient said that a fellow church member attributed the mental illness to sin and insisted that he needed to ask for forgiveness. Another believed that they had been under a curse that the enemy has used against me to destroy my life.

Internalised stigma often produced feelings of shame among our participants, and a reluctance to admit that they were patients at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital. One participant told us that when he had to attend appointments using public transport, he always alighted far away from the entrance so that his fellow passengers would not know he struggled with mental illness. Another participant hid his diagnosis from friends and acquaintances, only telling them that he was visiting the hospital.

In many cases, the sense of shame was reinforced by experiences of discrimination and abuse driven by stigma. Informants spoke of being cheated by market traders, for examples and even physically abused.

I was getting my hair cut in a barbering salon when two men came in and dragged me into a car on the street.

The men apparently did not feel it appropriate for someone with mental illness to get a haircut in public.

But spiritual beliefs also provided a coping mechanism for mentally ill Ghanaians suffering from stigma and abuse. Some of them thanked God for whatever happened and ascribed their illnesses to Gods plan, because experiencing mental illness brought life lessons and personal growth.

One found refuge in God and the church.

They sometimes call me an illiterate and even tell me my head is not well shaped. You know wisdom and knowledge, it is God that gives it. But I do not care because I know God created us in his own image Thank God, all the challenges I face within my society I am able to handle it.

Coping mechanisms and resilience were one of the more surprising findings of our study. Their existence should not, however, be used as an excuse for inaction. Religion might offer a place of refuge, but it is also part of the larger problem of stigma, which in turn lies at the root of many of our participants negative experiences.

Sharing their stories may provide a sense of empowerment, through engaging in discourse that could help destigmatise mental illness. Beyond this, it offers the hope that publicising the lived experiences of mental illness would encourage the Ghanaian government and citizenry to respond out of a sense of duty, necessity and community. Part of that response should be the provision of resources, including personnel, to treat individuals diagnosed with mental illness.

Originally posted here:

Mental health patients in Ghana share their stories about stigma and suffering - The Conversation CA

With us already one month into Q1 2022, the time for Malaysia to announce its first five digital banks is drawing near. A digital banking licence in Malaysia could provide non-bank companies the ability to conduct all banking services through platforms like an app.

For a brief explainer, digital banking essentially opens up the horizon of financial technology beyond online banking.

Think whatever you can do online now (checking your balance, financial statement, transferring funds, etc.), expanded to include opening up a new bank account online, applying for loans, and more, without having to visit a physical bank. Learn more in our introduction to digital banking here.

Out of the 29 applicants vying for the licence, only a maximum of 5 consortia will be chosen by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM).

Successful applicants that meet all criteria will be expected to contribute towards greater financial inclusion in Malaysia. This will be done by offering products and services to address market gaps in the underserved and unserved segments, including retail, along with micro, small, and medium enterprises (micro SMEs).

More specifically, BNM is looking to identify 3 types of digital banks amongst applicants:

Not forgetting that Malaysia is running on a dual banking system, those that get the licence must comply with Financial Services Act (FSA) and Islamic Financial Services Act (IFSA) regulations.

From what we can see, applicants with a local traditional bank in their consortium may not be at the forefront of getting a digital banking license. This is because incumbent banks are already permitted to provide their services online, and would not need a new licence to operate in the digital banking space.

Furthermore, those with a digital banking license in countries such as Singapore could be more favourable as a digital bank in Malaysia as well. In doing so, the consortium could leverage its user base and provide access for expansions in larger overseas markets.

Now that weve run through the criteria and set some expectations, here are the 5 consortia, arranged alphabetically, that we think have the best chance of getting a digital banking license.

Who they are: BigPay is a financial service by airasia Digital that provides users who register through its free app with a prepaid debit card that can be used wherever Visa or Mastercard are globally accepted.

The fintech app has partnered with financial services, Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF), and Ikhlas Capital, a Singapore-based private equity fund manager to apply for a digital banking license.

Their potential: MIDF is focused on providing services in the areas of investment banking, asset management, and development finance while Ikhlas Capital has over US$300 million of assets under management.

This points to a potential for the consortium to have the assets and capital to build products and services aiding underserved markets in Malaysia, including individuals and businesses.Not to mention, BigPay has recorded 1 million card users as of December 2021, pointing to a market primed for its digital banking services.

Aside from being a portfolio company of one of Malaysias three unicorns, if BigPay were to be granted a digital banking licence, itd be a homegrown success story thatll do Malaysia proud.

Potential challenges: BigPay faces the ongoing issue of numerous scammers that have marred its reputation.

Considering Malaysias digital banks are meant to serve communities with low financial literacy, becoming a digital bank puts a bigger target on BigPays back.

To combat this, BigPays team has set up marketing campaigns and warnings to educate users against such scammers. Internal safeguards such as the launch of virtual cards which can be easily deactivated and deleted have also been placed to catch and shut down scammers before they appear.

The company has reportedly seen a sharp decline in scam cases and overall complaints sent in by users, suggesting that these efforts are currently working.

Who they are: Grab needs no introduction, what with the Nasdaq listed companys super app taking over the country during the lockdowns. Meanwhile, Singtel is a Singaporean telecommunications conglomerate.

Their potential: The Grab-Singtel consortium has already secured its digital banking licence in Singapore.

Having raised US$300 million for its financial services arm Grab Financial Group, the company has the capital to grow its financial services. It also has the resources and customer data to strengthen and personalise its current offerings within GrabPay, PayLater, and insurance.

In Singapore, Grab has a financing programme that provides drivers, merchants, and enterprises greater access to financial services. If localised for the Malaysian market as well, it can benefit local gig workers along with micro SMEs, fulfilling the expectations of a digital bank as outlined by BNM.

Potential challenges: Its worth noting that BNMs digital banking licensing framework highlighted a preference where the controlling equity in the licensed digital bank is held by Malaysians.

With Grab and Singtel headquartered in Singapore, it suggests that the Malaysian investors that are part of the consortium are meant to check this box for regulatory purposes.

But its also interesting to note that Maybank has a 30% indirect stake in the company that operates GrabPay in Malaysia, so this could sway the stakes in the consortiums favour.

Grab did not confirm the other Malaysian parties that are part of this consortium. However, the company said that it aims to continue spurring economic empowerment for Malaysians through its digital bank.

Who they are: Despite an unsuccessful digital banking licence bid in Singapore, Singaporean financial services company iFAST, along with Chinas digital bank, Yillion Group, have put in their attempt for the framework in Malaysia.

THZ Alliance (THZ) is an investment firm founded by Tengku Dato Dr Hishammuddin Zaizi, who is a cousin of the Sultan of Selangor. Koperasi Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (KATM) is a cooperative organisation for Malaysian military personnel.

99 Speedmart is a convenience store brand best known for its affordable prices with 1,500 stores around the country.

If the application succeeds, the Singaporean fintech company will lead the consortium with a 40% stake, while the beneficial equity ownership of the consortium will be 57% Malaysian.

Their potential: iFAST is a wealth management fintech platform that is one of Malaysias only fully digital equity stockbroking services.

Dictionary time: Stockbroking is a service which gives retail and institutional investors the opportunity to buy and sell equities.

The fintech platform also has the means to open access to provide credit for businesses. This can help SMEs drive their growth as they overcome financing barriers related to documentation, cash flow issues, strict credit criteria, and limited use of traditional financial services.

Yillion Groups experience as a digital bank in China also poses its own benefits.Its ability to provide small-amount deposits and easy loans to individual customers in consumption scenarios such as purchasing food, clothing, housing, and transportation makes it an attractive choice to win the digital banking license.

Such loans are also given to micro SMEs and merchants that provide goods and services to common people. With this service, underserved market segments like the B40 population can have access to loans and investment opportunities.

Together with Malaysian companies like 99 Speedmart, the consortium has the reach and existing customer base from B40 populations.

Not forgetting that KATM and THZ supply governmental relations, the latters website has made a dedicated page advertising the benefits the consortium presents if chosen as a digital bank.

Who they are: The parent company of Shopee, Sea Group also has a game developer and payments company under it. Listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), it serves customers worldwide.

The Singapore-based company is bidding for a digital banking licence with Malaysian conglomerate YTL Group. Its activities span hotels, property, technology, infrastructure, and more. The groups core business has US$17.1 billion in total assets.

Their potential: Sea Group has already secured a digital banking license in Singapore. Its fintech ventures in Malaysia include ShopeePay and SPayLater, which have a wide regional user base.

In Q2 of 2021, Shopee Malaysia amassed approximately 54 million users per month, indicating its relevance and strong brand presence in the local market. Not to mention, it has large data sets of customer behaviours and trends on how Malaysians spend their money.

Securing a digital banking licence will enable Sea Group to create personalised financial solutions that will be applicable to the needs of Malaysian consumers. With a local conglomerate under the consortiums belt too, one could say this pushes them ahead of a contender like Grab.

Who they are: AEON Credit Service is a non-bank financial institution (NBFI) providing services such as the issuance of credit cards, easy payment schemes, personal financing, and insurance.

To roll out its digital banking services, it will be partnering with its parent company, AEON Financial Service which holds a 60% stake in the consortium.

Their potential: AEON as a brand is a household name in Malaysia, with AEON Credit Service having a 25-year track record operating on our shores.

With over 4 million customers, an ecosystem of 65 retail outlets, various card products, along with personal and vehicle financing, the group has its own infrastructure already built up.

Leveraging its existing resources from customers and their data, industries, talents, technology, internally-generated funds, the NBFI should face little issue developing personalised products to fulfil BNMs push for financial inclusion as a digital bank.

Sunway being a household name with activities in healthcare, property, retail, leisure, and remittance makes the Malaysian conglomerates consortium with LinkLogis and Bangkok Bank a strong contender as well.

Furthermore, it has a 51% stake in Credit Bureau Malaysia, which could play a valuable role in securing it a digital banking licence.

Ultimately though, all we can do at this point in time is share our predictions with information we already have. Only time will tell if our research-based predictions ring true, or if BNM will surprise us all with its final pick of the five digital banks.

Featured Image Credit: Anthony Tan, CEO and co-founder of Grab / Salim Dhanani, CEO and co-founder of BigPay / Forrest Li, CEO of SEA Group

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We predict these 5 consortiums will win the Msian digital banking licences, heres why - Vulcan Post