AstraZeneca achieves top rankings as Best Place to Work across North Africa and Levant in 2024

DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2025 – AstraZeneca, a leading multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, has been recognized as the second-best place to work across the Middle East for 2024 according to the annual prestigious “Best Places to Work” ranking.

The company achieved remarkable country-specific ranking in the Best Places to Work certification, including being named the Best Place to Work for Women and the Best Place to Work for Millennials in select markets.

AstraZeneca took the top spot in Iraq, Algeria, and Lebanon, while securing second place in Morocco and Tunisia. In Jordan, the company earned the third position. Last year, AstraZeneca ranked second across the Middle East, demonstrating sustained recognition of its workplace culture and reinforcing its position as an employer of choice in the region.

In a statement from Rami ScandarNear East & Maghreb Country President, he said“It brings me immense pride and gratitude to witness the remarkable achievements that AZ NEMAG consistently attains. With the recent announcement of our rankings as the best places to work, I am delighted to share that we have secured the 1st and 2nd positions in the Middle East. This outstanding accomplishment is a true testament to your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.”

Heba El Shabrawy, HR Director for AstraZeneca Near East & Maghreb commented on this achievement “Despite the numerous challenges that NEMAG has consistently faced, we continue to be amazed by the incredible talents, commitment, and passion demonstrated by our team members. The achievement of securing the first and second rankings in all our participating markets is a true testament to the remarkable strides we have made over the past year. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your hard work and perseverance.”

AstraZeneca Near East & Maghreb has consistently demonstrated its commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture, earning the prestigious Best Place to Work certification for several consecutive years. This achievement reflects the company’s dedication to creating an environment where employees feel valued, empowered, and motivated to excel.AstraZeneca Near East & Maghreb excels by prioritizing well-being, growth, and diversity.

For more information about AstraZeneca, please visit www.astrazeneca.com.

For more information about Best Places to Work certification program, visit www.bestplacestowork.org.

Zenas BioPharma to Present at the Guggenheim SMID Cap Biotech Conference

WALTHAM, Mass., Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zenas BioPharma, Inc. (“Zenas” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ZBIO), a clinical-stage global biopharmaceutical company committed to being a leader in the development and commercialization of transformative immunology-based therapies, today announced management’s fireside chat presentation at the Guggenheim SMID Cap Biotech Conference on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET.

A live webcast and archived replay of the Company’s presentation can be accessed under “Events and Presentations” in the Investor & Media Relations section of the Zenas BioPharma website.

About Zenas BioPharma, Inc.

Zenas is a clinical-stage global biopharmaceutical company committed to becoming a leader in the development and commercialization of transformative immunology-based therapies for patients in need. Our core business strategy combines our experienced leadership team with a disciplined product candidate acquisition approach to identify, acquire and develop product candidates globally that we believe can provide superior clinical benefits to patients living with autoimmune diseases. Zenas’ lead product candidate, obexelimab, is a bifunctional monoclonal antibody designed to bind both CD19 and FcγRIIb, which are broadly present across B cell lineage, to inhibit the activity of cells that are implicated in many autoimmune diseases without depleting them. We believe that obexelimab’s unique mechanism of action and self-administered, subcutaneous injection regimen may broadly and effectively address the pathogenic role of B cell lineage in chronic autoimmune disease. For more information about Zenas BioPharma, please visit www.zenasbio.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

The Zenas BioPharma word mark and logos are trademarks of Zenas BioPharma, Inc. or its affiliated companies.

Investor Contact:

Matthew Osborne

Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
[email protected]

Media Contact:
Argot Partners

[email protected]

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9348330

Vodafone Egypt secures top spot in the Best Places to Work for Women ranking list for 2024

CAIRO, EGYPT – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2025 – Vodafone Egypt has been named the #1 Best Place to Work for Women, a prestigious recognition celebrating the company’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and supportive workplace for women. This achievement underscores Vodafone Egypt’s leadership in creating a culture where diversity thrives, and female employees can excel both personally and professionally.

The Best Places to Work for Women ranking is based on a rigorous evaluation of workplace practices, policies, and initiatives designed to empower women. Vodafone Egypt’s top position is a testament to its forward-thinking programs, including mentorship opportunities, leadership development, flexible working arrangements, and initiatives aimed at addressing gender equity across all levels of the organization.

Vodafone Egypt has been at the forefront of advocating for gender equality, launching initiatives such as & not limited to:

  • Parental Leave Policies: Vodafone Egypt’s industry-leading parental leave program provides equal opportunities for both mothers and fathers, supporting families and enabling career progression.
  • Leadership Development: Targeted programs to mentor and advance women into leadership positions, ensuring representation at the highest levels.
  • Supportive Culture: A workplace environment that actively champions diversity and inclusion through employee resource groups, training, and regular engagement.

In a statement, Nagla Kinawi, Vodafone Egypt’s Human Resources Director, said: “We are deeply honored to receive this prestigious award, which stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering women and supporting their professional aspirations. This recognition underscores our dedication to advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive environment.

This accomplishment reflects our vision of cultivating a workplace that empowers women to drive change, inspire creativity, and pursue excellence daily. It directly contributes to our success and long-term sustainability. This recognition is the result of various innovative initiatives and programs designed to empower women, which have had a profound and lasting impact, significantly enhancing satisfaction levels among our female employees.”

As a leading company in Egypt, with localized efforts to promote diversity and gender equality within the communities it serves. This recognition is a milestone in the company’s broader mission to champion equality and inclusivity across all areas of its operations.

For more information about the certification and ranking process, please visit www.bestplacestoworkfor.org

Vodafone Egypt secures top spot in the Best Places to Work for Women ranking list for 2024

CAIRO, EGYPT – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2025 – Vodafone Egypt has been named the #1 Best Place to Work for Women, a prestigious recognition celebrating the company’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and supportive workplace for women. This achievement underscores Vodafone Egypt’s leadership in creating a culture where diversity thrives, and female employees can excel both personally and professionally.

The Best Places to Work for Women ranking is based on a rigorous evaluation of workplace practices, policies, and initiatives designed to empower women. Vodafone Egypt’s top position is a testament to its forward-thinking programs, including mentorship opportunities, leadership development, flexible working arrangements, and initiatives aimed at addressing gender equity across all levels of the organization.

Vodafone Egypt has been at the forefront of advocating for gender equality, launching initiatives such as & not limited to:

  • Parental Leave Policies: Vodafone Egypt’s industry-leading parental leave program provides equal opportunities for both mothers and fathers, supporting families and enabling career progression.
  • Leadership Development: Targeted programs to mentor and advance women into leadership positions, ensuring representation at the highest levels.
  • Supportive Culture: A workplace environment that actively champions diversity and inclusion through employee resource groups, training, and regular engagement.

In a statement, Nagla Kinawi, Vodafone Egypt’s Human Resources Director, said: “We are deeply honored to receive this prestigious award, which stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering women and supporting their professional aspirations. This recognition underscores our dedication to advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive environment.

This accomplishment reflects our vision of cultivating a workplace that empowers women to drive change, inspire creativity, and pursue excellence daily. It directly contributes to our success and long-term sustainability. This recognition is the result of various innovative initiatives and programs designed to empower women, which have had a profound and lasting impact, significantly enhancing satisfaction levels among our female employees.”

As a leading company in Egypt, with localized efforts to promote diversity and gender equality within the communities it serves. This recognition is a milestone in the company’s broader mission to champion equality and inclusivity across all areas of its operations.

For more information about the certification and ranking process, please visit www.bestplacestoworkfor.org

EBC Financial Group Partners with Shakti Regeneration Institute to Empower Marginalised Communities and Promote Indigenous Conservation Efforts

Sponsorship of West Bengal School and Support for Global Environmental Documentary Shines Light on EBC’s Commitment to Education and Sustainability

Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri interacting with children at Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school in India – EBC [Photo credit: Shakti Regeneration Institute]

Students from the Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school share a joyful moment with Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri, one of the founders of Shakti Regeneration Institute (SRI), during an event supported by the institute. [Photo credit: Shakti Regeneration Institute]

RANAGHAT, India, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EBC Financial Group (EBC), a leading global financial brokerage, proudly announces its latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative through a strategic partnership with the Shakti Empowerment Education Foundation, part of the Shakti Regeneration Institute (SRI). This collaboration will support the Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school in West Bengal, India, providing 50 low-income students with access to essential educational materials, uniforms, vocational sewing classes, and extracurricular activities.

This partnership forms part of EBC’s broader CSR strategy, which complements its role as a global financial brokerage, enabling access to global markets while promoting equitable education and sustainable development in communities where economic opportunities are limited.

Behind-the-scenes of an interview with David Barrett and Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri for the Amazon documentary at the University of Oxford – EBC

David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd sits down with Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri for an interview featured in the upcoming #TheRegenerationGeneration documentary, spotlighting global efforts to protect ecosystems and drive sustainable change.

EBC Financial Group has supported the University of Oxford’s What Economists Really Do (WERD) public education series through the sponsorship of two episodes: The Economics of Tax Evasion in 2023 and Macroeconomics and Climate in November 2024. These episodes explore how economics can address significant societal issues and reflect EBC’s broader mission of empowering informed decision-making—a principle that also drives its global brokerage services, enabling individuals and institutions to confidently navigate financial markets. The WERD series is independently produced by the Department of Economics, showcasing its dedication to bridging academic research and real-world challenges.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate EBC’s dedication to advancing educational access, promoting critical discourse, and addressing the interconnected challenges of socio-economic development and sustainability. Shifting focus to India, EBC’s partnership with SRI reinforces its mission to drive long-term societal change at the local level, equipping individuals with the tools to thrive and contribute to the development of their communities while promoting sustainable development at the grassroots level.

Grateful students at Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith displaying a heartfelt thank you to EBC for their support. – EBC

Students at Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith thank EBC Financial Group for sponsoring their education and vocational training, fostering opportunities for brighter futures.

In addition to this critical sponsorship, EBC’s leadership in global advocacy is reflected in its contributions to the upcoming documentary #TheRegenerationGeneration, an initiative of SRI directed by its founder, Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri. The film, which addresses the urgent need for regenerative finance and education, highlights the efforts of Nobel Prize-winners, innovators, business leaders, educators, and Indigenous leaders working together to protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities from the increasing threats of climate change. It also features interviews with David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd., and Professor Teytelboym from the Department of Economics, Oxford University. EBC’s involvement across both social projects underscores its commitment to not only supporting local communities but also driving global awareness and action toward sustainable and equitable futures.

Barrett expressed the strategic importance of this partnership: “At EBC, we recognise that the true power of education creates the foundation for transforming societies and creating pathways to lasting change. Our partnership with Shakti Regeneration Institute is more than a sponsorship—it reflects our dedication to uplifting the next generation, as we support the Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school in equipping marginalised children with the tools they need to thrive. Through our involvement in the #TheRegenerationGeneration 2025 documentary, we are amplifying the voices of Indigenous communities and supporting the preservation of their cultural and environmental heritage. Similarly, our collaboration with the University of Oxford’s Department of Economics on their WERD program underscores our dedication to enhancing global understanding of critical economic and societal issues. By investing in education at every level, we aim to create opportunities, promote equity, and address the challenges of our time. These efforts align seamlessly with our core values of integrity, responsibility, and sustainability.”

Ajay Pal-Chaudhuri, Chairman and Founder of Shakti Regeneration Institute, remarked, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with EBC Financial Group, a collaboration that embodies the convergence of corporate responsibility and global impact. Together, we embark on a transformative journey, combining our strengths in education and ecological advocacy to empower communities worldwide. With EBC’s support, we are not only empowering marginalised children through education but also raising global awareness about the critical challenges facing Indigenous communities and the plight of vulnerable ecosystems.”

Foundational Values at the Heart of EBC’s Mission
EBC’s commitment to making a meaningful difference aligns with its core values of dedication, responsibility, and integrity. By ensuring that financial resources are directed toward impactful projects, EBC exemplifies how corporate responsibility can foster real-world change, contributing to the welfare of communities and the preservation of ecosystems that sustain vulnerable populations. Operating under top-tier regulation, EBC combines its mission to equip investors with access to global markets such as currencies, indices, and commodities with impactful social investments that contribute to community welfare and sustainability.

The Ramakrishna Vedanta Vidyapith school, which will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its founding in January 2025, has been a vital institution in the betterment of local communities in West Bengal. Through its educational programs, the school empowers children and women from marginalised backgrounds, helping them to break the cycle of poverty and contribute positively to their communities. EBC’s support enhances the school’s mission, helping to ensure that these children receive not only basic education but also vocational training and community-building opportunities that will prepare them for long-term success. More information about SRI and its mission can be found at www.shaktiregeneration.org.

For more information about EBC’s causes and initiatives, please visit https://www.ebc.com/ESG.

About EBC Financial Group
Founded in the esteemed financial district of London, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is renowned for its services in financial brokerage and asset management. With offices strategically located in prominent financial centres such as London, Sydney, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, the Cayman Islands, Bangkok, Limassol, and more, EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access a wide range of global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, shares, and indices.

Recognised by multiple awards, EBC prides itself on adhering to leading levels of ethical standards and international regulation. EBC Financial Group’s subsidiaries are regulated and licensed in their local jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia’s Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

At the core of EBC Group are seasoned professionals with over 30 years of profound experience in major financial institutions, having adeptly navigated through significant economic cycles from the Plaza Accord to the 2015 Swiss franc crisis. EBC champions a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor engagement is treated with the utmost seriousness it deserves.

EBC is the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, offering specialised services in regions such as Asia, LATAM, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania. EBC is also a partner of United to Beat Malaria, a campaign of the United Nations Foundation, aiming to improve global health outcomes. Starting February 2024, EBC supports the ‘What Economists Really Do’ public engagement series by Oxford University’s Department of Economics, demystifying economics, and its application to major societal challenges to enhance public understanding and dialogue.

https://www.ebc.com/

Media Contact:
Savitha Ravindran
Global Public Relations Manager (EMEA, LATAM)
[email protected]

Chyna Elvina
Global Public Relations Manager (APAC, LATAM)
[email protected]

Douglas Chew
Global Public Relations Lead
[email protected]

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94dc67e3-5efc-46bb-9e48-0cb8ff3bce80

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7947de34-6137-46a2-b7e8-8183ecc273c4

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a45a3118-2bc7-4f3b-af6b-c721195b1fef

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9348104

CGTN: Bridging tradition and technology: 2025 CMG Spring Festival Gala enters final stage

CGTN published an article discussing why the Spring Festival Gala, or Chunwan, is a meaningful event for all Chinese, and serves as a bond that unites the shared emotions of the global Chinese community. The article also emphasizes how the 2025 Gala will seamlessly integrate traditional Chinese culture with cutting-edge technology, making it into a truly unique celebration of Chinese culture.

BEIJING, Jan. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The 2025 China Media Group (CMG) Spring Festival Gala, a cornerstone of Chinese New Year celebrations, has entered its final rehearsal phase. Known for its rich cultural significance, this annual event, or Chunwan in China, combines innovation with tradition, captivating audiences in both China and the world.

On January 22, the gala completed its fourth rehearsal, finalizing its lineup of performances and technical elements. With cutting-edge AR and VR technology, the show promises an immersive experience, blending classic acts like songs, dances, skits and crosstalk with interactive elements to engage audiences and attract a broader audience, particularly younger generations.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the gala has unveiled its official mascot, “Si Sheng Sheng,” a vibrant green snake symbolizing the Year of the Snake. Inspired by traditional Chinese culture, the design incorporates intricate details like the spiral patterns from a gilded silver “Ruyi” discovered in northwest China’s Shaanxi’s Famen Temple, representing prosperity. The mascot’s body features interwoven vines symbolizing vitality and is adorned with flowers such as begonia, magnolia and peony, crafted with exquisite filigree techniques. The thoughtful design blends heritage with artistry, encapsulating the celebratory spirit of the Spring Festival.

A fusion of tradition and modernity

Since its inception in 1983, the Spring Festival Gala has become a cultural hallmark of Chinese New Year, celebrating the nation’s heritage through performances such as operas, folk songs, dances, skits and crosstalk. This year, while maintaining these traditions, the gala will embrace modern creative expressions.

The 2025 Gala’s stage design draws inspiration from the “Ruyi” scepter, a traditional Chinese artifact symbolizing fulfilled wishes. The scepter-shaped stage connects performers with the audience, creating a harmonious setting. Elements of Spring Festival customs, including paper-cutting, shadow puppetry and Chinese knots, will be incorporated into the show’s visuals, costumes and lyrics, emphasizing cultural authenticity.

Among the standout performances is The Pillars, a song-and-dance act inspired by Beijing’s Central Axis, which was recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The performance celebrates the architectural ingenuity of ancient China, combining historical themes with stunning visual effects. Another highlight, Beauty by the Water, merges ballet and traditional Chinese dance to embody the grace and fluidity of water, set to the melody of the song At the Waterside.

In recent years, the Spring Festival Gala has embraced technological advancements to rejuvenate traditional art forms. The 2025 Gala will further this trend: Traditional art forms, such as Peking Opera and Henan Opera, will be enhanced with modern stage effects and multimedia; digital interactivity and holographic projections will transform folk dances and songs into multi-dimensional experiences. The integration of technology and culture not only breathes new life into traditional art, but also deepens the audience’s connection with China’s cultural heritage.

An emotional connection of Chinese

For millions of Chinese families, the Spring Festival Gala is more than a television event — it is a cherished New Year tradition. Watching the gala together symbolizes unity, warmth and the joy of reunion. The emotional connection transcends physical boundaries, linking families across the globe.

In addition to celebrating familial bonds, the gala reflects societal changes and issues through its humorous skits and crosstalk, sparking both laughter and reflection. The 2025 Gala will continue this tradition, offering insight into contemporary social themes while embodying the spirit of the times.

The gala also showcases China’s cultural diversity, highlighting regional traditions and art forms that foster a shared sense of pride and belonging. Through its blend of festive cheer, cultural celebration and innovative artistry, the Spring Festival Gala remains an enduring symbol of Chinese unity and cultural identity.

This year’s event promises to be both a vibrant celebration of the past and an exciting glimpse into the future, reinforcing the gala’s role as a bridge between tradition and modernity, and as a heartfelt connection among Chinese people worldwide.

For more information, please click:
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-25/2025-CMG-Spring-Festival-Gala-Blending-tradition-with-technology-1ArId23PnKE/p.html

Contact: [email protected]

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9347550