Ismailis in the News - Adil Lalani (Twitvid) has the hottest start up in Silicon Valley

Zee's Notes: I love finding young Ismailis making a name for themselves - whether it be in business, academics, sports or any endeavour where their efforts create value. One such youngster is Adil Lalani, a University of Waterloo graduate, who created  SurfYourWork- an online student information/school management system while he was in school and sold for a cool $1.25 million. Since then Adil has moved to the Start-up capital of the world - Silicon Valley - and with a friend has the hottest start-up with his company Eatlime.com - software that lets you send videos via Twitter. If you have not been paying attention in the last 12 months this message delivery system (Twitter) is being touted as the breakthrough idea in the Social Networking arena.


 Adil Lalani


Eatlime.com a video uploading and sharing service,  which has a patent-pending streaming technology is founded by  Mohammad Al Adham from Jordan and Adil Lalani from Pakistan. It’s funded by venture capital firm Draper Fisher Jurvetson and a group of angel investors, including Stanford’s Rajeev Motwani (early advisor to Google), Amidzad, former Google employees Georges Harik and Aydin Senkut, as well as XG Ventures, another group of former Googlers.

About TwitVid.com
TwitVid.com is produced by EatLime, Inc., a technology company uniquely capable of helping consumers take advantage of the convergence of social communications, mobile smart phones and video. The company was founded in 2008 by Waterloo University students Mo Adham and Adil Lalani in their dorm room. They wanted to share videos with friends, but were frustrated because other websites and services couldn’t upload fast enough and weren’t developed to ensure the highest quality experience for online social interaction. They envisioned a peer-to-peer model for fast and easy video sharing. As a result, they developed the Instant Media Engine which is the only server-based software to allow high quality media files to be viewed by recipients as soon as the uploading process begins. TwitVid.com delivers the fastest, highest quality video to be viewed on either a mobile device or any computer platform. TwitVid can be found at www.twitvid.com.

Here is Adil's story written back in 2005 while he was still at U. of Waterloo

Begum Inaara Aga Khan

Zee's Notes: Video from the Princess Inaara Foundation Youtube Channel.

Aga Khan Golden Jubilee - One year later

Zee's Notes: It was exactly one year ago MHI landed in Canada for his Darbars to be held in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver. Last Friday in all JK's across Canada we celebrated and remembered the magical week that was in November 2008. Here is another tribute of the magical year of the Golden Jubilee and what I love about this one is it showcases the Ismailis throughout the world in celebration. As well check out some of the Canadian Visit Videos - Enjoy - I really did !

His Highness Aga Khan among “The 500 Most Influential Muslims – 2009"

 Georgetown University Professors John Esposito and  Dr. Ibrahim Kalin have recently published their first edition of  “The 500 Most Influential Muslims – 2009"

The publication highlights people who are influential as Muslims, that is, people whose influence is derived from their practice of Islam or from the fact that they are Muslim. It further aims to offer valuable insight into the different ways that Muslims impact the world, and also shows the diversity of how people are living as Muslims today.

http://www.rissc.jo/muslim500v-1L.pdf

Ismailis in the News - Fez Meghani and Aftab Ali release Oh Allah Nasheed Song - from the Album From One Soul

The first Music Video for the upcoming album, "From One Soul" was released this past weekend. The song is called "Oh Allah" and it was shot on location in Cairo, Egypt, with much of the filming done at Al-Azhar Park along with Islamic and Downtown Cairo.

From Fez Meghani's website:

Fez is…

a Muslim singer, songwriter and producer, whose music focuses on conveying a message of Peace, Hope, Generosity, Kindness and Love – all of which are core values of Islam.

Born in Karachi, Pakistan, brought up in Dubai, U.A.E., Fez has resided in the United States of America since the age of 17. As a student in College, he produced and released his first album titled “Aag” in 1997. Although financed and undertaken on a considerably small budget, the project amassed humble sales of over 2,000 copies and helped Fez in obtaining experience in the music industry and defining his musical style of today.

In 2002, Fez, along with Shams Soomar, produced an album, titled “City of Light”, which sold over 5,000 copies. The feedback was extremely positive, and Fez realized that his music, with a religious message, was able to resonate with those looking for a combination of modern sounds and values of faith.

Fez also produced an album titled, “The Evolution of Creation” for Shams in 2006. This was an instrumental album that traversed a musical landscape covering Creation, revelation to the Prophets, and the quest for personal search to get closer to the Creator. The album received rave reviews on music websites such as Amazon and CD Baby.

In February of 2008, “A Golden Sunrise” was released, which has motivated Fez to go further beyond the scope of the album. When Fez started producing the album in 2005, he did not expect to see such strong positive feedback. The album was especially able to connect with the Muslim Youth, and that is perhaps what helped it in garnering sales of over 13,000 copies just in the United States of America alone.

Fez has also been featured as a lyricist for the title song on the album, “Frontierless Brotherhood”. He has also performed in many cities over the last few years including Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Seattle, Austin, Orlando, Los Angeles, Toronto and Calgary.

Inspired and encouraged by the support he has received on his last project, Fez – in conjunction with his musical partner, Aftab Ali, and his record label, PlanetUnity Records – is currently working on a new mainstream album. The album titled, “From One Soul” is expected to go on sale November 27, 2009.

Princess Zahra Aga Khan at Louis Vuitton Trophy – Nice Cote d’Azur 2009.

Princess Zahra Aga Khan cheers as Azzurra wins Louis Vuitton Trophy -  Stefano Gattini/Azzurra

Morning Chai Family - where you live.

Zee's Notes: Every now and then I like to share with you a look at where all the visitors to Morning Chai come from and recently I added this feature - CLUSTRMAPS - which gives a visual of the cities and countries where Morning Chai visitors connect. So click on the map at the upper right hand and you will be taken to the map and listing...

So a huge thanks for being here...

Hunza Valley - Ismaili Shangri-La ?

Zee's Notes: The Gilgit-Baltistan area in Northern Pakistan has for centuries been of great geo-political interest and it also is home to the Hunza Valley. Straddling the borders of China, India and Afghanistan it is home to thousands of Ismailis and the serene land has been said to be the setting for the mythical kingdom of Shangri-La. Here's an interesting article on the current political landscape and the role of the people living there.

Read complete article here

Shangri-La is a fictional place described in the 1933 novel Lost Horizon by British author James Hilton. In the book, "Shangri-La" is a mystical, harmonious valley, gently guided from a lamasery, enclosed in the western end of the Kunlun Mountains. Shangri-La has become synonymous with any earthly paradise but particularly a mythical Himalayan utopia — a permanently happy land, isolated from the outside world. In the novel Lost Horizon, the people who live at Shangri-La are almost immortal, living years beyond the normal lifespan and only very slowly aging in appearance. The word also evokes the imagery of exoticism of the Orient. In the ancient Tibetan scriptures, existence of 7 such places are mentioned as Nghe-Beyul Khimpalung. One of such places is mentioned to be situated somewhere in the Makalu-Barun region.

A popularly believed inspiration for Hilton's Shangri-La is the Hunza Valley in northern Pakistan, close to the Tibetan border, which Hilton visited a few years before Lost Horizon was published. Being an isolated green valley surrounded by mountains, enclosed on the western end of the Himalayas, it closely matches the description in the novel.

Reference : Wikipedia

AKDN in the News - Afghan Enclave Seen as Model for Development - New York Times

Five years ago, The Aga Khan Development Network spent more than a year trying to persuade a mullah to allow a girls' school. Today, the village of Fargamanch has a girls' high school.

Photo: Holly Pickett for The New York Times

JURM, Afghanistan — Small grants given directly to villagers have brought about modest but important changes in this corner of Afghanistan, offering a model in a country where official corruption and a Taliban insurgency have frustrated many large-scale development efforts.

Read complete article here 

Watch Slide Slow here

Kings of the World and their Royal Residences

Zee's Notes: While this one caught my eye as it had MHI listed (though the story does say the Aga Khan Palace in Pune, India was donated by the Aga Khan to the Indian Government) what struck me was some of the opulent palaces of Royalty.

http://tungblog.atikomtrirat.com/2009/10/kings-of-world-and-their-royal.html

Forbes Magazine back in June 2009 also ran a list of the Worlds Richest Royals if you want to see:

http://www.forbes.com/2009/06/17/monarchs-wealth-scandal-business-billionaires-richest-royals.html

Interesting article - Travel Blackboard

Zee's Notes: Sometimes when surfing the net one comes across interesting articles or stories which we can relate to and this is one of them - and it goes back 50 plus years  - if you find it interesting let me know and if you don't find it interesting let me know.

 Eden au Lac

http://www.etravelblackboardasia.com/article.asp?id=65378&nav=124

Ismailis in the News - Amin Virani - Success Coach

Zee's Notes: Amir Virani is a Success Coach - his message is to follow what you love and the money will follow - I like that message  - he was recently in Toronto - see the who what and why of Amir at the link below and watch the video.

http://www.knowledgehubonline.com/

With Masters Degree from London University in Education and Human Resource Optimization, Amin Virani has traveled across the world for his workshops, seminars and speaking engagements. More than 10000 people have benefited from his programs and written testimonials are received from hundreds of individuals and multinational companies. He has also volunteered extensively for Aga Khan Development Network, reaching out to the people from all walks of life.

Ismailis in the News - USA's Rahim Fazal -iMedia 25: Internet Marketing Leaders and Innovators

iMedia 25: Rahim Fazal

iMedia 25 Home

Rahim Fazal

• CEO and Co-Founder
• Involver

Rahim Fazal is the CEO and co-founder of Involver, an award-winning marketing and analytics platform for social networks. Involver powers branded communities for more than 2,000 organizations, including Us Weekly, Newsweek, Ford Models, and other leading brands and media companies.

Rahim is a top-notch entrepreneur with an unrivaled understanding of the digital marketing scene. His listening skills are particularly striking -- I know few people who are as good at listening, clarifying, and then offering a helpful response or solution."

• Ben Casnocha
• Author of "My Start-Up Life"

During high school, Fazal co-founded a web hosting company and negotiated its sale for $1.5 million --while taking his senior year final exams. He then started a web services platform business and eventually took it public, becoming one of the youngest directors ever of a publicly-traded company in the U.S.
Fazal completed his MBA at the Richard Ivey School of Business, the top-ranked business school in Canada. In recognition of his prior achievements, he was the youngest student in the school's 80-year history to be accepted without a prerequisite undergraduate degree.
He is a frequent and popular speaker to high school and college students across the U.S. and Canada. He is also an advisor to the Extreme Entrepreneurship Education Corporation in New York City.
In September 2008, Fazal was named one of America's "Top 30 Entrepreneurs Under 30" by Inc. Magazine.

You can follow him on Twitter at @rahimthedream.

Aga Khan Museum - Toronto 2013

Zee's Notes: View the podcast on this remarkable collection of Islamic Art collected by MHI and his family over the last 2 decades. Go to the AKDN link http://www.akdn.org/podcasts.asp?id=878  and click on:

 

 Aga Khan Trust for Culture

 



The Aga Khan Museum, which will open in Toronto, Canada in 2013, will house collections of approximately 1000 items of Islamic art collected by His Highness the Aga Khan and members of his family over the last two decades.

Meet the new Chief Executive Officer of AKF USA - Nov. 2009

The leaves are changing and so are the faces around the office at Aga Khan Foundation U.S.A. This month, we welcome our new Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mirza Jahani (pictured above on right), who brings with him fresh ideas and energy to strengthen the growing U.S. branch led by Iqbal Noor Ali (pictured above on left) for the past 25 years.  Dr. Tom Kessinger, General Manager of Aga Khan Foundation, based in Geneva, is pictured above in center.

Read his complete Bio

Ismailis in the News - MG Vassanji awarded Governor General Award for non-fiction

Zee's Notes: Moyez Vassanji continues to rack up the awards and his 15 minutes of fame is getting to be 'hours' - but kidding aside MG Vassanji deserves all the accolades - if you read his books you know what I mean. Hey I actually read his books from cover to cover and here is my take on what I thought about his latest award winning masterpiece.

http://morningchai.blogspot.com/2009/03/mg-vassanji-place-within-rediscovering.html

M.G.Vassanji, from Toronto, accepts the Governor General's Literary Award for Non-Fiction for his book "A Place Within:Rediscovering India," at a ceremony Tuesday, November 17, 2009 in Montreal. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz The Canadian Press

Acclaimed fiction writer MG Vassanji wins GG for non-fiction debut

The Canadian Press - ‎Nov 17, 2009‎

MONTREAL — MG Vassanji's fiction has been heaped with critical acclaim, but it was his non-fiction debut that grabbed the spotlight Tuesday as the Toronto ...

 

MG Vassanji wins canadianimmigrant.ca 

 

Pullinger and Vassanji take GG awards Globe and Mail 

Ismailis in the News - UBC's Dr. Nazira Chatur

A Catalyst for Change

Dr Nazira Chatur has been credited with raising the reputation of UBC's Department of Gastroenterology amongst residents and medical students.

Read how she did it here.

Ismailis in the News - Alberta's Raeesa Merali lands Broadcasting Scholarship

 
Raeesa Merali receives her scholarship cheque from Paul Mason, GM of the Jim
Pattison Broadcast Group’s Red Deer operations

Read News Release Here

Ismailis in the News - Naguib Kheraj closes GPB 2b JP Morgan buyout

Zee's Notes: Morning Chai first caught Naguib Kheraj when the Queens Banker, as he was called, took the top job at JP Morgan Cazenove in October 2008. This week it was announced that Wall St. bank JP Morgan was buying out the balance of the European Investment bank which Naguib is the CEO for GBP 2b giving many of the executives a windfall on their shares and speculation has Naguib being handed a key role at JP Morgan.

Cazenove eyes Europe after £2bn buy-out deal

Naguib Kheraj has successfully landed the £2bn JP Morgan Cazenove deal. Five years in the making, the agreement concludes the US bank's buy-out of the Queen's stockbroker and recasts Cazenove's blue-blooded bankers as multi-millionaires. 

Read complete story here

MHI in US - November 2009

President Mahmoud Eboo and Vice-President Dr Barkat Fazal of the Ismaili Council for the United States, and President Shaheen Kassim Lakha of the Ismaili Council for the Western United States, bid farewell to Mawlana Hazar Imam as he departs Sacramento. Photo: Zahur Ramji

Read complete story at Ismaili.org

Ismailis in the News - Lawyer Jameel Jaffer

Zee's Notes: Jameel Jaffer, 39, was born in London, Ontario, before graduating from Williams College, Cambridge University, and Harvard Law School and serving as a law clerk to Hon. Amalya L. Kearse, United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, and the Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of Canada.

He was co-lead counsel for ACLU v. Department of Defense, which released thousands of documents about prisoner abuse in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantánamo Bay.




One of the key figures behind the cascade of documents detailing torture and abuse within America's global "war on terror" happens to be a Canadian-born graduate of Toronto's Upper Canada College.

Jameel Jaffer, an American Civil Liberties Union lawyer born in London, Ont., was instrumental in filing and fighting an unlikely Freedom of Information Act request that eventually unearthed thousands of pages of secret documents which illustrated damning evidence of U.S. government complicity in violations of international humanitarian law.

Read complete article here

Ismailis in the News - Shailaz Dhalla - Top 40 Under 40 - Calgary

After graduating from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Laws in 2006, Shailaz Dhalla articled and practiced with Fraser Milner Casgrain. And just a year and four months after being called to the bar, she accepted a position as counsel with the Alberta Utilities Commission, a significant move considering the role the AUC plays in regulating investor-owned electric, gas and water utilities, as well as some municipal electric utilities.
As counsel, Dhalla represents the AUC at hearings where the tenuous balance between industry and the hearts, minds and wallets of all Albertans is at stake. Her skill at negotiation and understanding complex issues serves her well when the law books get put away and she indulges her other passion: helping her community.
Outside of work, Dhalla contributes as many as 30-plus hours per week to her community. She has recently been named a board member to the Ismaili Regional Muslim Conciliation and Arbitration Board for the Prairies, which mediates family and commercial disputes. In addition to that, she also contributes to literacy and mentorship initiatives through the University of Calgary and the Calgary Bridge Foundation, all with a view to providing support for immigrants. She is also a member of the Ismaili Muslim Volunteer Corps.
Dhalla says her remarkable schedule, commitment to giving back to the community and her ability to achieve balance is proof the sum of her life is greater for the parts that have made it.
“The two things that have enabled me to succeed personally and professionally are my family and the Ismaili Muslim community, of which I am a part,” she says. “Through its philanthropic endeavours and commitment to pluralism, my community inspires me to direct my energy and capacity to those most in need.
“Both of these elements serve to ground me; they also provide the motivation for me to continue to seek greater growth and success despite any challenges along the way.”
Dhalla is quick to point out volunteering is not a one-way street, and she gains as much out of the exchange as does those she aims to help.
“My involvement in the community, particularly with immigrant youth, provides me with a feeling of fulfillment,” she says.
“Interacting with these children and their families, and hearing their amazing stories of struggle and survival, engenders a deep sense of compassion within me.
“It makes me appreciative of my circumstances and compels me to share my time and knowledge with others.”
Why she’s the top: Beyond her professional success, she is a deeply committed volunteer who lives her beliefs and leads by example.
The key to her success: “My parents have always been my foundation; they have made innumerable sacrifices in order to provide me with the greatest of opportunities,” says Dhalla.

Eid in the Square 2009 - Muslims gather to celebrate in Trafalgar Square

Zee's Notes: This event is celebrated at London's Trafalgar Square and this year the Ismaili Community Ensemble participated - here is the highlight video - you can catch the Choir at the 2:31 mark though it's only a few seconds.







Ismaili Community Ensemble in collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

The Ismaili Muslim Community in the UK comes from all over the world, resulting in a truly cosmopolitan outlook in its musical and cultural expressions. The Ismaili Community Ensemble, in collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, aims to encourage, nurture and showcase musical talent in the community. Comprising of semi-professional and amateur musicians, the Ismaili Community Ensemble draws its inspiration from the rich tradition of poetry and literature in Islam to create a unique musical harmony between east and west.

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/908/Ismaili-Community-Ensemble-celebrates-Eid-in-the-Square

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan in Dallas for Alzheimer Gala

Alan Peppard: Margot Winspear, Phyllis George and Princess Yasmin Aga Kahn attend Alzheimer's benefit

12:00 AM CST on Monday, November 16, 2009

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ent/stories/DN-peppard16_1116gd.ART.State.Edition1.4b67226.html

Aga Khan in Kabul for Karzai swearing in ceremony - November 19, 2009

Zee's Notes: MHI joined world leaders such as US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Pakistan President Asif Zardari at the swearing in ceremony for Afgan President Hamid Karzai.

World Partnership Golf - Atlanta

Zee's Notes: The WPG which started in Vancouver has morphed into a North American phenomenon and the Atlanta event even had a few Atlanta Falcon professional football players. Great video by Akber Ukani of La Bella Studio.

Canadian PM's excellent day off in India

Opening Ceremony by Prince karim Aga Khan of the Ismaili Centre Dushanbe

Aga Khan in Kenya - July 2009

The Aga Khan Visits Pakistan - 13th October 2009 - Naushad Charania

Must Watch - Qawwali

Zee's Notes: Wow, this one just blew me away so if you got 5 minutes to spare - enjoy !

Ismailis in the News - Haji Manji wins Business Award

Haji Manji, with wife Jenny and son Farouq, won the Business of the Year award for 1-20 employees Wednesday at the Richmond Business Excellence Awards.

Rob Newell photo

Haji Manji and his father Abdul Manji founded Sleep Shop in 1979 in Richmond.
The company started a as specialty mattress, foam and bedroom furniture retailer. Sleep Shop now has six locations and 21 employees serving Greater Vancouver. Sleep Shop is committed to customer satisfaction and offers both a price and comfort guarantee to all their mattresses.
Haji Manji said operating a successful business is more than analyzing the bottom line.
"It is all about how you get there: your supporting cast, your front-line troops, and in my case, my wife and my son. This is what brings success."
The company’s flagship store, head office and warehouse are all located in Richmond.

Microsoft initiative helps people seek info under RTI

By Ahmedabad Mirror Bureau

Posted On Thursday, November 12, 2009 at 02:57:14 AM

Software giant Microsoft has joined hands with three Gujarat-based welfare organisations to give IT training to people who don’t have access to technology, mainly computers. The American company, through its division Microsoft Community Affairs, has tied up with Aga Khan Foundation, Mahila Sewa Trust and Saath Charitable Trust. One of the key objectives of the initiative, called ‘Project Jyoti’, is to teach people how to obtain information under the RTI Act.

Read complete article here

Vintage Video - Aga Khan III speaks to press India reforms - 1934

H. H. THE AGA KHAN

Vintage Video - Aga Khan III Golden and Platinum Jubilee

Aga Khan visits Bombay with Begum

(PREPARING TO WEIGH AGA KHAN)

AGA KHAN'S DIAMOND JUBILEE

( AGA KHAN'S PLATINUM JUBILEE )

Vintage Video - Aga Khan IV Wedding - 1969

AGA KHAN'S WEDDING

Vintage Video - Prince Aly Khan and Rita Hayworh

RITA HAYWORTH AND PRINCE ALY KHAN WED

NOW SHE'S PRINCESS RITA

RITA LEARNS HER DUTIES AS A PRINCESS

RITA AND ALY FLY TO FRANCE (aka RITA HAYWORTH AND THE PRINCE DROP IN)

RITA HAYWORTH & ALY KHAN MEET AGAIN

Vintage Video - Aga Khan III Wedding - 1929

A MODERN FAIRY TALE

Vintage Video - Prince Sadrudin Wedding

SADRUDDIN KHAN WEDS

Vintage Video - Shah Karim Aga Khan IV is enthroned

AGA KHAN IN NAIROBI

AGA KHAN ENTHRONED IN BOMBAY

AGA KHAN ENTHRONED IN KARACHI

KARACHI

Vintage Video - World Mourns Aga Khan III 1957

WORLD MOURNS AGA KHAN

THE AGA KHAN LAID TO REST (aka THE AGA KHAN'S FUNERAL)

Selected Originals - AGA KHAN LAID TO REST

Aga Khan III - A great leader and a social reformer

Monday, November 02, 2009
By By Dr Jan-e-Alam Khaki
Karachi

Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan-III (1877-1957) was a renowned nineteeth and twentieth century leader of international stature. Born in Karachi on November 2, 1877, he became a world statesman, “guide, philosopher and the friend of the world of Islam” (Qayyum, 1969).

Through his intimate knowledge of Eastern as well as Western cultures (K.K Aziz, 1998), he was uniquely placed to play a significant role in the international affairs of his time, and his long public career had many dimensions. He was a member of the Indian Imperial Legislative Council from 1902 to 1904, president of the All-India Muslim League from 1906 to 1913, and founder of the All-India Muslim Conference (1928-29).

Read complete article here 

Ismailis in the News - Calgary's Dr. Kabir Jivraj appointed to University of Calgary Presidential Search Committee

 Kabir Jivraj MBBS, FRCPC, FCCP, ICD.D

 Founding Director, Age Care Investments Ltd. Board Member

  Dr. Kabir Jivraj has been a clinical professor at the University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine since July 2001 and had taught undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Calgary since 1988. Prior to being in his present role, Dr. Jivraj was the Senior Vice-President and Chief Medical officer of the Calgary Health Region and the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Medicine.

  Dr. Jivraj served as the president of the Alberta Medical Association in 1996/1997 and received the Association's Medal of Distinguished Service in May 2000. He also servPreviewed as the Honorary Treasurer of the Canadian Medical Association. He is an active member of the Ismaili Muslim community and is the Chair of Focus Humanitarian Assistance Canada.

 He is currently a Governor on the University of Calgary, Board of Governors. As well, he has recently been appointed to the Board of Directors of the newly formed Calgary Homeless Foundation. He is also a Trustee on the Board of Northern Property REIT, a TSX listed income trust and a director of Elluminate Technologies Inc., a Calgary based private technology company.

  Dr Jivraj was recently honored in 2005 as one of the 100 Alberta's Physicians of the Century by the Alberta Medical Association and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan in New York - October 27, 2009

NEW YORK - OCTOBER 27: Actress Brooke Shields and Princess Yasmin Aga Khan attend the 2009 Alzheimer's Association Rita Hayworth Gala at The Waldorf Astoria on October 27, 2009 in New York City.

by Vanity Fair

October 28, 2009, 5:15 PM

 

Last night at the Alzheimer's Association Rita Hayworth Gala, in New York City, Brooke Shields was photographed alongside Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, the second daughter of Hollywood beauty Rita Hayworth. (The Princess gets her royal title from her father, Hayworth's third husband, Prince Aly Khan.) Started by Princess Yasmin in 1985, the galas have helped the Alzheimer's Association raise more than $250 million. Hayworth, who died in 1987, suffered from Alzheimer's in later years, and Princess Yasmin tirelessly worked to raise awareness about the disease at a time when it was little known and even less discussed.

Ismailis in the News - Food drive bridges the divide - Toronto Star

Abdulsultan Madhani and Helena Houldcroft sort food donations. (Oct. 11, 2009)

RICK MADONIK/TORONTO STAR FIL

The Sunni and Ismaili Muslims of Flemingdon Park share the same faith and pray a few blocks from each other in Thorncliffe Park.
But it took a crisis at the local food bank to bring the two branches of Islam to work together in a common cause, alongside their Christian neighbours, in the East York community.

Read complete story here

Ugandan Vice President speaks at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

Gathered at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby (L to R): His Excellency George Abola, High Commissioner for Uganda in Ottawa; Samira Alibhai, President of the Ismaili Council for British Columbia; His Excellency Professor Gilbert Bukenya, Vice President of Uganda; Malik Talib, Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Canada; and John Halani, Honorary Consul for Uganda in BC. Photo: Riyaz Lalani

On 25 October 2009, His Excellency Professor Gilbert Bukenya, Vice President of Uganda visited the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Accompanied by His Excellency George Abola, High Commissioner of Uganda in Ottawa, he sought to reach out to the Canadian Ismaili community — many of whom were born in Africa — with an invitation to invest in the future of Uganda.

Read complete story at Ismaili.org

Ismailis in the News - Calgary parkade death stuns family, co-workers

 

CALGARY - With little time to spare, Rehana Sheeraz Allidina was rushing to meet a friend at a theatre after work with free passes to the early movie. She never made it.

Read story here in the Calgary Herald

Aga Khan in Zanzibar

Aga Khan pledges more support for Zanzibar

Zanzibar President Abeid Amani Karume (right) with The Aga Khan at the official opening of the Forodhani Park in Zanzibar on Thursday. Photo/LEONARD MAGOMBA

By Costantine Sebastian in ZanzibarPosted Friday, July 31 2009 at 17:45

The Aga Khan has assured the people of Zanzibar continued support in development projects, including setting up a micro-finance scheme that will provide loans of more than Sh1 billion.

Speaking during the opening of the refurbished Forodhani Park, the Aga Khan said the initiative would offer about 1,000 loans to different segments of Zanzibaris.

Forodhani Park has been rehabilitated by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) at a cost of $3 million.

Attractive look

The facelift involved the restoration of walkways, landscape, infrastructure upgrading, incorporating lighting, and drainage and renovating the seawall facing the park.

He said that the trust was ready to undertake the second phase of the project to give the area a new attractive look.

The Aga Khan was optimistic that the site would attract visitors and more enterprises, and improve lives of the people of Stone Town.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Amani Abeid Karume said that after the successful refurbishment of the park located in the World Heritage Site, his government planned more projects. He also supported an idea by the Aga Khan to establish the Indian Ocean Marine Museum.

The Zanzibar Association of Tourism Inventors chairman, Mr Simai Mohammed, told The Nation that the refurbished Forodhani Park would add value to the tourism products that Zanzibar offers to its visitors.

At the same time, some 57 traders were trained in modern business skills. They were picked from among local businessmen, who used to trade at the old Forodhani.

The chairman of the Forodhani Traders Association, Mr Salum Mohammed, said the training would improve their incomes. The training of the businessmen, which is still going on, started in January.

Forodhani, one of the last open spaces in the Stone Town, a densely populated world heritage site, is regarded as one of the most popular places for outings.

It was once a location for the main port and landing point for the sultans of Zanzibar, but the park has over the years remained a central meeting place for leisure and entertainment. The agreement for the project was signed between President Karume and His Highness the Aga Khan.

Under the agreement, also proposed for an upgrade is an Indian Ocean Maritime Museum that will showcase culture, including displays of naval vessels, artefacts reflecting the historic, commercial and cultural contacts between Africa, Middle East and India.

Ismailis in the News - Hazara Ismailis Celebrate Imamat Day

Hazara girls presenting a traditional song on 52nd Imamat Day.

Read story here

In the News....June 2009

UK to promote ghee-free Indian food

Indian Express - Jun 23, 2009
The Department of Health has launched an online nutrition centre in partnership with the Aga Khan, head of the Ismaili Muslim community. ...

East Africa gets broadband It may make life easier and cheaper

economist.com - Jun 18, 2009
The 2nd cable fronted by the Aga Khan network will connect more East African ... SEACOM is geared towards countries where the Aga Khan has businesses which ...

Rural areas in state also feel the heat of economic meltdown
Indian Express - Jun 25, 2009
He and his two friends got the placement at CSC after completing a basic course from the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (India) Teaching Centre at Sagpara ..

Technology centres in Northern Areas

DAWN.com - Jun 16, 2009
Microsoft and the Aga Khan Foundation in Pakistan inked an agreement to establish the country's firstever pilot community technology learning centres in the ...

 

How the world is shaped by the 'clash of ignorances'

Daily Nation - Jun 15, 2009
These are issues which have engaged the Aga Khan Development Network for over two decades, including the innovative curricular planning of our schools and ...

 

Development: Looking back
DAWN.com - Jun 14, 2009
In Hunza, the Aga Khan Education Service has operated schools for over half a century; ... The various arms of the Aga Khan Development Network impacted on ..

 

2.7 Million Local-Currency Guarantee to Aga Khan Agency, First Mi

MicroCapital - Jun 12, 2009
The Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance (AKAM) was established in 2005 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Its microfinance activities is administered ...

UNBEATEN ZARKAVA RETIRED TO STUD | Sporting Life - Horse Racing …

Sportinglife.com - Jun 9, 2009
The Aga Khan said: "The quality and youth of our broodmare band is of the utmost ... "The Aga Khan Studs have produced three exceptional fillies in three ...

 

Posh Evenings And Golden Galas

Hamptons.com - Jun 7, 2009
Princess Yasmin Aga Khan and designer Nancy Corzine hosted a simply elegant cocktail reception for the co-chairs and committees of this year's Rita Hayworth ...

Prince Rahim Aga Khan visits Gorno Badakhshan...Jun 4

Grameen-Jameel Joins Hands with Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance

Zawya - Jun 3, 2009
"We are proud to collaborate with the Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance, who is renowned in the ... The Chairman of the Board is his Highness the Aga Khan. ...

 

Walkers raise $75K to fight global poverty

Waterloo Record - Jun 2, 2009
They were taking part in the World Partnership Walk, a fundraising event for the Aga Khan Foundation Canada that began in Vancouver in 1985. ...

Prince Rahim Aga Khan arrives in Tajikistan tomorrow on a three-day working visit...June 1

Aga Khan - Forbes Magazine June 2009

In Pictures: World's Richest Royals

© Press Association via AP Images Prince Karim Al Husseini, Aga Khan Fortune: $800 million (down $200 million) Age: 72 Spiritual leader of the world's Ismaili Muslims chairs the Aga Khan Development Network that promotes investments in Asia and Africa. Horse racing enthusiast owns 900 thoroughbreds at stud farms in Ireland and France; holds stake in Goffs, one of Britain's largest horse auction houses, as well as French horse auction house Arqana. Values down in belt-tightening markets. Awarded titles of Grand Patron and Grand Donor by the French Minister for Culture for his contributions to cultural development in France; also made an honorary citizen of Canada in the past year.

Aga Khan receives Honorary Doctorate Degree from Cambridge University

Aga Khan honoured

His Highness the Aga Khan, Bill Gates and other honorary degree recipients processing into Senate House for the degree ceremony. Photo/Courtesy of University of Cambridge

Posted Saturday, June 13 2009 at 19:13

CAMBRIDGE, Friday

His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, on Friday received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from the University of Cambridge’s Pembroke College.

The Aga Khan becomes the first Muslim to receive the distinction in the university’s 800-year history.

“As we celebrate our eight hundredth anniversary, it is perhaps fitting that we first honour a man who traces his ancestry to the sixth century, and to the Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him,” said Dr Rupert Thompson, classicist and Fellow of Selwyn College, in a citation read out in Latin, in keeping with the College’s tradition.

“Since becoming the fourth Aga Khan, he has worked tirelessly, through his development network, to ensure that those who are pressed by the worst poverty should enjoy a reasonable standard of health care, education and financial security. And this is not humanitarianism, as he says, but the requirement of his faith.”

The Honorary Doctorate of Divinity is awarded to individuals who have made a global impact through their religious leadership.

Earlier in the week, he received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Alberta in recognition of his efforts to improve the lives of the world’s poor and build a global culture of tolerance.

Ismailis in the News - Shariff family invests in Orleans East End

New east-end hotel breaks ground
Orleans Star - ‎May 22, 2009‎
Bob Monette and the city to push the project forward, as well as enthusiastic backing from the family's Ismaili community. “Today is an exciting opportunity ...

Ismailis in the News - 'Saffron Dreams' author Shaila Abdullah

Noted as "Word Artist" by critics, Shaila Abdullah is an award-winning author and designer based in Austin, Texas. Her creative work focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of Pakistani women and their often unconventional choices in life. Her writing also deals with the Asian experience in America, the conflict between the two worlds and the culture of her adopted country. She offers her readers a window into the multicultural world through her vibrant characters.

Abdullah was born in Karachi, Pakistan in 1971. She has a bachelors degree in English literature and a diploma in graphic design. She also has a diploma in freelance writing. She has written several short stories, articles, and personal essays for various publications, such as Maybe Quarterly, Damazine, Women's Own, She, Fashion Collection, Dallas Child, Web Guru, About Families, Sulekha, Pakistaniaat, and a magazine of the Daily Dawn newspaper called Tuesday Review, etc. She is a member of the Writers' League of Texas.



'I am an advocate of Islam's truer face'
Rediff - We're called Ismaili Muslims," she explains. "But I chose to live in the US because here I have the freedom to actually write what I want and I can use my ...

Ismailis in the News - Youth group captures Duke of Edinburgh awards

Youth group captures awards
North Shore News - ‎May 20, 2009‎
Fatehali is the leader and founder of the Lower Mainland Ismaili Youth Extreme Adventure Group, and 14 of its participants received the Duke of Edinburgh ...

Ismailis in the News - Dr Shelina Dhanji

Ajax dentist heads to Africa
Newsdurhamregion.com - ‎May 16, 2009‎
The hospital is funded through the Agha Khan Foundation, which was created by the spiritual leader of Ismailis. The foundation does international ...

Ismailis in the News - Azim Jamal and Harvey McKinnon win prestigious award

VANCOUVER AUTHORS WIN PRESTIGIOUS NAUTILUS SILVER AWARD

­­­­­­­­THE POWER OF GIVING, ONCE #1 ON AMAZON.CA, IS IN THE RUNNING FOR THE NAUTILUS GOLD AWARD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 28, 2009

British Columbian authors Azim Jamal and Harvey McKinnon are thrilled that their book, The Power of Giving, has won the prestigious Nautilus Silver Award. The Power of Giving helps readers discover the many gifts they have to offer— including tapping into their potential, being creative and innovative and finding inner happiness.

“We are very thrilled and grateful that this book has been considered for such a prestigious award and also for the recognition of the message the book conveys,” said the authors of the book, Azim Jamal and Harvey McKinnon.

The Power of Giving was released by Tarcher/Penguin in August 2008 and hit #1 on Amazon.ca. To date, it has been published in seven languages in nine countries.
The Nautilus Book Awards recognize and reward world-changing books. This is the 9th annual award. Past winners include: Deepak Chopra, M.D., Barbara Kingsolver, Frances Moore Lappe’, Thich Nnat Hanh, Eckhart Tolle, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Naomi Wolf and Paul Rogat Loeb, PhD.
An experienced team of book reviewers, librarians, authors, editors, bookstore owners, and leaders in the publishing industry carefully select the finalists and winners in a three-tiered judging process. Winning titles will be exhibited in a 2009 Nautilus Book Awards Showcase at BookExpo America held in the Jacob Javits Center in New York from May 28 - 31, 2009.
All Silver Award-winning titles will now move on to the final phase of judging. Gold Winners will be announced on http://www.nautilusbookawards.com/ on the morning of Friday, May 30th as well as at the BEA. The Nautilus Book Awards are administered by Marilyn McGuire & Associates, Inc. of Eastsound, WA, in association with Independent Publisher Online of Traverse City, MI.
All author royalties for The Power of Giving will go to Tides Canada Foundation.

Jamal and McKinnon are both sought-after speakers for their expertise in philanthropy. Jamal is a keynote speaker and management consultant who speaks worldwide with the goal of inspiring leaders, at all levels, to unleash potential and regain balance (The Corporate Sufi Way). McKinnon is one of North America’s leading fundraising experts, who also lectures globally. The Power of Giving has received acclaim from Wayne Dyer, Seth Godin, Jack Canfield and many more prominent reviewers.

For more information, please visit http://www.thepowerofgiving.org/.
For images visit: http://thepowerofgiving.org/media.aspx.

More information

Theresa Giacopasi Katie Sheehan
Tarcher-Penguin Harvey McKinnon Associates
(212) 366-2851 (604) 732-4351 ext. 100 Theresa.giacopasi@us.penguingroup.com ksheehan@harveymckinnon.com

World Partnership Walk - In the news

Thousands walk and roll at weekend fundraising events
Vancouver Sun - ‎May 31, 2009‎
By Denise Ryan, Vancouver SunMay 31, 2009 BC Premier Gordon Campbell (left) warms up with the crowd on Sunday, before the beginning of the 25th annual World ...
Ten thousand people and bright sunshine expected for Sunday's ...
Vancouver Sun - ‎May 31, 2009‎
By Mary Frances Hill, Vancouver SunMay 31, 2009 Sunny skies are predicted as some 10000 philanthropists prepare for Sunday's Aga Khan Foundation's World ...
Walkers raise $75K to fight global poverty
Waterloo Record - ‎21 hours ago‎
About 800 people laced up their shoes in Kitchener's Victoria Park and raised more than $75000 to fight global poverty. They were taking part in the World ...
Walking to combat poverty
Metro Canada - Vancouver - ‎Jun 1, 2009‎
Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson takes part in the World Partnership Walk in Stanley Park yesterday. The 25th World Partnership Walk in Stanley Park raised ...
Aga Khan's Vancouver walk raises $2 million for global poverty fight
The Province - ‎May 31, 2009‎
By Carmen Chai, The ProvinceMay 31, 2009 Sara Janmohamed 2 1/2 of West Vancouver joined thousands of walkers in the World Partnership Walk to raise funds to ...
Thousands were on hand for the World Partnership Walk on Sunday at ...
24 Hours Vancouver - ‎May 31, 2009‎
By DHARM MAKWANA, 24 HOURS More than $2 million raised through Sunday's fundraising event, marking its silver anniversary, will go to the Aga Khan ...
Thousands walk in downtown Toronto to end poverty
CP24, Canada - ‎May 31, 2009‎
Thousands walk during the annual World Partnership Walk to raise money for people living in poverty in developing contries on May 31, 2009. ...

Ismailis in the News - Globe and Mail Finance Article

Globe and Mail Photo

'Sandwich generation' has a full plate
Globe and Mail - ‎May 31, 2009‎
In Ms. Mawani's Ismaili-Muslim culture, children look after their parents, and so her siblings do as much as they can to contribute. ...

Ismailis in the News - Nadir Mohamed, CEO Rogers

Nadir Mohamed, president & CEO for Rogers Communications.
Photograph by: Ward Perrin , Vancouver Sun

New CEO will boost Rogers: UBS analyst
Vancouver Sun - ‎May 30, 2009‎
By David Pett, Financial PostMarch 31, 2009 Based on trading yesterday, the jury is still out on the appointment of Nadir Mohamed as Rogers Communications ...
'Ted was Ted, what I do is different'
Financial Post - ‎May 30, 2009‎
Nadir Mohamed was both a colleague and close friend to the late Ted Rogers. Joining the company in 2000, he worked closely with Mr. Rogers, building the ...
Roger's tall challenges: New CEO takes it slow and steady
Canada.com - ‎May 30, 2009‎
By Jamie Sturgeon, Financial PostMay 30, 2009 Newly appointed Rogers CEO Nadir Mohamed speaks to Post reporter Jamie Sturgeon at the Rogers Communications ...
The man who now rules Mr. Rogers' neighbourhood
Toronto Star - ‎May 30, 2009‎
Rogers Communications Inc. chief executive Nadir Mohamed, 53, is the first to admit he isn't Ted Part 2. In fact, they're a study in contrasts. ...
Rogers CEO says there's only room for one more national wireless ...
The Canadian Press - ‎May 29, 2009‎
TORONTO — Rogers Communications' (TSX:RCI.B) newly appointed chief executive Nadir Mohamed is preparing for what is expected to be a dramatic battle over ...
Rogers spends to get with the programs
Globe and Mail - ‎May 31, 2009‎
Canada's major television networks will unveil their new fall prime-time lineups this week, hoping to attract an influx of ad dollars with the promise of ...
Rogers' CEO facing an industry sea change, unfazed
Globe and Mail - ‎May 29, 2009‎
TORONTO, ONT- 29/05/09 - Nadir Mohamed is the new CEO of Rogers. This is our first one-on-one with him since he took the position. ...

Ismailis in the News - USF Mourns loss of Graduate

TAMPA, Fla. (May 19, 2009) The University of South Florida is mourning the loss of recent graduate Aly Zain Lakdawala, 21. The United States Embassy in Costa Rica confirmed that his body was found one nautical mile offshore near where he was swimming with other USF students in the Pacific Ocean near Matapalo. Lakdawala graduated from USF on May 1 with dual majors in International Studies and Philosophy, and was well known at USF for his involvement in community service. Since May 8, 14 USF students have been working with the organization "International Volunteer HQ" in rural Costa Rica. The trip was part of a community service trip of USF's alternative spring break program. Lakdawala went missing when a heavy current caught some of the group swimming during a lunch break midday Saturday May 16. Costa Rican coast guard, police, lifeguards and Red Cross have been searching for him. USF staff and the director of the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement were with the group during the entire trip. Maria Crummett, Dean of International Affairs, and other staff flew to Costa Rica to assist his father in rescue efforts. Media inquiries, please contact Lara Wade, News Director, lwade@admin.usf.edu, office phone 813-974-9060, cell phone 813-833-1498.

Ismailis in the News - India's Salim and Sulaiman Merchant nominated for Emmy

Salim and Sulaiman are Hindi music directors and singers in India. The duo consists of two brothers, Salim Merchant and Sulaiman Merchant. Salim and Sulaiman have been composing music for over a decade having scored for movies such as Chak De India, Bhoot, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Matrubhoomi and Fashion. The duo has also composed for several Indi-pop performers including Viva, Asmaan, Shweta Shetty, Jasmine and Style Bhai among others, composed and produced several TV commercials and collaborated with a artistes such as Ustad Zakir Hussain and Ustad Sultan Khan. They got their first break when Karan Johar asked them to compose the music for his movie, Kaal. After that, they have gone to do movies with well-known producers and directors like Yash Chopra, Subhash Ghai and Ram Gopal Varma. Before composing music, they were composing the background scores for movies. They are famous for their background scores in horror flicks.

http://www.salimsulaiman.com/


Salim-Sulaiman nominated for Emmy
Times of India - ‎May 21, 2009‎
Here's news of another case of Indian music going global. Our very own hit-making duo of Salim and Sulaiman Merchant has been nominated for a prestigious ...
Salim-Sulaiman bag Emmy Awards nomination
Oneindia - ‎May 19, 2009‎
After AR Rahman did the nation proud by bagging two Oscars for his Slumdog Millionaire score, it's now the turn of ace music composer duo Salim-Sulaiman to ...
Salim Sulaiman go global now!
India-Forums.com - ‎May 22, 2009‎
2009 seems to be the for the Indian music industry. After AR Rahman winning various awards all around the globe, it's time ... 2009 seems to be the for the ...
Salim-Sulaiman Nominated for Daytime Emmy!
Bollywood Spice - ‎May 19, 2009‎
By Stacey Yount - BollySpice.com Salim-Sulaiman are known in Bollywood for their outstanding musical scores and soundtracks and now they are garnering ...

Aga Khan Gift to Burnaby Mayor

This photo is of a decorative clock which was a gift from His Highness, The Aga Khan to Mayor Derek Corrigan to commemorate the Golden Jubilee celebration and the Aga Khan's visit to City Hall on November 25th, 2008. The clock will be on display in the glass display cabinets located in the outer hallway of the Mayor's Office.

His Highness the Aga Khan in Berlin

Photo credit: AKDN/Hinrik Schmoock

Berlin, Germany, 15 May 2009 - His Highness the Aga Khan arrived in Berlin yesterday for a two-day official visit to hold talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel, Vice-Chancellor and Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and Development Minister Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul.

http://www.akdn.org/press_release.asp?ID=752

Focus Summer 2009 Hike4Life

Bishkek

WHAT: FOCUS Summer 2009 Hike4Life in Kyrgyzstan
WHEN: July 30 – August 9, 2009
WHY SHOULD YOU PARTICIPATE? This is an incredible opportunity to challenge yourself, to meet people from other parts of the world, and to build lifelong friendships, while raising vital funds for Focus Humanitarian Assistance. Your participation will assist FOCUS in enabling disaster resilient communities.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 31, 2009 or when all places are filled, whichever is earlier.
APPLICATION AND EVENT INFO: Available at http://www.focuschallenge.org/.
QUESTIONS: Can be referred to info@focuschallenge.org.



Tentative Itinerary: July 30 - August 9, 2009 (with approximate hike durations and distances)