Latest news with #DTM
Irish Independent
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Tralee man James bags himself Toastmasters International's highest award
'The DTM award signifies James has demonstrated outstanding service and accomplishment in leadership and communication skills and has used these skills to help others in their self development efforts.' noted Toastmasters International Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex in the official citation of this award. James completed two separate education programs in Motivational Strategies and Leadership Development as well as fulfilled important leadership roles at local, regional and across the UK and Ireland. During this time he also received two District 71 (UK and Ireland) personal awards for Vice President Public Relations of the Year in 2021 and 'Above and Beyond' for distinguished services to the District in 2024. James is well known locally for his commitment to volunteering at numerous Festivals, charitable fundraising, artistic performances and local promotional events which was recognised by a Tralee Municipal District and Kerry County Council Civic Award last year. He, together with fellow Curator Bryan Carr, are currently working towards their fourth TEDxTralee Conference to be held in Siamsa Tire, Tralee on Saturday October 18 2025. These talks, promoting Tralee and its partners, have now been watched by a worldwide online audience of well over three and a quarter million views at 'I have always seen my Toastmaster Education, my voluntary activities and professional experiences to be mutually beneficial and complimentary. Nothing of importance is ever achieved in isolation, and I am fortunate beyond words to be supported by family, friends and colleagues in all aspects of my various interests and activities' said James To celebrate his DTM, James is doing a fundraising abseil 140 feet down Croke Park on Friday June 27 in aid of Debra Ireland – the Butterfly Skin charity, for whom he has raised awareness and much needed funds for the past number of years. Donations can be made on James Facebook Page or at the link here: 'I wanted to mark this award with a bang, albeit a controlled one. I can think of no more worthwhile cause than Debra Ireland, who help those affected by EB, their families and also support research into causes and potential treatments. All donations are gratefully received,' said James.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Adapting to Hypercar from Formula E is 'so easy' for Pascal Wehrlein – here's why
One of the most high-profile rookies at this year's Le Mans 24 Hours, Porsche Penske Motorsport's Pascal Wehrlein feels adequately prepared for the demanding French classic. The former Formula 1 driver, DTM champion and reigning Formula E world champion took sixth on his endurance racing debut at the Daytona 24 Hours alongside Bryce Aron, Gianmaria Bruni and Tijmen van der Helm, then ninth at the Spa-Francorchamps 6 Hours with Kevin Estre and Laurens Vanthoor. Advertisement Wehrlein is now coming into Le Mans with a third set of team-mates, sharing the #4 Porsche 963 with Felipe Nasr and Nick Tandy. Following the test day, he feels confident in his ability to be quick, regardless of the Porsche LMDh prototype being extremely different to the Formula E machinery he drives most of the time – because it's too different for the comparison to be relevant in any way. 'Obviously I've driven many categories in my career so far, so in general I have a very good understanding of what a car needs to be quick,' the German explained. 'I've driven DTM, which is a prototype touring car; I've driven Formula 1, which has a lot of downforce; Formula E, and now LMDh. I would say I have quite a big toolbox of driving styles – and adapting quickly to it, I know what it takes. 'I feel like, also, the transition from Formula E to this car is so easy, because actually you don't have a wrong reference. The cars behave so differently that I don't compare it to Formula E, I don't take anything from that car, jump into this car and think, 'yeah but here it felt like that'. It's completely different cars. 'I would assume, for example, if I put myself 10 years back, and sat in a DTM car and then drove this car, there would be a lot more going on in my head: 'Yeah, but my DTM car is a bit like that, and now I'm in this'. It's so different. There's nothing to compare. It makes the transition quite smooth.' Pascal Wehrlein, TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team Pascal Wehrlein, TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team Team-mates Nasr and Tandy are competing at Le Mans for the sixth and 13th time respectively, with the Briton having won the race overall in 2015, which represents a wealth of experience for Wehrlein to lean on. Advertisement Asked by what advice his partners have given him, Wehrlein said: 'So much. I think it would exceed your report! 'They've been so supportive. Felipe and Nick, the whole team – even Laurens, Kevin in Spa, my other team-mates. 'I've been asking a lot of questions, just because I know there are a lot of rookie mistakes and errors you can do, and I just want to jump that step. I want to be as well prepared as I can. 'A lot of it is actually procedures – rules, regulations, slow zones, all this stuff. A penalty here can be so costly. 'Timo [Bernhard] has been very supportive, giving a lot of advice on traffic management – how to place your car, where to place it. Advertisement 'Jumping into the car, being on pace, on speed, that is not the thing. It's more about procedures, about how to be fast through the traffic and avoid losing a lot of time there. 'If you approach a corner and you see it's going to be tight to pass this LMP2 car or GT3 car, is it worth to push flat out and pass him, or will I not make it anyway, so it's better to save energy and save fuel? Just that – a bit of a different mentality.' Read Also: Ferrari 'clearly faster' than Toyota at Le Mans - Sebastien Buemi To read more articles visit our website.
Miami Herald
11-06-2025
- Miami Herald
Gang violence in Haiti has displaced nearly 1.3 million people. It's a new record
The number of Haitians forced to flee their homes by terrorizing armed gangs has now hit nearly 1.3 million, the United Nations International Organization for Migration said Wednesday. The surge is the highest number of people ever displaced by violence in Haiti, and represents a 24% increase since December, according to a recently published Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) report by IOM. Metropolitan Port-au-Prince remains the epicenter of the violence with residents of the Grand Ravine neighborhood on Tuesday joining the ranks of those forced to flee after gunfire erupted. But the latest numbers also show that the gang violence is spreading to other regions of Haiti and inching close to the 1.5 million left homeless by Haiti's devastating 2010 earthquake. In the North where fresh attacks in the Central Plateau have forced the closure of the country's modern University Hospital of Mirebalais in April and sent a municipal market up in flames this week, the number of people forced from their homes has grown by nearly 80%, IOM said. 'Behind these numbers are so many individual people whose suffering is immeasurable; children, mothers, the elderly, many of them forced to flee their homes multiple times, often with nothing and now living in conditions that are neither safe nor sustainable,' Amy Pope, IOM's director general, said in a statement. 'We need to act urgently. The strength of the Haitian people is humbling, but resilience cannot be their only refuge. This crisis cannot become the new normal.' READ MORE: As crisis in Haiti worsens, UN council calls meeting to push for international support The violence is disrupting all facets of Haitian life as businesses go up in flames, neighborhoods get overtaken by criminal gangs and Haitians find themselves without access to basic healthcare, schools and drinking water as members of a powerful gang coalition, Viv Ansanm, shutter hospitals and force refugees into schools and makeshift camps after deadly attacks. 'They kill people, they burn homes, they cut off roads,' said Masillon Jean, who serves as mayor of the Kenscoff community. Jean said with the help of the population, security forces were able to recover some of the areas where armed gangs had taken over such as the center of town, where a school and courthouse have reopened. But other areas of the community, located in the hills above Pétion-Ville, continue to be in the grip of gangs, particularly the community of Furcy, where a popular hotel, The Lodge, was burned by gangs along with private homes. Last year, more than 5,600 Haitians died as a result of gang-related violence. This year, the death toll stands at more than 1,600, the U.N. has said. At the same time, the worsening violence is also deepening the humanitarian crisis as more than 5.7 million Haitians struggling to find enough to eat with some facing famine-like conditions. In the rice-growing Artibonite department, where a well-known pastor and members of his congregation were beheaded last month by a self-defense brigade, there are now more than 92,000 people displaced by violence in the community of Petite Rivière alone. In the Central Plateau, where gangs set fire to a municipal market on Sunday, attacks in towns like Mirebalais and Saut-d'Eau have more than doubled the number of people on the run in just a few months, rising from around 68,000 to over 147,000 people. The Center Department also now hosts 85 makeshift displacement sites, IOM said, the sharpest increase in such sights whose overall numbers went from 142 in December to 246. The growing crisis is not only putting an enormous strain on overstretched families, but also on aid agencies, which are facing cuts as Washington pulls back funding to international organizations including the United Nations. Last week, the regional director for the World Food Program warned that despite the country's record hunger and its vulnerability to hurricanes and other natural disasters, its food stocks are dwindling and warehouses sit empty. IOM said in the past month the agency y have assisted over 20,000 people with essential household items such as buckets and cooking utensils, distributed over 3 million liters of clean water and provided basic health services to 6,000 people. Additionally, IOM has reinforced its mental health support, reaching over 8,500 displaced people. But the needs continue to expand, the agency said, issuing an appeal to the international community to scale up support as a humanitarian appeal by the United Nations for $908.6 million for Haiti only garners $75 million so far. 'Without immediate funding and access, millions remain at risk,' the agency said. Echoing the sentiments of Canada's permanent representative to the U.N., Robert Rae, who is hosting a special discussion on Haiti in New York on Wednesday, IOM stressed that while humanitarian assistance is essential, Haiti needs sustainable solutions to address the root causes of displacement, improve access to essential services and create viable alternatives to gang violence for youth. These measures are critical to breaking the cycle of violence and restoring stability, IOM said.
MTV Lebanon
11-06-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
Haiti Sees Record Displacement as 1.3 Million Flee Violence
Nearly 1.3 million people are now internally displaced in Haiti, a 24 percent increase since December 2024, according to a recently published Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). This surge represents the highest number of people displaced by violence ever recorded in the country. 'Behind these numbers are so many individual people whose suffering is immeasurable; children, mothers, the elderly, many of them forced to flee their homes multiple times, often with nothing, and now living in conditions that are neither safe nor sustainable,' said Amy Pope, IOM Director General. 'We need to act urgently. The strength of the Haitian people is humbling, but resilience cannot be their only refuge. This crisis cannot become the new normal.' While Port-au-Prince remains the epicentre of the crisis, gang violence is spreading beyond the capital. Recent attacks in the Centre and Artibonite departments have forced tens of thousands more residents to flee, many now living in precarious conditions and makeshift shelters. Although nearly a quarter of all internally displaced people are still living in the capital, increasing numbers of people are fleeing to other parts of the country in search of safety. In the North, the number of people forced from their homes has grown by nearly 80 per cent. In the Artibonite department, violence in Petite Rivière alone has driven thousands more from their homes, bringing the total number of displaced people in the area to over 92,000. In the Centre department, the situation is even more alarming. Fighting in towns like Mirebalais and Saut-d'Eau has more than doubled the number of people on the move in just a few months, rising from around 68,000 to over 147,000. Many now face life without access to health care, schools, and clean water, leaving already vulnerable families struggling to survive. As more people are forced to flee, the number of spontaneous displacement sites is also rising. Since December, these sites have jumped from 142 to 246. The sharpest increase is in areas that previously had none, like the Centre department, which now hosts 85 sites. Yet around 83 per cent are sheltering with host families, placing enormous strain on already overstretched households, especially in rural communities. IOM continues to play a leading role in the humanitarian response. In the past month, the Organization assisted over 20,000 people with essential household items such as buckets and cooking utensils, distributed over 3 million litres of clean water, and provided basic health services to 6,000 people. Additionally, IOM has reinforced its mental health support, reaching over 8,500 displaced people. IOM teams are currently deployed in the Centre department to assess the multisectoral needs and prepare the response. As needs grow, IOM reiterates its call to the international community to scale up support. Without immediate funding and access, millions remain at risk. Humanitarian assistance is essential, but alone it is not enough. Sustainable solutions must address the root causes of displacement, improve access to essential services, and create viable alternatives to gang violence for youth. These measures are critical to breaking the cycle of violence and restoring stability.
Mid East Info
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
From Abu Dhabi to Amman: District 105 Toastmasters Take the Spotlight at DTAC 2025
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Toastmasters from four countries came together with members from Oman, Abu Dhabi, Jordan, and Palestine in Amman for DTAC 2025, the District 105 Annual Conference. Held under the theme 'Rise to Inspire,' the event showcased the region's dedication to empowering confident communicators and leaders, with strong representation from Abu Dhabi and other regions. The conference was led by TM Mohammed Al-Kiswani and his team in Jordan. With over 250 attendees, the two-day event brought together diverse voices to celebrate courage, connection, and growth. Members shared stories, stepped boldly into the spotlight, and transformed fear into confidence – proving once again the power of Toastmasters to uplift and inspire. Keynote Inspiration One of the featured keynote speakers was Mohammed Murad, DTM from Dubai, a previous International President of Toastmasters International. His thought-provoking session, 'Leadership: Reality or Illusion?' invited attendees to reflect on the essence of authentic leadership, leaving the audience inspired and introspective. Elevating Voices Through Speech Contests Four captivating English contests filled the conference with laughter, insight, and inspiration. The champions who rose to the occasion were: Evaluation Contest Champion – TM Agnik Bose (Oman) – TM Agnik Bose (Oman) Humorous Speech Contest Champion – TM Thomas John (Oman) – TM Thomas John (Oman) Table Topics Contest Champion – TM Krishan Kumar (Oman) – TM Krishan Kumar (Oman) International Speech Contest Champion – TM Rasiah Raslyn Agatha (Abu Dhabi) Running simultaneously, the Arabic Speech Contest showcased District 105's linguistic diversity, reinforcing Toastmasters' commitment to empowering voices in every language and ensuring regional representation across the district. The Defining Moment A deeply moving moment was the recognition of 94-year-old DTM Haifa Al Bashir, honored for 25 years of Toastmasters service. Though she arrived in a wheelchair, her energy lit up the room. With a twinkle in her eye, she declared, 'I came prepared to give a BIG speech,' and delivered one that resonated with every listener. She was joined by fellow Silver Jubilee honorees: TM Mary Shawareb, DTM Haifa Sharaiha, DTM Maisoun Armouti, and TM Raghad Keilani – all celebrated for their lifelong commitment and contributions. Leadership Recognition and Awards District Director Saiju Victor, DTM expressed heartfelt appreciation to all members, clubs, and leaders whose efforts led to District 105 achieving Distinguished District status. He also welcomed the incoming district leaders for the 2025–2026 term. The District Annual Awards honored excellence in Program Quality, Club Growth and Public Relations presented by: Program Quality Director Cyprian Misquith, DTM Club Growth Director Ramanujam Raghavan, DTM Public Relations Manager TM Maria Theresa de Mesa Mendoza Looking Ahead: DTAC 2026 Abu Dhabi The exciting announcement of DTAC 2026 to be held in Abu Dhabi, led by Chair TM Hadi Ali with Toastmasters from Abu Dhabi took the stage in a stunning display of unity. With its cultural richness and innovative spirit, DTAC 2026 promises an immersive and inspiring experience – an event the District is already looking forward to. About District 105 Toastmasters: District 105 is a part of Toastmasters International, supporting members across Oman, Abu Dhabi, Jordan and Palestine in developing public speaking and leadership skills. With the District's tagline 'Learn and Enjoy' the district offers a supportive and fun environment for personal and professional growth through the globally recognized Pathways educational program. With a strong focus on integrity, respect, service, and excellence, District 105 empowers individuals to become confident communicators and effective leaders in their communities.
