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Business News Wales
3 hours ago
- Business
- Business News Wales
Celebrating Pride Cymru: A Commitment to Inclusivity and Positive Change
I'm looking forward to joining my colleagues at the Development Bank of Wales in celebrating Pride Cymru in Cardiff this weekend. Events like Pride Cymru hold real significance, standing as a beacon of visibility, unity, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. They remind us that equality is not a passive ideal but something that must be continuously nurtured and defended. Whether through the efforts of campaigning individuals or the support of public institutions and large employers, Pride embodies the power of solidarity and progress. Throughout my time at the Development Bank of Wales, since starting with Finance Wales in 2002, I have been incredibly proud of how we embrace equality, diversity, and inclusivity. These values are not just words in a strategy document but are actively embedded in everything we do, shaping our workplace, our partnerships, and the communities that we serve. From the support we provide to our employees and colleagues to the entrepreneurs and business owners that we fund, we champion fairness, accountability, and transparency. The Development Bank is more than just a financial institution—we are a force for positive change, using our influence to foster an environment where everyone can thrive. Our commitment to ethics and social responsibility drives us to be purposefully engaged in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. It's not just about business; it's about doing what's right. This commitment is clearly reflected in our recruitment strategies. In 2024/25, one-fifth of all our new starters came from ethnic minority backgrounds—well above the national average of six per cent. It's this kind of intentional inclusivity that matters, not just for our workforce but for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies. When organisations take active steps to build diverse workplaces, they send a powerful message: You are seen, valued, and supported. We also recognise that true inclusion goes beyond hiring; it's about continuous growth and development. That's why we prioritise personal and professional growth. Being named one of the UK's Best Workplaces for 2025 by Great Place to Work was a proud moment for us, as was receiving their Development Award—a recognition of our commitment to helping employees become the best version of themselves. One shining example of how we support diversity in business is Freya Curtis, a determined 21-year-old entrepreneur who opened Merthyr Tydfil's first LGBTQ+ themed bar, Sparkles, with the help of a £35,000 loan from the Development Bank. Sparkles, which hosts live shows, karaoke nights, and drag performances, has quickly become a popular space for the local community—providing not only entertainment but also a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Through her vision, Freya has created a hub of celebration and connection while generating local jobs, demonstrating how empowered entrepreneurs can make a real difference. The Development Bank of Wales is more than just a workplace; it's a place where people, businesses, and communities flourish. As we come together for Pride Cymru, I'm reminded that progress is never a solo journey—it's a collective effort. By celebrating diversity, amplifying voices, and standing up for what's right, we move forward, together. I am proud to be part of that journey. You can find out more about the Development Bank at
The Herald Scotland
9 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Scottish Impact Awards highlight where purpose meets progress
We are proud to officially launch the Scottish Impact Awards 2025, a new national celebration of organisations who are leading with purpose, values, and vision. This is not just another awards programme. It is a platform for recognising those who are embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their culture, strategy, and communities and delivering tangible results. A New Kind of Recognition Developed by GenAnalytics, The Herald, and Newsquest Events, the Scottish Impact Awards build on a decade-long partnership celebrating diversity and inclusion in Scotland. In 2025, this effort evolves to reflect the broader, interconnected challenges we face, spotlighting organisations that are not only talking about change, but making it happen. These awards recognise the best of Scottish leadership across six categories that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the '5Ps' framework: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. Jane Gotts, Director, GenAnalytics (Image: Colin Mearns) The Categories Climate Action Champion - sponsored by Scottish National Investment Bank – Leading the charge on emissions reduction, sustainability, and ethical sourcing Diversity & Inclusion Leadership - sponsored by Diageo – Championing equality, inclusive cultures, and equitable access Community Impact – Creating meaningful change in local communities through collaboration and regeneration Wellbeing & Workforce – Putting people first through mental health support, fair work, and ethical labour practices Sustainable Innovation - sponsored by Aegon – Driving the circular economy with forward-thinking solutions Governance & Transparency – Demonstrating accountability, ethical governance, and ESG performance Each award will be presented across three organisational sizes: micro, small/medium, and large which will ensure fair and inclusive recognition. Why Now? In 2025, the call for stronger, values-led leadership is louder than ever. Against the backdrop of climate change, global economic uncertainty, and rapidly shifting political dynamics, organisations are being asked to step up not just to grow profits, but to create positive, lasting impact. The Scottish Impact Awards exist to spotlight those who are doing just that. By bridging inclusion and sustainability, these awards raise awareness, drive accountability, and inspire others to act. Purpose is no longer just a buzzword, it is a business imperative. Fair and Transparent Selection Process An independent panel of Judges has been assembled from across a range of ESG disciplines, including Dr Martin Valenti, Director of Investment and Sustainable Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise; Mariam Ahmed, CEO, Amina MWRC and EHRC Scotland Committee; Laura Young, an award winning climate activist, environmental scientist, and ethical influencer known as LessWasteLaura; and Fran van Dijk, CEO, One Stone Advisors, Scotland's first B-Corp. Forming part of the awards' development steering committee before joining the judging panel, Fran said, 'The Scottish Impact Awards are Scotland's first ESG Awards and provide a unique opportunity for companies and organisations, of all sizes, to showcase best practice, good governance and sustainability commitment. As a long-time advocate of B Corp principles and sustainability impact measures, I am pleased to be part of the expert judging panel that will recognise the unique and distinctive work underway in Scotland across all sectors and regions of the country' All entrants will find clear entry criteria and desired KPIs to really showcase the impact they are making, which will be assesed by our credible panel of experts. Join Us Entries are now open through to Friday, July 25, 2025 and judging takes place in August. The awards ceremony will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at Radisson Blue Hotel, Glasgow. For organisations committed to making a difference, in their workplace, in their community, and across society, this is your moment to shine! To find out more, and submit your entry, visit:
Indian Express
11 hours ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
‘You can worry about this later': Trump rejects Putin's offer to broker Israel-Iran ceasefire, asks him to mediate his own first
Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, US President Donald Trump said he rejected his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin's offer to mediate a ceasefire between the two longstanding foes in the Middle East, telling him to focus on brokering his own peace deal with Ukraine first. 'I spoke to Putin yesterday and he actually offered to help mediate,' Trump told reporters on Wednesday (June 18). 'I said, 'Do me a favour, mediate your own. Let's mediate Russia first.' I said, 'Vladimir, let's mediate Russia first. You can worry about this later,' he added. Trump's remarks come after Putin, during his meeting with senior news leaders of international news agencies in St. Petersburg, said that Russia had shared proposals with Israel, Iran and the United States to de-escalate the situation in the West Asia region. 'We are not imposing anything on anyone; we are simply talking about how we see a possible way out of the situation,' he said. 'But the decision, of course, is up to the political leadership of all these countries, primarily Iran and Israel.' He then affirmed that even though the situation is complex, a solution to the conflict is possible 'It's a delicate issue,' the Russian president said. 'In my view, a solution could be found.' Trump and Putin held a telephonic conversation on Saturday where the two leaders discussed the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran and also spoke about Russia's military campaign in Ukraine. Trump, in a post on his Truth Social handle, said that he and his Russian counterpart spoke about Israel's ballistic attacks on Tehran and Iran's retaliatory missile salvos, while also highlighting that he pressed the Russian president to end the war in Ukraine. 'President Putin called this morning to very nicely wish me a Happy Birthday, but to more importantly, talk about Iran, a country he knows very well,' Trump wrote. 'We talked at length. Much less time was spent talking about Russia/Ukraine, but that will be for next week. He is doing the planned prisoner swaps — large numbers of prisoners are being exchanged, immediately, from both sides,' he said. 'The call lasted approximately 1 hour. He feels, as do I, this war in Israel-Iran should end, to which I explained, his war should also end.'
Morocco World
2 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Remote, App-Based Work is Rising in Morocco, But Workers Lack Legal Protection
Rabat – Morocco's job market is rapidly changing, with more people working remotely or through apps like delivery and ride-hailing services. A new report from the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council (ESEC) says that while these new types of work offer flexibility and opportunities, many workers are not protected by labor laws. Workers involved in similar app-based employment often lack health insurance, retirement benefits, and job security, said the report as it raised serious concerns about their rights and future. Morocco's job market is undergoing major changes due to digital technology and artificial intelligence, the council said, adding that these changes became even more common after the COVID-19 pandemic. The situation creates new ways of working, such as remote jobs, short-term work, and jobs through digital platforms. Many jobs today are no longer tied to traditional office spaces or fixed hours, the report added, citing jobs like food and parcel delivery through apps, ride-hailing services, online content creation, translation, software development, design, and consulting services. Some people also work only part-time, sometimes for different employers at the same time, or while studying or managing family responsibilities. These new forms of work offer several advantages, as they give employers more flexibility in organizing work and finding talent from different regions and backgrounds. They can also reduce costs, increase productivity, improve service quality, and help create jobs. The report found that the flexibility allows workers to better balance their professional and personal lives. It can also help women, people with disabilities, and older people to find jobs that suit their needs and situations. Remote work also reduces traffic, lowers pressure on public transport, and supports energy efficiency. Legal and social challenges Despite these benefits, the council warned of serious risks facing many of these workers, including the lack of clear legal regulations. Many people in these new jobs are not covered by labor laws or protected by contracts. The report outlined other challenges, such as low and unstable incomes, lack of health insurance and retirement plans, as well as lack of compensation if they lose their job or suffer from work-related illnesses. Some also struggle to separate work from personal time, or to protect their personal data, added the report. Another concern is the difficulty of joining trade unions or taking part in workplace discussions and decisions. These workers often do not enjoy basic rights guaranteed to others in regular jobs, according to the council. It explained that Morocco's current legal system does not reflect the special nature of these new jobs. Many of them rely heavily on digital tools and offer a wide range of flexibility, but laws still focus on old models of full-time, on-site work. Because of this gap, many workers in these growing sectors do not have access to social protection systems like family allowances, unemployment benefits, or retirement pensions. The council's report called on decision makers to put in place new legal and social frameworks to protect workers in the modern job market. Tags: app workEmploymentremote work
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Registration Opens For Free Virtual Event On Navigating Cancer And Employment, Allsup Explains
Cancer and Careers' 15th annual National Conference on Work & Cancer set for Friday, June 27, 2025, providing resources and education to patients, survivors and caregivers Terry J. Geist, Principal Advocate at Allsup Belleville, Illinois, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allsup, a leading provider of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) representation, return to work and veterans disability appeals services, is proud to sponsor Cancer and Careers' 15th annual National Conference on Work & Cancer , scheduled for Friday, June 27, 2025. This free virtual event provides essential education and resources to individuals with cancer, their caregivers, healthcare professionals and advocates who support them in the workplace. 'Cancer and Careers is a powerful voice for individuals balancing employment after a cancer diagnosis,'said Terry J. Geist, Principal Advocate at Allsup.'By supporting Cancer and Careers, we help ensure that patients and survivors have access to a broad range of resources that complement our SSDI representation and return-to-work services, empowering them to navigate their employment challenges.' With over 40 years of expertise, Allsup has effectively helped more than 400,000 individuals who have disabilities or severe health issues to secure SSDI benefits when their conditions restrict their ability to work. The SSDI experts at Allsup lead clients through the SSDI claims process, often a complex one, that can require multiple appeals with the Social Security Administration. 'As claimants get through a lengthy waiting period for approval—often spanning several months or longer—they can take advantage of Disability Financial Solutions®, an exclusive Allsup service designed to relieve financial concerns for SSDI claimants. DFS helps with concerns such as daily living expenses, credit card bills and healthcare needs,' Geist explained. After receiving SSDI approval, beneficiaries considering a return to the workforce can benefit from the assistance offered by Allsup Employment Services (AES), a subsidiary of Allsup and a Social Security-authorized Employment Network. AES assigns a dedicated vocational expert to beneficiaries and offers free support and resources through the Ticket to Work Program. This year's conference will delve into a variety of topics critical to the cancer community, including balancing treatment and work, disclosure decisions, managing side effects in the workplace, and effective communication strategies. The conference is designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to manage their careers through the cancer journey successfully. Sessions will feature real-time closed captioning to ensure accessibility for all attendees, and continuing education credits will be available for nurses, social workers and HR professionals. For more information or to register for the virtual event, visit ABOUT CANCER AND CAREERSFounded in 2001, Cancer and Careers is committed to eliminating fear and uncertainty for working people with cancer through direct support, services and education. In addition to programs for individuals, Cancer and Careers offers companies advisement and training through facilitated panels, workshops for managers and colleagues, policy guidance, focus groups, and more. ABOUT ALLSUPAllsup and its subsidiaries provide nationwide Social Security disability, veterans disability appeal, disability financial solutions, return to work, and healthcare benefits services for individuals, their employers and insurance carriers. Allsup professionals deliver specialized services supporting people with disabilities and seniors so they may lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible. Founded in 1984, the company is based in Belleville, Illinois, near St. Louis. Learn more at and @Allsup or download a free PDF of Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance: Getting It Right The First Time. Attachment Terry J. Geist, Principal Advocate at Allsup CONTACT: Rebecca Ray Allsup (618) 236-5065 Laura C. Sala Allsup (618) 409-7079
