An Odyssey with Anum Farooq (Odyssey Global Media)

Odyssey Global Media is pleased to globally broadcast "The Views of Life" series with cooperation partners Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and European Blind Union Julius interviews Dorota Krać, member of the Polish Association of the Blind (PZN), on the current situation of visually impaired people in Poland. The deep-going interview explains how better education and more empathy in general could help to improve the situation of people with disabilities - especially for access to the labour market. #ViewsOfLife is a cooperative media project by European Blind Union (EBU) and ORF_connect for technical support of production. Through this initiative, journalist Julius Kratky will interview people from different EBU National Members to know more about the situation of blind and partially sighted people across Europe. EBU-Editor: Nacho Lopez Links: pzn.org.pl Cooperation/partners: European Blind Union: euroblind.org and ORF - Austrian Broadcasting Corporation orf.at ORF_connect is an initiative for video communication.

9/11/24 • 07:28

Odyssey Global Media is pleased to globally broadcast "The Views of Life" series with cooperation partners Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and European Blind Union. Julius interviews Cristina Barreto, member of Organización Nacional de Ciegos Españoles, on the current situation of visually impaired people in Spain. In the second half of 2023, Spain will overtake the presidency of the Council of the European Union. Cristina explains how this will help the Spanish organizations for persons with disabilities to achieve their goals. At the same time, she also discusses the introduction of the new European Disability Card. #ViewsOfLife is a cooperative media project by European Blind Union (EBU) and ORF_connect for technical support of production. Through this initiative, journalist Julius Kratky will interview people from different EBU National Members to know more about the situation of blind and partially sighted people across Europe. EBU-Editor: Nacho Lopez Links: once.es Cooperation/partners: European Blind Union: euroblind.org and ORF - Austrian Broadcasting Corporation orf.at ORF_connect is an initiative for video communication.

9/7/24 • 06:01

Odyssey Global Media is pleased to globally broadcast "The Views of Life" series with cooperation partners Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and European Blind Union. Julius interviews Reiner Delgado, officer of Social Affairs of the German Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted (DBSV), on the current situation of visually impaired people in Germany. #ViewsOfLife is a cooperative media project by European Blind Union (EBU) and ORF_connect for technical support of production. Through this initiative, journalist Julius Kratky will interview people from different EBU National Members to know more about the situation of blind and partially sighted people across Europe. EBU-Editor: Nacho Lopez Cooperation/partners: European Blind Union: euroblind.org and ORF - Austrian Broadcasting Corporation orf.at ORF_connect is an initiative for video communication.

9/3/24 • 08:35

Odyssey Global Media is pleased to globally broadcast "The Views of Life" series with cooperation partners Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and European Blind Union.   Views of Life: Luboš Zajíc, President of Czech Blind United (SONS)   Julius interviews Luboš Zajíc, president of Czech Blind United (SONS), on the current situation of visually impaired people in the Czech Republic. #ViewsOfLife is a cooperative media project by European Blind Union (EBU) and ORF_connect for technical support of production. Through this initiative, journalist Julius Kratky will interview people from different EBU National Members to know more about the situation of blind and partially sighted people across Europe. EBU-Editor: Nacho Lopez Cooperation/partners: European Blind Union: euroblind.org and ORF - Austrian Broadcasting Corporation orf.at ORF_connect is an initiative for video communication.  

8/31/24 • 06:26

Odyssey Global Media is pleased to globally broadcast "The Views of Life" series with cooperation partners Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and European Blind Union.   Views Of Life: Elisa Montonen - Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired. Julius interviews Elisa Montonen, rights advisor at the Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired (Näkövammaisten liitto), on the current situation of visually impaired people in Finland. #ViewsOfLife is a cooperative media project by European Blind Union (EBU) and ORF_connect for technical support of production. Through this initiative, journalist Julius Kratky will interview people from different EBU National Members to know more about the situation of blind and partially sighted people across Europe. EBU-Editor: Nacho Lopez Cooperation/partners: European Blind Union: euroblind.org and ORF - Austrian Broadcasting Corporation orf.at ORF_connect is an initiative for video communication.    

8/26/24 • 06:02

Odyssey Global Media is pleased to globally broadcast "The Views of Life" series with cooperation partners Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and European Blind Union. In this first episode, the executive director of the EBU - The European Blind Union - Lars Bosselmann and EBU external communication officer, Nacho Lopez are explaining what are the goals of the new videocast VIEWS OF LIFE. Cooperation/partners: European Blind Union: euroblind.org and ORF - Austrian Broadcasting Corporation orf.at ORF_connect is an initiative for video communication. #ViewsOfLife is a cooperative media project by European Blind Union (EBU) and ORF_connect for technical support of production. Through this initiative, journalist Julius Kratky will interview people from different EBU National Members to know more about the situation of blind and partially sighted people across Europe. EBU-Editor: Nacho Lopez

8/25/24 • 06:38

Introducing LiveableCitiesX #IAmACityChangemaker interview series, where they engage in conversations with changemakers from around the world. One of their advisory board members, Gil Penalosa, Founder of 8 80 Cities and hashtag#Cities4Everyone, shared his inspiring insights on how we can create liveable, equitable and sustainable cities of the future, driving impactful urban change. Explore his perspectives on this topic and stay updated as we approach LiveableCitiesX 2024. Join the movement today: https://lnkd.in/ds3SwzkQ Interview led by their Head of Communications, Ranju Warrier #IAmACityChangemaker #LiveableCitiesX #UrbanDevelopment #Sustainability #EconomicDevelopment

7/30/24 • 11:39

Welcome to a special "Blue Planet" Podcast, where we explore the captivating stories and artistic visions behind this global initiative from Odyssey Global Media, celebrating the wonders of our oceans. I'm thrilled to take you on this journey of creative expression and environmental advocacy. On July 23rd, 2024, the world came together for the grand unveiling of the "Blue Planet" global digital exhibition - an Odyssey Global Media Global Grassroots Art Event that showcased the remarkable works of artists from around the world. Each piece has been crafted to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation, and to inspire sustainability conversations that will protect the health of our blue planet. In this special podcast series, we'll have the privilege of hearing directly from some of the talented artists whose work is featured in the "Blue Planet" exhibition. You'll learn about the personal experiences, environmental passions, and creative visions that have guided their artistic process. From the vibrant hues of coral reefs to the mesmerizing movements of marine life, these creatives will share the powerful messages they've woven into their captivating pieces.

7/26/24 • 23:17

In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship, as well as for addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development. The theme for World Youth Skills Day 2024, "Youth Skills for Peace and Development," underscores the crucial role young people play in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. The world faces a multitude of challenges today, many of which affect the youth. It is crucial to equip youth with the necessary skills for fostering a culture of peace, nurturing responsible global citizens, and promoting sustainable development to build a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future for all. (Source : United Nations) Michelle Kim is a sustainability educator, youth community leader and advocate working heavily on UN SDGs & Social+Environmental pillars of sustainability. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a study focused on sustainability at the University of Alberta, and is completing her Global Development Master’s Degree at Harvard University whilst working as a sustainability, leadership, and indigenous program manager at the University of Alberta.  She has been involved in current climate education in both global South and North, working at international and local levels. Anum Farooq is an Associate of the Royal College of Science and Imperial College London alumna. She is a UN YCIG Mentor, and current MTE Climate Ambassador with an interest in nature inspired art. She holds over a decade of experience in the education sector and has partaken in youth advocacy.  Anum is the Director of Heal Earth; whose  mission is to provide comprehensive, innovative educational solutions that empower the next generation to become environmental leaders and sustainability advocates.

7/21/24 • 36:04

'Deafblindness is a combined vision and hearing impairment of such severity that it is hard for the impaired senses to compensate for each other. Thus, deafblindness is a distinct disability. To varying degrees, deafblindness limits activities and restricts full participation in society. It affects social life, communication, access to information, orientation and the ability to move around freely and safely. To help compensate for the combined vision and hearing impairment, especially the tactile sense becomes important. Representing between 0.2% to 2% of the population, persons with deafblindness are a very diverse yet hidden group and are, overall, more likely to be poor and unemployed, and with lower educational outcomes. Because deafblindness is less wellknown and often misunderstood, people struggle to obtain the right support, and are often excluded from both development and disability programmes.' WFDB is a global non-governmental advocacy organization by and for persons with deafblindness, aiming to improve the quality of life and protect the rights of this distinct disability group. WFDB was established in 2001 and consists today of 75 national and associated member organizations from 67 different countries from all corners of the world. Relationships have been established with The World Blind Union (WBU), The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), Deafblind International (DbI) and The World Association of Sign Language Interpreters (WASLI). In 2007 the organization attained consultative status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is a member of the International Disability Alliance (IDA) where the WFDB President serves as a member of the board. Sanja Tarczay was born deaf in Zagreb, Croatia, and later became Deafblind. In 1994, she founded the Croatian Association of Deafblind Persons “Dodir,” where she continues to serve as President. Sanja is also a lecturer on Deafblindness and Sign Language at universities in Zagreb and has published multiple papers. From 2013 to 2022, she served as President of the European Deafblind Union and was a member of the Disability Rights Fund's Grantmaking Committee. Fluent in five sign languages and two spoken languages, Sanja earned her Doctorate in 2014. Since October 2022, she has been the President of the World Federation of the Deafblind, advocating for global equality and inclusion. Lucia D'Arino is the Program Advisor at the World Federation of the Deafblind (WFDB). Born in Spain to an Argentinian family, she holds a background in International Relations and European Studies. Lucia has extensive experience working with organizations of persons with disabilities across Europe and internationally. In her current role, she coordinates WFDB's international projects and campaigns and manages advocacy and communication activities. Lucia is an expert in human rights, accessibility, and intersectionality.

7/11/24 • 39:20

In this episode, we talk with Ghaleya Almansoori about her innovative mobile art studio, Kenaz, which she has launched in the United Arab Emirates. Kenaz is a unique initiative that blends modern art techniques with traditional regional crafts, offering hands-on workshops and creative experiences for the local community. Ghaleya developed Kenaz as part of her graduate thesis in MA Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. The mobile studio travels to different regions and public spaces in the Emirates, bringing high-quality art supplies and instruction directly to participants. Through Kenaz, Ghaleya hopes to preserve cultural heritage while also inspiring creative self-expression. In our conversation, she discusses her passion for arts education, the design and logistics of the mobile studio, and the positive impact she's already seen from Kenaz's workshops. Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply appreciate the arts, this episode offers a fascinating look at how one Emirati innovator is reimagining art accessibility in the region.

6/28/24 • 23:03

Marine Tanguy : The Visual Detox In The Visual Detox, art expert and businesswoman Marine Tanguy explains how the imagery we see shapes our wellbeing. She gives us new tools to think critically about images, combat information overload and participate more in the visual world around us by engaging with the art and content that improves our day-to-day experiences online, at work, in our homes and in public spaces.   Marine Tanguy launched Certified B Corporation, MTArt Agency in 2015, following a career in visual arts in London and LA. MTArt agency is worth £35 million and is the art sector’s leading talent agency representing some of the most talented, forward-thinking artists in the world. The agency looks to support, promote and enable artists to work with the broadest canvas possible, from working with brands to public art and fine art institutions. The agency works with global organisations and cities, nurturing an international community of art-lovers and collectors as well as diverse brands ranging from Apple to Dior and even the World Cup. Marine is an influencer and passionate advocate for the role of the artist in guiding the public through a world flooded with visual noise and the agency seeks to ensure artists are rightly recognised as the spokespeople for a visual age.  As a business person, Marine was awarded Forbes 2018 30 under 30 Europe: Art & Culture, UK entrepreneur of the year for the 2019 NatWest Awards and Woman of the Year 2021 by the magazine WOTC. She is a writer and keynote speaker on contemporary art and art investment. Her talks include two TEDx Talks on how to transform cities with art and how social media visuals affect our minds and she has recently published her first book “The Visual Detox – How to Consume Media Without Letting it Consume You” with Penguin.

5/23/24 • 26:27

Step into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence with Odyssey Global Media, where we explore the intersection of technology and humanity. In this episode, we embark on a unique journey, interviewing artificial intelligence. Prepare to be captivated as we delve into the inner workings of AI, its potential impact on society, and even explore profound philosophical questions about consciousness and the future of humanity.   Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation as we uncover: The intricate mechanisms of AI and its learning algorithms. The potential for collaboration between humans and AI, unlocking new possibilities. The ethical considerations and potential biases that need to be addressed in AI development. The future of AI and its impact on our lives, shaping the world around us. Philosophical inquiries about consciousness and free will.

5/19/24 • 28:07

Join us as we discuss neuroaesthetics, human potential through creativity as well as redefining success through a holistic lens, amongst experiential art experiences in the insightful conversation with Francesca Ciaudano.   Francesca Ciaudano is the Founder of The CoWell, including The CoWell Design with neuroaesthetics applied to interior design objects. She is an Italian artist, writer and sound therapist. Francesca left an international corporate career, tirelessly built over 25 years, to pursue art. She is now a full-time abstract painter on a mission to revolutionise how art is viewed, and to highlight its benefits for mental and emotional wellbeing – a life philosophy she named Beingfullness™.   Francesca's most recent lecture on Art for Healing was held at Fabriano In Acquarello (a UNESCO Creative City).   One of her works has been featured in a short film by the Academy Award-winning filmmaker Juan Carlos Zaldívar, as well as on ikonotv.art and the Global Fine Art Awards channel. Francesca's work was also included in Better Living, a Dubai-based home interiors magazine, and in the first beyond neutral gallery, C2Zero Art in Australia.

5/16/24 • 44:36

Noor sees mobility as an integral part of the human experience. She also experiences that globalization changes the way in which we understand our sense of belonging. The world has become our home, while this global accessibility has also outgrown our understanding of home. Noor is curious to explore how we, as individuals and societies, can strengthen our embodied sense of belonging to ourselves, our communities, and nature – regardless of the geographical location. How may we come home and feel rooted again? At the age of 16, Noor moved by herself to New Mexico where she finished the last two years of her high school. After obtaining degrees in political science, history and international development in Germany and Switzerland, Noor moved all over the world to work with communities on matters of migration and displacement. She spoke with hundreds of people on their migratory experience, including in Libya, Chad, Iraq, Uganda, Congo, and Palestine. After more than ten years abroad, she lived through her own sense of uprootedness upon return to the Netherlands. Currently, Noor is integrating her lived experience in her work as policy maker, entrepreneur and speaker.  Through Rooted, Noor intends to create a space where people can consciously and jointly reflect on their sense of rootedness.

5/5/24 • 41:32

Odyssey Global Media Global held a Grassroots Global Autism Conference focusing on the theme of lived experiences, and individual perspectives from a local to a global level, to carry forward the human narrative.   Thiandi Grooff lives in Amsterdam in her own apartment with 24/7 support because she has no muscle control. She has a masters in International and European Human Rights Law. She is a member of quiet riot, a group of non-verbal poets and activists, campaigning for full inclusion and inclusive education.   Juan Cobeñas lives in Argentina, and has a degree in Spanish and Literature and a postgraduate certificate in Cognitive Accessibility. He uses a wheelchair and communicates using a form of alternative augmentative communication.   Sarah-Jane comes from a traditional Fine Art background. She studied for a BA (Hons) Fine Art at Liverpool John Moore's University (UK) and DipCipris (a postgraduate degree) in Fine Art at the Cyprus College of Art (Cyprus). Continuing her studies, she focused on creative education, completing a PGCE (Art & Design) at the University of Leeds (UK) and a Post-16 Teaching Certificate at Cyprus College of Art (Cyprus).   Rachel Winder is an Autistic Autism consultant. She has a lifetime of personal Autistic experiences and knowledge to help bridge the gap between Autistic and non-autistic worlds. She is on the National Autistic Society’s Autism Services Directory, with an MA in Autism.    Rachel is fluent in British Sign Language, and can communicate fluently with Deaf-Blind people who use Deaf-Blind Manual, Block and Visual frame signing. She also has a Qualified Teacher Learning Status (QTLS) allowing her to teach people age 14 years and beyond.     Ghafaria is a specialist mentor in mental health conditions and Autism.   She is a research student (Psychology and Human Development Dept), UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society.   Ghafaria is neurodivergent researcher that is interested in Autism and mental health in the South Asian people that live in the United Kingdom. Also, she is passionate about intersectionalities and how these impact the lived experiences of people.   Susan Golubock was diagnosed with Autism in her early fifties. As a now-retired occupational therapist she specialized in sensory processing, executive functioning, and pursued a master's degree in assistive technology.   All of these skills, along with her passion for understanding differences in brain functioning, enabled her to develop training modules to help neurotypical individuals to better understand and support the neurological strengths and differences of individuals with Autism.    

4/9/24 • 34:15

يوم المرأة العالمي الاستثمار في النساء: تسريع وتيرة التقدم الأمم المتحدة: أصبح تحقيق المساواة بين الجنسين ورفاهية المرأة في جميع جوانب الحياة أكثر أهمية من أي وقت مضى إذا أردنا إنشاء اقتصادات مزدهرة وكوكب صحي   المتحدثة: شذى المهيري شابة إماراتية طموحة ، موظفة ورائدة أعمال تمتلك درجة البكالوريوس في العلاقات العامة ودبلوم مهني في إسعاد المتعاملين. حاصلة على أكثر من ثلاثين شهادة في مجموعة متنوعة من الدورات والمجالات. كما وتمتلك خبرة وظيفية تزيد عن تسعة سنوات   المتحدثة: فاطمة الشرهان شابة إماراتية طموحة متعددة المواهب والقدرات، فنانة تشكيلية ومصممة جرافيكية، مصورة فوتوغرافية، شاعرة وكاتبة، تعمل كمدير علاقات عامة في إحدى شركات القطاع الخاص. حاصلة على بكالوريوس في العلوم التطبيقية (اتصال تطبيقي – اعلام تطبيقي) من كليات التقنية العليا في رأس الخيمة   المتحدثة: حصه آل علي شابة إماراتية طموحة، طالبة ماجستير في الخدمة الاجتماعية والصحة النفسية، حاصلة على درجة البكالوريوس في العلوم السياسية ودبلوم كمستشار أسري، تعمل بدوام كامل وتمتلك بزنس ناجح في صناعة الأكواب الفخارية يدوياً، الذي حقق شهرة كبيرة عبر تطبيق تيك توك بمشاهدات تصل إلى 1.7 مليون مشاهدة   المتحدثة: آسية القرشي مدرب ريادي معتمد مستشار التطوير محلل شخصيات    

3/7/24 • 55:59

Penelope Magoulianiti :Uncompromising Success - Achieving Your Best in Business and Home Penelope Magoulianiti  is a transformational coach and expert who empowers women around the world to balance their professional and personal lives.  Born and raised in Cyprus, Penelope ventured into corporate banking for 20 years. At 40, she resigned from a successful career, authored "Women, Motherhood and Independence"    Penelope's philosophy, Balance 360™, emphasizes tailor-made strategies for each client.  She holds a certification from The Life Coaching School and is an approved trainer by the Cyprus Government Body. She is a graduate of Antony Robbins Mastery University, and she has attended, over the last twenty years, many training courses for personal development, leadership, and women's empowerment.      With over seven years of experience in coaching, Penelope has received recognition by being awarded the GIFEW Evolutionary Women Inspiring Solopreneur Award 2023 and a finalist in the Businesswomen Awards 2016

2/26/24 • 44:04

Anum Farooq : The Neurodivergent Professional and Global Outlooks An introductory series relating to neurodivergency and global systems, by first looking at perspectives from the world of work and the neurodivergent professional. According to the Harvard Business Review; "Neurodiversity is a competitive advantage, and a growing number of prominent companies have reformed their HR processes in order to access neurodiverse talent; among them are SAP, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Microsoft, Willis Towers Watson, Ford, and EY. Many others, including Caterpillar, Dell Technologies, Deloitte, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, and UBS, have start-up or exploratory efforts under way.  SAP uses a metaphor to communicate this idea across the organization: People are like puzzle pieces, irregularly shaped. Historically, companies have asked employees to trim away their irregularities, because it’s easier to fit people together if they are all perfect rectangles. But that requires employees to leave their differences at home—differences firms need in order to innovate. “The corporate world has mostly missed out on this [benefit].   John Elder Robison, a scholar in residence and a cochair of the Neurodiversity Working Group at the College of William & Mary, writes “Indeed, many individuals who embrace the concept of neurodiversity believe that people with differences do not need to be cured; they need help and accommodation instead.”   Anum Farooq is a highly accomplished and diversified, neurodivergent professional with an established skills set across education, entrepreneurial, youth and environmental advocacy, culture and arts field, as well as being internationally published. Anum brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, creativity, and analytical skills to deliver innovative solutions to complex challenges, as a graduate of Imperial College London with a component of her degree in Management from Imperial College London Business School. Anum is also a country wide ambassador for an educational NGO. With a proven track record in driving organizational success as Director of Odyssey Global Media, optimizing operational efficiency, and fostering stakeholder engagement, she is a results-oriented professional committed to achieving exceptional outcomes. She is also an United Nations FCCC Youth Constituent and is an IYC Youth Advocate. She champions for education and neurodivergent individuals, and leads from her heart to make a meaningful impact on the world. Anum is also a globally published artist, with her artwork is displayed on dedicated art channels and streamed across major platforms including Apple TV Plus, Samsung TV Plus, VIZIO, ViX, Google Play, Xumo and LG TV amongst others as a Loupe Artist.   She has been awarded the 2023 Artistic Excellence Award from the Circle Foundation for the Arts in Greece, and Exceptional Merit in the 4th Edition of the Global Talent Art Prize. She received the RAK Fine Arts Festival 2023 English Poetry Award in the UAE. In 2022, Anum was longlisted for Digital Innovation in Art Award and was a participant in the Noon Arts Award exhibition.  Anum's artistic achievements extend beyond the art world, with her work being recognized by the wider community. In 2021, she was invited to be a Linked INNYC Women of the World Artist, highlighting her impact and influence on society as a whole. Her work has also been featured in social media campaigns, including The Poignant Rose in the Art, Culture, Tourism UK Social Media Campaign of 2021.

2/10/24 • 15:39

Ami Valdemoro and Illac Diaz: Empowering Communities Through Sustainable and Solar Liter of Light   Liter of Light is a global, grassroots movement committed to providing affordable, sustainable solar light to people with limited or no access to electricity. Through a network of partnerships around the world, Liter of Light volunteers teach marginalized communities how to use recycled plastic bottles and locally sourced materials to illuminate their homes, businesses, and streets. Liter of Light has installed more than 350,000 bottle lights in more than 15 countries and taught green skills to empower grassroots entrepreneurs at every stop. Liter of Light's open source technology has been recognized by the UN and adopted for use in some UNHCR camps. Liter of Light is the proud recipient of the 2016 St. Andrews Prize for the Environment, the 2015 Zayed Future Energy Prize, and a winner of the 2014-2015 World Habitat Award.   Through social media and community replication, the movement has spread; 145,200 households in the Philippines, and 353,600+ homes in over 15 countries with main offices in Philippines, USA, and Colombia. Women's cooperatives now operate building the Liter of Light @Night lights in the Philippines, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Colombia.        

1/30/24 • 20:31

Climate change and sustainability perspectives from Her Excellency Chizoba Nzeakor, who is a highly accomplished Global Youth Ambassador, Entrepreneur, and SDGs 4, 7, and 13 Advocate, with a strong focus on climate and clean energy.   As a member of the Queens Commonwealth Youth Trust Network and the Commonwealth Sustainable Energy Transition Youth Executives, Chizoba is part of a global community of over 850 leaders dedicated to creating positive social change in the Commonwealth. She is also an MBA candidate at Quantic Business School, a Fellow at Student Energy, and a UN-SDSN Local pathways Fellow.   Her professional experience and expertise in this field have earned her recognition as a future leader, by the Aspen Institute at the Aspen Ideas Climate Summit in Miami Beach 2023   Chizoba is the Founder and CEO of Climate Technology Solutions, Zoba Advisory, and Caroline Raphael Events. Her passion for renewable energy, event planning, project management, climate change education, and clean energy advocacy has led her to work with renewable energy firms, climate education organizations, and other institutions to accelerate the Net Zero goals and create access to clean energy, education, and various other opportunities.   With her extensive experience in the field, Chizoba has worked as a solar/inverter system developer, accelerating the demand for solar energy by creating relationships that bridge the gap. As an energy and climate finance specialist for PAWAVEST, she led analysis and managed institutional partnerships in clean energy finance. She has also served as the Head of Business Development, Partnerships, and Programs at Zenelgie Global Solutions, an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction renewable energy company. Currently, she is an Energy Project Coordinator at Integrated Africa Power in Bonn, Germany.

12/25/23 • 19:15

An incredibly insightful interview with film-maker, director, author and artist Paul Vernon and his fiancée Kelsey Smith who is an optician and a manager at The Eye Place.   The conversation centred on film-making, directing, acting, art exhibitions, books, management to artificial intelligence and museums with fascinating perspectives.   Paul Vernon is an internationally screened award-winning filmmaker, author and artist whose work has been selected in places such as London Short Film Festival at the ICA, BAFTA, San Diego Comic-Con and LACMA. With press coverage by the BBC and film commissions for the Danish Arts Foundation, as well as collaboration with the Arts Council England.   His film '​​Lost In The Nameless City' had its world premiere in competition at the Artists Forum Festival of The Moving Image in New York, was the winner of an Experimental Award in Romania and screened in Mexico in competition among only nine other films ​at the Cinetekton International Film & Architecture Festival.    He has also authored two books, one being 'Strange Space: An inquisitive gaze at ignored architectural splendor, intricate mundanity and the soul of its nuances. He is currently working on his film 'Spirit' in the Unearth art collective, curating and designing his new museum Vortex as part of his label Captain Cowboy and has started working with AI illustration tools towards virtual exhibitions, exploration, experimentation and fresh narratives.  Kelsey Smith has a Science background as a qualified dispensing optician educated at Anglia Ruskin university, recently becoming the manager of her own store for company The Eye Place in London. She has a creative streak and has crafted gifts, sewn, acted and helped curate and install art exhibitions.

12/21/23 • 43:44

Incredibly wonderful to meet fellow United Nations FCCC YOUNGO Youth Constituents at COP28 to hear their insights for the Odyssey Global Media Podcasts. An absolute honour to meet Michelle Kim who is a sustainability educator, youth community leader and advocate working heavily on UN SDGs & Social+Environmental pillars of sustainability.  She has numerous lived experiences growing up in four different countries- Korea, Philippines, Canada and U.S, and experienced poverty, climate crisis to racism.  Therefore, all her experiences are rooted from her care and love for people and the planet. I adore her ethos of 'No one gets left behind'. Michelle is currently completing her Global Development Master’s Degree at Harvard University Meeting Michelle was a real privilege and this is a beginning of our collaboration, and hopefully more for the future! Michelle has incredible meaningful work from being involved in current climate education in both global South and North, working at international and local levels. As youth ambassador with UN Association Canada, she worked to promote UN SDGs; and worked with charity organization in Canada for indigenous youth and marginalized youth on developing climate initiative projects for Great Toronto Area, amongst other incredible achievements.

12/16/23 • 16:34

BOB BOWEN: AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER THROUGH INNOVATIVE RESEARCH AND A HUMANE PERSPECTIVE   Bob Bowen is an Adjunct Professor of Social Work at Malone University in Canton,  Ohio (USA) and a behavior support practitioner with Prag Consulting in Melbourne, Australia. He has over 40 years of experience supporting individuals with complex behavioral needs in the United States, Canada, and Australia. He has provided keynote and plenary presentations at conferences in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, Australia, Hong Kong, Canada and the United States. Bob is the developer of The Matrix of Needs, an innovative approach to understanding human needs. He has published over 20 peer and scientifically reviewed articles, three book chapters, and presented hundreds of workshops on the prevention of workplace violence, while improving the quality of life for people affected by disabilities, and the staff who support them. During his career in human services, Bob has held positions ranging from direct support professional to CEO and almost everything in between. He has also served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Rochester in New York for eleven years, and also has experience teaching at Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, and at Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, Iowa. In his work and his writing, Bob strives to integrate his passion for knowledge and compassion for people into a humanistic framework for behavior support that is trauma centered, not just trauma informed. Bob is a member of the Expert Advisory Group for the National Psychosocial Safety Network in Australia, the Restraint Reduction Network in the United Kingdom, the  National Association of Social Workers, the National Organization of Human Services and the Association for Positive Behaviour Support. Bob is certified in trauma treatment  through the National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine, and  the Trauma Research Foundation

11/27/23 • 42:44

GABRIELLA SILVAGNOLI: INSIGHTS FROM A GLOBAL ART CURATOR Gabriella Silvagnoli is a Puerto Rican-born people person with a love for video creation, art, and visuals. She studied at Boston University and graduated with a bachelor’s in Film and Television and a minor in Art History. Gabriella’s passion for art and design led her to the New York and London art world scenes, where she has worked as an art advisor, video producer, and art curator. She has helped curate the artwork for countless residential and hospitality spaces worldwide. Gabriella now works as a digital art curator at Loupe Art, an art streaming platform focused on bringing art onscreen and transforming spaces, one screen at a time.

9/23/23 • 29:44

KATHARINA EISENBERG : EXPLORING ART THROUGH SPIRITUAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES Katharina Eisenberg (also known as: Kunst und Klartext) is a contemporary artist from Germany. Concerned with the abilities of the human mind, her works reflect  psychological and global issues, mirroring the qualities and specifics of the time and sphere we live in. In her multiparted series - acrylic paintings and mixed media 3D installations- she also often works with symbols, which talk to the subconscious.  Currently making international projects and art residencies in different countries, expanding her global network to get to know the meta-level of various forms of beings. This is a great inspiration for her, leading to multilayered new artistic impulses. The metamorphosis process is very aware in her artwork, the phoenix will tell you more.  

9/7/23 • 24:44

MARY ANNE DE HAAN : GROWING SUSTAINABLE MICROGREENS, HERBS & EDIBLE FLOWERS IN THE DESERT ENVIRONMENT  A fascinating conversation with the Founder and Director of Mary Anne’s Fresh Produce through a holistic lens from sustainability in farming methods, to experiences of being an entrepreneur and the interlinks between primary farming industries to tertiary cuisine sectors. An innovative and forward thinking farm where sustainable microgreens, herbs and edible flowers are grown in the UAE desert environment. From Nasturtiums, Amaranth, Gem Marigolds to Genovese Basil amongst others. Mary Anne De Haan grew up in a small town in the Netherlands, she was raised by a Dutch dad and an American mother, together with her little brother. She has an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering and a Masters in International Business. She relocated to Dubai as an expat, and initially started working as an account manager who would support with particular trainings, and her fascination with agriculture grew. She is now a working mum, with two dogs, two turtles and a horse, with an expanding family. She  is the founder Mary Anne’s Fresh Produce, where they are committed to bringing the Dubai chef the greatest variety of special products grown locally at the farm through sustainable methods. Mary Anne’s Fresh Produce grow a large variety of innovative products that help chefs bring their dishes to the next level. Products range from edible flowers, to microgreens and specialty leaves, through ensuring the highest level of quality through their unique growing method.

8/31/23 • 34:00

Emirati Women's Day   Female perspectives on Emirati Women's Day, exploring perspectives and insights through a lens of art, culture and heritage.    Nesa Khaled Alshehhi, an Emirati Artist, Sculptor, Designer & Entrepreneur. She was born in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. She holds a Bachelor in Fine Arts Studies from the University of Sharjah in 2013. She pursues contemporary, abstract and interactive conceptual art. Her artwork is  characterized by patriotism, its source is the land of the UAE (formally, thought and imagination), and its output is a link between the heritage of UAE and the modernity of the contemporary world. Nesa focused on extracting the (natural art) surrounding her. She has a deep relationship with nature, especially the desert environment and palm trees. She uses raw natural materials in her work, as a language to talk through and a way to show the beauty of natural details in the environment of the United Arab Emirates in a modern way different from the classic image that the public used to see. Nesa has been chosen as an Emirati artist and designers to work on many government projects. She has been appointed as a designer & supervisor for the Special Olympics (World Games - Abu Dhabi 2019) Monument which was built in Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah. she also did voluntary art installation for RAK Media Office. She also has been chosen by Zahrat Al Khaleej Magazine to participate in the Ataya Charity Exhibition in Abu Dhabi. She participated in Ras Al Khaimah Visual Arts Festival 2020 (as a guest of honor) with an interactive artwork titled (Who am I?). Other than that, she has participated in Dubai Art Exhibition amongst  other exhibitions and commercial projects.   Fatema Al Sharhan is a young, ambitious Emirati poet, writer and multitalented artist. She is known for her strong personality; she is able to explain her thoughts to others and leave a mark on their minds.'   Furthermore, Fatema is the founder of The Spark Media and Clutch n Pouch. She is also a graphic designer and the public relations manager for O and A group of companies, as well as being a certified international trainer of media communications and transformational coaching.  

8/27/23 • 16:57

OLLI-PEKKA HEINONEN : LEADERSHIP IN EDUCATION AND THE LEARNING JOURNEY  “It’s also the question of how you grow as a human being, how you understand what does it mean to be a human being.” Olli-Pekka Heinonen Director General of the International Baccalaureate. An authentic and honest conversation with Olli-Pekka Heinonen, addressing how education can be made as meaningful as possible for students, supporting them to become lifelong learners as well as the fine balance between skills and knowledge. Olli-Pekka is an ally and advocate for teachers, discussing the benefits of distributed leadership in education, and the meaningful way in which education is making an impact globally through a holistic process of learning. Olli-Pekka Heinonen was appointed as Finland’s State Secretary of Prime Minister in 2012, he became State Secretary of all National Coalition Party cabinet ministers in 2015. In September  2016, he was appointed general director of the Finnish National Agency for Education. Olli-Pekka has graduated as Master of Laws from the University of Helsinki in 1990. From 1994 to 1999, he served as the Minister of Education. In 1995, Olli-Pekka was elected to the Parliament of Finland, representing Satakunta. In the second Lipponen Cabinet, he served as the Minister of Transport and Communications from 1999 to 2002. In 2002 he was appointed a manager at Yleisradio, the public broadcasting company of Finland. He was responsible for the transfer from analogue television to digital television in Finland. In September 2016, he was appointed general director of the Finnish National Agency for Education. Since 1 May 2021 Olli-Pekka Heinonen has held the role of Director-General of the International Baccalaureate.

8/15/23 • 33:44

FATEMA ALSHARHAN: FUTURE PERSPECTIVES ON DIVERSITY OF TALENTS AND SKILLS   A wonderful conversation with the multitalented Fatema AlSharhan, who is breaking barriers and pushing boundaries with the wide array of disciplines that she is excelling in.   This interview is also an important conversation centering on topics such as having a diversity of talents and skills and to passionately fulfill them!   Fatema is a young, ambitious Emirati poet, writer and multitalented artist. She is known for her strong personality; she is able to explain her thoughts to others and leave a mark on their minds.'   Furthermore, Fatema is the founder of The Spark Media and Clutch n Pouch. She is also a graphic designer and the public relations manager for O and A group of companies, as well as being a certified international trainer of media communications and transformational coaching.  

7/26/23 • 36:44