Grameenphone's Lumière has emerged as a platform that transcends the conventional celebration of success. It illuminates the human stories behind remarkable achievements, resonating with the youth of Bangladesh, while amplifying the nation's narrative on the global stage. Through its two seasons and special episodes, the platform has brought inspiring tales of resilience and achievement to the forefront, resonating with audiences in Bangladesh and beyond. A transformative beginning: Season 1 The first season of Lumière began with a compelling promise — to unearth and celebrate the untold human stories behind success. The series kicked off with Rubaba Dowla, a distinguished figure in Bangladesh's corporate world, offering a deeply personal glimpse into her journey. Her narrative set the tone for the series, blending professional insights with intimate reflections. Following this, the platform featured Miti Sanjana, a passionate advocate for equal rights, whose story shed light on the challenges and triumphs of her activism. The season further explored diverse themes through episodes featuring Md Touhidur Rahman Rad, whose work in corporate leadership was interwoven with his passions for youth empowerment and photography, and Bibi Russell, whose contributions to sustainable fashion have placed Bangladesh on the global map. The season concluded with Kawshar Ahmed, a trailblazer in technology and entrepreneurship, whose story served as a fitting end to a series that celebrated ambition, creativity, and social impact. Reaching new heights: Season 2 Building on the foundation of its inaugural season, Lumière's second season expanded its horizons, featuring a more diverse array of stories. The season opener introduced Shehzad Munim, former Managing Director of British American Tobacco Bangladesh, who shared his perspectives on leadership and his enduring love for cricket. Other episodes spotlighted Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, a musician whose work exemplifies the transformative power of art, and Navidul Huq, co-founder of Bongo, whose entrepreneurial journey highlighted the dynamic tech landscape in Bangladesh. Shusmita Anis, celebrated for her evocative vocals, offered insights into her creative process, while Korvi Rakshand, founder of the JAAGO Foundation, shared his mission to revolutionise education. Celebrating cultural and environmental sustainability: special episodes Lumière also presented two noteworthy special episodes. One featured Kanak Chanpa Chakma, whose artwork celebrated the indigenous cultures, fostering understanding and bridging communities often divided by misconceptions. This episode concluded Lumière's annual offerings, symbolising unity and cultural celebration. The other special episode highlighted Shafiqul Alam Selim and his eco-friendly factory, Karupannya. As a leader in Bangladesh's handicraft industry, Selim showcased sustainable development inspired by local traditions and village architecture. His story reintroduced Lumière to the youth of a free Bangladesh, emphasising innovation rooted in cultural heritage. A platform for authenticity and connection At its core, Lumière stands out for its commitment to humanising success. The platform brings forward stories that delve into the universal struggles, dreams, and achievements that shape us all. Available across Grameenphone's LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube channels, the episodes foster connections between the audience and the luminaries by showcasing their resilience, authenticity, and humanity. This initiative aligns with Grameenphone's broader vision of fostering innovation and excellence, not just in technology but in narrative-building. Through Lumière, the company reinforces the idea that every achievement is rooted in deeply personal journeys, encouraging audiences to find inspiration in their own stories. Grameenphone's Lumière has emerged as a platform that transcends the conventional celebration of success. It illuminates the human stories behind remarkable achievements, resonating with the youth of Bangladesh, while amplifying the nation's narrative on the global stage. Through its two seasons and special episodes, the platform has brought inspiring tales of resilience and achievement to the forefront, resonating with audiences in Bangladesh and beyond. A transformative beginning: Season 1 The first season of Lumière began with a compelling promise — to unearth and celebrate the untold human stories behind success. The series kicked off with Rubaba Dowla, a distinguished figure in Bangladesh's corporate world, offering a deeply personal glimpse into her journey. Her narrative set the tone for the series, blending professional insights with intimate reflections. Following this, the platform featured Miti Sanjana, a passionate advocate for equal rights, whose story shed light on the challenges and triumphs of her activism. The season further explored diverse themes through episodes featuring Md Touhidur Rahman Rad, whose work in corporate leadership was interwoven with his passions for youth empowerment and photography, and Bibi Russell, whose contributions to sustainable fashion have placed Bangladesh on the global map. The season concluded with Kawshar Ahmed, a trailblazer in technology and entrepreneurship, whose story served as a fitting end to a series that celebrated ambition, creativity, and social impact. Reaching new heights: Season 2 Building on the foundation of its inaugural season, Lumière's second season expanded its horizons, featuring a more diverse array of stories. The season opener introduced Shehzad Munim, former Managing Director of British American Tobacco Bangladesh, who shared his perspectives on leadership and his enduring love for cricket. Other episodes spotlighted Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, a musician whose work exemplifies the transformative power of art, and Navidul Huq, co-founder of Bongo, whose entrepreneurial journey highlighted the dynamic tech landscape in Bangladesh. Shusmita Anis, celebrated for her evocative vocals, offered insights into her creative process, while Korvi Rakshand, founder of the JAAGO Foundation, shared his mission to revolutionise education. Celebrating cultural and environmental sustainability: special episodes Lumière also presented two noteworthy special episodes. One featured Kanak Chanpa Chakma, whose artwork celebrated the indigenous cultures, fostering understanding and bridging communities often divided by misconceptions. This episode concluded Lumière's annual offerings, symbolising unity and cultural celebration. The other special episode highlighted Shafiqul Alam Selim and his eco-friendly factory, Karupannya. As a leader in Bangladesh's handicraft industry, Selim showcased sustainable development inspired by local traditions and village architecture. His story reintroduced Lumière to the youth of a free Bangladesh, emphasising innovation rooted in cultural heritage. A platform for authenticity and connection At its core, Lumière stands out for its commitment to humanising success. The platform brings forward stories that delve into the universal struggles, dreams, and achievements that shape us all. Available across Grameenphone's LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube channels, the episodes foster connections between the audience and the luminaries by showcasing their resilience, authenticity, and humanity. This initiative aligns with Grameenphone's broader vision of fostering innovation and excellence, not just in technology but in narrative-building. Through Lumière, the company reinforces the idea that every achievement is rooted in deeply personal journeys, encouraging audiences to find inspiration in their own stories.
AP News Summary at 5:53 p.m. EST
FROM DUNGEON TO DAYLIGHT
s the , it’s time to start making lists, checking them twice, figuring out who’s naughty, and who deserves an incredibly nice gift. Whether you’re on the hunt for the for a loved one, trying to impress the in-laws, or simply indulging in some ultimate self-care, this list of gifts that are truly worth the splurge is designed to help make holiday shopping a little easier. We carefully curated this gift guide by poring over a range of items, from timeless, high-quality kitchenware and household goods to delightful under-the-radar finds, that are designed to put a sparkle in the eye of the recipient. Every gift idea here should bring a little extra magic to your celebrations and thrill anyone lucky to receive them—or at least give you a few items to add to your own wishlist. Red-light therapy is the latest, buzziest for skincare fanatics. This FDA-cleared device, available for $276.90, uses LED light to improve acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, while also tightening skin, calming redness, and evening skin tone. Plus, it does the job in just three minutes a day making it easy to fit skin care and self care into almost any schedule. Qure LED Light Therapy Mask on Anyone going over the river or through the woods (or getting packed into a middle seat in coach) will appreciate adding a little elegance to holiday schlepping with the Sofia Cashmere Travel Set, available starting at $395. The set includes an eye mask, socks, and super cozy blanket all in the softest cashmere with a hold-all bag to tuck into your carry on. It’s perfect for curling up and watching a movie on the seat-back entertainment system—and to make your fellow travelers jealous. Sofia Cashmere Travel Set on and Wild West enthusiasts—and, yes, fans—will appreciate , a compelling portrait of ranch life by Anouk Masson Krantz. This coffee table book, available for $85, combines gorgeous, black-and-white imagery of cowboys, ranchers, and their families in the land they love with a nice touch of history of the modern American west. on and Picking perfume for someone else is risky, which is why this perfume discovery set is so ingenious. Fable & Rune has put together a sampler pack of nine of their signature scents, including Bergamot & Black Pepper, Irish Moss & Petrichor, and Sicilian Orange Blossom. The rollerball samples, available in a set for $65, let folks try out all the fragrances and to find the perfect one to purchase full size. Discovery Set on This is the ultimate hair styling tool for pretty much anyone with hair. While the $599 price tag is certainly jaw-dropping, its fans swear it’s worth it since they no longer have to pay for professional blowouts. The proprietary technology sucks the hair onto the barrel and then wraps, dries, curls, or straightens in one convenient step. The results and gushing fan testimonials (and tutorials) are all over TikTok making a compelling case for Santa to stick one of these under the tree. Airwrap on and Any burgeoning makeup artist or at-home DIY stylists will treasure this collection of thoughtfully-designed make-up brushes. Artis, which is the Latin word for "skill, method, technique," created a line of brushes for $279 that are carefully crafted to make applying make-up easier, allowing for a lighter touch and a more natural look. Plus they are fun and easy to use and result in close-up ready looks. Elite 5 Brush Set on and Thanks to office chairs, long commutes, slouching phone usage, overly-enthusiastic gym time, and too-heavy backpacks, tote bags, and grocery hauls, everyone in this modern world probably needs a massage. While a masseuse is ideal, the Theragun Pro Plus, $599, is the next best option. Treat sore muscles, tight backs, and tech neck at home while watching TV and thinking about what you’ve done. Theragun Pro Plus on on This eyeliner kit will impress any influencer in training and give makeup aficionados all the tools they need for a glamorous smokey eye. This sleek kit, available for $176, includes four of Victoria Beckham’s cult favorite eyeliners and a sharpener to keep them on point, as well as a mascara that lasts all day. The combination is a perfectly luxe stocking stuffer. Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Jewel Liner Kit on If you’re looking for a hostess gift for the host that has everything, this $100 scent diffuser from cult brand Santa Maria Novella fits the bill. The elegant design allows the delicate scent of herbs, flowers, and leaves reminiscent of a Tuscan afternoon to drift through a room. Bring this instead of flowers and you’ll undoubtedly be invited back. Room Scent Diffuser on If the coffee fanatic in your house is ready to step up from Nespresso and eager to learn the art and craft of coffee making, this machine will do the trick nicely. The barista’s go-to espresso machine has been re-designed and shrunken for home use and will look elegant on any countertop. These professional-grade machines, available for $5,900, are handmade in Florence, so order early. Linea Mini Home Espresso Machine on If you’re looking for a memorable and unique gift, consider the panettone from Olivieri 1882. Their take on the traditional Italian Christmas bread is made with a light sourdough that is fermented for four days, dotted with vanilla, and filled with raisins and candied oranges. There are plenty of other flavor options, too, starting at $99, including pumpkin and dark chocolate and apricot and salted caramel. Fancy Panettone on Forget the five lords aleaping and the partridge in the pear tree and instead give the people what they want—12 days of caviar, one variety for each day of Christmas. The elite advent calendar, available for $750, includes two mother of pearl tasting spoons and an array of fish eggs, including golden osetra, Siberian sturgeon, salmon roe, and may more. Perfect for a fish fanatic or anyone looking to upgrade brunch. 12 Days of Caviar on Mahjong, the game in which players match or sequence sets of tiles, has been around and has been a fixture in the Chinese diaspora for generations, but we’re going to call it now: 2025 is going to be the year everyone starts playing mahjong. Mahjong (or mahjong or mah-jongg) is a bit like the card game rummy; it is competitive, but also easy enough for the whole family. This gorgeous set, available for $339, lets players choose between playing the American or Chinese version of the game. MahJong Sets on and In a crowded dairy aisle, Jeni’s has earned a reputation as one of the best ice creams around. Their unique flavors, extra creamy texture, and high butterfat content have made them the go-to flavor for anyone screaming for ice cream. A subscription to their pint of the month club, which starts at $199 for three months, delivers four pints once a month and will go a long way to satisfying any sweet tooth. Pint of the Month on This $299 Japanese toaster is a cult favorite for chefs and home cooks in the know for its ability to simultaneously toast and steam. While this sounds like a recipe for soggy baked goods, instead it revives stale bread, turns freezer burnt croissants into fresh breakfast treats, makes leftover pizza taste new, and turns plain old toast into a little treat. The appliance is a bit of a countertop revolution for any carb lover. The Toaster on on If the photographer in your life is ready to graduate from phone photography or point-and-shoot pics to professional levels, this camera, available for $6,295, will more than do the trick. This fixed-lens, autofocusing camera is designed for pros, but is easy enough for amateurs eager to learn more about the art and craft of photography. Leica Q3 Digital Camera on Give the tastemaker in your life a tiny tour of the offerings of Flamingo Estate, the Los Angeles- lifestyle brand that counts Oprah and Martha Stewart as fans. This set, available for $179, serves as an introduction to the company’s garden-forward products with just a touch of California mystique. Tucked into an Instagram-worthy box is their heritage olive oil with olives from their garden, a rosemary and clary sage body wash, and a hand-poured sage-scented candle. The Mini Garden Tour on Mystery lovers will love receiving a membership to the Crime Club. Each month, staff at Tribeca’s beloved Mysterious Bookshop will pick one signed first edition mystery hardcover to send out to members. Fittingly each selection will be a mystery, but one that will be sure to thrill readers and book collectors alike. Crime Club from Anyone existing in the Apple universe would be thrilled to find these noise-canceling headphones under the tree. Everything from Zoom meetings to Linkin Park albums to a favorite true crime podcast sounds crystal clear on these over-ear headphones, available for $549. Plus, they seamlessly integrate into the Apple universe effortlessly connecting to iPhones and iPads and MacBooks and have Apple’s sleek minimalist design. AirPods Max on and Music fans and vinylheads will appreciate this subscription service that delivers fresh tunes each month, starting at $279 for a six-month membership. Choose between hip-hop; jazz, blues, funk or soul; or musical essentials that span genre and Vinyl Me Please will serve up something new, interesting, fun and always on vinyl. Six Month Membership on Rimowa set the bar for luxury travel accessories and continues to live up to its reputation. There is no better suitcase, available for $1,650 for road warriors, airline million milers, and would-be travel influencers. Its stylish, Instagram-ready looks aside, it’s also just a really good, nearly-indestructible suitcase with enough space for a long weekend trip. Cabin Twist Suitcase on This Danish tech company has built a reputation on combining sleek, stylish design with some of the best audio in the game. This speaker, available for $1,299, is also portable, which means backyard barbecues, tailgates, and picnics will have a pitch-perfect soundtrack with a sound sure to satisfy even the most critical of ears. Beosound A5 on and College grads, newlyweds, first-time renters, and anyone looking for a kitchen refresh will appreciate this $275 pots and pans set from Great Jones, the internet’s favorite kitchenware company. This four-piece set includes all the basics, including a soup or pasta pot, a sauce pan, and two frying pans in different sizes. They are all easy to cook with, easy to clean, and easy to look at, making them a great present. Precious Metals Set on Giving a fresh flower subscription makes Christmas cheer spread all throughout the year. Once a month a fresh bouquet will show up to brighten the day (and house or office) of the recipient. Choose between three sizes, starting at $48 per order, and Bouqs will deliver a flower arrangement that will make nearly anyone smile and maybe whistle, “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”. Flower Subscription on The latest generation of this popular laser projector, available for $2,700 may end up as one of the best of 2024. This projector has minimalist good looks, a decent price, and produces a crisp, bright picture that works in nearly any light condition, an important and strangely rare trait for a projector. This connects via Bluetooth, HDMI, or wifi making it go from box to blockbuster viewing a snap. XGIMI Laser Projector on Le Creuset’s Dutch oven is a kitchen classic, but that means most ardent cooks already have one. This bread oven, available for $240, though is a useful addition to any kitchen arsenal, particularly for people who love to have fresh bread in the house. The cast-iron oven is designed to heat to a high temperature while also trapping and circulating steam, which will all go to helping create a crisp crust, soft interior, and excellent flavor. Bread Oven on and If food is your love language or you need something for someone who has everything, a Goldbelly subscription is a great option. Each month, the folks at the food delivery company pick a favorite product like barbecue from Kansas City, lobster rolls from Maine, Muffuletta from New Orleans, or world-renowned ice cream. Each box will contain enough treats to feed four people as long as they’re willing to share. Subscriptions start at $249.50 for three months and go up to $899.95 for 12 months. Monthly Food Subscription on Receiving a KitchenAid stand mixer is a rite of passage for cooks, bakers, homeowners, and anyone with a kitchen to fill and a drive to whip up something delicious. The mixer, available for $479, is incredibly useful and versatile making everything from cakes to pizza dough to fresh pasta to extruding sausage. That versatility makes it one of the rare kitchen appliances that is worth the loss of counter space. KitchenAid Artisan Mixer on
Quietly and quickly, the Gophers football program received a commitment from Georgia Tech transfer quarterback Zach Pyron on Wednesday. With senior starter Max Brosmer done after the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, Minnesota sought a QB with collegiate experience via the NCAA transfer portal and behind the scenes zeroed in on Pyron when the portal opened on Monday. While other transfer targets have had their upcoming visits reported, Pyron came into the U without fanfare this week. Pyron has played in 19 career games for the Yellow Jackets, completing 88 of 155 passes (57%) for 995 yards with five touchdowns and seven interceptions over three seasons. This fall, he completed 35 of 65 passes (53%) for 409 yards, two touchdowns and three picks, adding 36 carries for 115 yards and four rushing TDs. The Gophers are high on to-be redshirt freshman Drake Lindsey, but with only limited experience — two games played late in blowout wins — the U felt the need to have another option with experience in the QB room. Pylon will be given an opportunity to compete for the job along with Lindsey, redshirt sophomore Dylan Wittke, who transferred to the U from Virginia Tech last winter, and incoming true freshman QB Jackson Kollock. Max Shikenjanski and Jeremiah Finaly are also on the depth chart. “I really like our quarterback room,” Gophers head coach Fleck said Sunday. “... Drake has made huge strides from the moment he got here to where he is now. Then we will add another player. “It always starts with: Can the quarterback lead the team? That doesn’t matter if you are the first guy or the second guy, third guy or fourth guy, fifth guy. We want to have five quarterbacks on our roster. ... Every single one of them has to have the intangibles of leading the entire football team.” Fleck then mentioned a player’s ability to run the offense in its certain way, which includes processing information at the line of scrimmage, showing accuracy and arm strength, and an everyday ability to be coached and develop as a player. “Lot of things go into it,” he said. Pyron, who is listed at 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, was considered a four-star prospect and the 18th best quarterback coming out of Pinson (Ala.) Valley High School. He won three state championships in four seasons and was included in the Elite 11 quarterback competitions in 2021. Related Articles
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