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Skill Development by The Art of Living Empowers Rural Communities

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2 years ago

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BENGALURU, India, Feb. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In remote border villages where isolation often leads to limited access to resources and opportunities, The Art of Living Social Projects has emerged as a lifeline. With a focus on skill development, the organisation has pioneered transformative projects that build self-sufficiency and foster resilience in some of the most difficult environments. These efforts are deeply inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s profound vision of care and compassion, which seeks to uplift every individual and create a more connected and empowered society.

Turning Challenges into Change: Individual Stories

So far The Art of Living Social Projects has trained 4,20,000+ young adults in livelihood skills in over 500 districts of 23 states and union territories in India.

Consider the case of Jonny Rapo from Daporijo, a small town tucked away in Upper Subansiri, Arunachal Pradesh. Her life changed dramatically when she joined The Art of Living Social Projects’ Skill Training Programme in Bangalore, gaining skills in computer literacy and solar installation. Confident and financially independent, she now teaches these skills to others, proving that one initiative can ripple through a community, uplifting many.

Kamesh Maurya, a determined 19 year old from Baknauri village in Uttar Pradesh, transformed his dreams into reality with The Art of Living’s Mobile Repair Training Program, in partnership with Radico Khaitan. In December 2024; he launched his own mobile repair shop, marking a milestone that not only granted him financial independence but also provided vital support to his family. Kamesh’s story is one of determination, reflecting the significant impact of the right guidance.

From Farming to Financial Independence

By introducing sustainable farming practices and offering training in mushroom farming and small-scale marketing, the organisation has helped villagers, especially women, start small businesses. Self-help groups and newly established bank accounts are bringing financial stability and independence to hundreds of families, transforming not only their income but also their confidence.

Educating the Next Gen: Digital Literacy and Leadership

One of the most striking initiatives is the organisation’s work in education and youth empowerment. Digital literacy programmes are providing young people with critical computer skills, preparing them for a brighter future. The Art of Living’s Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP), which has trained over 2,00,000 young people across rural India, is equipping youth in these villages to lead projects addressing local issues, from addiction to sanitation. 

Building Trust: The Key to Community-Led Development

Sweeping change doesn’t happen overnight. Inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s vision of a connected community, many Art of Living volunteers have dedicated countless hours to building trust with traditionally close-knit tribes. For example, one volunteer biked over 200 kilometers to reach the Mishmi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh where he spent 15 days living among the community, understanding their needs, and building relationships before initiating the targeted project assigned to him. This approach, grounded in trust, is central to The Art of Living Social Projects’ philosophy of community-led development.

Key Strategies Behind the Success of Skill Development Programmes

Mobilisation:
The Art of Living Social Projects connects with school and college dropouts, unemployed individuals, and those uncertain about their career paths, offering the support they need to take the first step toward a better future.

Domain Skill Training:
Training programmes align with government standards, providing hands-on experience and guidance to ensure participants gain the skills needed to succeed in the workforce.

Empowerment Programmes:
Beyond technical skills, the organisation equips individuals with essential soft skills like entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and workplace safety, enhancing employability and fostering self-reliance.

Mentorship:
Ongoing support with placement assistance, career advice, and guidance on self-employment is offered; helping individuals build sustainable careers and lasting income.

Additional Highlights and Partnerships

Rural Development with CMS Info Systems Limited: In Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, 200 youth are being trained in employability skills through the Bridge Training Program and YLTP initiative.Skill Development with Radico Khaitan Phase 2: In Rampur, Uttar Pradesh 315 candidates will be trained in A2E (Access to Employability),Tally, Mobile Repair, Tailoring and Beautician skills.Skill Development with Radico Khaitan Phase 3: In Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, 390 underprivileged youth and 165 women, will receive job certification training to enhance self-employment opportunities.Skill Training for Women with Ashirvad by Aliaxis Pipes: In Karnataka and Maharashtra, 375 women are being equipped with skills to thrive in their communities.Skill Development in Maharashtra with Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya Vikas Kendra (PMGKVK) scheme: To stabilise and accelerate the growth of 511 skill centres, ensuring better outcomes for skilling and employment.Project Shakti with Aquity: This initiative successfully trained 1,500 women in Maharashtra and Karnataka, enabling them with leadership skills and fostering micro-entrepreneurship.Recognition for CSR Excellence: At the SMX CSR Leadership Summit & Awards 3.0 on February 15, 2024, The Art of Living and Schneider Electric India Foundation received the Best CSR Impact Award for Solar Electrification, highlighting their shared commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living Social Projects has resolved to create positive societal impact through transformative initiatives. With a focus on holistic development, the organisation strives to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities alike.

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LEAP Group Relaunches HumanView, a Growth Intelligence System Built to Explain Why Customers Behave the Way They Do

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5 hours ago

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October 24, 2026

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Reimagined from the ground up, HumanView pairs statistical modeling with expert analysts to turn millions of real-world customer signals into business decisions

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LEAP Group today announced the relaunch of HumanView, its growth intelligence service. The new version has been rebuilt from the ground up and now has a dedicated home at leapgroupnetwork.com/humanview.

HumanView analyzes what customers say and do across social platforms, e-commerce sites, review platforms, search behavior and user-generated content, including signals from Reddit, TikTok, YouTube, Meta, Amazon and Walmart+ that general AI tools cannot always access. Because the data reflects unprompted, real-world behavior, it avoids the response bias built into surveys and focus groups.

The service works in three layers. HumanView captures signals at scale, decodes millions of records through validated statistical models such as regression, correlation and clustering, and then relies on experienced analysts to interpret the patterns. Clients receive clear, human-validated insights instead of another dashboard.

“Machines find the patterns. Humans find the point,” said Alan Gilleo, CEO at LEAP Group. “The first version of HumanView showed us how much customers reveal when nobody is asking them questions. This version is built to explain why they act the way they do, and to put those answers in front of everyone making decisions, from product to service to marketing.”

HumanView focuses on three areas:

Growth Intelligence: customer motivations and how people perceive a brand and its competitors

Market and Category Intelligence: product pain points, service friction, unmet needs and competitive gaps

Audience Intelligence: new segments, positioning opportunities and gaps in the market

Every model is designed and validated by data scientists and benchmarked before it informs a recommendation.

To learn more about HumanView, visit leapgroupnetwork.com/humanview.

About LEAP Group
LEAP Group is a boutique marketing agency holding company with offices in Louisville, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Chicago. Guided by the belief that brands should “Market Less. Matter More.,” LEAP gives clients access to specialized experts across its entire network. Learn more at leapgroupnetwork.com.

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SOURCE LEAP Group

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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6 hours ago

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

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SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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6 hours ago

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October 24, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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