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Ryan Detert, CEO of Influential, Donates $1 Million to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Launching the Changemaker Challenge

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The Challenge aims to Rally the Advertising and Media Industry to Change the Odds for the Next Generation

TAMPA, Fla., Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ryan Detert, CEO of Influential, the world’s largest influencer marketing company, is making a powerful impact on the future of young people across the nation. Following the incredible support of his late mentor, Clayton Roth, who served as his “Big Brother” for 30 years, Detert is giving back in a big way with a $1 million donation, in honor of Clayton, to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The gift marks the launch of the “Changemakers Challenge,” a bold initiative aimed at raising $5 million for the organization and connecting young people with life-changing mentorship opportunities.

The Changemakers Challenge, co-led by Detert and Michael Kassan, CEO of 3C Ventures, is calling upon industry leaders, agencies, and professionals across the media, marketing, and advertising sectors to join forces and amplify the reach of youth mentorship. The initiative kicks off on Giving Tuesday, December 3, with a goal of raising an additional $4 million, which will fund 50,000 life-changing mentor-mentee matches nationwide.

“As someone who was deeply impacted by mentorship growing up, I know firsthand how life-changing the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters can be,” said Detert. “I was lucky enough to have a mentor who helped guide me through some of my most challenging years. His belief in me gave me the confidence to chase my dreams and reach goals I never thought possible. The guidance I received shaped the person I am today, and I want to give back to make sure more young people have the same opportunity.”

Detert’s personal experience with mentorship fuels his passion for ensuring that all children have access to the support, encouragement, and guidance that can help them succeed. Through this generous donation, he hopes to ignite a ripple effect, encouraging others to step up and invest in the next generation of leaders.

“As a fellow board member and friend, Ryan is an inspiration, and his testimony moved me just like many of the youth impacted by Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Kassan. “By teaming up with Ryan, we want to harness the power of the creative community to change the odds for young people, just as Clayton did for Ryan. I’m confident we can create an even bigger impact and strengthen the creative talent pipeline for the next generation.”

In addition to monetary donations, the Changemakers Challenge also aims to secure $100 million in in-kind media, ensuring that the stories and importance of mentorship reach broader audiences across platforms. These efforts will help increase visibility, relevance, and long-term support for Big Brothers Big Sisters, ultimately driving engagement from corporate partners, consumers, and volunteers.

The Changemakers Challenge is part of Brothers Big Sisters’ year-long celebration of the organization’s 120th anniversary and long-standing history in changing lives by changing the odds for millions of youth. To kick off the challenge, Detert and Kassan will host a special “Changemaker Bruncheon” during Super Bowl week at NFL House, inviting companies and individuals to learn more about the mission, make their pledge, and announce commitments to becoming a Changemaker. The challenge will culminate in NYC at BBBSA’s Big Benefit event being held in September 2025, an opportunity to showcase the industry’s transformational support for youth mentorship.

“Ryan’s extraordinary gift signifies how mentorship is a powerful tool in breaking down barriers and creating pathways for success, particularly in industries like media, marketing, and advertising. By empowering young people with the guidance of caring mentors, we’re shaping the future talent pipeline and ensuring that these young individuals can become the leaders of tomorrow,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “We are incredibly grateful for Ryan and Michael’s leadership with the Changemaker Challenge. Their unwavering support is not only a testament to their commitment to changing the odds for young people, but also to the power of mentorship in transforming lives.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the country. The organization’s mentorship model has proven to help young people build confidence, improve academic performance, and achieve their personal and professional goals.

For more information on how to participate in the Changemakers Challenge and donate, visit www.bbbsa.org.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America 

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization in the United States. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters has over 230 local agencies serving more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states. For more information, visit: www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ryan-detert-ceo-of-influential-donates-1-million-to-big-brothers-big-sisters-of-america-launching-the-changemaker-challenge-302352039.html

SOURCE Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

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Fox ESS Celebrates Strong Momentum with Integrated Solar Storage & Charging Solutions at Smart Energy 2026

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May 9, 2026

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SYDNEY, May 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fox ESS, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, attended Smart Energy 2026 during 6-7 May as a platinum sponsor. At the event, Fox ESS showcased its next-generation approach to solar storage and EV charging solution, delivering a seamless, future-ready energy experience for homeowners and installers across Australia.

Integrated Solutions Tailored for Aussie Homes

At Smart Energy 2026, Fox ESS highlighted its storage-to-charging solution, designed to make everyday energy use more convenient for local residents. With performance-led products and proven market traction, Fox ESS is set to play its part in building a more resilient energy future for Australia.

Battery Systems

Fox ESS continues to build momentum in the battery market. Sunwiz, an Australian solar consultancy, recently reported that Fox ESS ranked No.1 in March for installation capacity. And the company also revealed it has installed more than 25,000 systems in April. During the exhibition, Sunwiz presented Fox ESS with an award, recognising the company as Top Solar Company for Fastest Growing Battery.

CQ7 V6+ High Voltage Battery (42kWh and above)
Building on Fox ESS’ proven strengths, compact design and high capacity, CQ7 V6+ is well suited to medium-sized households and ensure the free use of electricity and maximize the self-consumption.EQ4800 High Voltage Battery (28kWh)
A reliable choice for smaller households, designed for efficient day-to-day energy storage.

Alongside its battery range, Fox ESS showcased all-in-one systems, including Stackable AIO and EVO, designed to simplify installation while maintaining a high standard of design and presentation.

Inverters

Fox ESS offers a range of inverters to suit local requirements, supported by up to 200% PV oversizing and a 10-year product warranty.

Single-phase: H1‑G2 (3–6kW); KH series (7–10.5kW)Three-phase: H3 Smart (5–15kW); H3 Pro (15–29.9kW); H3 Plus (50–125kW)

EV Chargers

With EV adoption accelerating, Fox ESS also offers EV charging solutions with solar linkage, designed to work across its inverter portfolio. The chargers provide robust, smart energy management, including dynamic load balancing to help protect home circuits.

A Series (7.3kW / 11kW / 22kW): IP65 and IK08 protection, OCPP-compliant.L Series (7.3kW / 11kW): straightforward installation with multiple colour options.

Big Battery Still Takes Centre Stage

As the Cheaper Home Battery Program moves into a new phase under an updated rebate policy, interest in larger battery systems continues to grow, particularly as more households consider EV upgrades amid rising fuel costs. More EVs typically mean households need greater energy availability, making higher-capacity storage an increasingly attractive option.

Looking ahead, from 1 July 2026, the Australian Government’s Solar Sharer Offer (SSO) will provide eligible households with three hours of free daily electricity to align with peak solar generation. Households with larger batteries will be well placed to make the most of this opportunity.

Fox ESS is also working with local VPP partners, including Amber Electric and Origin Loop VPP, helping homeowners unlock maximum value while supporting greater grid stability.

Maimai Comes Alive at the Exhibition

Visitors to the Fox ESS stand experienced a full programme of brand activations across the event. Following the online announcement, Sydney served as Maimai’s first physical stop, bringing the community together for face-to-face engagement. Attendees queued to take photos with the brand’s friendly and recognisable mascot.

Long-Term Commitment to Australia

Fox ESS has opened two local offices in Melbourne and Sydney, with more than 30 dedicated specialists supporting local customer needs. The company is also looking to play a wider role in Australia’s energy transition.

Notably, Ian Thorpe made his first in-person appearance at Fox Night, where he presented partners with awards. At the event party, Fox ESS also hosted a battery installation challenge, featuring eight rounds of competition, with the final winners receiving a range of prizes.

“We’re delighted to see such a strong result following the rollout of local policy. With nearly 400,000 Australian households now installing batteries, Fox ESS has played a key role, but this is only the beginning. We’re committed to keeping momentum and helping make a smarter, more reliable energy future a reality for more homes.” said Brooks Richard Geng, APAC & Middle East Managing Director, Fox ESS.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/fox-ess-celebrates-strong-momentum-with-integrated-solar-storage–charging-solutions-at-smart-energy-2026-302767429.html

SOURCE Fox ESS

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TELUS announces election of directors

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1 hour ago

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May 9, 2026

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VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2026 /CNW/ – TELUS Corporation (TELUS) (TSX: T) (NYSE: TU) announced today that the nominees listed in TELUS’ 2026 information circular were elected as directors of TELUS. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors held at TELUS’ annual meeting on May 8, 2026 (the Meeting) are set out below.

Each of the following 14 nominees proposed by management was elected as a director of TELUS:

Nominee

Votes For  

% Votes For  

Votes Withheld  

% Votes Withheld 

Raymond T. Chan

592,322,965

97.91

12,667,245

2.09

Hazel Claxton

599,400,953

99.08

5,589,256

0.92

Lisa De Wilde

583,361,107

96.42

21,629,103

3.58

Victor Dodig

593,352,117

98.08

11,638,092

1.92

Darren Entwistle

586,791,970

96.99

18,198,239

3.01

Thomas Flynn

596,684,564

98.63

8,305,646

1.37

Mary Jo Haddad

577,841,419

95.51

27,148,791

4.49

Martha Hall Findlay     

595,075,545

98.36

9,914,665

1.64

Christine Magee

597,282,615

98.73

7,707,595

1.27

John Manley

579,845,538

95.84

25,144,672

4.16

David Mowat

592,867,380

98.00

12,122,830

2.00

Marc Parent

577,961,748

95.53

27,028,461

4.47

Denise Pickett

596,211,746

98.55

8,778,464

1.45

W. Sean Willy

595,898,668

98.50

9,091,541

1.50

Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Meeting will be published shortly on telus.com/agm, and filed with the Canadian and U.S. securities regulators.

About TELUS

TELUS (TSX: T, NYSE: TU) is a world-leading communications technology company operating in more than 45 countries and generating over $20 billion in annual revenue with more than 21 million customer connections through our advanced suite of broadband services for consumers, businesses and the public sector. We are committed to leveraging our technology to enable remarkable human outcomes. TELUS is passionate about putting our customers and communities first, leading the way globally in client service excellence and social capitalism. TELUS Health is enhancing approximately 170 million lives across 200 countries and territories through innovative preventive medicine and well-being technologies. TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods utilizes digital technologies and data insights to optimize the connection between producers and consumers. TELUS Digital specializes in digital customer experiences and future-focused digital transformations that deliver value for their global clients. Guided by our enduring ‘give where we live’ philosophy, TELUS continues to invest in initiatives that support education, health and community well-being. In 2023, we launched the TELUS Student Bursary, which strives to ensure that every young person in Canada who wants a postsecondary education has the opportunity to pursue one. To date, the program has distributed over $6 million in bursaries to 2,000 students and counting. Since 2000, TELUS, our team members and retirees have contributed $1.85 billion in cash, in-kind contributions, time and programs, including 2.5 million days of service–earning TELUS the distinction of the world’s most giving company.

For more information, visit telus.com or follow @Darren_Entwistle on Instagram.

For more information, please contact:

Jacinthe Beaulieu
TELUS Media Relations
Jacinthe.Beaulieu@telus.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/telus-announces-election-of-directors-302767404.html

SOURCE TELUS Communications Inc.

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CTK BIO SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN NGEN’S $62.7M ADVANCED MANUFACTURING INITIATIVE

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May 9, 2026

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VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2026 /CNW/ – CTK Bio Canada today announced its selection as a participant in a Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen)-supported advanced manufacturing project, part of a $62.7 million national initiative backing 14 high-impact projects across Canada.

The initiative, recently announced by NGen, represents one of Canada’s most significant investments in advanced manufacturing, supporting collaborations between leading industry and technology partners to accelerate commercialization and strengthen global competitiveness. NGen’s project selection process is highly competitive, prioritizing initiatives with strong technical innovation, commercialization potential, and industry impact.

CTK Bio will contribute to the project titled “Streamlining Cosmetics Packaging with AI Powered Materials Informatics,” which uses artificial intelligence to guide the formulation and validation of packaging materials, ensuring compatibility with cosmetic products while meeting performance and regulatory requirements.

ADVANCING AI-DRIVEN MATERIALS INNOVATION
Through this project, CTK Bio is advancing an AI-powered materials informatics approach that improves how packaging materials are formulated, validated, and scaled for cosmetic applications.

By shifting from traditional trial-and-error methods to predictive, data-driven formulation, CTK Bio aims to:

Increase the success rate of new material developmentReduce formulation and validation timelinesLower development costsAccelerate commercialization of innovative and sustainable packaging solutions

EXECUTIVE COMMENTARY
JK Park, CEO
“This project unlocks synergies between CTK Bio and CTK Clip, where we already have an established global presence in the cosmetics market. By combining advanced materials innovation with existing market access, we can accelerate the commercialization of next-generation packaging solutions.”

ABOUT CTK BIO
CTK Bio Canada is focused on advancing next-generation biomaterials and manufacturing technologies, developing innovative solutions that enable more efficient, sustainable, and scalable production across global industries.

ABOUT NGEN
Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen) is the industry-led organization spearheading Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing. NGen brings together industry, academia, and technology partners to drive innovation, accelerate commercialization, and enhance Canada’s global competitiveness.

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctkbiocanada
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ctkbiocanada
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ctk-bio-canada

For more information, visit www.ctkbio.com or call (604) 372-4200.

SOURCE CTK Bio

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