Meghna Gulzar LAUNCHES 101 Haiku By Dinesh Raheja

Om Books International in association with Crossword Bookstores celebrated the launch of 101 Haiku on 26^th July 2018 at Crosswords, Kemps Corner, Mumbai. The stunning tome was launched by Director Meghna Gulzar (Director Talwaar & Raazi)

On the occasion author Dinesh Raheja shared his experience of putting together the book with Meghna Gulzar wherein she also shared with audience her success story in form of haiku(short form of poetry) 

Present on the occasion were Sasha Agha, Tanuj Virwani, Rati Agnihotri amongst others.

About the book

This is the maiden venture in the world of Haiku for veteran author, Dinesh Raheja, who has five books to his credit so far. A popular Japanese form of poetry, Haiku juxtaposes two images to provoke thought or induce a smile or fill your senses with awe and wonder at the inherent beauty in nature. It’s essentially a three-line seduction into the world of aesthetics and art.

About the author

Dinesh Raheja, author, journalist, screenplay writer and poet for the last 34 years, wrote his first Hindi poem Buddhapa at the age of 12 when he saw his ageing aunt becoming breathless while climbing a flight of stairs. The poem came to him like a spontaneous burst of thought, as does most of his poetry. His poems in Hindi and English have been published in Mid-day, The Daily Hindi Milap and The New Indian Express. Raheja has authored five books so far: The 100 Luminaries of Hindi Cinema, Indian Cinema: The Bollywood Saga, Sahib Bibi aur Ghulam: The Original Screenplay, Chaudhvin Ka Chand: The Original Screenplay and Kaagaz Ke Phool: The Original Screenplay. This is Raheja’s first attempt at haiku. He is a huge admirer of Japanese haiku master, Matsuo Basho (1644–1694

President of India to grace screening of ‘Chalo Jeete Hain’

The 32-minutes film is inspired from early life of PM Narendra Modi 

The makers of the short film “Chalo Jeete Hain”( 32 minutes) take immense pleasure in announcing that the Honourable President of India, will be attending a special screening of the film on Tuesday, 24th July at 6 pm at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

This heartwarming film with a strong social message is inspired from the early life of the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. It’s the story of a young Naru who is intrigued by Swami Vivekananda’s words, “ Wahi jeete hain jo doosron ke liye jeete hain” and this inspires him to adopt this philosophy very early in his life.

This screening of the film which is an inspiration for all generations, will be attended by ministers, educationalist, national thought leaders, social workers, and national sports persons.

The film which aims to initiate a big social initiative is produced by Mahaveer Jain and Bhushan Kumar, Directed by Mangesh Hadawale and presented by Aanand L Rai and Mahaveer Jain.

Neymar Jr’s Five World Finals: India’s Joga Bonito gains valuable experience with historic wins against Chile & Luxembourg

~After 178 matches and 589 goals, Mexico (Mixed) and Brazil (Female) came out on top at the Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr ~

~ Striker lines up against Neymar Jr’s Five 2018 world champions Mexico and Brazil~

India, 23rd July 2018: Neymar Jr took to the field for the first time this season as the two strongest five-a-side football teams in the world were crowned at the Neymar Jr’s Five World Final in Praia Grande, Brazil. After 178 matches and 589 goals, Mexico (Mixed) and Brazil (Female) came out on top at the Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr in the neighbourhood where the Brazilian grew up. Neymar Jr’s Five is the largest five-a-side football tournament in the world, organised by energy drink giant Red Bull.

Neymar Jr’s Five 2018 National Champions, Joga Bonito Mumbai represented India in Brazil in the World finals, and gained valuable experience with historic wins against Chile & Luxembourge to qualify for the knock out rounds. Not only India wins a match at Neymar Jr’s Five World finals for the first time but also qualifies for the round of 32 (knock out rounds). Team India (Anthony Machado, Johnson Dsilva, Mervin Stephen, Preetam Mahadik, Daniel Fernandes, Scott Dsouza and Pratik Kadam) convincingly outplayed Chile & Luxembourg 5-0 in Group J to qualify for the knock out rounds to face Colombia. India gave a tough fight to Colombia but fell short by the golen goal, leading the latter to a win 2-1 and qualifying for the round of 16. Colombia beat Australia & Brazil in Round 16 and Quarter Finals respectively to face Argentina in the semi-finals. Replay of all the matches and results - www.neymarjrsfive.com

Team Joga Bonito Mumbai, India Captain Daniel Fernandes said, “It is so awesome to be in Brazil and respresent India, a country of crores of people and from 2809 teams emerge as Neymar Jr’s Five 2018 National Champions. The level here is extremely high. It’s a 10 minutes game, the ball doesn’t go out and you need to play continuously, so a lot energy you need to put in along with a strong game plan. 10 years back when we started our club we had decided to play in Brazil someday beacause our team’s name as you know is Joga Bonito which is representative of Brazil and thanks to Red Bull, this is where we have come now. We are so elated that we beat a strong team like chile and gave a tough fight to Colombia who were eventual semi-finalists. Our dream of seeing our role model Neymar Jr. so close in person has come true.”

Action and Interview Daniel Fernandes (Team: Joga Bonito Mumbai, IND) - https://www.redbullcontentpool.com/international/AP-1WB8BTMMW1W11

Over 125,000 players signed up for a qualifier in this year's competition as elite five-a-side players battled it out in 62 countries across six continents. Mexico won all nine games they played, including a 5-2 win over Argentina in the final, to land the title in the mixed competition. The honour of being the first ever female world champions went to the home nation Brazil, who went unbeaten throughout the tournament and narrowly overcame Italy 1-0 in a final which had to be settled by a 1v1 ‘golden goal’.  Both world champion teams will get an exclusive behind the scenes trip to visit Neymar Jr at Paris Saint-Germain. Deportivo Mago (Mexico) and Resenha 013 (Brazil) join Tao United from Romania (2017) and Anjos Da Bola from Brazil (2016) as winners of the prestigious tournament, organised by Red Bull.

Neymar Jr watched the semi-finals and finals from the stands with friends and family, before stepping onto the field with his own special team to face the world champions in two memorable matches. A little over a week since his season ended in Russia, the Paris Saint-Germain star laced up his boots once again to score his first goals of the new campaign. Close friend, fellow Brazilian, and PSG teammate Dani Alves also joined Neymar Jr in attending the event as he continues his recovery from a knee injury.

He said, “It makes me really proud and gives me an amazing happiness to bring all these countries, with different cultures, to know not only Brazil but also the Instituto and the area where I was raised. It felt really good to be at home after a lot of suffering. It was my first game after the World Cup and I am really happy to be here. I watched a lot of games and I am happy to see the competition growing, with a lot of teams taking part. Football is for everyone of all ages and for everyone that loves it. To make a championship that highlights that makes me really happy.”

Friendly match 1 - Neymar Jr´s Team vs. world champions (Mexico): https://www.redbullcontentpool.com/international/AP-1WBPY8YEH1W11

Friendly match 2 - Neymar Jr´s Five vs. women’s world champions (Brazil): https://www.redbullcontentpool.com/international/AP-1WBPY8YEH1W11.

Neymar Jr’s Five action Clip which Includes Neymar scoring goals in the friendly matches against the 2 World Champions - https://www.redbullcontentpool.com/international/AP-1WBVFW7DH2111

Full interview after the Neymar Jr’s Five World Final in Brazil - https://www.redbullcontentpool.com/international/AP-1WBJ8NZTD1W11

About Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr
The location of the World Final, Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr, is a private, non-profit association dedicated to social causes, set up by Neymar Jr and his family. It is located in Jardim Glória, in Praia Grande, where Neymar Jr spent much of his childhood. The Institute is an 8,400m2 education and sporting complex catering for 2,470 underprivileged children aged 7-14 and their families. 

Competing Countries
Albania, Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Cyprus, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Georgia, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Mauritius, Republic of Moldova, Mexico, Namibia, Northern Ireland, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA 

Follow Neymar Jr's Five

Follow Neymar Jr's Five on Facebook (facebook.com/neymarjrsfive), Instagram (instagram.com/neymarjrsfive) and via the website (www.neymarjrsfive.com).

Thomas Cook India inks long term strategic partnership with Seoul Tourism

Mumbai, July 23, 2018: In a focused initiative to tap into the growing Indian outbound travel market Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.,India’s leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company and Seoul Tourism have entered into a 3 year strategic agreement. As a part of this three year plan, both parties will focus on a multi-pronged engagement programme that includes product development and destination promotions to showcase Seoul as a vibrant leisure destination- across a diversity of Indian traveller segments including, families, millennials, honeymooners, culture seekers, women travellers, etc.

Thomas Cook India’s internal data reveals that Seoul has been witnessing increasing interest with a growth of over 20% from India’s outbound travellers. The new age Indian traveller is keen to explore offbeat destinations and indulge in unique experiences, and with increased flight connectivity, Seoul  holds significant potential for the Indian market.  From its cosmopolitan vibe and heady night life and buzzing night markets of Dongdaemun and Namdaemun, from World Heritage–listed sites such as the Jongmyo Shrine, the magnificent Seoul City Wall, Buddhist temples, palaces and pagodas to graceful hanoks (traditional wooden homes), Seoul is a fascinating mix of heritage, culture, cuisine, technology and cutting-edge design. It is also renowned as a shopping destination, a hub for gaming enthusiasts and for its rejuvenating sauna and spa wellness in a traditional jjimjilbang.

Mr. Abraham Alapatt, President & Group Head - Marketing, Service Quality, Value Added Services & Innovation, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., said, “In a continued effort to bring new destinations and experiences to the Indian outbound travellers, we are delighted to partner with Seoul Tourism to promote the beautiful and culturally rich global city. Fashion and technology-forward but equally rich in culture and heritage, Seoul is a vibrant amalgamation of architecture, cutting-edge design, technology, cuisine and the outdoors. It also attracts both spa and gaming enthusiasts from across the world.”

He added, “For Indian outbound travellers, South Korea remains a secret that is waiting to be discovered. Our research indicates that in the new age of travel, Indian travellers are displaying keen interest in new destinations, unique local experiences and our strategic partnership with Seoul gives us the opportunity to create a vibrant product for Seoul as a destination in itself, equally as a gateway to South Korea.”

Mr Ahn Joon Ho, Director General, Seoul Tourism & Sports Bureau, said, “We are very pleased to have a chance for a mutual long term partnership with Thomas Cook India in order to develop and promote Seoul as one of the top travel destinations for Indian tourists. We hope that more Indian tourists visit Seoul through Thomas Cook India and we will make sure that all visitors have an enjoyable and unforgettable memory in Seoul.”

Union Bank of India Wins CIMSME Award

Mumbai – July 20, 2018: Union Bank of India was today awarded “Best Bank for Promotional Scheme Award - Runner up in Large Category” instituted by Chamber of Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (CIMSME), New Delhi.

    

The above Award was received at the hands of Hon’ble Minister of State for MSME, Shri Giriraj Singh, by Shri R.K.Verma, Executive Director ,Union Bank Of India & Shri.P.S.Rajan, General Manager (MSME), Union Bank of India.

Union Bank of India has been recognized for the various promotional schemes launched by the Bank for the growth of MSME in India.

SUZUKI BURGMAN STREET – THE SPECIAL ONE, LAUNCHED IN INDIA

New Delhi, July 19, 2018: Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. a subsidiary of two-wheeler manufacturer, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan has launched the much-awaitedBURGMAN STREET - a 125cc scooter and the descendant from its legendary BURGMAN portfolio. With a blend of luxurious design drawn from the European scooter design language, and packed with advanced technology; the new BURGMAN STREET from Suzuki’s stable represents the ultimate joy of riding.

Speaking at the launch of BURGMAN STREET, Mr. Satoshi Uchida, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. said, “The BURGMAN STREET creates a new category of scooters in India, focussing on the concept of advanced luxury riding. We are committed to offering premium, innovative and world-class products to customers. By bringing in the unique exposure of Suzuki’s international BURGMAN heritage, we believe that the BURGMAN STREET will be a ‘Special One’ in this segment that will herald a new era of luxury scooter riding in India.”

Mr. Sajeev Rajasekharan, Executive Vice President, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. said, “The 125cc segment in scooters is a very exciting place currently where we also enjoy a strong leadership position. Equipped with exciting features, BURGMAN STREET redefines luxury and comfort in scooter segment in the country. The new BURGMAN STREET will not only help us strengthen our portfolio in this segment, but will also help us cater to a new dimension of scooter customers, who seek luxury and the joy of riding.”

The new BURGMAN STREET packs in a 125cc, 4-stroke air-cooled engine with SOHC 2 valve single-cylinder BS-IV Engine (8.7ps@7000rpm, 10.2Nm@5000 rpm); and is powered by the cutting edge SEP (Suzuki Eco Performance) technology, that offers an optimal fuel-efficiency without compromising on either power or performance. The CBS on new BURGMAN STREET enables operation of both brakes from the left brake lever, helping in maintaining a good balance between front and rear brake forces.

A head-turner like no other, BURGMAN STREET’s luxurious design follows the Suzuki European style design that gives BURGMAN STREET its premium looks. A bright LED headlight, position lamp and tail lamp set-up further reflects its premium aspect, while its integral and cutting edge design improves the functionality by enhancing the visibility at night. The chrome accent on front and rear body parts reflect the premium aspect of the scooter which not only compliments the overall design but also gives it a striking visual presence.

BURGMAN STREET is built for comfortable riding with the flexible foot-position to reduce fatigue and offer best in class riding experience. It is loaded with a multifunction, fully-digital instrument panel with a Digital Clock, Fuel Gauge, Oil Change Indicator and a dual trip meter. The body mounted windscreen adopted from the design of international BURGMAN Series, reduces the wind blast by improving the aerodynamics. The BURGMAN STREET uses a long and comfortable seat, to give a sense of stability and comfort while long distances. The BURGMAN STREET also scores high on utility aspects, with a convenient and secured lid equipped front pocket with standard fitment of DC socket & USB charger as accessory; and an under-seat storage capacity of 21.5L.

The new BURGMAN STREET is available in Metallic Mat Fibroin Gray, Glass sparkle black and Pearl Mirage White, and is priced at INR 68,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

*CBS is a supplemental brake system, please operate both left and right brake levers while riding

Alcon Introduces FreshLook Contact Lenses

Your eyes are first thing people notice about you, and Alcon’s FreshLookcolour contact lenses give your face an instant lift.  Contact lenses are the latest fashion fun accessory to let a woman express herself in a myriad ways.  Just pop in a colour of these colour lenses and enliven any outfit by changing your eye colour to blue, grey, green, pure hazel, amethyst, turquoise or sparkling brown. Of course it helps when the lenses are from a trusted brand, such as Freshlook. One of the largest seller of colour contact lenses globally, come from the eye-care giant Alcon, at the forefront of vision-aiding innovation.

The brand offers you a wide palette of refreshing colors. The colour- blend technology ensures that whatever colour you choose the effect will be elegant and enchanting. So while you up your glamour quotient, you can be assured that you are wearing the safest product and the latest in innovation. Freshlook lenses are also the next frontier of accessorizing, transforming any look with the blink of an eye. Cool, striking eye colours, such as Violet can offset the brighter colours and embellishments of wedding couture. And also throw in a nice, Avant garde twist. Not to mention, this is a creative translation of colour blocking. 

FreshLook one day colour contact lenses are available across India in a box containing 10 lenses with a recommended selling price of Rs.900 per box and FreshLookColour blends monthly disposable colour contact lenses are available in a box containing 2 lenses with a selling price of Rs.995/-

For more information: http://www.freshlookcontacts.com/ 

LG unveils “India’s first TV with Artificial Intelligence”

Launches 25 AI TV models

OLED AI ThinQ provides unmatched TV viewing experience equipped with powerful α(Alpha)9 processor and convenience of artificial intelligence

Mumbai; July 16, 2018: LG Electronics India today launched the much-anticipated range of televisions in India featuring Artificial Intelligence (AI) ThinQ. Designed to bring a new level of convenience, enhanced connectivity and a more immersive TV viewing experiences, the new range includes various models under its OLED, Super UHD, UHD and Smart TV category.

With AI functionality in LG TVs, the consumers can directly speak into the remote to control TV functions and seamlessly discover and play content. These TVs doesn’t only work on fixed voice commands but also understand the intent of query before providing a search result. The TV not only Listens and Answers but Listens, thinks and Answer. Additionally, there are set of 800+ commands which works even without internet connection.

The World’s best-selling OLED brand is now powered by α (Alpha) 9 intelligent processor with which viewers can enjoy accurate colors, more realistic and improved image renderings from virtually any viewing angle. All of this is combined with the on-boarding of Dolby Atmos which provides object-based 360^o surround sound that beautifully captures the movement of every object in a scene. These televisions also support the full palette of HDR, including Dolby Vision, advanced HDR by Technicolor, HDR10 Pro, HLG Pro, creating a true cinematic experience at home.

On the occasion, Younchul Park, Director-Home Entertainment, LG Electronics India, said: “Artificial intelligence is definitely the road ahead for all our future products. AI functionality backed up with extensive research is incorporated in televisions with an aim of delivering a unique and more intuitive experience. As a matter of fact, we have taken a step ahead to implement AI function across our range of smart televisions. At LG our interest is in improving the user lifestyle and convenience. We are launching 25 models of AI today across all segments.

Key intelligent features:

LG’s ThinQ offers an interactive experience in the new smart TV lineup that delivers intelligent voice-activated control and connectivity. With a streamlined setup process, viewers can seamlessly connect to gaming consoles and external sound bars. Other unique features include Mobile Connection Overlay that enables the customers to view both the mobile and television screens simultaneously. Customers can also access Google photos & drive on LG TV with help of cloud photos and videos App. The 2-way Bluetooth feature on these televisions allow users to listen to the TV audio wirelessly on compatible audio device and connect the mobile with LG TV in order to enjoy music.

Perfect picture quality:

LG’s newest α(Alpha)9 intelligent processor provides true-to-life images with incredibly rich colors, sharpness and depth. A core element of the α9 processor is the four-step process of noise reduction that drastically reduces grain and banding noise. The improved color correction algorithm allows for more natural colors by expanding the reference color coordinates seven-fold.

α9 processor is designed to support high frame rate (HFR) for producing smoother and clearer motion images at 120 frames per second for better rendering of fast-action content such as sports and action movies. Because of the new image processor, 2018 LG OLED TVs can display any content at maximum quality for a truly spectacular viewing experience.

LG also unveiled their 2018 range of premium 4k SuperUHDTVs. While continuing with the tried and tested Nano Cell Technology, it has many new additions namely ThinQ AI, α (Alpha) 7 processor, Dolby Atmos and Full Array Dimming.

Maximizing Nano Cell with Full Array Dimming backlight and α (Alpha)7 processor:

By combining Nano Cell, Full array dimming backlighting nd the α (Alpha) 7 processor, LG’s 2018 SUPER UHD TV offers a host of technological advantages including deeper blacks, enhanced image rendering, improved shadow details and accurate color from wide viewing angles.

This year’s SUPER UHD TV with Full array dimming allows for denser backlighting zones throughout the display, contrary to edge-lighting where backlights are positioned on the edges behind the TV panel. LG’s technology improves black levels by independent control of LED light zones, improving shadow details and reducing light bleeding resulting in enhanced contrast and superb picture quality. Nano Cell Display reveals a billion lifelike colors, 64 times richer than conventional TV.

Best possible 4K cinema HDR experience:

2018 OLED and SUPER UHD TVs from LG feature 4K Cinema HDR, which introduces a truly cinematic experience to the home, regardless of the format. The televisions add support for Advanced HDR by Technicolor, building on a legacy of supporting most major HDR formats, from the superior viewing experience of Dolby Vision to HDR10Pro and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). Both 2018 OLED TVs and SUPER UHD TVs come with Dolby Atmos object-based surround sound for the best audio-visual experience possible.

The new range uses the latest webOS, user interface which provides seamless, intuitive navigation with Magic Remote's point, click, scroll and voice commands. With the unique and compelling technological up gradations in the new TV range, the company has paved a new dimension for the field of smart technology. With these features the TV watching experience has been redefined and made more versatile.

LG AI TV is available in OLED, Super UHD, UHD and smart TV segment. The range starts from 32,500/- to 29,49,990/- across sizes starting from 80cm (32) till 195cm (77)

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For more information, please visit www.lg.com/in

NEW FOOD & BEVERAGE AND FASHION BRANDS MAKE INORBIT MALLS THE PERFECT GO-TO-PLACE

A multidimensional shopping and food haven is a dream come true for families and friends who want to spend quality time with each other. Inorbit Malls, one of the pioneers in the shopping mall business have their malls located in Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Vadodara. They offer visitors not only a variety of brands but also an unmatched shopping experience with latest fashion brands as well as a culinary treat by getting on board much-loved food brands. Inorbit mall Malad has recently opened food joints like Burger King and 99 Pancakes. Inorbit Bangalore too has recently opened Squeeze – The Juice bar. Apart from these brands Inorbit will soon be adding some excitement in the food category with brands like Tea Villa Café at Malad, Taco Bell at Hyderabad and HQ Whitefield at Bangalore.

In addition to food, Inorbit is ready to infuse excitement in categories like fashion, footwear and make up too. Recently Inorbit Vadodara has added Singapore’s most loved footwear brand “Heatwave” and leading make-up brand MAC to their portfolio. With soon to arrive brands like Chumbak, Lenskart, INC5 and Skechers, Navi Mumbai shoppers can explore more in fashion at Inorbit Vashi.

Besides enriching its customers with the food and shopping extravaganza, Inorbit also hosts varied activities for people to engage in from all age groups. This summer, Inorbit malls in Malad and Vashi hosted a Shop, Dance and Win challenge where shoppers participated in a dance karaoke challenge and won surprises.

The major highlight of the season, however, was the Jurassic World and LEGO world held at Inorbit Hyderabad and Mumbai, respectively. The Jurassic World saw the mall transformed into the land of dinosaurs with special zones for people to indulge in excavation games, gaming console challenges and selfie points. The LEGO World too was very well received by kids in Mumbai with its larger than life LEGO installations and LEGO building challenges. Inorbit Vashi hosted a Football Mania where on they could shop and win FIFA replica balls. There was also an augmented reality game which was highly thrilling along with live screening of matches and special offers from various food joints at the mall.

About Inorbit Malls:

Inorbit Malls, a group company of the K. Raheja Corp, was initiated with an objective to not just create physical structures but also to influence lifestyles. Inorbit Malls, committed to setting benchmarks in retailing in India, provides an excellent shopping experience for customers. Inorbit Malls combine the knowledge of the Indian consumer and a changing Indian market scenario in locating, designing, planning, and managing retail environments.

Inorbit Malls began their journey by opening its first mall at Malad to the public in early 2004, in Mumbai. Since then, Inorbit has repeated its success with world class malls in Vashi - Navi Mumbai, Cyberabad - Hyderabad, Whitefield – Bangalore & Gorwa Road - Vadodara. The malls have universal class and appeal and seek to provide a one-stop destination for fashion, lifestyle, food, and entertainment leading to an international experience. Inorbit Malls have won more than 70+ awards since inception including India’s Most Trusted Mall by Brand Trust Report 2014 and have been recognized in various national & international forums like IMAGES, Asia Pacific Shopping Centre Awards, ICSC, Asia Consumer Engagement Forum, EFFIEs and ABBYs for their commitment in establishing community connect.  

DISNEY EMPOWERS ASPIRING YOUNG FILMMAKERS TO CREATE GLOBAL #DREAMBIGPRINCESS VIDEO SERIES CELEBRATING FEMALE TRAILBLAZERS

21 young women from 13 countries to produce and direct digital shorts to inspire the next generation and unlock up to a $1M donation from Disney to the United Nations Foundation’s Girl Up

--Series will share the stories of renowned women from a host of industries including

Walt Disney Animation Studios Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee--

-- View launch video here --

Disney today announced a new global project giving 21 talented young women from different corners of the globe the chance to make digital shorts telling the stories of inspiring female role models. The #DreamBigPrincess series will be shared across Disney’s global media platforms as part of a campaign to unlock up to a $1 million donation to Girl Up, an initiative of the UN Foundation.

Each aspiring filmmaker will be paired with an inspirational interview subject spanning a diverse range of professions. The young women will capture the stories of these incredible individuals, along with their advice for achieving success. Academy Award® Winner Jennifer Lee is just one of the talented women who will be featured in the series.

“Using the journeys of characters like Anna, Elsa and Moana to inspire kids to dream big is at the very heart of what all of us at Disney do,” says Jennifer Lee, director/writer of “Disney Frozen” and CCO of Walt Disney Animation Studios. “The #DreamBigPrincess series is the perfect extension of that vision, providing a powerful platform for the next generation of aspiring filmmakers to create content about the women who have inspired them.”

Plans for the series were unveiled at the United Nations Foundation’s Girl Up Leadership Summit in Washington D.C., where the 21 participants took part in a unique workshop to give them the tools they can use to make their digital shorts. Each video will be shot on iPhone X and will be edited using Final Cut Pro X running on MacBook Pro. The aspiring filmmakers will also participate in a unique workshop including hands-on training from Apple technical experts, mentoring sessions with female-led production company Summerjax and creative inspiration from Disney storytelling veterans.

Following the workshop, the young women will embark on their own creative journeys back in their home countries with ongoing mentorship from Disney, Apple and Summerjax, before their videos debut across certain social media in October, helping drive an up to $1 million donation from Disney Worldwide Services to Girl Up.

“Each young #DreamBigPrincess director brings her own unique perspective and experience but what they all share is a passion for storytelling and making a difference in the world,” says Zenia Mucha, Senior Executive Vice President, Communications, The Walt Disney Company, “Our goal is to offer them the right mix of practical skills and creative inspiration to bring their vision to life.”

In addition to supporting young aspiring filmmakers and sharing inspiring stories around the world, the #DreamBigPrincess campaign aims to make a tangible difference for girls who face challenges in achieving their dreams. Through Disney’s collaboration with Girl Up, for each like or share of a video or photo with #DreamBigPrincess on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, Disney Worldwide Services will donate US $1 to Girl Up, in support of girls’ leadership and empowerment (minimum donation: $500,000/maximum donation: $1 million). This charitable activation will kick off on October 10 and run until November 20, 2018. The collaboration exemplifies Disney’s efforts to provide inspiration and opportunity to kids around the world.

“The resources provided by Disney to empower girls and help them learn about the importance of storytelling will give them the confidence they need to achieve their own goals and advocate for others,” comments Girl Up Co- Executive Director, Melissa Kilby. “Last year’s donation from Disney has already allowed us to extend the network of Girl Up Clubs outside the US by more than 50 percent, representing a huge opportunity for thousands of girls to gain the leadership skills that will help achieve future goals.”

This year’s initiative builds on the success of the #DreamBigPrincess Global Photography series, which saw 19 female photographers from 15 countries capture inspiring stories of real world women and girls to encourage kids to reach for their goals. The precedent-setting campaign reached millions of families around the world unlocking a $1 million donation to Girl Up in less than five days. The images from the multi-award-winning campaign were also honored with an exhibition at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

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About Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products

Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that brings the magic of Disney's stories, characters and franchises into the daily lives of families and fans around the world to create memories that last a lifetime. The company's iconic travel and leisure businesses include six resort destinations in the United States, Europe, and Asia; a top-rated cruise line; a luxurious family beach resort in Hawaii; a popular vacation ownership program; and an award-winning guided family adventure business. Disney's global consumer products operations include the world's leading licensing business; the world's largest children's print publisher; Disney Store locations around the world; and the shopDisney e-commerce platform. These experiences are created by Walt Disney Imagineering, the innovative force responsible for overseeing the segment's world-class products and experiences -- from immersive lands to interactive toys, and everything in between.

About Girl Up

Girl Up is a global leadership development initiative, positioning girls to be leaders in the movement for gender equality. With resources in five languages and more than 2,200 Girl Up Clubs in over 100 countries, we’ve trained 40,000 girls of all backgrounds to create tangible change for girls everywhere. Girl Up provides leadership training and gives girls tools to become gender equality advocates and activists. Through our programs, girls broaden their social impact skill set, receive a platform to tell their stories, and apply STEM for social good. Our girl leaders create real policy change at local and national levels, raise millions of dollars to support United Nations programs that reach tens of thousands of girls around the world, and build community-based movements. Girl Up is an initiative of the UN Foundation, working across a global community of partners to achieve gender equality worldwide. Learn more at GirlUp.org.

About the United Nations Foundation

The United Nations Foundation builds public-private partnerships to address the world’s most pressing problems, and broadens support for the United Nations through advocacy and public outreach. Through innovative campaigns and initiatives, the Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to help the UN solve global problems. The Foundation was created in 1998 as a U.S. public charity by entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner and now is supported by philanthropic, corporate, government, and individual donors. Learn more at unfoundation.org.