World

Young Saudi fencer dreams of representing the Kingdom at the Olympics

For 10-year-old Aya al-Juwaie, her love for fencing started by watching her grandfather partake in the sport. Now, the young Saudi girl who has gone on to win international competitions, dreams of representing the Kingdom on the ultimate global stage – the Olympics.

At the age of six, al-Juwaie joined the MK Fencing Academy in Dubai and began training alongside some of the best fencers in the UAE.

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“When I saw how dedicated she was to the sport I realized Aya could become a professional fencer,” her father Faisal al-Juwaie told Al Arabiya English.

“She has so much passion for the sport and is always eager to learn new techniques. We motivated and encouraged her to pursue fencing, but ultimately it was Aya’s own passion and hard work that led her to where she is today.”

Saudi fencer Aya al-Juwaie at the 2023 Ramadan Tournament in Fujairah. (Supplied)

Al-Juwaie, who trains three times a week in the academy as well as privately, has won over 12 medals, including seven golds, in competitions around the region.

This year alone, the Saudi fencer won gold medals at three major competitions; the 2023 UAE Fencing Championship (Épée under 11) and the 2023 Qatar International Fencing Championship (Épée under 11).

Her most recent win came at the Ramadan Fencing Tournament in Fujairah where the young fencer represented the Al Nassr Saudi Club for the first time.

While any competition may seem daunting to an average 10-year-old, Aya says she thrives under pressure.

“I am always excited and a bit nervous when I participate in competitions, but I am also very focused and determined,” she told Al Arabiya English.

She said she loves the feeling of accomplishment she gets when she successfully executes a move or scores a point.

Saudi fencer Aya al-Juwaie at the 2023 UAE Fencing Championship. (Supplied)

“Compared to other fencers, she's always calm and very focused on winning points. Currently, at the age of 10, she is training with the older age group which gives her a push to learn more,” her father added.

As a registered member of the Saudi Fencing Federation, Aya has also been able to partake in championships in Saudi Arabia.

Joining the Al Nassr club is also expected to accelerate her rise to a professional career in fencing. Under the club, the young girl has been afforded access to just the right resources and support she would need to improve as an athlete, her father said.

The 10-year-old said she will continue to work towards her goal of representing Saudi Arabia at the Olympic Games one day.

“I hope to inspire other young girls to take up the sport and pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem,” she said.

The Kingdom has in recent years invested heavily in sports, its youth, and women – a commitment that comes as part of the country’s Vision 2030 reform plan aimed at diversifying the economy.

From 2015 to 2020, women’s participation in sports in Saudi Arabia increased by about 150 percent – a number that is expected to keep rising as the government continues to pour large sums of money into the sector.

“As a father, I am thrilled to see Saudi Arabia investing in its youth and in sports. I believe that sports can have a positive impact on young kids, as well as teach important life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance,” the young girl’s father told Al Arabiya English.

“I am proud to see my daughter taking the first steps in representing a Saudi club and hope that Saudi Arabia's investment in sports will continue to grow in the future.”

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World

Almarai signs an MoU with the Authority of People with Disabilities to train and employ them.

Almarai Company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Authority of People with
Disabilities to train, qualify and employ persons with disabilities. This came on the sidelines of
the First International Labor Market Conference, organized by the Ministry of Human Resources
and Social Development on December 13 – 14, 2023, at the King Abdulaziz Convention Center
in Riyadh.

The memorandum was signed by the Chief Human Resources Officer of Almarai Company,
Fahad Mohammed Aldrees, and the CEO of the Authority of People with Disabilities, Dr.
Hisham bin Muhammad Al-Haidari.

“This agreement comes within the framework of the company’s social responsibility program, as
Almarai employs more than 500 people with disabilities, which is one of the most suitable work
environments for them.” Fahad Aldrees said. Pointing out that Almarai has the “Silent Line”,
which is one of its production lines that is designated for people with hearing disabilities.

It is worth mentioning that Almarai supports over 300 charity organizations annually across the
kingdom that operate in the field of community development.

World

Central Phuket Shopping Center Prepared Surprises This Christmas & New Year 2024

Central Phuket Shopping Center, the luxury lifestyle landmark o Phuket, invites everyone to celebrate Christmas and New Year 2024 in The Great Celebration 2024 Campaign. Joining hands with global partner ‘The Pokémon Company’, Central Phuket bring over Pokémon, the super cute character popular around the world, for all locals and international fans. The special campaign launch presents a procession of cute ‘Pikachu’ alongside with the giant Christmas tree for the first time in Thailand.
This December, Central Phuket prepared many activities for shoppers when visiting Phuket! Experience the “Surprise of the Day” with free Cotton Candy for our little ones, a sweet and fluffy treat, a special gift from Central Phuket. Bring your kids to enjoy this sweet treat every Saturday and Sunday throughout the month of December. Don’t miss the Christmas Carol that
everyone loves, little Santas spread freshness by singing together in the Christmas Carol activity. Plus, Christmas Live Music, the festival of joy is back! Celebrate Christmas in a luxurious and classy atmosphere, enjoying the music that will bring us joy. Also, there will be Christmas Troop, Santa Claus is coming to town! The Santa troop will spread happiness throughout Central Phuket. Lastly, Cake Workshop, workshop activity with Chef Sebastien’s IRON CHEF Thailand teaching how to make Christmas Vanilla Cake. A special activity for the Christmas season. Moreover, Central Phuket provides special promotion exclusively for international tourists throughout December 23 – January 24 including:

1) Get Free! Tourist welcome discount package valued up to THB 10,000.
2) Receive THB 100 Gift voucher when spending up to THB 2,500 per receipt.
3) Get to buy ‘Happy Holiday Collections’ special price: Pokémon 2-in-1 pillow blanket, tumbler, travel bag set, and keychain. Visit redemption counter for the price.
4) Exclusive for Grab Users get discount code up to 25% off* when traveling to participating Central Shopping Centers.
5) Receive famous Elephant Pants when spending over THB 5,000 in shopping center.
6) Get Free! H&M THB 100 gift voucher when booking any accommodations in Phuket with Agoda. Terms and conditions apply.

Central Phuket is a home of global luxury brands such as Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Ermenegildo Zegna, Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Saint Laurent. Exclusive for this season, Louis Vuitton launches a pop-up store located at Central Phuket. The design is inspired by the story of Damier or Checkerboard, the brand’s signature pattern. This classic pattern was created by Louis
Vuitton and his son Georges Vuitton in 1888 and has always been part of the design of Maison’s iconic items and concepts. Find clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories for men at the Pop-up Store from Louis Vuitton at Central Phuket, 1st floor, from today until 31 March 2024. And with over 500 renowned fashion brands and lifestyle shops ranging from local to international
well-known brands covering all categories, international shoppers will be able to find what they are looking for in Central Phuket.
Central Phuket is located in the heart of one of the world’s most famous beach cities, Phuket and await to welcome both locals and international visitors this holiday. Also, don’t miss one of the most joyful New Year Count Down events in Phuket city at Central Phuket Shopping Center on December 31, 2023.

World

Saudi Fund for Development Provides $100 Million Development Loan for the Rogun Hydropower Project

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) Chief Executive Officer, H.E. Sultan Al-Marshad, signed a new development loan agreement with the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Kahhorzoda Fayziddin Sattor, through which SFD is contributing $100 million USD to fund the Rogun Hydropower Project, a landmark initiative that will enhance energy,
food, and water security, and foster sustainable development in the country. The signing was attended by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Waleed Al-Reshiadan, and the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Saudi Arabia, H.E. Akram Karimi, alongside other officials from both sides. SFD’s development loan will help contribute towards a more sustainable and equitable food and water future for Tajikistan, while driving the country’s energy transition and climate resilience. The project aims to contribute to the national energy security and will help advance sustainable
development in the Republic of Tajikistan, by providing the renewable electricity supply to meet local demand and expand electricity production domestically and regionally, producing 3600 MW of energy. The loan agreement will also finance the construction of a 335-meter-tall dam, which will enhance irrigation capabilities and bolster agricultural activities across the country. Additionally, the project will improve flood protection through the construction of four hydraulic
tunnels for diversion and drainage. It will also provide clean and drinkable water to people through desalination, and help advance socio-economic development, by creating both direct and indirect jobs.
Importantly, this project also supports the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); specifically, SDG 2, Zero Hunger, SDG 6, Clean Water and Sanitation, and SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy.
On this occasion, the CEO of SFD, H.E. Sultan Al-Marshad, said: “Today’s signing marks a major milestone in our shared journey towards a more sustainable future. With this landmark development loan, SFD is not just supporting Tajikistan’s energy future, but also its sustainable development and the well-being of its people. The Rogun Hydropower Project is a beacon of
hope for a bright future that is powered by clean, renewable energy. It will propel Tajikistan towards environmental stewardship and prosperity.”