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Californians can still apply for grants to protect homes from earthquake damage. The California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP) today reminded Californians that the current Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) grant registration period will close on October 1, 2025. With just weeks left, eligible homeowners and property owners are encouraged to apply now to register for seismic retrofit grant funding.

This registration period, which opened August 20, expanded eligibility to include non-primary residential properties for the first time, giving landlords and other property owners the opportunity to apply for seismic retrofit grants to strengthen wood-framed homes built before 1980 with raised foundations against earthquake damage.

With more than 1,100 eligible ZIP Codes across the state, including 303 added earlier this year, qualified homeowners can apply for grants of up to $3,000 to help cover the cost of bolting houses to their foundations and bracing crawl space walls. These upgrades reduce earthquake damage and provide stronger, safer housing in high-risk areas.

More than $20 million in grant funding is available during this registration period. Since the 2013 program launch, more than 32,500 California homeowners have received EBB grant assistance. The EBB program is administered by CRMP, a Joint Powers Authority between the California Earthquake Authority (CEA)  and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES).

“We’re entering the final stretch of this registration period. The October 1 deadline is quickly approaching and we want to make sure homeowners and property owners take advantage of this opportunity,” said Janiele Maffei, Chief Mitigation Officer, California Earthquake Authority. “Expanding eligibility to rentals this year means more Californians can strengthen their homes against earthquake damage, but time is running short to register.”

Income-eligible homeowners may also qualify for supplemental grants. Up to $7,000 in additional funding is available for households with an annual income at or below $89,040, which may provide up to 100% of the funds needed to cover a seismic retrofit. Grants are contingent upon meeting eligibility requirements and available funds.

Registration closes on October 1, 2025. Eligible homeowners can register at EarthquakeBraceBolt.com, where they can also find detailed program information, select a trained California-licensed general contractor, and view the full list of ZIP Codes and program areas.

About Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB)

Established by the California Residential Mitigation Program, EBB offers up to $3,000 to help California homeowners retrofit their house to reduce potential damage from earthquakes. A residential seismic retrofit makes a house more resistant to earthquake activity, such as ground shaking and soil failure, by bolting the house to its foundation and adding bracing around the perimeter of the crawl space. For more information, please visit EarthquakeBraceBolt.com.

About California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP)

CRMP was established in 2011 to help Californians strengthen their homes against damage from earthquakes. CRMP is a joint powers authority created by the California Earthquake Authority and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. For more information, please visit www.crmp.org.

Media Contact

Sheri Pierce
spierce@calquake.com
+1 279-203-1426

Lucra, the leading provider of social competition services, today announced a new partnership with CliqFit, the fitness app that turns workouts into games. Lucra will power social tournaments and user-generated competitions directly within the CliqFit mobile app, providing fitness enthusiasts the ability to compete for cash and rewards while staying active.

This collaboration marks Lucra’s continued expansion into the fitness space, teaming up with an innovative platform that’s making exercise fun, competitive, and engaging for all types of users. By blending Lucra’s gamification infrastructure with CliqFit’s unique challenges, the two companies will deliver a seamless, unified experience that keeps players motivated to move.

CliqFit’s current gameplay format is simple, yet effective: earn squares on your bingo board by working out. Play solo or against friends to see who can complete their bingo board first. Lucra will make those exercise challenges even more exciting, adding a social competition layer with prizes to inspire and motivate the modern fitness enthusiast.

“CliqFit has reimagined what it means to gamify fitness,” said Dylan Robbins, CEO of Lucra. “Their gameplay is approachable, inclusive, and most importantly—fun. It’s not always easy to stay motivated, but by introducing tournaments and user-created challenges, we’re rewarding individuals for getting up and getting active.”

For CliqFit, partnering with Lucra means enhancing user engagement and retention by providing players with a new reason to return daily. “Lucra’s technology fits perfectly with our vision of making fitness more interactive and rewarding,” said Marisa Horn, CEO of CliqFit. “We’re excited to offer our users a more dynamic way to challenge themselves and each other—whether they’re chasing a bingo or their personal best.”

The partnership will officially launch this fall, alongside the debut of an all-new CliqFit fitness game: a word-play mini-game integrated with movement tracking, designed to promote daily activity in a fresh, interactive way.

About Lucra

Lucra is the leading provider of social competition services, offering hospitality, entertainment, and media brands the ability to natively integrate competitive gameplay into their digital platforms. Clients like Five Iron Golf, Puttshack, Backyard Sports, Dave & Buster’s, TouchTunes, and more use Lucra’s white-label technology to power tournaments and challenges, build loyalty, and drive new revenue. Learn more at www.lucrasports.com.

About CliqFit

CliqFit is the only fitness app that lets users compete in games powered entirely by their workouts, and this is just the beginning. CliqFit already has additional gameplay formats in development, expanding the ways people can challenge each other, stay motivated, and make fitness fun. With an emphasis on inclusivity and enjoyment, CliqFit helps people at all fitness levels connect through play while achieving their activity goals. For more information, visit cliqfitapp.com and download the CliqFit app today.

Media Contact

Michael Madding
michael@lucrasports.com

Skapik Law Group is proud to announce a major victory in the federal class action lawsuit Fitzgerald v. Pollard, securing a $3.5 million settlement on behalf of visitors to the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) who were subjected to unconstitutional strip searches. The settlement earned the firm a Top 20 Civil Rights Settlement and #1 Prison Negligence Settlement in California for 2024 from TopVerdict.com.

The case, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, challenged RJD’s policy of requiring visitors to submit to unclothed body searches without individualized reasonable suspicion. Plaintiff Rhonda Fitzgerald, represented by Skapik Law Group, brought the action under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 (Civil action for deprivation of rights) and related state law claims after she was subjected to a degrading search while visiting an inmate in September 2019. The search, conducted without reasonable suspicion or justification, became the reason for challenging the facility’s unconstitutional policy and seeking justice for all similarly affected visitors.

The lawsuit alleged violations of the Fourth Amendment, arguing that RJD’s blanket strip-search policy intruded on the constitutional rights of visitors. The alleged practice was extremely intrusive towards prison visitors, and it was the Plaintiff’s position that the facility routinely subjected prison visitors to such unconstitutional searches absent any probable cause or reasonable suspicion, and despite the fact that less-intrusive means were readily available.

In the key litigation milestones of the case, the Court denied the defendants' motion to dismiss, allowing the proceedings to continue. Additionally, a defense motion for summary judgment met a similar fate, as it was also denied. A significant development occurred when class certification was granted, which included all visitors who had been subjected to similar searches at RJD since May 5, 2018. Furthermore, all attempts by the defendants to appeal or seek reconsideration were rejected.

After extensive litigation and discovery, the parties reached a settlement totaling $3.5 million. The Court issued its Final Approval Order on October 28, 2024, granting the settlement, attorneys’ fees and related relief.

“This case sends a powerful message that constitutional rights do not stop at the prison gate,” said Geralyn L. Skapik, lead counsel at Skapik Law Group. “The settlement not only provides long-overdue justice for hundreds of visitors but also ensures accountability for unlawful practices that stripped individuals of their dignity.”

About Skapik Law Group

Skapik Law Group is a full-service and trusted law firm dedicated to handling complex legal matters that profoundly affect clients’ lives. Since 2003, the firm has successfully represented thousands of individuals across Southern California in cases involving civil rights and police misconduct, employment law, CPS misconduct and catastrophic or life-altering personal injuries. With its main office in Chino Hills, Skapik Law Group proudly serves clients throughout San Bernardino County, Riverside County, Orange County and the greater Los Angeles area. The firm understands there are no second chances in litigation and is committed to delivering results with compassion, integrity and relentless advocacy. For more information or to discuss the specifics of a potential case, please visit www.skapiklaw.com or call (909) 398-4404.

Media Contact

Joe Marchelewski
AIJ Communications
joe@aijcommunications.com

Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) released a position statement refuting misleading claims from the Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust (HART) that reported low mortality statistics on concentrated synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products in the Poison Control Center dataset proves safety and refutes FDA recommended scheduling.

There are numerous reasons why mortality statistics are grossly misleading:

• First responders, coroners, and clinicians were unaware that 7-OH products existed, greatly reducing the chances 7-OH would be tested for.
• People dying from unknown causes are not routinely tested for 7-OH concentrations. Many opioids, alcohol, and other drugs are routinely tested for post-mortem, so people dying after using 7-OH products in conjunction with another drug would be misattributed. 
• 7-OH products were marketed as “kratom,” so family members and caregivers would likely erroneously attribute deaths to “kratom” and not 7-OH products.
• 7-OH is unstable and degrades quickly in bodily fluids, so samples not taken shortly after death and analyzed expeditiously could fail to detect 7-OH. There are usually long delays analyzing post-mortem samples. 

“Instead of reflecting on the FDA’s well-founded concerns of serious potential health risk, HART continues to misrepresent the data, creating intentional disinformation,” stated KCAC Chair Dr. C. Michael White, Pharm.D., FCP, FCCP, FASHP, and Distinguished Professor of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Connecticut.

In an announcement on July 29, the FDA made clear that synthetic concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine products, but not leaf kratom products, are dangerous and should be considered for scheduling under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act. 

KCAC emphasized that the FDA is right to act. Animal studies have shown that high dose 7-OH is as addictive and dangerous as regular opioids. Synthetic concentrated 7-OH products have been associated with severe addiction, rapid dosage escalation, and problems with breathing, agitation, seizures, and adverse heart effects in consumers. KCAC calls on regulators, lawmakers, and the media to take a clear-eyed view of the risks posed by synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products and urges a halt to the sale of these potent synthetic derivatives outside of research settings.

The full position statement, “Why Poison Control Center Mortality Data Cannot Accurately Reflect Synthetic Concentrated 7-OH Risk” is available here.

About Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC)

Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) is an independent board made up of a clinician-scientist and consumers that uses the strongest available evidence to produce position statements that promote evidence-based policy. The KCAC is supported by the Global Kratom Coalition which advocates for regulations that protect consumers and curbs the sale of adulterated or synthetic products falsely marketed as kratom. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org/kcac.

Media Contact

Katelyn Smith
info@globalkratomcoalition.org
+1 916-955-1867

Choosing the right rhinoplasty surgeon is a life-changing decision that requires a balance of medical expertise, aesthetic vision, and trust. Among Turkey’s leading specialists, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk is recognized for his patient-centered approach that enhances both function and beauty. This 2025 guide outlines how his consultations are structured, the surgical techniques he employs, what patients can expect during recovery, and key considerations for those traveling to Istanbul for treatment. It also highlights complementary procedures often combined in a single medical trip—such as hair transplants and Hollywood Smile makeovers—making Turkey a global destination for comprehensive aesthetic care.

Why is Turkey a global hub for rhinoplasty?

Turkey attracts patients from Europe, the Middle East, and North America for predictable reasons: high surgical volume, experienced facial plastic teams, modern hospital infrastructure, and patient services built around medical travel. English-speaking care coordinators, airport transfers, and hotel partnerships remove friction, while pricing remains competitive without cutting corners on safety. For many, that makes Istanbul the logical city to pair clinical quality with a smooth experience.

Meet Dr. Güncel Öztürk: A balance of function and form

A refined nose that doesn’t breathe well is not a success. Dr. Güncel Öztürk’s approach weighs airway and aesthetics equally. During rhinoplasty Turkey consultation, he evaluates septal deviation, valve integrity, tip support, and skin thickness alongside your aesthetic goals for the bridge, radix, and tip. The goal is not a “standard” nose, but your nose—one that respects ethnic features and facial proportions so results look natural in motion as well as in photos.

Consultation: Setting realistic goals before the OR

Every strong result begins with a clear plan. Expect a structured history, standardized photographs, and an open conversation about what is achievable without compromising function. You’ll review whether an open or closed approach best serves your anatomy, what grafts may be needed for support, and how recovery fits your calendar. International patients can often start with a secure teleconsultation to screen candidacy and arrive in Istanbul with a written plan already in place.

Technique choices: Open vs. closed, primary vs. revision, and preservation methods (Let Down & Push Down)

There is no one technique that suits everyone. Open rhinoplasty offers superior visibility for complex tip work, grafting, and revision cases—especially when previous surgery left scar tissue or weakened support. Closed rhinoplasty can be ideal for selected primary cases that require dorsal refinement with more limited tip modification and fewer external incisions.

In addition to these approaches, Dr. Güncel Öztürk is internationally recognized for advanced preservation techniques such as let-down and push-down Preservation Rhinoplasty, on which he has published numerous scientific articles in some of the world’s most prestigious medical journals. These methods focus on maintaining the natural dorsum and nasal structures while correcting deformities, leading to more stable, natural-looking, and long-lasting results. What matters is structural stability: preserving or rebuilding tip support, keeping the internal valve open, and shaping a dorsum that harmonizes with your brow and chin. A surgeon comfortable with both philosophies can tailor the method to your anatomy.

Anesthesia, facility, and safety

Surgery typically takes place in a licensed surgical center or hospital setting under general anesthesia, with board-certified anesthesia providers and standardized monitoring. Pre-op labs, medication reconciliation, and a detailed consent discussion are part of a responsible pathway. Good clinics publish their sterilization protocols, outline who is present in the OR, and schedule follow-ups before you even buy your flight—transparency that reduces stress and improves outcomes.

What natural results look like

Natural rhinoplasty doesn’t shout for attention. On the frontal view, soft lines lead the eye from brow to tip without harsh shadows. On profile, the dorsum is balanced, not over-scooped; on base view, nostrils look symmetric without pinching. Most important, breathing feels quiet and effortless. The result supports your expressions instead of competing with them.

Recovery timeline you can plan around

After surgery, splints and tapes usually stay for about a week. Bruising fades markedly by days 7 to 10, enough to return to desk work and video meetings in roughly one to two weeks, depending on your job. Cardio and heavy lifting come later to protect cartilage and grafts. Early definition appears around the third month; subtle refinements continue up to twelve months (sometimes longer for thicker skin). Sticking to saline care, head elevation, and sun protection pays off in crisper, calmer contours.

Traveling to Istanbul for surgery

Istanbul is built for medical travel. Once your teleconsultation and tentative plan are approved, the clinic locks in pre-op testing, surgery day, and early follow-up. Coordinators handle airport pickup, hotel suggestions near the clinic, and translation where needed. Many patients schedule a gentle sightseeing day after splint removal before flying home with detailed aftercare instructions and scheduled video check-ins.

Cost, value, and transparency

Price should reflect surgeon experience, facility standards, anesthesia, and aftercare—not just an operating slot. A responsible quote itemizes what’s included, from medications to follow-up visits. Beware of hard-sale tactics or numbers that sound too good to be true without a clear scope; real value shows in outcomes, not in slogans. Ask to see consistent, standardized before-and-after photos and request a written plan that links surgical steps to your goals.

Beyond rhinoplasty: hair transplant in Turkey

It’s common for international patients to explore hair transplant Turkey during the same trip. At HairNeva Hair Transplant Clinic, the most innovative DHI method is generally preferred for its precision and natural-looking density, while techniques such as FUE and Sapphire FUE are also available when indicated by the patient’s donor characteristics and treatment plan. Done thoughtfully, hair restoration complements facial harmony rather than competing with it. If you’re considering both rhinoplasty and hair restoration, expect your care team to sequence procedures for safety and comfort; sometimes that means consultation now and transplant at a later date, depending on your recovery window.

Hollywood Smile in Turkey: A complementary aesthetic path

Smile design is another popular request. At DRGO Smile Dental Clinic, Hollywood Smile in Turkey may involve porcelain veneers, minimally invasive prep, and occlusion analysis to protect longevity. Competent dental teams photograph your face and teeth in standardized lighting to map midline, gingival display, and incisal edge position. If you’re planning rhinoplasty and smile design in the same calendar window, the order of operations matters: many patients finalize nasal proportions first, then harmonize tooth length and brightness to the new facial balance.

Aftercare and follow-through

The quiet secret behind great outcomes is disciplined aftercare. Clinics that plan your follow-ups in advance, respond quickly to questions, and provide “what-to-expect” checkpoints at week one, month three, six, and twelve reduce anxiety and detect small issues early. That rhythm of care matters even more for revision cases, where tissues take longer to settle and swelling can mask improvements for months.

Who should not rush into rhinoplasty

If you’re expecting a completely different face, or if you’re facing major life stress that would derail recovery routines, it may be wiser to wait. Likewise, nicotine use impairs healing; surgeons consistently request cessation well before and after surgery. A candid consultation is your ally here: a trustworthy surgeon will sometimes recommend postponing or choosing a more conservative plan.

FAQs about Dr. Güncel Öztürk and rhinoplasty in Turkey

1. How do I choose the best rhinoplasty surgeon in Turkey?

• Look for a structural philosophy that safeguards breathing while refining aesthetics; ask how the plan protects the internal valve and tip support.
• Review standardized photos across angles (frontal, oblique, profile, base) taken in consistent lighting—variety beats one heroic shot.
• Demand a written surgical plan and follow-up calendar before booking flights; clarity now prevents surprises later.
• Confirm the facility standards and anesthesia team; great results start with safe settings.
• Prioritize surgeons who explain trade-offs honestly over those promising “perfect” noses for everyone.

2. How should I prepare in the week before surgery?

• Stop nicotine as instructed; avoid blood-thinning supplements and medications unless cleared by your surgeon.
• Arrange time off work and support at home; elevate your head post-op and set up saline sprays and gentle skincare.
• Pack zip-front tops to avoid pulling clothing over your nose; pre-chill cold packs and plan low-sodium meals to minimize swelling.
• Confirm airport transfers, hotel details near the clinic, and your first follow-up time; put all contacts in your phone.
• Take clear “before” photos in consistent light for your own reference—you’ll appreciate the comparison later.

3. Is open or closed rhinoplasty better for me?

Neither method is universally superior; your anatomy and goals decide. Open rhinoplasty offers precision for complex tip work and scarred revisions, while closed rhinoplasty serves selected primary cases that need modest adjustments. The best surgeons are fluent in both and will recommend the approach that preserves structure and achieves the most natural balance for your face.

4. How long until I see my final result?

Expect a meaningful preview at three months and ongoing refinement through month twelve. Skin thickness, graft usage, and how closely you follow aftercare all influence the timeline. Thicker-skinned patients often notice tip definition maturing a bit later than those with thinner skin—both are normal arcs.

5. Which aesthetic procedures can be combined with rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can be combined with complementary aesthetic procedures to create a more harmonious overall appearance. Common combinations include breast augmentation and Pentalift (endoscopic facelift). The sequence of procedures is planned with consideration for safety and the recovery process, ensuring that the aesthetic results achieve a natural and balanced harmony.

6. Can I combine rhinoplasty with hair transplant or a Hollywood Smile?

Many visitors evaluate these services during the same trip, but operative staging depends on safety and recovery. A common plan is rhinoplasty first, hair transplant or smile design second—either in a later visit or after your nose reaches key milestones. Your team will help you sequence treatments without overloading your healing capacity.

Putting it all together

When people search for the Best Rhinoplasty Surgeon Turkey – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk, they’re really asking for a steady plan: clear diagnosis, tailored technique, and a clinic that remains present after the splint is off and the selfies return. Turkey’s ecosystem makes that possible—experienced teams, efficient travel logistics, and treatment pathways that respect both function and aesthetics. If you’re also considering hair transplant in Turkey at HairNeva or a Hollywood Smile in Turkey at DRGO Smile in Turkey, the same principles apply: measured planning, honest expectations, and qualified teams working in accredited settings. Both clinics are founded by Dr. Güncel Öztürk, ensuring expert guidance across all treatments.

About Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Güncel Öztürk is a distinguished Turkish plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon based in Istanbul. A graduate of Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, he furthered his training at Yale University and the University of Miami, and holds the prestigious EBOPRAS certification. Dr. Öztürk is the founder of DRGO Clinic and HairNeva, where he continues to practice in Nişantaşı. In 2024, he was appointed Associate Professor, recognizing his contributions to the field. Beyond medicine, he is also an accomplished artist and author. For more information, visit www.guncelozturk.com.

Media Contact

Güncel Öztürk
info@guncelozturk.com
+90 532 501 03 55

Turkey has rapidly established itself as a leading global hub for dental tourism, drawing thousands of international patients each year for procedures such as implants, Hollywood Smiles, crowns, and veneers. In 2025, we spotlight the Top 10 dental makeover clinics that distinguish themselves with internationally recognized certifications, state-of-the-art technology, transparent pricing, and exceptional patient satisfaction.

1. Vera Smile (Istanbul)

Overview: Recognized as one of the best dental clinics in Turkey, Vera Smile is part of the award-winning Vera Clinic group, acknowledged by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), and a member of the Slow Dentistry Global Network. It offers full-service treatments including dental implants, Hollywood Smile makeovers, veneers, crowns, and Digital Smile Design (DSD).

Why it stands out: Vera Smile uses only premium implant systems such as Straumann and Nobel Biocare, along with advanced CAD/CAM and 3D scanning technology. The clinic is known for transparent pricing, certified materials, and exceptionally high patient satisfaction among international visitors.

2. Marmaris Dental Center (Marmaris)

Overview: Established in 2008, Marmaris Dental Center serves thousands of international patients each year, particularly from the UK and Scandinavia. Services include implants, veneers, crowns, and restorative dentistry, all performed by experienced oral surgeons and prosthodontists.

Why it stands out: Located in a popular resort town, the clinic blends holiday appeal with high-quality treatment. CE-certified materials, multilingual staff, and clear cost structures make it a reliable option for dental tourists.

3. Alanya Dental Clinic (Alanya)

Overview: Founded in 1993, Alanya Dental Clinic is one of the most established providers in Turkey’s Mediterranean region. The clinic offers implants, smile design, crowns, and bridges, supported by an in-house dental laboratory.

Why it stands out: With over 30 years of experience and ISO-certified sterilization, the clinic provides trustworthy, fast treatments often completed in under a week, ideal for international patients on limited schedules.

4. WestDent Clinic (Izmir)

Overview: WestDent is a high-tech dental center featuring eight treatment rooms and extended operating hours. Its specialties include Digital Smile Design, implantology, orthodontics, and cosmetic gum surgery.

Why it stands out: Known for a 95%+ success rate in implantology, WestDent combines advanced CAD/CAM milling with natural aesthetics. Its patient-focused scheduling and international department make it a top choice in Izmir.

5. EsteDent Turkey (Istanbul)

Overview: EsteDent focuses on Hollywood Smile treatments, E-max veneers, crowns, and whitening, using minimally invasive techniques and advanced imaging technology.

Why it stands out: Highly popular among younger patients, EsteDent is praised for its artistic veneer work and gum contouring, delivering natural and balanced aesthetics at competitive prices.

6. Dentavrasya (Istanbul)

Overview: Dentavrasya provides a wide range of services including all-on-4 and all-on-6 implants, sinus lifts, bone grafting, veneers, and smile design.

Why it stands out: The clinic is known for handling complex implant and surgical cases under strict hygiene protocols. It also offers warranties on implant systems, adding long-term confidence for international patients.

7. Dentevim Clinic (Istanbul)

Overview: Founded in 2013, Dentevim specializes in zirconia crowns, veneers, Hollywood Smile makeovers, and implant-supported bridges. The clinic emphasizes tailor-made care with multilingual staff.

Why it stands out: Dentevim provides digital treatment plans in advance, allowing patients to preview results before travel. Its boutique-style service and high ratings make it ideal for those seeking personalized care.

8. Dr. Terziler Clinic (Istanbul)

Overview: Dr. Terziler Clinic is a premium practice centered on cosmetic smile transformations and high-end veneers, catering to patients looking for glamorous results.

Why it stands out: With VIP transfers, concierge coordination, and celebrity-style Hollywood Smiles, it’s one of the most exclusive dental destinations in Turkey.

9. Dentatur (Antalya and Istanbul)

Overview: Dentatur is a leading name in dental tourism, offering all-inclusive packages for implants, crowns, and veneers. The clinic uses in-house labs to deliver fast results.

Why it stands out: Known for affordability and convenience, Dentatur attracts UK and German patients with hotel stays, transfers, and multilingual support included in its packages.

10. Aslı Tarcan Dental Clinic (Istanbul)

Overview: Aslı Tarcan Clinic, part of the larger medical group, specializes in Hollywood Smile makeovers, whitening, and dental implants. Its modern facilities and VIP services attract international patients.

Why it stands out: With a celebrity reputation and luxury patient services, Aslı Tarcan has become one of Istanbul’s most recognizable dental brands for cosmetic dentistry.

Media Contact

Vera Clinic
info@verasmile.com
+90 542 743 54 08

viggoVet, an AI platform designed for veterinary medicine, reports that practices using its system have achieved profit increases exceeding 32%, more than double the veterinary industry’s average rise of up to 16%.

viggoVet serves as the first veterinary-exclusive AI platform engineered to meet the clinical, financial, multi-specialty AI and ethical standards unique to animal healthcare and this result underscores its role in helping veterinary clinics address long-standing operational inefficiencies that undermine profitability: unbilled services, overlooked diagnostics, and heavy administrative burdens continue to cost practices significant revenue each year.

“Practices were losing significant revenue before realizing what had gone missing,” said viggoVet founder Michael Gerges, DVM. “This platform thinks with veterinarians, flags what was performed but not billed, and gives managers the visibility to act before profit slips away.”

The platform was developed in response to common challenges faced by veterinarians with legacy systems and complex data management. Based on his experience as a senior DVM and practice owner, Gerges worked with hundreds of veterinarians worldwide to create a system designed for veterinary practices. The platform uses business AI to connect documentation, billing, and workflow with financial tools that identify inefficiencies and unbilled services in real time.

viggoVet operates through private, clinic-specific instances hosted in Switzerland, Germany, the U.S., the UK, and the UAE. Each instance is isolated, ensuring client and practice data remain protected. Developers cannot access or reuse practice data, supporting confidentiality and compliance with regulatory standards.

In addition to revenue capture, viggoVet reduces administrative tasks. Its AI tools provide SOAP note templates, voice dictation, and document parsing to automate routine processes. The system also integrates client communications through channels including WhatsApp, Telegram, email, and SMS, reducing the need for staff to manage repetitive reminders.

“Saving a missed lab charge or automating a reminder might seem small,” Michael added, “but when those systems catch dozens of inefficiencies every day, the cumulative effect is transformative. For clinics operating on narrow margins, this can be the difference between struggling to stay afloat and achieving long-term sustainability.”

viggoVet’s onboarding process is structured to reduce disruption. Data migration is typically completed within hours or days, enabling practices to use the system without extended downtime. This approach allows clinics to begin addressing revenue capture and administrative efficiency soon after implementation.

The platform applies AI to support veterinary workflows with an emphasis on accuracy, security, and operational efficiency. By linking documentation, billing, and communication in one system, viggoVet provides practices with tools to address recurring operational challenges and measure financial impact.

About viggoVet

viggoVet is a veterinary business intelligence platform integrating practice management with proprietary Veterinary AI. Developed in collaboration with hundreds of veterinarians, viggoVet captures missed charges, automates documentation and communication, and delivers real-time financial and operational visibility. Built for veterinary practice realities, deployed in clinic-specific secure instances under Swiss privacy standards, viggoVet removes inefficiencies that erode profitability. For more information, visit viggo.vet.

Media Contact

Michael Gerges
michael@viggotech.io

Unibet is making bold moves. Backed by a major European acquisition and guided by a clear vision, the brand is stepping into a new chapter, one defined by smart partnerships and forward-thinking features.

From high-profile sports sponsorships to frictionless gameplay experiences, every development feels intentional. It’s less about keeping up and more about setting the tone for what online gaming can become.

A Vision Became a Pillar of Success

Unibet, as a leading casino online brand, began with something simple: one person’s desire to make betting more thoughtful. Back in 1997, Anders Ström launched the platform with the idea of giving fellow sports fans access to better insights (real information that could turn gut feelings into smart wagers).

That mindset didn’t fade. If anything, it set the tone for everything that followed.

In those early years, Unibet focused on keeping things clean and easy to use. Deposits didn’t feel like a maze. Browsing markets was quick. Withdrawals weren’t a guessing game. As users warmed to the platform, Unibet kept listening, tweaking, and building.

As the 2000s gained speed, so did Unibet. What started as a sports betting site gradually turned into a broader gaming destination.

Poker rooms, live casinos, a constantly growing list of global sports markets, the platform widened its lens, attracting everyone from casual weekend players to high-stakes veterans. And it didn’t go unnoticed. Over time, Unibet earned recognition for its poker ecosystem, its user-first design approach, and its commitment to running a responsible, transparent operation.

A defining milestone came in 2024, when the brand became part of a larger European group (FDJ)  through a major corporate merger. The move brought new scale and resources, but more importantly, it kept the original DNA intact. Unibet didn’t lose its personality in the process; it actually gained more momentum.

Smart Partnerships Are Expanding Unibet’s Reach

Growth doesn’t always come from adding more, but from choosing better. For Unibet, partnerships have become a strategic lever to build lasting relevance across regions, audiences, and passions.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the world of sports. Partnerships with Middlesbrough FC and FC Copenhagen emphasize the brand’s understanding of club loyalty and the long-term value of supporting teams with deep cultural significance.

Another standout initiative saw the brand donate over 50,000 pieces of sports equipment across multiple regions, gear that’s essential, yet often out of reach for teams operating on tight budgets. From training kits and match balls to protective gear and club essentials, the effort was practical, meaningful, and driven by real need.

Unibet also remains a proud sponsor of the iconic Cheltenham Festival, which has strengthened its ties to one of horse racing’s most prestigious events.

Across every vertical, there’s a throughline: relevance, intention, and an understanding of where passion lives. In choosing quality over saturation, Unibet earns its place in the story fans are already following.

Smarter Features, Sharper Experience

Unibet always improves the user experience. Every update feels intentional, built to make the experience smoother, faster, and more intuitive for the people who use it daily.

The interface has been designed to adapt to each user’s habits. Betting suggestions now reflect actual preferences, helping users navigate without getting lost in menus or unnecessary clutter. It’s personalization without the noise.

In the casino, the focus is variety and clarity. Games are grouped in a way that makes sense. Tournaments run regularly; they offer solid prize pools and give players additional engagement.

The live casino side brings real energy, with professional hosts and multi-language tables that feel closer to the floor of a real venue than a screen.

On the sports side, coverage is broad and built for depth. From major leagues to niche picks, the odds stay competitive and the options run deep. Esports is especially strong, with markets for top-tier titles and round-the-clock availability through virtual sports.

The entire platform reflects one thing clearly: updates aren’t added for show, they come from listening.

Putting Player Safety First

Unibet takes a clear stance on safer gambling. It’s not optional and it’s built into how the platform works. From the moment a player signs up, they have access to tools that help keep habits in check.

These include deposit limits, time reminders, and session controls that are easy to set and adjust. There’s also a self-check system that helps users evaluate their own behavior and step back when needed.

The company’s long-term goal is also quite noble and ambitious: to remove all revenue linked to problem gambling, so-called Unibet’s Zero% Mission.

Unibet also works closely with regulators and industry groups to improve how risk is identified and managed.

What gives these initiatives even more weight is Unibet’s parent company, FDJ (Française des Jeux). In 2024, FDJ reported €3.1 billion in revenue and reached a player base of 33 million users across Europe. Those numbers reflect trust. A platform doesn’t grow to that level unless users believe in its integrity and long-term vision.

That same approach now drives the use of behavioral analytics to flag early signs of problematic play. When patterns shift, Unibet can step in with personalized guidance. The focus is always on balance: giving players the freedom to enjoy the experience while making sure safety tools are never far away.

Unibet’s message is simple: if the platform isn’t safe, it isn’t doing its job. That clarity is what sets it apart.

Stronger, Smarter, and One Step Ahead

Unibet’s place in the market is the result of consistent decisions that put players, innovation, and responsibility at the center. From strategic sports sponsorships to backing amateur teams and grassroots clubs, the brand has built a presence that feels connected at every level of the game. Its platform reflects the same mindset.

Backed by FDJ’s scale and reputation, and trusted by millions of users, Unibet stands as a clear example of what modern gaming should look like.

Media Contact

James Clifford
j.clifford@Imperium-comms.com

Vlad Casino is doubling down on localization to increase player conversion rates across Romania's rapidly growing online gambling sector. The brand adopted a local-first UX strategy aimed at delivering faster navigation, relevant content, and an experience that aligns closely with Romanian user expectations. From mobile interface upgrades to Romanian-first bonus flows, every aspect of the platform is now engineered around local preferences.

A UX Built Around Romanian Behavior

The shift isn’t cosmetic. It reflects a larger product strategy focused on retention and trust. The players are increasingly mobile-first, fast-moving, and expect instant access to features and support.

Vlad Casino's new interface responds to that expectation with simplified menus and a lean design. One-click access leads users directly to popular sections like video slots, classic fruit machines, live dealer tables, and promotional offers.

Midway through this UX rebuild, the platform continues to invest in enhancing player experiences on modern casino online platforms. That investment isn’t limited to aesthetics, it's functional, compliance-focused, and rooted in conversion data. By building an interface that reflects how players actually interact with casino platforms, the casino is bridging the gap between usability and profitability.

Localization Touchpoints That Matter

The localization work shows up immediately. The entire site defaults to the native language, uses RON for all currencies, and showcases promotions based on time-of-day patterns in the local market.

Players logging in during weekends, for example, are more likely to see spins-based rewards. Meanwhile, weekday logins lean into deposit boosters and timed cashback bonuses.

Even onboarding has changed. The signup flow now auto-fills Romanian cities and formats ID fields to match national documentation. Verification steps have been reduced to a few clicks, with live chat assistance available in Romanian throughout the process. No translation gaps, no redirects, just fast, intuitive sign-up.

Games and Navigation Built for Local Taste

Once inside, users encounter a redesigned game catalog with filters sorted. Instead of forcing players to scroll through global top hits, the platform  prioritizes titles known to perform well in Romania. These include Shining Crown, Burning Hot, Gates of Olympus, and Book of Dead, to name a few.

The "Recomandari Pentru Tine" section highlights localized favorites such as Fire Joker, 20 Super Hot, 5 Dazzling Hot, Dice & Roll, and 40 Burning Hot. These games are presented in bold visuals with their providers clearly marked (e.g., Amusnet, Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play), alongside real-time jackpot values displayed in RON.

Games are grouped cleanly by category, including classic slots with coin-based displays, progressive jackpots with real-time prize tracking, and live casino rooms powered by Evolution. Navigation is fast and responsive, with dedicated shortcuts to "Fructe", "Drops & Wins", "Jocuri Noi", and Megaways.

To support casual players and beginners, the platform  also offers a demo mode. Every major game can be tested with virtual credits, no deposit required. This feature has proven particularly popular with new registrants, reducing hesitation and creating more confident, higher-converting users.

Local Payments and Trusted Bonuses

Payment flows have also gone local. Deposit and withdrawal methods prioritize trusted channels like Trustly, Apple Pay, and major domestic banks.

Each transaction screen now features native branding, local logos, and fast currency switching, without relying on outdated dropdown menus. Withdrawals are processed within hours and tracked in real time from the user dashboard.

This local-first UX model extends into promotions as well. The welcome bonus, up to 1,500 RON and 225 free spins, is displayed with Romanian-specific FAQs, bonus conditions written in simple language, and fully automated activation. Players know what they're getting, when it activates, and how to track wagering progress, all without needing to contact support.

Responsible Gaming and Integrated Support

But it isn’t just about interface design. Vlad Casino has embedded responsible gaming tools directly into its user experience. Players can set session timers, deposit limits, or exclude themselves for a cooldown period, all without leaving the main interface. These tools are surfaced contextually, based on usage behavior, making them visible but not intrusive.

Support has also been localized. Players have access to Romanian-language live chat agents who handle account queries, technical issues, and promotion-related questions without canned replies or offshore delays. It’s part of a wider service-level upgrade aimed at removing barriers between users and the platform.

Security and Seamless Mobile UX

Security is another cornerstone. All games on the platform run on certified Random Number Generators and meet ONJN regulatory standards. The platform uses the latest encryption to secure player data and processes all financial transactions within Romania’s legal frameworks.

On mobile, the site mirrors the desktop experience exactly, fast load times, frictionless navigation, no missing features. Players can switch devices mid-session without disruption. And for users who want even faster access, the optional app offers biometric login, instant bonus alerts, and offline browsing of game info.

Every feature on mobile has been optimized for touch, with enlarged buttons, quick-launch game icons, and intuitive gesture-based navigation. The mobile-first UI also supports fast-loading game previews, full promotional access, and real-time support chat all without compromising performance or draining data.

Personalized Recommendations That Reflect Player Behavior

Vlad Casino’s platform learns from player behavior in real time, curating a unique game mix for each account. As noted earlier in the games section, the “Recomandări Pentru Tine” feature isn’t a static list, it dynamically adjusts based on recent activity, including what users browse, launch, or linger on.

Whether someone plays jackpot slots, explores table games, or sticks with classic fruit titles, the system adapts to match their preferences. This approach removes friction from the experience, helping users get back into action quickly with games they’re statistically more likely to engage with.

Regulatory Compliance and Promotional Transparency

Vlad Casino structures all its promotions, whether welcome bonuses, cashback deals, or free spin drops, according to the rules laid out by ONJN. Every offer comes with clearly presented terms, displayed in Romanian, and includes essential details like eligible games, wagering requirements, and withdrawal limits.

No hidden clauses, no fine print traps, players see exactly what they’re opting into. This clarity not only builds trust, it reflects a wider commitment to responsible promotion under local regulatory standards.

Built for Loyalty, Not Just Acquisition

In a highly competitive regulated market, Vlad Casino’s local-first UX overhaul is a blueprint for how Romanian gambling platforms can win on player loyalty, not just acquisition. While many international brands still treat localization as an afterthought, Vlad Casino has shown that building natively for Romanians, not just translating, delivers measurable performance benefits.

As more casino operators turn to UX as a differentiator, Vlad’s strategy offers one clear takeaway: in Romania, the best online experience is the one that feels built for you.

Media Contact

James Clifford
j.clifford@Imperium-comms.com

MegaCapital Hawaii Corp. shares its formal strategic direction centered on legacy-focused real estate planning for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). The company, which operates Luxury Big Island and Private Listings, has outlined its long-term commitment to facilitating real estate transactions that prioritize generational permanence over short-term gain.

This signals a continued departure from conventional, visibility-driven real estate practices. Rather than focusing on listings, public promotion, or high-volume sales tactics, the firm structures private acquisitions intended to remain in families for generations.

“Our clients are not buying homes to post them. They’re securing assets their children and grandchildren will hold long after they’re gone,” said Harold Clarke, CEO of MegaCapital Hawaii Corp. “The focus is on stability, not attention.”

This formal positioning reflects the company’s active role as a private office managing discreet real estate portfolios for global clients who seek long-term asset retention in the Hawaiian Islands. The company works with families, family offices, and private advisors to identify and secure significant properties—many of which are never publicly listed or promoted.

Through its Private Listings platform, the company maintains a discreet inventory of off-market properties. These include several of the most valuable residential assets in the state, some exceeding $40 million in value. Access to these listings is limited and confidential.

The firm’s public-facing website, Luxury Big Island, continues to serve clients who wish to enter the Hawai‘i market through traditional channels, but with a white-glove level of service tailored to elite buyers and sellers. Both brands operate under the MegaCapital Hawaii Corp. umbrella, which functions as a private office and strategic partner for long-term real estate holdings.

“We’re not chasing market cycles,” Clarke said. “We’re building structures that allow families to hold and protect what matters—across generations.”

As part of its broader mission, MegaCapital Hawaii Corp. supports clients in identifying properties with potential for long-term use, low visibility, and strategic geographic value. The company emphasizes that these decisions are driven by continuity and privacy—not urgency.

The company’s new strategy highlights a growing trend among UHNWIs to invest in real estate as a form of legacy planning rather than short-term speculation. In addition to its direct work with buyers and sellers, MegaCapital Hawaii Corp. collaborates with attorneys, estate planners, and private wealth advisors to support multi-decade planning for residential and mixed-use properties.

The firm’s announcement aligns with its upcoming corporate platform launch, which will publicly present the team, portfolio structure, and services offered across its entities. The new website will also introduce MegaCapital Hawaii Corp’s function as a central access point for private and public acquisition pathways in Hawai‘i.

MegaCapital Hawaii Corp. will continue to operate with a focus on privacy, permanence, and placement through trust-based networks. Its leadership emphasizes that while the strategy has been in place for years, today’s formal announcement reflects a desire to publicly clarify the firm’s model for legacy-driven real estate services in Hawai‘i.

Media Contact

Mandana Clarke
mandana@private-listings.com

Inspired AI, a Singapore-based technology company founded in 2023, today announced remarkable growth for its flagship product, TalkMe AI, an “AI-native” language learning application. The company reported over 1,000% year-over-year growth in both user base and ARR, with revenue doubling in the past three months, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing players in the multilingual learning sector.

TalkMe’s market value was validated in November 2024, when it raised $3.5 million in angel funding from investors including Seas Capital, Jinqiu Capital, and GSR Ventures.

AI-Native Advantage

TalkMe is designed from the ground up as an AI-native application, fully leveraging generative AI. This distinction enables lower content production costs and a faster path to scalable, high-quality personalized content.

Key performance highlights include:

• 10% increase in paid conversion rate
• 20% increase in ARPU
• 3–4x higher 30-day retention compared to industry average

These results demonstrate TalkMe’s strong commercial efficiency and user stickiness.

Product and Technology Roadmap

Central to TalkMe’s strategy is its AI agent philosophy. Beyond hyper-realistic AI avatars, the platform already offers over 10,000 practical lessons and has supported more than 11,000 user-created customized scenarios.

The upcoming generation of AI agents will feature enhanced contextual understanding and judgment capabilities, allowing them to:

• Guide users in uploading personalized learning materials
• Automatically generate long-term course plans
• Adaptively analyze behavior data for highly personalized learning paths

This roadmap underlines TalkMe’s vision to deliver not just adaptive lessons, but end-to-end personalized education journeys.

Global Expansion and Strategic Partnerships

As a participant in the 2024 Google for Startups Accelerator, TalkMe is actively working on expanding into international markets. With its AI-native differentiation, proven growth model, and scalable low-cost structure, TalkMe is well-positioned to reshape the global language learning landscape.

About Inspired AI

Founded in 2023 and headquartered in Singapore, Inspired AI is dedicated to reimagining education through generative AI. Its flagship product, TalkMe AI, is the first truly “AI-native” language learning application, delivering scalable, cost-efficient, and personalized learning experiences for users worldwide. For more information, please visit www.talkme.ai.

Media Contact

Inspired AI Marketing
Lea@talkme.ai

Tbilisi’s Business and Technology University (BTU) has created an artificial intelligence system that analyzes voice patterns to identify psychological traits. The technology merges psychology, AI, and psycho-acoustic analytics to reveal the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions of individuals with notable precision.

Unlike psychological assessments that rely on questionnaires or subjective interpretation, BTU’s innovation examines the nuances of human speech, including tone, rhythm, resonance, tempo, pause, and emotional fluctuations, to construct a detailed psychological profile. The output, known as a psycho-code, serves as an index that maps how a person thinks, feels, and reacts, revealing personality dimensions that were previously difficult to measure.

The breakthrough was made possible by merging advanced AI algorithms with psycho-acoustic research. During its initial phase, researchers analyzed 500 voice recordings, confirming the system’s effectiveness. The ongoing second phase involves 1,200 participants, broadening the dataset and supporting comparative studies. 

Early findings have already been published in leading European scientific repositories, underscoring the technology’s scientific significance. The system was developed on BTU's AI platform, which brings together expertise from psychology, artificial intelligence, and technology specialists.

This initiative reflects BTU’s growing emphasis on artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of its research agenda. The psycho-code offers a new perspective on understanding human consciousness. Just as DNA carries biological information, the psycho-code provides a “wave code” of psychological processes. This allows specialists to interpret behavior, motivations, and potential for growth. This approach not only advances academic research but also opens doors to practical applications across mental health, education, and personal development.

By turning voice signals into measurable data, BTU’s system advances both cognitive science and artificial intelligence. Researchers emphasize that the technology is designed to complement, not replace, the work of psychologists. By effectively “hacking” the human mind through voice, the system opens possibilities for both scientific research and practical applications, transforming how people understand themselves.

About Business and Technology University (BTU)

Business and Technology University (BTU), based in Tbilisi, Georgia, is a leading higher education institution dedicated to innovation at the intersection of business, science, and technology. The university advances research and practical applications in fields such as artificial intelligence, psychology, and digital transformation, preparing students and professionals to shape the future of technology and society. Learn more at btu.edu.ge.

Media Contact

Maia Noniashvili
info@btu.edu.ge

YOYOS is proud to announce that our documentary short film "Prisms of Experience" created in partnership with Nexus Health, has been officially selected for the 8th Annual Live Mindfield Film Festival, that took place from Aug. 28 to 31, 2025, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The film also has been selected as a Platinum Award winner for “Best New Mexico Short Film.”

It was screened at Guild Cinema in Albuquerque on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 8:30 p.m. Three of the four women featured in the film were in attendance to discuss their experience with cancer, resilience and the making of the film.

The selection marks a significant milestone for both YOYOS and Nexus Health, showcasing their collaborative commitment to innovative storytelling that explores the multifaceted nature of human experience in healthcare. "Prisms of Experience" joined a curated lineup of compelling films that were presented to the audiences and industry professionals during the four-day festival.

"We are beyond thrilled and honored to have 'Prisms of Experience' premiere at the Mindfield Film Festival," said Cameron Kit, founder of YOYOS. "This selection validates our collaborative approach with Nexus Health and our shared belief in the power of documentary storytelling to share healing and empower more patients to take charge of their own health. Nexus has been an amazing supporter, especially Dr. Scott Herbert, who connected me with the women in the film.”

"Prisms of Experience" is a powerful short documentary that follows four women living with cancer in Santa Fe, New Mexico, as they navigate life with a diagnosis and demonstrate how to live as an example to others. Guided by the philosophy that "cancer is not a death sentence; it's a call to live," the film explores how each woman experiences different perspectives or "prisms of experience" in their daily lives while living with cancer. The documentary uses real prisms as a visual metaphor to illustrate how a diagnosis can fundamentally change one's perspective on life, hope and human connection. 

The inspiration for "Prisms of Experience" came through notable Santa Fe artist Pamela Markoya, whose photography of Virginia King at the Dawn Light Sanctuary in New Mexico caught the filmmaker's attention. When asked about the images, Markoya observed, "Living with cancer is experiencing 'prisms of experience' every day." This insight became the foundation for the documentary's approach, using real prisms as a visual metaphor to explore how a cancer diagnosis transforms one's perspective on life.

The documentary features four remarkable women — Debbie, Andie, Virginia and Pamela — who have courageously shared their personal journeys with cancer. Their stories of strength, resilience, and hope offer universal lessons that extend far beyond their individual diagnoses, demonstrating that their experiences can inspire and connect with audiences regardless of their own health circumstances.

“This is fabulous news and I’m filled with gratitude for Cameron and the whole team at Nexus who made this happen,” shared Markoya.

The festival selection and award comes at an exciting time for YOYOS, who continues to develop projects in partnership with forward-thinking clients like Nexus Health. The collaboration demonstrates how healthcare organizations and creative storytellers can work together to push the boundaries of traditional documentary filmmaking while addressing important health and wellness topics with sensitivity and authenticity.

About YOYOS (You Own Your Own Stories)

YOYOS is a documentary and podcast storytelling company dedicated to bringing real people’s stories into the spotlight. Through award-winning documentary films and podcasts, the company creates emotional and memorable narratives that drive results. YOYOS focuses on resetting the narrative and challenging the hype with true stories that inspire audiences worldwide. For more information, visit www.yoyos.ai.

Media Contact

Shreya Vadlamani
shreya@yoyos.ai

Radixweb, a global software development and product engineering company with 25+ years of experience today explained how it is closing the critical gap between AI ambition and measurable business impact.

What Is the AI Ambition and Business Impact Gap?

Organizations, big and small, across industries are leveraging AI to enhance operational efficiency, and transform how work gets done. Investments in AI infrastructure worldwide will reach $400 billion by 2027, demonstrating this increased inclination towards AI.

But a vast majority of AI pilots fail to produce any tangible business outcomes. That's why for IT leaders and CIOs, turning AI ambition into measurable business results becomes a constant challenge. Staying compliant with industry-specific standards, further adds to their problems.

How Is Radixweb Bridging the Gap?

Radixweb, from years of experience, understands that regulated industries face unique AI implementation obstacles. HIPAA, GDPR, and AML rules slow adoption and add complexity. That’s why as a software development partner, not just a vendor, they take a disciplined approach and integrate AI into existing systems in ways that improve work processes without creating new compliance risks.

They bank on their deep domain expertise and ISO 27001-certified practices to embed AI into mission-critical systems without disrupting existing workflows. This ensures measurable efficiency gains, cost reductions, and operational resilience across sectors like healthcare, legal, HR, logistics, and manufacturing.

The results are clear when looking at some of their recent projects:

• Healthcare: A large American hospital network could enhance patient reporting and intake with AI. The AI-powered system reduced data entry errors by 60% and cut administrative workload by 35%, while ensuring full HIPAA compliance.
• Legal: A global law firm cut down on delays in contract reviews and document searches with AI. Radixweb delivered a cloud-based document management system with AI search and summarization. This enabled lawyers to retrieve documents faster, spend less time on manual review, and collaborate securely across locations.
• HR: A tech startup could bring down recruitment costs and turnover with an AI-powered talent management platform. The system forecasted attrition, highlighted skills gaps, and gave HR leaders actionable insights while staying fully GDPR-compliant.
• Logistics and Manufacturing: AI-driven supply chain tracking cut shipment delays across thousands of shipments. In another manufacturing project, modular APIs paired with AI personalization were implemented to speed up content workflows by 40%. Built-in bias detection and audit trails were used to meet governance standards.

These are just a few examples of the work that Radixweb is doing in the AI software engineering and next-gen product development niche. With a focus on practical projects and not just promissory claims, Radixweb is attracting industry trust and confidence.

"The AI market is full of pilots that promise results but fail to deliver." said Dharmesh Acharya, COO at Radixweb, when asked about how he sees the industry's fascination with all things AI. He adds, "The difference between successful projects and failed fantasies comes from discipline. We ensure AI integrations are meaningful, the core engineering layer is strong, and the focus is always on driving business outcomes. We've helped enterprises gain efficiency without adding risk, and that has been possible by aligning AI deployment with both compliance and business goals."

While generative AI often dominates headlines, Radixweb focuses on back-office automation. Research has shown that reducing administrative burdens and speeding decision-making delivers the clearest returns. With that in mind, Radixweb’s AI deployments across healthcare, legal, HR, logistics, and manufacturing have cut errors, sped workflows, and improved efficiency—without creating compliance problems.

Radixweb favors incremental, modular deployments rather than large-scale overhauls. This approach allows CIOs to audit AI models, adjust them as rules change, and make sure automation does not compromise governance.

From AI Experiments to Enterprise Impact 

As enterprises move away from superficial AI pilots and plan impactful AI adoption, lessons from Radixweb's experiences are clear: technology alone is not enough. Success comes from careful engineering, compliance awareness, and a focus on measurable results. By reducing errors, speeding workflows, and embedding compliance checks, Radixweb helps organizations harness AI safely and effectively.

About Radixweb

Radixweb provides digital product engineering and AI-driven software development services to Fortune 500 clients across healthcare, law, manufacturing, edtech and more than 25 other sectors. The company has a 98% project success rate and more than 25 years of industry experience. Radixweb supports global organizations with scalable, compliant platforms and AI integrations that deliver measurable returns on investment. Learn more at radixweb.com.

Media Contact

Pratik Mistry
marketing@radixweb.com

StartX, the premier community for Stanford founders, has announced a major milestone: a new partnership with Stanford Research Park to serve as the anchor tenant of The Link, a purpose-built innovation hub set to open in early 2027.

This announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for StartX, reinforcing its long-term commitment to empowering Stanford’s most ambitious entrepreneurs.

“To be chosen by the Stanford Research Park to lead this transformative initiative is an immense honor,” said Shannon McClenaghan, CEO of StartX. “The Link offers our founders an exceptional advantage — a permanent home within the heart of Stanford’s innovation ecosystem. This partnership expands our ability to support world-class entrepreneurs with both the infrastructure and community they need to thrive.”

The Link will be located at 975 Page Mill Road, within Stanford Research Park, the 700-acre technology campus that has supported breakthroughs across Silicon Valley since 1951. The new 10,000-square-foot hub is designed to bring the StartX Community together — with space for events, founder-led programming, flexible meeting rooms, and a Coupa Café. Plans also include coworking areas to foster collaboration and connection.

“Our selection of StartX to anchor The Link represents a bold step towards realizing our vision for a truly integrated innovation center,” said Jamie Jarvis, Director of Strategic Programs for Stanford Research Park. “StartX’s unparalleled success in propelling Stanford-affiliated ventures into global leaders makes them the perfect partner to ignite this new hub. We anticipate that The Link will become a beacon for those striving to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.”

StartX began 15 years ago, in 2010, with a single goal: to support Stanford’s most ambitious entrepreneurs. Since then, it has evolved from an elite accelerator into one of the most prestigious founder communities in Silicon Valley. StartX companies have a combined valuation of $120 billion, raise an average of $42 million, and include 20 unicorns pioneering breakthroughs in AI, healthcare, energy, and more.

At its core, StartX has always been about what happens after the accelerator — the deep connections, shared experiences, and long-term commitment that founders give to each other. With a new home on the horizon, StartX is building on 15 years of impact and setting the stage for the next decade.

About StartX

StartX is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Stanford’s most accomplished and visionary entrepreneurs. Since 2010, the organization has supported over 2,700 founders across more than 1,300 companies, including 3 decacorns, over 20 unicorns, and more than 165 startups valued at over $100 million. What sets StartX apart is a trusted, founder-led community built on deep collaboration, shared experience, and long-term support. StartX takes no equity and charges no fees, choosing instead to invest in the potential of people and their ideas.

The mission of StartX is to support Stanford’s most ambitious founders with a trusted community, world-class resources, and the belief that the best companies are built together. With 15 years at the heart of Silicon Valley and Stanford’s innovation ecosystem, StartX offers unparalleled visibility into the next generation of groundbreaking technology, particularly in AI. Key verticals, including artificial intelligence, medicine, and energy, enable targeted knowledge-sharing and powerful peer connections across industries.

For more information, visit startx.com.

About Stanford Research Park

Since 1951, Stanford Research Park has been home to pioneers in high technology, automotive mobility, and life sciences. Its mission is to support the needs of more than 150 tenant companies so they can continue the Park’s legacy of innovation and build a bold future. Stanford Research Park is a community created for people who seek to invent the future.

Scores of Stanford alumni have launched or headquartered their companies within its borders, as have entrepreneurs from around the world who have joined this legacy of success. Founders choose Stanford Research Park for its access to Stanford University’s emerging research and talent, proximity to venture capital firms, and sustainable buildings in a stunning natural environment.

Media Contact

Julia Shoop
marketing@startx.com

Sen. Anna Caballero, author of SB 72, will host a press conference at the Capitol Cactus Garden on Monday, Sept. 8, at 10 a.m. to discuss the importance of passing and signing the landmark water legislation into law. Designed to address California’s water shortage, SB 72 has again passed the Assembly floor and is headed to the governor’s desk for signature.

“SB 72 offers the Assembly and the governor a clear opportunity to reaffirm California’s climate leadership and commitment. This bill is a critical next step toward securing our state’s water future in the face of escalating climate threats,” Caballero said. “This press conference is an opportunity to present a clear and compelling case for why this legislation matters — and why now is the time to act.”

The bill addresses the state's water supply challenges with multiple strategies to codify water supply targets, modernize the California Water Plan, and legislate reporting and collaboration among the water community — a novel approach to addressing the water threats in the state and the most significant legislation to improve statewide water planning and future water supply security for the fourth largest global economy in the last 10 years.

Backed by a broad coalition of water, environmental, business, public safety, and agricultural stakeholders, SB 72 is co-sponsored by the California Municipal Utilities Association, the California State Association of Counties, and the California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance, and would transform water management in California to:

• Establish necessary statewide water supply targets to capture and produce enough water for all uses.
• Require the state, water community, and stakeholders to work together to develop comprehensive, long-term water supply solutions.
• Enhance the California Water Plan to drought-proof the state.
• Complement Gov. Newsom’s water supply strategy to ensure water supply planning targets and action extend beyond any single administration.

The press conference will feature speakers and bill co-authors, co-sponsors, Craig Miller, general manager of Western Water and president of the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA); Joe Cruz, executive director of the California State Council of Laborers and member of the California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance (CCEEB); and Graham Knaus, CEO of California State Association of Counties (CSAC).

Additional details about the press conference are available here.

About CA Water For All

CA Water for All is a statewide effort seeking to educate policymakers about the urgent need for a legislative solution to address California’s ongoing water supply challenges. The effort is focused on bringing together the water community, policymakers and stakeholders to collaborate on ensuring Californians have a sustainable and reliable water supply for all beneficial uses now and for future generations. For more information, visit www.cawaterforall.com.

Media Contact

Meagan Luevano
mluevano@ka-pow.com
+1 916-603-1839

The hills outside Nador came alive as thousands of seekers from more than 30 countries gathered to celebrate the Mawlid of the Karkariya Sufi order. The annual festival honoring the birth of the Prophet Muhammad blended devotion, poetry, music, and the mesmerizing Hadra, a sacred dance of rhythm and unity led by Shaykh Mohamed Faouzi al-Karkari.

Throughout the night, participants joined in chants of remembrance, swaying together in circles that rose and fell with spiritual intensity. At the heart of this gathering was the Hadra, where synchronized movement and collective breath transformed into a living expression of faith. Guiding the dance, Shaykh Mohamed Faouzi al-Karkari embodied the order’s teachings of humility, beauty, and love, turning the ritual into both a sermon and a work of art.

Equally striking was the sight of the muraqqa, the distinctive patchwork cloak worn by the disciples. Brightly colored and sewn from pieces of different fabrics, the garment symbolizes the shedding of ego and worldly identity. In the Hadra, these cloaks became a moving mosaic, with Moroccans, Senegalese, French, Brazilians, Indonesians, and Americans stitched together into one rhythm. What could appear as scraps of cloth elsewhere here reflected a deeper truth: diverse lives woven together by devotion and love.

The celebration was not only a moment of spiritual renewal but also a cultural encounter. Food was shared generously, poems were recited, and prayers echoed through the tent that became a temporary home for thousands. The spirit of hospitality and harmony reinforced the order’s message that Sufism offers a universal language of the heart.

"The Mawlid celebration is a beautiful reminder that love and unity transcend borders," said Abdullah Elkammar, a disciple of the Karkariya order. "It is our hope that such gatherings inspire people to seek the inner transformation that Sufism offers and to embrace the principles of peace and understanding in their lives."

As dawn approached and the call to prayer filled the air, silence fell over the gathering. For many, the sight of cloaked dancers swaying in unison remained the most powerful memory. The Mawlid of the Karkariya demonstrated that faith can be expressed not only in reflection and prayer but also in rhythm, color, and the creative expression of the human spirit, offering a vision of peace and harmony that bridges cultures worldwide.

About Al-Karkari Institute

The Al-Karkari Institute aims to engage in research and discourse on the diverse dimensions of Sufism. By exploring the historical significance and contemporary relevance of tasawwuf, we aim to illuminate the path of Islamic inner transformation for a global audience of seekers.

Media Contact

Alan Noble
alan@karkari.org

From Sept. 8 to 12, 2025, the global mobility industry will once again turn its eyes to Munich. On this world-class stage for smart mobility innovation, GIRAFFEVISION — a pioneer redefining the driving experience through cutting-edge visual technology — will present its latest HUD solutions and immersive visual interaction experiences. We warmly invite you to visit us at Hall A2, Booth D10, and join us in an in-depth dialogue on intelligent visual interaction and the future of driving.

Headquartered in Singapore, GIRAFFEVISION operates with a global outlook. Guided by the mission "to show a better world with technology and innovation," GIRAFFEVISION is dedicated to advancing intelligent in-cabin visual interaction through technological innovation — building trust between humans and vehicles, and making driving safer, smarter, and more intuitive.

Our core team stems from a pioneering force in China’s HUD industry. To date, we have enhanced the driving experience for over two million users with clearer, smarter vision systems. Today, we are bringing this expertise and innovation to the global stage, committed to delivering greater value to our customers and working hand in hand with global partners to shape the next generation of immersive, intelligent in-vehicle experiences.

GIRAFFEVISION offers a complete portfolio of HUD solutions — including WHUD, AR-HUD, and PHUD — supported by a full stack of core technologies such as TFT, LCoS, and DLP. At this year’s exhibition, we invite you to explore the following cutting-edge innovations firsthand:

• GIRAFFEVISION HUD 2.0: Designed to reduce driver distraction and serve as an advanced alternative to traditional instrument clusters, HUD 2.0 features a 3.1-inch TFT display and dual internal mirrors, delivering large-format imaging with exceptional dynamic image stability while presenting rich, real-time driving information.
• GIRAFFEVISION HUD 3.0: An upgraded version of its predecessor, HUD 3.0 is equipped with a 4.1-inch TFT display and dual free-form mirrors, capable of projecting a 56-inch virtual image. Thanks to its high-performance architecture, HUD 3.0 can be seamlessly integrated with the AR Cyber system to enable full AR-HUD functionality.
• GIRAFFEVISION HUD 4.0: Featuring advanced local dimming technology, HUD 4.0 significantly enhances brightness in low-light conditions while reducing power consumption by 30% and improving thermal resistance by 30%. It also maintains superior peak brightness in high-light environments, delivering enhanced image quality and an optimized user experience.
• GIRAFFEVISION Ultimate Mirror HUD 5.0: A game-changer in automotive display, HUD 5.0 sets a new benchmark with 2K resolution (1920x1080), achieving an angular resolution of 152 pixels per degree for ultra-clear viewing from multiple angles. Its outstanding performance stems from the integration of 2K imaging and dynamic backlight control technology. The latter, driven by sophisticated algorithms, provides precise light modulation — highlighting bright details while preserving deep contrast in darker areas. This synergy delivers unmatched display clarity and elevates the in-cabin visual experience, redefining industry standards and steering the evolution of premium HUD displays.
• GIRAFFEVISION Deep Scenes AR HUD: As the industry’s first product to feature a coaxial dual-focal-plane design combined with local dimming technology, this AR HUD delivers an enhanced sense of visual depth by synchronizing far and near virtual display planes. It effectively integrates traditional instrument information with AR-based immersive visuals.
• Both display layers offer large image fields: A 130.8-inch far-field canvas that hosts the majority of AR and background content; and a 29-inch near-field canvas dedicated to stereoscopic visuals and instrument display functions. Instrument data is presented with clarity, while AR content is layered and immersive, offering a multi-dimensional visual experience.
• GIRAFFEVISION Slope+Parallel: GIRAFFEVISION Slope+Parallel is one of the next-generation products currently under development. The slope HUD features a virtual image distance ranging from 6.5 to 11 meters, delivering improved depth perception and more realistic ground-level AR integration — aligned with natural human visual habits. Combined with PHUD’s vehicle-wide shared visual interaction capabilities and high availability, the system reduces the need for frequent visual refocusing, allowing drivers to maintain greater concentration on the road.
• IV G1 Cockpit: GIRAFFEVISION integrates a coaxial dual-focal-plane AR HUD and PHUD into the IV G1 Cockpit, enabling precise, scenario-based information scheduling. This system intelligently adapts to various driving conditions — such as urban commuting, highway cruising, parking, and off-road driving — by delivering differentiated information strategies. Through this approach, it builds a "scene–priority–content" hierarchical model, ensuring that the right information is displayed at the right time, based on driving context and user needs.

A global wave of innovation is reshaping the future of mobility. At IAA MOBILITY, GIRAFFEVISION will showcase a proven portfolio of core products that embody an unwavering commitment to safety and efficiency. Through immersive experience zones, you will gain a direct, hands-on understanding of the limitless possibilities of future mobility. These interactive demonstrations will vividly illustrate how intelligent visual technologies are revitalizing the mobility ecosystem — making the future not only visible, but tangible.

We believe the future of mobility goes beyond "driving" — it's about a new way of perceiving the world and traveling safely. We warmly invite you to visit us at Hall A2, Booth D10, and join GIRAFFEVISION in witnessing how smart visual systems are reshaping the driving experience and redefining the boundaries of safe mobility.

About GIRAFFEVISION

GIRAFFEVISION is a technology-driven enterprise that integrates research and development, manufacturing and services. The company is dedicated to its mission: “To show a better world with technology and innovation.” Positioned to become a leading global provider of in-vehicle vision solutions, GIRAFFEVISION creates value for customers, builds a strong presence in the automotive vision sector, and collaborates with global partners to shape a future where virtual and real worlds merge seamlessly.

As a pioneer in smart cockpit visual and interaction solutions, GIRAFFEVISION provides comprehensive offerings, including its W-HUD solution, CyberLens, and its AR-HUD solution, CyberVision, along with other advanced visual technologies. From the earliest stages of product development, the company works closely with OEMs to co-create new vehicle models that elevate human-vehicle interaction and enhance intelligent driving experiences.

For more information, visit www.giraffe-vision.com.

Media Contact

Jennifer Liu
xuanliu@giraffe-vision.com

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (“NetDragon” or the “Company”; Hong Kong stock exchange:0777), a global leader in building internet communities, was invited to participate in UNESCO’s Digital Learning Week, held from Sept. 2 to 5 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, under the theme “AI and the Future of Education.”

NetDragon was featured at key events including the opening ceremony and parallel forums. As the only corporate invitee, it joined over 30 education ministers and senior officials from the UK, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Türkiye, the UAE and other nations at the Ministerial Roundtable.

Dr. Simon Leung, vice chairman of NetDragon, emphasized in his address at the opening ceremony that the future of education must be a collaboration that transcends academic boundaries and national frontiers, enabled by technology.

During the event, NetDragon showcased a range of its AI education capabilities and products and  also explained why Open-Quest Academy (“Open-Q”)  chose to partner with NetDragon. Among the featured innovations were the interactive AI digital human, the Promethean ActivPanel 10 interactive panel, the ROKID AR immersive learning experience, and the “E-Library for Teachers.” The demonstrations drew global attention and garnered acclaim from international attendees.

Addressing Global Content Creation Challenges

Since the resurgence of large language models (LLMs) in 2023, AI has been a key driver in the acceleration of digital education worldwide. Dr. Leung underscored the transformative role of AI in education at the event.

The global education community continues to grapple with significant challenges, including the shortage and uneven distribution of education resources, as well as the excessive concentration of content within limited regions and languages. During the pandemic, over 500 million students lacked remote learning access, 72% of whom were in underserved regions. Meanwhile, 90% of open educational resources originate from Western countries, with the majority dominated by English.

To address these gaps, NetDragon created the AI Content Factory–a scalable, cost-efficient platform for culturally adaptive content production. By transforming educators’ tacit knowledge into structured data and enabling intelligent multi-agent collaboration across the content creation lifecycle, the AI Content Factory creates a self-improving system that combines human oversight with scalable AI-driven production. Its dual-cycle quality control mechanism integrates real-time teacher feedback and expert reviews, ensuring both accuracy and continuous improvement.

A prime example is the AI Education Platform launched in partnership with Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) in May 2025. The platform provides AI-powered vocational training to students and young people across Thailand, aligning with the nation’s “Education 6.0” strategy while supporting growth in high-potential fields like AI, electric vehicles, and semiconductors. Beyond Thailand, with support from the World Bank, NetDragon is also advancing digital school transformation in countries including Cameroon. Going forward, the company will continue to leverage the AI Content Factory to deliver highly customized education solutions worldwide.

Partnership with Open-Q

NetDragon, together with the attending guests, witnessed the launch of Open-Q. Open-Q is an open, future-oriented education ecosystem. With education hubs and content creation centers worldwide, Open-Q brings together experts, teachers, and practitioners to collaborate on metaverse-based learning and teaching platforms. Anchored in its three core principles — technology for equity, co-creation of resources, and incentive-driven participation — Open-Q delivers high-quality, localized digital content to advance equitable and effective education worldwide.

Data shows that the unemployment rate among bachelor’s degree holders aged 20 to 24 has risen by 29% over the past four to five years. In certain fields, such as IT and computer engineering, the rate has surged more than 100% compared with 2018–2019. Amid this challenge, Open-Q is harnessing the power of AI to provide new opportunities and guidance for the future. A core feature of Open-Q is its “Learn-and-Earn” model, a learning community where learners acquire job-ready skills, educators are rewarded for high-quality contributions, and the entire ecosystem benefits from an expanding shared knowledge base.

The decision to partner with NetDragon is grounded in the Company's demonstrated expertise in platform development, proven through multiple country-level initiatives. The Company's collaborative history with UNESCO-affiliated institutions further solidified this partnership. In 2021, NetDragon jointly launched the “E-Library for Teachers” with UNESCO IITE — a platform that now supports more than 100,000 educators worldwide, demonstrating NetDragon's sustained commitment to promoting educational equity through technology.

Looking ahead, NetDragon will leverage its AI Content Factory as a core AI engine to deepen collaborations with UNESCO, national governments, leading global universities, and corporations. Together, they aim to create an educational ecosystem that transcends academic boundaries and national borders — accelerating the vision of a future where everyone can learn anywhere, anytime.

For a video overview of NetDragon’s showcase at UNESCO Digital Learning Week 2025, watch here.

About NetDragon

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (Hong Kong stock exchange:0777) is a global leader in building internet communities, with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users. Over the desktop and mobile internet eras, NetDragon previously established China’s first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China’s most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless. 

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Conquer Online, Heroes Evolved and Under Oath. In the past 10 years, NetDragon has also achieved success with its edtech business both domestically and globally. Fully embracing the new AI era, NetDragon is driving its vision of “Infinite Growth” through a dual-focus strategy of “AI+Gaming” and “AI+Education.” With its AI Content Factory empowering operations and working with partners to develop a global learning metaverse, NetDragon is committed to once again building a massive user community in the new AI era.

NetDragon’s overseas edtech business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named Mynd.ai, is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 1 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries.

For more information, visit www.nd.com.cn.

Media Contact

Gillian Wang
ccpa@nd.com.cn

The air hummed, not with modern electric currents, but with a mesmerizing symphony of devotional chants. The invocations rose and fell, interwoven with rhythmic breathing and the soft, insistent tap of drums. This was the sound of remembrance, an intonation both ancient and urgent, rising from the plains outside Nador on the night of Sept. 4, 2025.

Here, beneath a sky pinpricked with stars, thousands of seekers from over 30 nations—from the bustling cityscapes of Europe to the suburbs of North America, from remote corners of Asia to the plains of Africa—gathered in a testament to an enduring spiritual pull that defies borders. They converged on the spiritual heartland of the Karkariya Sufi order for the Mawlid, the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad.

Sufism is often described as the mystical or inward dimension of Islam, a path focused on purifying the heart and achieving direct, personal experience of God. Practitioners, known as Sufis, seek to transform their inner selves through practices of remembrance, meditation, and mentorship under a spiritual guide. Central to this tradition is an intense love and reverence for the Prophet Muhammad, who is seen as the ultimate model of spiritual perfection.

This veneration finds its most joyous expression in the Mawlid, a celebration of the Prophet's birth that for many Sufis is a high point of the spiritual year. It is a time for communities to gather for prayers, listen to poems praising the Prophet's life and character, share food, and express gratitude for the message he brought. For the disciples of the Karkariya, this particular Mawlid, held inside a vast tent erected beside the order’s spiritual compound (zawiya), was a soul-altering, night-long vigil.

From dusk until the first light of the dawn prayer (fajr), this temporary sanctuary became a microcosm of the world, defined not by national identity, but by a shared quest for divine love. The night unfolded in waves of spiritual intensity. It began with the night prayer (isha), followed by hours of communal dhikr—a rhythmic, repetitive invocation of God’s names that swelled and subsided, drawing participants into a unified state of meditative presence.

Visually, the gathering was a sea of vibrant color. The disciples, known as fuqara (the spiritual poor), were clad in the distinctive muraqqa—a brightly colored patched cloak. In the context of the Mawlid, this garment took on a profound significance. “The muraqqa strips you of your ego, of your worldly identity,” explained Abdullah, a senior computer scientist who had traveled from his home in the suburbs of Indianapolis, a world away from this Moroccan hillside.

“Back home, I’m defined by my job, my neighborhood, my Americanness,” he said, gesturing to the human mosaic around him. “Here, we wear this patchwork to symbolize that we have shed these external labels. Like these patches, we are all different pieces from different cloths—Moroccan, Senegalese, French, Brazilian, Indonesian, American—sewn together by a single thread: the love of the Prophet. Tonight, we are one body, one fabric.” The cloak, traditionally a sign of asceticism, here became a uniform of unity.

The Karkariya offers a contemporary revivalist expression of the ancient Shadhiliya Sufi order. Its global appeal is a distinctly modern phenomenon, attracting a diverse mix of Western converts and seekers from the Muslim world. Consequently, their zawiya near Al Aaroui has become a major destination for this unique spiritual synthesis of ancient tradition and modern, global identity.

As the night deepened, the assembly’s energy crested into the Hadra, a powerful, swaying spiritual dance of synchronized movement and chanting that aims to elevate the heart. At the pulsating center of the circle, the order’s spiritual guide, Shaykh Mohamed Faouzi al-Karkari, danced among his disciples, his movements anchoring the wave of collective devotion. This was more than a ritual; it was a physical sermon. In each synchronized breath and step, the gathering became a living embodiment of the principles the Shaykh had been instilling in the attendees all week: a commemoration of the Prophet’s community, founded on beauty, love, and profound humility.

The communal spirit extended beyond worship. Generous dishes of food were served well into the night, a remarkable display of hospitality that ensured every guest was nourished. Among the attendees was Aziz, a Tunisian graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in engineering in Germany. For him, the journey was a pilgrimage in search of a spiritual home.

“In Europe, it can be a challenge to find a living, heart-based Islam,” Aziz explained. “Much of the discourse is political or rigidly dogmatic. I was yearning for the ‘why’—for the love that is the engine of our faith. This Mawlid is the ‘why.’ Look at this unity. We are praying next to people we could never otherwise meet, learning a universal language of the heart. For me, this is the true inheritance of the Prophet’s message.”

The all-night vigil is a central Sufi practice, intended to disrupt the routines of the ego and open the heart to spiritual realities. For the Karkariya, this practice serves a more distinct and foundational purpose: to facilitate the vision of divine light. Their teachings emphasize that this is not a metaphor, but a direct perception witnessed with the "eye of the heart." This luminous experience is considered the very foundation of their spiritual path, turning abstract faith (iman) into a perceived reality.

As the hours passed and physical exhaustion set in, many participants spoke of heightened spiritual awareness and a profound sense of release. Tears flowed freely at the climax of the chanting—not from sorrow, but from an overwhelming sense of gratitude and connection.

The final crescendo came with the ethereal sound of the call (adhan) to the dawn prayer. As it echoed across the hushed tent, a deep, resonant silence fell upon the thousands who had stood, swayed, and chanted for hours. With one final prayer, the night was over.

As the sun cast its first rays over the Moroccan countryside, the intense energy of the vigil softened, but the tent did not empty. For Abdullah, Aziz, and thousands of others wrapped in their colorful cloaks, the climax of the Mawlid was not an ending, but the heart of a more profound immersion. Their journey was far from over. Most would remain for the entire week of celebrations, entering a state of temporary renunciation, disconnected from the jobs and worldly demands that await them across the globe. It is a sacred pause, a time to fully absorb the teachings, live in spiritual community, and renew their commitment to the Muhammadan path of love, before carrying the sustained charge of this sacred week back into a fragmented world.

Media Contact

Alan Noble
alan@karkari.org