Seminar on VAT in Angola
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board, in partnership with Deloitte, one of the leading companies in consulting, taxes, financial services, hosted a seminar on the crucial relevance of VAT its impact in Angola.
Angola has seen many changes to its economy in the past few years, since the crash of the oil prices and currency devaluation. From the 1 October 2019 onwards, Angola is on the list of countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) that charge Value Added Tax (VAT) with a flat rate of 14%.
The VAT will initially be charged to 1,600 companies registered with the Tax Office of Large Taxpayers and others that have voluntarily joined the general scheme.
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board promoted a seminar that brought key ideas on a topic of crucial relevance about VAT implementation and its impact, and where 70 business entrepreneurs of the Jamat were present.
https://the.ismaili/news/seminar-vat-angola
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board Activities
Google translation of the original article in Portuguese:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/sabia-que- ... do-mercado
Did you know that you can rent houses at prices below the market?
Discover the affordable rental program now. It is intended to increase the offer of houses at reduced prices in view of the current market values. Know the details.
What are the benefits?
Landlords who join the Affordable Lease Program (PAA) will benefit from full exemption from IRS and IRC on rent charged. Those who rent under this program will be able to benefit from housing with a reduced value of around 20% compared to market prices.
Who can apply?
On the landlord side, it can be any natural or legal person, public or private. For those who want to rent, it can also be a person, family or group, but it is dependent on the gross annual income. In the case of a single person, to benefit from this program, you can earn a maximum of € 35,000 gross per year; if it is a couple it goes up to 45 thousand €. For each child (or extra person in the household) the limit increases by € 5 thousand. Students, who do not have their own income, can also apply, provided the income is paid by third parties. In addition, tenants' effort rate is also taken into account: according to PAA rules, the rent must represent 15 to 35% of the average monthly income.
What rooms are available?
There will be contracts for permanent residence or temporary residence, for students, for example (as long as they are enrolled in a university and the tax domicile is in a different municipality from where they will study). It will also be possible to make a total lease of houses and apartments, or partial, if they are rooms.
What are the terms for the contracts?
Permanent residence contracts have a minimum term of five years. Then they can be renewed for periods to be defined between the two parties. Contracts for temporary residence have a minimum term of 9 months.
What are the housing conditions?
According to the PAA criteria, the house or room must ensure minimum conditions of safety, hygiene and comfort and must not have problems that hinder the normal use of space. For example:
• There must be at least one room (bedroom or living room) with natural lighting and ventilation
• Only a room that is more than six square meters can be considered, with natural lighting and ventilation through a window, glass door or balcony in contact direct to the outside
• Must have at least one bathroom with washbasin, toilet, flushing toilet and a shower or bathtub
• There must be at least one kitchen or space with a sink, stove and refrigerator installed
• It must have adequate and functioning installations of electricity, water and sewage
How are home prices set?
The values ​​are calculated according to a specific formula, which takes into account: the area, the quality of the accommodation, the location and the median value of rents per square meter of new lease agreements.
What are the limits for rents?
The maximum limits for the amount of monthly income are published in Diário da República and are divided into six levels, which include all municipalities in the country. Some examples:
• In the 308 Portuguese municipalities, more than half (165) are in step 1, with the lowest values, which vary between € 200 for a T0 and € 525 for a T5.
• Lisbon is the only municipality in step 6, that is, the one with the highest rents: the limit for a T0 is 600 €, T1 up to 900 €, T2 up to 1,150 €, T3 up to 1,375 €, T4 up to 1,550 €, T5 up to € 1,700 and above T5 € 150 per room.
• The municipalities of Cascais, Oeiras and Porto are in the 5th level. The 4th tier has 12 municipalities - Albufeira, Almada, Amadora, Castro Marim, Funchal, Lagos, Loulé, Loures, Matosinhos, Odivelas, Sintra and Tavira.
The final rent values ​​can be consulted on the PAA platform, in which both landlords and tenants can make simulations to see if the application benefits them.
How are contracts concluded?
The lease is concluded between the landlord and the tenant. They can meet in person, through the PAA housing portal or through real estate agents. The contract must be registered on the Finance Portal and sent to the PAA Management Entity, in order to have access to the tax benefit.
What is required?
There are several mandatory insurance policies. Owners will have to take out insurance to guarantee compensation for non-payment of rent. Tenants, on the other hand, must have coverage for involuntary loss of income and damage to the property. Because these insurances are mandatory, landlords should not require tenants to have guarantors or collateral. However, until insurance is available, this may be an alternative. Higher education students or those who are attending vocational training courses and do not have their own income are not obliged to take out these insurances.
How can you apply?
On the PAA electronic platform. To do this, you need to provide the following information:
• Purpose and type of lease (permanent or temporary residence; complete or roomed residence)
• Details of people who will live in the dwelling (name, date of birth, citizen's card number, tax identification number and e-mail)
• Declaration of income of each of the candidates
In the case of students, it is also necessary to mention:
• Fixed monthly amount for the payment of the rent
• Guarantor data
• If the purpose is temporary residence of students, you must indicate the county of the tax domicile
• Proof university application
• Statement of bail
After making the application, the platform issues a certificate, valid for seven days, with all information about the candidates and the property and a declaration that must be signed by all candidates.
For more information visit the Housing Portal: http://portaldahabitacao.pt
Source: https://www.portaldahabitacao.pt/
https://the.ismaili/portugal/sabia-que- ... do-mercado
Did you know that you can rent houses at prices below the market?
Discover the affordable rental program now. It is intended to increase the offer of houses at reduced prices in view of the current market values. Know the details.
What are the benefits?
Landlords who join the Affordable Lease Program (PAA) will benefit from full exemption from IRS and IRC on rent charged. Those who rent under this program will be able to benefit from housing with a reduced value of around 20% compared to market prices.
Who can apply?
On the landlord side, it can be any natural or legal person, public or private. For those who want to rent, it can also be a person, family or group, but it is dependent on the gross annual income. In the case of a single person, to benefit from this program, you can earn a maximum of € 35,000 gross per year; if it is a couple it goes up to 45 thousand €. For each child (or extra person in the household) the limit increases by € 5 thousand. Students, who do not have their own income, can also apply, provided the income is paid by third parties. In addition, tenants' effort rate is also taken into account: according to PAA rules, the rent must represent 15 to 35% of the average monthly income.
What rooms are available?
There will be contracts for permanent residence or temporary residence, for students, for example (as long as they are enrolled in a university and the tax domicile is in a different municipality from where they will study). It will also be possible to make a total lease of houses and apartments, or partial, if they are rooms.
What are the terms for the contracts?
Permanent residence contracts have a minimum term of five years. Then they can be renewed for periods to be defined between the two parties. Contracts for temporary residence have a minimum term of 9 months.
What are the housing conditions?
According to the PAA criteria, the house or room must ensure minimum conditions of safety, hygiene and comfort and must not have problems that hinder the normal use of space. For example:
• There must be at least one room (bedroom or living room) with natural lighting and ventilation
• Only a room that is more than six square meters can be considered, with natural lighting and ventilation through a window, glass door or balcony in contact direct to the outside
• Must have at least one bathroom with washbasin, toilet, flushing toilet and a shower or bathtub
• There must be at least one kitchen or space with a sink, stove and refrigerator installed
• It must have adequate and functioning installations of electricity, water and sewage
How are home prices set?
The values ​​are calculated according to a specific formula, which takes into account: the area, the quality of the accommodation, the location and the median value of rents per square meter of new lease agreements.
What are the limits for rents?
The maximum limits for the amount of monthly income are published in Diário da República and are divided into six levels, which include all municipalities in the country. Some examples:
• In the 308 Portuguese municipalities, more than half (165) are in step 1, with the lowest values, which vary between € 200 for a T0 and € 525 for a T5.
• Lisbon is the only municipality in step 6, that is, the one with the highest rents: the limit for a T0 is 600 €, T1 up to 900 €, T2 up to 1,150 €, T3 up to 1,375 €, T4 up to 1,550 €, T5 up to € 1,700 and above T5 € 150 per room.
• The municipalities of Cascais, Oeiras and Porto are in the 5th level. The 4th tier has 12 municipalities - Albufeira, Almada, Amadora, Castro Marim, Funchal, Lagos, Loulé, Loures, Matosinhos, Odivelas, Sintra and Tavira.
The final rent values ​​can be consulted on the PAA platform, in which both landlords and tenants can make simulations to see if the application benefits them.
How are contracts concluded?
The lease is concluded between the landlord and the tenant. They can meet in person, through the PAA housing portal or through real estate agents. The contract must be registered on the Finance Portal and sent to the PAA Management Entity, in order to have access to the tax benefit.
What is required?
There are several mandatory insurance policies. Owners will have to take out insurance to guarantee compensation for non-payment of rent. Tenants, on the other hand, must have coverage for involuntary loss of income and damage to the property. Because these insurances are mandatory, landlords should not require tenants to have guarantors or collateral. However, until insurance is available, this may be an alternative. Higher education students or those who are attending vocational training courses and do not have their own income are not obliged to take out these insurances.
How can you apply?
On the PAA electronic platform. To do this, you need to provide the following information:
• Purpose and type of lease (permanent or temporary residence; complete or roomed residence)
• Details of people who will live in the dwelling (name, date of birth, citizen's card number, tax identification number and e-mail)
• Declaration of income of each of the candidates
In the case of students, it is also necessary to mention:
• Fixed monthly amount for the payment of the rent
• Guarantor data
• If the purpose is temporary residence of students, you must indicate the county of the tax domicile
• Proof university application
• Statement of bail
After making the application, the platform issues a certificate, valid for seven days, with all information about the candidates and the property and a declaration that must be signed by all candidates.
For more information visit the Housing Portal: http://portaldahabitacao.pt
Source: https://www.portaldahabitacao.pt/
AKEB and Fire Tech Coding Club
The AKEB UK’s Future Skills agenda focuses on developing the skills that children will need in the coming years to succeed in our rapidly-changing world.
Technology has an everlasting influence on our society and economy, and due to its constant development, 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 have yet to be created. This highlights the importance of technology within our changing society and the skills needed for the future workforce.
Many of the skills that are important for the future – including critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving – can come from learning to use tools that allow us to control technology. These skills enable children to be versatile in a world where transitions through various jobs are inevitable. This is why the Coding Club is more than just learning how to code: it is a platform from which children can not only develop technological skills, but also be inspired to engage with technology in the future.
Taking place at The Ismaili Centre over five weeks, the Coding Club, delivered with Fire Tech, was an opportunity for the children to learn how to code in a friendly and open environment. Some had no previous exposure to coding while others were more experienced. The participants were split into two groups (based on their ages – which ranged from 9 to 17) and were assigned tasks with the goal of developing their coding skills along with other soft skills such as communication and teamwork. The sessions were interactive through the use of programmable robots and animation creation tools, and thought-provoking by engaging students to think about smart solutions to coding related problems. This enabled the participants to learn a range of new techniques, including eventually introducing them to learn how to code using Microbits. Microbits are small pocket-sized computers which can be programmed into thermometers, fitbits, and even games. By exciting their curiosity and engaging them with technology, they are developing the all-important skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
The Coding Club offered children the opportunity to meet Ismaili brothers and sisters of the same age with common interests. During the final week of the programme, the participants gave a presentation on what coding means to them and how it is an asset to the AKDN and the Jamat. Coding is an asset to the Jamat because it shows what the future holds for the younger generation. For example, educating our youth with knowledge of how to code and the benefits of coding means that in the future our young leaders will be able to create programmes and apps that the institutions can make use of. Some notable quotes from parents of children who attended Coding Club include: “My daughter really enjoyed the course and the content was just perfect for this age group.”, “The programme helped in growing children's knowledge and confidence”, “My son absolutely loved this course and was sad on the last day as he wanted it to continue”.
The Coding Club is one of AKEB’s initiatives to develop children’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics capabilities. Other activities include “Tech Jams” – a two-day hackathon, a Space Camp, and Science Fair. By exposing our children to as many STEM opportunities as possible, we will keep enhancing the skills that are most relevant in the coming years. We have entered the fourth industrial revolution – the era of technological intelligence (the first three being steam, electricity and computers). This is, and will continue to, transform our lives. We must now look forward and prepare the future generations to obtain the skillset needed by offering courses to garner their long term interest in these fields, in order to capitalise on the opportunities that will present themselves in the future.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/akeb ... oding-club
The AKEB UK’s Future Skills agenda focuses on developing the skills that children will need in the coming years to succeed in our rapidly-changing world.
Technology has an everlasting influence on our society and economy, and due to its constant development, 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 have yet to be created. This highlights the importance of technology within our changing society and the skills needed for the future workforce.
Many of the skills that are important for the future – including critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving – can come from learning to use tools that allow us to control technology. These skills enable children to be versatile in a world where transitions through various jobs are inevitable. This is why the Coding Club is more than just learning how to code: it is a platform from which children can not only develop technological skills, but also be inspired to engage with technology in the future.
Taking place at The Ismaili Centre over five weeks, the Coding Club, delivered with Fire Tech, was an opportunity for the children to learn how to code in a friendly and open environment. Some had no previous exposure to coding while others were more experienced. The participants were split into two groups (based on their ages – which ranged from 9 to 17) and were assigned tasks with the goal of developing their coding skills along with other soft skills such as communication and teamwork. The sessions were interactive through the use of programmable robots and animation creation tools, and thought-provoking by engaging students to think about smart solutions to coding related problems. This enabled the participants to learn a range of new techniques, including eventually introducing them to learn how to code using Microbits. Microbits are small pocket-sized computers which can be programmed into thermometers, fitbits, and even games. By exciting their curiosity and engaging them with technology, they are developing the all-important skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
The Coding Club offered children the opportunity to meet Ismaili brothers and sisters of the same age with common interests. During the final week of the programme, the participants gave a presentation on what coding means to them and how it is an asset to the AKDN and the Jamat. Coding is an asset to the Jamat because it shows what the future holds for the younger generation. For example, educating our youth with knowledge of how to code and the benefits of coding means that in the future our young leaders will be able to create programmes and apps that the institutions can make use of. Some notable quotes from parents of children who attended Coding Club include: “My daughter really enjoyed the course and the content was just perfect for this age group.”, “The programme helped in growing children's knowledge and confidence”, “My son absolutely loved this course and was sad on the last day as he wanted it to continue”.
The Coding Club is one of AKEB’s initiatives to develop children’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics capabilities. Other activities include “Tech Jams” – a two-day hackathon, a Space Camp, and Science Fair. By exposing our children to as many STEM opportunities as possible, we will keep enhancing the skills that are most relevant in the coming years. We have entered the fourth industrial revolution – the era of technological intelligence (the first three being steam, electricity and computers). This is, and will continue to, transform our lives. We must now look forward and prepare the future generations to obtain the skillset needed by offering courses to garner their long term interest in these fields, in order to capitalise on the opportunities that will present themselves in the future.
https://the.ismaili/united-kingdom/akeb ... oding-club
Google translation of the article in Portuguese:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/n%C3%A3o-p ... ial-direta
Do not waste time in lines with Social Security Direct
The Direct Social Security Portal is an online service that gives you the possibility to communicate with Social Security over the Internet, without the "hassle" of having to go to the personal service counters, reducing waiting time.
This platform is fast, effective, safe and totally free, being available to individuals and companies and allowing to consult records, answer questions and even request changes to some citizen information and records.
What operations can I do on the direct social security portal?
# 1 - Current account
On the Direct Social Security portal you can deal with matters related to your current account related to the entity's payments and receipts.
You can find out about your contributory situation, see if you have debts or processes in tax foreclosure and pay them.
In this section you can also consult and change direct debit authorizations, change your bank account and consult or issue payment declarations, among other matters related to your contributory situation.
# 2 - Family
The Social Security portal also gives you the possibility to deal with matters related to child benefit, such as the application for declaration of step, request for prenatal care and also to deal with issues related to child benefit. parenting and other benefits you can benefit from.
# 3 - Employment
In this section you have access to your history of wages declared by employers. You can also issue the unemployment benefit declaration and consult the status of your activity if you are self-employed.
# 4 - Illness
It is also possible to deal with matters related to illness, namely issuing a declaration for subsidy and obtaining a European Health Insurance Card.
# 5 - Social Action
In this section you can request social support, communicate monthly frequencies of users and consult the family benefits of children and / or young people who are in charge of institutions.
# 6 - Pensions
Finally, it is also possible to access pension simulators, apply for an old-age pension, as well as consult the status of the application, consult annual remunerations declared by employers and also deal with matters related to Retirement Certificates.
How to access the Social Security Portal?
To access the portal, you will first have to register and then you will have access to your user area.
Step 1: Access the Direct Social Security website.
Step 2: Select the option “Register”.
Step 3: Enter your Social Security Identification Number (NISS).
Step 4: Fill in the form with the requested personal data (name, date of birth, Citizen Card number and Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Step 5: Enter contact details (e-mail and telephone contacts).
Step 6: Select how you want to receive the verification code (SMS or email).
Step 7: Enter the verification code to activate your account and set the password.
Step 8: Access your user area by entering your NISS and password. These will be the data you will need to log in every time you want to access the Social Security portal.
More information at: http://www.seg-social.pt
Source: Social Security Institute official website http://www.seg-social.pt
https://the.ismaili/portugal/n%C3%A3o-p ... ial-direta
Do not waste time in lines with Social Security Direct
The Direct Social Security Portal is an online service that gives you the possibility to communicate with Social Security over the Internet, without the "hassle" of having to go to the personal service counters, reducing waiting time.
This platform is fast, effective, safe and totally free, being available to individuals and companies and allowing to consult records, answer questions and even request changes to some citizen information and records.
What operations can I do on the direct social security portal?
# 1 - Current account
On the Direct Social Security portal you can deal with matters related to your current account related to the entity's payments and receipts.
You can find out about your contributory situation, see if you have debts or processes in tax foreclosure and pay them.
In this section you can also consult and change direct debit authorizations, change your bank account and consult or issue payment declarations, among other matters related to your contributory situation.
# 2 - Family
The Social Security portal also gives you the possibility to deal with matters related to child benefit, such as the application for declaration of step, request for prenatal care and also to deal with issues related to child benefit. parenting and other benefits you can benefit from.
# 3 - Employment
In this section you have access to your history of wages declared by employers. You can also issue the unemployment benefit declaration and consult the status of your activity if you are self-employed.
# 4 - Illness
It is also possible to deal with matters related to illness, namely issuing a declaration for subsidy and obtaining a European Health Insurance Card.
# 5 - Social Action
In this section you can request social support, communicate monthly frequencies of users and consult the family benefits of children and / or young people who are in charge of institutions.
# 6 - Pensions
Finally, it is also possible to access pension simulators, apply for an old-age pension, as well as consult the status of the application, consult annual remunerations declared by employers and also deal with matters related to Retirement Certificates.
How to access the Social Security Portal?
To access the portal, you will first have to register and then you will have access to your user area.
Step 1: Access the Direct Social Security website.
Step 2: Select the option “Register”.
Step 3: Enter your Social Security Identification Number (NISS).
Step 4: Fill in the form with the requested personal data (name, date of birth, Citizen Card number and Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Step 5: Enter contact details (e-mail and telephone contacts).
Step 6: Select how you want to receive the verification code (SMS or email).
Step 7: Enter the verification code to activate your account and set the password.
Step 8: Access your user area by entering your NISS and password. These will be the data you will need to log in every time you want to access the Social Security portal.
More information at: http://www.seg-social.pt
Source: Social Security Institute official website http://www.seg-social.pt
Finding a balance between empowerment and wealth
Having financial security plays an important role in securing your own quality of life and standard of living, but where do we draw the line between economic empowerment and the desire for excessive wealth?
Often, we think of balance as a scale: having equal weights on either side. In reality, balance may not be what it seems. Instead, it can be thought of as a pendulum. It’s about finding what’s right for you. There isn’t a one size fits all, especially when it comes to wealth.
Wealth is a tricky area in which to find balance. Modern society tends to glorify the ultra-wealthy and encourages us to strive towards living a glamorous lifestyle. Having financial security plays an important role in securing your own quality of life and standard of living, however, where do we draw the line between economic empowerment and the desire for excessive wealth?
It is human nature to constantly crave more. Corporations have made an industry out of tapping into the consumerist desires of our psyche. We tie our happiness to our net worth and the things we own, but how is it that someone with less wealth can be just as happy? When we start to fill voids in our life by surrounding ourselves with material things, it can create an imbalance in our lives and we often desire and crave more. This creates an unhealthy greed for excessive wealth.
So what does it mean to have economic empowerment? What does economic empowerment look like for different individuals? Having a safety blanket and ensuring our essential needs are taken care of is extremely important but what next? Once we have the security in place for ourselves and our families, why do we continue to chase wealth?
As a society, we tend to look at money as a finite resource. We sometimes think that there is only X amount out there and we need to get as much of it as we can before it runs out. Throughout societies around the world, we see an abundance of fraudulent investments. Part of this stems from the concept of a finite amount of wealth. What we fail to realize is that global financial systems are built upon an abundance of money, and so there’s always going to be both risks and opportunities. Once we can start shifting our mindset to understand this, we can start to move towards true economic empowerment and finding a balance in our lives.
I live the life of a typical first generation Canadian. My parents immigrated to Canada from Tanzania in the late 1980s. Like the majority of immigrant families, my parents moved here because it represents a land of opportunity. Nothing is impossible. For my parents, economic empowerment was having a secure income and the ability to build the life they had dreamed of halfway across the world. The sacrifices they made allow me the luxury of having the choices I do today. I can choose to do what I am passionate about and if it doesn’t work out, that’s okay, there’s always going to be some other opportunity for me to fall back on. Wealth is not a means to an end. Following my passions, not limiting my dreams, and not having wealth control my decisions is truly empowering.
Part of getting our mindset to shift to think this way is understanding wealth and being financially literate in our own lives. Spreading the knowledge of financial literacy allows members of the Jamat to be more in control of their finances and on the path to economic empowerment.
Finding what economic empowerment means to you is a critical aspect to understanding where the balance of wealth fits into your life. When we can’t find that balance, our pendulum can swing towards the extremes of excessive wealth and greed which can lead us down a path of personal unhappiness. So, take a moment to reflect on your life. What does economic empowerment look like for you? Where does your pendulum stand?
---
Tashia is a financial security advisor with Freedom 55 Financial. She graduated from the University of Lethbridge with a social science degree and a finance degree. After graduating university, she immediately entered the wealth management industry. She is approaching her third anniversary in the industry.
https://the.ismaili/our-stories/finding ... -173435533
Having financial security plays an important role in securing your own quality of life and standard of living, but where do we draw the line between economic empowerment and the desire for excessive wealth?
Often, we think of balance as a scale: having equal weights on either side. In reality, balance may not be what it seems. Instead, it can be thought of as a pendulum. It’s about finding what’s right for you. There isn’t a one size fits all, especially when it comes to wealth.
Wealth is a tricky area in which to find balance. Modern society tends to glorify the ultra-wealthy and encourages us to strive towards living a glamorous lifestyle. Having financial security plays an important role in securing your own quality of life and standard of living, however, where do we draw the line between economic empowerment and the desire for excessive wealth?
It is human nature to constantly crave more. Corporations have made an industry out of tapping into the consumerist desires of our psyche. We tie our happiness to our net worth and the things we own, but how is it that someone with less wealth can be just as happy? When we start to fill voids in our life by surrounding ourselves with material things, it can create an imbalance in our lives and we often desire and crave more. This creates an unhealthy greed for excessive wealth.
So what does it mean to have economic empowerment? What does economic empowerment look like for different individuals? Having a safety blanket and ensuring our essential needs are taken care of is extremely important but what next? Once we have the security in place for ourselves and our families, why do we continue to chase wealth?
As a society, we tend to look at money as a finite resource. We sometimes think that there is only X amount out there and we need to get as much of it as we can before it runs out. Throughout societies around the world, we see an abundance of fraudulent investments. Part of this stems from the concept of a finite amount of wealth. What we fail to realize is that global financial systems are built upon an abundance of money, and so there’s always going to be both risks and opportunities. Once we can start shifting our mindset to understand this, we can start to move towards true economic empowerment and finding a balance in our lives.
I live the life of a typical first generation Canadian. My parents immigrated to Canada from Tanzania in the late 1980s. Like the majority of immigrant families, my parents moved here because it represents a land of opportunity. Nothing is impossible. For my parents, economic empowerment was having a secure income and the ability to build the life they had dreamed of halfway across the world. The sacrifices they made allow me the luxury of having the choices I do today. I can choose to do what I am passionate about and if it doesn’t work out, that’s okay, there’s always going to be some other opportunity for me to fall back on. Wealth is not a means to an end. Following my passions, not limiting my dreams, and not having wealth control my decisions is truly empowering.
Part of getting our mindset to shift to think this way is understanding wealth and being financially literate in our own lives. Spreading the knowledge of financial literacy allows members of the Jamat to be more in control of their finances and on the path to economic empowerment.
Finding what economic empowerment means to you is a critical aspect to understanding where the balance of wealth fits into your life. When we can’t find that balance, our pendulum can swing towards the extremes of excessive wealth and greed which can lead us down a path of personal unhappiness. So, take a moment to reflect on your life. What does economic empowerment look like for you? Where does your pendulum stand?
---
Tashia is a financial security advisor with Freedom 55 Financial. She graduated from the University of Lethbridge with a social science degree and a finance degree. After graduating university, she immediately entered the wealth management industry. She is approaching her third anniversary in the industry.
https://the.ismaili/our-stories/finding ... -173435533
Holistic economic planning in Afghanistan
AKEPB in Afghanistan have organised programmes focusing on the empowerment of women; promoting handicrafts and other products, and providing encouragement to launch small businesses.
Improving quality of life requires a multifaceted-approach, of which economic empowerment represents an important piece. If an individual or community is empowered economically this can result in having access to better education, health, safety, an enabling environment, and desired working and living conditions.
One of the keys to fostering economic empowerment is “better employment” that generates an adequate income not only to meet day-to-day living requirements, but to save for the future such as building assets and so on, which in turn contributes to better living conditions and better societies.
Ali Rawnaq, Chairman of the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) for Afghanistan states that “Unemployment rate in Afghanistan is 32% and poverty is reported at 54%.” Since the youth make up more than half of the population, one of our key objectives is to increase employment of youth. Better employment for the younger generation would not only empower them economically but also build their confidence in shaping the future.
Employment facilitation is one of the keys to economic empowerment, though not the sole one and therefore, AKEPB is commissioned to think of a holistic approach for economic empowerment for the Jamat by raising awareness, exploring business opportunities, encouraging the young towards entrepreneurship, and financial awareness and planning for families — particularly women — to take charge of family finances and economic planning.
Chairman Ali added “As a potential opportunity there are certain programmes which are mainly focusing on the empowerment of women; promoting their handicrafts and other products in the market, and encouragement to launch small businesses and create opportunity in the big national and international events in close partnership with key stakeholders and Portfolios.”
He also stated that the Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB) for Afghanistan plays a significant role in economic empowerment to increase access to quality education for the Jamat to improve employability, increase awareness, and positive thinking perspectives. They have been organising a variety of programmes for Jamat to enhance their education and knowledge. For instance, organising short training courses on how to apply for international scholarships, IELTS and TOEFL preparation courses also make a huge impact. He further added that “AKEPB and AKEB works closely with the University of Central Asia (UCA) to create opportunities and enable Jamati youth by improving their skills and qualifications in order to recommend high school graduates to UCA to pursue their bachelors at a high quality level, and as far as we increase trends on having the best educational backgrounds, there will be high opportunities of employment in the market.”
Positive economic empowerment can also lead to equality and balance of wealth between people in society. However, economic empowerment can also increase the desire for excessive wealth. Rather, entrepreneurs should be encouraged to increase the rate of employment and job opportunities for others. Chairman Ali of AKEBP added “Our main goal is to work closely with others Boards and Portfolios to create better opportunities and we first focus on job creation to increase employment rates according to the market need. Furthermore, we will strive to increase our high educational background profile for business development and to improve self-sustainability.”
https://the.ismaili/our-stories/holisti ... fghanistan
AKEPB in Afghanistan have organised programmes focusing on the empowerment of women; promoting handicrafts and other products, and providing encouragement to launch small businesses.
Improving quality of life requires a multifaceted-approach, of which economic empowerment represents an important piece. If an individual or community is empowered economically this can result in having access to better education, health, safety, an enabling environment, and desired working and living conditions.
One of the keys to fostering economic empowerment is “better employment” that generates an adequate income not only to meet day-to-day living requirements, but to save for the future such as building assets and so on, which in turn contributes to better living conditions and better societies.
Ali Rawnaq, Chairman of the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) for Afghanistan states that “Unemployment rate in Afghanistan is 32% and poverty is reported at 54%.” Since the youth make up more than half of the population, one of our key objectives is to increase employment of youth. Better employment for the younger generation would not only empower them economically but also build their confidence in shaping the future.
Employment facilitation is one of the keys to economic empowerment, though not the sole one and therefore, AKEPB is commissioned to think of a holistic approach for economic empowerment for the Jamat by raising awareness, exploring business opportunities, encouraging the young towards entrepreneurship, and financial awareness and planning for families — particularly women — to take charge of family finances and economic planning.
Chairman Ali added “As a potential opportunity there are certain programmes which are mainly focusing on the empowerment of women; promoting their handicrafts and other products in the market, and encouragement to launch small businesses and create opportunity in the big national and international events in close partnership with key stakeholders and Portfolios.”
He also stated that the Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB) for Afghanistan plays a significant role in economic empowerment to increase access to quality education for the Jamat to improve employability, increase awareness, and positive thinking perspectives. They have been organising a variety of programmes for Jamat to enhance their education and knowledge. For instance, organising short training courses on how to apply for international scholarships, IELTS and TOEFL preparation courses also make a huge impact. He further added that “AKEPB and AKEB works closely with the University of Central Asia (UCA) to create opportunities and enable Jamati youth by improving their skills and qualifications in order to recommend high school graduates to UCA to pursue their bachelors at a high quality level, and as far as we increase trends on having the best educational backgrounds, there will be high opportunities of employment in the market.”
Positive economic empowerment can also lead to equality and balance of wealth between people in society. However, economic empowerment can also increase the desire for excessive wealth. Rather, entrepreneurs should be encouraged to increase the rate of employment and job opportunities for others. Chairman Ali of AKEBP added “Our main goal is to work closely with others Boards and Portfolios to create better opportunities and we first focus on job creation to increase employment rates according to the market need. Furthermore, we will strive to increase our high educational background profile for business development and to improve self-sustainability.”
https://the.ismaili/our-stories/holisti ... fghanistan
Achieving Financial Independence: Creating goals on your road towards Financial Freedom
The world is changing and we are living longer and working longer. The notion of retirement has been ‘retired’ as we deal with new disruptive forces that are changing the future of work. How do we plan for a financially secure lifetime? Rishad Manekia shares simple strategies and rules that can help you build your road towards financial independence.
What does money mean to you? Why is it that we are taught to set aside and save money from our income? Are we building wealth for wealth’s sake?
Wood is a material that can be cut into pieces and, with the right ingredients and planning, it can be used to build a home for a family. The same piece of wood could also be burned in a bonfire for a party. It all depends on whose hands it’s in.
In the same way money is a tool that we can use to build for the future or spend away. If we buy things today that we don’t need, one day we may have to sell the things we do need in order to stay afloat. There is a purpose for the money that we earn, whether we realize it or not. It is therefore very important to manage our money prudently and link it to our life goals.
Achieving Financial Independence:
What would you do if you could do anything? If you woke up tomorrow and realized that all your bills and dues were paid forever, how would you spend your days? Would you volunteer full time? Spend more time with your friends and family? Would you more actively pursue your hobby of photography? Whatever is the answer, financial independence will enable you to be the master of your own time. Being financially independent is an important life goal. It means having dignity and security – it means not having to depend on anyone else to look after us financially – it means not having to work for a paycheck anymore.
How do we achieve this independence? There is no secret, but I will point you to the field of Economics to understand the keys to unlocking this path. If we think about our personal economy, we have many needs but limited resources to meet them.
Economics Made Simple:
What are the resources a family has at its disposal? These can neatly be divided into three buckets: land, labor and capital. Land is the property we own. Labor is the income from the work we do, or our “mehenat ki kamayi”. Capital is any other investment we have: these can be financial investments or even the investments we make in continuing education to upgrade our knowledge and skills.
What are the needs that we have? They fall into three categories: past, present, and future. The past are expenses you are paying, for something you have purchased earlier. For example, an EMI on a phone or car you bought a few months back. Your present needs are your normal everyday expenses, the “ghar kharcha”. The future needs are money that you will require after some time. This could be a house you are planning to buy, the future cost of your children’s education, any medical procedures you may be saving for and so on.
Let’s take an example of a young professional who is just starting out her career. Today her needs: past present and future are being met from the “labour” of her salary. If she has planned well, she will be investing her income to build up her “land” and “capital” for the future. She may be investing in SIPs or in deposits to ultimately buy a house. Or she may be setting money aside to take a professional course that can help boost her career.
At some point, her investments will start to pay her back with income. Her property may start earning rent, her investments may start to pay dividend, her fixed deposits may pay her interest. If she continues to reinvest in herself, at some point the passive income she gets from “land” and capital” will be sufficient to fund all of her needs. This is the point at which she reaches financial freedom. Now she has the choice not to work anymore and the income from her assets can pay for her expenses.
Directing your “future” funds into land or capital slowly over time can help to build up income sources to eventually replace your income from labor. This is crucial and without it, financial independence is simply not possible. You may need to take a hard look at how much of your income is going toward past or present needs. Create a monthly budget that helps you to map your expenses. This will give you a breakup of your spending and will help you identify where you can cut down so that you can save more. Prudent advance planning will also help you to plan for future purchases.
This framework helps us put investments into perspective. The point of investing is to store up land and capital that will provide you with sustainable income. Focusing on that can help you weigh your choices. Where are your income streams coming from today? If you stopped working, how much income would your current land and capital investments produce for you every month? What are some ways you might be able to make more out of the resources you currently have?
Investing to Achieve Goals: Learning from the Game of Cricket:
You now have a goal of financial independence; you can break it down to a target value and a time horizon. How will you invest to achieve this goal? I will use an analogy from cricket! For a team that is batting in the second innings, there is also a target number of runs and a number of overs within which to meet them.
When planning the batting line-up, it is very important for the captain to first consider the defense. If your team gets all out in the first 10 overs then there is no chance that you will win the match. You need a Rahul Dravid like “Wall” to ensure that you are still in the game. Similarly, in investing, you need to first ensure that you protect against emergencies that may pull you down financially. Keep a fixed deposit equal to nine months’ expenses, adequate health insurance to pay for medical procedures, a term insurance to protect your loved ones from the loss of your income and pay off high interest debt. These will give you and your family peace of mind and put you in the driver’s seat of your own financial life.
Next up is the offense. You may choose to save your money in the bank and in fixed deposits. This is good and equal to the singles and doubles that batsmen take; necessary to play the match but may not be the match winners. The match winners are the fours and sixes; and in investing they would be your equity mutual funds. But you have to be careful with these: when going for a four or six, you could also very easily get bowled or caught out. Careful and prudent planning using a judicious mix of ones, twos, fours and sixes will give you the winning combination.
Retirement is generally thought of as an age beyond which we will not work. However, we also need to ensure that we have enough money to last our lifetime. Medical advancements mean that people live longer than ever before which makes the retirement age a moving goal post. It is never too late to start saving and creating a path toward financial independence.
Photos at:
https://the.ismaili/india/achieving-fin ... al-freedom
The world is changing and we are living longer and working longer. The notion of retirement has been ‘retired’ as we deal with new disruptive forces that are changing the future of work. How do we plan for a financially secure lifetime? Rishad Manekia shares simple strategies and rules that can help you build your road towards financial independence.
What does money mean to you? Why is it that we are taught to set aside and save money from our income? Are we building wealth for wealth’s sake?
Wood is a material that can be cut into pieces and, with the right ingredients and planning, it can be used to build a home for a family. The same piece of wood could also be burned in a bonfire for a party. It all depends on whose hands it’s in.
In the same way money is a tool that we can use to build for the future or spend away. If we buy things today that we don’t need, one day we may have to sell the things we do need in order to stay afloat. There is a purpose for the money that we earn, whether we realize it or not. It is therefore very important to manage our money prudently and link it to our life goals.
Achieving Financial Independence:
What would you do if you could do anything? If you woke up tomorrow and realized that all your bills and dues were paid forever, how would you spend your days? Would you volunteer full time? Spend more time with your friends and family? Would you more actively pursue your hobby of photography? Whatever is the answer, financial independence will enable you to be the master of your own time. Being financially independent is an important life goal. It means having dignity and security – it means not having to depend on anyone else to look after us financially – it means not having to work for a paycheck anymore.
How do we achieve this independence? There is no secret, but I will point you to the field of Economics to understand the keys to unlocking this path. If we think about our personal economy, we have many needs but limited resources to meet them.
Economics Made Simple:
What are the resources a family has at its disposal? These can neatly be divided into three buckets: land, labor and capital. Land is the property we own. Labor is the income from the work we do, or our “mehenat ki kamayi”. Capital is any other investment we have: these can be financial investments or even the investments we make in continuing education to upgrade our knowledge and skills.
What are the needs that we have? They fall into three categories: past, present, and future. The past are expenses you are paying, for something you have purchased earlier. For example, an EMI on a phone or car you bought a few months back. Your present needs are your normal everyday expenses, the “ghar kharcha”. The future needs are money that you will require after some time. This could be a house you are planning to buy, the future cost of your children’s education, any medical procedures you may be saving for and so on.
Let’s take an example of a young professional who is just starting out her career. Today her needs: past present and future are being met from the “labour” of her salary. If she has planned well, she will be investing her income to build up her “land” and “capital” for the future. She may be investing in SIPs or in deposits to ultimately buy a house. Or she may be setting money aside to take a professional course that can help boost her career.
At some point, her investments will start to pay her back with income. Her property may start earning rent, her investments may start to pay dividend, her fixed deposits may pay her interest. If she continues to reinvest in herself, at some point the passive income she gets from “land” and capital” will be sufficient to fund all of her needs. This is the point at which she reaches financial freedom. Now she has the choice not to work anymore and the income from her assets can pay for her expenses.
Directing your “future” funds into land or capital slowly over time can help to build up income sources to eventually replace your income from labor. This is crucial and without it, financial independence is simply not possible. You may need to take a hard look at how much of your income is going toward past or present needs. Create a monthly budget that helps you to map your expenses. This will give you a breakup of your spending and will help you identify where you can cut down so that you can save more. Prudent advance planning will also help you to plan for future purchases.
This framework helps us put investments into perspective. The point of investing is to store up land and capital that will provide you with sustainable income. Focusing on that can help you weigh your choices. Where are your income streams coming from today? If you stopped working, how much income would your current land and capital investments produce for you every month? What are some ways you might be able to make more out of the resources you currently have?
Investing to Achieve Goals: Learning from the Game of Cricket:
You now have a goal of financial independence; you can break it down to a target value and a time horizon. How will you invest to achieve this goal? I will use an analogy from cricket! For a team that is batting in the second innings, there is also a target number of runs and a number of overs within which to meet them.
When planning the batting line-up, it is very important for the captain to first consider the defense. If your team gets all out in the first 10 overs then there is no chance that you will win the match. You need a Rahul Dravid like “Wall” to ensure that you are still in the game. Similarly, in investing, you need to first ensure that you protect against emergencies that may pull you down financially. Keep a fixed deposit equal to nine months’ expenses, adequate health insurance to pay for medical procedures, a term insurance to protect your loved ones from the loss of your income and pay off high interest debt. These will give you and your family peace of mind and put you in the driver’s seat of your own financial life.
Next up is the offense. You may choose to save your money in the bank and in fixed deposits. This is good and equal to the singles and doubles that batsmen take; necessary to play the match but may not be the match winners. The match winners are the fours and sixes; and in investing they would be your equity mutual funds. But you have to be careful with these: when going for a four or six, you could also very easily get bowled or caught out. Careful and prudent planning using a judicious mix of ones, twos, fours and sixes will give you the winning combination.
Retirement is generally thought of as an age beyond which we will not work. However, we also need to ensure that we have enough money to last our lifetime. Medical advancements mean that people live longer than ever before which makes the retirement age a moving goal post. It is never too late to start saving and creating a path toward financial independence.
Photos at:
https://the.ismaili/india/achieving-fin ... al-freedom
Google translation of the article in Portuguese:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/governo-la ... 0-economia
Government launches two circulars with economic incentive measures
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) informs all entrepreneurs that the Government has launched two circulars with measures to encourage the economy, due to the difficulties that companies may be experiencing in terms of treasury and in the fulfillment of other obligations, due to the changes that COVID-19 is causing in all economic activities.
Articles linked at:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/governo-la ... 0-economia
https://the.ismaili/portugal/governo-la ... 0-economia
Government launches two circulars with economic incentive measures
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) informs all entrepreneurs that the Government has launched two circulars with measures to encourage the economy, due to the difficulties that companies may be experiencing in terms of treasury and in the fulfillment of other obligations, due to the changes that COVID-19 is causing in all economic activities.
Articles linked at:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/governo-la ... 0-economia
Google translation of the Portuguese article:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/linhas-de- ... C3%B3sitos
Funding lines of Caixa Geral de Depósitos
AKEPB and ADEE inform all entrepreneurs who are feeling the commercial and financial impact caused by the spread of COVID-19 in their businesses, that business support lines are already available.
Entrepreneurs should prepare the tax documentation, in order to be able to submit to the respective banks the request to use the referred line.
Please note that Caixa Geral de Depósitos is already materializing the use of this credit line.
COMMUNICATION FROM THE GENERAL DEPOSIT BOX
Within the scope of the impact that COVID-19 is having in economic terms, mainly in the Tourism sector, two Financing Lines were made available to Support Micro and Small Enterprises, in articulation with SGM:
Specific Working Fund line;
Line specifies Treasury ceiling.
Entrepreneurs wishing to proceed with this solution need to send the following elements of the company (ies):
Permanent certificate code;
Registration of beneficial owners;
Certificate of non-debt to Finance and TA;
Analytical trial balance to October 2019;
December 2019 balance sheet (even if forecast);
December 2019 Income Statement (even if forecast);
Analytical trial balance as of December 2019 (even if forecast);
IAPMEI certification (declaration of the company's size - registration on the IAPMEI website).
https://the.ismaili/portugal/linhas-de- ... C3%B3sitos
Funding lines of Caixa Geral de Depósitos
AKEPB and ADEE inform all entrepreneurs who are feeling the commercial and financial impact caused by the spread of COVID-19 in their businesses, that business support lines are already available.
Entrepreneurs should prepare the tax documentation, in order to be able to submit to the respective banks the request to use the referred line.
Please note that Caixa Geral de Depósitos is already materializing the use of this credit line.
COMMUNICATION FROM THE GENERAL DEPOSIT BOX
Within the scope of the impact that COVID-19 is having in economic terms, mainly in the Tourism sector, two Financing Lines were made available to Support Micro and Small Enterprises, in articulation with SGM:
Specific Working Fund line;
Line specifies Treasury ceiling.
Entrepreneurs wishing to proceed with this solution need to send the following elements of the company (ies):
Permanent certificate code;
Registration of beneficial owners;
Certificate of non-debt to Finance and TA;
Analytical trial balance to October 2019;
December 2019 balance sheet (even if forecast);
December 2019 Income Statement (even if forecast);
Analytical trial balance as of December 2019 (even if forecast);
IAPMEI certification (declaration of the company's size - registration on the IAPMEI website).
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for the United Kingdom Fraud Awareness
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for the United Kingdom
Fraud Awareness (Last Updated: 10 March 2020)
https://the.ismaili/uk/aga-khan-economi ... -awareness
*****
Summary of Government and Bank of England Support
The UK Budget considers the temporary economic impact from the spread of COVID-19 in the UK but also longer-term investments which will underpin growth over the coming decade. Below is a summary of the budget and support announced and available by the Government and BoE for business disruption due to COVID-19
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for the United Kingdom
Summary of Government and BoE Support
https://the.ismaili/uk/summary-governme ... nd-support
(Last Updated: 20 March 2020)
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for the United Kingdom
Fraud Awareness (Last Updated: 10 March 2020)
https://the.ismaili/uk/aga-khan-economi ... -awareness
*****
Summary of Government and Bank of England Support
The UK Budget considers the temporary economic impact from the spread of COVID-19 in the UK but also longer-term investments which will underpin growth over the coming decade. Below is a summary of the budget and support announced and available by the Government and BoE for business disruption due to COVID-19
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for the United Kingdom
Summary of Government and BoE Support
https://the.ismaili/uk/summary-governme ... nd-support
(Last Updated: 20 March 2020)
Message from Chairman of the AKEPB
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Ya Ali Madad. During this time of COVID-19, we know that this a very difficult time for you and your family in Germany and Austria. Please rest assured the Institutions are here to support you and will do our utmost to help you in this difficult time.
The AKEPB has prepared a checklist of items that you need to ensure are in place or you have considered. Although it is difficult to think of these things at this time, it is important to you and your family that you consider the list below. We have separated the list into three key areas: personal finance, employment and business. Should this not cover all your questions, please do reach out to the AKEPB for more support on 0 69 222 214 075 in Germany or 0720 02 2905 in Austria or email [email protected]. We are here to help.
Personal Finance Areas to Consider:
• Have you paid all your insurance and critical illness covers? Ensure these are up to date. Contact your insurance companies to get the up to date policies, deductible amounts and cover.
• Whilst you are at home, do you have enough cash flow to cover your basic necessities? Have you prepared a budget looking at your wants and needs that covers your short and medium term needs? Ensure you keep a reserve fund that covers all your necessities. You can find online tools to help your prepare budgets, see a budget planner here.
• If you are unable to meet your mortgage or rental obligations, please reach out to your bank or landlord explain your situation to see if you can amend your payment plans so that it is more manageable.
• Ensure that for any amendments you make to payment plans with any providers, you understand the new terms and conditions.
• Review all your monthly subscriptions including transport, gym memberships and enquire about refunds. Most companies are offering some refund or credit options.
• Do not make any new financial commitments until the economic impact of COVID-19 is clear.
• Be alert to potential scams regarding coronavirus: do not click on links or attachments from people you do not know, avoid giving out personal details over the phone and veri-fy information before you make decisions.
• Ensure your will and Power of Attorney (POA) documents are up to date.
• Please share the location of all your important documents including investments (at home and abroad) with a trusted member of your friends or family.
Employment Areas to Consider:
• There is a high possibility that employers may ask employees to work short-time. This will have an impact on the monthly remuneration that you may receive. The short-time work allowance for employees is 60% of the flat-rate salary and 67% for working parents. Details available here.
• If there is no worker’s council, a declaration of understanding is needed to be signed between the employer and employee for short-time work agreements.
• As an employee if you hold a sideline job before short-time work was introduced then you can continue. The income from this will not be counted in your short-time work allowance.
• If short-time work allowance is not enough to cover your monthly needs, basic security benefits (Arbeitslosengeld II) can be applied for.
• If you are ordered to quarantine or develop COVID-19 and are therefore incapable of work, you will continue to receive your wages in the event of illness for up to 6 weeks. Please keep your employer informed if a situation like this arises.
• We encourage you to keep an open line of communication with your employer during this time so that if you do need to discuss any amendments to your employment as a result of you or your family it may be easier.
• If you are unsure of any of the reliefs or benefits available, we encourage you to contact the Federal Employment Agency hotline at 0800 45555 20
Business Areas to Consider:
• The German Govt has agreed to emergency aid for up to €50bn in emergency aid for small businesses.
• One of the initiatives including in the new aid is grants for small businesses including self-employed individuals. The German government will provide €9,000 for up to 3 months for businesses up to 5 employees and €15,000 for up to 3 months for businesses with up to 10 employees. Details are available here.
• Most states including NRW, Berlin, Bayern, Hessen have launched state-wide assistance related to COVID-19. In addition to the grants for operating businesses already in operation, start-ups, freelancers will also be supported.
• In Austria, the government has launched a hardship fund for €1bn for entrepreneurs in small funds, self-employed individuals and liberal professionals. Details are available here.
• Austria has bridging opportunities for working capital loans for EPU/SME’s and tourism companies that are continually being expanded. You can see details and the application here
• Austrian companies can apply for tax deferrals or payment in instalments if there has been an impact on cash-flow due to the virus. The same applies to Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 allocation. You can also request that deferred interest be zero.
• The Austrian government has been working with energy providers to cushion hardship cases. Please see here for more information.
Updates to the policies available are coming in regularly, we encourage the Jamat to keep up to date by following their respective government websites. If you are in need of more support, please reach out to AKEPB on 0 69 222 214 075 in Germany or 0720 02 2905 in Austria or email [email protected].
Sincerely,
Salim Janmohamed
Chairman of the AKEPB
https://the.ismaili/uk/message-chairman-the-akepb-0
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Ya Ali Madad. During this time of COVID-19, we know that this a very difficult time for you and your family in Germany and Austria. Please rest assured the Institutions are here to support you and will do our utmost to help you in this difficult time.
The AKEPB has prepared a checklist of items that you need to ensure are in place or you have considered. Although it is difficult to think of these things at this time, it is important to you and your family that you consider the list below. We have separated the list into three key areas: personal finance, employment and business. Should this not cover all your questions, please do reach out to the AKEPB for more support on 0 69 222 214 075 in Germany or 0720 02 2905 in Austria or email [email protected]. We are here to help.
Personal Finance Areas to Consider:
• Have you paid all your insurance and critical illness covers? Ensure these are up to date. Contact your insurance companies to get the up to date policies, deductible amounts and cover.
• Whilst you are at home, do you have enough cash flow to cover your basic necessities? Have you prepared a budget looking at your wants and needs that covers your short and medium term needs? Ensure you keep a reserve fund that covers all your necessities. You can find online tools to help your prepare budgets, see a budget planner here.
• If you are unable to meet your mortgage or rental obligations, please reach out to your bank or landlord explain your situation to see if you can amend your payment plans so that it is more manageable.
• Ensure that for any amendments you make to payment plans with any providers, you understand the new terms and conditions.
• Review all your monthly subscriptions including transport, gym memberships and enquire about refunds. Most companies are offering some refund or credit options.
• Do not make any new financial commitments until the economic impact of COVID-19 is clear.
• Be alert to potential scams regarding coronavirus: do not click on links or attachments from people you do not know, avoid giving out personal details over the phone and veri-fy information before you make decisions.
• Ensure your will and Power of Attorney (POA) documents are up to date.
• Please share the location of all your important documents including investments (at home and abroad) with a trusted member of your friends or family.
Employment Areas to Consider:
• There is a high possibility that employers may ask employees to work short-time. This will have an impact on the monthly remuneration that you may receive. The short-time work allowance for employees is 60% of the flat-rate salary and 67% for working parents. Details available here.
• If there is no worker’s council, a declaration of understanding is needed to be signed between the employer and employee for short-time work agreements.
• As an employee if you hold a sideline job before short-time work was introduced then you can continue. The income from this will not be counted in your short-time work allowance.
• If short-time work allowance is not enough to cover your monthly needs, basic security benefits (Arbeitslosengeld II) can be applied for.
• If you are ordered to quarantine or develop COVID-19 and are therefore incapable of work, you will continue to receive your wages in the event of illness for up to 6 weeks. Please keep your employer informed if a situation like this arises.
• We encourage you to keep an open line of communication with your employer during this time so that if you do need to discuss any amendments to your employment as a result of you or your family it may be easier.
• If you are unsure of any of the reliefs or benefits available, we encourage you to contact the Federal Employment Agency hotline at 0800 45555 20
Business Areas to Consider:
• The German Govt has agreed to emergency aid for up to €50bn in emergency aid for small businesses.
• One of the initiatives including in the new aid is grants for small businesses including self-employed individuals. The German government will provide €9,000 for up to 3 months for businesses up to 5 employees and €15,000 for up to 3 months for businesses with up to 10 employees. Details are available here.
• Most states including NRW, Berlin, Bayern, Hessen have launched state-wide assistance related to COVID-19. In addition to the grants for operating businesses already in operation, start-ups, freelancers will also be supported.
• In Austria, the government has launched a hardship fund for €1bn for entrepreneurs in small funds, self-employed individuals and liberal professionals. Details are available here.
• Austria has bridging opportunities for working capital loans for EPU/SME’s and tourism companies that are continually being expanded. You can see details and the application here
• Austrian companies can apply for tax deferrals or payment in instalments if there has been an impact on cash-flow due to the virus. The same applies to Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 allocation. You can also request that deferred interest be zero.
• The Austrian government has been working with energy providers to cushion hardship cases. Please see here for more information.
Updates to the policies available are coming in regularly, we encourage the Jamat to keep up to date by following their respective government websites. If you are in need of more support, please reach out to AKEPB on 0 69 222 214 075 in Germany or 0720 02 2905 in Austria or email [email protected].
Sincerely,
Salim Janmohamed
Chairman of the AKEPB
https://the.ismaili/uk/message-chairman-the-akepb-0
Aga Khan Economic Planning Board Economic Update
23 March 2020
As you are aware, the coronavirus outbreak has now affected almost every country around the world. From an economic standpoint, the impact of coronavirus has resulted in a period of significant uncertainty and volatility. It is highly likely that economic growth will slow down in the coming months. Given the prevailing environment, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) for UAE would like to apprise the Jamat of the following:
Households
- Avoid all unnecessary expenses at this time and monitor what you spend against what you earn; plan your expenses in a way that you increase your savings every month.
- Avoid making new commitments until the economic outlook is clearer.
- Speak to your landlord and seek rent waivers (1 to 3 months); where renewals are due, negotiate on contracts.
- Ensure important documents such as wills, powers of attorney, insurance and medical papers are up to date and accessible.
- Having health insurance could be critical in the weeks ahead. We advise you to ensure you have adequate coverage for yourselves and your dependents.
- Maintain savings as a financial cushion against unexpected job or business loss. Now is a good time for families to create budgets if they do not have one, or review existing budgets to plan for the coming months.
- The UAE government announced on 21 March 2020 some economic measures through the local commercial banks for customers. For details, please refer to the following link: Dubai banks announce business relief package for customers as part of support for UAE economy
- Read newspapers regularly to be aware of the continuously changing local, regional and global environment.
- School breaks could be extended further if the pandemic worsens. Working parents should explore options that would allow you to continue working from home.
- Be cautious before making any short-term and speculative investments.
Businesses
- As the pandemic spreads globally, consumer sentiment may weaken further. Those involved in sectors such as travel, hospitality, retail and F&B should prepare for reduced demand for their services for the foreseeable future.
- Business owners should focus on cashflow as a priority and be financially prudent.
- Speak to your landlord and seeks some rent waivers (1 to 3 months).
- Call all suppliers and see if they will accept more flexible payment terms.
- Speak to your bank to discuss your circumstances and see if they will be more accommodating on loans given the current economic situation and regional stimuli in place. On 21 March 2020, the UAE government announced some economic measures through the local commercial banks for businesses. For details please refer to the following link: Dubai banks announce business relief package for customers as part of support for UAE economy
- Lower interest rates could constitute favourable news for those carrying debt on lines of credit, mortgages and floating rate loans. It will help ease the interest burden. Please speak to your bank to ensure that you are taking advantage of this.
-Products from abroad may experience supply shortages and higher prices. - - If you are involved in trade, please consider disruptions in supplies and if possible, explore diversifying suppliers.
AKEPB is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to keep the Jamat informed of any further developments.
https://the.ismaili/uae/economic-updates
23 March 2020
As you are aware, the coronavirus outbreak has now affected almost every country around the world. From an economic standpoint, the impact of coronavirus has resulted in a period of significant uncertainty and volatility. It is highly likely that economic growth will slow down in the coming months. Given the prevailing environment, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) for UAE would like to apprise the Jamat of the following:
Households
- Avoid all unnecessary expenses at this time and monitor what you spend against what you earn; plan your expenses in a way that you increase your savings every month.
- Avoid making new commitments until the economic outlook is clearer.
- Speak to your landlord and seek rent waivers (1 to 3 months); where renewals are due, negotiate on contracts.
- Ensure important documents such as wills, powers of attorney, insurance and medical papers are up to date and accessible.
- Having health insurance could be critical in the weeks ahead. We advise you to ensure you have adequate coverage for yourselves and your dependents.
- Maintain savings as a financial cushion against unexpected job or business loss. Now is a good time for families to create budgets if they do not have one, or review existing budgets to plan for the coming months.
- The UAE government announced on 21 March 2020 some economic measures through the local commercial banks for customers. For details, please refer to the following link: Dubai banks announce business relief package for customers as part of support for UAE economy
- Read newspapers regularly to be aware of the continuously changing local, regional and global environment.
- School breaks could be extended further if the pandemic worsens. Working parents should explore options that would allow you to continue working from home.
- Be cautious before making any short-term and speculative investments.
Businesses
- As the pandemic spreads globally, consumer sentiment may weaken further. Those involved in sectors such as travel, hospitality, retail and F&B should prepare for reduced demand for their services for the foreseeable future.
- Business owners should focus on cashflow as a priority and be financially prudent.
- Speak to your landlord and seeks some rent waivers (1 to 3 months).
- Call all suppliers and see if they will accept more flexible payment terms.
- Speak to your bank to discuss your circumstances and see if they will be more accommodating on loans given the current economic situation and regional stimuli in place. On 21 March 2020, the UAE government announced some economic measures through the local commercial banks for businesses. For details please refer to the following link: Dubai banks announce business relief package for customers as part of support for UAE economy
- Lower interest rates could constitute favourable news for those carrying debt on lines of credit, mortgages and floating rate loans. It will help ease the interest burden. Please speak to your bank to ensure that you are taking advantage of this.
-Products from abroad may experience supply shortages and higher prices. - - If you are involved in trade, please consider disruptions in supplies and if possible, explore diversifying suppliers.
AKEPB is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to keep the Jamat informed of any further developments.
https://the.ismaili/uae/economic-updates
Google translation of the article in Portuguese:
https://the.ismaili/portugal/mensagem-i ... n-do-akepb
AKEPB's Chaiman Institutional Message
English and Spanish versions available after the Portuguese one.
flag-round-of-portugal-134377883.jpg
Ya Ali Madad.
About a month ago we suffered a profound change in our lives. Overnight companies have decentralized, our homes have become schools, companies or institutions. What at the beginning of the year we thought was impossible or a distant future, in days has become reality. And it is with this new reality in mind that I address all the families, professionals and entrepreneurs of Jamat. And I will try to divide this message into three distinct topics:
The first is the need to make a thorough analysis of the personal, family and business economic situation. It is essential to have a realistic plan for the coming months. To do this, it is necessary to know in detail the existing liquidity as well as all fixed family or business costs. It is very important to look critically at these fixed costs, cut what is not essential and negotiate what is possible. This is a crisis without culprits, it is not the result of the financial sector or sovereign debt. They are all on the same side and everyone is open to finding solutions that minimize the impact. Banks are accepting personal or business credit default. Landlords are open to negotiating rent deferrals, suppliers accepting longer payment terms. It is important to talk to all the actors around us, to cooperate but also to be cooperative, it is essential at this stage to conserve existing liquidity and create good savings habits. It is equally important to know all the tools that the government has made available to us. Many diplomas have been passed in recent weeks. These diplomas include the postponement of taxes and their payment in installments. Simplified lay off with support from social security or even treasury support lines and working capital, which are already available through banks, are simple lines of easy access, which, if well applied, solve short term problems of treasury. There is a huge concern from governments and central banks to act quickly in order to stimulate and recover the economic part of companies and also families. It is essential that everyone has good legal and tax advice as well as good financial and management advice. EPB has held several webinars and established several protocols not only to bring relevant information to our professionals and entrepreneurs, but also to make available to them, specialists who can help in this delicate moment.
The second point I would like to focus on in this message is the need to think in the medium and long term, the need to reinvent our business, to change the model, to transform ourselves digitally, to adapt our offer to the new reality. It is undeniable that the world has undergone major changes in the past decade. New slogans like telecommuting or collaborative tools have been around for years. The situation we are now facing has only spread this reality to all sectors. At this point of transformation, younger generations will have a fundamental role. With them and through dialogue, it will be possible to modernize companies. It is very important that this intergenerational dialogue exists, both within families and within companies. Mawlana Hazar Imam in her March 28 message ends by saying: “We must remain strong and prepare to build and to build well when this crisis is over. In other words, it is important for everyone to think about the post crisis, about the new consumption habits, which were created as a result of this pandemic. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. “We must remain strong and prepare to build and to build well when this crisis is over. In other words, it is important for everyone to think about the post crisis, about the new consumption habits, which were created as a result of this pandemic. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. “We must remain strong and prepare to build and to build well when this crisis is over. In other words, it is important for everyone to think about the post crisis, about the new consumption habits, which were created as a result of this pandemic. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time.
The third and final point I wanted to mention in this message is the need to learn and learn the lessons from this crisis. And here I think it will be important to go back to July 2019 and remember the speech of the President of the President of the National Council on the occasion of the Imamat Day celebrations. In that speech, the President shared some economic guidence with Jamat that in the current situation we do more sense than ever. Remember. Investments should be well analyzed, well considered in terms of their risk, as far as possible, investments should be diversified, both sectorally and geographically. All capital should not be invested. We must take into account the free movement and availability of capital. We must instill good management practices in our companies, as well as being advised by good professionals at a tax and legal level. It is extremely important to save and preserve part of the wealth for future generations and, finally, to work together. It is important that all entrepreneurs and professionals understand the importance of belonging to sectoral groups or clusters, where information and knowledge are shared. At this point, ADEE is organizing these sector groups so that they function in a well-defined manner. I come to the end of this message of mine with one last request: it is very important for the EPB team and for ADEE, to understand the whole reality of Jamat's business fabric. Therefore, I ask all businessmen and professionals in Jamat to answer a questionnaire that the National Council will send shortly. There are half a dozen questions that will take a little more than five minutes to answer but that will bring a very valuable work base for the institutions. Thank you very much for your availability. Stay safe.
Ya Ali Madad.
round-flag-of-united-kingdom-131008574.jpg
Ya Ali Madad.
About a month ago we suffered a huge change in our lives.
Overnight, companies have decentralized, our homes have become schools, companies or institutions. What at the beginning of the year we thought was impossible or a distant future in days became true. And it is with this new reality in mind, that I address all the families, professionals and entrepreneurs in the Jamat. And I will try to divide this message into three distinct topics:
The first is the need to make an in-depth analysis of the personal, familiar and business economic situation. It is essential to have a realistic plan for the coming months. For that, it is necessary to know in detail the existing liquidity as well as all fixed family or business costs. It is very important to look critically at these fixed costs, to cut what is not essential and to negotiate what is possible. This is a crisis without culprits, it is not the result of the financial sector or sovereign debt. They are all on the same side and everyone is open to finding solutions that minimize the impact. Banks are accepting personal or business credit default. Landlords are open to negotiating postponement of rents and suppliers are accepting longer payment terms. It is important to talk to everyone around us to cooperate, but also to be cooperative, it is essential at this stage to conserve existing liquidity and create good savings habits. It is equally important to know all the tools that the government has made available to us. Many diplomas have been approved in recent weeks. These diplomas involve the postponement of taxes and their payment in fraccions. The simplified lay off, with support from social security or even treasury support lines and working capital, that are already available through banks are, simple lines of easy access that, if well applied, solve short-term treasury problems. There is a huge concern from the governments and central bank to act quickly in order to stimulate and recover the economic part of companies and also families. It is essential that everyone has good legal and tax advice as well as good financial and management advice.
The second point I would like to focus on this message, is the need to think in the medium and long term and the need to reinvent our business, to change the model, to transform ourselves digitally, to adapt our offer to the new reality. It is undeniable that the world has undergone major changes in the past decade. The new slogans like teleworking or collaborative tools, have been around for years. The situation we are now facing has only spread this reality to all sectors. At this point of transformation, younger generations will have a fundamental role. With them and through dialogue, it will be possible to modernize companies. It is very important that this intergenerational dialogue exists, both within families and companies. Mawlana Hazar Imam in his message on March 28th ends by saying: it is important for everyone to think about the new consumption habits that have resulted from this pandemic in the post-crisis period, and analyze how companies can build well in this new reality. And this is true for micro, small, medium or large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity, and that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs. Over the past 25 or 30 years, our families and companies have faced other crises and, luckily, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises brought us and this should be the focus on this moment. it is important for everyone to think about the new consumption habits that have resulted from this pandemic in the post-crisis period, and analyze how companies can build well in this new reality. And this is true for micro, small, medium or large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity, and that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs. Over the past 25 or 30 years, our families and companies have faced other crises and, luckily, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises brought us and this should be the focus on this moment.
The third and final point that I wanted to mention in this message is the need to learn and take lessons from this crisis. And here I think it will be important to go back until July 2019 and remember the speech of the President of the National Council on the occasion of the Imamat Day celebration. In that speech, the president shared with the Jamat some economic guidance that in the current situation makes more sense than ever. Remember, investments must be well analyzed and weighed in terms of risk, as far as possible investments must be diversified, both sectorally and geographically. We should not invest all the capital. We must take into account the free movement and availability of capital. We must instill good management practices in our companies as well as seek to be advised by experts at tax and legal matters. It is extremely important to save and preserve part of the wealth for future generations and finally, work together. It is important that all entrepreneurs and professionals realize the importance of belonging to groups or sectoral clusters where there is sharing of information and knowledge. At this point, ADEE is organizing these sector groups so that they work in a well-defined manner. I come to the end of this message with one last request: it is very important for the EPB and ADEE teams to understand the whole reality of Jamat's business. Therefore, I ask all Jamat businessmen and professionals to answer a survey that the National Council will send shortly. There are around half a dozen questions that will take a little more than five minutes to answer, but that will bring a very valuable work base for the institutions. Thank you very much for your availability. Keep safe.
Ya Ali Madad.
https://the.ismaili/portugal/mensagem-i ... n-do-akepb
AKEPB's Chaiman Institutional Message
English and Spanish versions available after the Portuguese one.
flag-round-of-portugal-134377883.jpg
Ya Ali Madad.
About a month ago we suffered a profound change in our lives. Overnight companies have decentralized, our homes have become schools, companies or institutions. What at the beginning of the year we thought was impossible or a distant future, in days has become reality. And it is with this new reality in mind that I address all the families, professionals and entrepreneurs of Jamat. And I will try to divide this message into three distinct topics:
The first is the need to make a thorough analysis of the personal, family and business economic situation. It is essential to have a realistic plan for the coming months. To do this, it is necessary to know in detail the existing liquidity as well as all fixed family or business costs. It is very important to look critically at these fixed costs, cut what is not essential and negotiate what is possible. This is a crisis without culprits, it is not the result of the financial sector or sovereign debt. They are all on the same side and everyone is open to finding solutions that minimize the impact. Banks are accepting personal or business credit default. Landlords are open to negotiating rent deferrals, suppliers accepting longer payment terms. It is important to talk to all the actors around us, to cooperate but also to be cooperative, it is essential at this stage to conserve existing liquidity and create good savings habits. It is equally important to know all the tools that the government has made available to us. Many diplomas have been passed in recent weeks. These diplomas include the postponement of taxes and their payment in installments. Simplified lay off with support from social security or even treasury support lines and working capital, which are already available through banks, are simple lines of easy access, which, if well applied, solve short term problems of treasury. There is a huge concern from governments and central banks to act quickly in order to stimulate and recover the economic part of companies and also families. It is essential that everyone has good legal and tax advice as well as good financial and management advice. EPB has held several webinars and established several protocols not only to bring relevant information to our professionals and entrepreneurs, but also to make available to them, specialists who can help in this delicate moment.
The second point I would like to focus on in this message is the need to think in the medium and long term, the need to reinvent our business, to change the model, to transform ourselves digitally, to adapt our offer to the new reality. It is undeniable that the world has undergone major changes in the past decade. New slogans like telecommuting or collaborative tools have been around for years. The situation we are now facing has only spread this reality to all sectors. At this point of transformation, younger generations will have a fundamental role. With them and through dialogue, it will be possible to modernize companies. It is very important that this intergenerational dialogue exists, both within families and within companies. Mawlana Hazar Imam in her March 28 message ends by saying: “We must remain strong and prepare to build and to build well when this crisis is over. In other words, it is important for everyone to think about the post crisis, about the new consumption habits, which were created as a result of this pandemic. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. “We must remain strong and prepare to build and to build well when this crisis is over. In other words, it is important for everyone to think about the post crisis, about the new consumption habits, which were created as a result of this pandemic. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. “We must remain strong and prepare to build and to build well when this crisis is over. In other words, it is important for everyone to think about the post crisis, about the new consumption habits, which were created as a result of this pandemic. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time. AND ANALYZE HOW they can build companies well for this new reality. This is true for micro, small, medium and large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity. And that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs, over the past 25 or 30 years our families and companies have faced other crises and, fortunately, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises have brought us and this should be the focus at this time.
The third and final point I wanted to mention in this message is the need to learn and learn the lessons from this crisis. And here I think it will be important to go back to July 2019 and remember the speech of the President of the President of the National Council on the occasion of the Imamat Day celebrations. In that speech, the President shared some economic guidence with Jamat that in the current situation we do more sense than ever. Remember. Investments should be well analyzed, well considered in terms of their risk, as far as possible, investments should be diversified, both sectorally and geographically. All capital should not be invested. We must take into account the free movement and availability of capital. We must instill good management practices in our companies, as well as being advised by good professionals at a tax and legal level. It is extremely important to save and preserve part of the wealth for future generations and, finally, to work together. It is important that all entrepreneurs and professionals understand the importance of belonging to sectoral groups or clusters, where information and knowledge are shared. At this point, ADEE is organizing these sector groups so that they function in a well-defined manner. I come to the end of this message of mine with one last request: it is very important for the EPB team and for ADEE, to understand the whole reality of Jamat's business fabric. Therefore, I ask all businessmen and professionals in Jamat to answer a questionnaire that the National Council will send shortly. There are half a dozen questions that will take a little more than five minutes to answer but that will bring a very valuable work base for the institutions. Thank you very much for your availability. Stay safe.
Ya Ali Madad.
round-flag-of-united-kingdom-131008574.jpg
Ya Ali Madad.
About a month ago we suffered a huge change in our lives.
Overnight, companies have decentralized, our homes have become schools, companies or institutions. What at the beginning of the year we thought was impossible or a distant future in days became true. And it is with this new reality in mind, that I address all the families, professionals and entrepreneurs in the Jamat. And I will try to divide this message into three distinct topics:
The first is the need to make an in-depth analysis of the personal, familiar and business economic situation. It is essential to have a realistic plan for the coming months. For that, it is necessary to know in detail the existing liquidity as well as all fixed family or business costs. It is very important to look critically at these fixed costs, to cut what is not essential and to negotiate what is possible. This is a crisis without culprits, it is not the result of the financial sector or sovereign debt. They are all on the same side and everyone is open to finding solutions that minimize the impact. Banks are accepting personal or business credit default. Landlords are open to negotiating postponement of rents and suppliers are accepting longer payment terms. It is important to talk to everyone around us to cooperate, but also to be cooperative, it is essential at this stage to conserve existing liquidity and create good savings habits. It is equally important to know all the tools that the government has made available to us. Many diplomas have been approved in recent weeks. These diplomas involve the postponement of taxes and their payment in fraccions. The simplified lay off, with support from social security or even treasury support lines and working capital, that are already available through banks are, simple lines of easy access that, if well applied, solve short-term treasury problems. There is a huge concern from the governments and central bank to act quickly in order to stimulate and recover the economic part of companies and also families. It is essential that everyone has good legal and tax advice as well as good financial and management advice.
The second point I would like to focus on this message, is the need to think in the medium and long term and the need to reinvent our business, to change the model, to transform ourselves digitally, to adapt our offer to the new reality. It is undeniable that the world has undergone major changes in the past decade. The new slogans like teleworking or collaborative tools, have been around for years. The situation we are now facing has only spread this reality to all sectors. At this point of transformation, younger generations will have a fundamental role. With them and through dialogue, it will be possible to modernize companies. It is very important that this intergenerational dialogue exists, both within families and companies. Mawlana Hazar Imam in his message on March 28th ends by saying: it is important for everyone to think about the new consumption habits that have resulted from this pandemic in the post-crisis period, and analyze how companies can build well in this new reality. And this is true for micro, small, medium or large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity, and that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs. Over the past 25 or 30 years, our families and companies have faced other crises and, luckily, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises brought us and this should be the focus on this moment. it is important for everyone to think about the new consumption habits that have resulted from this pandemic in the post-crisis period, and analyze how companies can build well in this new reality. And this is true for micro, small, medium or large companies. Times of crisis are also times of opportunity, and that should be the focus of our entrepreneurs. Over the past 25 or 30 years, our families and companies have faced other crises and, luckily, we have always known how to take advantage of the opportunities that these crises brought us and this should be the focus on this moment.
The third and final point that I wanted to mention in this message is the need to learn and take lessons from this crisis. And here I think it will be important to go back until July 2019 and remember the speech of the President of the National Council on the occasion of the Imamat Day celebration. In that speech, the president shared with the Jamat some economic guidance that in the current situation makes more sense than ever. Remember, investments must be well analyzed and weighed in terms of risk, as far as possible investments must be diversified, both sectorally and geographically. We should not invest all the capital. We must take into account the free movement and availability of capital. We must instill good management practices in our companies as well as seek to be advised by experts at tax and legal matters. It is extremely important to save and preserve part of the wealth for future generations and finally, work together. It is important that all entrepreneurs and professionals realize the importance of belonging to groups or sectoral clusters where there is sharing of information and knowledge. At this point, ADEE is organizing these sector groups so that they work in a well-defined manner. I come to the end of this message with one last request: it is very important for the EPB and ADEE teams to understand the whole reality of Jamat's business. Therefore, I ask all Jamat businessmen and professionals to answer a survey that the National Council will send shortly. There are around half a dozen questions that will take a little more than five minutes to answer, but that will bring a very valuable work base for the institutions. Thank you very much for your availability. Keep safe.
Ya Ali Madad.
AKEPB - Germany
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board is here to support you. We have prepared a number of useful guides and resources for businesses and individuals.
Pleas click on the links below to download resources in PDF form.
AKEPB Support for Germany and Austria
More...
https://the.ismaili/uk/akepb-germany
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board is here to support you. We have prepared a number of useful guides and resources for businesses and individuals.
Pleas click on the links below to download resources in PDF form.
AKEPB Support for Germany and Austria
More...
https://the.ismaili/uk/akepb-germany
VIDEO: Webinar on the Economic Impact of COVID-19 (Hindi) by the AKEPB,I - 5th April, 2020
On 5th April 2020, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for India organized a webinar on 'The Economic Impact of COVID-19' featuring Mr. B. C. Bharatiya, Mr. Anil Koradia, Mr. Piyush Sinha and Mr. Jamal Pradhan. The webinar was hosted by Mr. Shiraz Vastani.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCaL9M6Vi2s
On 5th April 2020, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for India organized a webinar on 'The Economic Impact of COVID-19' featuring Mr. B. C. Bharatiya, Mr. Anil Koradia, Mr. Piyush Sinha and Mr. Jamal Pradhan. The webinar was hosted by Mr. Shiraz Vastani.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCaL9M6Vi2s
Webinar - Impact of COVID-19 on the Kenyan Economy
Join this Economic Webinar focusing on the impacts of COVID-19 on the Kenyan economy.
Video:
https://the.ismaili/kenya/kenya-news,-m ... an-economy
Join this Economic Webinar focusing on the impacts of COVID-19 on the Kenyan economy.
Video:
https://the.ismaili/kenya/kenya-news,-m ... an-economy
Encouraging Economic Empowerment
Initiatives in the US that assist new arrivals, others with business assistance, job placements, and marketing their products.
Even in one of the richest countries in the world, many are financially insecure, including members of the Jamat, so improving the quality of life of the Jamat is a priority for our institutions. The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (EPB) for the USA is playing a critical role in addressing quality of life for marginalized Jamati members by finding opportunities for income enhancement. Working in partnership with the Quality of Life (QOL) program, EPB has developed a multitude of programs to ensure the economic empowerment of the Jamat. Shenila Babool, member of the EPB, shared some of the key initiatives that the Jamat can leverage.
Immediate Job Placement
Shenila describes this as the “bread and butter” for EPB. The program is designed to address the immediate employment needs of the Jamat, by identifying and placing members into positions such as gas station employees, pizza delivery, food industry workers, among others. “We’ve built relationships with Jamati members who own local businesses, and that helps us accelerate placement,” Shenila explained, adding that in most cases if the member is a good fit, they would get a call back within 48 hours, and could be placed in a new job in 7-15 days. The program is also benefiting local businesses, since they can turn to the EPB when they need quick placements. “It’s a win-win situation across the board,” Shenila said. The program is open to members of all ages and skill levels.
Small Business Initiatives
Technology, growing online consumption, and increasing multiple-income households have opened up opportunities for job seekers to explore more entrepreneurial job options. Leaning into that trend, EPB has identified nine areas of entrepreneurial focus: Online Sales/E-Commerce, Tutoring, Catering, Cell Phone Repair, Child/Adult Care, Uber/Lyft, Ride-Share, Sewing and Alteration.
“We have identified subject matter experts in all of these entrepreneurial fields who will help train those interested,” explained Shenila. “But,” she adds, “this is not a simple placement.” EPB manages these programs holistically, starting with a Small Business Management 101 course through the EPB’s Financial Literacy Planning Program. The two-hour course provides an overview of all the fields of interests, and then supports the Jamat in completing a survey to hone in on one job that they would like to pursue. Participants then receive further, customized training around their chosen job. “The training also focuses on what the member wants to achieve – is it to boost income, will this be a primary mode of income, or are they trying to gain new knowledge? Those factors impact how the person should think about their small business,” said Shenila.
Once someone has started a business, EPB begins to implement the Skills Development Initiative Placement. The initiative takes a more comprehensive view of skills to ensure the individual not only sustains, but also grows and succeeds in the chosen business. “If you’re a bookkeeper, simply taking accounting courses is not enough. You need to learn Excel, you should have some writing skills, you need customer service,” Shenila explained. In partnership with QOL, EPB is evaluating existing courses to customize them further and make sure that once placed, they have the skills to continue and grow in the field.
Yasmin Jivani who leads one of the small business initiatives in Houston, currently manages a group of 11 Jamati women – including those from Afghanistan and other South Asian countries – who collectively run a small business called, “Kuch Khata, Kuch Meetha” (Something Savory, Something Sweet). The women all knew how to cook, but the program provided training on serving at a commercial level, including enhancing the quality of their product. “We gave them the avenue to formalize their business,” explained Yasmin. “The rest is all their hard work.”
In-demand products for the group include samosas, rotis, and puris – traditional savory snacks in South Asia and East Africa. “We trained one lady on how to fry puris, and bought her a domestic tortilla-maker to help,” Yasmin explained. With many hours of practice, the lady was able to perfect her skill, eventually gaining a sizable demand among local patrons. “Eventually, we supported her to buy a commercial tortilla-maker,” Yasmin said with a smile.
“It’s been a life altering experience,” said the lady, who chose to remain anonymous. “I never thought I could manage a business at this scale. Today, I’m able to support my family, I have a community of fellow Jamati members whom I can trust, and run ideas by, and I have hope,” she said. “I can picture myself continuing to grow the business.”
Shenila credits a lot of this progress to the hard work of volunteers, like Yasmin, who work relentlessly, to support the needs of the Jamat. To date, the Small Business Initiative has supported more than 300 Jamati members with various levels of training.
Taking Small Businesses to the Next Level
In addition to supporting new small businesses, a large component of the Jamat is current business owners, looking for new ideas, best practices, new knowledge and opportunities to upscale. EPB’s Sweat Equity Project is designed for individuals who work as employees in existing businesses of Jamati members. “We have a lot of Ismailis who employ other Ismailis in their gas stations, convenience stories, or food franchises,” explained Shenila. Through this program, EPB is designing training in the partnership of trade associations to prepare employees to gain more technical, language skills, and soft skills to be placed in a position where they could become more of an asset for the companies they work for. “Many of these businesses want to grow, and are looking for the right talent to take over the day-to-day responsibilities. Through this program, we prepare that talent, so the employer can focus on growth, while the employee can take on a managing partner role, and gain equity in the business too,” Shenila said.
Supporting Newly-arrived Members
With the rise of immigration from across the world, EPB is working to economically empower them. Partnering with Nizari Credit Union, EPB offers auto loan programs for recent immigrants from Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, and Iran. “This is a critical pain point for Jamati members. Having access to a car opens up the opportunities for them to expand the scope of their potential employment,” Shenila remarks. She also added that it allows the family to become more involved in Jamati activities by bringing young children to ECD or REC programming, which can impact the family’s overall quality of life, and ensure long term sustainability in the US.
“I think this is the best program that the Jamati Institutions could have developed for new immigrants like me,” said a person who used the auto loan program, and chose to remain anonymous. “With a new car, my maintenance cost has gone down drastically. I feel less anxious knowing that my car will not breakdown in the middle of the traffic. I am able to gradually build up my credit score, and am making more money as I can give rides outside of my regular job. Thanks to the Imam's institutions for helping us out.” To date, the program has given loans to 645 members, giving them opportunities to become more engaged within their communities.
FinOnline for Business Owners
Giving business owners more freedom to find opportunities, EPB’s FinOnline platform is a tool that business owners can use for buying and selling businesses, and marketing their products within the Ismaili community. “It’s almost like an Ismaili LinkedIn,” explained Shenila. For example, a small business roti maker could share availability on the portal for someone to obtain. While more active in the Southeast region, EPB is working to strengthen its presence around the country.
EPB is continuing to identify more opportunities to support the growth of the Jamat, while boosting income at a larger scale. Poverty alleviation within the Jamat has continued to be a priority for Jamati Institutions based on Mawlana Hazar Imam’s guidance, and its importance was further enhanced during the Diamond Jubilee year. “We want the Jamat to know that if they are working toward financial sustainability for their families, EPB is there to help them and partner with them,” said Shenila.
https://the.ismaili/usa/our-community/e ... mpowerment
Initiatives in the US that assist new arrivals, others with business assistance, job placements, and marketing their products.
Even in one of the richest countries in the world, many are financially insecure, including members of the Jamat, so improving the quality of life of the Jamat is a priority for our institutions. The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (EPB) for the USA is playing a critical role in addressing quality of life for marginalized Jamati members by finding opportunities for income enhancement. Working in partnership with the Quality of Life (QOL) program, EPB has developed a multitude of programs to ensure the economic empowerment of the Jamat. Shenila Babool, member of the EPB, shared some of the key initiatives that the Jamat can leverage.
Immediate Job Placement
Shenila describes this as the “bread and butter” for EPB. The program is designed to address the immediate employment needs of the Jamat, by identifying and placing members into positions such as gas station employees, pizza delivery, food industry workers, among others. “We’ve built relationships with Jamati members who own local businesses, and that helps us accelerate placement,” Shenila explained, adding that in most cases if the member is a good fit, they would get a call back within 48 hours, and could be placed in a new job in 7-15 days. The program is also benefiting local businesses, since they can turn to the EPB when they need quick placements. “It’s a win-win situation across the board,” Shenila said. The program is open to members of all ages and skill levels.
Small Business Initiatives
Technology, growing online consumption, and increasing multiple-income households have opened up opportunities for job seekers to explore more entrepreneurial job options. Leaning into that trend, EPB has identified nine areas of entrepreneurial focus: Online Sales/E-Commerce, Tutoring, Catering, Cell Phone Repair, Child/Adult Care, Uber/Lyft, Ride-Share, Sewing and Alteration.
“We have identified subject matter experts in all of these entrepreneurial fields who will help train those interested,” explained Shenila. “But,” she adds, “this is not a simple placement.” EPB manages these programs holistically, starting with a Small Business Management 101 course through the EPB’s Financial Literacy Planning Program. The two-hour course provides an overview of all the fields of interests, and then supports the Jamat in completing a survey to hone in on one job that they would like to pursue. Participants then receive further, customized training around their chosen job. “The training also focuses on what the member wants to achieve – is it to boost income, will this be a primary mode of income, or are they trying to gain new knowledge? Those factors impact how the person should think about their small business,” said Shenila.
Once someone has started a business, EPB begins to implement the Skills Development Initiative Placement. The initiative takes a more comprehensive view of skills to ensure the individual not only sustains, but also grows and succeeds in the chosen business. “If you’re a bookkeeper, simply taking accounting courses is not enough. You need to learn Excel, you should have some writing skills, you need customer service,” Shenila explained. In partnership with QOL, EPB is evaluating existing courses to customize them further and make sure that once placed, they have the skills to continue and grow in the field.
Yasmin Jivani who leads one of the small business initiatives in Houston, currently manages a group of 11 Jamati women – including those from Afghanistan and other South Asian countries – who collectively run a small business called, “Kuch Khata, Kuch Meetha” (Something Savory, Something Sweet). The women all knew how to cook, but the program provided training on serving at a commercial level, including enhancing the quality of their product. “We gave them the avenue to formalize their business,” explained Yasmin. “The rest is all their hard work.”
In-demand products for the group include samosas, rotis, and puris – traditional savory snacks in South Asia and East Africa. “We trained one lady on how to fry puris, and bought her a domestic tortilla-maker to help,” Yasmin explained. With many hours of practice, the lady was able to perfect her skill, eventually gaining a sizable demand among local patrons. “Eventually, we supported her to buy a commercial tortilla-maker,” Yasmin said with a smile.
“It’s been a life altering experience,” said the lady, who chose to remain anonymous. “I never thought I could manage a business at this scale. Today, I’m able to support my family, I have a community of fellow Jamati members whom I can trust, and run ideas by, and I have hope,” she said. “I can picture myself continuing to grow the business.”
Shenila credits a lot of this progress to the hard work of volunteers, like Yasmin, who work relentlessly, to support the needs of the Jamat. To date, the Small Business Initiative has supported more than 300 Jamati members with various levels of training.
Taking Small Businesses to the Next Level
In addition to supporting new small businesses, a large component of the Jamat is current business owners, looking for new ideas, best practices, new knowledge and opportunities to upscale. EPB’s Sweat Equity Project is designed for individuals who work as employees in existing businesses of Jamati members. “We have a lot of Ismailis who employ other Ismailis in their gas stations, convenience stories, or food franchises,” explained Shenila. Through this program, EPB is designing training in the partnership of trade associations to prepare employees to gain more technical, language skills, and soft skills to be placed in a position where they could become more of an asset for the companies they work for. “Many of these businesses want to grow, and are looking for the right talent to take over the day-to-day responsibilities. Through this program, we prepare that talent, so the employer can focus on growth, while the employee can take on a managing partner role, and gain equity in the business too,” Shenila said.
Supporting Newly-arrived Members
With the rise of immigration from across the world, EPB is working to economically empower them. Partnering with Nizari Credit Union, EPB offers auto loan programs for recent immigrants from Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, and Iran. “This is a critical pain point for Jamati members. Having access to a car opens up the opportunities for them to expand the scope of their potential employment,” Shenila remarks. She also added that it allows the family to become more involved in Jamati activities by bringing young children to ECD or REC programming, which can impact the family’s overall quality of life, and ensure long term sustainability in the US.
“I think this is the best program that the Jamati Institutions could have developed for new immigrants like me,” said a person who used the auto loan program, and chose to remain anonymous. “With a new car, my maintenance cost has gone down drastically. I feel less anxious knowing that my car will not breakdown in the middle of the traffic. I am able to gradually build up my credit score, and am making more money as I can give rides outside of my regular job. Thanks to the Imam's institutions for helping us out.” To date, the program has given loans to 645 members, giving them opportunities to become more engaged within their communities.
FinOnline for Business Owners
Giving business owners more freedom to find opportunities, EPB’s FinOnline platform is a tool that business owners can use for buying and selling businesses, and marketing their products within the Ismaili community. “It’s almost like an Ismaili LinkedIn,” explained Shenila. For example, a small business roti maker could share availability on the portal for someone to obtain. While more active in the Southeast region, EPB is working to strengthen its presence around the country.
EPB is continuing to identify more opportunities to support the growth of the Jamat, while boosting income at a larger scale. Poverty alleviation within the Jamat has continued to be a priority for Jamati Institutions based on Mawlana Hazar Imam’s guidance, and its importance was further enhanced during the Diamond Jubilee year. “We want the Jamat to know that if they are working toward financial sustainability for their families, EPB is there to help them and partner with them,” said Shenila.
https://the.ismaili/usa/our-community/e ... mpowerment
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for India - Readers Club is pleased to invite you for the next inspirational session of its Book Review Series.
The Book The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran is an all-time spiritual classic that narrates the story of the Prophet Al Mustafa who has lived in the city of Orphalese for 12 years and is about to board a ship which will carry him home. He is stopped by a group of people, with whom he discusses topics such as life and the human condition.
The book provides timeless spiritual wisdom on a range of subjects, including giving, religion, death, beauty, pleasure, friendship, crime and punishment, laws, teaching, time, eating and drinking, clothes, buying and selling and conveys the theme that love is central to everything.
The speaker for the webinar is Mukhisaheb Asif Merchant: B. Com and LLB by qualification and a dedicated volunteer who has been serving the Jamat for more than 20 years. His vast voluntary experience comprises of being a National Board Member at EPB, YSB, and TKN National Team. He has also served as a director of AKHSI and as a Board Member of Prince Aly Khan Hospital. He has a keen interest in Law, is a nature lover and an avid reader.
Asif Mukhisaheb will present the thought provoking concepts from the book in his uniquely engaging style and will leave an ever-lasting impression on you.
Webinar Date: Sunday, 16th August, 2020
Time: 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Click Here to Register!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIp ... w/viewform
The Book The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran is an all-time spiritual classic that narrates the story of the Prophet Al Mustafa who has lived in the city of Orphalese for 12 years and is about to board a ship which will carry him home. He is stopped by a group of people, with whom he discusses topics such as life and the human condition.
The book provides timeless spiritual wisdom on a range of subjects, including giving, religion, death, beauty, pleasure, friendship, crime and punishment, laws, teaching, time, eating and drinking, clothes, buying and selling and conveys the theme that love is central to everything.
The speaker for the webinar is Mukhisaheb Asif Merchant: B. Com and LLB by qualification and a dedicated volunteer who has been serving the Jamat for more than 20 years. His vast voluntary experience comprises of being a National Board Member at EPB, YSB, and TKN National Team. He has also served as a director of AKHSI and as a Board Member of Prince Aly Khan Hospital. He has a keen interest in Law, is a nature lover and an avid reader.
Asif Mukhisaheb will present the thought provoking concepts from the book in his uniquely engaging style and will leave an ever-lasting impression on you.
Webinar Date: Sunday, 16th August, 2020
Time: 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Click Here to Register!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIp ... w/viewform
Crisis as a catalyst: Unlocking opportunities in teaching and education
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board in India has invested in upskilling for teachers, to help them navigate the new world of online education.
Across the world, education has been one of the most severely disrupted areas in the wake of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Through the introduction of various online initiatives, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) in India has invested in upskilling for teachers, to help them navigate the new world of online education.
Through various curated online learning programmes, AKEPB India is encouraging teachers from across the country to connect, learn, and develop new skill sets in their field. These initiatives have prompted many teachers in the Jamat to kickstart their own entrepreneurial ventures, helping them improve their quality of life, even in these challenging times.
“This is a very good time to learn something new in a formal way,” said Anjum, a preschool teacher and centre-head at Ivy International School in Warangal, a city in Southern India’s Telangana state. Since the beginning of India’s nation-wide lockdown in March, Anjum hoped to upgrade her skills and learn new pedagogies that could improve her practice as a teacher in the space of early childhood development (ECD). AKEPB India helped her to tap into programmes to build these skill sets.
In the early stages of the lockdown, AKEPB India launched a series of initiatives to help teachers of the Jamat learn new skills that were critical to navigating the changing nature of jobs and work. With a focus on online education, these initiatives virtually connected teachers across the country to help them learn, develop stellar skill sets, and kickstart their own entrepreneurial ventures.
It all began with a webinar to introduce young teachers to the world of online teaching. Over 400 teachers from across the country joined and demonstrated a keen interest in tapping into the financial potential of the ed-tech space. Since then, AKEPB India has organised several follow-up webinars to make teachers aware of emerging and rewarding opportunities in the online teaching space.
"Covid-19 has been a game changer for India’s ed-tech sector, opening up meaningful opportunities for people across the value chain,” said Aly Jagmagia, National Honorary Secretary for AKEPB India. Citing a research report by RedSeer & Omdiyar Network, Aly pointed out how online education offerings in India are projected to increase significantly. “At EPB, we are extremely excited about this and believe this is a megatrend that Jamati teachers, entrepreneurs, and job seekers can leverage."
The results of these recent programmes, though small to start, are evident. More than 10 teachers have been placed with ed-tech platforms such as Whitehat Jr, Vedantu, and Stone2milestones, and have all seen a significant jump in their incomes.
The institution believes that these results will only scale up further, as the programmes grow in size and capacity. While AKEPB India’s initial focus was on training and job placements for teachers on ed-tech platforms, a separate set of programmes have also supported teachers with entrepreneurial ambitions.
For example, a recently launched phonetics programme helped teachers learn the valuable skill of teaching phonics, which are indispensable to children in the early years of their language development. Run by Inara and Karim Velji, the co-founders of a Pune-based Montessori school called iCube, the virtual training programme was structured as a five-day online course. More than 80 participants from across the country, interested in the area of early childhood education, participated in this programme in two consecutive batches.
While the course lasted only five days, the impact that it had on the participants’ skill sets was far more profound.
“I got to learn so many things, like short vowels and long vowels,” said Afreen Lakhani, a preschool teacher at Fountainhead School, Surat. “Even though I had experience teaching phonics for a year, the programme really helped me to build on my learnings.”
Another pre-school teacher, Anjum, provided further insights into how the programme has helped her to promote the holistic language development of kids right from home.
“It’s like a triple-fold gain: personal gain, gain for the parents I work with, and a gain for the teachers I work with,” she shared.
However, the scope of the impact of this phonetics course was not just limited to learning new skills and improving the teachers’ job prospects. The facilitators engaged with the participants even after the course formally ended to support them in planning their own entrepreneurial ventures. Through the sustained guidance of the facilitators, Afreen has been able to start her own phonetics coaching classes for children online. Speaking about how these classes have opened up another source of income.
While Afreen shared the early impact of her entrepreneurial venture, Anjum shared her plan for the future.
“I am not only using the skills I learnt in these sessions in my job, but I am also thinking of having a parent education programme for phonetic development,” she said.
From Surat to Junagadh, the programme has helped nurture entrepreneurial aspirations in the teaching community. For example, Kinjal Kotadiya, a teacher from Junagadh, started her own Facebook page, “KK Phonetics,” and is all set to launch phonics classes not only for children but also for elderly members of our Jamat who want to learn English.
Apart from this initiative, AKEPB India has also been introducing various certification programmes to help teachers learn new transferable skills that can help with employability and job readiness. One such initiative is the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme, which aims to provide teachers with a deeper understanding of concepts in ECD and equip them with skills to promote a child’s holistic development. Led by Inara Velji, the programme currently has 24 teachers enrolled.
“It’s a foundation course for those interested in this field of early childhood development and education,” said Inara. Reflecting on the economic opportunity in ECD, she explained, “There are a lot of options. You can go into counselling, teaching, start your own day care centre, become a subject teacher, or even start your own tuition classes. So this foundation course will open up so many opportunities for those who participate.”
These initiatives have helped teachers in the Jamat to find pockets of opportunity amidst the crisis so that they can adapt to a rapidly-changing economic environment. They are a testament to the fact that constraints can catalyse positive change, and that continuing education is a potent response to the challenges of our times. By investing in teachers, AKEPB India is continuing a time-honoured tradition of investing in education and lifelong learning as transformational tools to improve the quality of life of the Jamat and wider society.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... -education
The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board in India has invested in upskilling for teachers, to help them navigate the new world of online education.
Across the world, education has been one of the most severely disrupted areas in the wake of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Through the introduction of various online initiatives, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) in India has invested in upskilling for teachers, to help them navigate the new world of online education.
Through various curated online learning programmes, AKEPB India is encouraging teachers from across the country to connect, learn, and develop new skill sets in their field. These initiatives have prompted many teachers in the Jamat to kickstart their own entrepreneurial ventures, helping them improve their quality of life, even in these challenging times.
“This is a very good time to learn something new in a formal way,” said Anjum, a preschool teacher and centre-head at Ivy International School in Warangal, a city in Southern India’s Telangana state. Since the beginning of India’s nation-wide lockdown in March, Anjum hoped to upgrade her skills and learn new pedagogies that could improve her practice as a teacher in the space of early childhood development (ECD). AKEPB India helped her to tap into programmes to build these skill sets.
In the early stages of the lockdown, AKEPB India launched a series of initiatives to help teachers of the Jamat learn new skills that were critical to navigating the changing nature of jobs and work. With a focus on online education, these initiatives virtually connected teachers across the country to help them learn, develop stellar skill sets, and kickstart their own entrepreneurial ventures.
It all began with a webinar to introduce young teachers to the world of online teaching. Over 400 teachers from across the country joined and demonstrated a keen interest in tapping into the financial potential of the ed-tech space. Since then, AKEPB India has organised several follow-up webinars to make teachers aware of emerging and rewarding opportunities in the online teaching space.
"Covid-19 has been a game changer for India’s ed-tech sector, opening up meaningful opportunities for people across the value chain,” said Aly Jagmagia, National Honorary Secretary for AKEPB India. Citing a research report by RedSeer & Omdiyar Network, Aly pointed out how online education offerings in India are projected to increase significantly. “At EPB, we are extremely excited about this and believe this is a megatrend that Jamati teachers, entrepreneurs, and job seekers can leverage."
The results of these recent programmes, though small to start, are evident. More than 10 teachers have been placed with ed-tech platforms such as Whitehat Jr, Vedantu, and Stone2milestones, and have all seen a significant jump in their incomes.
The institution believes that these results will only scale up further, as the programmes grow in size and capacity. While AKEPB India’s initial focus was on training and job placements for teachers on ed-tech platforms, a separate set of programmes have also supported teachers with entrepreneurial ambitions.
For example, a recently launched phonetics programme helped teachers learn the valuable skill of teaching phonics, which are indispensable to children in the early years of their language development. Run by Inara and Karim Velji, the co-founders of a Pune-based Montessori school called iCube, the virtual training programme was structured as a five-day online course. More than 80 participants from across the country, interested in the area of early childhood education, participated in this programme in two consecutive batches.
While the course lasted only five days, the impact that it had on the participants’ skill sets was far more profound.
“I got to learn so many things, like short vowels and long vowels,” said Afreen Lakhani, a preschool teacher at Fountainhead School, Surat. “Even though I had experience teaching phonics for a year, the programme really helped me to build on my learnings.”
Another pre-school teacher, Anjum, provided further insights into how the programme has helped her to promote the holistic language development of kids right from home.
“It’s like a triple-fold gain: personal gain, gain for the parents I work with, and a gain for the teachers I work with,” she shared.
However, the scope of the impact of this phonetics course was not just limited to learning new skills and improving the teachers’ job prospects. The facilitators engaged with the participants even after the course formally ended to support them in planning their own entrepreneurial ventures. Through the sustained guidance of the facilitators, Afreen has been able to start her own phonetics coaching classes for children online. Speaking about how these classes have opened up another source of income.
While Afreen shared the early impact of her entrepreneurial venture, Anjum shared her plan for the future.
“I am not only using the skills I learnt in these sessions in my job, but I am also thinking of having a parent education programme for phonetic development,” she said.
From Surat to Junagadh, the programme has helped nurture entrepreneurial aspirations in the teaching community. For example, Kinjal Kotadiya, a teacher from Junagadh, started her own Facebook page, “KK Phonetics,” and is all set to launch phonics classes not only for children but also for elderly members of our Jamat who want to learn English.
Apart from this initiative, AKEPB India has also been introducing various certification programmes to help teachers learn new transferable skills that can help with employability and job readiness. One such initiative is the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme, which aims to provide teachers with a deeper understanding of concepts in ECD and equip them with skills to promote a child’s holistic development. Led by Inara Velji, the programme currently has 24 teachers enrolled.
“It’s a foundation course for those interested in this field of early childhood development and education,” said Inara. Reflecting on the economic opportunity in ECD, she explained, “There are a lot of options. You can go into counselling, teaching, start your own day care centre, become a subject teacher, or even start your own tuition classes. So this foundation course will open up so many opportunities for those who participate.”
These initiatives have helped teachers in the Jamat to find pockets of opportunity amidst the crisis so that they can adapt to a rapidly-changing economic environment. They are a testament to the fact that constraints can catalyse positive change, and that continuing education is a potent response to the challenges of our times. By investing in teachers, AKEPB India is continuing a time-honoured tradition of investing in education and lifelong learning as transformational tools to improve the quality of life of the Jamat and wider society.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... -education
Checklist For Finding A New Job
Checklist For Finding A New Job
(Last updated 17/10/2020)
Menu
Introduction | Raise Your Industry Profile | Prepare For The Job Search Early | Change Of Industry Or Location | Freelancing Or A Temporary Position | Multiple Employment Channels | Your Brag List | Keep Working On Your Skills | Step Outside Of Your Comfort Zone | Keep A Positive Mental Attitude | Build A Feedback Loop | Further Reading
More...
https://the.ismaili/uk/checklist-finding-new-job
Checklist For Finding A New Job
(Last updated 17/10/2020)
Menu
Introduction | Raise Your Industry Profile | Prepare For The Job Search Early | Change Of Industry Or Location | Freelancing Or A Temporary Position | Multiple Employment Channels | Your Brag List | Keep Working On Your Skills | Step Outside Of Your Comfort Zone | Keep A Positive Mental Attitude | Build A Feedback Loop | Further Reading
More...
https://the.ismaili/uk/checklist-finding-new-job
How does interest compounding work? How should you weigh investment risks and returns? Why does a credit score matter?
Answers to all this and much more, is now available in the RBI’s Financial Awareness Messages (FAME). This is an ongoing communique that is released by the RBI under the Financial Inclusion and Development Department (FIDD).
Review this document to help you understand the basics of Financial Education, Banking, Digital Financial Literacy and Consumer Protection. Click here https://the.ismaili/sites/default/files ... 072020.pdf
https://the.ismaili/india/financial-awa ... sages-fame
Answers to all this and much more, is now available in the RBI’s Financial Awareness Messages (FAME). This is an ongoing communique that is released by the RBI under the Financial Inclusion and Development Department (FIDD).
Review this document to help you understand the basics of Financial Education, Banking, Digital Financial Literacy and Consumer Protection. Click here https://the.ismaili/sites/default/files ... 072020.pdf
https://the.ismaili/india/financial-awa ... sages-fame
A new lease on life: Countering the economic impact of the pandemic
When the pandemic struck and forced a nation-wide lockdown, it decimated thousands of small businesses across India. Gripped by uncertainty, and burdened with the costs of rent and inventory, many small businesses struggled to survive. As an immediate response to support the Jamat’s financial needs, the Ismailia Co-operative Credit Society Limited, Hyderabad (ICCS), launched a new series of financial products, offering a much-needed financial lifeline to the Jamat during this time.
“We had to act”, said Noormohammed Gilani, President of the ICCS, Hyderabad. “Banks had become risk averse and we knew that a large part of our Jamat was being deprived of much-needed credit. Leveraging our knowledge-based lending model, we worked in collaboration with the Council and AKEPB India to support the Jamat at this unprecedented time.”
This support took the form of three types of loans ranging from INR 40k to INR 100k to INR 300k. The first two, called Umeed and Asha, were designed to be simple loans with easy documentation requirements that could help families sustain their financial needs and business expenses during the lockdown. The larger loans, called Hope Loans, were introduced to help businesses sustain themselves beyond the lockdown. Given the larger loan size, Hope Loans were accompanied by individual counselling sessions with the borrower to provide insights on how the loan could be used to reposition the business.
But the lifeline went well beyond financial support. In consultation with the Council, the Board of Directors of the ICCS also worked with many small businesses to help renegotiate their rentals, either bringing them down by up to 50 percent or even negotiating no rental payments for two to three months as small businesses were shut and struggled with cash. When businesses began to reopen, the ICCS visited many of its clients, providing valuable advice on protocols for reopening safely and information on new strategies that could help them to better manage stock purchases and liquidity.
The results were soon evident: with financial support from the ICCS, Jamati bakeries in Hyderabad were among the first to recover. Approximately 60 to 70 percent of bakeries were able to revive between 80 to 90 percent of their business. Now, in the post-lockdown period, the ICCS continues to review loan applications, supporting requests for top ups based on the borrower’s repayment history. In their recent Board Meeting in October, the Board also proposed bringing in a professional advisor to assist Jamati businesses with advice on restructuring, growing their business, and pivoting successfully, post pandemic.
Since the pandemic struck, the Hyderabad ICCS has provided an abundance of financial support to the Jamat, providing stability, comfort, and certainty in these unprecedented times. More importantly, adequate safeguards and controls have been established to protect the institution’s own financial health and liquidity at this time. A robust appraisal mechanism, a collaborative approach in partnership with the Council and AKEPB India and adequate provisioning norms, have all made sure that the ICCS retains its financial strength, which in turn allows it to serve the Jamat.
In the midst of the pandemic and the financial crisis that followed, the Hyderabad ICCS is a shining example of how business and financial support, in collaboration with the Jamati institutions, can support the Jamat’s hopes and aspirations, even in these times.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... e-pandemic
When the pandemic struck and forced a nation-wide lockdown, it decimated thousands of small businesses across India. Gripped by uncertainty, and burdened with the costs of rent and inventory, many small businesses struggled to survive. As an immediate response to support the Jamat’s financial needs, the Ismailia Co-operative Credit Society Limited, Hyderabad (ICCS), launched a new series of financial products, offering a much-needed financial lifeline to the Jamat during this time.
“We had to act”, said Noormohammed Gilani, President of the ICCS, Hyderabad. “Banks had become risk averse and we knew that a large part of our Jamat was being deprived of much-needed credit. Leveraging our knowledge-based lending model, we worked in collaboration with the Council and AKEPB India to support the Jamat at this unprecedented time.”
This support took the form of three types of loans ranging from INR 40k to INR 100k to INR 300k. The first two, called Umeed and Asha, were designed to be simple loans with easy documentation requirements that could help families sustain their financial needs and business expenses during the lockdown. The larger loans, called Hope Loans, were introduced to help businesses sustain themselves beyond the lockdown. Given the larger loan size, Hope Loans were accompanied by individual counselling sessions with the borrower to provide insights on how the loan could be used to reposition the business.
But the lifeline went well beyond financial support. In consultation with the Council, the Board of Directors of the ICCS also worked with many small businesses to help renegotiate their rentals, either bringing them down by up to 50 percent or even negotiating no rental payments for two to three months as small businesses were shut and struggled with cash. When businesses began to reopen, the ICCS visited many of its clients, providing valuable advice on protocols for reopening safely and information on new strategies that could help them to better manage stock purchases and liquidity.
The results were soon evident: with financial support from the ICCS, Jamati bakeries in Hyderabad were among the first to recover. Approximately 60 to 70 percent of bakeries were able to revive between 80 to 90 percent of their business. Now, in the post-lockdown period, the ICCS continues to review loan applications, supporting requests for top ups based on the borrower’s repayment history. In their recent Board Meeting in October, the Board also proposed bringing in a professional advisor to assist Jamati businesses with advice on restructuring, growing their business, and pivoting successfully, post pandemic.
Since the pandemic struck, the Hyderabad ICCS has provided an abundance of financial support to the Jamat, providing stability, comfort, and certainty in these unprecedented times. More importantly, adequate safeguards and controls have been established to protect the institution’s own financial health and liquidity at this time. A robust appraisal mechanism, a collaborative approach in partnership with the Council and AKEPB India and adequate provisioning norms, have all made sure that the ICCS retains its financial strength, which in turn allows it to serve the Jamat.
In the midst of the pandemic and the financial crisis that followed, the Hyderabad ICCS is a shining example of how business and financial support, in collaboration with the Jamati institutions, can support the Jamat’s hopes and aspirations, even in these times.
https://the.ismaili/global/news/communi ... e-pandemic
AKEPB USA: Retirement Savings Webinar for Business Owners - February 2021
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edveG5B31Ks
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edveG5B31Ks
Closing the Gap for Economic Growth
World-renowned for the succulent cherries of Pakistan, this delicious fruit from Hunza almost missed its yearly market debut. Cherry-picking in Hunza was not the same during the COVID-19 pandemic. Oftentimes, traders would book cherry trees and ensure the picking, packaging and transportation of this delicious fruit to market, compensating tree ‘owners’ accordingly. The shutdowns and lockdowns, due to COVID-19, left the cherry growers in a state of dismay, with no intermediaries to link them to market. The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) stepped in to initiate a programme to impart proper techniques of cherry-picking, packaging and linking the growers directly to the market. By filling the market linkage gap, AKEPB saved the cherry growers’ annual income and the wastage of the fruit.
Empowerment is not a silver bullet that can immediately transform one’s life. Rather, it is an intrinsic state of being - equipping individuals with the tools and environment where they feel empowered to live a dignified life. Mawlana Hazar Imam, on numerous accounts, has highlighted the need to improve the quality of life of the Jamat. One way of ensuring this is through economically empowering people. Unfortunately, opportunities for social and economic growth in Pakistan are not readily accessible. For one, they are limited, to begin with, and secondly, their accessibility is often determined by literacy, context and networks.
The Jamati Institutions strive to fill this “accessibility gap” and ensure equitable access to economic resources for all segments of the Jamat. AKEPB has the mandate to explore economic opportunities and avenues that can benefit the Jamat in attaining sustainable livelihoods and to empower beneficiaries to achieve better means of income. This is done through its set of diverse portfolios: financial literacy, entrepreneurship, skills development, specialised training, poverty alleviation, agriculture, employment and job placement. The focus on women’s development is a cross-cutting theme across these portfolios.
As evident from these portfolios, AKEPB strives to cater to the Jamat’s diverse economic needs based on age, gender, literacy level and context. For example, in financial literacy, information sessions conducted by professionals inform the Jamat about savings and investment options, budgeting, understanding country tax laws and retirement planning. The entrepreneurship portfolio selects budding ideas from the seed or development phase to implementation through a process comprising of mentorship, exploring e-commerce avenues, fundraising to market breakthrough. The skills development programme offers vocational skills leading to employment as well as specialised training in hospitality, banking, the health sector and early childhood education.
Huzurman Shah from Arkari, Chitral, is one such beneficiary of AKEPB’s vocational programme.
He explains, “I did not have an educational opportunity however, with the support of AKEPB, I am receiving training in welding. Besides, I am also saving as much as I can to set up my shop in Chitral. I am thankful to the Institutions who support my children's education so I can focus on my training.”
AKEPB provides continuous support to the Jamat engaged in the agricultural sector in Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral and interior Sindh. The support runs from agricultural inputs to attaining linkages in supply chain management. Also, the Jamat is informed of government programmes and subsidies to help them take optimal advantage of agricultural policies. AKEPB is also trying to introduce the youth to agri-industrial opportunities linked with entrepreneurship including processing, packaging and marketing of produce.
Overall, women and youth draw special attention to AKEPB programmes. According to Mr. Ahsan Ali Hussaini, Manager Operations and Programmes, the AKEPB job placement team placed approximately 300 jobs last year, of which 37% of the hires were female. Similarly, in Gahkuch Valley, AKEPB mobilised local women to start the first ladies-only market to allow women to shop with freedom.
Zarina Begum of Chipursan Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan did a beautician course from Karachi facilitated and funded by AKEPB. Upon completion of the course, she returned to Hunza and opened a beauty parlour in Aliabad where she makes sufficient income to support her family.
Furthermore, AKEPB partners with other Jamati Institutions, primarily the Aga Khan Social Welfare Board (AKSWB), as well as external partners comprising of educational institutions, government and private training programmes, subject experts and various industries. This way the neediest Jamati members are identified through the AKSWB and provided with resources to strengthen their financial status to become sustainable. Similarly, AKEPB leverages its strong partnership linkages to place Jamati members on different postings and assists in using online professional resources to strengthen career profiles to stand out in the competitive market. Through these partnerships, AKEPB was able to unleash the entrepreneurial abilities of the Jamat and help establish viable small and medium-sized enterprises.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges for the Jamat and delays in AKEPB programme delivery. Mr. Hussaini shared that many people lost their jobs so AKEPB focused on making the most of online platforms to provide continuous learning to different segments of Jamati members. Those with access to the internet had the opportunity to have a ‘productive pandemic’ by taking AKEPB’s online courses on web and graphic design to earn from home. For those who were unemployed and without internet access, AKEPB introduced the Ustaad-Shagird (teacher and apprentice) model to pair an identified Jamati member with a mentor to learn technical skills such as welding, auto technician, electrical engineering and carpentry.
“I am thankful to AKEPB to select me for the course,” expressed Amin Muhammad from Arkari who was enrolled in the Ustaad-Shagird programme. “I am learning how to make doors, windows, closets and cupboards. This training gave me new perspectives on carpentry skills.”
This pandemic reminded the Jamat of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s guidance on being prepared for market disruptions and identifying trends. AKEPB continuously strives to educate the Jamat on smart financial planning so that they can sustain themselves in times of recession and economic crisis, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://the.ismaili/pakistan/programmes ... mic-growth
World-renowned for the succulent cherries of Pakistan, this delicious fruit from Hunza almost missed its yearly market debut. Cherry-picking in Hunza was not the same during the COVID-19 pandemic. Oftentimes, traders would book cherry trees and ensure the picking, packaging and transportation of this delicious fruit to market, compensating tree ‘owners’ accordingly. The shutdowns and lockdowns, due to COVID-19, left the cherry growers in a state of dismay, with no intermediaries to link them to market. The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) stepped in to initiate a programme to impart proper techniques of cherry-picking, packaging and linking the growers directly to the market. By filling the market linkage gap, AKEPB saved the cherry growers’ annual income and the wastage of the fruit.
Empowerment is not a silver bullet that can immediately transform one’s life. Rather, it is an intrinsic state of being - equipping individuals with the tools and environment where they feel empowered to live a dignified life. Mawlana Hazar Imam, on numerous accounts, has highlighted the need to improve the quality of life of the Jamat. One way of ensuring this is through economically empowering people. Unfortunately, opportunities for social and economic growth in Pakistan are not readily accessible. For one, they are limited, to begin with, and secondly, their accessibility is often determined by literacy, context and networks.
The Jamati Institutions strive to fill this “accessibility gap” and ensure equitable access to economic resources for all segments of the Jamat. AKEPB has the mandate to explore economic opportunities and avenues that can benefit the Jamat in attaining sustainable livelihoods and to empower beneficiaries to achieve better means of income. This is done through its set of diverse portfolios: financial literacy, entrepreneurship, skills development, specialised training, poverty alleviation, agriculture, employment and job placement. The focus on women’s development is a cross-cutting theme across these portfolios.
As evident from these portfolios, AKEPB strives to cater to the Jamat’s diverse economic needs based on age, gender, literacy level and context. For example, in financial literacy, information sessions conducted by professionals inform the Jamat about savings and investment options, budgeting, understanding country tax laws and retirement planning. The entrepreneurship portfolio selects budding ideas from the seed or development phase to implementation through a process comprising of mentorship, exploring e-commerce avenues, fundraising to market breakthrough. The skills development programme offers vocational skills leading to employment as well as specialised training in hospitality, banking, the health sector and early childhood education.
Huzurman Shah from Arkari, Chitral, is one such beneficiary of AKEPB’s vocational programme.
He explains, “I did not have an educational opportunity however, with the support of AKEPB, I am receiving training in welding. Besides, I am also saving as much as I can to set up my shop in Chitral. I am thankful to the Institutions who support my children's education so I can focus on my training.”
AKEPB provides continuous support to the Jamat engaged in the agricultural sector in Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral and interior Sindh. The support runs from agricultural inputs to attaining linkages in supply chain management. Also, the Jamat is informed of government programmes and subsidies to help them take optimal advantage of agricultural policies. AKEPB is also trying to introduce the youth to agri-industrial opportunities linked with entrepreneurship including processing, packaging and marketing of produce.
Overall, women and youth draw special attention to AKEPB programmes. According to Mr. Ahsan Ali Hussaini, Manager Operations and Programmes, the AKEPB job placement team placed approximately 300 jobs last year, of which 37% of the hires were female. Similarly, in Gahkuch Valley, AKEPB mobilised local women to start the first ladies-only market to allow women to shop with freedom.
Zarina Begum of Chipursan Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan did a beautician course from Karachi facilitated and funded by AKEPB. Upon completion of the course, she returned to Hunza and opened a beauty parlour in Aliabad where she makes sufficient income to support her family.
Furthermore, AKEPB partners with other Jamati Institutions, primarily the Aga Khan Social Welfare Board (AKSWB), as well as external partners comprising of educational institutions, government and private training programmes, subject experts and various industries. This way the neediest Jamati members are identified through the AKSWB and provided with resources to strengthen their financial status to become sustainable. Similarly, AKEPB leverages its strong partnership linkages to place Jamati members on different postings and assists in using online professional resources to strengthen career profiles to stand out in the competitive market. Through these partnerships, AKEPB was able to unleash the entrepreneurial abilities of the Jamat and help establish viable small and medium-sized enterprises.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges for the Jamat and delays in AKEPB programme delivery. Mr. Hussaini shared that many people lost their jobs so AKEPB focused on making the most of online platforms to provide continuous learning to different segments of Jamati members. Those with access to the internet had the opportunity to have a ‘productive pandemic’ by taking AKEPB’s online courses on web and graphic design to earn from home. For those who were unemployed and without internet access, AKEPB introduced the Ustaad-Shagird (teacher and apprentice) model to pair an identified Jamati member with a mentor to learn technical skills such as welding, auto technician, electrical engineering and carpentry.
“I am thankful to AKEPB to select me for the course,” expressed Amin Muhammad from Arkari who was enrolled in the Ustaad-Shagird programme. “I am learning how to make doors, windows, closets and cupboards. This training gave me new perspectives on carpentry skills.”
This pandemic reminded the Jamat of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s guidance on being prepared for market disruptions and identifying trends. AKEPB continuously strives to educate the Jamat on smart financial planning so that they can sustain themselves in times of recession and economic crisis, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://the.ismaili/pakistan/programmes ... mic-growth
Launch of New JobSpot Jobs Portal from AKEPB
Employment Support from the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board
AKEPB is pleased to inform the Jamat of the launch of the new JobSpot web portal on IIUK. The new JobSpot site can be found on the homepage listing of https://www.iiuk.org, after you log in.
JobSpot provides a simple tool to search for new jobs and to easily post and amend job adverts. Being on IIUK means you can use your existing login details and it is presented in an environment you are already familiar with.
We strongly encourage all business owners and professionals to post their job vacancies to this new platform. It is free to use and will assist many Jamati members seeking employment at this difficult time. JobSpot also allows you to easily post a web link to an existing advert on another platform. If your organisation requires support or doesn’t have access to IIUK, please email us at [email protected](link sends e-mail) and we can post your advert for you.
For job seekers, JobSpot provides an easy to use interface with fine-grained search features, including sector, type of role (e.g. full-time, temp, work experience), overseas sponsorship and location. The platform provides you with a way to immediately send an email application to employers and will also keep track of your applications. We also provide a full list of resources, guides and support delivered by AKEPB to help you on your journey to employment. For further assistance, please email us at [email protected].(link sends e-mail)
The new JobSpot site can be found on the homepage listing of https://www.iiuk.org, after you log in.
https://the.ismaili/uk/launch-new-jobsp ... rtal-akepb
Employment Support from the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board
AKEPB is pleased to inform the Jamat of the launch of the new JobSpot web portal on IIUK. The new JobSpot site can be found on the homepage listing of https://www.iiuk.org, after you log in.
JobSpot provides a simple tool to search for new jobs and to easily post and amend job adverts. Being on IIUK means you can use your existing login details and it is presented in an environment you are already familiar with.
We strongly encourage all business owners and professionals to post their job vacancies to this new platform. It is free to use and will assist many Jamati members seeking employment at this difficult time. JobSpot also allows you to easily post a web link to an existing advert on another platform. If your organisation requires support or doesn’t have access to IIUK, please email us at [email protected](link sends e-mail) and we can post your advert for you.
For job seekers, JobSpot provides an easy to use interface with fine-grained search features, including sector, type of role (e.g. full-time, temp, work experience), overseas sponsorship and location. The platform provides you with a way to immediately send an email application to employers and will also keep track of your applications. We also provide a full list of resources, guides and support delivered by AKEPB to help you on your journey to employment. For further assistance, please email us at [email protected].(link sends e-mail)
The new JobSpot site can be found on the homepage listing of https://www.iiuk.org, after you log in.
https://the.ismaili/uk/launch-new-jobsp ... rtal-akepb
Wills, Guardianship and Succession Planning in the GCC (Legal Matters & AKEPB Webinar)
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNGx9xfIxak&t=299s
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNGx9xfIxak&t=299s
Jio Zindagi Dobara: An Initiative by Aga Khan Economic Planning Board for India, WI
India time - June 5th 4:15 PM
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6dPIa0HtEw
********
VIDEO: Ask Me Anything - Health Insurance LIVE
India time - Sunday June 6th 11:30 AM
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvD0ZzvAMe8
India time - June 5th 4:15 PM
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6dPIa0HtEw
********
VIDEO: Ask Me Anything - Health Insurance LIVE
India time - Sunday June 6th 11:30 AM
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvD0ZzvAMe8
MVMP 2.0 Team Leaders - Session 1 (Team Orientation)
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCYXPt5Y1b4
*******
Maro Vyaapar Maari Pragati 2.0 Session 1
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMpO3sowKoY
******
Maro Vyaapar Maari Pragati 2.0 Session 2
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyrEO0v8qig
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCYXPt5Y1b4
*******
Maro Vyaapar Maari Pragati 2.0 Session 1
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMpO3sowKoY
******
Maro Vyaapar Maari Pragati 2.0 Session 2
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyrEO0v8qig
AKEPB, I Presents Get Job Ready - Session 1
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v8Tj5TEW-M
Get Job Ready 2021 is a six-session series to help Young professionals and College students Get ready for the Job Market in 2021. The sessions include - Career trends, Softskills - Resume and Interview tips, Linkedin and will also introduce participants to new concepts such as the Gig Economy, Certifications, Companies that guarantee jobs, etc.
This series is a must-attend for anyone in their early career, college students or mid-career professionals looking to change their industry or alter their career path."
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v8Tj5TEW-M
Get Job Ready 2021 is a six-session series to help Young professionals and College students Get ready for the Job Market in 2021. The sessions include - Career trends, Softskills - Resume and Interview tips, Linkedin and will also introduce participants to new concepts such as the Gig Economy, Certifications, Companies that guarantee jobs, etc.
This series is a must-attend for anyone in their early career, college students or mid-career professionals looking to change their industry or alter their career path."