Her journey began at 17, working long 16-hour days at KFC. Faced with teenage alcohol issues and being evicted from her home, Xxlayna’s determination to change her life’s trajectory never waned. She worked as a forklift driver in a homewares distribution center, but a significant turning point came with unemployment. She embraced this challenge, sharing bold photos on social media, leading to a rapid increase in her online following.

Her growing social media presence caught the eye of modeling and adult work agencies, opening doors to financial success and the life she had always envisioned. November 2020 marked a pivotal moment for Xxlayna when, at 20, she entered an alcohol rehab center, setting her sights on a brighter, sober future.

Today, Xxlayna resides in Las Vegas, living the dream she once imagined, filled with dazzling lights and boundless opportunities. Grateful for the support she’s received and her ability to help her family, Xxlayna looks to the future with plans to save, invest in real estate, and start a non-profit to assist those struggling with alcohol abuse.

Xxlayna Marie’s story is a powerful narrative of triumph over hardship, illustrating that with determination and a change in mindset, transformative life changes are possible.

LONDON – Karaca, a prominent brand in the Turkish home and lifestyle sector for 50 years, is delighted to announce the opening of its second store in the United Kingdom, situated at Westfield London, Europe’s largest shopping centre. This move marks a significant step in Karaca’s global expansion strategy, following the success of its inaugural store in London’s Islington Square.

Founded in 1973, Karaca has evolved into a household name in Türkiye, renowned for its diverse array of over 28,000 products. The brand has revolutionized the home and lifestyle industry with its innovative and high-quality offerings, ranging from kitchen essentials and tableware to small household appliances and elegant home accessories. Among its standout products is the Fine Pearl Collection, the world’s first and only dinner set made from real pearls, exemplifying Karaca’s commitment to exceptional design and craftsmanship.

Strategic investment in the UK marks the start of global market expansion

Karaca‘s international presence spans 48 countries with 305 stores and more than 2,000 sales points, and is testimony to its enduring legacy and popularity. The company’s expansion into the UK market is a strategic move to cement its position as a leader in the global market.

Cihangir Çetintırnak, Country Director of Karaca UK, remarked, “After a solid history of 50 years, our vision is to establish ourselves as one of the top three brands in our category not just in Europe and America, but across the world. The opening of our second store in Westfield London, is a crucial milestone in achieving our 2030 vision. Following the success of our Islington Square store and our growing presence in the UK e-commerce market, we are enthusiastic about using the UK market as a springboard for expanding our global presence.”

Strengthening UK-Türkiye trade relations for a new era of economic partnership

The expansion of Karaca in the UK aligns with the broader context of burgeoning trade relations between the United Kingdom and Türkiye. UK government has recently initiated a call for input so as to establish a new, modernised free trade agreement (FTA) with Türkiye. This FTA aims to supersede the existing agreement, which is based on outdated provisions from the 1990s and limited to goods trading only.

The new FTA will be more encompassing, covering new sectors such as technical and digital services, tech, so as to serve more effectively the needs of the 21st-century economy. The growing volume in trade, which reached a figure of £26 billion in the 12 months leading up to June 2023 further highlights Türkiye’s role as one of the top 20 trading partners for the UK.

Karaca’s growth in the UK market is a reflection of this blossoming economic relationship. The updated FTA is expected to create more opportunities for Turkish companies to establish and expand their presence in London and across the UK, fostering a dynamic business environment and enhancing cultural exchange.

Contact: Yasin Erdurmuş, yasin.erdurmus@idea-pr.com

About Karaca:
Karaca Group, with 11 brands including Karaca Home and Emsan, operates globally with a workforce of just under 3,500 employees. It brings together a wide range of products in over 140 categories, from innovative dinnerware to cutting-edge home appliances, under its flagship brand.

This year’s ceremony marked the graduation of 108,084 individuals, following 103,764 in 2019 and 106,186 in 2022. Notably, the graduates included 6,724 current and former pastors, a significant increase from the previous year’s 100,000 graduation ceremony.

The ‘100,000 Graduation Ceremony’ saw over 100,000 graduates join the Shincheonji Church of Jesus this year. The event on the 12th was executed flawlessly, without a single safety incident.

The Zion Christian Mission Center, a Bible education institute of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, organised the ‘Shincheonji 12 Tribes Zion Christian Mission Center Class 114 Graduation Ceremony’ at Daegu Stadium. The total graduates from this 100,000 graduation ceremony numbered 108,084, marking the third instance of surpassing 100,000 graduates, following the previous counts in 2019 and 2022.

Chairman Lee Man-hee of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus initiated the ceremony with an opening declaration, followed by global congratulatory messages, including one from former Romanian Constitutional Court Judge Petre Lazaroiu. In his speech, Chairman Lee encouraged the attendees, stating, “God will be watching our gathering. Let’s make a good world according to God’s will.”

Chairman Lee highlighted the significance of the Bible content studied by the graduates, particularly the Book of Revelation. He emphasised, “The book of Revelation is not long, but it contains tremendous content about the coming of God’s kingdom.” He also said, “The fact that God and heaven come to this earth and become one means that it becomes a holy world ruled by God,” urging, “let’s make a good world according to God’s will.”

Tan Young-jin, Chairman of the Zion Christian Mission Center, in his congratulatory message, noted, “[graduates] have heard the highest revelation word in 6,000 years directly and confirmed what God promised today. So I believe you have clearly perceived who ‘I’ am in the Bible. Let’s lead the way in fulfilling all nations together and achieving peace in the global village.”

The ceremony featured a 15-minute card section performance titled ‘New Testament Revelation Witnessed by Shincheonji: Events of Betrayal, Destruction, and Salvation’, led by over 10,000 people. The performance, a visual representation of the ‘Entire chapters of the Revelation’, was met with enthusiastic response.

Graduate Jung Hyun-mo, Vice President of Education at I.U.C. Graduate School in Korea, shared his experience, stating, “I was invited as guest to the 100,000 graduation ceremony of Class 113 last year. I was curious about the secret of gathering 100,000 people every year despite severe persecution, and I was particularly curious about how the young people who filled the stadium were so energetic and lively. I started taking courses at the Zion Christian Mission Center because I was told that the secret was the word [Bible].” He added, “The level of the word was really a difference between heaven and earth. Shincheonji testified not only to the true meaning of Revelation but also to the reality as prophesied. I will repay this grace and love as a child of light who delivers the word of God.”

This year’s ceremony saw a record-breaking 6,274 domestic and international pastors and seminarians graduate, drawing global attention and marking a tenfold increase from the previous year.

The event’s success was attributed to meticulous planning in safety and order. The church implemented a detailed traffic plan, utilised about 2,200 tour buses, and assigned over 14,000 safety officers and staff, ensuring a smooth and secure experience. Medical facilities and emergency care were also well-prepared.

A Shincheonji Church of Jesus spokesperson commented on the event’s success, “As it is a large-scale event, we focused on safety and order. We also put a lot of effort into building a medical system, such as emergency rescue training and medical staff placement, to prepare for temperature drops and any emergencies.” They added, “Among the world’s denominations, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus is the only place where more than 100,000 believers gather in one year. This is because the word of truth is in Shincheonji and because God and Jesus are with us. I hope you will definitely confirm the word and become one in the Bible.”

The ‘Wagh Nakh,’ a formidable iron weapon resembling tiger claws, holds a special place in the chronicles of Indian history as it was wielded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

A dedicated three-member team, led by Maharashtra’s esteemed Minister of Cultural Affairs, Shri Sudhir Mungantiwar, along with Mr. Vikas Kharge (Principal Secretary, Cultural Affairs), and Mr. Garge (Director, Archaeology and Museums), traveled to London to formalize this momentous agreement.

The transfer contract between the respective parties is likely to be signed on 15 November 2023.

Once the ‘Wagh Nakh’ returns to India, it will be housed in various museums across Maharashtra, where the public will have the privilege of viewing this symbol of valor and victory. The ‘Wagh Nakh’ will be displayed at Satara’s Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Nagpur Museum, Kolhapur Museum, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastusamgrahalaya, Mumbai. As per the agreement, the artifact will return to London after the agreed duration of 3 years and will be placed at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Designed with precision to slash through skin and muscle, this weapon is currently housed within London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, serving as a testament to India’s rich heritage.

After the signing ceremony of the historic MoU, Minister Shri Sudhir Mungantiwar expressed his optimism, stating, “As we celebrate the 350th anniversary of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, we had resolved to bring back the ‘Wagh Nakh’ to its rightful home. This historic artifact should serve as an inspiration for the people of our country to emulate the unwavering dedication and bravery of our beloved leaders. We have signed the MoU paving the way for the ‘Wagh Nakh’ to return to India in November.”

In his appeal to the people of Maharashtra, he said, “After the ‘Wagh Nakh’ arrives in India, it will be displayed in various museums under the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums in the future. I am requesting not only the people of Maharashtra but also the people of India to participate in large numbers in the exhibition of the ‘Wagh Nakh’ and other Maratha weapons that were useful for Swaraj, take inspiration from this Shivshastra saga, and behave in a manner that enhances the spirit of patriotism.”

This landmark endeavor not only honors the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj but also represents a powerful symbol of cultural pride and historical resurgence for the people of Maharashtra and all of India.

A Turkish court has issued a deportation order for 103 members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light from seven countries. If sent back to their countries of origin, many of them, especially in Iran, face imprisonment and the risk of execution.

Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) in Brussels is calling upon the United Nations, particularly the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Ms Nazila Ghanea, the European Union, especially the EU Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Mr Frans Van Daele, as well as the European Parliament’s Intergroup on Freedom of Religion or Belief, and the Special Envoys on Freedom of Religion or Belief appointed in the United Kingdom and several EU Member States, and the OSCE/ODIHR to urge the Turkish authorities to cancel the deportation decision on appeal. The deadline for the appeal is today.

First-hand testimonies, voice recordings, and photographs provided by the detained members provide detailed accounts of the torture and abuse inflicted upon them by Turkish authorities.

Among the detained members, 30 individuals, including 10 women and 2 children, report severe injuries. Despite their requests for hospital visits, they have been denied medical attention. Redouane Foufa, a member from Algeria, reports being beaten and injected with an unknown substance. He further describes in a voice recording how women and children were subjected to torture methods, including deprivation of food, water, sleep, and being forced to stand in the sun.

Hassan Oyandi, a Turkish member, shares a video testimony of being heavily beaten, with visible bruises and swellings evident in photographs.

Two UK amateur journalists, Sermad Al-Khafaji and Alexandra Foreman, who accompanied the group, were also detained and accused of being British agents. Mrs. Foreman describes being held under extremely poor conditions and witnessing a group being beaten. Sermad Al-Khafaji reports in a video testimony that he was severely mistreated and beaten.

These actions clearly violate Article 148 of the Turkish Criminal Procedure Code, which prohibits bodily or mental interventions such as misconduct, torture, and the administration of medicines.

The torture inflicted upon our members constitutes a flagrant violation of their human rights. We urge the international community to hold Turkey accountable for the torture and abuse suffered by our members and ensure their protection and safety. We also call on the UNHCR and the European Union to recommend them for resettlement.

In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Gene Avakyan, an aerospace engineer and entrepreneur, is determined to make a difference. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Avakyan left the country as a child, but his connection to his birthplace and the impact of war on his homeland have never faded. Now, with his company Edison Aerospace, Avakyan has developed electric planes that he believes can change the world, and he wants them to be utilized in the war effort.

Avakyan’s journey from his childhood in Ukraine to becoming a leader in aviation technology has been remarkable. At the age of nine, he and his family embarked on a treacherous journey, navigating a railway yard and encountering armed soldiers to escape the country. Eventually settling in the United States, Avakyan’s passion for aviation and space travel led him to pursue a career in aerospace engineering.

Initially, Avakyan founded Edison Aerospace to develop robotic aircraft for crop-dusting, but his aspirations quickly expanded. He envisions his creations being used in military operations, such as locating anti-aircraft missile batteries and delivering cargo and munitions. Avakyan has engaged in discussions with US defense officials and Ukrainian politicians to explore the potential applications of his aircraft designs for the Ukrainian military.

Reflecting on his personal history and the urgency of the conflict in Ukraine, Avakyan states, “My mission as an entrepreneur is to really help Ukraine down the road, both with military and agricultural aviation because it’s a huge market for agriculture and will require modernization of its defense capabilities.” Avakyan’s electric planes, capable of lifting a ton of weight and flying for 100 miles, have the potential to revolutionize not only the military sector but also agricultural practices worldwide.

Avakyan’s technology involves electric, optionally-manned aircraft that can be piloted from a ground-based truck trailer or operate autonomously. With a flight duration of approximately one hour and a battery comparable in size to a Tesla Model Three, these full-sized planes possess a 40-foot wingspan and carry 200 gallons of payload for spraying. Avakyan aims to replace the currently manned spray aircraft, which pose significant risks to pilots’ lives due to low-altitude, high-speed maneuvers.

Beyond the war efforts, Avakyan’s innovative aircraft could contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine and enhance agricultural practices globally. Crop spraying, a dangerous task conducted by pilots flying at low altitudes and high speeds, often leads to fatal accidents. Avakyan believes his planes will help prevent these tragedies and enable existing pilots to transition to flying his safer and more cost-effective aircraft. By reducing operating costs for crop-dusting companies, Avakyan’s planes have the potential to improve their profitability and contribute to the industry’s growth.

Avakyan’s vision extends beyond military and agricultural applications. He anticipates the development of electric passenger planes, starting with air taxis, and seeks funding to build prototypes. In collaboration with his wife, Victoria Unikel, an artist and businesswoman, Avakyan has founded several other successful businesses, including VUGA Media Group, Gossip Stone TV, and 24Fashion TV. Their partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration and complements their respective areas of expertise.

Reflecting on the journey from his tumultuous childhood to his current success, Avakyan expresses gratitude for the opportunities he now enjoys. He acknowledges the sacrifices his parents made to provide him with a life free from the oppression of communist rule. Avakyan’s unwavering commitment to his homeland and his pursuit of technological advancements serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to make a positive impact.

As Gene Avakyan continues to work with the US Federal Government’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), his electric planes hold the potential to transform the aviation and agricultural sectors while assisting Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty. With innovation and determination, Avakyan strives to not only change the world but also be on the right side of history.