EBRD and EU support Turkmen strawberry business Tudana (Founder Batyr Ravshanov)

Entrepreneur Batyr Ravshanov, who produces strawberries in Turkmenistan under the Tudana brand, has received support and grant incentives from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU), the EBRD said in a press release on Tuesday.

On the photo: The founder of the Turkmen strawberry business Tudana speaks at the BigBoss Global Business Forum in Glasgow, UK.

On the photo: Spouse of the Founder of Turkmen strawberry business Tudana Bahara Ravshanova receives an Award at the BigBoss Global Business Forum in Glasgow, UK for outstanding services to the Tudana business.

In 2020, Tudana received a loan from the EBRD and a grant from the EU, which allowed it to expand its production area by 1.5 hectares and gain valuable knowledge and advice.

As part of this program, international consultants worked with Batyr Ravshanov, the owner of Tudana, to improve the irrigation system of the greenhouses and promote sustainable water use practices. They also conducted a thorough analysis of water availability, climate conditions and light conditions to propose appropriate changes to the composition of fertilizers.

Fashion with Purpose: How World Woman Club’s Fashion Show Idea Was Born 11 years ago: 2013-2024

The International Club of Successful Women WORLD WOMAN CLUB (www.world-woman.com) 11 years ago came up with a FASHION PROJECT “WOMEN FOR CHILDREN” to do charitable deeds beautifully and set an example for society.

Fashion with Purpose: How World Woman Club’s Fashion Show Idea Was Born

The World Woman Club’s fashion show isn’t just an ordinary event—it’s an initiative born from a vision to create meaningful connections and make a positive impact across multiple levels. It all began with a simple idea: what if fashion could not only be beautiful but also serve as a force for good? Here’s how this idea blossomed into a platform that will uplift Club members, support designers, expand media opportunities, and contribute to charitable causes—all while showcasing the power of women supporting each other in business and philanthropy.

1. A Unique Fashion Experience for Club Members At its heart, the fashion show will provide Club members with the chance to create or purchase new, exquisite dresses designed specifically by talented designers. This exclusive experience allows members to collaborate directly with designers to create unique pieces that reflect their individual styles, while simultaneously supporting the creative industry.

2. Expanding Opportunities for Fashion Designers The show offers designers a prestigious platform to showcase their work to an international audience. For emerging talents, it’s an invaluable opportunity to gain exposure and attract new orders, connecting with clients from around the world who appreciate their artistry. By participating in this event, designers are empowered to grow their businesses and establish a lasting presence on the global stage.

3. A Boost for Media Professionals For media professionals and content creators, the event presents new opportunities for collaboration and visibility. The event’s global appeal means media outlets can create compelling content that resonates worldwide, gaining new audiences and building their brand’s presence in international markets.

4. Fundraising for Charitable Organizations The fashion show goes beyond just showcasing beautiful garments—it’s also an opportunity to give back. A portion of the funds raised from each dress purchase will go to charity, supporting initiatives that align with the World Woman Club’s values. By bringing awareness and funding to these causes, the show helps create a direct, positive impact on society.

5. Supporting Children in Need One of the most inspiring aspects of the fashion show is its commitment to helping children in need. By dedicating a portion of the proceeds to organizations that support disadvantaged children, the event not only provides immediate assistance but also raises awareness about the importance of supporting the younger generation.

6. Demonstrating the Power of Women-Driven Initiatives Ultimately, the show is a powerful example of how women can unite to uplift each other’s businesses, build community, and create societal change. The event itself is a testament to the power of female-driven philanthropy and collaboration, reinforcing how women can use their influence and resources to benefit not only their immediate circle but also the world around them.

How Wonderfully Feminine! The World Woman Club’s fashion show isn’t just an event; it’s a movement that embodies how women can inspire, uplift, and drive positive change on all levels. By turning a celebration of fashion into a meaningful experience, the Club is setting an example of what women can accomplish together—for themselves, for each other, and for the world

Five great women: Olga Azarova (Founder & President of the WORLD WOMAN CLU, Larisa Lobanova (world-known Fashion Designer), Svitlana Gerey (WWC Co-Founder, Mediaholding 100% Director), Viktoria Chindatskaya, and Aurika Vranchanu invented this idea. The initiative of the International Club of Successful Women was taken up by women from the UK, Ukraine, Germany, France, USA, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, and Turkmenistan.

Concept: Leading by example to popularize philanthropy, uniting women’s initiatives across five key areas — design, media, business, social impact, and club community.

In 2013, a unique charity fashion project called "WOMEN FOR CHILDREN" was launched, aimed at bringing women together to make a meaningful impact through five key areas of collaboration. This initiative combines fashion, leadership, and philanthropy to create a powerful movement that supports those in need while elevating designers and businesswomen.

Deeper Trends in Educational Franchises: Where Learning Meets Business Acumen

The franchise model has proven remarkably adaptable across various industries, and the education sector is no exception. Educational franchises are tapping into the growing demand for specialized skills, supplemental learning, and innovative approaches to prepare students for future success. Within this landscape, let's examine some deeper trends and a pioneering leader in children's business education:

Trends Shaping Educational Franchises

• Beyond Traditional Subjects: Educational franchises are no longer solely focused on core subjects like math and reading. We're seeing a rise in franchises specializing in STEM, coding, robotics, financial literacy, and even soft skills development.
• The Skills Gap: There's an urgent need to equip students with the skills they'll need in an increasingly complex and competitive workforce. Educational franchises are addressing this gap with a focus on entrepreneurship, problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability.
• Technology-Driven Learning: From interactive online platforms to engaging educational apps, technology is reshaping learning environments. Educational franchises are embracing these tools to create dynamic and personalized experiences.
• Holistic Development: Parents are looking for well-rounded educational programs. Franchises that incorporate aspects of social-emotional learning, creativity, and leadership development alongside core subjects will stand out.

The MINIBOSS & BIGBOSS Model: Pioneering Business Education for Young Minds

Kyiv: An Ancient City That Defies Time—Over 2700 Years of History and Power

Kyiv is not 1500, 2000, or 2661 years old. It’s over 2700: The True History of Kyiv's Greatness

Kyiv, the majestic capital of Ukraine, carries with it a history that stretches far beyond what is traditionally acknowledged. While many associate Kyiv’s foundation with the Kyivan Rus era, with its age often cited as 1500, 2000, or 2661 years, archaeological evidence suggests that Kyiv is more than 2700 years old. This realization repositions Kyiv as one of the world’s most ancient continuously inhabited cities, with an origin story that intertwines with the earliest civilizations of Eastern Europe.

Kyiv’s Prehistoric Foundations

Before the establishment of Kyivan Rus, the region where Kyiv stands today was home to numerous cultures that predate the Slavic era. Evidence suggests that settlements existed here long before the city's legendary foundation by the brothers Kyi, Shchek, and Khoryv. The most ancient roots of Kyiv trace back to the Scythian period, with the Scythians known for their advanced craftsmanship, nomadic lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage. This connection to the Scythians places Kyiv in the same historic period as other ancient cities of Europe and Asia, bridging Kyiv’s history with the broader ancient world.

Another key influence on Kyiv’s development is the Trypillia culture, which flourished between 5500 and 2750 BCE. The Trypillian civilization, known for its advanced agricultural techniques and impressive clay architecture, left significant traces in the Kyiv region. The Trypillians contributed to the rise of urban centers, fostering early trade routes and cultural exchanges that would later become essential in Kyiv’s evolution as a trade hub. These deep roots reflect Kyiv’s critical role long before its rise to prominence in the medieval era.

Kyivan Rus and the Golden Age of Kyiv

Kyiv's most celebrated historical phase is undoubtedly its time as the capital of Kyivan Rus, a powerful medieval state that flourished between the 9th and 13th centuries. The foundation of Kyivan Rus in the late 9th century is often seen as Kyiv’s true beginning, but this perspective overlooks centuries of cultural development before this time. When Kyiv became the heart of Kyivan Rus, it had already been a significant trading and political center for centuries, positioned strategically on the Dnipro River, linking the Black Sea to Northern Europe.

During the Kyivan Rus era, Kyiv reached the height of its power, transforming into a vibrant cultural and religious center. The adoption of Christianity in 988 CE by Prince Volodymyr the Great marked a pivotal moment for Kyiv. The city became the spiritual capital of the region, with the construction of grand cathedrals, monasteries, and churches. Kyiv’s connections to the Byzantine Empire, particularly through religion and architecture, positioned it as one of the most important cities in Eastern Europe.

The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves), founded in 1051, remains a testament to Kyiv’s significance during this era. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important Christian monasteries in the world and continues to symbolize Kyiv’s historical and spiritual influence.

The Mongol Invasion and Decline

Despite its golden age, Kyiv faced a catastrophic setback with the Mongol invasion of 1240. The Mongols, under the leadership of Batu Khan, sacked the city, leaving much of it in ruins. This marked the end of Kyivan Rus as a dominant power and the beginning of a period of decline for Kyiv. However, even in the aftermath of destruction, Kyiv’s influence endured. The Mongol invasion did not erase its legacy; rather, Kyiv’s heritage continued to shape the identities of other emerging Eastern European powers, particularly the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and later the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Kyiv’s Rebirth and Modern Role

Kyiv's history of resilience shines through its ability to recover from multiple invasions, including the Mongol, Polish, and later Russian occupations. Over the centuries, Kyiv rebuilt itself repeatedly, evolving from a medieval capital into a modern European city.