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Beyond Degrees: Crafting a meaningful CV and living a fulfilled story- Ibrahim Zulkifli

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Ibrahim Zulkifli is a developer advocate and community relations manager with deep expertise in Growth, Marketing and Community Engagement. He is passionate about building and fostering thriving communities. With a background in software development and a deep understanding of the latest technologies, he is well-equipped to educate and engage with developers and enthusiasts. In this latest piece, he charges students in tertiary institutions to develop their CV intentionally. Here are the excerpts…..
You went to school
Spent 4 years reading
Came out with a 2-1
Waited a few months
Began the NYSC orientation camp
Jogged. Ran. Marched.
Served as a teacher in a public school. Maybe one village in Taraba State.
A year’s almost over.
It’s time to job hunt.
You are told to construct a CV
It features when you had your SSCE
And when you bagged your first degree.
Period.
It’s empty sheets from then on.
You joined no groups in school.
You joined no communities outside of school.
Competed in no sports.
Volunteered for nothing.
Didn’t work in any NGO.
Led no initiatives.
Started no businesses.
Just a flat, asystolic life!
Then you say they didn’t pick you for the job because there’s too much competition.
That’s right. You knew that before you graduated judging by how many people were in your final year class but did nothing about improving your chances.
School was supposed to be the place you read.
But it was supposed to tell where you’d invest your time in if books were not in the way.
A 2-1 or First-class doesn’t tell any story about you.
It tells what your lecturers felt about your grades.
They are not your employers. Scarcely would be.
Now that you want successful business leaders to notice you and offer you a spot in their companies…
They’ll need to know what kind of risks you take
What kind of ventures you have led
What kind of movements you have joined?
The ones you abandoned and the ones you accomplished.
This is the weight your story has to carry.
If you don’t have that on your CV, you don’t have a CV.
It’s time to face the facts — Please, If you have younger siblings, don’t be merely interested in their grades.
Make them volunteer.
Let them sell something,
Let them learn something,
Let them do something.
Let them live.
Having a blank CV after 4 -6 years of university education and a year of national youth service is a fatal ill-preparedness for the future, for which there’s no reversal.
There are times you can never make up for.
One of them is time you should have truly lived, and you didn’t.

Brand Excellence through Trademarks: The Case of NEW YORK TIMES

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New York Times is a shining example of journalistic excellence in the ever-changing global news media landscape. Its trademarks are more than just identifiers; they are strategic assets that help build brand recognition and a strong competitive position. This is why the New York Times has endured so long.

News Product: The Pillar of Credibility

New York Times’ news output, which is a monument to the objectivity and integrity of journalism, is at its core. Not only does this essential editorial content educate readers, but it also strikes a chord with both free and paid subscribers. Because of its unwavering dedication to objectivity, the newspaper is seen as a reliable source and enjoys unmatched brand awareness, particularly in the United States. This trademark represents New York Times‘ cornerstone of authority in a media landscape where credibility is critical.

The Athletic: Elevating Specialized Content

It is a specialised content (sports media product) acquired on February 1, 2022. It is a value added to the general editorial products by placing the medium as a brand with a dedicated product for sports content, capitalising on existing reputation of The Athletic.

With the purchase of The Athletic, diversification reached a new height and New York Times became something more than a journalistic organization. By appealing to sports fans and utilising The Athletic‘s well-established name, this approach provides value strategically. It establishes the medium as a full brand, meeting a range of content requirements and enhancing its reputation within the international news media sector.

Cooking and Games: Niche Expertise

This focuses on capturing readers and subscribers with the interesting cooking skills and knowledge. It is also a value-added intangible asset based on the specific market segment captured and the medium’s positioning as a renowned brand for specialised cooking skills and knowledge.

The trademarks ‘Cooking’ and ‘Games’ demonstrate how well New York Times understands different business niches. By providing specific culinary and brainteaser game content, the newspaper attracts different types of readers. These trademarks strengthen the medium’s competitive position by enhancing brand appeal and establishing it as the go-to source for a variety of interests.

Audm: Embracing Modern Consumption

In a time when people’s attention is divided, Audm stands out as a progressive brand. Through the availability of a read-aloud audio service on websites and mobile applications, New York Times presents itself as a company that understands modern reading habits. This adaptability recognizes the value of time management and multitasking in today’s fast-paced world and fosters brand loyalty.

Wirecutter: Building Brand Personality

Wirecutter explores the world of reviews and recommendations in addition to traditional journalism. New York Times uses its own goodwill to become a source of guidance for businesses looking to strengthen their brand identity. The newspaper’s dedication to neutrality is demonstrated by its trademark, which increases its power and market domination.

Masthead and Logo: Icons of Distinction

The recognizable Masthead, with its distinct antique font style, acts as the title and company mark, allowing for simple recognition in a sea of media outlets. The interchangeability of the Logo and Masthead guarantees that readers can quickly identify New York Times, which is critical for maintaining a strong brand presence.

Goodwill: A Multiplying Force

Readers’ acknowledgement and trust, particularly from specialists, add to the intangible asset of goodwill. New York Times gains new readers and subscribers as a result of this multiplier effect. The newspaper deliberately prepares itself for positive market response and long-term growth by leveraging the personalities and credibility of goodwill messengers.

What’s in the Intellectual Property Portfolio of NEW YORK TIMES?

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On August 26, 1896, New York State law allowed for the incorporation of New York Times. There are 751 institutional shareholders and owners of it. Together, these organizations own 162,004,790 shares. The largest shareholders are Jackson Square Partners, LLC; IJH – iShares Core S&P Mid-Cap ETF; Vanguard Group Inc.; BlackRock Inc.; Farallon Capital Management Llc; Stockbridge Partners LLC; ValueAct Holdings, L.P.; T. Rowe Price Investment Management, Inc.; Wellington Management Group Llp; and Darsana Capital Partners LP.

New York Times is a global media organization that focuses on creating, collecting and distributing high-quality news and information that helps audience understand and engage with the world, and this mission has contributed to its success.

The New York Times’ intellectual property (IP) portfolio analysis reveals a strategic emphasis on safeguarding its assets for sustained value and competitive advantage. The company acknowledges the critical role of intellectual property protection in preserving the value of its brands, content, services, and technology. This recognition reflects a proactive approach to addressing the potential erosion of asset value through IP elopement.

Intellectual property portfolio philosophy of New York Times

  1. If we lose intellectual property protection, our assets may lose value (value elopement)
  2. Our business depends on our intellectual property, including our valuable brands, content, services and internally developed technology (continuous value creation and capturing depends on protection of IPs)
  3. Our proprietary trademarks and other intellectual property rights are important to our continued success and our competitive position (profitability and superior competitive positioning)
  4. We cannot be certain that the steps we have taken to protect our proprietary rights will prevent any misappropriation or confusion among consumers and merchants, or unauthorized use of these rights (external risks that couldn’t be contained)
  5. As our business and the risk of misappropriation of our intellectual property rights have become more global in scope, we may not be able to protect our proprietary rights in a cost-effective manner in a multitude of jurisdictions with varying laws (technological advancement and geographical differences in IPs protection)

The articulated philosophy underscores the centrality of intellectual property to the core business model. The acknowledgment that continuous value creation and capturing hinge on the protection of IPs reflects a keen awareness of the inseparable link between proprietary rights and business success. The emphasis on proprietary trademarks and intellectual property rights as crucial elements for sustained profitability and superior competitive positioning aligns with the contemporary challenges of the media industry.

However, the candid admission that the steps taken to protect proprietary rights may not entirely prevent misappropriation or confusion indicates a realistic awareness of external risks. In an evolving global landscape, the acknowledgment that the risk of misappropriation has become more global in scope highlights the challenges posed by technological advancements and the need to navigate diverse IP protection landscapes.

Examining the company’s actual IP portfolio, the New York Times has strategically leveraged patents for its mobile apps, such as the New York Times app and the New York Times Games app. These developments demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the reader experience and expanding the subscriber base through technology-driven initiatives. The creation of The Times iPhone app specifically targeting iPhone users reflects a targeted approach to technological transformation and capturing value from a specific demographic.

In terms of trademarks, the Masthead serves as a strategic asset, acting as both the title of the newspaper and a brand logo. The interchangeability of the Masthead design as a logo showcases a consistent and recognizable visual identity. The emphasis on goodwill as a valuable asset, earned through credibility and positive market positioning, reflects an understanding of the intangible but impactful nature of reader perception.

Our analyst notes that company’s intellectual property portfolio analysis suggests a thoughtful integration of legal protection, technological innovation, and brand strategy. While the company is cognizant of global challenges and external risks, its proactive measures and strategic focus on key patents and trademarks position it well to navigate the dynamic landscape of intellectual property in the media industry.

NEAR Protocol to Reach $4 in 2024, Altcoin Sherpa Predicts Avalanche Price – Everlodge to Become a Major Player in the Real Estate Sector

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NEAR Protocol (NEAR) saw a rapid upswing in value, and this has resulted in it gaining the attention of traders. But its not the only crypto to pick up attention, as Avalanche (AVAX) caught the appeal of major crypto analyst Altcoin Sherpa who is bullish on its future.

Alongside this, Everlodge (ELDG) is also making waves, it can disrupt the real estate market and make it accessible to anyone. We will go over each one to see which is the best cryptocurrency to buy.

NEAR Protocol (NEAR) to Move past $4 in 2024

NEAR Protocol (NEA) is a blockchain platform for dApps that was originally designed to be quick, scalable and user-friendly. NEAR Protocol utilizes Nightshade, a sharding method which splits the blockchain into chunks in order to achieve high throughput while maintaining low fees.

During the past week, the NEAR Protocol crypto traded between $2.09 and $3.71. The total upswing for NEAR was 92% in the past 30 days, and in the last year, its up 162%. According to the NEAR Protocol price prediction, it can reach $4.13.

Everlodge (ELDG) Primed to Become a Major Player in the Real Estate Sector in 2024

Everlodge (ELDG) is an upcoming real estate marketplace that can change how traders access the real estate market by making it far more affordable and solving key issues. These include the lack of liquidity, and lack of accessibility and transparency. The project is picking up significant attention with its blockchain ICO.

 

The industry has lacked liquidity as most properties cost millions of dollars in upfront capital, making them out of reach for a majority of people. Everlodge will solve this by making each property accessible for just $100.

This works by having them minted as NFTs, and afterwards, they will get fractionalized into smaller pieces. Each piece is worth just $100, and can be resold in the future.

The transparency issue is resolved with smart contracts. The metadata of the smart contract will store all of the important details, like title deeds or other ownership details. These aspects make it the best cryptocurrency to buy.

Avalanche (AVAX) to Reach $60 According to Altcoin Sherpa

Avalanche (AVAX) is a Layer-1 blockchain that aims to overcome the blockchain trilemma. It has the objective of being scalable, decentralized and secure all at the same time. The Avalanche price exhibited bullish features recently and can reach higher levels. It has displayed good performance in the previous week, month  and even year.

During the past 30 days, Avalanche is up by 121%. During the past week, it moved up from $37.42 to $48.30. According to the latest analysis by Altcoin Sherpa, who shared the data through a post on X (Twitter), the Avalanche price prediction puts it at $55 to $60.

Summary

NEAR Protocol is bullish, and Avalanche is projected to grow according to Altcoin Sherpa. Yet, a lot of attention is given to Everlodge. Throughout its blockchain ICO, the project has reached Stage 8, where it trades at $0.027. At launch, analysts project an upswing of 2,500% following its listing on major Tier-1 exchanges.

Visit Everlodge

2023: Reflecting on a Year of Milestones, Challenges and Looking Ahead

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Today is December 30, 2023, and there is approximately 48 hours left in the year. It’s time for me to reflect on the year as it draws to a close. While I understand that the excitement often associated with transitioning from one year to another is largely psychological, and that January 1, 2024, holds no more inherent significance than December 4, 2023, I still find value in looking back and retrospecting on the year that’s nearing its end on the Gregorian calendar.

Sincerely, it’s been an incredible year of growth, achievement, and significant milestones, notwithstanding its array of challenges—financial, career-related, and in life in general. Nonetheless, I am grateful to the One in whose hands my soul rests, as this year has marked several crucial milestones in my career and life.

It was the year I completed a decade as a university lecturer in the academic realm—a journey defined by dedication, passion, and continual learning. Commemorating this milestone fills me with gratitude for the myriad of minds intertwined with mine on this journey. Reflecting, I find immense fulfillment in the career path I’ve carved as an academic, shaping lives and nurturing talents. I see a niche I’ve crafted for myself, and I’m thankful for choosing to express my expertise through teaching, research, and community service.

Beyond the lecture halls, 2023 unfolded new chapters. A six-month expedition outside academia with Opolo Global Innovation, fostering innovation and digital skills across diverse landscapes. It was an enriching period bridging academia and industry, nurturing creativity, and cultivating groundbreaking ideas. This journey validated some of my previously held views on entrepreneurship and empowerment for future generations. It was also a phase of continual learning, re-learning, and unlearning. Whether at the Osogbo campus of Osun State University, the picturesque campus of OAU Ife, the windy, hilly roads of Otan Ayegbaju, or the agrarian community of Ifetedo, I contributed to managing stakeholders, fostering innovation, and facilitating conversations that deepened the digital economy.

The year also marked the completion of a deliberate five-year career roadmap—a strategic voyage navigated with purpose and online visibility, crafting a digital footprint echoing aspirations and endeavors. A journey that commenced in 2018 and concluded in 2023. At its inception, it seemed an insurmountable task. Reflecting on the end of this personal 5-year calendar, I am nothing but grateful to my Creator, whose silent guidance steered me toward good and shielded me from harm. I’ve checked all the boxes in the 5-year targets, moving now onto another 5-year journey.

In 2023, a collaborative highlight emerged in initiating the inaugural LinkedIn Local programme in Osogbo—a platform fostering connections, conversations, and community growth, close to my heart. Around 2019 or thereabouts, recognizing the benefits of maintaining a presence on LinkedIn, I felt the need to bring this conversation to my locality. However, I couldn’t materialize that dream until I embraced the youthful energy and vibrancy of Lukman Adeoti, who eventually brought us LinkedIn Local Osogbo 2023. I’m proud of what he and his team are doing to pave the way for a community-driven beneficial digital economy. I promise more support in 2024.

Personal and academic triumph intertwined in 2023 with the culmination of my Ph.D. journey—a result of years of dedication, research, and unwavering perseverance. The final graduation, a testament to resilience and scholarly pursuit, occurred in November 2023.

Yet, the year didn’t conclude without an additional benefit—leading a team to secure the NASFAT grant at Fountain University. It was a collective victory—a testament to collaborative efforts, shared visions, and the power of teamwork.

As I reflect on 2023, it’s a year replete with diverse experiences, each thread contributing to the vibrant fabric of growth, impact, and meaningful connections. Here’s to embracing the lessons learned, cherishing the victories, and eagerly anticipating the untold narratives of the coming chapters. Cheers to the year that was, and to the unwritten stories waiting to unfold in the years ahead.

I express gratitude to the team of supporters who ensured the year was fruitful for me. Special thanks to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, for His mercies, grace, and protection. I also extend gratitude to my friend and business partner, Mutiu Iyanda, for being the driving force behind the 2018 calendar. I’m pleased to see how we’ve collectively progressed in our individual and collective lives.

To my mentors—Prof Ayo Ojebode, Dr. Emmanuel Mogaji, Dr. Olusegun Fariudeen Liadi, Prof. Nnamdi Madichie, Prof. Nduibisi Ekekwe, Prof. Saheed Aderinto, Dr. Segun Aina, and others, young and old, whose guidance continues to illuminate my path, I say a big thank you. To the Fountain University community, starting from my Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim, the Registrar, Mr. Sheriff Adenekan, my HOD, Dr. Azeez Olusegun Sanni, Ridwa Kolawole, Akeem Azeez, Dr. Adegbenga Raheem Akintunde, and others, may the Good Lord preserve our lives beyond 2024. Finally, to all the individuals I worked with at Opolo Global—Femi Kalejaiye, Deji Ajani, Femi Ajayi, Dr. Shukurat Bello, Michael Oyalana, Michael Ewuola, Kehinde Ogunmiloro, Ogunsakin, and others, I extend a heartfelt thank you. I look forward to witnessing all of you chasing your dreams in 2024.

#ReflectingOn2023 #Milestones #JourneyContinues