5 Affordable Vacation Destinations You Can Visit This Summer!

Jun 7, 2022

Although increased dollar rates and rising inflation are making it difficult for families to plan a vacation this year, there are still a few budget destinations you could consider if you’re planning a trip with your loved one. Here’s a list of 5 destinations you can choose from:

1. Thailand

Despite being one of the favorite tourist destinations, it is still one of the most affordable summer getaway spot with a low currency exchange rate (5.77 PKR/THB) and a lot to offer to a tourist. The tropical beaches of the Pattaya Island offering scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities provide a much-needed break from the scorching monsoon heat in Pakistan. A weeklong trip would be enough to cover the main tourist attractions such as the popular floating market, the grand palace, and the Khao Yai National Park. Transportation and meals would not be much of a burden on the pocket, costing around 20 THB for a cab and 100 THB for a meal. Visa fees would be about 5000 PKR and usually comes within a week. A round trip ticket would cost around 100,000 PKR due to the peak season.

Egypt

Anyone with a little appreciation for architecture and culture would have a wondrous experience in the land of Egypt, home to one of the wonders of the world; the pyramids. The mesmerizing Sharm-El-Sheikh resorts and a cruise of the river Nile are one of the many attractions that Egypt has to offer. Personal affordable huts around the breathtaking oasis provide a complete experience of the city. With the currency being merely at 1EGP/11 PKR, food, and transportation cost around 70-100 EGP per meal are quite affordable. A return ticket would be around 100,000 PKR with low visa fee of 4500 PKR.

Maldives

Also known as “Heaven on Earth”, Maldives is a place not to be missed. Although being a little more expensive than the others on the list, the crystal clear beaches of Male, the elegant SinaMale bridge, and numerous jet skiing and parasailing opportunities make it worth it. The land of Maldives promises every tourist a memorable experience and a sight one has probably never seen before. The hotels and resorts are a little more costly. However, the guesthouses provide a pocket-friendly package starting from about $60 per night with breakfast included. A round trip costs around 125,000 PKR with no worry of visa as Visa is on arrival.

4.Turkey

The country that gives us the good of both worlds, provides everything a tourist wants. The Asian side offers a surreal landscape with immense greenery and natural beauty while the European side includes all the venturesome theme parks and grand shopping malls. The world-famous spice bazaar is a world of its own with a variety of spices and decoration pieces along with a great opportunity to bargain. The historic museum of Hagia Sophia and the breathtaking hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia are one to die for. Along with that, the local food is a kind one can never forget. Hotels are offering cheap rates starting for as low as 13,000 PKR per night and a visa comes in a week. A round-trip ticket would cost around 125,000 PKR.

5. Morroco

Morocco has immense cultural and architectural knowledge to offer with an exciting nightlife. Cities such as Tangier and Casablanca offer some of the best beaches and lagoons and are fairly affordable due to the cheap currency rate (1MAD/21 PKR). The setting sunset covering the unique city of Tangier is a sight not to be missed. With tourist spots such as the Hercules caves and mesmerizing gardens of Jardin Majorelle, one can never get enough of the place. Airbnb and hut sharing are cheap options for accommodation. A round trip ticket would be for around 200,000PKR.

Have more to add to this list? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

LMC Announces A Limited Time Offer On Peugeot 2008 Active

Dr. Rida Qamar

Jun 7, 2022

Lucky Motor Company (LMC) teamed up with French automaker Peugeot. A part of Stellantis Group, to launch a range of vehicles in Pakistan.

LMC began rolling off the Peugeot 2008 crossover in December 2021. In the same facility in Karachi, it assembles other Kia cars locally. The vehicle was launched in January & was open for booking with two variants available Active and Allure, priced at PKR 52.5 lac and PKR 58.5 lac, respectively. The Peugeot 2008 was displayed at 8 Peugeot 3S dealerships in 6 cities across Pakistan.

The difference between the two variants is the presence of 6 airbags in Allure while Active has 4. There is a chrome front grille in Allure vs a gloss grille in Active. Allure contains a 10-inch 3D cluster compared to the 10-inch Quartz instrument cluster in Active.

TEP seats are present with contrasting stitching in Allure vs fabric seats in Active. Meanwhile, the panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing wipers and cruise control fingertip steering control are all present in Allure but are not available in the Active variant.

LMC Announces Discount

In recent news, LMC has announced a limited-time discount offer on Peugeot 2008 Active. The offer includes a markdown of Rs. 251,000 on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the subcompact SUV.

The Response For Peugeot!

LMC enjoyed massive success with the launch of KIA Sportage back in 2019, the same was intended for Peugeot 2008. While there can be multiple reasons behind the lack of public interest in the vehicle. Some of these factors can include a significantly high price point.

Meanwhile, Peugeot 2008 got the title of ‘Car of the Year’ for 2020 by a jury of 60 automotive professionals and journalists from 23 European nations. The panel praised the company’s engine lineup, which includes electric, gasoline, and diesel engines, giving consumers “the power of choice.”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Unilever Pakistan Recycles Plastic Waste Equal To Half Of Plastic Used In Local Operations

Web Desk

Jun 6, 2022

PRESS RELEASE – Unilever Pakistan has collected and recycled plastic waste equivalent to half (50%) of the plastic used in its operations annually. This has been achieved in a period of two years, as part of the ambition of becoming 100% plastic neutral by 2025.

Last year, Unilever Pakistan pledged to recover, recycle and reuse 100% of the plastic generated through its operations by 2025. As part of this effort, the company partnered with stakeholders from the industry, government, and the development sector to eradicate plastic waste and invest in initiatives to reuse and repurpose plastic.

Amir Paracha, Chairman & CEO, Unilever Pakistan said on the occasion, “Protecting the world from the impact of climate change needs all of us to work collaboratively. Reducing the plastic footprint is just one aspect of this cause and one organization alone cannot turn the tide. We must work together to find innovative ways to amplify the impact of positive climate actions to create a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous world for everyone.”

The announcement was made as part of celebrations of World Environment Day 2022, where Unilever Pakistan announced the results of a recent partnership, titled ‘Dastan-e-Plastic’ with ISP Environmental Solutions for the collection of plastic waste in Lahore. The effort is part of a pilot project, collecting plastic waste from 5,440 households in Lahore. The project is expected to become self-sustaining by the end of 2022, and provides sustainable employment for 22 scavengers and 21 informal recyclers (kabaris).

On the day, Unilever Pakistan also signed an MoU with Sharmeen Polymers to use recycled plastic in the packaging material developed for Unilever products. The Research and Development team at Unilever Pakistan and Sharmeen Polymers are collaborating to develop Pakistan’s first shampoo bottle, using locally sourced recycled plastic. Unilever Pakistan is also a founding member of Pakistan’s first packaging alliance CoRe (Collect & Recycle), working to responsibly produce and recycle consumer plastic.

Love Cherries? 8 Impressive Benefits You Didn’t Know About

Dr. Rida Qamar

Jun 6, 2022

Everybody enjoys indulging in juicy red cherries during the summer season. This vibrant red fruit is an excellent blend of sweet flavors with a tingle of sourness and adds the perfect pop of color to your desserts.

Cherries can be eaten raw or can also be used in a variety of recipes such as cakes, tarts, pies, and cheesecakes. They are a wonderful topping for a bowl of yogurt or your breakfast cereal. But did you know that this delicious fruit has numerous good qualities for your health? Dubbed as one of the healthiest superfoods, cherries have the highest medicinal value because they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Here are eight reasons why this tiny fruit is a nutritional all-star.

1. Antioxidant Properties

Cherries are a potent source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These cellular bodyguards slow down ageing and ward off chronic illnesses including heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and obesity.

2. Prevents Insomnia

According to a 2013 study, cherries are a rich, natural source of melatonin, a neurotransmitter that influences sleep and mood. Melatonin can be helpful for those who have insomnia, as it is the chemical that induces sleepiness.

3. Protection Against Diabetes

The anti-inflammatory effect of cherries helps keep your body healthy. Meanwhile, cherries rank lower than many fruits on the glycemic index. They don’t trigger spikes and crashes in your blood sugar and insulin levels. This makes them both protective against diabetes and essential for managing the condition if you already have it.

4. Energy Booster

Cherries are believed to be one of the most energy-boosting fruits. They can help build blood cells that automatically ease circulation and boost energy levels. If you don’t have any medical condition, you can add half a cup of cherries to your daily diet.

5. Keeps Cholesterol In Check

Research has shown that drinking tart cherry juice can help lower total cholesterol, including the “bad” type, known as LDL. That’s key because every 1% reduction in cholesterol lowers the risk of heart disease by 2%. And a high LDL is particularly problematic in relation to heart attack risk.

6. Strengthen Hair

Are you struggling with your dull and lifeless locks? Cherries contain Vitamin B and Vitamin C, which prevent hair damage and breakage and keep the scalp hydrated. Vitamin C also imparts a natural glow to your skin.

7. Prevents Hypertension

Cherries contain a good amount of potassium, and thus, help in removing excess sodium content from the body and balance the amount of both potassium and sodium, which automatically helps in maintaining your blood pressure levels.

8. Prevents Heart Diseases

The antioxidants in cherries called anthocyanins help reduce harmful cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure and fight free radicals that may cause inflammation. This reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Here’s Why This NFT Collection Was Made With Real Cancer Cells

Lyza Rashid

Jun 6, 2022

nfts cancer cells — Image Source: Youtube

NFTs have been the front and center of many marketing strategies as of late. They have been used and modified to create powerful campaigns for a long but nothing comes close to what we’re about to show you. NFTs are being used now to get funding for cancer treatment and it’s being done while actually using cancer cells. Don’t believe us? Keep reading.

The New Take on NFTs

A collaboration between the Institute of Oncology in Gliwice, Ogilvy, the Alivia Cancer Foundation, and Polish artist Paweł Swanski, ‘Buy My Cancer’ is making waves. This collaboration is being called “the first NFT series designed to save lives.” It is also revolutionary because it’s an entirely new type of medical funding model.

What Does It Do?

The project takes microscopic images of real, live cancer cells, and uses them in such a way that beautiful artworks are made. These artworks are then sold as NFTs. The photos — the first of which were snapped by Tomasz Cichoń́, Ph.D., and Ryszard Smolarczyk, Ph.D. in March — were taken via a confocal microscope. These photos are cells of cancer patients.

Pawel Swanski — a Warsaw-based artist and designer known for his large-format murals featuring undulating, complex linework — then came in. He transformed the photographs into paintings. These paintings are mind-blowing because they depict an ivy-like design suffocating cancer cells. Three paintings have been made and turned into NFTs.

What Is This For?

Funds made from sales of the NFTs will be donated to the Alivia Cancer Foundation. These funds will help finance a pricey cancer therapy known as CAR-T. This is cutting-edge and highly effective immunotherapy that is relatively new. In essence, CAR-T therapy genetically modifies a patient’s existing lymphocytes, or immune cells, enabling these cells to recognize and fight off cancer cells within the body. However, the issue is that it is incredibly expensive and most cancer patients do not have the funds for them.

The therapy costs around $400,000 per patient and it’s not always covered by insurance. The first patient whose cells were photographed for the series is Jakub Burnos who is a student at the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow, Poland. Burnos suffers from a very rare and aggressive form of lymphoma.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Is You Tube A Viable Option For Content Creators?

Usman Kashmirwala

Jun 6, 2022

Is You Tube A Viable Option For Content Creators? — Image Source: Blog Linkem

The 20^th Century has witnessed the birth of many useful virtual platforms which have provided numerous facilities to the rapidly growing tech-oriented population and served as a mean of income for many new and creative content creators. YouTube has been one of the most largest and popular platforms by making everything and anything literally a click away. It has been a mean of providing a huge platform to many content creators and has generated millions in revenue virtually. However, the question arises that with the rapidly developing tech world, is it the best long-term option for content creators and are they happy with the platform?

In reality, there are many streamers and content creators who are not too happy with YouTube as a mean of income and content delivery due to many concerning reasons. Firstly, a number of YouTube channels such as “Toy Freaks” and “Family of Five” with millions of subscribers have noticed that bans on accounts are pervasive with not much check and balance hence, many have lost their subscribers and earnings due to these bans and all the years of hard work and creativity have gone down the drain.

Furthermore, accounts are blocked or banned due to a sudden change in YouTube’s policy leaving YouTubers worried about the longevity of the platform. Getting these accounts back is a hassle that every YouTuber dreads going through. In addition, there isn’t a freedom of opinion as viewers report content which they disagree with; strangling the income and exposure a Youtuber expects hence leaving no aspiration for new content creators.

To tackle this, a personal website of a content creator is recommended by many who have gone through this muddle which allows for much more freedom in content creation and a way of earning a secure income. Entities such as “pinepagecom” facilitate creators with establishing their own websites and advertising them while providing new business-making opportunities.

Creators can customize their own website to suit their subject and not worry about unnecessary penalties. More streams of income can also be generated by integrating with other brands and making their website available on all domains. YouTubers can also advertise on their website keeping every penny to themselves and explore a membership option for exclusive content available for subscribers who pay a premium price.

Although the idea is relatively new and will take a few years to be a potential threat to YouTube’s survival, YouTubers like Linus Tech and many more who have invested in their own website are working to spread the concept since they believe people don’t mind paying some extra dollars to see their favorite YouTuber releasing exclusive content.

Although the exposure gained on YouTube has no match but these issues faced by many make us wonder if it really is a long-term option for content creators.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

WhatsApp Maybe Introducing An Exciting Feature For Deleted Messages

Lyza Rashid

Jun 6, 2022

feature deleted messages — Image Source: Anadolu Agency

WhatsApp has the most interesting and exciting news in store for its users. The new update is in fact bringing 12 new features that may be life-changing because let’s be real, WhatsApp is our life at this point. Here’s everything you’re going to be able to do soon:

Edit Your Messages

You can now edit your messages on WhatsApp (soon!) The app is working on bringing the ability to edit text messages in one of the future updates. This news is making texters on WhatsApp feel like their prayers have been heard. How many times would you wish to change what you had written? One too many times.

Now that this may finally be our reality, it’s time to go crazy with the texts. The app is still working out the kinks in the feature but we’re beyond excited.

You Can Finally Share Big Files

One of the new features in the latest update is that you can finally share files bigger than 2GB in WhatsApp chats. This will make it easier to use WhatsApp for more business-related purposes too as you now don’t have to move between another app and this one to share important files.

Sift Through Unread Chats

You can now also sift through unread chats. WhatsApp has released a new unread chat filter on the WhatsApp Desktop beta. This will make it easier for you to search for unread chat threads. So if you’ve been ignoring people but still need something from their chat window, you got it.

Undo-ing A Deleted Message

This has to be one of the best ones. This is also the kind of feature you may have been waiting for. Have you deleted a message for you by mistake? If yes, don’t worry about doing it now because WhatsApp is working on a new feature that lets users undo message deletion. How simple will life be?

Extra Layer of Security

WhatsApp is already one of the most secure apps out there. This is because it has double encryption and also allows you to lock the app via fingerprint or face ID. However, it is now increasing its security. A double verification code is also coming.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

15 Oscar-Winning Movies You Should Watch this Summer

Laiba Omer

Jun 6, 2022

Hollywood has some talented directors, including Scorsese, Hitchcock, Spielberg, and many others. Here is a list of most celebrated Oscar-Winning movies you must watch by these masterminds.

The list includes 15 Oscar-Winning films that have different genres and have been released in the previous decades.

1. The Godfather
  
  Image Source/ABC News
  
  Director: Francis Ford Coppola
  Release Date: March 14, 1972
  
  The aging patriarch of an organized crime dynasty transfers control of his clandestine empire to his reluctant son.
2. Parasite
  Image Source/ Medium
  
  Director: Bong Joon-ho
  Release Date: May 30, 2019
  
  Greed and class discrimination threatens the newly formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the impoverished Kim clan.
3. Argo
  Image Source/ NPR
  
  Director: Ben Affleck
  Release Date: October 4, 2012
  
  An exfiltration specialist masquerades as a Hollywood producer to rescue six Americans who are held captive in Tehran during the US hostage crisis in Iran.
  
  The film casts one of the best actors in Hollywood, Bryan Cranston. It is available on Netflix.
4. Slumdog Millionaire
  Image Source/ Reverse Shot
  
  Director: Danny Boyle
  Release Date: March 13, 2009
  
  A teenager from the slums of Mumbai becomes a contestant on the show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati?’ When interrogated under suspicion of cheating, he revisits his past, revealing how he had all the answers.
  One of the Extraordinary films on the list!
5. The Departed
  
  image Source/ The Film Experience
  
  Director: Martin Scorsese
  Release Date: September 26, 2006
  
  An undercover agent and a spy always try to counter-attack each other to save themselves from being exposed in front of the authorities.
6. Schindler’s List
  Image Source/ Dallas Observer
  
  Director: Steven Spielberg (Hands down the best director!)
  Release Date: November 30, 1993
  
  A German industrialist and member of the Nazi party tries to save his Jewish employees after witnessing the persecution of Jews in Poland.
7. Spotlight
  Image Source/The Indian Express
  
  Director: Tom McCarthy
  Release Date: January 7, 2016
  
  Martin Baron pushes four journalists named Michael, Walter, Sacha, and Matt to pursue a story about the child molestation charges against the local church.
8. Annie Hall
  Image Source/Indie Wire
  
  Director: Woody Allen
  Release Date: April 20, 1977
  
  A divorced Jewish comedian reflects on his relationship with ex-lover Annie Hall, an aspiring nightclub singer. The marriage ended abruptly, just like his previous marriages.
  
  A light film to start with.
9. Birdman
  Image Source/ Britannica
  
  Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu
  Release Date: October 17, 2014
  
  A fading cinema superhero plans to resurrect his career with a passionate Broadway production. However, during rehearsals, his co-star is injured, forcing him to hire a new actor.
10. The Silence of the Lambs
  Image Source/ The Script Lab
  
  Director: Jonathan Demme
  Release Date: February 14, 1991
  
  An FBI agent seeks help from Hannibal Lecter, a psychopathic serial killer, and former psychiatrist, to apprehend another serial killer who has been claiming female victims.
  
  Get ready for the thriller to blow your mind completely.
11. American Beauty
  Image Source/ IMDb
  
  Director: Sam Mendes
  Release Date: September 8, 1999
  
  Parental Guidance advised, available on Netflix.
  
  Lester’s life seems perfect, having a respectable job and a family, but inside, he is slowly slipping into depression. Struggling with life, he gets infatuated with his daughter’s friend, Angela.
12. Rebecca
  Image Source/ YouTube
  
  Director: Daphne du Maurier
  Release Date: August 1938
  
  An unnamed young woman who foolishly marries a wealthy widower discovers that he and his house are haunted by the memory of his late first wife, Rebecca.
13. GoodFellas
  Image Source/ The New Yorker
  
  Director: Martin Scorsese
  Release Date: September 12, 1990
  
  Available on Netflix.
  
  Henry Hill, with his friends Jimmy and Tommy, begins the climb from being a petty criminal to a gangster in New York.
14. The Shape of Water
  Image Source/Medium
  
  Director: Guillermo del Toro
  Release Date: January 18, 2018
  
  A lonely janitor stumbles upon an amphibious creature that is held captive in a secret research facility. She then develops a unique relationship with the beast.
15. Arrival
  Image Source/ Roger Abert
  
  Director: Denis Villeneuve
  Release Date: September 2, 2016
  
  A linguistics expert, along with her team, interprets the language of aliens who’ve come to earth in a mysterious spaceship.
  
  Have any Oscar-Winning favorites? Let us know in the comment section below. For more news and updates, stay tuned to Brandsynario.

8 Refreshing Lemonade Mocktails To Make At Home This Summer

Dr. Rida Qamar

Jun 6, 2022

Is there anything better than a weekend full of sunshine, BBQs and warm weather? No. There is not. That’s why we’re kicking off the summer with these lemonade mocktails, and it’s your choice if you want to turn it into a mocktail party!

Today’s recipes are simple and refreshing. This easy drink will be shared in various flavours, perfect to set up an entire table. Add a touch of salt or mint, and it’ll be like you’re on vacation on a tropical island. One can dream, right?

1. Mint Lemonade

This easy to make yet delicious lemonade recipe is the answer to all your needs this summer. Make a quick serving to keep you fresh all day long, or serve it to your guests without spending time in the kitchen.

2. Korean Lemonade

This authentic Korean mocktail recipe will hit you right in your ‘Seoul’. Raise your hand if you got the reference! The lemon puree will work as a great mixture to fix a glass for someone in a hurry.

3. The Virgin Mocktail

Fancy yourself some sprite? Try this mocktail mix with some lemon, mint and lots of white soda to add the perfect touch of tantalising yet sweetness.

4. Lychee Mocktail

A drink of your dreams? This blend of lychee and lemons is a match made in heaven! If there is one recipe, you need to try from this listicle; it has to be this one. And since lychee is in season, no excuses shall be entertained.

5. Kuluki Lemonade

This easy to make quick mocktail isn’t only delicious and fun to make. The hint of green chilli can add the perfect level of spice to the drink

6. Curacao Lemonade

If cool coloured mocktails have always tempted you in a restaurant, then this is the perfect recipe for you. The curacao lemonade can be made at home with minimalist ingredients. Wow, your guests, the next time you host a dinner at your place with this aesthetically pleasing drink.

7. Fruit Lemonade

Try these lemonade mocktails with a twist. You can enjoy the flavour of fruits while keeping the tangy taste and texture of lime and lemons.

8. Homemade Squash Mocktail

This sugary mocktail with homemade squash syrup is the perfect dose of boost for those warm, humid summer afternoons. The best part is that you can keep it in your fridge for as long as possible.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Famous Pakistani Cricketers: Then & Now

Sidra Rizvi

Jun 4, 2022

There is nothing that unites Pakistanis quite like their love for cricket. This one sport has the power to keep traffic off roads, and see the crime rates drop drastically whenever it is being aired, especially if Pakistan is playing against archrival India.

And when the love of the game is so deeply enrooted in us all, it is needless to say, we hold our cricket players in the highest regard. Yes, recently we have been disappointed with the performances of our boys in green, but we have learned to forgive them. After all, everything else in our lives get clean bowled, once the match begins.

Since our cricket players are nothing short of celebrities, we decided to take a look at their lives and the transformations they have gone through over the years.

1) Wasim Akram

One of the most loved cricketers is Pakistan, Wasim Akram has always been popular with the ladies. The 49-year-old sportsman still looks his best and can be seen gracing social events with his gorgeous wife Shaniera in tow.

2) Waqar Younis

Former fast bowler Waqar Younis has been visited by the Middle Age fairy.

3) Umar Gul

It looks like Umar Gul finally found a good hair stylist. Now he needs to get his eyebrows done.

4) Shoaib Akhtar

We hardly ever got to see him on the field, so we don’t know how these changes happened, but Shoaib Akhtar now looks vastly different than when he started playing cricket.

5) Shahid Afridi

The only player to inspire countless memes after his signature pose, Shahid Afridi has a cult following. However, the hunk looked very different early on in his career. We for one love Lala as he is now.

6) Mohammad Sami

It could be the hair or a better quality sunblock, but Mohammad Sami is definitely looking better than when he debuted his career.

7) Muhammad Yousuf

Formerly known as Yousuf Youhana, Muhammad Yousuf went through a drastic change. Not only did he accept Islam, he now also sports a beard.

8) Mohammad Amir

The picture below reminds us of an ad for your average fairness cream. Whatever his secret might be, we are really happy with Mohammad Amir’s new look.

9) Mushtaq Ahmed

We have seen a lot of our player become religious and completely transform their look. Mushtaq Ahmed is one such example.

10) Saqlain Mushtaq

Another player to have crossed over to the religious side, Saqlain Mushtaq is barely recognizable now. We remember him as the clean shaved toothy-grinned player. Now however, he’s the next door neighbor telling you to stop playing at Magrib.

11) Inzamam-ul-Haq

Inzamam-ul-Haq was perhaps the most scrutinized during his career. The way he talked, especially his inability to speak English. However nobody could have guessed he would have changed this much.

12) Imran Khan

Ruling over the hearts of millions, Imran Khan has always had his faithful followers. The former cricketer turned politician even though in his sixties is showing no signs of slowing down.

13) Ahmed Shehzad

We are all aware of Ahmed Shehzad’s love of taking selfies. So we understand his need of constantly changing his look to see which is best. He is currently sporting some facial hair which we don’t mind at all.

Economic Pinch And Growing Telecom Woes

Web Desk

Jun 3, 2022

The current economic crunch has added to the woes of the people and has worsened the prevailing challenges in many industries; especially the telecom industry. While regulatory issues regarding taxation, spectrum allocation and prices of license renewal have continued to hamper the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Pakistan, what gets little attention from local policymakers is the resulting decrease in profits and investment; which is particularly true for MNOs that have foreign ownership.

When mobile broadband services were launched eight years ago, the five MNOs that had heavily invested in 3G and 4G services were confident in winning back the investment by an increased earning; however, most telecoms could not make the profits they were initially expecting and contrary to their estimates had started to lose the average revenue per user (ARPU).

Recently, local telecom players have had to shift their focus to growing subscribers rather than investing in expanding the telecom infrastructure of the country. As ARPU for most telecoms continues to reduce, despite the enhanced 4G network coverage, organic growth has become harder to achieve. In such circumstances, we have already seen one major merger with rumours of another telecom looking to exit the market, in contrast, smaller telecoms such as Ufone (that got their 4G license only one year ago) have to re-strategise to make sustainable growth in the industry.

Starting with the macroeconomic crisis of 2018-19 and recently the Covid pandemic, Pakistani telecoms have made some incredible efforts to keep citizens connected during these challenging times; despite all the changing demand patterns and amplified data demand. Also, the quality of service issues has become more pronounced. While tackling these problems remains a priority for all telecoms; the exacerbated macroeconomic situation leaves no respite in sight.

What comes as a major area of concern for Pakistan is that out of the 4 large telecom players in the country. Three of them have HQs based in foreign countries and so any organic revenue gained has been minimalistic due to the sharp depreciation in Pakistan’s currency, dealing a severe blow to foreign direct investment (FDI) in the telecom ecosystem as well as the growth for the telecoms in Pakistan. During such times, the decision to buy spectrum, renew licenses and provide bandwidth, equipment and components becomes extremely expensive for local telecoms, as the prices for all these allocations are placed in U.S Dollars, with little margin for profit for the MNOs.

Considering that the top-three MNOs all refrained from participating in last year’s spectrum auction (held in September) due to these issues highlighted above, the new government is faced with the opportunity to respond constructively and address the telecom industry’s main concerns.

Moving forward, it will be essential for the government to provide some much-needed respite to the local telecoms and bring down taxes and appreciate that it is the MNOs and their investment in local telecom infrastructure that has played an instrumental role in the development of the digital economy of Pakistan, especially during the demanding days of the pandemic. As the government is faced with difficult decisions, it would be in the country’s best interest to trust the local telecoms with building a more digitally inclusive Pakistan and understand that economic stability can be realised through ensuring seamless connectivity and providing greater accessibility to not just the people, but the telecom industry.

Google Search Introduces A New Experience To Offer Helpline Support During Mental Health Crises

Web Desk

Jun 3, 2022

Karachi, Pakistan, June 2, 2022 – Today, Google launched a suicide hotline onebox for Pakistan. This feature enables users to connect quickly with a suicide helpline at the top of the Search results page. Anyone in Pakistan searching for suicide-related queries such as “suicide support”, “how can I commit suicide” will now be shown the ‘Umang Pakistan’ helpline.

Recognized by the WHO, Umang is a mental health helpline that offers support to vulnerable Pakistanis ideating or planning suicide.

This partnership between Umang and Google aims to help tackle the rising issue of suicides in Pakistan. According to WHO estimates, there are around 130k to 270k cases of attempted suicide in Pakistan each year. Meanwhile, Search interest in mental health issues has been on the rise. Topics such as “anxiety”, “depression” and “suicide” all peaked in the 2020-21 period in the country, according to Google Trends.

Farhan Qureshi, Regional Director, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, at Google shared “As we see from Trends, Pakistanis are looking for answers about their mental health. We understand time is of the essence when searching for help, especially for those who may be facing suicidal thoughts. We hope that this feature aids vulnerable users in finding help in times of need”

Kinza Naeem, Founder & CEO Umang Pakistan also shared ”Mental health is the biggest unaddressed problem of our era, specially at a place like Pakistan where more than 40% of the population is suffering from some degree of mental health issues. We are utterly grateful to google for this timely partnership. I am certain that together we will be able to reach out to the maximum number of people in dire need of mental health support and break the taboo around it nationwide.”

This Search update will be available on both desktop and mobile (Android/iOS).

Here’s How Brands Can Encourage More Sustainable Behavior

Lyza Rashid

Jun 3, 2022

brands encourage sustainable behaviour — Image Source: Cosmetics Design Europe

Global warming is definitely showing itself to us this summer season as temperatures soar beyond the range of that which is bearable. In all of this, we must come together as a community to devise ways of being more sustainable so the damage is mitigated. One important way is how to drive sustainability in the corporate sector. Understanding how brands can be more sustainable is important, here’s how it begins:

Educate Everyone

Sustainability is not anybody’s second skin or instinctive knowledge. It’s best not to discount the learning experience for everyone working in the brand and hold workshops or information sessions to learn about it. When everybody learns together and comes equally strong, more ideas can form.

Incentivize Sustainability

Many companies have devised a very effective strategy to bring sustainability into the mainstream. This strategy is that a sustainable goal is set and whoever tries to or is actually successful in meeting that goal gets rewarded a bonus. By incentivizing sustainability, everyone is encouraged to play a role in it.

Perform Locally

A lot of waste and harmful chemicals come into the process when brands continuously strive to make it big. Making it big is measured by how much are they operating beyond the local border. However, if a brand is trying to encourage sustainable behavior, it’s best to look close. This can reduce the need for a lot of harmful processes!

Enforce Company-Wide Rules

Top-down or bottom-up is not the way to go. This is a process that everyone must partake in equally. In this case, enforcing company-wide rules can encourage sustainable behavior. For instance, banning single-use plastics all around the company is a good idea!

Educate The Customers

All the work does not have to be within. A lot of times, the change can also come from the other end which is the customers! Nike is one brand that educates its customers by informing them what goes on behind a pair of shoes. This would make the customers more understanding of increased prices (if they are) due to sustainable measures. They may even support it!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Did Stranger Things Season 4 Live Up To The Expectations?

Esha Azhar

Jun 3, 2022

strangerthings4 — Image Source: TechnoSports

The big day has arrived! The Hawkins, Indiana crew has reunited after a three-year sabbatical and one worldwide epidemic. Stranger Things Season 4 arrived with a bang, delivering audiences plenty of horror and suspense. It’s something the fans hadn’t seen in the previous three seasons, and to put it lightly, it left them surprised and not in a positive sense.

I have my own little analogy/review for how I felt about season 4. For me, it was like a long movie. Season 4 was the longest edition of the show’s history. It is five hours longer than previous seasons, yet the Duffer brothers (show’s directors and writers) were still unable to conclude the season, which is why Volume 2 will be released in July.

This season seems to lean more toward horror than suspense. Concepts from The Exorcist and Nightmare on Elm Street were used. The show evolved from a children’s thriller to an intense PG-rated one.

Another noticeable difference is the characters’ aging. Stranger Things Season 3 was released three years ago, yet according to the show, only six months have elapsed. The actors, on the other hand, appear significantly older. This astounded the audience since the youngsters (Lucas, Mike, Dustin, Will, Eleven, and Max) suddenly appear to be teens.

While the narrative of Season 4 is terrific and constantly keeps you on your toes, there are instances when it feels like too much is occurring at once. Four separate storylines are being told simultaneously, and while they are all well depicted, you may become confused at moments.

The Locations

This season features a number of locations. Everything happened in Hawkins in past seasons, however, this time problems exist in new regions. Joyce and Murray have travelled to Alaska in order to free Hopper from Russian custody. While the rest of the group is still in Hawkins, Mike, Will, and Johnathan are trapped in California. Eleven is also being experimented on at a faraway location.

It might be perplexing because all the characters aren’t in the same spot. You don’t know if everything is happening at the same moment. Usually, they begin with one tale but leave it at a cliffhanger to continue with the other stories. This leaves you confused because when they return to the first tale, it’s generally in the following episode.

Surprisingly, at the conclusion of episode 7, this all begins to make sense. All of the storylines merge into one. The hours of perplexity begin to make sense.

Is it, however, worthwhile? It was for me. I enjoyed the buildup, but I know many of the spectators did not. The programme might have easily stopped after season 3, but the creators opted to keep it running until season 5 to finish the tale.

Stranger Things Season 4 Vol 2

Season 4’s second volume will be released in July. We’ll see the characters reunite (hopefully) and decide whether season 4 is actually a binge-worthy programme.

What are your thoughts about Stranger Things season 4? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

CM Sindh Highlights Investment Opportunities In Tourism And Other Sectors

Web Desk

Jun 3, 2022

Islamabad: Syed Murad Ali Shah Chief Minister Sindh urged the investors to explore Sindh’s historic and compelling beauty by investing in the tourism sites across the province. CM presented the investment profile of the province at the “Investment in Sindh” session, held on the sidelines of World Economic Forum last week at Davos.

Sind Investment Session was organized by the Pathfinder Group of Companies. The conference was attended by Chairman Pathfinder Group Ikram Sehgal, Co-Chairman Pathfinder Group Zarrar Sehgal, Special Assistant to CM Sindh on Investment Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar and DG Private Public Partnership Assad Zamin, while a large number of potential investors and government officials were also present. Ikram Sehgal delivered a welcome note and introduced the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister addressing the conference highlighted some major steps taken by Sindh government to ease international investors. CM assured the investors of fair policies, transparency, and attractive economic returns. We are working hard to make the province investment-friendly to improve the provincial economy by creating employment and opportunities, he said.

A detailed presentation was shared with the audience offering them different potential sectors for investment. Eco-friendly Tourism, Water & Environment, Trade & Development, Education & Technology, Urban ecosystem, and food security. Around 90 percent of these projects would be completed under Private Public Partnership while few of them would be completed in the traditional way. According to the provincial government, an investment of approximately USD 6 billion would be utilized.

By taking the advantage of Sindh’s rich tourism profile, the provincial government has decided to invite local & international investments for a variety of tourism projects including up gradation of Gorkh Hills Station site, KMC Beachfront project, Thar Tourism Project, and Keenjhar Lake Project. All these tourism projects would cost around USD 680 Million. A bullet train is being planned to ease the commute of 400 kilometers between Karachi and the inviting Gorakh Hills.

Delivery Is A Go With foodpanda’s Delivery Service pandago!

Web Desk

Jun 3, 2022

After the success of foodpanda’s food delivery platform, the creators brought us pandamart, a grocery delivery service where sellers and buyers meet, and customers can shop for all their necessities without ever having to leave their homes. And now, they’re offering pandago – an on-demand delivery service for businesses big and small!

During the pandemic, as the global economy began to operate on its bare minimum due to lockdowns across the world, layoffs were experienced everywhere, which led to a rise in small businesses and entrepreneurs all over the world. This caused excess demand for delivery providers, and a shortage of supply the same. To help bridge the gap between demand and supply, foodpanda has introduced pandago, their on-demand delivery service.

What sets foodpanda apart from other food services, is its drive for innovative value creation and its customer-centric approach. foodpanda was launched by Ralph Wenzel and Benjamin Bauer in March of 2012 and has its headquarters in Berlin, Germany while its operations have spread to over 40 countries and 500 cities across 5 continents.

pandago offers businesses big and small a solution for all their delivery problems. This delivery service offers many new and exciting USPs (unique selling points) one of which is their dynamic pricing model that is specifically customized for every business registering with them, depending on how big or small the scale of their current operations is.

Thanks to the former success of foodpanda and pandamart, pandago offers its users a trusted network of riders with a fleet of 50,000+ riders. Long gone are the days of registration hassle and hidden costs, pandago’s support team is highly efficient and cooperative when it comes to catering to their customers. To register your business with pandago, one simply has to send an email to pandago@foodpanda.pk, and after answering a few questions; their team completes the process on their own, leaving you free to handle your operations.

Additionally, there are no on-boarding costs or transaction fees, which is great news for new and small businesses that may not have extra cash to spend. pandago also offers surge-free pricing. Price surges during peak times can really drive up delivery costs for businesses operating out of urban areas that experience a consistent flow of traffic, especially during specific hours.

Unlike other delivery services, pandago offers its users the option for making multiple deliveries at any given point in the day with a delivery time of 25 minutes, and the included ability to track all deliveries in real-time.

Online and home businesses that are looking to expand can do so easily, thanks to pandago’s reliable and economical service that takes care of any logistical constraints that may have been faced in the past.

Currently, pandago is operating out of 40 cities nationwide and delivers to both urban and rural areas. With mango season right around the corner, mango suppliers situated outside cities can rely on pandago to help deliver their products to their suppliers within the city, while benefiting from their dynamic pricing model as well as pandago’s cost-transparent business operations.

Trailer Of Ahad Raza Mir’s Netfix Series Is Finally Out

Dr. Rida Qamar

Jun 3, 2022

Ahad Raza Mir is set to make his debut in Hollywood with Netflix’s thriller ‘Resident Evil.’ The news of the Pakistani actor starring in a Netflix original took the social media by storm. However, soon after the trailer was released, fans were disappointed to not find him anywhere in the scenes.

Ahad Raza Mir In Resident Evil

While fans were anticipating the appearance of Ahad Raza in the Netflix original, there was no sign of the Ehd -e- Wafa actor in the trailer. The character of Ahad might be kept under wraps for now, or it might be nothing more than a guest appearance. However, not finding him in the trailer has been quite disappointing for the fans.

Take a look at the official trailer below.

Another trailer for the series was released two weeks ago. It showed the cast running away from the deadly apocalyptic virus. The trailer seems exciting, and fans can’t help but wonder when Ahad Raza Mir will grace the screens in his Hollywood debut.

Ahad Raza Mir Shared The Big Picture

However, after waiting for a month, the cat is finally out of the bag. As the actor has shared an exclusive image from the set of ‘Resident Evil’. He is setting aside all speculations of whether his role in the upcoming Netflix original was real or not.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by VeryFilmi (@veryfilmi)

The actor took to Instagram to share the image with a caption, “Hope this brings you some ‘JOY.”

Full of blood, gore, and lots of zombies, the Resident Evil series is set to release this July 14th. The eight-episode zombie drama will be a time-hopping survival thriller, with a group of youngsters fighting for their lives against a host of the undead.

The teaser shows snippets of the horror extravaganza at hand, with the storyline alternating between modern-day New Raccoon City and a future zombie-infested London in 2036.

While fans can’t help but look forward to his role in the series, everyone is wondering why his scenes didn’t make a cut in either of the trailers. He also shared the trailer for the upcoming series on his social media with a caption,

“Nothing eventful ever happens in the peaceful New Raccoon City. The legendary franchise Resident Evil brings its battle for survival to Netflix on July 14th.”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

5 Online Pages In Pakistan That Are Selling Premium Quality Mangoes

Dr. Rida Qamar

Jun 2, 2022

Have you ever heard someone saying that they do not like mangoes? If your answer is yes, then they are probably lying. The king of fruits has its place in our which can never be replaced by something else.

Meanwhile, mango season is finally here, giving us a chance to indulge in some good quality mangoes. With mango season, one can never enjoy enough breeds and styles. From chaunsa to sindhri and Anwer ratol, the never-ending options can be overwhelming. However, one must take this opportunity to learn more about mangoes.

So, before we bid farewell to mango season, look at some of the online pages offering premium quality mango boxes at excellent prices.

1. Ajwa Farms

Ajwa farms offer export quality mangoes in all breeds at highly competitive prices. The fruit is hand-picked from their farms and packed and delivered in time with great care.

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A post shared by Ajwa Farms (@ajwafarms.pk)

2. Nice Farms

Be it Chaunsa or Anwer Ratol, these export-quality products are naturally ripened without the use of chemicals and toxins. Enjoy good quality mangoes from the comfort of your own home. These hygienic boxed also makes for the perfect gift to your guests and loved ones.

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A post shared by NiCe (@nicefarmsandfoods)

3. Kachelo Fruit Farms

Kachelo fruit farms offer a variety of products on their menu. However, their mangoes take the limelight with bright coloured boxed and neat packaging. You can also get your mangoes customised to your style in a wooden box, which can be perfect for sending abroad.

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A post shared by KacheloFruitFarms (@kachelofruitfarms)

4. Rahuki Farms

They are offering excellent products at pocket-friendly prices. You can have a mango-ficient mango season with your order from Rahuki farms. These hand-picked mangoes are perfectly curated and packed by hands individually in a customised wrapping paper making the experience more personalised.

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A post shared by Rahuki Farms (@rahukifarms)

5. Greenpick Pk

You can order green pick mangoes from their website or via message on their social media accounts. These luscious organic mangoes are a perfect treat to add to your desserts and shakes or enjoy on their own.

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A post shared by GREENPICK (@greenpickpk)

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

A Blink Break? KitKat Challenges Gen-Z To An AI Staring Contest

Lyza Rashid

Jun 2, 2022

kitkat ai contest — Image Source: Fab News

KitKat is onto another league with the latest venture of its own for netizens. The famous chocolate brand, KitKat, is giving people the chance to “have a break”. It’s going to launch a global AI-powered staring contest, Blink Break. Participants will have a face-off with absurd animals and it keeps getting more intense. Here’s everything you need to know:

What’s Going On With KitKat?

The new AI staring contest has been developed by Wunderman Thompson’s UK and Seattle offices. The contest titled Blink Break will see participants face off against progressively more absurd animals as they keep getting further into the game. Animals like a lemur or a snowy owl will be staring back at you as if they’re real. The game uses machine learning to recognize a face and detect blinking. It also returns results “literally within the blink of an eye”.

What Is The Purpose?

When asked why the new contest, KitKat had a heartwarming response to give. KitKat said that the Blink Break serves as a fun and much-needed distraction from the mundane every day. People can actually take a break!

This launch is even more important because of what many studies are now showing. New studies have shown that even brief diversions from a task can dramatically improve the ability to focus. We all know now that people are turning to social media to break up their day more than ever before.

Where Has This Been Launched?

KitKat did its research and found that Instagram is the most famous app for Gen Z. 63% of users scroll through their feed at least once a day. Thus, it launched its Blink Break on its Instagram page.

The team behind KitKat added that the chocolate has encouraged people to take a break since its inception. Now, this campaign shows how it has adapted for younger minds. The team recognizes that developing an AI strategy is unlike a chocolate brand. However, the movie comes to show the “legendary positioning” of the chocolate with a fresh perspective. Surely this strategy will work its charm and make KitKat once again the best-selling chocolate out there.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

5 Pakistani Films That Are Soon To Hit The Cinemas

Dr. Rida Qamar

Jun 2, 2022

The Pakistani cinema industry is back with a bang after a hiatus of two years, and there is no stopping it. Now that Eid ul Adha is coming, celebrities and the public is gearing up to welcome some of the most anticipated hits on Eid.

The Evolution Of Pakistani Cinema

While the Pakistani cinema industry has evolved over the years, a significant shift is being observed now, with new releases every few months. While the dilemma of supporting the local content is still on the rise, the production quality and direction of the local movies are speaking for themselves. The upcoming Pakistani films also seize the audience’s attention with the storyline and the direction.

This Eid ul Adha, cinemas are welcoming a few masterpieces set to break records. Here is a list of all the films releasing this Eid.

1. Kamli

Saba Qamar starred in ‘Kamli’ is doing rounds on social media after the premiere for the movie was held in a local cinema. While everyone can anticipate the phenomenal acting delivered by the actress, it is arbitrary to say that the actress received a standing ovation at the end of the premiere. Directed by Sarmad Khoosat, the cast includes Sania Saeed, Omair Rana and Nimra Bucha. The teaser for the ‘Kamli’ is not an average movie trailer. Without a single dialogue, it manages to captivate the audience’s attention like no other.

2. Beyond The Wetlands

‘Beyond the Wetlands’ is a feature film that portrays the life of mountain climbers. Revolving around the themes of hope, desperation, and resilience, the trailer receives a lot of praise from the netizens. From direction to the soundtrack, every aspect of the movie seems promising. If ‘Beyond the Wetlands’ receives the recognition it deserves, the movie will become a stepping stone for the causing a revolution in the industry.

3. Quaid -e- Azam Zindabad

Mahira Khan’s fans rejoice as the actress is back on the big screen after years. ‘Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad’ is all about a strong plot packed with action. Fahad Mustafa is starring as the male lead alongside Mahira Khan. Even though the trailer is not giving away much of the story, the exquisite direction and high-end stunts show the movie is made on an upscale level and is worth a watch.

4. Rehbra

Ayesha Omer is back as Babli in ‘Rehbra’ – a story about love, betrayal, and revolt. Rehbra stars Ahsan Khan alongside Ayesha, and the two are ready to take on the silver screen for the first time as a duo.

5. London Nahi Jaunga

After Lahore Nahi Jaungi, Humayun Saeed returns with ‘London Nahi Jaunga’. The film casts Mehwish Hayat alongside Kubra Khan. As assumed by the name, the movie will follow the same storyline as the prequel.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.