Archives June 2025

Walmart Vriddhi Partners to Empower an Additional 100,000 MSMEs for Business Growth by 2028, Expanding their Access to International Markets

NEW DELHI and BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 20, 2025 – Walmart’s supplier development program, Walmart Vriddhi, partners with Ideas to Impact Foundation (i2i) to empower an additional 100,000 MSMEs in India in the next three years. With the combined strengths of Walmart’s global supply chain expertise and Flipkart’s pan-India eCommerce capabilities, Walmart Vriddhi’s free program will help enable more MSMEs to expand their access to both national and international markets.

Since its launch in 2019, Walmart Vriddhi has trained over 70,000 MSMEs by enabling access to digital commerce, personalized mentorship and strategic partnerships. By using digital tools to train MSMEs in crucial aspects of business management such as finance, marketing, workforce management and environmental sustainability, the program empowers entrepreneurs to establish successful and sustainable business models. Walmart Vriddhi graduates have experienced approximately 55% year-on-year growth through the program‘s enablement.

Participants will benefit from an approach devised by Walmart, Flipkart and the program’s implementing partner, Ideas to Impact Foundation, through access, outreach and program management expertise. With foot-on-ground teams, enablers, access to digital skilling tools, onboarding and personalized mentorship, the program is building a high-impact engine to empower its participants.

“We are constantly inspired by India’s vibrant innovation ecosystem and the growth potential of its MSMEs. Many micro enterprises face difficulties in securing the knowledge, tools and market access they need to thrive. Empowering these entrepreneurs with critical business skills and market access has helped them to build and scale their business sustainably, and contribute to India’s economic growth story,” said Jason Fremstad, Senior Vice President, Supplier Development, Walmart.

“As we enter the next phase of Walmart Vriddhi, we’re empowering MSMEs with new tools for digital growth, sustainability and export readiness, and we continue to provide these for free. Through the Walmart Supplier Academy’s eLearning modules and new ecosystem partnerships, we’re going beyond skilling to enable businesses to sell through Walmart Marketplace and Flipkart. At Walmart, we’re proud to support India’s small businesses in building a future that’s bigger, more digital and more connected than ever before,” he further added.

As MSMEs scale their operations, the Walmart Vriddhi program will continue to help them pursue their international ambitions by enabling access to cross-border trade via the Walmart Marketplace (Walmart.com). It will also provide businesses with tools to integrate into supply chains, including those of Flipkart Marketplace, Walmart Marketplace or any other online platforms.

Rajneesh Kumar, SVP and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Flipkart Group, added, “Our unwavering commitment at Flipkart is to empower MSMEs by democratizing access to digital commerce and vast growth opportunities. Through strategic collaborations like Walmart Vriddhi, we are collectively enabling entrepreneurs to scale their aspirations and significantly contribute to India’s burgeoning digital economy.”

As part of its efforts to broaden the reach and impact of the program, Walmart will engage with strategic partners to drive inclusive growth. The program has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the governments of Haryana to facilitate onboarding and empower success, and will soon sign additional MoUs with other states. Building on the success of Walmart Vriddhi in India, similar supplier development initiatives have been launched in Mexico (Crece con Walmart) and the U.S. (Grow with US).

To participate in the Walmart Vriddhi program, MSMEs can register here: https://www.walmartvriddhi.org/. Sellers aiming to sell to the U.S. through Walmart Marketplace can register through this link:  https://www.walmartvriddhi.org/marketplace

To further simplify information for entrepreneurs, the Walmart Vriddhi website now contains a consolidated resource platform for small businesses to access offerings from Walmart’s group companies and other resources. MSMEs can access onboarding links for Flipkart, Myntra, and Walmart Marketplace, domestic payment solutions, and initiatives across the Walmart and Flipkart ecosystem tailored to support small businesses and artisans entering domestic and global eCommerce.

Introducing the Monna Lisa ML-18000, the latest innovation in Epson’s Monna Lisa digital textile printer lineup

Bengaluru, 19 June 2025: Epson, a global leader in digital imaging and printing technologies, today announced the launch of the latest addition to its flagship Monna Lisa series of digital textile printers. As the global textile industry embraces a digital transformation, there is a growing need for technologies that offer speed, flexibility, and environmental responsibility without compromising on quality. Digital textile printing has emerged as a vital enabler of this shift — allowing for agile production, reduced resource consumption, and stunning visual expression across a range of fabrics and applications.

In response to these evolving demands, Epson is now launching the Monna Lisa ML-18000 — the latest innovation in its flagship series of high-performance digital textile printers. Designed to deliver unparalleled performance for high-volume production, the ML-18000 offers exceptional print speed, enhanced color depth, and sustainable performance making it a powerful solution for the evolving needs of the textile and fashion printing industries.

Unmatched Productivity with Double Black Ink and PrecisionCore Technology

At the heart of the ML-18000 are 18 Epson PrecisionCore® Micro TFP printheads, enabling production speeds of up to 252 sqm/h in 2-pass mode (600 x 600 dpi), while maintaining outstanding print quality. Its double black ink configuration delivers significantly improved black density, enabling deep, rich tones at high speeds—ideal for applications across fashion, home décor, and soft signage. Compared to its predecessor, the Monna Lisa ML-16000, the ML-18000 utilizes a higher proportion of black ink, achieving improved optical density with greater cost-efficiency, especially for dark and monochromatic designs.

Sustainable Performance with Reduced water usage

In line with Epson’s commitment to sustainability,  the ML-18000 features an Integrated Water Recycling Unit which conserves valuable water resources by filtering and recycling water used in belt cleaning processes. A built-in sensor continuously monitors the level of water contamination, ensuring maximum recycling efficiency in compliance with local wastewater drainage regulations˟¹. This compact, efficient system reduces water consumption, helps meet local wastewater regulations, and minimizes environmental impact- making it an ideal solution for eco-conscious production environments.

Monna Lisa Quality: Powered by Epson Precision Technologies

The ML-18000 integrates Epson’s advanced Precision Dot Technologies, including microweave and lookup table technologies that reduce banding and graininess. Its multi-layer halftone technology that randomizes halftone dot patterns to reduce visual artifacts and ensure smoother gradations. Additional features like symmetrical color alignment, accurate belt position control, and Epson Edge Print PRO X is genuine Epson RIP software which supports Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE) – the industry’s leading technology with 16-bit rendering guarantee high-speed and high quality outputs with exceptional detail, clarity, and accuracy—crucial for complex designs and fine patterns.

Engineered for Ease and Efficiency

The ML-18000 is built for non-stop operation. It features a dual 10-liter ink system, high-efficiency cleaning mechanisms, and automated maintenance tools, including auto nozzle verification technology, fabric wiper cleaning, a fluff blower system, ink mist extraction system, and auto calibration powered by an integrated RGB camera. These ensure consistent print quality while minimizing downtime.

Environmentally friendly inks

The ML-18000 uses Epson GENESTA Reactive Inks, which are ECO PASSPORT certified to meet globally recognized standards for environmentally friendly textile printing, and GOTS-approved by ECOCERT˟². These inks deliver brilliant color reproduction while minimizing environmental impact.

Connected for Smart Management

The printer is supported by Epson Cloud Solution PORT, which allows users to monitor printer performance remotely from a PC or mobile device helping to maximize productivity˟³. This real-time visibility enhances workflow productivity and enables Epson’s service teams to diagnose issues remotely, ensuring faster resolution and minimal disruption.

Applications

The ML-18000 is ideal for producing high-quality prints on various fabrics, including silk, cotton, polyester, and blends. Its versatility makes it suitable for diverse markets such as haute couture, fast fashion, home textiles, and sportswear

Mumbai: June 20th, 2025 – Say goodbye to associating ‘feeling blue’ with the monsoon season! 2.Oh!, a science-first hair products company, is whipping up a storm with its newly launched range of bold blue semi-permanent hair colors — Aquamarine and Cerulean – that are set to uplift your mood and your style!

These shades, crafted in Italy and created for Indian hair, are the perfect monsoon accessories for anyone who wants to light up a dull, monsoon day with a splash of blue and a vibe that spells ‘cool’!

“At 2.Oh!, we celebrate the freedom of expression with our range of products. These Aquamarine and Cerulean semi-permanent hair colors are not only a great way to elevate your personal style, they’re also great for your hair health — nourishing and gentle on your colored strands,” said Ritu Vijayvergiya, Co-Founder,2.Oh!

These DIY, high-impact shades are powered by salon-grade formulas with micro pure pigments, Argan oil, and sunflower seed extract. Aquamarine lasts 12–15 washes, while Cerulean fades in 5–6 washes giving you the freedom to stay bold or switch it up fast!

Aquamarine semi-permanent hair color

Aquamarine is designed for beginners who are craving a statement look but want to ease into the color journey. One lightning session is often enough to achieve vibrant results, making this a go-to for color newbies. Wear this shade on your hair with faded denims
or white outfits to make the color pop. Accessorise with silver jewellery for a striking look. Keep your hair looking healthy and shiny with a nourishing leave-in conditioner and hair serum. These protect your hair from dryness, frizz and keep the color looking
fresh longer.

Cerulean Blue semi – permanent hair color

This shade is a more muted, stormy grey-blue that’s perfect for those who want a hint of subtle sophistication but with an edge that makes them stand out. Cerulean is a more experimental shade for those who want something unique and different from mainstream
colors. Its soft tone is ideal for people who love pastels with a twist. Expect best results after 3–4 lightning sessions, especially if starting with darker hair. Looks great with a monochrome or minimalist style. Think a black and white look with bronze jewellery? Keep your color looking fresh with 2.Oh!’s anti-yellow shampoo that will keep the brassiness at bay.

Those with naturally dark hair may require a lightening process — usually at least three sessions — to ensure their strands absorbs the maximum color pigment.

By Shraddha Singh, Digital Marketing Manager, E-beautify Asia (Studex India)

The beauty industry has been constantly evolving, and Gen Z is taking things to the edge. They’re creating a quiet revolution where they no longer believe in following the rat race, but creating a personalised approach to the trends. They are making more body-positive choices in terms of beauty and even modern jewellery and piercing choices.

More than just appearances, Gen Z is pushing for change, demanding beauty that is inclusive, safe, and truly personal. If there’s one thing Gen Z is teaching the world, it’s this: beauty doesn’t come in one shape, shade, or style.

Beauty Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All Anymore

For Gen Z, beauty is no longer about fitting into someone else’s mould. It’s about expressing themselves through their style and their unique take on how they want to become a trend and not follow one. Whether it is experimenting with a funky look with a septum nose piercing or choosing skincare-infused makeup, Gen Z is really making choices that are raising the standards high.

Unlike earlier generations that often felt the pressure to look “perfect,” Gen Z embraces flaws, caring less about how others think they should look and more about what makes them feel like themselves.

This shift has pushed the beauty industry to offer more customizable options according to different skin types, skin tones, and body shapes. Piercing studios have unique tools for different piercings, better inclusive environments, and safer hygiene methods for piercings that celebrate identity and not just aesthetics.

The Silent Expression of Piercings

As far as the ongoing trends, Gen Z has brought in the craze for unique piercings, one of the most powerful tools of self-expression. But they’re not just doing it for style. Piercings have come across as a way of expression that marks a special event or a milestone in their lives. Some get pierced after a tough time as a way of healing or taking back their power.

What’s different now is how they’re doing it.

Gen Z is more conscious about safety and quality. They don’t like compromising on quality just because a piercing can be done at a slightly lesser price, but can cause allergies in the long run.
They don’t shy away (and nobody should) from asking for hypoallergenic jewellery, detailed aftercare, and ethical practices. This is creating a wave of awareness and demand in the beauty industry and encouraging piercing studios to become more aware and educated.

Power to Choose and Create

This generation of the population, even the kids, are way smarter in understanding what’s best for them. It is seen that Gen Z has been making bold choices and controlling their decisions. They don’t buy products or book appointments just because it’s trending. They’re rather asking, “Does this speak to me? Does this reflect who I am?”

Choosing unique piercing styles, curating personalised ear stacks, or even picking skincare as per different weather or skin concerns tells us that they are afraid to experiment but value authenticity above all.

Conclusion

To conclude, Gen Z isn’t against or wants to change how most of us look at beauty standards. They’re changing how the industry works. In a world where brands are being promoted, they’re expecting brands to think from the consumer’s eye and then provide products or services that are authentic, safe, and promising. They want to remind everyone that beauty should never be about fitting in; it should be about standing out, comfortably and confidently.

And the industry is taking notes because the future is personal.

New Delhi, India, 20th June 2025 –  Alcatel, the leading French consumer tech brand, and Digital Turbine, the company that powers the premium mobile experience through innovative technology, have announced an exclusive partnership to elevate mobile user experience in India. As Alcatel launches its new range of smartphones in India, the collaboration with DT will allow them to deliver seamless, personalized experiences that enhance how users interact with their mobile devices.

This partnership with Nxtcell India, a 100% Indian-domiciled company that holds brand authorization for “Alcatel” in India and other international markets, will integrate Digital Turbine’s suite of mobile technologies directly into Alcatel devices manufactured in India, enhancing how users discover and engage with apps. Through Dynamic Installs, users are introduced to pre-selected apps tailored to their preferences, opening new opportunities for app discovery. SingleTap™ installs make it easy to download apps instantly and seamlessly – with no app store visit and no disruption to the user experience. To further enhance the experience, timely and relevant notifications provide app recommendations based on individual interests, helping users get more value from their device during everyday moments.

“India is one of the most important smartphone markets globally and we’re excited to partner with Digital Turbine to deliver a richer, more personalized experience for our users,” said Atul Vivek, Chief Business Officer, NxtCell India. 

“This collaboration with Digital Turbine ensures that Alcatel devices offer more than just hardware, they deliver ongoing value, engaging content and a great user experience from day one.” added Ansh Rathi, Chief Operating Officer, Nxtcell India 

Digital Turbine’s technology transforms how users discover and interact with apps and services by delivering personalized content and app recommendations when users are most engaged.

With this partnership, Alcatel can deliver customized user journeys and unlock new app discovery opportunities for their users by joining a global network of leading manufacturers and carriers who deliver innovative mobile experiences that put the user first. By partnering with Digital Turbine, Alcatel joins a network of top manufacturers like Xiaomi, Samsung, HMD, Nokia, Motorola, and others, to reach hundreds of millions of users globally.

“We’re excited to be Alcatel’s exclusive partner in India, a major milestone for Digital Turbine in the country,” said Phil Bramson, GM, App Media, Digital Turbine. “Together, we are elevating the user experience and driving real consumer value in one of the world’s biggest markets by offering relevant content and meaningful engagement opportunities that evolve throughout the device’s lifecycle.”

With a strong emphasis on innovation and user-centric design, Alcatel’s launch in India marks a significant expansion for the brand in the world’s second-largest smartphone market. The integration of Digital Turbine’s solutions positions Alcatel devices as a gateway to smarter, more personalized mobile interactions.

By-Piyali Chatterjee Konar, Executive Vice President, Head – CX/UX/B2B at Hansa Research Group Private Limited

Yoga has transformed into an effective and holistic lifestyle choice, that addresses the physical, mental, and emotional demands of today’s life. Insights from Hansa Cheetah, our proprietary insights platform, reveal that 88% of individuals (64% daily and 24% a few times weekly) have shown that it has a solid foothold, mostly in the 26–35 age group. Awareness of International Yoga Day is high at 95% and shows its cultural importance, as a country with a rich yoga and cultural heritage.

The benefits of yoga appear to have broken across demographics: 72% have reported a decline in stress and anxiety levels, 60% have better sleep, and 64% have relief from physical discomfort. Perhaps its effectiveness is illustrated by 75% of survey respondents believing yoga is more effective than other fitness activities. In youth engagement: 66% said they were influenced by celebrities on social media or following trends, and 61% said they began doing yoga to help with their mental health. More than 80% say they would be interested in attending a Gen Z yoga, music, and wellness event signaling a fresh, modern vibrancy.

In fact, this trend may reflect even how yoga is accessed – 82% indicated a preference for practice at home compared with 89% who have ever participated in a mass yoga activity. Digital platforms also increasingly matter, given that digital content featuring guided practices and mindfulness principles is accessed by more than half of the younger practitioners. It is also encouraging that 82% indicated a desire to join a government-sponsored yoga program, and 72% want it to be included in schools and college curricula.

Given that 73% expect yoga to gain more significance in the future, and the popularity of yoga increases in a world where digital fatigue and AI-influenced lifestyles are on the rise, we are confident that yoga is not only a tradition but a wellness movement looking ahead.

Bengaluru, 20th June, 2025: DizzyDuck Studio will celebrate International Yoga Day by offering its first-ever curated wellness experience called “Flow With Grace”, on June 21 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. It will be a two hour, immersive, and sensory experience that brings together the power of yoga with the meditative impulse of live handpan music. An immersive experience, co-led by yoga facilitator Shruti Dewan and handpan artist Neeraj Mistry, Spark will give participants a meaningful, restorative experience to slow down, move intentionally and explore stillness in themselves. There are 15 spots for this experience, as we wanted to keep the group small, intimate and free of distractions; we wanted participants to tap into a nurturing environment where attention can be personal and rest is comfortable and meaningful.

“This is more than a yoga class,  it’s a mindful journey. We wanted to bring forward something that encapsulates the heart and spirit of Yoga Day, connection, calm and community. By offering participants an experience that brings together the mind with intentional movement and the therapeutic tones of the handpan, participants can explore and experience a practice that heals both body and mind.” said Ipshita Das, Founder Dizzy Duck

The session will begin with some gentle flow-based movements before we move deeper into asana guided by Shruti Dewan. Neeraj Mistry will be playing the handpan live, which will invite the participants to tap into their movement through improvised expression, meaning that the tones coming from the handpan will elevate how participants experience emotions and give them freedom to move comfortably within a sensory rich experience. Towards the latter half of the session, the focus will be on stillness, with supported poses for the participants to find rest, and sound healing, to guide them into clarity.

DizzyDuck Studio, a simple, peaceful area renowned for encouraging creativity and mindful living, will serve as the event’s backdrop. It will be converted into a haven of peace with natural materials, gentle lighting, and fragrant accents. The public can purchase tickets for this event, and a select group of community members and collaborators are invited as guests. From total novices to seasoned practitioners, all skill levels are welcome.

₹3169-Crore 63-storey 217m Mega Residential Project “The Cascades Neopolis” by GHR Lakshmi Urbanblocks Infra LLP Rises in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD, June 20, 2025 – GHR Lakshmi Urbanblocks Infra LLP, a visionary joint venture by the promoters of GHR Infra, Lakshmi Infra, and Urbanblocks Realty, today announced the launch of “The Cascades Neopolis,” a ₹3169-Crore luxury residential project that is set to redefine opulent living in Hyderabad. This project, with its five 63-storey towers and 217m in height, is poised to become an iconic landmark (with targeted handover to buyers by March 2030), offering a sublime blend of contemporary design, sustainable living, and smart home automation.

Strategically located in Neopolis, the project spans a sprawling 7.34 acres. The development will feature 1,189 exquisitely designed 3BHK and 4BHK apartments, ranging from a spacious 2,560 sq. ft to a sprawling 4,825 sq. ft, alongside 10 exclusive triplex penthouses that boast private pools on Level 54. With 7 levels of parking (2 basement + 5 podium) ensuring ample space for residents, ground- and sky-level amenities, the project will be meticulously crafted to address the increasing demand for luxury and smart living spaces that prioritize holistic wellness and environmental responsibility.

Leading global architects roped in to create a futuristic structure

The architectural marvel of The Cascades is aimed at remaining futuristic, even several decades after completion. Developed with invaluable insights and inputs from leading global consultants, including UHA London (Concept Architect), Coopers Hill Singapore (Landscape Architect), Studio HBA Singapore (interior design – amenities), and Buro Happold (UK) (Structural Engineering), the towers are being visually inspired by the cascading waterfalls nestled within nature.

Concierge services and certifications that enhance living experience for residents

International concierge services by Quintessentially will benefit residents immensely; the aim is to provide discreet personalized lifestyle management services, with access to exclusive experiences worldwide. Their global network will aim for seamless execution for their customers, for everything from travel to unique and customized requests.

The project is also aiming for WELL Pre-Certification (once achieved, it could be the first such residential project in South India) and IGBC Platinum Pre-Certification, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to global standards for health, wellness, and environmental stewardship. The development integrates energy-efficient systems, high-performance building materials, solar energy for common areas, rainwater harvesting, and advanced air purification systems to enhance the indoor environment, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly living practices.

“We believe that the true essence of life lies in creating spaces that nurture well-being, both physical and emotional. Neopolis as an area itself has numerous green spaces, and wide roads featuring tree zones, promoting a pleasant environment.” stated Mr. Karteesh Reddy M, Designated Partner, GHR Lakshmi Urbanblocks Infra LLP (representing GHR Infra). “In addition to this, The Cascades Neopolis is designed to go beyond luxury living by focusing on holistic wellness—from the landscaped gardens to wellness zones. It’s about offering a living experience that helps residents thrive, not just exist.”

“We are building something extraordinary here in Neopolis, and we are banking on some of our key strengths or factors to make this a reality. Our belief in the supremacy of our project in terms of ideation, USPs, and execution; legal compliance with all the requisite approvals having been duly obtained, including RERA registration; proper fund planning, including SBI’s sanction of INR 900 Crores and seamless fund flow to the project; timely completion, delivered time and again by our group entities. These factors will invariably contribute to the confidence of both the investors and buyers,” remarked Mr. Lakshmi Narayana G, Designated Partner, GHR Lakshmi Urbanblocks Infra LLP (representing Lakshmi Infra).

“As developers, we strive to bring something unique to every project — and this development is a true testament to that,” narrates Mr. Sharat V, Designated Partner, GHR Lakshmi Urbanblocks Infra LLP (representing Urbanblocks Realty). ”We have meticulously followed the latest design and lifestyle trends, integrating quality features and facilities, to ensure a world-class living experience. The highlights will include an exclusive sky lounge with captivating glass elevators, a breath-taking Sky Garden featuring a rooftop infinity pool, paddle tennis, pickle ball court, a dedicated yoga deck, and an outdoor gym. The project will have two helipads, a Sky Bridge connecting all towers, and an expansive 200,000+ sq. ft 7-level amenities, including a lavish 50,000+ sq. ft Clubhouse.”

Chandigarh, 20 June 2025: The revered Naga Sadhus have brought global recognition to India through the ‘Naga Saint Eye Test’ — a powerful public health initiative that won silver lion in the Health & Wellness category at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2025. The campaign was led by Godrej Consumer Products Ltd. (GCPL) in collaboration with the Eyebetes Foundation, a charitable organisation committed to raising awareness about diabetes and preventable blindness.

India is home to nearly 100 million diabetics, of whom over 60% remain undiagnosed.  Diabetes is also the leading cause of preventable blindness. Conceptualized by Godrej Creative Lab, the in-house creative studio of GCPL, ‘Naga Saint Eye Test’ took a bold and culturally rooted approach to spotlight this issue of diabetes-induced blindness.

Leveraging the spiritual aura and visibility of the Naga Sadhus, the health initiative transformed them into living eye vision testing charts, with bold Hindi letters painted on their bare backs in Devanagari script. Those unable to read the letters were guided to a free eye check-up camp. The initiative was conducted at the Triveni Sangam site during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Swati Bhattacharya, Global Head of Godrej Creative Lab, the in-house creative studio of GCPL, said, “The most complex human problems can have the simplest of solutions. Our first win was when the Naga Sadhu community said ‘yes’ to us. This win will now make the Eyebetes foundation get visibility all over the world. Our idea has travelled from the world’s biggest spiritual festival to the world’s biggest creative festival.”

Dr. Nishant Kumar, Founder, Eyebetes Foundation, said, “Preventable blindness due to diabetes is a cause close to my heart. In collaboration with Godrej Consumer Products and Godrej Creative Lab, we transformed awareness into action at the Maha Kumbh in a way that was both culturally resonant and emotionally powerful. Using Naga sadhus as live eye charts captured public imagination and sparked thousands of on-ground vision screenings. Winning a Silver Lion at Cannes not only validates the creativity and purpose behind this campaign but also puts a global spotlight on an Indian innovation that is saving sight and lives.”

With 600 million people reached and 400,000 individuals received eye care, the ‘Naga Saint Eye Test’ became one of the largest public health interventions at Maha Kumbh 2025.

By introducing the social initiative at one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, GCPL and Eyebetes Foundation brought this urgent public health issue to the forefront—using tradition and faith to connect with people in a way that was both meaningful and memorable.