First Saudi female fencer appointed student sports ambassador

First Saudi female fencer appointed student sports ambassador
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Ruba Mohammed Al-Masri has been appointed as the first female fencer to represent Saudi Arabia as a student ambassador for the International University Sport Federation (FISU). (Supplied)
First Saudi female fencer appointed student sports ambassador
2 / 2
Ruba Mohammed Al-Masri has been appointed as the first female fencer to represent Saudi Arabia as a student ambassador for the International University Sport Federation (FISU). (Supplied)
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Updated 20 September 2024
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First Saudi female fencer appointed student sports ambassador

First Saudi female fencer appointed student sports ambassador

JEDDAH: The first female fencer has been appointed as Saudi Arabia’s student sports ambassador to the International University Sport Federation.

The appointment of Ruba Mohammed Al-Masri to the role highlights the Kingdom’s empowerment of female athletes in recent years.

The FISU Student Ambassador program aims to promote the development of university sports and support sporting volunteer programs in ambassadors’ home countries.

Al-Masri told Arab News: “I consider this historic achievement for Saudi sports as a true turning point. It fills me with pride and honor. This success is not just an individual accomplishment; it reflects the tremendous efforts being made by the Kingdom to support women’s sports and empower youth. Seeing a Saudi girl shine on the international stage represents a dream come true, and it opens new doors for young talents.”

Princess Reema bint Bandar, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the US, highlighted Al-Masri’s achievement as an example of the Kingdom’s dedication to advancing women in sports.

She posted on X: “Women’s fencing in Saudi Arabia has made great strides from 2016 when Lubna Al-Omair competed in the Olympic Games in Rio to today with athletes like Ruba.”

https://x.com/rbalsaud/status/1835840617261252823

The acknowledgement from Princess Reema was an emotional milestone for Al-Masri. She said: “It felt like a validation of all the hard work, dedication and sacrifices I had made throughout my journey as a female athlete.

“Her support and recognition not only inspired me but also underscored the importance of empowering women in sports. Knowing that such a prominent figure believes in my potential is a tremendous honor and a powerful encouragement to keep pushing forward.”

Al-Masri’s fencing journey began in April 2018 and was deeply influenced by her father, a former champion in the Arab region.

“Growing up, I was always surrounded by his memorabilia — photos and medals that showcased his accomplishments throughout his athletic career,” she said. “Moreover, with the recent initiatives led by our Crown Prince to empower women in sports, I felt encouraged to follow in his footsteps.”

Support from her family, particularly her parents, was instrumental in shaping her passion and ambition. But there were challenges along the path — Al-Masri faced several obstacles, including finding suitable training facilities and balancing her academic and professional commitments.

“Finding suitable training facilities and the ability to register female athletes in clubs were significant hurdles,” she said. “Despite these challenges, I am proud to say that I have persevered and built a name for myself in various fields. I hold a double major in law and aesthetic specialization, and I have simultaneously worked for three different marketing companies while excelling in my sport.”

As a student-athlete ambassador, Al-Masri intends to make a real impact on future generations.

“I aim to inspire young women to pursue their passions in sports while balancing their educational and personal lives,” she said.

“Having successfully navigated my own journey … I believe my experiences can serve as a powerful testament to what is achievable.”

A defining moment in Al-Masri’s career came with the challenge of establishing her name on the international stage, overcoming issues such as unfair judging.

“Despite these challenges, my determination only grew stronger,” she said. “With the guidance and expertise of my father, I developed a unique training plan which enabled me to achieve significant milestones, including winning the first Saudi bronze medal in the Under-23 European Championships in 2023. This was a groundbreaking accomplishment for Saudi fencers in Europe.”

Looking ahead to the 2024/25 season, Al-Masri is eager to engage with the FISU Student Ambassadors Program.

“I look forward to collaborating on group proposals, participating in educational webinars, celebrating the International Day of University Sport, and presenting our action plans,” she said. “This structured approach will empower me to support female athletes and contribute effectively to the broader student-athlete community.”

The support from her community and mentors has been pivotal.

“The Saudi University Sports Federation, particularly Dr. Professor Khalid Al-Muzaini and Salma Ibrahim, has played a crucial role in my development,” she said. “I am also grateful to my coach, Fawad Al-Nasiri, for selecting me as the first Saudi female athlete to represent our country at the 2023 Summer Universiade in China. Their influence has been profound, motivating me to strive for greater heights.”

And to young girls in Saudi Arabia interested in sports, Al-Masri advised: “Embrace every opportunity that comes your way, and don’t shy away from challenges. Surround yourselves with supportive mentors and friends who believe in you and encourage your growth. Your dreams and aspirations are valid, and you have the potential to achieve greatness in the world of sports.”


The silent gamer: How Xzit Thamer captivated a global audience through silent acting

The silent gamer: How Xzit Thamer captivated a global audience through silent acting
Updated 07 October 2024
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The silent gamer: How Xzit Thamer captivated a global audience through silent acting

The silent gamer: How Xzit Thamer captivated a global audience through silent acting

RIYADH: In the world of content creation, few have managed to carve out a niche as distinctive as Saudi gamer Xzit Thamer. Known for his innovative approach to silent acting, Thamer has attracted a global following by relying solely on physical comedy and expressive gestures rather than verbal communication.

His ability to connect with audiences across various cultures has set him apart in the crowded gaming landscape.

Xzit Thamer’s journey began in 2019 and his videos gained traction shortly afterwards, garnering millions of views during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. As an introvert, he found solace in creating content while many were confined to their homes.

“When corona hit, I was happy,” he said. “I used this energy to create my content. The boom in my popularity coincided with lockdown, and I focused on being different from typical gamer content creators.” His approach resonated with viewers who were looking for light-hearted entertainment during challenging times.

Thamer describes his style as akin to that of Mr. Bean, the beloved character known for his slapstick humor and minimal dialogue. “I have many followers from the US, UK, Spain and Brazil because I don’t talk,” he said.

“I always wanted to be known globally, and I didn’t want to be like other gamers who only stream. I wanted to be different.” His commitment to silent acting has allowed him to reach a diverse audience, transcending language barriers and cultural differences.

Xzit Thamer captivating his audience with silent comedy, blending gaming and physical humor for a global fanbase. (Supplied)

One of Thamer’s primary goals is to increase the percentage of people who play video games. He believes that silent acting can attract those who might not typically engage with gaming content.

Thamer described how he aspires to have an impact across the world with his content. This ambition is evident in his work as he combines visual humor with gaming themes, creating a brand that appeals to both gamers and casual viewers alike.

On social media, Thamer operates under two distinct personas. The first is dedicated to his silent acting, where he uses exaggerated expressions and physical comedy to convey emotions and humor. The second persona focuses on gaming and anime pack openings, where he speaks Arabic and engages with fans in a more traditional format. “Some people don’t know I’m the same person on both channels because my energy is different,” he said, laughing. “Most people didn’t know I was Arab.”

Anime pack opening has become a significant part of Thamer’s content since he ventured into this area in 2022. The activity involves unboxing collectible cards items related to anime. The excitement of revealing rare or valuable cards keeps viewers engaged, turning each video into a thrilling experience. Thamer often opens packs from popular franchises such as Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh, beloved by fans of all ages.

The interaction during these pack openings is electric. Thamer’s dynamic presence draws in audiences, whether he is revealing a rare card or sharing his enthusiasm for a new collectible. “Kids get really excited when I open the packs,” he said, emphasizing the joy he brings to his viewers. This live interaction has helped him to build a loyal following, as fans eagerly anticipate his next reveal.  

Thamer’s approach caught the attention of the esports community, leading to an exciting opportunity at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. There, he was granted his own activity focused on anime pack openings at Boulevard Riyadh City. This event allowed him to engage with fans in person, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the content creation space. “It was an exciting event where I interacted with my audience and opened packs in front of them,” he said. The energy and excitement at the event showcased his ability to connect with fans on a personal level.

As a content creator, Xzit Thamer has embraced the challenges and opportunities that come with his dual personas. Balancing silent acting with traditional gaming commentary requires creativity and adaptability. “I had to learn how to engage my audience in different ways,” he said. His versatility enables him to appeal to a broader audience while staying true to his own style.   

Xzit Thamer captivating his audience with silent comedy, blending gaming and physical humor for a global fanbase. (Supplied)

The impact of his work extends beyond mere entertainment; Thamer has become a role model for aspiring content creators in Saudi Arabia and beyond. His experience demonstrates that innovation and authenticity can lead to success in the digital world. By combining silent acting with gaming, he has crafted a distinctive identity that resonates with viewers across the world.   

https://www.instagram.com/xzit_thamer/

Looking ahead, Thamer is focused on expanding his reach and continuing to innovate within his content creation. His ambition to increase the gaming community’s visibility and engagement remains a driving force in his work.   

In an increasingly crowded digital landscape, Xzit Thamer has proven that sometimes, less is more. His silent yet expressive approach to content creation captures the essence of universal humor, allowing him to connect with fans around the world. As he continues to grow his brand and explore new avenues within the gaming community, there is no doubt that Xzit Thamer will leave an indelible mark on the world of content creation.


Riyadh dates exhibition drawing huge crowds

Riyadh dates exhibition drawing huge crowds
Updated 07 October 2024
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Riyadh dates exhibition drawing huge crowds

Riyadh dates exhibition drawing huge crowds

RIYADH: A dates exhibition in Riyadh has attracted more than 113,000 visitors since launching in August.

The third seasonal dates exhibition is organized by the National Company for Agricultural Services at Al-Rabwah markets in the Saudi capital. It runs until Oct. 31.

The event showcases a wide variety of high-quality local dates from across Saudi Arabia, receiving dozens of tonnes of the fruit daily.

More than 60 producers and marketers are taking part in the exhibition, displaying top date products and benefiting from commercial opportunities, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The exhibition offers technical solutions for date marketing, including online ordering via specialized stores. Visitors can also enjoy artistic and entertainment events hosted in pavilions at the market.

Riyadh leads the Kingdom in date production, with the region producing 436,000 of the country’s annual 1.6 million-tonne yield of the fruit.

Saudi Arabia has a positive trade balance in the date industry, with a self-sufficiency rate of 124 percent.

As the Kingdom strengthens its global leadership in date production, the Riyadh exhibition supports sustainable growth and fosters economic opportunities in agriculture.


Ministry honors graduates of artificial intelligence course

Ministry honors graduates of artificial intelligence course
Updated 07 October 2024
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Ministry honors graduates of artificial intelligence course

Ministry honors graduates of artificial intelligence course

RIYADH: The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has honored graduates of a specialized training program designed to cultivate talent in artificial intelligence and machine learning, which was held in collaboration with Google Cloud at its headquarters in the US.

Deputy Minister for Future Jobs and Capabilities Ibrahem Al-Nasser acknowledged the graduates’ dedication and achievements throughout the program. 

The training covered the latest AI technologies and their practical applications in key sectors including healthcare, industry and education. 

This initiative further solidifies the Kingdom’s position as a frontrunner in global digital innovation, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

In collaboration with Google Cloud, the program aligns with the ministry’s strategy to foster digital innovation by equipping participants with the skills needed to lead future technological endeavors.

It aims to provide local talent with opportunities to contribute actively to machine learning- and AI-driven fields, empowering them to play pivotal roles in the nation’s technological progress.


KSrelief delivers food aid to Sudan, Yemen

KSrelief delivers food aid to Sudan, Yemen
Updated 07 October 2024
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KSrelief delivers food aid to Sudan, Yemen

KSrelief delivers food aid to Sudan, Yemen

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has delivered food aid to thousands of people in Yemen and Sudan, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

On Sunday, 1,266 food parcels were delivered to Khanfar district in Yemen’s Abyan Governorate, benefiting 8,862 people from 1,266 families.

In Al-Galabat Al-Gharbyah, Gedaref State, Sudan, 1,500 food parcels were delivered to 7,621 people.

The deliveries are part of KSrelief’s work to help those most in need across the two countries.


Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief continues volunteer surgery program

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief continues volunteer surgery program
Updated 07 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief continues volunteer surgery program

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief continues volunteer surgery program
  • Medical services were provided for scores of patients at the Kidney Dialysis Center in Al-Ghaydah, Al-Mahrah Governorate, Yemen
  • The medical team, affiliated with KSrelief, performed 45 specialized operations during the campaign

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has continued its voluntary medical work around the globe, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Medical services were provided for scores of patients at the Kidney Dialysis Center in Al-Ghaydah, Al-Mahrah Governorate, Yemen.

During September, 126 patients were served.

Among them, 54 underwent 446 scheduled dialysis sessions and six emergency sessions, while 75 patients received medical examinations and consultations at the clinic.

Of the 126 patients, 46 percent were male and 54 percent were female, with 16 percent being displaced individuals, 83 percent residents, and 1 percent refugees.

Meanwhile, mobile medical clinics operated in Yemen’s Harad district, in the governorate of Hajjah, providing medical services to 226 beneficiaries from Sept. 11 to 17, 2024.

During this period, the epidemic disease control clinic treated 113 patients, the emergency clinic 63, the internal medicine clinic 33, and the reproductive health clinic 15.

In terms of ancillary services, 61 people accessed the nursing services clinic, and waste disposal activities were conducted twice. Furthermore, seven beneficiaries were treated at the surgery and dressing clinic. The clinics also dispensed medications to 217 patients.

In San Salvador, El Salvador, a voluntary medical project for vascular surgery and interventional catheterization was concluded on Friday.

The project ran from Sept. 26 to Oct. 3, 2024.

The medical team, affiliated with KSrelief, performed 45 specialized operations during the campaign.

Eight volunteers from various medical specialties participated.

In Medan, Indonesia, Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, KSrelief supervisor-general, said the center implemented a voluntary open-heart surgery project for adults.

Running from Oct. 1 to 8, 2024, the project involved 15 volunteers from various medical specialties.

Since the campaign began, KSrelief’s medical team has completed three open-heart operations.