Toxic Drug Crisis Impact - The toxic drug crisis in British Columbia has claimed almost 15,000 lives since 2016 [1] - Unregulated drug toxicity is the leading cause of death for people in BC aged 10 to 59 [2] - A 2019 report indicated a 255% increase in overdoses among South Asians in the Fraser Health region, nearly a twofold increase compared to non-South Asians [4] Marginalized Communities - The crisis disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, particularly the South Asian community, due to systemic neglect [3] - Stigma and shame within the South Asian community hinder individuals from seeking help and sharing their stories [5] Fentanyl Crisis - Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, is a major contributor to overdoses, accounting for almost 80% of overdoses across Canada [10][11] - Fentanyl addiction requires medication and extensive support beyond what individuals can typically access [13] Community Support & Intervention - Soda (Students Overcoming Substance Use Disorder and Addiction Society of Canada) is a grassroots nonprofit addressing the toxic drug crisis's impact on the South Asian community [15] - Soda provides harm reduction training in Punjabi, Hindi, and English, connecting individuals with mental health and substance use services [16] Recovery & Lived Experience - Pervinder Singh's story highlights the transformative power of community support in overcoming addiction and inspiring others [7][21] - Lived experiences, like Pervinder's, should be recognized as expertise and integrated into policy and program development for cultural sensitivity [29] Data & Policy Recommendations - Advocate for better, accurate, and disaggregated data on populations differentially impacted by the toxic drug crisis [29]

Societal Perceptions of Artists - Society often views artistic careers with skepticism due to concerns about financial success and academic recognition [4][5] - Cultural and familial expectations, particularly in non-Western cultures, can pressure individuals to pursue more "respectable" careers [6][7] - The categorization of people into "smart" versus "creative" boxes limits perceptions and career choices [10][11] The Value and Purpose of Art - Art is essential for human expression, mirroring nature, and driving societal change [17] - Art provides people with a reason to survive, complementing the survival needs met by professions like medicine and law [18] - Art's unique value lies in its irreplaceable human expression, skill, and time investment, which cannot be replicated by AI [19] Call for Perspective Shift - Society should encourage individuals to pursue art without imposing negative judgments based on career stereotypes [20] - Perspectives on art need to evolve to recognize its importance in impacting individuals and the world [20]

[Music] Mother's Day. I see all of you smiling in the audience. No, I am not talking about that Mother's Day.You know, the one that comes with the flowers and the hugs. Not that one. Today, I am talking about Zambia's Mother's Day leave.A day that any woman can take off work. No medical report required. Zambia is one of only seven countries in the whole world that has a ministration leave policy.In Zambia, we call this day Mother's Day. The name itself is a euphemism. Not necessarily because Mother's Day is ...

[Music] Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome aboard TEDex Airlines. As we head towards our beautiful destination, Musket, Oman, please ensure your seat belts are fastened, your seatbacks are upright, and your tray tables are stowed.In case of an emergency, oxygen masks will drop down from the ceiling. Remember to secure your own mask before assisting others. We've all heard this announcement countless times.Remember to secure your own mask before assisting others. It makes sense, right. You can't h ...