Sydney and Kuala Lumpur events unite world-leading experts as Mitochondrial Health gains recognition as a defining force in healthy ageing, and healthspanResearchers and clinicians identify Ubiquinol as a foundational nutrient in the Mitoceuticals category, supporting mitochondrial function throughout life, from preconception to healthy ageingSYDNEY, June 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The inaugural global Mitochondrial Health Summit has marked a milestone for healthcare, positioning Mitochondrial Health at the forefront of the growing movement: advancing healthspan through science beginning at the cellular level. Held in Sydney (26 June), with a simultaneous satellite event in Kuala Lumpur, the Summit attracted 250+ delegates across complementary medicine, nutrition, pharmacy, education and research, reflecting growing interest in the role of mitochondrial function in lifelong health.The Summit arrives at a pivotal moment for healthcare. As populations worldwide seek healthy ageing strategies, the conversation is shifting upstream towards the biological mechanisms underpinning health. At the centre are the mitochondria – the body's 'cellular powerhouses', which generate the energy required for organs, tissues and biological systems to function effectively.Mitochondrial health is supported by Ubiquinol, a naturally occurring, lipid-soluble antioxidant which helps reduce cellular damage, and supports wellbeing through life stages from pre-conception to ageing, including cardiovascular health, cognition, women's health, energy levels and general health. However, Ubiquinol levels decline naturally from the age of 20+.Across presentations spanning cardiology, reproductive health, women's health, complementary medicine, pharmacy and nutrition, a common theme emerged: the future of healthcare will be shaped by our understanding of sub-cellular health."For over four decades, Kaneka has invested in advancing mitochondrial health science because we believe it sits at the very core of human wellbeing," says Tsuyoshi Takakuwa, Head of Marketing and Sales Team (APAC), Supplemental Nutrition Business Division, Kaneka Corporation."We believe the age of 'mitoceuticals' has arrived, mitochondrial health will become one of the defining healthcare conversations of the next decade", added Takakuwa.As the underwriting sponsor of the Summit, Kaneka Ubiquinol™ further strengthened its position at the forefront of the mitochondrial health sector.KEY HIGHLIGHTS The Upstream Shift – across cardiology, women's health, reproductive health and healthy ageing, a recurring theme was the growing scientific interest in the role of mitochondrial function across multiple areas of health as foundational. Research is contributing to the understanding of how mitochondrial biology may be involved in physiological pathways, supporting ongoing investigation into its relevance for clinical practice.The Gut-Mitochondria Axis – preliminary evidence suggests the intricate communication between the gut microbiome and mitochondrial function, revealing potential implications for metabolic health, immune regulation, inflammation, energy production.The 'Age of Mitoceuticals' – nutrients key to mitochondrial energy production, including Ubiquinol, acknowledged as foundational components of healthspan strategies for mitochondrial support, vitality, resilience and healthy ageing through targeted nutritional and clinical approaches.Lifetime Scientific Excellence in Ubiquinol Research awarded to Dr Kazunori Hosoe PhD, Chief Scientist, Kaneka Ubiquinol™, for 50+ years of CoQ10 and Ubiquinol research. His contributions have helped establish a scientific foundation that continues to shape mitochondrial research and clinical practice globally.ABOUT THE GLOBAL MITOCHONDRIAL HEALTH SUMMIT 2026An international healthcare professional education platform dedicated to advancing scientific understanding and clinical application of mitochondrial health, cellular health and healthy ageing.The faculty included internationally respected experts Dr Olivia Lesslar, Dr Ross Walker, Dr Christabelle Yeoh, Dr Denise Furness PhD, Dr Leah Hechtman PhD, Rhiannon Hardingham, Gerald Quigley, Bobby Mehta and Prof. Dr Mogana Sundari Rajagopal, reflecting the increasingly multidisciplinary nature of mitochondrial science.ABOUT KANEKA UBIQUINOL™ Kaneka Corporation is the sole global innovative manufacturer of clinically researched bioidentical Ubiquinol, manufactured with an award-winning Japanese natural fermentation process. Supported by 100+ scientific studies, 80+ patents and 45+ years of research, antioxidant-active Ubiquinol supports mitochondrial health, cardiovascular health, cognition, women's health, reproductive health, energy and wellbeing. Listed in 50+ countries in 1,000+ nutraceutical brands since 2006, with certifications including HALAL, GRAS, HACCP, NDI, KOSHER, GMP, ISO 14001, ISO 22000, Non-GMO and OSHMS.All speakers declare receipt of an honorarium from Kaneka Ubiquinol™ APAC for the preparation and delivery of the Mitochondrial Health Summit 2026 presentation. Content is the speakers' own work and was developed independently without commercial influence.References available on request. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/3001643/MHS26_293.jpgPhoto - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/3001642/MHSdinner_200__1.jpgLogo -  https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/3001644/MHS_with_Kaneka_Ubiquinol_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-mitochondrial-health-summit-2026-positions-mitochondrial-health-as-the-foundation-of-healthspan-302813136.html

NEW YORK, June 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ford Foundation announced today the election of Ursula Burns as the new chair of its Board of Trustees. Burns will become the 13th board chair of the foundation, succeeding Dr. Francisco Cigarroa. She is the first African American woman to serve as board chair in the Ford Foundation's 90-year history. Burns joined the board in 2015 and serves as chair of the Audit Committee. She is also a member of the Executive Committee. Recognized by Forbes and Fortune magazines as one of the most influential women in the world, Burns is a founder and Investment Committee member of the private equity firm Integrum and the non-executive chairman of Teneo Holdings LLC. Previously, she served as the chairman and CEO of VEON from 2018 to 2020. In 2009, Burns became the chairman and CEO of the Xerox Corporation and the first African American woman to head a Fortune 500 company. During her tenure at Xerox, Burns led the largest acquisition in the company's history, catapulting its presence in the global services market.Cigarroa will remain on the board through October 2026 after serving with distinction as chair for eight years."Dr. Francisco Cigarroa has served the Ford Foundation with extraordinary dedication during a period of significant change for our world and our work. We are forever grateful to Francisco for his humanity, integrity, kindness, and wisdom," said Heather Gerken, president of the Ford Foundation. "As we look forward, I can think of no better leader to help guide the foundation toward its second century than Ursula Burns. She brings singular experience and expertise, clear-eyed judgment, and a deep commitment to the values that have long defined our institution. I am thrilled and grateful to partner with her as we continue to bolster democratic values and institutions, protect the rule of law, and advance human dignity around the world."In 2009, Burns was appointed by President Barack Obama to lead the White House national program on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. She also served as vice chair and chair of the President's Export Council. In February 2022, Burns joined the U.S. Department of Commerce's Advisory Council on Supply Chain Competitiveness as vice chair. Burns is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the G7 Gender Equity Advisory Council."It is a profound honor to receive the baton of leadership from Dr. Francisco Cigarroa, whose stewardship immensely strengthened the Ford Foundation and its global impact," said Ursula Burns. "And I am particularly energized and inspired by this opportunity to collaborate with Heather and our trustees, staff, and community at this pivotal time of heightened responsibility and possibility."A native New Yorker, Burns holds a master's degree in mechanical engineering from Columbia University and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the Polytechnic Institute of New York University. She also holds board positions on Uber Technologies Inc., Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Corporation, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Mayo Clinic, among others.Ford Foundation trustees are elected by the board and serve up to two six-year terms. Trustees approve the foundation's program strategy and set broad policies on grantmaking, investments, and governance. The foundation's trustees come from around the world and have extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and social justice, law, government, higher education, business and finance, and technology.The Ford FoundationThe Ford Foundation is an independent organization working to address inequality and build a future grounded in justice. For 90 years, it has supported visionaries on the frontlines of social change worldwide, guided by its mission to strengthen democratic values, reduce poverty and injustice, promote international cooperation, and advance human achievement. Today, with an endowment of $16 billion, the foundation has headquarters in New York and 10 regional offices across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Learn more at www.fordfoundation.org.Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2068348/FORD_FOUNDATION__Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ursula-burns-founder-of-integrum-chairwoman-of-teneo-and-former-ceo-of-xerox-corporation-elected-as-new-chair-of-the-ford-foundation-board-of-trustees-302806753.html

Authored by Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa, Principal Lead – Medical and Precision Oncology, Apollo Athenaa, the handbook aims to empower caregivers with practical guidance, emotional support, and clinical insights throughout the cancer journeyNEW DELHI, June 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Marking Cancer Survivors Month and reinforcing the importance of holistic cancer care, Apollo Athenaa, Asia's first comprehensive cancer centre dedicated exclusively to women, marked a significant step in India's oncology support landscape with the launch of Holding Hope: A Handbook for Cancer Caregivers—India's first dedicated resource designed exclusively to support individuals caring for loved ones with cancer. While cancer survivorship is often celebrated through the resilience and recovery of patients, the journey is rarely undertaken alone. Behind every survivor is a network of family members and caregivers who provide emotional, physical, logistical, and financial support throughout diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and beyond. Data indicates that 95 per cent of cancer patients in India have at least one primary caregiver; 57 per cent are supported by three to four caregivers, and 23 per cent have five to seven individuals involved in their care1. Yet despite their critical role, caregivers often navigate this demanding responsibility without access to structured guidance or dedicated support.Recognising this unmet need, Holding Hope: A Handbook for Cancer Caregivers has been authored by Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa, Principal Lead – Medical and Precision Oncology, Apollo Athenaa, along with Dr. Hussain Shaik, Associate Consultant – Medical Oncology, Apollo Athenaa. Drawing on years of clinical experience and patient interactions, the handbook serves as a practical companion for caregivers, offering actionable guidance on managing treatment journeys, navigating difficult conversations, supporting emotional well-being, understanding medical decisions, and prioritising self-care.Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa, Principal Lead, Medical and Precision Oncology, Apollo Athenaa said, "When we celebrate cancer survivors, it is equally important to acknowledge the caregivers who stand beside them through every treatment cycle, every setback, and every milestone. With over 15 lakh new cancer cases reported in India in 20242, the number of families navigating the complexities of cancer care continues to grow. Caregivers are often the silent pillars of strength in a patient's journey, yet many feel unprepared for the emotional and practical challenges that come with the role. Through Holding Hope, we wanted to create a trusted resource that equips caregivers with knowledge, confidence, and reassurance at every stage of the cancer journey."Sharing his experience as a caregiver, Mr. Sudesh, who has supported his wife through her cancer journey said, "When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, caregivers often find themselves navigating uncertainty, difficult decisions, and emotional challenges with little guidance. The launch of Holding Hope is a welcome initiative. Its practical advice on managing treatment, understanding medical decisions, supporting emotional well-being, and prioritising self-care will help many caregivers like me feel more informed, prepared, and supported."Highlighting the importance of equipping caregivers with the right knowledge and support, Dr. Hussain Shaik, Associate Consultant, Medical Oncology, Apollo Athenaa added, "Caregivers play a vital role in the cancer journey, often serving as the bridge between patients and healthcare teams. However, many find themselves navigating complex medical decisions, treatment-related challenges, and emotional stress with little formal guidance." This handbook combines evidence-based medical information with practical caregiving strategies and real-life experiences to help caregivers better understand their role and foster stronger communication with patients and clinicians. Importantly, it also addresses an often-overlooked aspect of caregiving, the need for caregivers to prioritise their own physical and emotional well-being while supporting their loved ones.The launch of Holding Hope reflects Apollo Athenaa's broader vision of advancing patient-centred and family-centred cancer care. By placing caregivers at the heart of the oncology continuum, the initiative seeks to strengthen support systems that contribute meaningfully to patient outcomes, quality of life, and long-term survivorship.As conversations around cancer care continue to evolve, Apollo Athenaa hopes that Holding Hope will encourage greater recognition of caregivers and foster a more compassionate, informed, and inclusive approach to cancer survivorship in India.1 Profile of cancer caregivers among adult Indian rural cancer patients: A prospective survey. | Journal of Clinical Oncology 2 https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/185/AU3233_xEZ9oE.pdf?source=pqalsAbout Apollo AthenaaApollo Athenaa, a unit of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, is Asia's first dedicated cancer centre for women, rooted in empathy and powered by science. It is not just a facility—it's a mission. Apollo Athenaa is envisioned as a safe, specialised space exclusively for women, combining cutting-edge oncology expertise with compassion, dignity, and privacy. Women are the cornerstones of families and communities, and their health directly impacts the strength of the nation. Recognising the need for timely, specialised, and compassionate care, Apollo has taken a pioneering step forward. Apollo Athenaa provides comprehensive women-focused cancer care, from preventive screenings and advanced diagnostics to surgical oncology, breast oncoplasty, fertility preservation, and reconstructive care. Supported by multidisciplinary expertise and precision oncology, the centre also offers nutrition, physiotherapy, onco-psychology, and palliative care, ensuring a continuum of services that place women's health, dignity, and well-being at the forefront. Log on to: https://www.apollohospitals.com/hospitals/apollo-athenaa-womens-cancer-centre  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/apollo-athenaa-launches-holding-hope-indias-first-dedicated-handbook-for-cancer-caregivers-during-national-cancer-survivors-month-302801636.html

Persistent barriers related to affordability, skills and safety concerns continue to limit women's digital inclusion in low- and middle-income countriesLONDON, June 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The gender gap in mobile internet adoption narrowed slightly in 2025 according to the 'Mobile Gender Gap Report 2026,' published today by the GSMA. However, progress remains slow and uneven. Women across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are still 12% less likely to use mobile internet than men. This translates to 200 million fewer women than men, with the total figure for women not using mobile internet in LMICs sitting at 810 million.   Geographic disparities persist  Of the 810 million women still not using mobile internet in LMICs, more than two thirds live in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, the regions with the widest gender gaps in mobile internet adoption, at 26% and 25%, respectively. The gender gap also tends to be two to three times wider in rural areas compared to urban areas across LMICs. Barriers to getting online  The primary way people in LMICs access the internet is via mobile phones. Yet the gender gap in smartphone ownership in LMICs is 13%; around 210 million fewer women than men owning smartphones. The top barriers are affordability (primarily of handsets), literacy and digital skills. Women are disproportionality affected by these barriers, due to social norms and structural inequalities such as lower education and income.  Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion at the GSMA, said, "While there has been a slow narrowing of the mobile gender gap since 2022, much more is needed to address persistent and significant gender gaps in mobile internet adoption and use. We live in an increasingly digital world and technologies such as AI are creating greater digital divides and inequities, elevating the need to ensure digital inclusion for all."Closing the mobile gender gap  From 2023 to 2030, closing the gender gap in mobile internet adoption in LMICs could add $1.3 trillion in GDP. Access to mobile internet can transform women's lives, giving them greater resilience in the face of economic, climate and political shocks.More than 50 mobile operators have signed up to the GSMA Connected Women Commitment Initiative, to accelerate women's digital and financial inclusion, reaching over 90 million additional women with mobile internet or mobile money services since 2016.   View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/810-million-women-still-not-using-mobile-internet-in-low--and-middle-income-countries-compared-to-595-million-men-302796819.html

KOLKATA, India, June 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- CRIF India, part of the global CRIF network, has launched the first regional chapter of 'Credit Goes to HER' in Kolkata, West Bengal, focused on strengthening women's leadership and influence in the credit ecosystem.  The initiative, launched in March this year is designed to drive grassroots impact by building a community of women professionals who are both shaping credit and enabling access to credit for women across segments. This comes at a time when women are playing an increasingly significant role in India's formal credit economy yet remain underrepresented in leadership roles that shape credit policies and products. Insights show that nationally, women-led business loans have grown by 61.1%, and women now account for 41% of new-to-credit borrowers (up from 33% two years ago). Women borrowers also demonstrate strong credit behaviour, with lower delinquency levels compared to men, and a rising presence in secured lending segments. 'Credit Goes to HER' seeks to build on this momentum by bringing together women professionals across lending, risk, analytics, NBFCs, fintech, and policy, creating a platform to amplify their voice and participation in shaping the future of credit.Kolkata has been chosen for the first regional chapter given Eastern India's robust credit growth and lending landscape. West Bengal's retail credit market witnessed healthy growth as of March 2026, with total retail loans rising 17.2% YoY to ₹583.9K crore, while active loans grew 8.9% YoY to 332 lakh accounts. Consumption loans stood at ₹368.4K crore, up 13% YoY, led by strong growth in Gold Loans (+54.1% YoY) and Sole-proprietor Loans (+25.2% YoY).The Kolkata chapter will serve as a local arm of the community platform for women across banks, NBFCs, fintechs, and other financial services to share knowledge, seek mentorship and collaborate on more inclusive credit practices. The launch event in Kolkata saw participation from senior women leaders of the region's BFSI sector, including Nina Bairagi (Deputy General Manager, State Bank of India), Arpita Sen (Senior Vice President, Bandhan Bank), Jyoti Sharma (General Manager, UCO Bank), and Sharoni Pal (Head of Credit, Arohan Financial Services Limited).Join the community: (5) Credit Goes To HER - Women in Credit, Credit for Women (Curated by CRIF India) | Groups | LinkedInAbout CRIF: CRIF India is a leading provider of credit information, business intelligence, analytics, software and digital solutions for banks, financial institutions, NBFCs, insurance companies, telecom providers, MSMEs, corporates, and consumers across India. Through its group entities, including CRIF High Mark Credit Information Services Private Limited and CRIF Solutions, CRIF India supports responsible lending, financial inclusion, and data-driven decision-making.Licensed by the Reserve Bank of India under the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act, 2005, CRIF High Mark operates one of India's leading credit bureaus with data contributions from over 5,000 member institutions. Combining advanced analytics, decisioning platforms, business information, and digital solutions, CRIF India enables organizations to make faster, smarter, and more informed decisions across the customer lifecycle while contributing to a more transparent and inclusive financial ecosystem.Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2991757/CRIF_India_Kolkata.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/crif-india-launches-kolkata-chapter-of-credit-goes-to-her-to-empower-women-in-the-credit-ecosystem-302786885.html