This year’s competition was launched on International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March. Over 300 girls aged 15-18 years old submitted entries on the International Women’s Day 2025 theme “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment”.

They answered the question: “If you were an Ambassador for a Day, what actions would you take to accelerate gender equality including equal rights, power and opportunities?’’

A huge thank you to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the British Council, Arab and Foreign Ambassadors, Lebanese Diplomats and UN Heads of Mission for supporting the initiative.

The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell said:

Congratulations to 30 remarkable young girls whose creative and insightful entries inspired us. Your voices are powerful and your impact is real. Be proud of this incredible achievement — young leaders like you are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for Lebanon.

The Canadian Ambassador to Lebanon, Stefanie McCollum said:

Inclusion is not limited to questions of gender equality. Canada believes that inclusion means taking into account the experiences of people facing discrimination based on gender, income, race, religion, language, ability and age, in everything that we do. I’m hopeful that you will carry on values of diversity and inclusion as you pursue your education, and eventually your careers.

The Jordanian Ambassador to Lebanon, Walid Al Hadid said:

Empowering women is not only a matter of justice, but a cornerstone of resilient and prosperous societies. No nation can truly thrive when half of its voices remain unheard. The creativity and determination shown by the 30 young participants reflect a spirit we deeply value, and one that resonates with Jordan’s continued efforts to promote rights, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Your voices matter, and I am confident you will help shape a more just and inclusive future.

This visit underscores the UK’s commitment to strengthening LAF capabilities in extending state authority over its border with Syria, countering smuggling activities, and safeguarding local communities.

 During the visit, Ambassador Cowell met with military and local officials. The Ambassador and the Mokhtar of Yanta Riad Saab and other local citizens visited a solar-powered water pumping station as part of initiatives aimed at strengthening civil-military cooperation, within areas of operation for the Land Border Regiments (LBRs).

 Following his visit Ambassador Cowell said:

The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and security. Our partnership with the Lebanese Armed Forces is crucial in helping to maintain stability across Lebanon, and protecting the livelihoods of those living near the border.

I am proud of our support and the UK’s role as a key partner to the LAF; through the UK Integrated Security Fund we have supported the establishment of the Land Border Regiments (LBRs) on the border with Syria since 2013 and have provided over £115m worth of assistance to the LAF.

The Land Border Regiments have helped reinforce the security of this border and the authority of the Lebanese State’s authority over these areas.

In Yanta, I was impressed to see the solar-powered water pumping station project benefiting hundreds in the area. This project delivers a sustainable, environmentally friendly solution to the water supply needs of the Yanta community. An excellent example of the LAF and communities coming together.

In a further demonstration of the government’s commitment to free trade and responding to business need, the UK Global Tariff will be temporarily suspended on 89 products saving UK businesses up and down the country at least £17 million a year.

The products include plywood and plastics, which are essential for construction – making life easier for chippies all over the country.

Working in partnership with industry, the government has decided to suspend import tariffs on a whole range of products to lower costs for businesses, tariffs will now be cut to zero until July 2027.

The savings to businesses on products such as pasta, fruit juices, coconut oil and pine nuts could be passed onto consumers just in time for the summer season, meaning lower food prices in supermarkets, restaurants and pubs.

Products including agave syrup, often used in margaritas, and plant bulbs will also see tariffs removed meaning keen cocktail-makers and amateur gardeners could enjoy lowered costs as the warmer weather approaches.

These changes will support key growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing and clean energy to compete with international rivals, supporting the Government’s Industrial Strategy with the Plan for Change.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Free and open trade grows economies, lowers prices and helps businesses to sell to the world, which is why we’re cutting tariffs on a range of products.

From food to furniture, this will reduce the cost of everyday items for businesses, with savings hopefully passed onto consumers.

As we face a new era of global trade, this government is going further faster to make Britain the best country to do business, delivering on our Plan for Change. These suspensions are just another example of that.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

In a changing world we know families are anxious about the cost of living, and businesses uncertain about their future. That’s why we’ve announced lower prices on imports of everyday essentials – helping businesses to thrive and pass on savings to customers.

Through our Plan for Change we’re supporting British business and putting more money in people’s pockets.

The UK Global Tariff applies to goods entering the UK that do not qualify for preferential treatment under, for example, a free trade agreement.

Businesses across the UK apply for temporary suspensions on a regular basis by providing evidence of the benefits to themselves, their sector and the wider economy.

CBI Europe and International Director Sean McGuire:

In the face of an uncertain and unpredictable global trading environment, government should be commended for suspending import duties on an array of products. Measures like these will be important for reducing the financial pressures on firms and help to drive growth for businesses of all sizes across the country.

The UK has already reduced tariffs on certain imported goods, benefitting British consumers with better choice, quality and prices on products like fruit juices from Peru and vacuum cleaners from Malaysia.

The Government is going further and faster in negotiating trade deals with partners including India, the Gulf Cooperation Council, South Korea and Switzerland which will unlock new opportunities for businesses, support jobs, and boost wages.

These measures come as the government acts swiftly to protect UK businesses and workers in a new era of global trade, through increasing flexibility on the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, cutting the red tape and bureaucracy that slows down clinical trials in the life sciences sector, investing up to £600 million in a new Health Data Research Service and backing a £30 million package to support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport which is expected to support 5,000 jobs and boost the economy by £5 billion.

Ministers from the UK and the Philippines met in London for trade talks under the first Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting.

The Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia and has the second largest population in Southeast Asia, presenting huge opportunities for British businesses. The JETCO aims to upgrade our bilateral trade relationship, currently worth £2.8 billion annually.

At today’s meeting, Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander and Philippine Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty of the Department of Trade and Industry agreed to pursue closer cooperation and increased trade across sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture and technology.

They also committed to progressing work towards a government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership that will unlock up to £5 billion of potential financing from UK Export Finance (UKEF) to support the delivery of sustainable public infrastructure and improve access to UK expertise and technology in the Philippines.

Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander MP said:

Today’s talks signify an important new chapter in our trading relationship with the Philippines, one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

Deepening our trade with partners like the Philippines and showing that the UK is open for business in Asia is vital for this Government’s mission to deliver economic growth.

I look forward to working with the Philippines and to deliver trading opportunities that will benefit both our economies.

Agriculture is an important area for bilateral trade – the Philippines is the fourth largest export market for UK pork after the EU, US, and China.

Ministers highlighted investment opportunities in the Philippines for UK agricultural companies and promoted imports of UK meat in light of the recent removal of bans on beef and poultry exports from the UK, worth £80 million over five years.

The talks are part of the government’s mission to deliver economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

The International Meat Trade Association (MTA) said:

MTA welcomes the inaugural JETCO between the UK & the Philippines which will deepen our trading relationship with an important partner.

We were delighted that last year the Philippines lifted the ban on UK poultry meat, as well as lifting the temporary ban on UK beef.

We hope the trade partnership between our countries can continue to grow from strength to strength.

Opportunities in offshore renewable energy featured heavily in discussions. In 2024, the UK was the largest single investor in the Philippines, driven mainly by investments in renewables.

Such opportunities for UK companies were enhanced in 2022 with the removal of foreign equity restrictions for renewable energy companies.

The JETCO also celebrated growing digital and tech trade and emphasised the UK’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its economic development, including through the upcoming launch of an Export Handbook for Philippine businesses in the processed agrifood and fish sectors.

Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer, will today pledge up to £160 million of UK funding – delivered by trusted UN and NGO partners on the ground – to help provide Syrians with critical water, food, healthcare and education in 2025 at the Annual Syria Pledging Conference, hosted by the EU in Brussels.

Ensuring stability in Syria and the wider region is critical for UK national security, which is the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change.

In his speech at the conference, which will be attended by members of the international community and the Syrian interim authorities, the Minister will urge the Syrian authorities to ensure the recent violence witnessed in Syria never happens again, reiterating the importance of a properly representative and inclusive political transition.

Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer said:

A stable Syria is vital for ensuring our security at home and abroad, which is critical for delivering our Plan for Change. Today’s pledge of up to £160m underlines our commitment to helping Syrians stabilise and rebuild their country, as well as provide lifesaving aid for Syrians hosted generously in partner countries.

This is a critical moment for Syria. The violence in coastal areas earlier this month was horrific. The interim authorities must demonstrate their intent to promote stability, protect minorities and govern in the interests of all Syrians. We welcome the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the interim authorities as an important step in this direction.

At the conference, the Minister will welcome last week’s ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the interim authorities, as well as the authorities’ commitment to destroy Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile.

To mark the occasion, the British High Commission hosted an award ceremony, bringing together the winners, climate experts, and key stakeholders. The event featured an exhibition of the winning entries and offered opportunities to discuss youth-led climate action.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, said:

“I’ve been blown away by the exceptional quality of entries to this competition, creatively bringing to life the threat from and solutions to climate change. Pakistan’s young people are full of creativity and energy, and this competition has shown how powerful their voices can be in shaping the climate conversation. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who took part.”

20-year-old Roha Arshad, winner in the Climate and Innovation category, said:

“It’s easy to hope that some miracle technology will come around and save our planet. But it’s down to us. It’s our responsibility to think about our own actions. And use the miracle we already have: nature. That’s what my video is all about. Using what’s around us to heal the planet.”

The winners, Khadija Chaudary, Rahma Mudassir, Gulshan Fatima, Hayder Ali, Amaim Zia and Roha Arshad are between 13 and 22 years old. Their paintings, drawings, videos, stories and articles were recognised across 3 categories: climate and innovation, climate and gender, and climate in my community. They were celebrated for their creative storytelling on climate challenges and solutions.

Commonwealth Day will be celebrated across 56 member countries on 10 March, reflecting shared values of unity, peace, and sustainability. This year’s theme, ‘Together We Thrive’, highlights the importance of strong, connected communities working together to address global challenges.

Climate change is a key priority for the UK. The UK has helped 1.5 million people improve their resilience to extreme climate events, and aims to support a further 3 million people over the next 4 years. The UK’s innovative climate finance programme is set to mobilise over £420 million in climate investments, mostly from the private sector.

A former vice-chairman of Tata Motors has become the new president of Aston University’s Indian alumni network.

Dr Ravi Kant has more than 50 years senior level experience. He became the Indian auto firm’s managing director in 2005 and in 2009 he became the non-executive vice -chairman till 2014. He is credited with the company’s takeover and turnaround of Jaguar Land Rover bought from Ford in 2008. Prior to this role he was a director on the board of Philips India.

Dr Kant graduated from Aston University in 1970 with a masters in industrial metallurgy management techniques and in 2008 he received an honorary doctorate. He is one of the University’s 2,600 graduates in India, who are represented by a formal alumni network which operates digitally via WhatsApp. It was established in 2022 and as most graduates live in major cities, launch events were held in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. 

Following a restructure Dr Kant was named as the new president and was officially inaugurated with Dr Gaurav Brahmbhatt as vice-president on Monday 17 February in Mumbai. 

Speaking at the event, Dr Kant said: “Aston University is an institution which is forward looking and pragmatic. It embraces diversity, encourages excellence and was pivotal in shaping my early career. 
“I am very proud to be inaugurated as the first president of the Aston University alumni network of India. I look forward to working with Dr Gaurav Brahmbhatt and the alumni leadership team in India to make an impact in the region.”

Also attending the event was Professor Osama Khan, Aston University’s deputy vice-chancellor (academic) who added: “Thanks to Ravi Kant and Gaurav Brahmbhatt for leading the chapter as the president and vice-president respectively. It is energising to see the development in Mumbai but more importantly the growth mindset of our Indian alumni. The Aston Alumni Community India chapter has a solid structure for truly engaging our alumni community with Aston University’s 2030 strategy and beyond.”

As well as holding an honorary doctorate, Dr Kant contributes to the University’s BJ Meadows’ alumni scholarship programme which sponsors students at Aston University. In 2024 Aston University’s Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Professor Aleks Subic hosted the launch of Dr Kant’s book Leading from the Back to Achieve the Impossible.

The event featured 5 inspiring Bangladeshi women leaders: Afeida Khandaker, Captain of Bangladesh Women’s Football team; Shaheen Anam MBE, Executive Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation; Shamima Akhter, Head of Corporate Affairs, Partnerships and Communications at Unilever Bangladesh; Sheikh Sabiha Alam, Bureau Chief of Agence France-Presse in Bangladesh; and Leesa Gazi, writer, actor, award-winning filmmaker and Joint Artistic Director of Komola Collective.

Speaking at the event, the distinguished women leaders shared their leadership journey and the challenges they have faced and called on all parties to work together to end gender inequalities.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said:

The UK is committed to putting women and girls at the heart of everything we do. On International Women’s Day, and every day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women across the world but, more importantly, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring gender equality, rights and freedoms for all women and girls.

Several female Heads of Mission and leaders from international agencies also participated in the discussions, including H.E. Shiuneen Rasheed, High Commissioner of Maldives; H.E. Susan Ryle, High Commissioner of Australia; Amb. Tracey Ann Jacobson, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy; Judienne S Capiz, Vice Consul of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines; and Gitanjali Singh, Country Representative of UN Women Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has made progress in gender equality, but challenges remain, such as low participation of women in the workforce, violence against women and girls, and fewer women in leadership roles. Speakers highlighted the importance of giving space to and amplifying women’s voices; supporting women to take on decision making roles across different sectors; and the crucial role played by both men and women in championing gender equality.

The UK Government continues to work with Bangladesh to improve education for girls, prevent child marriage, support women’s health and combat violence against women and girls.

This year’s cohort come from across Pakistan, including Quetta, Multan, Peshawar, Islamabad and Karachi. Fellows will undertake a bespoke 8-week fellowship titled ‘Good Governance in a Changing World: The Media, Politics and Society’, joining counterparts from Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, said:

“High quality journalism is central to holding power to account. This intensive course will put these talented journalists through their paces both in the classroom, and at some of the world’s most recognisable media institutions. This will help them carry out bold investigative journalism on their return to Pakistan, create lasting networks, and break the stories that need to be told.”

Asim Ahmed Khan, CNN multimedia journalist and upcoming fellow said:

“I’m thrilled to be part of this programme and look forward to an incredible learning experience. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow journalists, exchange ideas, and explore new approaches to storytelling. I hope to gain fresh insights, strengthen my investigative skills, and bring back valuable knowledge to apply in my work.”

During this programme, fellows will explore the range of approaches taken by the UK and the South Asia region and then use that knowledge to direct discussions that tackle the big issues challenging the field. Fellows will be challenged to discuss evidence-based context for key policy debates, understand international positions (including appreciation of UK approaches), supply practical experience, and encourage dialogue on key issues.

This year’s cohort will join nearly 70 Pakistani alumni from the fellowship, and the wider Chevening alumni community in Pakistan that is nearly 2,000 strong.

These materials, available for free download, include digital posters and leaflets. To ensure accessibility, they have been translated into 23 languages, alongside English, to reach communities across the UK.

The IAA’s new materials provide clear guidance on:

• how to check if an immigration adviser is registered and authorised to give advice

• the risks posed by unregulated advisers

• how to report concerns about poor advice or illegal activity

The resources are designed for use by regulated organisations, ambassadors, charities, and legal professionals to help ensure individuals receive reliable advice and avoid exploitation.

The IAA encourages organisations to download and share these materials widely to help protect advice seekers from the risks of unregulated advice.

To download the materials or find out more, visit the IAA promotional materials page.