Canada Orders Dissolution Of TikTok’s Business In The Country But Won’t Block App

Business News

LOADINGERROR LOADINGTORONTO (AP) — Canada announced Wednesday it won’t block access to the popular video-sharing app TikTok but is ordering the dissolution of its Canadian business after a national security review of the Chinese company behind it.Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne said it is meant to address risks related to ByteDance Ltd.’s establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc.Advertisement

“The government is not blocking Canadians’ access to the TikTok application or their ability to create content. The decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice,” Champagne said.Champagne said it is important for Canadians to adopt good cybersecurity practices, including protecting their personal information.He said the dissolution order was made in accordance with the Investment Canada Act, which allows for the review of foreign investments that may harm Canada’s national security. He said the decision was based on information and evidence collected over the course of the review and on the advice of Canada’s security and intelligence community and other government partners.A TikTok spokesperson said in a statement that the shutdown of its Canadian offices will mean the loss of hundreds of local jobs.Advertisement

“We will challenge this order in court,” the spokesperson said. “The TikTok platform will remain available for creators to find an audience, explore new interests and for businesses to thrive.”TikTok is wildly popular with young people, but its Chinese ownership has raised fears that Beijing could use it to collect data on Western users or push pro-China narratives and misinformation. TikTok is owned by ByteDance, a Chinese company that moved its headquarters to Singapore in 2020.TikTok faces intensifying scrutiny from Europe and America over security and data privacy. It comes as China and the West are locked in a wider tug of war over technology ranging from spy balloons to computer chips.Canada previously banned TikTok from all government-issued mobile devices. TikTok has two offices in Canada, one in Toronto and one in Vancouver.Michael Geist, Canada research chair in Internet and E-commerce Law at the University of Ottawa, said in a blog post that “banning the company rather than the app may actually make matters worse since the risks associated with the app will remain but the ability to hold the company accountable will be weakened.”Advertisement

Canada’s move comes a day after the election in the United States of Donald Trump. In June, Trump joined TikTok, a platform he once tried to ban while in the White House. It has about 170 million users in the U.S.Trump tried to ban TikTok through an executive order that said “the spread in the United States of mobile applications developed and owned” by Chinese companies was a national security threat. The courts blocked the action after TikTok sued.Both the U.S. FBI and the Federal Communications Commission have warned that ByteDance could share user data such as browsing history, location and biometric identifiers with China’s government. TikTok said it has never done that and would not, if asked.We Need Your SupportOther news outlets have retreated behind paywalls. At HuffPost, we believe journalism should be free for everyone.Would you help us provide essential information to our readers during this critical time? We can’t do it without you.Can’t afford to contribute? Support HuffPost by creating a free account and log in while you read.You’ve supported HuffPost before, and we’ll be honest — we could use your help again. We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can’t do it without you.Whether you give once or many more times, we appreciate your contribution to keeping our journalism free for all.You’ve supported HuffPost before, and we’ll be honest — we could use your help again. We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can’t do it without you.Whether you give just one more time or sign up again to contribute regularly, we appreciate you playing a part in keeping our journalism free for all.Support HuffPostAlready contributed? Log in to hide these messages.Trump said earlier this year that he still believes TikTok posed a national security risk, but was opposed to banning it.U.S. President Joe Biden signed legislation in April that would force ByteDance to sell the app to a U.S. company within a year or face a national ban. It’s not clear whether that law will survive a legal challenge filed by TikTok or that ByteDance would agree to sell.RelatedCanadaTikTok

Clemson football vs Virginia Tech: Our score prediction is in

Technology

CLEMSON — Clemson football looks to get back on track after its shocking upset home loss to Louisville last week.The No. 23 Tigers (6-2, 5-1 ACC) face Virginia Tech (5-4, 3-2) on Saturday (3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN) at Lane Stadium. Clemson must win this game to not only keep pace in the conference but to improve its chances at landing an at-large bid in the College Football Playoff.Here is what to know about the matchup:Can Cade Klubnik get Clemson explosive plays in passing game again?The Tigers had 10 big plays, which are characterized as passes for 15 yards or more or rushes for 10-plus-yards, against Louisville. Yet, only two were passing plays with one coming in the first quarter and the other in the fourth.Clemson entered the game having the fourth-highest-scoring offense in FBS with 41 points but was contained to 21. According to Pro Football Focus, Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik was 5-for-19 (26.3%) on 10 yards-plus passes against the Cardinals. Those are the most attempts Klubnik has taken this season on those throws and the lowest completion percentage he has had this year.The Tigers must figure out how to regain their explosive passing to complement their running game, which has been fantastic with running back Phil Mafah coming off a season-high 171 yards on 30 carries.What to know about Virginia Tech, QB Kyron Drones’ injury statusVirginia Tech’s losses have been to Vanderbilt, Rutgers, No. 4 Miami and Syracuse by one possession in each game.The Hokies are led by quarterback Kyron Drones, who missed last week’s game against Syracuse with an injury. Drones has 1,447 yards passing and 323 yards rushing for 16 total touchdowns. If he is out, fifth-year quarterback Collin Schlee will take his place.Hokies running back Bhayshul Tuten is second in the ACC in rushing yards (951) and touchdowns (12). Defensively, Virginia Tech is led by defensive lineman Antwaun Powell-Ryland, who leads the nation in sacks with 12. The Hokies allow 22.3 points per game, the fourth fewest in the ACC, and 363.1 yards per game, eighth fewest in the conference.MORE:What Dabo Swinney said about Clemson roster, CFP rankings, Peter Woods injury for Virginia Tech gameClemson football rebounds often after losses under Dabo SwinneyClemson is 35-9 in games following a loss under Swinney. After its 34-3 loss to Georgia in Week 1, it bounced back to defeat Appalachian State 66-20.Clemson is also 8-2 all-time at Lane Stadium, and its .800 winning percentage is tied for the highest of any opponent that has played at least five games in the venue since it opened in 1965. This will also be Swinney’s first time facing Virginia Tech coach Brent Pry. Swinney is 49-8 when facing an opposing coach for the first time since 2011.Clemson’s history vs Virginia TechClemson is 23-12-1 against Virginia Tech. These teams first met in 1900, and the Tigers won 12-5. Clemson defeated the Hokies 45-10 in their last matchup in 2020.The Tigers have won six straight against Virginia Tech, dating back to 2011. The Hokies last defeated Clemson in 2007, winning 41-23.Clemson score prediction vs Virginia TechClemson 28, Virginia Tech 24: The Hokies pose an even greater rushing threat than Louisville if quarterback Kyron Drones plays. If he does, expect the Tigers to be in another tight contest with a team that is performing better than its record. In the end, Clemson will make enough plays to defeat Virginia Tech and escape with a road win.Derrian Carter covers Clemson athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DerrianCarter00

Washington gives Oracle green light to buy back its debt in Russia

Technology

The computer technology company Oracle has reportedly received U.S. regulators’ authorization to sidestep American sanctions and buy back its debt from Russian creditors. According to a letter sent by the corporation to creditors, Oracle is prepared to buy debt claims against its Russian subsidiary (which was declared bankrupt in August 2023) for no more than 60 percent of their nominal value. Oracle’s creditors in Russia included Sberbank, Alfa-Bank, and MegaFon. According to RBC, the company’s total debt exceeded 1.4 billion rubles ($14.3 million). A condition of Oracle’s debt repurchase offer is that creditors must forgo any new claims against the company.Oracle’s letter to creditors also states, “in consideration of the position of foreign consultants,” that the company currently considers a bankruptcy settlement agreement, among other options, to be “impracticable” for regulatory reasons.Oracle suspended its operations in Russia in March 2022, following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

DEPLOYTOUR: Five real-world use cases to deploy a Common European Tourism Data Space

Travel

The DEPLOYTOUR consortium launches a major project in Palma de Mallorca to develop a Common European Tourism Data Space, aiming to transform tourism with data-driven solutions.

The DEPLOYTOUR consortium, a collaborative effort of 43 partners from 13 European countries, officially kicked off its ambitious project to revolutionise the tourism industry. The launch event, held in Palma de Mallorca, constituted a crucial step forward in the development of a Common European Tourism Data Space.
The project aims to address the long-standing challenge of fragmented and inaccessible tourism data by creating a common platform where data from various stakeholders can be shared and utilised effectively. By harnessing the power of data, DEPLOYTOUR will enable more personalised, sustainable, and efficient tourism experiences.
To achieve its goals, DEPLOYTOUR will focus on five key pilot projects:

Sustainable Tourism Management in Alpine Regions: Leveraging AI and data analytics to promote eco-friendly tourism practices and reduce environmental impact (Austria-Slovenia).
Resilience and Competitiveness in Mature Destinations: Utilising data insights to enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of popular destinations like the Canary Islands, Andalusia, and the Balearic Islands (Spain).
Supporting the MICE Industry: Developing AI-driven tools to optimise business travel and event planning in regions like Paris.
Leveraging Cultural Heritage for Tourism Diversification: Using data to revitalise cultural heritage sites and attract a wider range of visitors, as exemplified by Syros Island (Greece).
Empowering SMEs in Tourism: Creating a collaborative platform to connect SMEs with innovative TravelTech solutions and data resources, particularly in regions like Lapland (Finland).

DEPLOYTOUR is a 15.3-million-euro project, co-funded by the European Union and coordinated by AnySolution, a leading expert in data collaboration and European tourism initiatives. Over 36 months, the project aims to develop a common, trusted, and secure European infrastructure for tourism data. DEPLOYTOUR will enhance collaboration to help tackle recurrent challenges met by the tourism industry: aligning offers with tourists’ expectations, adapting service proposals to new tourist groups, predicting high tourist influxes, facilitating more efficient resource planning, and potentially creating new business opportunities.
During this three-year project, DEPLOYTOUR aims to engage connections through forums, workshops, and events, involving tourism and data stakeholders to join the discussion and contribute to the initiative’s development, ensuring its sustainability. The consortium brings together a diverse range of partners, including SMEs, tourism companies, data companies, national ministries, universities, research centers, technology companies, regional administrations, networks, associations, tourism data spaces and consulting firms.
The consortium is composed of:

SMEs (AnySolution, Arctur, AdQuiver, Unparallel Innovation)
Tourism companies (Avoris, Amadeus, Trenitalia)
Data companies (Amadeus Data Processing, The Data Appeal Company)
National Ministries (Italy, Greece, Austria, Portugal)
Universities (Politecnico di Milano (Polimi), University of the Balearic Islands, Lapland University of Applied Sciences, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa)
Research centres (Industry Innovation Cluster Slovakia, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Instituto Tecnológico de Informática, Fundación Tecnalia Research & Innovation, Informatica Intelligent Cloud Services (IICS))
Tech companies (NTT DATA, GMV Soluciones Globales Internet, Plextec, Hiberus IT Development Services, Libelium, Uni Systems Systimata)
Regional administrations (TURAND, BOHIN)
Networks and associations (NECSTouR, City Destinations Alliance, EF, FIWARE, Pleiades Cluster)
Consulting companies (Intellera, DISSET Consultors)
Transport, Mobility and Tourism Data Space (EONA-X)

The event at Mallorca featured a range of distinguished speakers who shared their insights on the future of tourism. Rehana Schwinningeng-Ladak from DG Connect highlighted the European Commission’s commitment to digital innovation in the tourism sector. Sebastián González from the Balearic Islands Government emphasised the region’s pioneering role in adopting data-driven solutions. Dolores Ordóñez from AnySolutionpresented the ambitious goals of the DEPLOYTOUR project, aiming to create a unified European Tourism Data Space. Agnieszka Bajno, project manager at the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA), detailed how DEPLOYTOUR aligns with the European Commission‘s priorities on digitisation, innovation and sustainable tourism. Bruno Castro fromDG Growth outlined the EU’s priorities for sustainable and competitive tourism, while Antonio López de Ávila from UN Tourism (UNWTO) provided a global perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
This project is co-funded by the European Digital Europe Programme, supported by DG GROW and DG CONNECT. It is built on the blueprint developed by two preparatory actions for the European Tourism Data Space (ETDS), DATES and DSFT, which defined the foundations of the Common European Data Space for Tourism. The European Data Strategy aims to establish common data spaces to support efficient data sharing among ecosystem stakeholders. Through a wide variety of stakeholders, the DEPLOYTOUR project consortium and its partners will strive to represent the diversity of interests of the tourism ecosystem.

Africa Tourism Partners appoints Claire Mugabi of AFRIREPS in Uganda as East African representative

Travel

Africa Tourism Partners appoints Claire Mugabi as the representative for East Africa, enhancing strategic tourism initiatives and market development across the continent starting November 4, 2024.

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – Africa Tourism Partners (ATP)  announce the appointment of Claire Mugabi (MCIM, MBA) as the representative for East Africa with effect from Monday, 04 November 2024.
Africa Tourism Partners (ATP) is a UN Tourism Affiliate Member and a recipient of the Distinction Award. As a Pan-African firm specialising in tourism development and strategic destination marketing, ATP focuses on strategy formulation, master planning, and strategic marketing in the travel, tourism, hospitality, aviation, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sectors. The firm utilises its extensive expertise, strong partnerships, and global networks to implement impactful programmes that are uniquely designed and yield measurable outcomes.
Claire Mugabi is the current CEO of AFRIREPS, based in Uganda and will be joining Africa Tourism Partners (ATP) as East African representative. She has over fifteen years in the marketing and communications industry which makes her a good fit for the position.
Kwakye Donkor, the Chief Executive Officer of Africa Tourism Partners, commended Claire Mugabi on her appointment, expressing confidence in her ability to significantly contribute to ATP’s initiatives aimed at enhancing intra-Africa travel market access and tourism development across the continent and in key source markets within Africa. “Given Claire’s expertise and experience, we are certain she will add considerable value to our efforts in East Africa as well as throughout the continent and beyond. Her contributions will enhance all areas of our work, including tourism strategy formulation and implementation, destination marketing and brand management, MICE strategy and project management, investment promotion and facilitation, as well as executive coaching and capacity building” said Kwakye Donkor.
Speaking about her appointment, Claire Mugabi pledged her commitment to transform the region through impactful initiatives. “I am excited to join Africa Tourism Partners (ATP) as the representative and focal person for East Africa. This partnership offers a unique opportunity to contribute to ATP’s mission of redefining African tourism. I look forward to collaborating with the team to implement strategies that elevate Africa’s global tourism profile, foster sustainable growth, and ensure environmental stewardship across the region. Together, we will drive impactful initiatives that enhance Africa’s position as a premier tourism destination”, said Claire Mugabi.
East African countries include Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. East Africa has been thecontinent’s fastest-growing region in recent years. It is home to several of the fastest-growing economies, including Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Introducing Youth to the Lives of Great Black Scientists

Science and Health

We need your support!

Sign up for our free newsletter to receive The Observer directly in your inbox every weekday.
By D. Kevin McNeirThe Afro | Word In BlackThis post was originally published on AfroBlack Lives: Great Minds of Science,” is the work of the book’s talented illustrator, David Wilkerson, and written by Tonya Bolden. (Photo courtesy of Abrams Fanfare)(WIB) – History is full of amazing Black scientists whose lives and accomplishments have routinely been ignored and forgotten because of their race and gender. But being overlooked doesn’t mean they have not had a profound impact on the world because of their talent, imagination and courage. In fact, their stories represent not only tales of personal triumph but also confirm the impact that an openness to diversity can have in propelling scientific discovery and progress to new heights. To shed light on the lives of great but lesser-known Black scientists and innovators, award-winning author Tonya Bolden and illustrator David Wilkerson have collaborated and recently published “Black Lives: Great Minds of Science.”This fun and accessible graphic novel for middle grade readers serves as a kid-friendly introduction to some of the greatest scientists in history – Black men and women who were doctors, engineers, mathematicians and biologists. While each of them faced challenges, they refused to give up or back down, rising to the top of their professions and making significant contributions along the way. Bolden, who began her career writing book reviews for Black Enterprise before working on “how to” books for clients, like “how to start a business at home,” or “how to get into the mail order business,” said this time she wanted to try something different.

Get Your 60th Anniversary Commemorative Edition

Limited Quantity

Award-winning author Tonya Bolden reaches beyond her comfort zone to pen “Great Minds of Science.” (Photo courtesy Tonya Bolden)
Finances FYI | In Partnership with JPMORGAN CHASE

.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles article .entry-title{font-size: 1.2em;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles .entry-meta{display: flex;flex-wrap: wrap;align-items: center;margin-top: 0.5em;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles article .entry-meta{font-size: 0.8em;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles article .avatar{height: 25px;width: 25px;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles .post-thumbnail{margin: 0;margin-bottom: 0.25em;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles .post-thumbnail img{height: auto;width: 100%;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles .post-thumbnail figcaption{margin-bottom: 0.5em;}.wp-block-newspack-blocks-homepage-articles p{margin: 0.5em 0;}

“I wanted to introduce young readers to professions and fields that you wouldn’t normally connect to Black people,” she said. “As I began my research, it occurred to me that while we all know about George Washington Carver, we may not know that there were and are Blacks who have made their mark in the world as marine biologists, robotics engineers and ornithologists. That made working on this book particularly exciting.” Bolden added that she also wanted to illustrate the variety of experiences and backgrounds that helped shape the lives and dreams of those featured in “Great Minds of Science.” “In the end, I really found myself assuming the role of a teacher,” she said. “But first, I had a lot of homework to do because I am not what you’d call a science person. I began to look at different eras within the last several hundred years as well as the different socio-economic backgrounds of Black scientists of the past and I was amazed. “In the book, we feature an inventor, Frederick Jones, who was born into poverty in Kentucky in 1893 and became an orphan at a young age. But in 1961, the year he died, Jones, who would become the father of refrigerated transportation and later dubbed ‘The King of Cool,’ sold his company, Thermo Control (renamed Thermo King), which produced refrigeration units that he invented, to Westinghouse Electric Company for about $35 million. Still, as he never applied for patents for his earliest inventions, he never made a dime on them and others were able to use them for free. His story represents the kinds of accomplishments I wanted to salute and share with young readers,” Bolden said. 

Wilkerson, the only child of parents from South Georgia and Waterloo, Iowa, said he first became interested in art and illustration during his years in elementary school. Now living in Largo, Md. in Prince George’s County, he said he had to work hard to develop his craft. 
David Wilkerson, illustrator of the book, “Black Lives: Great Minds of Science,” is just 32 years old. The title is a kid-friendly graphic novel on lesser-known, but still great, Black scientists. (Photo courtesy David Wilkerson)“I wish I had been naturally talented but I really wasn’t,” he said. “I put about six years into formal training including studying animation as a college undergrad and then completing my master’s degree so I could teach. As for this book, I think it represents some of my strongest work – it was certainly challenging,” Wilkerson said. Contributing illustrations for a graphic novel required Wilkerson to read the manuscript numerous times until he could imagine each of the nine scientists featured in the book in everyday situations – situations common to the work they did. “This is the first in a series of books and I think it’s going to be well-received,” he said. “In terms of the layout, I guess reading about science, especially if you’re a child, can be rather boring. So, my job was to grab the attention of our readers – to find the best fit for the words and the drawings. “I’ve done 11 or 12 children’s projects in the past but this is my first graphic novel. To be clear, I once had a day job as a construction worker and did illustrations as a freelancer in the evenings. There were roadblocks and for a while, I bounced from place to place and from couch to couch. But if you want it badly enough, you adjust, You learn how to be diligent. You consistently put time into your craft. Some of my friends have yet to see their dreams come true. Fortunately for me, I am seeing years of hard work and patience begin to pay off,” Wilkerson said. The book will be the highlight of an upcoming event in Baltimore. Bolden will be featured at the Enoch Pratt Free Library’s Cherry Hill Branch on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 4 to 5 p.m. See the link below for more information. https://calendar.prattlibrary.org/event/tonya-bolden-great-minds-of-science-black-lives-1This post appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Support Our Work

Help The Sacramento Observer continue its 60-year legacy of independent journalism. Your support ensures our mission of creating a more informed world.

Rediscover Singapore Science Park with immersive, exploratory experiences at HIDDEN Agenda and more

Science and Health

Singapore Science Park is set to become a hive of activity for live-action role-playing, interactive games, workshops and pop culture.SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 November 2024 – Singapore Science Park, renowned for its vibrant ecosystem of deep tech, life sciences and sustainability companies, will play host to a series of immersive, exploratory experiences for gamers, collectors, families and young adults seeking a more rewarding way to spend their weekends. Jointly created by CapitaLand’s Singapore Science Park and HIDDEN, an award-winning games company, this initiative will enliven the park with engaging experiences that reveal its hidden stories, secrets, and innovations. Showcasing lesser-known facets–from creative workspaces to green spaces and research communities–the programme invites participants to connect with the park’s spirit of discovery and innovation at every turn. Kicking off the new activities is HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter, a one-day festival that welcomes both enthusiasts and newcomers to explore the world of pop culture, gaming and collectibles, on 16 November 2024, at Ascent, Singapore Science Park. Open to the public for free, the festival invites everyone to experience, connect and play, as they dive into the immersive worlds of puzzle solving adventures, tabletop role-playing games (RPGs), board games and more. Experience: Join the HIDDEN Agenda Race to solve challenging puzzles and uncover clues around Singapore Science Park in a unique adventure blending the physical with the virtual. Shopping vouchers worth S$1,500 are up for grabs for the top three teams. What hidden agenda will you encounter as you seek answers from the unknown? Connect: Meet collectors and hobbyists as you explore a vibrant marketplace filled with exclusive action figures, rare trading cards and coveted pop culture memorabilia. What are the hidden stories behind these collectibles? Play: Step into new worlds with tabletop games, RPG demos and live-action role playing (LARP), where participants dress up and portray their favourite movie or comic book characters to play a live game. Will you reveal your hidden agenda in these adventures? The day-long activities aim to help participants explore exciting experiences, discover new collectibles, and meet fellow fans in the community. Collectors, for example, are in for a visual feast, as there will be eye-catching large-format statues of famous characters on display throughout the event. HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter marks the start of HIDDEN Agenda, an initiative to transform Singapore Science Park into a dynamic environment where discovery awaits at every corner. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, HIDDEN Agenda combines entertainment, education, and adventure to help visitors discover its many interesting attractions. At their own time, guests can also join the self-guided HIDDEN Odyssey game. Prompted by clues from the Void Deck Cat AI chatbot over WhatsApp, players will discover interesting parts of Singapore Science Park that they have not known before. “We are excited to partner with HIDDEN to create a unique gamification experience that highlights selected stories and innovations within Singapore Science Park,” said Chew Peet Mun, Managing Director for Investment and Development at CapitaLand Development Singapore. “The event uses the present to celebrate the past, and ropes in our tenants including retail outlets and restaurants in the area. It is a good showcase and an open invitation to the public to come experience the work, live and play vibrancy of the park.” he added. “Working with Singapore Science Park, HIDDEN will help visitors discover interesting gems and attractions through engaging activities that reward their curiosity and adventurous spirit,” said Lim Yee Hung, Co-founder of HIDDEN. “Through these immersive activities, a broader audience can connect with the spirit of exploration and creativity that defines the park,” he added. The latest efforts at Singapore Science Park builds on HIDDEN’s earlier success in developing interactive games and activities in Singapore. Since May 2022, similar HIDDEN games have attracted more than 40,000 players to explore Singapore in a new, immersive way. In January this year, the HIDDEN game was part of Singapore Science Park’s first alternative food festival, ‘Flavours of Tomorrow’. In April, the HIDDEN game was part of a national effort to promote the rich heritage of Singapore’s neighbourhoods. Partnering the National Heritage Board, HIDDEN provided a virtual quest in Katong-Joo Chiat to help launch the Heritage Activation Node (HAN) initiative to uncover the untold stories that make communities special. HIDDEN games are also going global. The interactive experiences they offer are expected in New Zealand later this year, as part of an effort to help promote Maori culture and heritage throughout the country. This is a testament of HIDDEN’s strengths in storytelling, game design and technology to engage audiences through immersive experiences. Over the years, the company’s unique chatbot-led games have won multiple awards, including the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2023 and 2024. Festival Factsheet HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter FESTIVAL OVERVIEW Name HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter Date & Time Saturday, 16 November 2024, 11AM – 7PM Location Ascent, Singapore Science Park, 2 Science Park Dr, Singapore 118222 Description HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter is a 1-day all-inclusive and immersive festival, designed for both enthusiasts and newcomers to explore the world of pop culture, gaming, and collectibles. Under the HIDDEN Agenda initiative, the festival features three main components: EXPERIENCE, CONNECT & PLAY — inviting all to dive into tabletop RPGs, board games, and more. Whether you’re competing in the HIDDEN Agenda Race, discovering collectibles, or meeting fellow fans, the festival asks: “Whose agenda will you ENCOUNTER?” ORGANISERS Presented by HIDDEN in partnership with Singapore Science Park About HIDDEN HIDDEN is an award-winning experiences company that combines the physical and virtual worlds to help players uncover hidden gems in a city’s iconic neighbourhoods. Launched in 2022, the company is the brainchild of two childhood friends who wanted to make heritage come alive and easily accessible through games and technology. As a social enterprise under the United Nations Development Programme, HIDDEN is committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all. For more information, please visit www.hidden.sg About Singapore Science Park Singapore Science Park (SSP) is a technology and development centre located in the liveliest tech hub in Singapore. As one of the most prestigious Research & Development (R&D) addresses in Southeast Asia, SSP is home to over 350 laboratories, and MNCs, as well as global leading tech companies. Located within the Greater one-north, SSP is also part of the vibrant community together with notable neighbours such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), National University Hospital (NUH), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), CREATE Campus and one-north development cluster, driving home the community’s roots in technology and development. Find out more at https://www.sciencepark.com.sg/en.html FESTIVAL COMPONENTS EXPERIENCE Step into the ultimate challenge powered by HIDDEN, where your true agenda is yet to be revealed. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzle solver or a novice just starting out, you’ll encounter hidden clues and unravel mysteries in this high-stakes race. Your choices, regardless of experience, will shape the outcome—what hidden agenda will you encounter as you race against time? CONNECT For collectors and hobbyists alike, explore a vibrant marketplace filled with exclusive action figures, rare trading cards, and coveted pop culture memorabilia. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, you’ll encounter hidden stories behind every item, connecting with fellow fans through the thrill of discovery. What hidden agenda will you uncover as you dive into the world of collectibles? PLAY Step into new worlds, where your true agenda is waiting to be revealed—even if you’re new to the adventure. Through tabletop games, RPG demos, and live-action role-playing (LARPing), you’ll encounter hidden strengths and strategies as you navigate immersive scenarios. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a novice, you’ll test your problem-solving skills and creativity—what hidden agenda will you encounter as you play? HIGHLIGHT EVENT – HIDDEN Agenda Race Description Join the HIDDEN Agenda Race on 16 November 2024 and embark on a thrilling journey through Singapore Science Park, a dynamic business hub by CapitaLand. In this unique collaboration between HIDDEN and Singapore Science Park, participants will race through intriguing checkpoints, uncovering hidden gems, fascinating insights, and the park’s little-known treasures. The race challenges participants to solve puzzles and uncover secrets as they explore the park’s landmarks. With exciting prizes for top performers, this high-stakes adventure promises discovery at every turn, inviting racers to dive deeper into the mysteries of Singapore Science Park. Are you ready to reveal what lies beneath the surface? Prizes 1st Place: $1,000 Shopee Voucher 2nd Place: $300 Shopee Voucher 3rd Place: $200 Shopee Voucher Special Feature Participants are encouraged to dress as their favourite characters to compete for the Best Dressed Award ($200 Shopee Voucher) ADDITIONAL EVENTS LARPing Adventures Live-Action-Role-Playing (LARPing) Step into an immersive world of fantasy with LARP Singapore (@larpsingapore) at HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter! This unique experience invites participants to live out their fantasy characters by donning costumes, crafting personas, and diving into live-action role-playing scenarios. Whether you’re an experienced LARPer or trying it for the first time, LARP Singapore’s adventures offer a welcoming, judgement-free environment where everyone is encouraged to act, strategize, and create. Designed to bring out hidden strengths and foster new connections, LARP Singapore’s sessions are perfect for both newcomers and veterans. Participants will engage in thrilling, collaborative storylines that blur the line between fantasy and reality. No prior experience is needed—just bring your imagination and a spirit of adventure for an unforgettable experience! Tabletop Games Dive into the world of trading card games with Barter Trade Singapore at HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter! This event invites enthusiasts of all levels, from seasoned collectors to newcomers, to explore the dynamic universe of trading cards. Participants are encouraged to bring their own decks to trade, strategize, and compete in a lively, community-driven atmosphere. Connect with fellow players, uncover rare finds, and sharpen your skills in strategic gameplay. Whether you’re hunting for that elusive card or ready to test your deck in a friendly match, this event offers something for everyone. Join us to trade, play, and reveal the hidden treasures within your deck! Role Playing Games Step into new worlds with a diverse lineup of Role-Playing Games at HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter! Across two immersive time slots—12-3 PM and 4-7 PM—participants can dive into thrilling adventures with popular titles like Blades in the Dark, Wrath and Glory, Cyberpunk Red, Pathfinder, Marvel Multiverse, and more. Each session offers an unforgettable story, perfect for both seasoned players and newcomers. Secure your spot early, as limited spaces mean that latecomers may have their places offered to the waitlist. Join us to explore intricate narratives and encounter new worlds through tabletop role-playing! Industry Talks Sessions featuring experts on topics like collectibles, card grading, and the business of fandom. Marketplace Limited-edition items, rare collectibles, and unique memorabilia, with vendors like misb.co, Oxley Grading, Barter Trade Singapore, and many others. Miniature Speed Painting Unleash your creativity at our Miniature Speed Painting Booth! In just one hour, transform a grey miniature into a vibrant masterpiece with guidance from experienced instructors. All materials are provided, including paints, brushes, and miniatures, so you can dive right into the art of miniature painting. This session is perfect for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike, offering a fun, hands-on experience to create something you’ll be proud to own. Come ready to explore your artistic side and leave with a unique, hand-painted miniature! RPG: Warcry Demo Prepare for battle in the mortal realms with our Warcry Demo! This quick introduction to Warcry—a fast-paced, skirmish game perfect for beginners—invites you to lead your own warband to victory. Friendly instructors will guide you through the basics, helping you strategize and learn the ropes of this exciting tabletop wargame. Ideal for newcomers to the hobby, Warcry combines easy-to-learn mechanics with immersive storytelling. Join us to experience the thrill of battle and master the art of skirmish tactics! Tabletop Games (PAID) Join @laiplayleow at HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter for an immersive tabletop gaming experience spanning three unique locations within the festival. For a single-entry fee of $5, participants gain access to all three event spaces, each featuring a range of engaging and beginner-friendly tabletop games. This multi-venue experience provides an opportunity for both newcomers and veteran players to enjoy a variety of tabletop adventures in a lively, social atmosphere. With a flexible, multi-location setup, this event encourages exploration and discovery within the world of tabletop gaming. Join us to experience the diversity of games available and to forge connections with the tabletop community. SPECIAL INITIATIVES Explorer’s Mission Explorer’s Mission: A Faction-Based Adventure Awaits Participants of HIDDEN Agenda: The Encounter festival will embark on an immersive journey to uncover hidden treasures scattered across Singapore Science Park. Here’s how the Explorer’s Mission unfolds: Choose Your Faction: Attendees can align themselves with one of two factions: the daring Lightbearers or the cunning Doombringers. Each participant selects a role that will influence their quest. Engage in Thrilling Missions: By scanning strategically placed QR codes, participants will explore the park’s secrets and complete quests. Successfully finishing all base missions, rewards adventurers with a $5 Shopee voucher. Contribute to Your Faction’s Success: Every completed mission adds to the faction’s overall score, pushing them up the leaderboard. The competition is fierce—only one faction will triumph. Stay Ready for Bonus Challenges: Throughout the day, surprise missions will be unveiled via Instagram stories and chatbot updates, offering participants additional ways to score points and impact the race. Dress-Up Encouragement Festival attendees are encouraged to dress up as their favourite fictional/non-fictional character, enhancing the immersive experience and community engagement. TARGET AUDIENCE Pop Culture Fans People passionate about comics, collectibles, tabletop games, and fandoms. Families & Young Adults Activities suitable for all ages, creating a family-friendly environment. Curious Newcomers Designed to be accessible and welcoming to those new to these hobbies or communities. MEDIA CONTACT INFORMATION Contact Person Lim Yee Hung Email [email protected] Phone Number +65-98765462 Website http://go.hidden.sg/agenda SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Instagram instagram.com/hiddengame.sg Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddengame.sg/ LinkedIn https://sg.linkedin.com/company/hidden-sg KEY MESSAGES “Whose agenda will you encounter?” – The festival’s tagline invites attendees to discover hidden aspects of themselves and the community. Emphasis on inclusivity, encouraging both hardcore fans and newcomers to explore and participate. Hashtag: #HIDDENThe issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.ABOUT HIDDENHIDDEN is an award-winning experiences company that combines the physical and virtual worlds to help players uncover hidden gems in a city’s iconic neighbourhoods. Launched in 2022, the company is the brainchild of two childhood friends who wanted to make heritage come alive and easily accessible through games and technology. As a social enterprise under the United Nations Development Programme, HIDDEN is committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all. For more information, please visit www.hidden.sg About Singapore Science ParkSingapore Science Park (SSP) is a technology and development centre located in the liveliest tech hub in Singapore. As one of the most prestigious Research & Development (R&D) addresses in Southeast Asia, SSP is home to over 350 laboratories, and MNCs, as well as global leading tech companies. Located within the Greater one-north, SSP is also part of the vibrant community together with notable neighbours such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), National University Hospital (NUH), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), CREATE Campus and one-north development cluster, driving home the community’s roots in technology and development. Find out more at https://www.sciencepark.com.sg/en.html