From the Editors: True measure of success for the youth

TRUE MEASURE OF SUCCESS FOR THE YOUTH: Today is International Youth Day and we have much to reflect upon as we mark the occasion. With the youth holding the key to the future, it is heartening that the UAE leaves no stone unturned in nurturing its young talent by providing them the right framework to realise their dreams. As parents and families too, we owe it to our children to give them what it takes not only to chart brilliant careers but also to be decent human beings. The measure of true success depends on how grounded we are and the importance we place on basic values like humility, empathy and kindness. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

BORDER CONTROLS TO REMAIN IN NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand tackled the COVID-19 pandemic with an iron hand. Now it is planning to continue taking strong measures to ensure that the people are kept safe from the coronavirus. The country is hoping to cautiously reopen its borders to international travellers early next year. Life is almost back to normal in New Zealand but the borders stay shut until the vaccination programme is completed by the end of the year. About 29% of New Zealanders have received one dose of the vaccine and 17% are fully vaccinated. There is still a long way to go, but the country’s success in keeping COVID-19-related deaths down to 26 is a lesson in patience and perseverance. There is much to be learnt from New Zealand and one can only hope that it keeps the numbers down even when the borders are opened. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

MAN CITY DEALT HUGE INJURY BLOW AHEAD OF BIG KICK OFF: With the 2021/22 English Premier Season kicking off tomorrow, champions Man City have been dealt a huge blow with the news that midfielder Phil Foden will miss the start of the campaign. The exciting attacker is suffering from a foot injury that he picked up during Euro 2020. The 21-year-old will miss games against Tottenham, Norwich City and Arsenal and he is also a doubt for England's 2022 World Cup qualifier against Hungary next month. With City out to defend their title, a good start is a must, but that will be harder to achieve without the flair of Foden. He is expected to be back in action after four weeks on September 11 against Leicester City. He isn’t the only player out injured – their talisman Kevin de Bruyne is also currently sidelined and will also miss the start of the season. With two key players out, their title rivals Chelsea and Man Utd - who have both strengthened their squads - will fancy their chances of being the early pace setters in the title race. [ COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

SUPPORT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE: When things are tough, or in times of success, it’s always good to know that someone is rooting for you. In the case of Indian Olympian Mirabai Chanu, she has Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and more singing her praises. The actor recently met with Chanu and congratulated her. On the other side of the world, Hollywood actress Selma Blair — who has multiple sclerosis — has offered love and support to Christina Applegate after her own multiple sclerosis diagnosis. It’s heart-warming to see this kind of encouragement and serves as inspiration to others to be helpful even in little ways.[COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]