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Woolies trial bold new "scan as you go" trolleys

Woolworths shoppers will be able to scan their groceries when they go into their trolleys in an Australian-first trial of the tech carts. The Scan and Go carts are being trialled at a Woolworths in Windsor in western Sydney, with customers now able to scan items as they add them to their cart, eliminating time at busy checkouts. The technology, which has long been used in supermarkets overseas, utilises the already existing EverydayRewards cards, which allows access to a touchscreen that clips onto the trolley. As you peruse the aisles, shoppers then scan their items on the touchscreen as they go into the trolley, with the screen adding up the total of your groceries. Customers still have to pay at the checkout, but the supermarket says as the smart carts roll out, customers could eventually swipe their cards and pay directly at their trolley, cutting out the need for any time in line for tills. "The technology is co-created with one of our international partners [and is] home-grown in Australia, [we've] really been able to make sure it meets the Australian consumers needs," Woolies Managing Director Faye Ihan said. The high-tech system is meant to save shoppers time and money while doing their weekly grocery shop. "I actually have only been in here for half an hour I'd normally be here for over an hour," one customer who tried the smart cart told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/woolies-trials-new-scan-as-you-go-trolleys/4e7e5c2d-04e9-4997-8a0e-0bb4bba8948d" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. The company says the rollout won't impact employment, as Woolworths employees will conduct random checks of people shopping to make sure people don't exploit the system to steal. If the trial is successful, Woolworths says it will one day expand the smart carts to all Australian stories. Image credits: 9News

Food & Wine

"Rentirement": Bold new proposition for housing crisis

Aussies over 67 are being urged to rent out their homes and retire overseas in a bold new housing proposition floated by Suburbtrends. The property sector market researchers said that “rentirement” is a viable solution to the nation’s current housing crisis, as it would open up over 137,000 homes. Suburbtrends founder Kent Lardner said that current attempts of easing rental stress is not adequate enough. “While increasing housing supply is essential, it simply won’t come fast enough to address the immediate needs of renters.” Rentirement encourages those aged 67 to 77 to release their homes into the rental pool, and retire overseas, with Southeast Asia proposed as an ideal destination due to its significantly lower cost of living. “Our data shows that over 137,000 homes could be released into the rental market if just 10 per cent of the Rentirees cohort participated,” he said. “This represents a substantial untapped resource that could drastically ease rental pressures.” The initiative would offer a five-year moratorium on the loss of the primary place of residence benefit, which they believe this would be a “win-win” situation retirees, renters, and the government, as it could help provide more housing options. “Rentirees can enjoy a higher quality of life at a fraction of the cost, renters gain access to more housing, and the government can alleviate pressure on the housing market without significant expenditure,” he said. Lardner added that “rentirement” would lead to an immediate influx of rental properties, stabilising prices and reducing vacancy rates. “We believe rentirement offers a practical and timely solution to Australia’s rental crisis,” he said. “It’s time to think outside the box and explore every avenue to ensure a stable, affordable housing market for all Australians.” This comes after PropTrack reported that there has been a drastic reduction in affordable rental homes, with the amount of rental properties costing less than $400 a week plummeting from 43.2 per cent at the start of the pandemic to just 10.4 per cent now. Image: Steve Tritton/ Shutterstock

Money & Banking

Bold idea sees hotel offer thousands in cash back if it rains

In a move that's making waves in the travel industry, a posh hotel in the heart of Singapore has rolled out a revolutionary offer: rain insurance. Yes, you heard it right – rain insurance! InterContinental Singapore, a sanctuary for jet-setters seeking respite from both the humidity and the occasional tropical deluge, has unleashed a game-changer for travellers. Dubbed the "Rain Resist Bliss Package", this offer promises to keep your spirits high even when the rain gods decide to throw a dampener on your plans. Picture this: you've booked your suite at this 5-star haven, eagerly anticipating your Singapore escapade. But lo and behold, the forecast takes a turn for the soggy, threatening to rain on your parade – quite literally. Fear not, dear traveller, for with the Rain Resist Bliss Package, you can breathe easy knowing that if your plans get drenched, your wallet won't. Now, you might be wondering, how does this rain insurance work? Well, it's as simple as Singapore Sling on a sunny day. If the heavens decide to open up and rain on your parade for a cumulative 120 minutes within any four-hour block of daylight hours (that's 8am to 7pm for those not on island time), you're entitled to a refund equivalent to your single-night room rate. The package is available exclusively for suite room bookings starting from $SGD850 per night – so that’s around $965 rain-soaked dollars back in your pocket, no questions asked. No need to jump through hoops or perform a rain dance – just sit back, relax, and let the rain do its thing. And fret not about having to keep an eye on the sky – the clever folks at InterContinental Singapore have got you covered. They're tapping into the data from the National Environmental Agency Weather Station to automatically trigger those rain refunds. It's like having your own personal meteorologist ensuring that your plans stay as dry as your martini. But hey, if the rain does decide to crash your party, fear not! The hotel has an array of dining options to keep your tastebuds entertained while you wait for the clouds to part. And let's not forget, Singapore isn't just about sunshine and rainbows – there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you occupied, from feasting at Lau Pa Sat for an authentic hawker experience to retail therapy at Takashimaya. And here's a silver lining to those rain clouds: fewer tourists! That's right, while others might be scrambling for cover, you could be enjoying shorter lines, less crowded attractions, and even snagging better deals on accommodations. Plus, let's not overlook the fact that the rain brings a welcome respite from the tropical heat, making outdoor adventures all the more enjoyable once the showers subside. So, pack your umbrella and leave your worries behind. With InterContinental Singapore's Rain Resist Bliss Package, you can embrace the unpredictable and turn even the rainiest of days into a memorable adventure. After all, as they say, when life gives you lemons, make Singapore Slings and dance in the rain! Images: InterContinental Singapore / Getty Images

International Travel

Is the Barbie movie a bold step to reinvent and fix past wrongs or a clever ploy to tap a new market?

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lauren-gurrieri-5402">Lauren Gurrieri</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/rmit-university-1063">RMIT University</a> After a months-long marketing blitz, the much-hyped Barbie movie is released this week. From a <a href="https://news.airbnb.com/barbies-malibu-dreamhouse-is-back-on-airbnb-but-this-time-kens-hosting/">Malibu Barbie dreamhouse</a> listed on AirBnB, an AI tool that <a href="https://www.barbieselfie.ai/au/">transforms selfies into Barbie movie posters</a> and multiple Barbie-themed brand collaborations ranging from nail polish to roller skates, Barbie is everywhere. She has even gone viral as a fashion trend known as <a href="https://www.elle.com.au/fashion/barbiecore-27286">Barbiecore</a>, exploding across social media with people embracing vibrant pink hues and hyper feminine aesthetics. A Barbie world is upon us. Although some have criticised this <a href="https://twitter.com/MosheIsaacian/status/1673415496929267712">saturation</a> strategy, it is a very deliberate marketing ploy to revitalise and redefine a brand with a contested position and history. As well as attracting adults who grew up with Barbie and are curious to see what’s changed, the reinvention is drawing in those younger fans swept up by the tsunami of marketing and merchandise. Despite being one of the <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/brandspark-most-trusted-brands-america-2022">most trusted brands</a> with a value of approximately <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1009126/barbie-brand-value-worldwide/">$US700 million</a>, Barbie has long attracted feminist criticism for fuelling outdated and problematic “plastic fantastic” sexist stereotypes and expectations. <h2>The Barbie backlash</h2> Only a few years back, Barbie was a brand in crisis. <a href="https://time.com/3667580/mattel-barbie-earnings-plus-size-body-image/">Sales plummeted</a> across 2011 to 2015 against the cultural backdrop of a rise in body positivity and backlash against a doll that represented narrow ideals and an impossible beauty standard. After all, at life-size Barbie represents a body shape held by <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF01544300#page-1">less than 1 in 100,000</a> real people. In fact, she is so <a href="https://rehabs.com/explore/dying-to-be-barbie/#.UWs-5aKyB8F">anatomically impossible</a> that, if she were real, she would be unable to lift her head, store a full liver or intestines, or <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/305/6868/1575">menstruate</a>. The backlash has also been in response to growing concerns about how she influences child development, particularly how and what children learn about gender. Barbie has been identified as a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1740144521000243#!">risk factor</a> for thin-ideal internalisation and body dissatisfaction for young girls, encouraging <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S174014451630208X">motivation for a thinner shape</a> that damages body image and self esteem. And despite the multiple careers Barbie has held over the decades, research highlights that girls who play with Barbie believe they have <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11199-014-0347-y">fewer career options than boys</a>. This speaks to the power of toys to reinforce gender stereotypes, roles and expectations, and how Barbie has imported narrow ideals of femininity, girlhood and womanhood into young girls’ lives. <h2>Reinventing a long-established icon</h2> In response to this backlash, Mattel launched a new range of Barbies in 2016 that were promoted as <a href="https://shop.mattel.com/collections/fashion-dolls#filter.ss_filter_tags_subtype=Fashionistas">diverse</a>, representing different body shapes, sizes, hair types and skin tones. This was not without criticism, with “curvy” Barbie still considered thin and dolls named in ways that drew attention foremost to their bodies. From a white, well-dressed, middle-class, girl-next-door with friends of a similar ilk, Barbie has since been marketed as a symbol of diversity and inclusion. To signify the extent of the transformation, Mattel’s executives gave this project the code name “Project Dawn”. Mattel - like many other brands joining the <a href="https://theconversation.com/victorias-secret-joins-the-inclusive-revolution-finally-realizing-diversity-sells-163955">“inclusivity revolution”</a> - knew that diversity sells, and they needed to make their brand relevant for contemporary consumers. Diversity initiatives included a line of <a href="https://shop.mattel.com/pages/barbie-role-models">female role model dolls</a>, promoted as “introducing girls to remarkable women’s stories to show them you can be anything”. Barbie was also given a voice in the form of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5BsRl9zFaeSKIL4XD-pdGHGbJRvkfe8S">Barbie Vlogs</a>, where she expressed her views on issues including depression and the <a href="https://www.bustle.com/p/barbies-vlog-about-the-sorry-reflex-is-the-feminist-pep-talk-all-90s-babies-need-to-hear-9852366">sorry reflex</a>. A gender neutral collection called “creatable world” was added in 2019 to open up gender expression possibilities when playing with Barbies. Such efforts were crucial to undoing missteps of the past, such as a “Teen Talk Barbie” that was programmed to say “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSL2-rbE9AM">Math class is tough!</a>”, or the compulsory heterosexuality that Barbie has long advanced. <h2>The latest step in Barbie’s transformation</h2> Barbie the film is simply the next step in an evolution to make brand Barbie inclusive. And with a rumoured film budget of $100 million, the supporting marketing machine provides a critical opportunity to reset the Barbie narrative. With Greta Gerwig, acclaimed director of female-led stories such as Little Women and Lady Bird at the helm, and a diverse cast of Barbies of different races, body types, gender identities and sexual preferences, the film and its creators have sought to assure audiences of the film’s feminist leanings. Addressing the complicated history of Barbie is crucial for audiences who grew up and played with the doll and are grappling with introducing her to the next generation of doll consumers. Yet, Robbie Brenner, executive producer of Mattel Films, has explicitly stated that Gerwig’s Barbie is “not a feminist movie”. Indeed, the main character still represents a narrow beauty standard - tall, thin, blonde, white - with diverse characters in place to support her narrative. Which begs the question: are these inclusion initiatives simply emblematic of diversity washing, where the language and symbolism of social justice are hijacked for corporate profit? Or do they represent a genuine effort to redress the chequered history of a brand that promotes poor body image, unrealistic ideals and rampant materialism? What is clear is that in today’s climate where brands are increasingly rewarded for taking a stand on sociopolitical issues, brand Barbie’s attempts to reposition as inclusive have paid off: sales are now booming. Seemingly, Barbie’s famous tagline that “anything is possible” has shown itself to be true.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/209394/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lauren-gurrieri-5402">Lauren Gurrieri</a>, Associate Professor in Marketing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/rmit-university-1063">RMIT University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-the-barbie-movie-a-bold-step-to-reinvent-and-fix-past-wrongs-or-a-clever-ploy-to-tap-a-new-market-209394">original article</a>.

Movies

Expert's bold claim that boomers are to blame

An expert has claimed that baby boomers have “won the intergenerational lottery”, while young Australians continue to struggle to make ends meet. Chief economist for the MB Fund, Leith van Onselen, shared new data to support his claims, as he said governments have continuously favoured the older generations and neglected the financial needs of young people. The economist believes boomers have long had the upper hand in terms of taxes, wages, and house prices, and are completely unaware of their financial privilege. In terms of homeownership, van Onselen wrote for <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/economy/australian-economy/data-reveals-how-baby-boomers-have-seized-aussie-economys-spoils-as-young-people-suffer/news-story/dc59569780fb42389915e11cdb41dba6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a> that boomers were “lucky” to break into the housing market when house prices were still achievable. He said, “Baby Boomers have the highest home ownership rate in Australia and were lucky to have gotten into the market while houses were still reasonably priced.” “They then enjoyed the rapid appreciation of home values, while younger Australians have been priced out.” He continued, “They mostly own their homes outright and are largely unaffected by rising mortgage rates or rent increases.” “Some Boomers are even benefiting from soaring rents, as they own a large chunk of the nation’s investment properties.” Van Onselen also discussed the spending habits of everyday Aussies, citing data from the Commonwealth Bank that shows how many young Australians halted spending in the face of the cost of living crisis, while baby boomers did the opposite. He said, “According to an analysis of seven million CBA customers’ purchasing habits, spending per capita for all age groups under 55 fell relative to the rate of inflation in the year to March 2023.” “Australians aged under 35 increased their spending by only 3.4 per cent in the year to March, which was less than half the rate of inflation.” “This means that the average young person is buying fewer goods and services.” He continued, “By contrast, spending among the over 55s climbed at a faster rate than inflation over the year to March, with CBA customers over the age of 75 increasing their spending by approximately 13 per cent.” The economist said that this drastic change in spending habits within the older generation has directly impacted inflation rates, as well as interest rates that continue to rise. He said, “Therefore, the older generations are driving Australia’s household consumption and are helping to push up house prices, which has forced the RBA to respond with higher interest rates – which is negatively impacting younger Australians with mortgages.” Van Onselen summarised his claims by stating he believes that “Older Australians also look to have tightened their stranglehold on the nation’s homes.” “To the Baby Boomers go the economy’s spoils.” He concluded his claims by taking aim at a common argument that the older generations use against younger Aussies who are struggling financially, as he wrote, “Now watch on as they eat smashed avocado toast.” Image credits: Shutterstock

Money & Banking

Fans go wild as Terri Irwin flaunts bold new look

Terri Irwin has ditched her signature blonde hair as she debuts a brand new look in a stunning family portrait. The wildlife conservationist unveiled her new brunette locks at The Explorers Club Annual Dinner (ECAD) in New York. Terri attended the glam event with her son, Robert, and daughter, Bindi, and shared the beautiful family portrait on social media. The family were in New York to support Bindi, after being honoured with the President’s Award for Conservation. “The fam ❤️Photographed by @felixkunze for ECAD gala in NYC. So proud of @BindiIrwin taking home the President’s award for conservation on the night 🙌🏼” Robert captioned the photo posted on Twitter. “Congratulations @BindiIrwin! A well deserved award for all your work to protect wildlife and wild places,” Terri replied to the tweet. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/BindiIrwin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BindiIrwin</a>! A well deserved award for all your work to protect wildlife and wild places. <a href="https://t.co/AXKqwBsEzo">https://t.co/AXKqwBsEzo</a> — Terri Irwin (@TerriIrwin) <a href="https://twitter.com/TerriIrwin/status/1652170283455856640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote> In the photo, Terri rocked an emerald green top and matching satin skirt. The Irwin siblings also looked sophisticated with Robert in a sleek black suit and Bindi in a black blazer and floral floor-length skirt. Bindi also shared the photo to her Instagram with the caption: “Here’s to dedicating our lives to protecting, exploring and creating change for our Mother Earth. Thank you ECAD for the President’s Award for Conservation and congratulations to the extraordinary awardees.” Many fans commented on the tweet Robert posted, congratulating Bindi and praising the Irwin family. “All love for the Irwins,” wrote one fan. “Beautiful. Simply beautiful. Congrats to Bindi, and all of you Wildlife Warriors!! God bless,”commented another. “I love that the Irwins are as comfortable and as fabulous posing at galas in NYC as they are handling crocs in QLD,” wrote a third. Image: Getty

Beauty & Style

How beauty filters like TikTok’s ‘bold glamour’ affect tweens using social media

<a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/celebs/a43203022/tiktok-bold-glamour-filter/">TikTok’s new “bold glamour” filter</a> “enhances” physical features in a way that makes it difficult to distinguish whether someone is using a filter or not, despite its airbrushing qualities. Unlike its predecessors, this filter allows movement through an AI feature with the filter remaining fixed on when, for example, a hand crosses the face, with fewer glitches. Users could be left comparing their unfiltered appearance with their “perfect” filtered self. They may start to develop unrealistic goals of perceived physical perfection that affect their self esteem. Although the terms of service for most social media platforms require users to be at least 13, a significant number of “tweens” (children between the ages of nine and 12) <a href="https://www.ofcom.org.uk/research-and-data/media-literacy-research/childrens/children-and-parents-media-use-and-attitudes-report-2022">now have a social media profile</a>. Online safety lessons in schools <a href="https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Childrens-Commissioner-for-England-Life-in-Likes-3.pdf">tend to concentrate</a> on physical risk and predatory behaviour rather than emotional risks that children may encounter, as these may not be as apparent or experienced by adults. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> I am old enough and tough enough that filters don’t have an impact on me. My face tells the story of my life and I know its value; I can (mostly) look at who I am with love and acceptance. But if I had had access to Tiktok’s Bold Glamour as a kid, I would have been destroyed. <a href="https://t.co/USjFcLJkoh">pic.twitter.com/USjFcLJkoh</a> — Rebecca Seal (@RebeccaSeal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RebeccaSeal/status/1640275766100279296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2023</a></blockquote> The <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1461444819873644">damaging effect of “filters”</a> (digital image effects that alter a person’s appearance) is less commonly taught. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/KXDECXZB3CVNZNDHNURF/full?target=10.1080/03004279.2022.2095416">In my research</a>, I presented eight focus groups with activities to generate discussions with children of 10 and 11 years of age who were in their final year of primary school. One of the activities was related to the use of filters. Participants were given a set of photographs of people using filters on the social media site Snapchat and were asked questions such as: “How are these different from how they look in real life?” and “why do people use these filters?” The results demonstrated a clear and distinct gender divide. The boys said they used filters for fun and entertainment, favouring dog ears and exaggerated tongues to “make people laugh”. The girls used filters to create an idealised image that conformed to beauty ideals and for validation in the form of likes and comments. One girl, Samantha, said: “[filters] make you look perfect and flawless”. Another explained: “I like putting filters on because it doesn’t show my birthmark at all. It takes the blemishes off my face”. Similarly, tween Mia explained: “when you put a filter on, it makes your skin tone better and it covers up any spots or like any bruises and stuff that you feel insecure about in yourself.” My findings suggest that girls are internalising and aspiring to the beauty ideals that they are consuming via social media. There is a pressure to adopt a polished, physical appearance through filters, which may have <a href="http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/82913/3/__smbhome.uscs.susx.ac.uk_dm50_Desktop_Jaynes%20V.pdf">emotional repercussions</a>. <h2>‘Beauty isn’t everything’</h2> I also used collaging as an activity for exploring individual experiences. One child, Sophie, chose to show a binary depiction of herself as two halves. On the social media side, she used lots of different animal prints in triangles to show that you can be lots of different things and there are lots of different parts of yourself. She explained that the patterns she had chosen looked unnatural, unlike the more realistic filters online. Because (like other females in the study) she felt that there is an expectation for girls to look a certain way, Sophie also wrote “no one is perfect” on her collage. For the girls in my research, there was a sense that self expression was strongly linked to appearance, with a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26612721/">pressure to adhere</a> to certain perceived physical ideals. In her collage, Karen discussed at length how social media can be an augmented reality and can emphasise feelings of self consciousness linked to physical appearance. The characters drawn on her collage show a “real-life” self that had no filter, which “makes her sad” and a “filter self” which used make up and filters to enhance her appearance and made her happy. She also emphasised the feelings of negative self-esteem that viewing filtered images could have by saying, "People try and make themselves look beautiful and at the end it may really disappoint them." <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1461444819871669?journalCode=nmsa">Similar research from 2020</a> also concluded that girls tend to replicate “female” cues popularised through social media patterns, such as exaggerated lips and flawless skin. Although my research specifically focused on Snapchat, other social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram also encourage enhancing appearance through filters. Beauty filters reinforce the message that wearing makeup, looking a certain way and conforming to beauty ideals, is the desired physical state for women. Isabel had a strong message for girls in her collage: “be your own person and stop comparing yourself to others”. The widespread use of filters is certainly not facilitating this message and it is important that the emotional repercussions of using these appearance altering tools – as well as continually seeing them in social media feeds – is addressed. Open discussions could help educate girls to learn that these unattainable physical aspirations do not represent reality. Image credits: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-beauty-filters-like-tiktoks-bold-glamour-affect-tweens-using-social-media-203383" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.

Beauty & Style

New classified report makes bold Covid-19 origin claim

The US Department of Energy has reached the conclusion that the Covid pandemic is most likely to have arisen from a laboratory leak, as suggested in a classified intelligence report delivered to both the White house and key members of Congress. The conclusion, drawn with “low confidence”, comes more than a year after the FBI declared their belief that a laboratory incident in China was the source of the Covid-19 pandemic. In contrast to the Energy Department, the FBI made their assessment with “moderate confidence”. Reportedly, intelligence agencies make their assessments on a scale of low to high confidence, with a low confidence grading meaning that the information is not reliable enough, is not substantial, or is not cohesive enough to make a complete and informed judgement. The new report demonstrates the differing opinions of the US intelligence community about the origins of the pandemic, though the Energy Department is now in line with the FBI in believing that the virus likely spread due to an accident in a Chinese laboratory. However, while two agencies remain undecided, there are still four - as well as The National Intelligence Council - that are firm on their stance that the pandemic was the result of natural transmission from an infected animal. The Energy Department’s findings are allegedly drawn from new intelligence, and are considered to be significant due to their expertise and network of US laboratories. Though the Energy Department oversees the US’ nuclear weapons program, some of their laboratories are said to participate in biological research. Officials in the US did not provide details into the new intelligence that caused the Energy Department to shift its standpoint, but according to the Wall Street Journal, added that “while the Energy Department and the FBI each say an unintended lab leak is most likely, they arrived at those conclusions for different reasons.” Although intelligence agencies aren’t all in agreement, the update reaffirmed existing ideas that Covid-19 was not the result of a Chinese biological weapons program. “There are a variety of views in the intelligence community,” Jake Sullivan - the White House’s national security adviser - said to CNN’s State of the Union of the ongoing investigation into the origins of Covid-19, and US President Joe Biden’s request for national labs to be brought into the assessment. “Here’s what I can tell you: President Biden has directed, repeatedly, every element of our intelligence community to put effort and resources behind getting to the bottom of this question. “And if we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress, and we will share it with the American people. But right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question.” Images: Getty

Caring

Pauline Hanson's bold move into reality TV

Controversial One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who regularly sparks outrage with her questionable comments - is set to be shipped out to the Middle East as she makes her big break on reality TV, starring on Channel 7’s SAS Australia. She’s survived jail, Dancing with the stars and now returns to the small screen once again. In fact, Hanson could be up for a six figure pay out to appear on the program. It has not yet been revealed if she’s being paid or not but It is more than likely she could expect a lump-sum payment. The payment would be equal to $2500 a day and a bonus of between $1000-$5000 every three days. 7’s SAS Australia is shot over a 14 day period with a 13-episode run plus a reunion special. “The new season will be filmed in the Middle East, so it will definitely take Pauline out of her comfort zone,” a Seven insider told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-11427603/SAS-Australia-Pauline-Hanson-joins-new-season-set-Middle-East.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Mail</a>. Only five years ago did the former senator dramatically rip off a black veil in Parliament, declaring: “I’m quite happy to remove this because it’s not what should belong in this Parliament. “In light of what is happening with national security… will you work to ban the burqa?’’ she said. Pauline isn't the first contentious public figure to appear on the reality show. The series has also seen the likes of Sam Burgess, Wayne Carey, host Ant Middleton, and more. Image: Getty

Prince George's bold warning to classmates

A new book has claimed that Prince George delivered a sassy comeback to a fellow classmate during a tussle on the playground, flouting his royal status. According to journalist and author Katie Nicholl, who wrote The New Royals – Queen Elizabeth’s Legacy and the Future of the Crown biography, the second in line for the throne called out a student during a scuffle at the young royal’s former school Thomas’ Battersea in south London. Katie wrote that the Prince replied to his peers with the line, “My dad will be king so you better watch out,” when they were messing about on the playground one day. In her book, she wrote, "They [Prince William and Princess Kate] are raising their children, particularly Prince George, with an awareness of who he is and the role he will inherit, but they are keen not to weigh them down with a sense of duty." “George understands he will one day be king and as a little boy sparred with friends at school, outdoing his peers with the killer line, ‘My dad will be king so you better watch out.’” The royal children now attend the elite Lambrook School in Berkshire, west London, as Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were pictured with their parents for orientation day earlier this year. The young royals were welcomed by headmaster Jonathan Perry at the front gate, as they all said they were excited for their first day. Image credits: Getty Images

Books

Pauline Hanson's bold hope in the face of her positive Covid result

Pauline Hanson has contracted Covid just days out from the federal election. The unvaccinated One Nation senator confirmed that she is at home self-isolating and called out those who had bad wishes toward her. “I can confirm I am at home self-isolating after testing positive for COVID,” the 67-year-old tweeted. “I thank all of those people who have sent their well wishes, and I look forward to disappointing all of those who hope that I drop dead.” Ms Hanson believes that she contracted the disease while out campaigning in Perth for the election. Since her positive test, her Twitter account has been riddled with a One Nation petition to “Stop the WHO Pandemic Pact”. “If this proposal is adopted and signed by Australia the WHO could have the power to enforce lockdowns, hard borders around quarantine zones, vaccine passports, mandatory check-in and contact tracing, mandatory health tests, mandatory removal, and quarantine,” the petition read. “Furthermore, compulsory vaccination is part of the International Health Regulations, and may now be forced on all Australians if this vote succeeds. “If granted these powers, the World Health Organisation can declare a pandemic without justifying or even publishing its reasons and can continue the emergency measures for as long as it decides is necessary. “There is no appeal, no transparency, no fairness.” Ms Hanson has long been an outspoken advocate against the mandatory jab as well as the United Nations and the World Health Organisation who she accuses of pushing an agenda. "I haven't had the jab, I don't intend to have the jab, I'm not putting that sh*t in my body,” she said last year. “I've taken that stance and that is my choice. I am not an anti-vaxxer, but I am very careful of what I put into my body.” Ms Hanson said she maintained a healthy lifestyle and said the jab would put her at risk. “I don't intend to listen to bureaucrats or politicians, or UN or WHO pushing their own agenda and take away my freedoms, my rights, my choices when that's why I'm fighting this issue and so should you,” she said. Australians are set to head to the polls on May 21 and the controversial senator hopes to be reelected. Image: Getty

News

Stars make bold choices at the 2021 Met Gala

After spending 2020 on hiatus due to the pandemic, the annual Met Gala is back for the 2021 event. Stars from all over the world gathered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to celebrate the biggest moments in fashion. This year, the theme was “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion”, which gave guests an opportunity to pay homage to the rich history of American designers. The first celebrity on the carpet was international teenage superstar and Met Gala 2021 co-chair Billie Eilish, who stunned in an Oscar de la Renta gown that was inspired by fashion icon Marilyn Monroe. Billie took to her Instagram account to tell her fans that she agreed to wear the gown on the condition that the world-renowned designer would no longer use real fur. Other stars also used the high profile event to make political statements in their outfits. The two New York congresswomen in attendance, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Carolyn B Maloney, made bold statements in their gowns, with AOC’s dress reading “Tax The Rich” on the back. Carolyn B Maloney’s gown was an homage to the suffragette movement, with her dress resembling the “Votes for Women” sashes worn by women in the 1910s. Other celebs used the opportunity to stun in extravagant pieces that stood out amongst all the attendees. International supermodel Iman wore an elaborate gold embellished outfit that was adorned with feathers and a show-stopping headdress that was designed by her date, revolutionary designer Harris Reed. Debbie Harry stuck to the theme with a ballgown shrouded in the American flag and partnered with a bedazzled denim jacket. The star-studded event showcased some of the most inventive and daring outfits to honour the American fashion industry. All image credits: Getty Images

Beauty & Style

It’s Never Too Late To Be Bold and Chase Excitement

A seemingly nonsensical suggestion led Gail MacCallum to uproot her life and follow her dream. Some people get more averse to risk as the years go by. Not so Gail MacCallum, who at age 40 quit a secure job and left the city she had enjoyed her whole adult life in order to leap into the unknown. But she had to learn to be bold. MacCallum moved quite a bit in childhood and spent her formative years outside Canberra in a farmhouse without electricity. She read the books of animal observer Gerald Durrell and relished the freedom of the natural world. In her teens she and her family moved into the heart of inner-city Sydney, and she found she adored that too. “I was 14 and it was the perfect time. I loved the excitement of the city.” She continued to love it over the following decades as she moved through jobs including coffee-roaster and bookseller before finding her calling in book publishing and then magazines. In 2002 MacCallum and her then partner had a daughter, Amelia. They wanted to make sure that despite being a city kid Amelia had plenty of natural encounters so they sought out places to climb trees, watch lizards and spot turtles. But one day MacCallum realised her little girl was more at ease with busy streets than bushland. “When she was about seven, we were visiting a friend whose place had a beautiful lawn. Amelia called out to me from the verandah and said, ‘I can’t go into the wild!’ We decided we had to let her experience a wider world and two months later we were in a campervan heading off around Australia.” MacCallum admits she felt daunted. “I thought we’d need to know things like how to whittle your own clutch plate. I didn’t know how much it would all cost or what we’d do about money. But I thought the worst thing that would happen is we’d have an adventure and a holiday. I figured if we only make it two weeks in, so be it.” As it happened, the van they’d bought broke down just 90 minutes into the trip. But after repairs they set off again and travelled the country for six months, during which Amelia became an avid adventurer adept at digging fire pits. They returned to the city purely because the money had run out. “That trip helped me understand that success doesn’t have to be assured,” MacCallum says. “I realised that you can start something and just work it out as you go along.” Four years later she and her current partner Ian Connellan were on a brief holiday in Tasmania, enjoying the chance to get up close to wildlife including “the fluffiest wombats in the world”, when they ran into some friends-of-friends, soon to move interstate, who asked them to dinner. The next day, recalls MacCallum, “They said, ‘We think you should buy our house.’” With no intention of uprooting their lives she and Connellan thought this was “entirely ridiculous”, yet they got so excited talking about the possibilities such a move might present they missed their plane home. “We stayed at a hotel that night, woke up the next morning and said, ‘Let’s give it a go.’” They resigned their publishing jobs and in January 2013 moved to Hobart to start not just a new life but a new business. Individually and together, both are intrepid, independent travellers who had spent time with scientists and conservationists working in various remote spots around the world, including Papua New Guinea and the Galapagos Islands. They wondered if they could make a living supporting such work by helping others to experience those unique places for themselves. The two decided to set up a company that specialised in organising trips to places where important scientific and environmental research was taking place. Naming the new company Curious Traveller, they began taking paying customers to remote locations including Western Australia’s Kimberley region and islands off South America. “For us the travel business comes out of a love of science,” MacCallum explains. “It works brilliantly. Scientists get helpers and funding. Guests get to see what scientists do and how the world is changing because of it. They leave excited and inspired, having had an awesome experience in a place they otherwise might never have seen.” Two-and-a-half years in, the pair still have to supplement their incomes with some freelance writing and editing, but the business is growing and within five years they hope to be helping fund half a dozen research projects. It’s a big task. “Some days we think it would be great to turn off and have making it all work become someone else’s problem,” MacCallum says, “but when we see the wonder on the face of a person who is experiencing somewhere like the Galapagos for the first time we know we’re living a fabulous, lucky life.” <img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5f0c645b37b24c14b8304fa17e82ae63" /><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.3411078717201px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844052/follow-yr-dream-2-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5f0c645b37b24c14b8304fa17e82ae63" /> The Expert View The type of business MacCallum started, which aims to do good as well as provide a living, is known as social enterprise. Celia Hodson is CEO of an institution specially created to give such people the business savvy they’ll need to survive – the School for Social Entrepreneurs. The desire to create a business with broader aims than just making money is gaining ground. “When we used to put a call-out for people who thought they had an amazing social enterprise idea we’d have maybe 20 applying.” says Hodson. “Now we get 120.” Some leap straight in, but most make the transition while establishing the business: “Typically they taper off their paid employment as their idea starts to gather speed.” The rewards are great, but it’s important to be realistic. “We sometimes ask people who come to us, ‘Where in your cash-flow is your salary?’ They’ll say, ‘Oh I don’t need money.’ Yes, social impact is what it’s about but to make it sustainable you need to ask yourself, ‘Is it going to pay me a salary?’ And you need to think about how to measure the difference you’re hoping to make.” This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/true-stories-lifestyle/inspirational/Never-Too-Late-To-Be-Bold">Reader’s Digest</a>

Domestic Travel

Elvis Presley’s granddaughter announces bold new "calling"

Eight months after the death of her brother Ben Keough, Elvis Presley’s granddaughter Riley has announced that she just completed her training to become a "death doula". The actress took to Instagram to thank the community of people who taught her “conscious dying and death work.” "We are taught that it’s a morbid subject to talk about. Or were so afraid of it that we’re unable to talk about it... then, of course, it happens to us, and we are very ill-prepared," she wrote. "I think it's so important to be educated on conscious dying and death the way we educate ourselves on birth and conscious birthing. We prepare ourselves so rigorously for the entrance and have no preparation for our exit. So I'm so grateful for this community and to be able to contribute what I can." <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCydlDNllTw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCydlDNllTw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Riley Keough (@rileykeough)</a> </div> </blockquote> Riley noted she'd gone through the Art of Death Midwifery Training Course by Sacred Crossings, an institute offering workshops and classes in conscious dying and home funerals. The community experience is part of a movement that approaches death through an old-fashioned lens. “When a body is whisked away moments after death, this window closes, often permanently, leaving families feeling helpless, unsure and wishing they had a little more time," the Sacred Crossings website reads. Riley lost her brother in July of 2020, which could point to her decision to want to support others in their experience of death. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CGnG4WSFGtp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CGnG4WSFGtp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Riley Keough (@rileykeough)</a> </div> </blockquote> "For folks who do this work, often it is in response to experiences with significant loss… who can respond by helping other people," Dawn Walsh, a death doula and co-founder of the Lily House said. "It is the case with me," she says, adding that she essentially felt like "a spectator" during the rituals that followed. "It's a calling, end-of-life work… It's not something that you just do casually."

Family & Pets

Driver’s bold ploy to dodge parking fines

A Melbourne man has gone viral on social media app TikTok after sharing his "sneaky" method of getting out of a parking fine. User @omar_sbai uploaded a clip to the social media platform, telling people he had not paid for his dodgy parking in over a month – simply by displaying an old parking fine on his windshield. Racking up almost 500,000 views, the man records himself sticking the old fine on the front windshield of his car as a way to deter parking inspectors from giving him a fresh one. “So I got this ticket about a month ago and I’ve been using the same one every single day since, and guess what, I haven’t gotten a ticket again,” he said. The video received hundreds of comments of praise from people who were keen to try out the “hack”. "This is so clever," one person replied. "I need to try this," another person added. A few people revealed they had tried out the trick – but without the same success. “I tried this a few years back and they put a new ticket directly on top of the old one I had on my windshield,” one person said. “It doesn’t work," another user chimed in. "I tried and got double fined.”

Legal

ALDI's bold move to pay employees to take COVID-19 vaccine

The US arm of grocery chain ALDI will provide its employees with up to four hours of paid time off to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Announcing the move overnight, ALDI US said it will provide up to two hours of full pay for each dose of the vaccine staff receive. Due to the current vaccine requiring two doses, the total number of hours equates to four. Employees on salaries will be given more flexibility to receive the vaccine at their own convenience. ALDI US will also set up on-site vaccination clinics at its warehouses and offices. CEO Jason Hart said the grocer was focused on supporting frontline workers without forcing them to take a day off to receive the vaccine. "Since the onset of the pandemic, our entire ALDI team has worked to keep stores safe and stocked, and serve communities without interruption," Mr Hart said. "Providing accommodations so employees can receive this critical vaccine is one more way we can support them and eliminate the need to choose between earning their wages and protecting their well-being." Speaking to 9News, ALDI Australia said it will follow government advice when the vaccine is introduced locally. "We have and always will continue to support all Government health advice regarding the management of COVID-19 in Australia; the roll-out of a COVID-19 vaccine will not be exempt from this approach," an ALDI spokesperson said. "We remain committed to supporting Australia's leading health professionals to take all recommended measures to maintain the safety of our employees, business partners and customers."

Caring

ALDI's bold new move sees them winning the supermarket war

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> ALDI has attracted praise from Australian environmental organisations for its commitment to 100 per cent renewable energy. It announced on Wednesday that it was committing for its Australian operations to be 100 per cent powered by renewable energy by 2021. “ALDI is the 64th biggest user of electricity in Australia, powering 555 stores and eight distribution centres around the country,” Aldi said in a statement. “The business’ shift to renewable energy sources should provide clear evidence to Australia’s top energy users that renewable alternatives are affordable when factored in to long term planning.” The commitment comes after two ten-year deals with wind farms that will power all of the German supermarket's NSW and Victorian stores. ALDI Australia CEO Tom Daunt said that the supermarket wanted to build on its reputation for providing products at affordable prices. “As we continue our journey in Australia, we want to reassure our shoppers that how we conduct business is equally important as the value we offer,” Daunt said. Greenpeace has welcomed Aldi’s move and called on Aussie supermarket rivals Coles and Woolworths to match the commitment. “Renewable energy is the cheapest form of energy and is bringing down power bills across the country,” said Greenpeace Australia’s Lindsay Soutar. “In a sun-soaked country like Australia, it just makes so much sense to use [roof] space to generate clean and affordable power.” “ALDI making this commitment demonstrates it’s both possible and desirable for our biggest supermarkets to run entirely on renewable energy and paves the way for Coles and Woolworths to do the same.” ALDI has appeared to beat Coles to the punch, as Coles has installed solar panels for 68 supermarkets. In August last year, Coles also signed an agreement to secure three new solar plants. “Our ambition is to be Australia’s most sustainable supermarket and we're always looking for opportunities to make a positive difference through our commitment to sustainable products, sustainable environmental practices and sustainable communities,” a Coles spokesperson told Yahoo Finance. “We’re focused on managing waste (including food waste) and recycling, building more energy efficient stores and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, we're working to maintain food security and adapt to extreme weather events and the impacts of climate change.” Not to be left behind, Woolworths has focused its efforts elsewhere and has installed LED lighting for energy efficiency. “Further investments have included the installation of solar power systems across a range of trading stores,” its website states. A spokesperson revealed to <a rel="noopener" href="https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/aldi-renewable-energy-020920205.html" target="_blank" class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtflink">Yahoo Finance</a> that the supermarket is committed to reducing energy use across the business. “We’re continuing to install more efficient lighting and refrigeration systems, whilst also generating renewable energy for our stores through our new solar panel systems,” they said. “We recognise there is more to do and continue to look for ways to reduce our environmental impact.” </div> </div> </div>

News

The one percent plan: Bold strategy to reverse economic downturn

Egypt will deduct 1 per cent from resident’s salaries for 12 months, starting from July 1. The new bold measure aims to offset the major economic repercussions seen due to COVID-19. Both public and private sectors will be hit with the tax but it will only apply to those who have a net monthly salaries exceeding 2000 Egyptian pounds ($AU193). A tax of 0.5 per cent will also be deducted from state pensions. The brand new measure follows as Egypt tries to deal with the economic impact of the pandemic, which has brought tourism to a grinding halt, triggered major capital flight and threatened remittances from Egyptians working overseas. Funds from the new salary tax will go towards supporting organisations and workers specifically impacted by the virus. The cabinet also said in a statement, that direct support will be offered to some citizens. Those affected economically by the outbreak may be exempted from the tax. Egypt now has over 13,400 coronavirus cases, including more than 650 deaths. On Tuesday, the country recorded its biggest rise in daily cases to date.

Money & Banking

Angelina Jolie opens up in bold new interview about Brad Pitt

Actress Angelina Jolie has given a revealing interview about her third husband Brad Pitt in a new interview for Harper’s Bazaar. The actress appears on the cover sporting a veil and talks about regaining her footing after splitting from husband Brad Pitt in 2016. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B4fJKm8JSs1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B4fJKm8JSs1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">#AngelinaJolie on our December 2019/ January 2020 subscriber cover. See the full cover story at our link in bio. Photography by @solvesundsbostudio Styling by @patrickmackieinsta Hair by #malcomedwards Makeup by @thevalgarland Manicure by @chisatochee</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/harpersbazaarus/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Harper's BAZAAR</a> (@harpersbazaarus) on Nov 5, 2019 at 6:10am PST </div> </blockquote> Jolie is clever during the interview, as she technically never utters Pitt’s name once and refers to him as her children’s “father”. She also made a dig about how she would love to travel but is currently unable to do so due to their custody agreement. “I would love to live abroad and will do so as soon as my children are 18,” Jolie said. “Right now I’m having to base where their father chooses to live.” Jolie also speaks about the “visible and invisible scars” that the last four years have left on her body. "My body has been through a lot over the past decade, particularly the past four years, and I have both the visible and invisible scars to show for it," she explained. She continued: "The invisible ones are harder to wrestle with. Life takes many turns. Sometimes you get hurt, you see those you love in pain, and you can’t be as free and open as your spirit desires." However, Jolie credits her children as they know her “true self”. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0_oK14gcEQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0_oK14gcEQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Family ♡ Can we talk about Zahara’s glow 🌙✨✨ - - [#ZaharaJoliePitt #AngelinaJolie #BradPitt #BlackgirlMagic]</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/zaharajp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Zahara Marley Jolie-Pitt</a> (@zaharajp) on Aug 10, 2019 at 11:51am PDT </div> </blockquote> "My children know my true self, and they have helped me to find it again and to embrace it," she said. "They have been through a lot. I learn from their strength."

Movies

Duchess Meghan steps out in bold look for the first time since doco drama

The Duchess of Sussex stepped out in public for the first since the airing of a controversial documentary, where she opened up about the pressures of royal life. On Tuesday night, Duchess Meghan, 38, attended the opening ceremony of the One Young World Summit at London’s Royal Albert Hall. The One World website noted the royal as a “long standing supporter” of the organisation since joining as a counsellor at the 2014 summit in Dublin. She attended the event without her hubby, Prince Harry, to fulfill her role as vice-president of the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust. The former actress showcased her glossy locks and made a bold statement in a royal purple $50 dress - one royal fans saw before from when she was pregnant with her five-month-old son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The long-sleeved, bright plum coloured number is from Babaton by Aritizia and was first worn back in January 2019 when she and the Duke of Sussex visited Birkenhead, Englandin. During the opening ceremony, the royal was announced as one of 70 counsellors to appear at the summit, along with fellow celebs, Bob Geldof and Ellie Goulding. Ahead of Tuesday's event, the Sussex Royal Instagram account shared photos and footage from Meghan's appearances at previous One Young World summit. In one video, the royal addressed an audience in Dublin. She spoke passionately about female empowerment and implementing change, regardless of how old you are. "I think what scares people is that the idea of female empowerment is somehow threatening," she said. "No, it's not! You empower the women, you're empowering the community." The Duchess also mentioned as a child she successfully petitioned for the wording of a TV advertisement to be changed, in order to reflect gender equality. "I think anything is possible, because with my small voice at 11 years old we could do it, so I can only imagine what all of you are going to be able to do," she said. Tuesday’s events follows after both the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made headlines for the release of the ITV documentary Harry and Meghan: An African Journey. Scroll through the gallery above to see Duchess Meghan’s bold purple look.

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Duchess Meghan steps out in bold look for the first time since doco drama

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