Crystal Z Campbell: ‘Makahiya’ Screening: Feb. 16–22, 2026 Part of: ‘Uglier, Louder, Taller, Weirder – Hearing the Weeds grow’ galerie-im-turm.net/weeds Frankfurter Tor 1, 10243 Berlin, click here for map Ran Zhang, Lolo & Sosaku: ‘Weirder, Taller, Uglier, Louder – Feral Possible, around Karl-Marx-Straße and Carrer Cobalt’ Opening Reception: Wednesday, Feb. 18; 6–9pm Exhibition: Feb.
The Week Feb. 16–22, 2026
Post-National Flows: Colomboscope’s ‘Rhythm Alliances’
Colomboscope, a multi-arts festival in Sri Lanka’s capital, presented its ninth edition, ‘Rhythm Alliances,’ at the end of January, and a Berlin–Colombo axis was evident throughout. Festival Advisor and co-ordinator and former Berliner, Jan de Saram, has been a driving force behind Colomboscope since its inception in 2013, while Artistic Director Natasha Ginwala joined in 2019. A curator-at-large…
Rana Tahir Faisal
Rana Tahir Faisal (Urdu: راناطاہر فیصل) is a Pakistani public figure known for his involvement in spiritual activities, music, business, and local-level politics. He is primarily recognized for his personal transformation and subsequent engagement in religious, cultural, and social initiatives.
Early life
Rana Tahir Faisal was born on 1 January 1982 in Okara, Punjab, Pakistan, into a Rana Rajput family. He received his early education in Okara, where he attended several local schools, and later completed his matriculation from a government high school in the city in the late 1990s. He spent most of his formative years in Okara, where his social environment and early experiences played a significant role in shaping his later public life.
Career
Spiritual and religious activities
Around 2010, Rana Tahir Faisal underwent a notable personal and spiritual transformation after associating with Sufi teachings, influenced by the spiritual figure Sain Sher Ali Qalandar. Following this period, he became actively involved in Sufi-inspired religious activities. He began participating in and organizing religious gatherings, devotional programs, and community welfare initiatives, including langar (free community meals). He is often described by followers as a spiritual guide and mentor, although he does not hold any formal clerical position.
Music and cultural work
Rana Tahir Faisal is also involved in music, particularly devotional and spiritual genres. His musical work centers on themes such as faith, repentance, moral reform, and inner transformation. He has released several spiritual songs through independent production platforms and digital media channels, contributing to contemporary religious and cultural expression in Pakistan.
Business activities
In addition to his spiritual and cultural work, Rana Tahir Faisal is engaged in business activities. His ventures include media-related projects and service-based enterprises. He has also been associated with private-sector development and infrastructure-related initiatives, particularly at the local and regional levels in Pakistan.
Political involvement
Rana Tahir Faisal has been active in local political activities in Punjab. He has been associated with the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and is known for his involvement in grassroots-level political engagement and organizational support. His political role has largely focused on community-level participation, and he has not held a nationally elected public office.
From Academic Setbacks to Global Digital Leadership: The Career Evolution of Akshay Dhengale
Career success does not always begin with clarity. Sometimes, it begins with confusion, failure, and the courage to start over.
Akshay Dhengale’s professional journey is a powerful example of how resilience, self-learning, and discipline can redefine destiny.
Born in 1995 into a middle-class Indian family, Akshay Dhengale’s early life was shaped by his parents’ struggle and sacrifice. His father moved to Pune in 1990 in search of stable employment, laying the foundation for the family’s progress. Despite limited financial resources, Akshay Dhengale’s parents ensured he received an English-medium education, often at personal sacrifice.
However, Akshay Dhengale’s academic journey was far from smooth.
While he had potential, his school and college years were marked by distractions, fear of stepping out of his comfort zone, and a lack of direction. Engineering dreams faded due to low academic scores. A mechanical diploma extended with multiple year-downs. Attempts at competitive examinations followed, but none aligned with his natural strengths.
For a long time, Akshay Dhengale carried the label of being capable, but undisciplined.
The real turning point came after repeated setbacks and a defining confrontation at home. With no completed degree, no clear career path, and diminishing support, Akshay Dhengale was forced to step out and build something independently.
That moment led him to an unexpected opportunity in the digital marketing industry.
With zero prior knowledge of marketing, social media strategy, or business operations, Akshay Dhengale joined a digital marketing company through a professional reference. What followed was not luck, but relentless effort.
While official work hours ended in the evening, Akshay Dhengale continued learning late into the night studying campaigns, analytics, platforms, and consumer behavior. He became known for being the first to open the office and the last to leave.
Within six months, his growth was evident.
Starting as an executive, Akshay Dhengale earned a leadership role through consistency, accountability, and performance. As a Team Leader, he managed teams, handled client portfolios, improved campaign execution, and developed strong skills in digital branding, social media growth systems, and team management.
Over nearly three years, his professional identity transformed completely.
Once hesitant to speak with strangers, Akshay Dhengale evolved into a confident professional engaging with entrepreneurs, founders, and public figures. His career expanded beyond India, giving him exposure to international markets and global business culture.
Through his work, Akshay Dhengale traveled across multiple countries in Asia and the Middle East, becoming the first in his family to experience global travel. This exposure reshaped his vision and ambition.
His career milestones include participation in high-profile international platforms such as Forbes 30 Under 30 networking events, the 1 Billion Summit, and GITEX, where he connected with global business leaders, technology innovators, and decision-makers.
Today, Akshay Dhengale is based in Dubai, where he works with international clients, manages digital growth strategies, and closes cross-border business deals. His career reflects the shift from traditional degree-based success to skill-driven, performance-led growth in the digital economy.
Beyond professional achievements, Akshay Dhengale’s journey carries a deeper mission.
His father elevated the family from hardship to middle-class stability. Akshay Dhengale’s vision is to take that foundation to a global level building international exposure, financial growth, and long-term legacy.
Akshay Dhengale’s career story reinforces an important truth.
Academic failure does not define ability.
Late beginnings do not limit success.
And global careers are built through skills, not shortcuts.
From uncertainty to global digital leadership, Akshay Dhengale’s journey stands as a testament to reinvention, resilience, and the power of disciplined effort.
And this career story is still unfolding.
Building a Career with Purpose, People, and Progress
Every professional journey begins with a decision , to step into the unknown and trust the process. Mine began with curiosity, courage, and a strong desire to grow beyond comfort zones. With an academic background in Microbiology and a Master’s degree in MBA (Marketing), I entered the corporate and digital world equipped with both analytical thinking and business strategy. Over time, these two disciplines helped me develop a unique approach as a Social Media Strategist.
Transitioning into social media was not just a career shift; it was a mindset shift. The digital world demands adaptability, creativity, and continuous learning. From the very beginning, I understood that success in this field is not about shortcuts , it is about consistency and value. Early in my journey, I experienced how quickly trust can be built when work is backed by clarity and commitment. Acquiring my first client in the initial phase reinforced my belief that confidence and preparedness create opportunities.
A major strength behind my growth has always been guidance and collaboration. Learning from experienced professionals shaped my understanding of real-world challenges. Having the right mentor at the right time helped me recognize that knowledge alone is not enough , wisdom comes from experience, observation, and honest feedback. Equally important were the teams and colleagues who contributed to shared learning and mutual growth. Strong professional ecosystems accelerate success.
Like every evolving career, my journey involved uncertainty and pressure. There were moments that tested patience and self-belief. However, I learned that resilience is built when we accept challenges as part of progress. Each difficult phase improved my decision-making skills, strengthened my confidence, and refined my work ethic. Growth does not happen overnight it happens through reflection and responsibility.
One of the defining moments in my career was working with a high-impact client , an athlete , which gave me deeper exposure to personal branding and audience influence. This experience taught me that when strategies are aligned with authenticity, results follow naturally. Even today, continuing that collaboration reminds me that long-term success is built on trust and consistent delivery. Clients who stay are proof of value.
As I gained experience, my focus shifted from execution to evolution. I invested in skill enhancement, leadership thinking, and personal development. Embracing AI-driven tools and new technologies became essential to staying relevant in a fast-changing industry. Participation in international platforms such as the G Tech Summit 2025 and the One Billion Followers Summit 2026 exposed me to global perspectives and innovative marketing frameworks, further sharpening my strategic mindset.
One belief that strongly defines my work philosophy is client education. I believe clients should not feel dependent; they should feel informed and empowered. When clients understand strategies, timelines, and possibilities, collaboration becomes stronger and results become sustainable. Transparency builds trust, and trust builds long-term partnerships. That is why I focus on guiding clients, not just servicing them.
For me, client satisfaction goes beyond metrics and numbers. It is about alignment, clarity, and emotional assurance. A successful project is not only one that performs well, but one where the client feels confident, supported, and valued. Over the years, maintaining a friendly, respectful, and honest working environment has helped me build meaningful professional relationships that last.
When a client sets a vision, it becomes a shared mission. Achieving that goal with integrity and strategy is my highest priority. I believe that growth achieved together is stronger than growth achieved alone.
Today, my journey stands as a reminder that careers are not built only on skills, but on values, relationships, and continuous improvement. With a clear vision for the future, I continue to evolve ,learning, adapting, and creating impact through purposeful digital strategies.
Global Platforms, Industry Exposure, and Professional Authority
A significant part of Alfa Bagwan’s professional journey has been shaped by her participation in global industry platforms and high-impact business events. Exposure to international ecosystems provided her with firsthand insight into how visibility operates at scale across technology, business leadership, and digital branding.
She attended GITEX Global in Dubai, one of the world’s largest technology exhibitions, where global innovators, business leaders, and digital strategists come together to discuss future-focused solutions. Being part of this environment allowed her to engage with advanced digital trends and understand how technology-driven visibility influences credibility and growth.
Alfa Bagwan also participated in the 1 Billion Followers Summit, a globally recognized platform that brings together creators, founders, brands, and media leaders. The summit highlighted the growing importance of influence, storytelling, and digital presence in shaping modern success. Through these interactions, she gained deeper insight into how personal and professional visibility directly impacts trust and opportunity.
Her involvement with Forbes 30 Under 30 platforms and associated business forums further positioned her within global conversations around leadership, entrepreneurship, and growth. These platforms reinforced her belief that authority is built through consistent presence, strategic communication, and value-driven visibility.
These global experiences strengthened Alfa Bagwan’s professional credibility and expanded her understanding of how leaders and brands can position themselves effectively in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.
Akshay Kale: Shaping Digital Careers Through Strategy, Insight, and Long-Term Vision
Akshay Kale is a Dubai-based Digital Media Advisor whose career reflects a deep understanding of how digital marketing has evolved from simple promotion to strategic brand positioning. Originally from Latur, Maharashtra, Akshay Kale’s professional journey is defined by continuous learning, global exposure, and a disciplined approach to digital growth.
With a strong academic foundation that includes a Diploma and an MBA in Marketing, Akshay Kale entered the digital space with clarity about branding, consumer psychology, and communication strategy. Rather than viewing digital marketing as a trend-driven field, he approached it as a long-term business function one that requires structure, consistency, and credibility.
A defining aspect of Akshay Kale’s career has been his international exposure. Having traveled across six countries, he gained first-hand insight into how digital strategies vary across markets, cultures, and industries. This exposure helped him understand that successful digital marketing is not about copying formulas, but about adapting strategies based on audience behavior, platform maturity, and business goals.
Throughout his career, Akshay Kale observed a common challenge faced by brands and professionals: chasing short-term visibility without building long-term digital value. This realization shaped his professional philosophy. He believes digital marketing should focus on building trust, authority, and relevance not just followers, likes, or impressions. According to him, true digital success lies in positioning, consistency, and clear messaging over time.
Currently based in Dubai, Akshay Kale works with Pride as a Digital Media Advisor. In this role, he advises entrepreneurs, professionals, and brands on digital positioning, content strategy, social media growth, and sustainable online presence. His work goes beyond execution, focusing on strategic direction, brand clarity, and long-term digital identity.
Akshay Kale emphasizes that digital marketing today is less about aggressive promotion and more about meaningful communication. He advocates for content that educates, builds credibility, and aligns with real-world value. His approach integrates analytics with human behavior, ensuring that digital strategies remain both data-driven and authentic.
Abhishek Patil: A Professional Defined by Strategy, Consistency, and Purposeful Work
In an industry often driven by trends and short term visibility, Abhishek Patil stands out for his disciplined, people first approach to professional growth. His work reflects a belief that sustainable success is built not through shortcuts, but through clarity, consistency, and strong values.
Abhishek Patil’s professional style is rooted in deep understanding rather than surface level execution. Before initiating any campaign or strategy, he focuses on understanding the core identity of the brand or individual he works with. This emphasis on clarity allows his work to feel authentic, aligned, and impactful rather than generic or forced.
What makes Abhishek Patil’s approach unique is his ability to combine structured systems with creative thinking. He follows a methodical process that includes planning, audience analysis, execution, and continuous improvement. This system driven mindset helps him deliver steady results instead of temporary spikes, making his work reliable and scalable.
Colleagues and seniors describe him as someone who values communication and accountability. He prioritizes clear discussions, realistic expectations, and honest feedback qualities that help build trust within teams and professional relationships. His ability to align with leadership while remaining execution focused has played a key role in his professional progress.
Another defining aspect of Abhishek Patil’s work ethic is his commitment to continuous learning. In a constantly evolving digital environment, he actively studies changing platforms, user behavior, and emerging strategies. Rather than resisting change, he adapts quickly, ensuring that his work remains relevant and effective.
Beyond technical skills, Abhishek Patil is known for his strong professional discipline. Punctuality, responsibility, and ownership are non-negotiable in his work culture. He treats every assignment as a reflection of his personal and professional identity, which drives him to maintain high standards consistently.
Equally important is his people centric mindset. Abhishek Patil believes that long term success is achieved when individuals and teams grow together. He is known for supporting colleagues, sharing insights, and contributing to a positive work environment that enhance collaboration and performance.
Abhishek Patil’s professional journey reflects a balance of intent and execution. His uniqueness lies not in being the loudest voice, but in being deliberate, disciplined, and value driven. As his career continues to evolve, he remains focused on creating meaningful impact, building trust, and delivering work defined by integrity and purpose.
Abhijit Mahankale : Experience of 1 Billion Followers Summit
Success is often seen as a destination, but in reality, it is a long journey shaped by struggle, discipline, and consistency. My career growth did not begin with privilege or opportunity, it began with responsibility, hard work, and the decision to keep moving forward despite limitations.
I come from Mahankale Wadgaon, a small village in the Ahilya Nagar district. Life there was simple but demanding. Limited resources and daily responsibilities taught me early that effort was not optional. Those early experiences shaped my mindset long before my professional journey began.
My home environment played a major role in building my character. Watching my mother work tirelessly every day taught me discipline and resilience. Helping her with household responsibilities became my first lesson in accountability. There were no spoken lessons only action. That silent work ethic became the foundation of my success.
The Journey That Tested and Trained Me
My education began at a Municipal Corporation School, where facilities were limited but determination was strong. Balancing studies with responsibilities at home was challenging, but it taught me time management and mental strength. I learned early that progress requires sacrifice and consistency.
College life brought both opportunity and fear. One of my biggest challenges was traveling nearly 20 kilometers every day from my village to college. Long travel hours, crowded buses, physical exhaustion, and financial pressure tested my limits daily. Money was always a concern, and every expense had to be carefully managed.
There was a point when quitting felt easier than continuing. That moment became a turning point. I realized that giving up would only make the struggle permanent. I chose discipline over excuses and decided to continue, no matter how difficult the journey became.
To support myself financially, I joined the Earn and Learn Scheme. Balancing work, studies, and travel pushed me to my limits, but it taught me independence, responsibility, and self-respect. This phase strengthened my work ethic and prepared me for professional life.
How Discipline and Service Built Leadership
Another major transformation came through my involvement in the National Service Scheme (NSS). NSS taught me service, leadership, teamwork, and humility. Living and working in disciplined environments helped me develop people management and communication skills. I learned that leadership is about responsibility, not authority.
A Journey That Changed More Than My Career
When I entered the professional world as a Social Media Adviser, I carried these lessons with me. Coming from a rural background, I knew respect would not come from my past, but from my performance. I focused on consistency, learning, discipline, and ownership of work. Over time, my efforts earned trust and respect.
The most meaningful success for me was not just professional growth, but personal transformation. Returning to my village, I realized that my journey itself had become a source of inspiration for others. My success was not sudden, it was built slowly, through effort and endurance.
When Struggle Becomes the Training Ground for Success
My journey proves one truth: struggle is not an obstacle to success; it is preparation for it. Discipline, consistency, and resilience turned challenges into stepping stones and effort into growth.
Tejaswini Mishal: The Power of Consistency in Career Growth
Tejaswini Mishal demonstrates the power of consistency in building a successful career. She approaches her work with dedication, focusing on completing tasks accurately and efficiently. Her methodical mindset ensures that processes run smoothly and goals are achieved without unnecessary stress.
Her professional journey highlights the importance of steady effort, learning from experiences, and adapting to new challenges. Tejaswini combines technical knowledge with practical skills, making her a reliable and resourceful contributor in any work environment.
Through her consistent approach, calm demeanor, and commitment to growth, Tejaswini Mishal shows that long-term success is built not on shortcuts, but on persistent effort, focus, and continuous improvement.