Press Release
HELP Awards 2025 Celebrate Global Volunteers and Community Unity at Scientology Church in Dublin
DUBLIN EVENT HONORS HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS ACROSS 11 COUNTRIES
DUBLIN, IRELAND — Under the banner of International Volunteer Recognition Day, the 2025 HELP Awards illuminated the power of collective action, honoring over 20 individuals and organizations whose dedication to service bridges cultures and continents. Hosted at the Church of Scientology & Community Centre of Dublin, the ceremony celebrated volunteers from 11 countries across three continents, showcasing stories of resilience, inclusion, and hope.
“Tonight, we honour the quiet heroes, the loud champions, and everyone in between who go the extra mile for others—because it’s the right thing to do,” said Asia Kuzma, Community Relations Officer at the Church of Scientology, in her opening remarks. The event, established in 2019 by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers in Ireland, has grown into an annual tradition recognizing grassroots changemakers.
A Tapestry of Service: Stories of Impact
The evening highlighted diverse efforts, from humanitarian crises to cultural preservation. Among the honorees was Zak Moradi, a Kurdish-Irish hurler championing inclusion through sport. His initiative, Hurling Without Borders , has trained over 500 participants from refugee backgrounds in Ireland, using the traditional Irish game as a tool for integration and teamwork. “Sport breaks barriers,” Moradi said. “When we play together, we learn to trust each other.”
Ibrahim Halawa, a human rights lawyer and former prisoner of conscience, was recognized for his work defending marginalized communities. Released after nearly seven years in Egyptian detention in 2022, Halawa now leads the Justice for All campaign, providing legal aid to asylum seekers in Ireland and advocating for international human rights reforms. “Volunteering isn’t just about time—it’s about standing up when it matters,” he stated.
Lassane Ouedraogo, Chairperson of the Africa Centre, was lauded for fostering cross-cultural dialogue through educational programs and refugee support services. The center’s Bridging Generations project connects African elders with youth to preserve heritage while navigating modern challenges. Meanwhile, Susuana Komolafe, founder of the Afro in Diaspora Centre, received praise for her Roots & Wings initiative, which offers mental health workshops and leadership training to Black Irish youth. “We’re creating spaces where people feel seen,” Komolafe remarked.
Global Resilience: From Disasters to Daily Acts
The Volunteer Ministers of the Czech Republic received the first international HELP Award for their response to September 2024 floods, which displaced hundreds in Central Europe. Trained at the Dublin center, the team mobilized within hours, coordinating shelter, food distribution, and post-disaster counseling. Their efforts included rebuilding homes for 120 families in Prague’s hardest-hit neighborhoods. “When disaster strikes, every second counts,” said team leader Martina Novak. “Our training prepared us to act fast—and to bring hope when it’s needed most.”
Closer to home, John Korah Chandy was honored for his decade-long commitment to Ireland’s migrant communities, offering free English classes and job readiness workshops. Yanni Hatz, a retired teacher, volunteers with Books for All , delivering literacy programs to rural schools. Alan and Siobhan Ryan’s Green Roots initiative has planted over 10,000 native trees in urban areas, while Sergiy Mas’s TechBridge project provides digital skills to seniors, closing the tech gap.
The mother-and-daughter duo Avalon and Yara Juffart were recognized for their Youth for Change mentorship program, which pairs teenagers with local nonprofits. “Young people aren’t just the future—they’re the now ,” said Avalon, age 16. Maria Bunici, accepting her award, dedicated it to her late mother, who volunteered for a hospice for 25 years. “Her kindness taught me that small acts create ripples,” Bunici said.
Cultural Bridges and Artistic Activism
Community groups promoting culture and heritage as a means of integration were also acknowledged. The Innovative Business Club (IBC) supports immigrant entrepreneurs through startup grants and networking, while The Sudanese Community in Ireland organizes cultural festivals that draw thousands annually. VOLA Enable empowers neurodivergent individuals through art therapy, and Moldova Vision connects diaspora volunteers with projects in their homeland.
Krishna Academy of Social Sciences (KASSI) and the Confederation of Indian Communities in Ireland (CICI) were praised for preserving traditions while fostering intergenerational dialogue. CICI’s Diwali for All event, which welcomes 2,000 attendees yearly, includes food drives and storytelling sessions. Marathi Mandal Ireland’s Language of Unity workshops teach Marathi to children of Indian expats, ensuring cultural continuity.
Artists who use their talents for charitable causes were spotlighted as well. Musician Ken Tuohy’s charity concerts have raised €200,000 for housing initiatives, while playwright Frank Allen’s Voices Unheard series amplifies working-class narratives through community theater. Five-time Oireachtas na Gaeilge winner Noel O’Grady was honored for blending traditional Gaelic singing with outreach programs for at-risk youth.
Unity in Action: A Community Built on Collaboration
Councillor Francis Timmons, a past HELP Award recipient and advocate for Dublin’s homeless, presented a Letter of Appreciation to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. “Your outreach reflects a true spirit of selfless service,” he said. “Even though the world feels more divided than ever, we have here under one roof people from all cultures working together in peace. That is powerful!”
Timmons, who co-founded a shelter serving 300 meals daily, praised the Church’s year-round partnerships. The Dublin center’s Youth for Human Rights program, which reaches 1,500 students annually, teaches tolerance through interactive workshops. Its Truth About Drugs initiative has reduced substance abuse rates in participating schools by 30%.
The event, described by attendees as “electric” and “deeply moving,” emphasized cross-cultural collaboration. Diana Stahl, Director of Public Affairs at the Church of Scientology, presented awards alongside past recipients, including filmmaker Robby Walsh and traditional musician Tommy Breen. Guests explored volunteering opportunities with NGOs like Amnesty International and the Red Cross, while youth delegates from 10 countries shared ideas at a post-event summit.
Scientology’s Expanding Role in Global Humanitarianism
Since opening in 2017, Dublin’s Church of Scientology & Community Centre has become a hub for initiatives spanning drug prevention, environmental awareness, and human rights education. The late L. Ron Hubbard, who launched humanitarian programs from Dublin’s Merrion Square in 1956, envisioned Scientology churches as community pillars—a mission now echoed globally.
Scientology’s growing recognition as a religion continues to gain momentum, with increasing collaboration across faiths and governments. Ivan Arjona, Scientology Representative to the European Union and United Nations, emphasized its universal ethos: “Scientology’s core principle—helping others—is a bridge that unites humanity. Our work with communities worldwide proves that when we stand together, we create lasting change.”
Arjona highlighted recent partnerships, like a human rights training program for educators across Europe, drug prevention activities and events at UNODC and Freedom of Relgion or Belief at the United Nations Geneva. “Religious freedom isn’t just about belief—it’s about action,” he added. “Every day, Scientologists demonstrate that through service.”
From local volunteers to international responders, the 2025 HELP Awards reaffirmed the transformative power of service—one act, one community, and one shared vision at a time. As Asia Kuzma concluded, “This isn’t just a celebration. It’s a call to action. Because when we give our time, we give the greatest gift of all: hope.”
Company Details
| Organization: European Office Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights |
| Contact Person Name: Ivan Arjona |
| Website: https://www.scientologyeurope.org |
| Email: scientology@europeanaffairs.eu |
| Address: Boulevard de Waterloo 103 |
| City: Brussels |
| State: Brussels |
| Country: Belgium |
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
Dubai Electronic Security Center to Showcase Cybersecurity Initiatives at GISEC 2025 as Official Government Partner
- DESC will highlight its role in advancing Dubai’s cybersecurity ecosystem and strengthening Dubai’s digital infrastructure
- The Center will showcase strategic initiatives designed to empower the next generation of cybersecurity talent
- H.E. Al Shaibani: “We are committed to strengthening the cybersecurity ecosystem and building strategic partnerships across the public and private sectors.”
Dubai, UAE, 3rd May 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, The Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) is set to participate as the official government cybersecurity partner for the eighth consecutive year in the 14th edition of the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC Global 2025), taking place from May 6-8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The Center’s participation in GISEC Global 2025, which gathers over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals representing more than 160 countries, aligns with its strategic objectives aimed at advancing the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy and reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s digitally safest cities. This participation reflects the Center’s commitment to safeguarding digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, enhancing cyber resilience, and promoting robust cooperation at both the local and international levels.
During the three-day event, DESC will spotlight a number of key initiatives, including the “Dubai Cyber Challenge”, an exclusive competitive simulation designed to enhance the cyber readiness of Dubai government entities, and the “School of Cyber Defense” CTF competition, which attracted registrations from over 300 university students, engaging them in technical challenges and hands-on training. These programs form a key part of DESC’s ongoing efforts to build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals equipped to navigate evolving digital threats.
H.E. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, CEO of the Dubai Electronic Security Center, commented:
“DESC’s participation in GISEC Global 2025 reflects our steadfast commitment to securing Dubai’s digital future through proactive cybersecurity measures, innovation-driven initiatives, and an integrated ecosystem that fosters collaboration by building partnerships across public and private sectors. GISEC continues to serve as a dynamic platform where industry leaders, experts, and innovators come together to shape the future of cybersecurity.”
“GISEC 2025 provides a critical platform for strategic engagement with global cybersecurity innovators, allowing us to gain insights into emerging technologies and anticipate future threats. These interactions directly support our efforts to create forward-looking policies, develop advanced cyber solutions, and empower national talent to lead in this field. Through such initiatives, we continue to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for cybersecurity excellence and digital innovation,” Al Shaibani added.
DESC experts will also take part in high-level panel discussions addressing key challenges and emerging trends in the cybersecurity landscape. The Center will also formalize strategic partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing cross-sector collaboration and strengthening national efforts to secure the cyber space.
Visitors to GISEC Global 2025 are invited to explore DESC’s initiatives at Stand A80 in Hall 7, where DESC will showcase its latest projects, including future-ready cybersecurity guidelines and certification programs designed to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape and strengthen national capabilities. The stand will also serve as a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with DESC’s experts and explore opportunities for joint collaboration.
Secure your pass and learn more: GISEC GLOBAL | The World’s Leading Cyber Security Exhibition | 6 – 8 May 2025
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
NSW, Australia, 3rd May 2025 – Dr. Katie Zippel, a respected general practitioner and DPhil candidate at Oxford University, has introduced pioneering research that sheds light on the role of social prescribing in cancer care. Her latest study, soon to be published in a leading peer-reviewed journal, highlights how non-medical interventions can significantly enhance the well-being and long-term health outcomes of individuals living with cancer.
With both professional expertise and personal experience as a breast cancer survivor, Dr. Zippel brings a unique perspective to this research. Her study explores how integrating social support systems, lifestyle medicine, and community-driven initiatives into primary healthcare can improve the overall survivorship experience for cancer patients.
Social prescribing is a revolutionary healthcare approach that enables medical professionals to refer patients to non-medical services that support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. These services include arts-based therapies, exercise programmes, gardening projects, and community-based support groups.
Dr. Zippel’s research emphasizes that cancer treatment should go beyond conventional medicine and include holistic interventions that help patients cope with the psychological and social challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Her study presents strong evidence that structured social prescribing programmes significantly reduce stress, enhance emotional resilience, and improve overall quality of life.
Key Findings from the Research
Dr. Zippel’s study explores the tangible benefits of social prescribing by analysing patient experiences across various healthcare settings, including hospitals and community clinics. The research identifies several key findings that underscore the impact of these programmes:
- Improved Mental Health: Patients engaged in social prescribing activities reported a 40% decrease in anxiety and depression symptoms compared to those receiving conventional treatment alone.
- Stronger Social Connections: Over 70% of participants noted significant improvements in social engagement, reducing their sense of isolation.
- Enhanced Physical Well-being: Patients who participated in prescribed exercise programmes experienced increased mobility, better energy levels, and overall improved health.
- Better Treatment Adherence: Patients involved in non-medical support activities demonstrated greater commitment to their medical treatments and healthier lifestyle choices.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: Individuals participating in social prescribing programmes were more likely to maintain a healthier lifestyle post-treatment, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
Bridging the Gap Between Medicine and Community Support
One of the core messages of Dr. Zippel’s research is the importance of bridging clinical medicine with community-based support systems. While medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation are essential in combating cancer, addressing the social determinants of health—such as loneliness, mental well-being, and financial stress—can play an equally crucial role in recovery.
A key innovation within Dr. Zippel’s work is her focus on narrative medicine, an approach that utilises storytelling to foster understanding, connection, and empowerment among cancer patients. By encouraging patients to share their experiences, she is helping create a more compassionate and patient-centred healthcare model.
A Global Call for Change in Cancer Survivorship Care
The findings from Dr. Zippel’s research have far-reaching implications for healthcare policies worldwide. As medical systems search for sustainable ways to improve cancer survivorship care, her work provides strong evidence supporting the expansion of social prescribing initiatives.
Going forward, Dr. Zippel aims to collaborate with global healthcare providers and policymakers to integrate social prescribing into mainstream medical practices, ensuring more patients have access to holistic, community-driven care.
A Personal Mission for Healthcare Innovation
For Dr. Zippel, this research is more than an academic pursuit—it is a deeply personal mission. As a breast cancer survivor, she understands firsthand the challenges of navigating treatment and recovery. Her lived experience has inspired her dedication to advancing equitable healthcare solutions, particularly for underserved and rural communities.
Beyond research, Dr. Zippel is actively engaged in primary healthcare delivery as part of a multidisciplinary team. Her work spans rural general practice, mental health support, and public health research, all aimed at bridging clinical medicine with social support systems to improve patient outcomes.
A Vision for Holistic Wellness
Through her online platform and research initiatives, Dr. Zippel explores the connection between daily habits, community engagement, and overall health. She shares insights on lifestyle medicine, disease prevention, and the power of human connection in healthcare. Her blog serves as an educational hub, featuring personal narratives, health education posts, and evidence-based research from leading medical journals.
To further her mission, Dr. Zippel plans to introduce video content and interactive discussions, allowing patients and healthcare professionals to engage with her research more directly. By blending storytelling with science, she hopes to make medical knowledge more accessible and relatable.
Join the Movement: Advocating for Social Prescribing
Dr. Katie Zippel’s groundbreaking research is leading a global shift in how cancer care is approached. She urges healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers to recognise the transformative impact of social prescribing in improving cancer survivorship.
By advocating for these innovative, community-centred healthcare solutions, Dr. Zippel is setting the stage for a future where cancer care is not only about medical treatment but also about fostering holistic healing and support networks that prioritise the well-being of every patient.
About Dr. Katie Zippel
Dr. Katie Zippel is a highly regarded general practitioner and a DPhil candidate at Oxford University, specialising in social prescribing for cancer care. Her work is rooted in evidence-based healthcare, lifestyle medicine, and patient-centred approaches, particularly in rural and remote areas. Through her research and advocacy, she continues to drive a global movement towards more compassionate and inclusive healthcare practices.
Media Contact
Organization: Dr. Katherine Zippel PTY LTD
Contact Person: Suzie Green
Website: https://katiezippel.com
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +61474932326
Address:81-83 Campbell Street, Surry Hills, NSW, 2010
City: NSW
Country:Australia
Release id:27268
The post Dr. Katie Zippel Unveils Pioneering Research on Social Prescribing for Cancer Care appeared first on King Newswire. It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
NSW, Australia, 3rd May 2025 – Dr. Katie Zippel, a respected general practitioner and DPhil candidate at Oxford University, has introduced pioneering research that sheds light on the role of social prescribing in cancer care. Her latest study, soon to be published in a leading peer-reviewed journal, highlights how non-medical interventions can significantly enhance the well-being and long-term health outcomes of individuals living with cancer.
With both professional expertise and personal experience as a breast cancer survivor, Dr. Zippel brings a unique perspective to this research. Her study explores how integrating social support systems, lifestyle medicine, and community-driven initiatives into primary healthcare can improve the overall survivorship experience for cancer patients.
Social prescribing is a revolutionary healthcare approach that enables medical professionals to refer patients to non-medical services that support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. These services include arts-based therapies, exercise programmes, gardening projects, and community-based support groups.
Dr. Zippel’s research emphasizes that cancer treatment should go beyond conventional medicine and include holistic interventions that help patients cope with the psychological and social challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Her study presents strong evidence that structured social prescribing programmes significantly reduce stress, enhance emotional resilience, and improve overall quality of life.
Key Findings from the Research
Dr. Zippel’s study explores the tangible benefits of social prescribing by analysing patient experiences across various healthcare settings, including hospitals and community clinics. The research identifies several key findings that underscore the impact of these programmes:
- Improved Mental Health: Patients engaged in social prescribing activities reported a 40% decrease in anxiety and depression symptoms compared to those receiving conventional treatment alone.
- Stronger Social Connections: Over 70% of participants noted significant improvements in social engagement, reducing their sense of isolation.
- Enhanced Physical Well-being: Patients who participated in prescribed exercise programmes experienced increased mobility, better energy levels, and overall improved health.
- Better Treatment Adherence: Patients involved in non-medical support activities demonstrated greater commitment to their medical treatments and healthier lifestyle choices.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: Individuals participating in social prescribing programmes were more likely to maintain a healthier lifestyle post-treatment, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
Bridging the Gap Between Medicine and Community Support
One of the core messages of Dr. Zippel’s research is the importance of bridging clinical medicine with community-based support systems. While medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation are essential in combating cancer, addressing the social determinants of health—such as loneliness, mental well-being, and financial stress—can play an equally crucial role in recovery.
A key innovation within Dr. Zippel’s work is her focus on narrative medicine, an approach that utilises storytelling to foster understanding, connection, and empowerment among cancer patients. By encouraging patients to share their experiences, she is helping create a more compassionate and patient-centred healthcare model.
A Global Call for Change in Cancer Survivorship Care
The findings from Dr. Zippel’s research have far-reaching implications for healthcare policies worldwide. As medical systems search for sustainable ways to improve cancer survivorship care, her work provides strong evidence supporting the expansion of social prescribing initiatives.
Going forward, Dr. Zippel aims to collaborate with global healthcare providers and policymakers to integrate social prescribing into mainstream medical practices, ensuring more patients have access to holistic, community-driven care.
A Personal Mission for Healthcare Innovation
For Dr. Zippel, this research is more than an academic pursuit—it is a deeply personal mission. As a breast cancer survivor, she understands firsthand the challenges of navigating treatment and recovery. Her lived experience has inspired her dedication to advancing equitable healthcare solutions, particularly for underserved and rural communities.
Beyond research, Dr. Zippel is actively engaged in primary healthcare delivery as part of a multidisciplinary team. Her work spans rural general practice, mental health support, and public health research, all aimed at bridging clinical medicine with social support systems to improve patient outcomes.
A Vision for Holistic Wellness
Through her online platform and research initiatives, Dr. Zippel explores the connection between daily habits, community engagement, and overall health. She shares insights on lifestyle medicine, disease prevention, and the power of human connection in healthcare. Her blog serves as an educational hub, featuring personal narratives, health education posts, and evidence-based research from leading medical journals.
To further her mission, Dr. Zippel plans to introduce video content and interactive discussions, allowing patients and healthcare professionals to engage with her research more directly. By blending storytelling with science, she hopes to make medical knowledge more accessible and relatable.
Join the Movement: Advocating for Social Prescribing
Dr. Katie Zippel’s groundbreaking research is leading a global shift in how cancer care is approached. She urges healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers to recognise the transformative impact of social prescribing in improving cancer survivorship.
By advocating for these innovative, community-centred healthcare solutions, Dr. Zippel is setting the stage for a future where cancer care is not only about medical treatment but also about fostering holistic healing and support networks that prioritise the well-being of every patient.
About Dr. Katie Zippel
Dr. Katie Zippel is a highly regarded general practitioner and a DPhil candidate at Oxford University, specialising in social prescribing for cancer care. Her work is rooted in evidence-based healthcare, lifestyle medicine, and patient-centred approaches, particularly in rural and remote areas. Through her research and advocacy, she continues to drive a global movement towards more compassionate and inclusive healthcare practices.
Media Contact
Organization: Dr. Katherine Zippel PTY LTD
Contact Person: Suzie Green
Website: https://katiezippel.com
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +61474932326
Address:81-83 Campbell Street, Surry Hills, NSW, 2010
City: NSW
Country:Australia
Release id:27268
The post Dr. Katie Zippel Unveils Pioneering Research on Social Prescribing for Cancer Care appeared first on King Newswire. It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Dubai Electronic Security Center to Showcase Cybersecurity Initiatives at GISEC 2025 as Official Government Partner
Dr. Katie Zippel Unveils Pioneering Research on Social Prescribing for Cancer Care
Dr. Katie Zippel Unveils Pioneering Research on Social Prescribing for Cancer Care
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