Valorant Champions bracket – Paris 2025

The 2025 VCT season is culminating with **Champions**, a global tournament featuring the best players that Valorant has to offer. As the competition heats up in Paris, you can stay updated with the Valorant Champions Bracket to keep track of the standings and scores in Valorant’s biggest tournament.

### Valorant Champions Paris Bracket

Below is the current bracket for VCT Champions Paris. We will continue to update it as more games are played and teams advance through the stages. The bracket is maintained and regularly updated by Riot Games on the official Valorant esports website.

The upper bracket features Valorant heavyweights such as **NRG** and **FNATIC**, who are set to face off on Friday, October 3.

### How to Watch

Matches can be watched live on the official Valorant Twitch channel. If you miss any of the live action, replays are available after the day’s competition concludes, allowing you to catch up at your convenience.

Stay tuned for more updates and follow all the exciting moments as the battle for the VCT Champions title unfolds in Paris!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146149/valorant-champions-bracket-2025-vct

Valorant Champions bracket – Paris 2025

The 2025 VCT season is reaching its climax with Champions, a global tournament showcasing the best players that Valorant has to offer. As the competition intensifies in Paris, you can stay up to date with the standings and scores using the Valorant Champions Bracket.

**Valorant Champions Paris Bracket**

Here is the current bracket for VCT Champions Paris. We will continue to update it as more games are played and teams advance throughout the tournament. The bracket is maintained by Riot Games and is kept up to date on the official Valorant esports website.

The upper bracket features Valorant heavyweights such as NRG and FNATIC, who are set to face off on Friday, October 3. Fans can watch all matches live on the Valorant Twitch channel. Additionally, matches are rerun after the day’s competition concludes, providing multiple opportunities to catch the action.

Stay tuned and follow along as Valorant’s biggest tournament unfolds in Paris!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146149/valorant-champions-bracket-2025-vct

‘Black Panther’: The film that put Africa on futuristic map

# ‘Black Panther’: The Film That Put Africa on the Futuristic Map
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 03:58 PM*

The 2018 blockbuster *Black Panther* redefined the portrayal of African culture and technology, offering the world a vivid glimpse into an Afro-futuristic vision. Through its depiction of the fictional nation of Wakanda—boasting advanced technology and a rich cultural heritage—the film challenged long-standing stereotypes and presented a unique blend of tradition and innovation. This article explores how *Black Panther* reshaped Afro-futurism through its visual storytelling, character development, and cultural impact.

## Wakanda’s Technological Marvels

Wakanda’s advanced technology was a central element in redefining Afro-futurism. The film showcased the fictional metal vibranium’s extraordinary potential to power cities, heal injuries, and enhance everyday life. This portrayal challenged outdated notions by highlighting the possibility of African nations leading global technological advancements rather than being depicted as primitive or underdeveloped. By focusing on innovation rooted deeply in African culture, *Black Panther* opened new perspectives on what an African future could look like.

## Cultural Heritage Meets Modernity

*Black Panther* beautifully blended cultural heritage with modernity. Traditional African attire, music, and rituals were presented alongside futuristic designs and innovations. This duality demonstrated that cultural identity and progressiveness are not mutually exclusive. Embracing one’s heritage does not mean rejecting modernity; instead, integrating both can create a holistic and dynamic identity.

## Empowering Narratives Through Characters

The film’s characters played a pivotal role in redefining Afro-futurism by embodying empowerment and leadership. T’Challa’s journey as a king who balances tradition with progress resonated with audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, Shuri’s portrayal as a brilliant scientist challenged gender norms within African narratives and served as an inspiring role model. These characters defied stereotypes while promoting themes of unity, strength, and resilience.

## Global Impact on Perceptions of Africa

Beyond cinema, *Black Panther* had a profound global impact on how Africa is perceived. It sparked important conversations about representation, identity, and cultural pride on an international scale. The film’s unprecedented success proved that stories rooted in African experiences could resonate universally when told authentically with powerful visuals and narratives. This shift has since inspired other filmmakers to explore similar themes, broadening the scope of African stories told worldwide.

*Black Panther* not only entertained millions but also transformed the narrative around Africa’s future—celebrating its heritage while imagining limitless possibilities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-panther-redefined-afro-futurism/story

‘Black Panther’: The film that put Africa on futuristic map

**’Black Panther’: The Film That Put Africa on the Futuristic Map**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 03:58 pm*

The 2018 blockbuster *Black Panther* fundamentally redefined the portrayal of African culture and technology, providing the world with a vivid glimpse into an Afro-futuristic vision. Through its depiction of the fictional nation of Wakanda—an advanced society rich in cultural heritage—the film challenged prevailing stereotypes and showcased a unique fusion of tradition and innovation. This article explores how *Black Panther* reshaped Afro-futurism through its visual storytelling, character development, and cultural impact.

### Wakanda’s Technological Marvels

At the heart of *Black Panther*’s Afro-futuristic narrative lies Wakanda’s groundbreaking technology. The film introduced vibranium, a powerful resource capable of energizing entire cities, healing injuries, and enhancing daily life. This portrayal challenged conventional depictions of Africa by positioning an African nation as a leader in technological innovation rather than as primitive or underdeveloped. By rooting its futuristic advancements deeply in African culture, *Black Panther* revolutionized perceptions of what an African future could realistically look like.

### Cultural Heritage Meets Modernity

*Black Panther* masterfully blended rich cultural heritage with modernity. Traditional African attire, music, and rituals featured prominently alongside futuristic designs and innovations, illustrating a dynamic interplay between the old and the new. This duality emphasized how cultural identity can coexist harmoniously with progress, underscoring the idea that honoring one’s heritage need not contradict embracing modern advancements. Instead, the film presents an integrated, holistic vision of identity.

### Empowering Narratives Through Characters

The film’s characters played a pivotal role in redefining Afro-futurism by embodying empowerment and leadership. T’Challa’s journey as a king balancing tradition with forward-thinking ideals resonated globally, while Shuri’s character—a brilliant scientist—challenged gender norms within African narratives. Together, these characters defied stereotypes and offered powerful role models, promoting themes of unity, strength, and resilience.

### Global Impact on Perceptions of Africa

Beyond its success as a cinematic achievement, *Black Panther* had a transformative impact on global perceptions of Africa. It sparked meaningful conversations about representation, identity, and cultural pride on an international scale. The film’s authentic storytelling and compelling visuals demonstrated that narratives rooted in African experiences could engage universal audiences. This paradigm shift has inspired other filmmakers to explore similar themes, further expanding the reach of Afro-futurism in storytelling.

*Black Panther* remains a landmark film that not only entertained millions but also reimagined Africa’s place on the map of the future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-panther-redefined-afro-futurism/story

‘Black Panther’: The film that put Africa on futuristic map

**‘Black Panther’: The Film That Put Africa on the Futuristic Map**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 03:58 pm*

The 2018 blockbuster *Black Panther* redefined the portrayal of African culture and technology, giving the world a vivid glimpse of an Afro-futuristic vision. The movie’s depiction of the fictional nation of Wakanda—with its advanced technology and rich cultural heritage—challenged longstanding stereotypes by showcasing a unique blend of tradition and innovation. This article explores how *Black Panther* reshaped Afro-futurism through its visual storytelling, character development, and cultural impact.

### Wakanda’s Technological Marvels

A cornerstone of the film’s Afro-futuristic vision was Wakanda’s groundbreaking technology. The story highlighted vibranium’s immense potential to power cities, heal injuries, and enhance everyday life. Rather than depicting African nations as primitive or underdeveloped, *Black Panther* positioned them as leaders in technological advancement. By rooting innovation within African culture, the film redefined global perceptions of what an African future could look like—one filled with promise, progress, and ingenuity.

### Cultural Heritage Meets Modernity

*Black Panther* masterfully blended cultural heritage with modernity. Traditional African attire, music, and rituals featured prominently alongside futuristic designs and cutting-edge innovations. This fusion emphasized that cultural identity and progressiveness are not mutually exclusive. Instead, the film demonstrated that embracing one’s heritage can harmoniously coexist with—and even inspire—modern advancements, crafting a holistic and empowering identity.

### Empowering Narratives Through Characters

The characters of *Black Panther* played a pivotal role in redefining Afro-futurism by embodying empowerment and leadership. T’Challa’s journey as a king balancing tradition with progress struck a chord worldwide, while Shuri’s portrayal as a brilliant scientist challenged gender norms within African narratives. These characters served as inspiring role models, shattering stereotypes and promoting themes of unity, strength, and resilience.

### Global Impact on Perceptions of Africa

Beyond cinema, *Black Panther* sparked a global shift in how Africa is perceived. The film ignited important conversations about representation, identity, and cultural pride on an international scale. Its widespread success proved that stories rooted deeply in African experiences can resonate universally when told authentically and visually powerfully. This transformation in perception has since encouraged other filmmakers to explore similar themes, broadening the scope of Afro-futuristic storytelling.

*Black Panther* not only entertained millions but also opened new pathways for imagining Africa’s future—one where culture, innovation, and empowerment go hand in hand.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-panther-redefined-afro-futurism/story

Tata Motors shares jump as JLR bags $2B government loan

**Tata Motors Shares Surge as Jaguar Land Rover Secures $2 Billion Government-Backed Loan**

*By Mudit Dube | September 29, 2025, 10:55 AM*

Tata Motors witnessed a notable rise in its share price today following the announcement that its subsidiary, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), has secured a $2 billion (1.5 billion GBP) loan. This privately financed loan is guaranteed by the UK’s export credit agency, UK Export Finance.

**Purpose of the Loan**

The financial assistance aims to alleviate the pressure on JLR’s suppliers and support a phased restart of the company’s operations. This move comes in the wake of a cyberattack in August that severely disrupted JLR’s production and IT networks, leading to a complete operational shutdown.

**Operational Impact of the Cyberattack**

Due to the cyberattack, JLR has been forced to halt production longer than initially expected, with shutdowns extending into the coming month. Reports from the Financial Times indicate that JLR could face losses totaling approximately $2 billion, as the company was not insured against such cyber incidents. This significant financial hit threatens to erase JLR’s entire profit for the fiscal year 2025.

Despite these challenges, news of the phased resumption of operations has positively impacted Tata Motors’ stock value, with shares rising by 1.45% to 673.95 per share on Friday.

**Financial Strategy and Government Support**

The UK government has confirmed that JLR will repay the £1.5 billion loan over a five-year period. The funds were arranged through a commercial bank and are secured by UK Export Finance. This strategic financial support forms part of broader efforts to assist JLR’s suppliers, many of whom have faced operational disruptions and delayed payments due to the cyberattack.

The government-backed loan and the gradual reopening of JLR’s operations are critical steps toward stabilizing the firm and mitigating the fallout from one of the most challenging incidents in its recent history.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/tata-motors-shares-jump-as-jlr-secures-2b-government-loan/story

XRP Price Prediction: Buy Signals Flash Before a Potential 220% Breakout

**XRP Targets $10 Amid Technical and Institutional Signals, While MAGACOIN FINANCE Emerges as a Fastest-Growing Crypto Project of 2025**

XRP has spent the past several weeks consolidating below the $2.90 mark, holding relatively steady despite broader market volatility. Analysts are now pointing to technical and institutional catalysts that could fuel a dramatic move higher. Some chartists believe the token is preparing for a rally of more than 220%, potentially sending prices to nearly $10 if current conditions hold.

At the same time, retail excitement is flowing into new opportunities outside established tokens. MAGACOIN FINANCE has been flagged as one of the fastest-growing projects of 2025, thanks to its record-breaking raise of over $15 million.

### Technical Signals Point to Upside

Prominent trader Javon Marks sees XRP in the early stages of a bullish setup similar to past accumulation phases that preceded major rallies. Based on his chart analysis, the consolidation above $3 could be the base for a surge toward $9.90, representing gains of more than 220% from current levels. Marks further suggests that if momentum extends beyond the initial breakout, XRP could eventually target levels as high as $20—a price point not seen in its history.

Supporting this view, Ali Martinez, another widely followed analyst, has identified a fresh buy signal using the TD Sequential indicator, a technical tool designed to highlight trend reversals. Martinez argues that buyers appear to be regaining control after weeks of sideways movement and that XRP is gearing up to challenge resistance zones in the near term.

### Consolidation as the Calm Before the Storm

Despite brief dips from recent highs, XRP’s ability to maintain support above $3 has encouraged many analysts to frame this period as healthy consolidation. The market is closely watching whether bulls can push the token convincingly through resistance levels, which could act as the spark for the next leg upward.

Traders remain cautious but optimistic. With volume patterns aligning with historical breakouts, XRP’s price action suggests the next move could be substantial.

### Spotlight Turns to New Altcoin Opportunity: MAGACOIN FINANCE

While XRP sets the stage for a potential breakout, MAGACOIN FINANCE is dominating headlines in presale markets. The project has surpassed $15 million in funding, breaking records and attracting both retail buyers and large investors.

Security audits by HashEx and CertiK have boosted confidence further, placing the token in rare company among new launches. Analysts argue that MAGACOIN FINANCE offers something distinct during this bull run: a mix of explosive growth potential with audited credibility. If adoption continues at its current pace, it could emerge as one of the best-performing crypto assets of 2025.

For investors seeking both stability and high-upside plays, XRP and MAGACOIN FINANCE are increasingly seen as complementary opportunities.

### Institutional Backing Strengthens the XRP Case

Beyond technicals, XRP’s bullish case is reinforced by institutional momentum. The launch of the first U.S.-listed spot XRP ETF has given mainstream investors regulated exposure to the asset—a milestone that many see as a turning point in XRP’s maturity.

Meanwhile, tokenized investment funds built on the XRP Ledger are expanding the token’s role from payments infrastructure into broader on-chain finance. These developments position XRP not just as a bridge currency but as a foundational layer for capital markets.

Adding to this momentum, the CME Group has confirmed plans to roll out futures options tied to XRP and Solana, underscoring growing institutional demand for derivative products. Together, these moves highlight how deeply financial institutions are embedding XRP into their product pipelines.

### A Defining Phase for XRP

The convergence of bullish technical signals and expanding institutional adoption suggests XRP could be entering one of its most significant phases in years. If prices break through resistance convincingly, the path to $10 and beyond may open quickly, especially if ETF inflows accelerate.

For retail investors, the dual narrative is clear: XRP is evolving into an institutional-grade asset with breakout potential, while MAGACOIN FINANCE offers early-stage upside with a proven foundation of audits and record-breaking demand. Both stories reflect how this bull cycle is being shaped by a blend of established strength and rising stars.

### Conclusion

XRP’s technicals and institutional adoption point to a possible breakout rally of more than 220%, with analysts setting ambitious price targets near $10 and even $20 long-term. At the same time, MAGACOIN FINANCE is emerging as one of the fastest-growing projects of 2025, with its $15M+ presale and strong security credentials cementing its place as a retail favorite.

As the crypto market heads deeper into its bullish phase, investors are watching closely to see if these two very different opportunities can define the next wave of growth.

### Learn More About MAGACOIN FINANCE

– **Website:** [Access link here]
– **Twitter/X:** [Link here]
– **Telegram:** [Link here]

*This publication is sponsored. Coindoo does not endorse or assume responsibility for the content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products, or any other materials on this page. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before engaging in any cryptocurrency-related actions. Coindoo will not be liable, directly or indirectly, for any damages or losses resulting from use of or reliance on any content, goods, or services mentioned. Always do your own research.*

### About the Author

**Krasimir Rusev** is a reporter at Coindoo with many years of experience covering cryptocurrencies and financial markets. He specializes in analysis, news, and forecasts for digital assets, providing readers with in-depth and reliable information on the latest market trends. His expertise and professionalism make him a valuable source of information for investors, traders, and anyone following the dynamics of the crypto world.
https://coindoo.com/xrp-price-prediction-buy-signals-flash-before-a-potential-220-breakout/

How starter Mal stayed calm before Cathy Freeman’s winning race

Who could forget the moment 25 years ago when Cathy Freeman crossed the line into history, winning Olympic gold in the 400m at the 2000 Sydney Olympics? For many Australians, that memory remains vivid — but for some, it is even sharper.

Canberra man Mal Davies, now 92, had one of the most important jobs on the track that day. He fired the starting gun, effectively pressing “go” on a nation’s hopes.

“I recall standing near the tunnel where we marched on, just near the finish line,” Mr Davies said. “I can remember looking at my watch and saying, ‘Well, I suppose we had better go and do this then,’ and I was not nervous at all.”

### A False Start Before Glory

Mr Davies got the role after applying to the Olympic organisers. “My allocation was all the women’s events from 400m and up, with the exception of the women’s 10,000m. I got the women’s marathon, which of course started outside the stadium,” he explained.

However, the Olympics didn’t start smoothly for Mr Davies. The very first race he was involved in was delayed.

Originally, starters had two guns — one to start the race and another to fire if there was a false start. By 2000, though, technology had advanced. Starter guns were linked to computers for precise timing, but the protocols remained largely the same.

In the first race, things went awry. “As part of the procedure, when the announcers finished, we blew a whistle to warn everybody it was about to happen. On this occasion, I turned to take the starting gun from the technician, and he was all waving,” said Mr Davies.

“What had happened was a whistle blast had disrupted the computers, so everything had to stop.”

### A Career Made in Australia

Mr Davies reflects that Cathy Freeman’s race was the highlight of his long career as a starter and sports official, following years spent as a teacher and then serving in the Air Force.

“I bought my first starter guns in the 1960s,” he said. But it took many years before he achieved a grade one rating, which cleared the way for his place at the Olympics.

That milestone became possible only after he moved to Australia, where he developed his coaching and sporting official career.

In that capacity, he met Cathy Freeman — the woman who would create his career highlight. They were on the track together for many races over the years, but in the end, there was only one race that truly mattered: Freeman’s Olympic 400m final.

“I can remember standing there and watching the girls come down the final bend, thinking, ‘Goodness gracious me, you are not winning, come on!’ And of course, it all happened.”

Despite sharing that incredible moment, the pair have never spoken. “Didn’t get a chance even after the race,” Mr Davies said.

Nevertheless, he still savours the memory. “It’s probably the greatest race ever, as far as I am concerned.”
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-09-29/olympic-starter-cathy-freemans-historic-win/105827956

iPhone 17 Pro Max Leaked in Video Just Days Before Launch, Big Design Change Expected

With Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone 17 series launch event just days away on September 9, excitement is rapidly building around the new lineup. A recently leaked hands-on video of the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers a tantalizing glimpse of the flagship’s redesigned look, sparking buzz among tech enthusiasts worldwide.

As anticipation grows for the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the new iPhone 17 Air, here’s what the leaked video reveals about the Pro Max’s design and expected upgrades.

### Leaked Video Highlights New Design

The leaked video, originally posted on X and first shared on Weibo, showcases the iPhone 17 Pro Max featuring a striking design overhaul. The most noticeable change is an expanded camera island that spans the top of the rear panel. This is a departure from the traditional square camera module seen on previous models.

Additionally, the lower half of the back appears to feature a distinct texture. However, it remains unclear whether the material is aluminum or glass. This design shift aligns with earlier rumors suggesting a more modern, futuristic aesthetic for the Pro models.

While the video has generated significant buzz, its authenticity is still unconfirmed. The footage could depict a real prototype, a dummy unit, or even a fabricated model. Speculation continues about whether the iPhone 17 Pro Max will indeed feature an aluminum back, as rumored, or retain a glass back to support wireless charging compatibility. Official confirmation of these design changes will come exclusively at Apple’s launch event on September 9 at 10:30 PM IST.

### Possible Hardware Enhancements

The leaked footage also suggests the iPhone 17 Pro Max may be slightly thicker than its predecessor, potentially measuring around 8.7mm. This added thickness could house several significant hardware upgrades. These include the rumored vapor chamber cooling system for enhanced thermal performance and a larger battery, rumored to reach up to 5,000mAh.

Such improvements could position the iPhone 17 Pro Max as a true powerhouse, delivering extended battery life and superior performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.

### What to Expect at Apple’s Launch Event?

Apple’s upcoming September 9 event is expected to unveil the full iPhone 17 lineup, including:

– The standard iPhone 17
– The ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air
– The Pro models

Alongside notable design changes, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is also rumored to feature a triple 48-megapixel camera system, a 24-megapixel front camera, and the new A19 Pro chip.

Beyond the iPhone, the event is likely to introduce the Apple Watch Series 11 and possibly other new products, making it a packed showcase of Apple’s latest innovations.

Stay tuned for official updates as Apple unveils its latest flagship devices next week!
https://www.freepressjournal.in/tech/iphone-17-pro-max-leaked-in-video-just-days-before-launch-big-design-chabge-expected

Survey Reveals 40% Of Gen Z Women In Mumbai Rely On Social Media For Fertility Advice

**Mumbai: New Survey Reveals Significant Gaps in Fertility Awareness Among Gen Z Women**

A recent reproductive health survey has highlighted notable gaps in fertility awareness and reproductive health management among Gen Z women in Mumbai. The survey, conducted by Motherhood Hospitals and Nova IVF Fertility across metros and tier-1 cities, polled over 200 women aged 23–30.

For context, “Gen Z women” refers to the demographic born roughly between the mid-1990s and early 2010s.

### Key Findings on Hormonal Health

In Mumbai, the survey found that:

– 35% of respondents believed they had no hormonal issues.
– 40% reported having hormonal issues but said they were managing them.
– 25% admitted to being diagnosed with conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or endometriosis but were not managing them effectively.

These findings shed light on how young women perceive fertility timelines, available options, and their sources of reproductive health information.

### Sources of Reproductive Health Information

The survey revealed a strong reliance on informal channels for reproductive health advice among Mumbai’s Gen Z women:

– 40% relied on social media.
– 35% sought advice from friends.
– 15% depended on TV or movies.
– Only 10% turned to family for information.

Experts have raised concerns that this dependence on informal sources, coupled with a lack of proactive health management, can have serious long-term consequences.

### Expert Insights on Awareness and Testing

Dr. Rita Modi, Senior IVF Consultant at Motherhood Fertility and IVF, Kharghar, emphasized the existing knowledge gaps:
“Over 50% of women have heard of the AMH test, yet many don’t understand its significance. This knowledge gap, combined with untreated lifestyle-related issues such as obesity, PCOS, and thyroid disorders, poses serious risks for future parenthood.”

Dr. Sneha Sathe, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Chembur, added:
“While 55% of women believe fertility declines only after 35, problems can arise much earlier. Tests like AMH, semen analysis, and ultrasounds provide valuable insights. Alarmingly, 40% of respondents didn’t know what AMH was, and only 20% believed fertility tests should be part of routine health check-ups.”

### Changing Attitudes Towards Parenthood

The survey also reflected evolving views on parenthood among Mumbai’s young women:

– 27% planned to delay having children due to career or financial readiness.
– 18% expressed no desire to have children at all, illustrating the growing popularity of the “DINK” (Double Income, No Kids) lifestyle.

### Call for Increased Awareness and Support

With India’s fertility rate steadily declining, experts are calling for:

– Stronger awareness campaigns on reproductive health.
– Workplace fertility benefits, such as egg freezing.
– Proactive reproductive health education to help young adults make informed decisions about their futures.

As reproductive health becomes an increasingly important topic, addressing these gaps and misconceptions is crucial for empowering Gen Z women in Mumbai and beyond.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/survey-reveals-40-of-gen-z-women-in-mumbai-rely-on-social-media-for-fertility-advice

Exit mobile version
Sitemap Index