Business
Local, international speakers take to stage at TEDxBaaAtoll
The Baa Atoll recently hosted the Maldives’ first-ever edition of TEDx on March 19, 2022. Joining the international community of TED-inspired events, TEDxBaaAtoll saw around 100 invited guests including international guests, island council representatives and local Maldivians attend the talks live at Soneva Fushi, a world-renowned resort on Kunfunadhoo, one of the largest islands in the atoll and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In addition to the guests at the resort, participants from around the globe were able to join the live stream of the event.
The independently organised event, licensed by TED, featured local and international voices and TED talk videos under the theme of ‘Slow Life’. In a world where everything happens at full speed, Slow Life focuses on the ways we can find a deeper purpose beyond the superficial by reconnecting with the earth to living in harmony with the natural environment; as well as working hand-in-hand with communities to make the world a better place; and nurturing our physical and mental wellbeing to be the very best we can be.
As the sun began to set over the Indian Ocean, the event kicked off with a sustainability market and glass exhibition, which highlighted some of the sustainability initiatives currently in place on the island. A warm welcome and an opening announcement by the event moderator was then followed by an introductory video from TED curator Chris Anderson.
Under the light of the stars above them and with the sound of waves crashing in the background, each speaker took to the stage to share their own unique stories and ideas on what Slow Life means to them.
First up to the platform and sporting a full respirator mask and pesticide sprayer, entomologist Akib Jahir laid out his ambitious plan to tackle the world’s most dangerous animal – the mosquito – without the need for toxic chemical solutions. Determined to reduce the number of mosquitoes with nothing but the use of a revolutionary mosquito trap, Akib and his team have virtually eliminated the risk of mosquito-borne disease on the island.
Maldivian professional diver and surfer, as well as an advocate for marine conservation, Shaziya ‘Saazu’ Saeed followed to discuss how being more mindful and in tune with the ocean, or what she terms as “oceaned”, can hold the key to a healthier, happier life.
Bruce Bromley, a highly experienced Chief Financial Officer and trustee for a not-for-profit foundation focused on mitigating the impacts of climate change, delved into the world of finance to reveal why every CFO should also be a company’s Chief Sustainability Officer.
The youngest of the speakers, thirteen-year-old Maldivian school girl Yala Shameem talked about why it is so important for schools to adapt their teaching methods to prepare children to become future leaders. Sharing her own experiences as a student, Yala eloquently went on to explain how by removing the pressure of test papers and grading systems, students can build their self-confidence as equals amongst their peers.
Founder and managing director of a Swiss NGO working on coral restoration projects in the Maldives, Ahmad ‘Aki’ Allahgholi looked at how with just a little help from technology, we can restore and preserve our coral reefs.
Technology management specialist and local Maldivian, Aishath Adnan discussed ways to encourage more women to pursue a career in the tech industry.
Maldivian cultural anthropologist, Malsa Maaz who is currently studying how the human body holds and transmits cultural knowledge, highlighted ways to truly learn and appreciate culture.
Local entrepreneur and mentor, Hussain ‘Sendi’ Rasheed, a pioneer of the region’s diving industry and the Maldives’ first PADI-certified course director, shared why seaweed is much more than a weed and how it could be an essential ingredient in our fight against climate change.
And Carissa Nimah, a Guardian of the Brand (Chief Commercial Officer), who has worked with some of the world’s leading luxury brands, looked at why a job title might matter more than we think and what would happen if everyone had a job title that motivated and inspired them to become the most creative and purpose-driven version of themselves?
Adding a local touch, attendees were also treated to live performances of the boduberu, a traditional form of Maldivian drumming, by Dharavandhoo-based group Chanbeylee as well as traditional Maldivian songs by performers Huya & Shan.
The event was supported by Soneva, Manta Air, Dhiraagu, Blueworld Dharavandhoo, Violet Inn, The Council of Dharavandhoo and Analice Costa.
Bestbuy Maldives (BBM) has presented a brand-new Honda Airblade motorbike to the winner of a lucky draw held to mark the opening of its newest wholesale outlet in Hulhumalé Phase 2.
The outlet, located at Lot 20286 on Nirolhu Magu, opened on 16 February 2026 as part of BBM’s expansion of its wholesale operations.
To celebrate the opening and thank customers for their continued support, BBM introduced a special lucky draw exclusively for customers who made purchases from the new outlet on its opening day.
Customers who purchased products during the opening were eligible to enter the draw, with a Honda Airblade motorbike offered as the grand prize.
The lucky draw was conducted on 13 August 2026, with Ibrahim Shifaz of Vagthun Vaguthah outlet selected as the winner.
Shifaz was recently presented with the ceremonial key to the Honda Airblade by AVS Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer of Bestbuy Maldives.
The promotion formed part of BBM’s activities surrounding the opening of its Hulhumalé Phase 2 outlet, which provides customers with access to the company’s range of wholesale products from the growing residential and commercial area.
Bestbuy Maldives is a supplier and distributor serving businesses across the Maldives, including customers in the hospitality, food service and retail sectors.
Male’ Aerated Water Company (MAWC), the authorised bottler of The Coca-Cola Company in the Maldives, on Thursday hosted the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Match Ball Handover Ceremony, presenting Football Legends of Maldives with official FIFA World Cup 2026™ match balls signed personally by Dr Mohamed Muizzu, President of Maldives.
Held in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, the ceremony recognised former national footballers whose achievements, service and influence have helped shape football in the Maldives and inspired generations of players and supporters.
The Coca-Cola Company has been an official partner of FIFA since 1974, making it one of the longest-standing partnerships in the global sport. For MAWC, the handover brought that global partnership to life locally by connecting the FIFA World Cup with people who have contributed to Maldivian football history.
As the sole authorised Coca-Cola bottler in the Maldives for over 35 years, MAWC has supported local sport through partnerships, campaigns and community initiatives. The ceremony continued that commitment by recognising the legacy of players who represented the Maldives and contributed to the growth of football in the country.
“Maldives’ football legends have given generations of supporters moments of pride and have played an important role in shaping the country’s sporting history. At MAWC, we believe recognising their contribution is as important as supporting the next generation. Through our partnership with Coca-Cola and FIFA, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, we are honoured to celebrate their legacy. These match balls are a token of our appreciation for what they have given to Maldivian football,” said Milind Derasari, Chief Operating Officer, MAWC.
Adding to the excitement of the football season, MAWC ran a nationwide FIFA World Cup 2026™ consumer promotion from 21 March to 24 May 2026. Eight winners received an all-expenses-paid experience for two to attend a FIFA World Cup 2026™ match. Hundreds more won Coca-Cola branded merchandise and other prizes during the campaign, bringing the excitement of the world’s largest football tournament to consumers across the Maldives.
MAWC remains committed to building partnerships that support the development of sports across the Maldives, working with the Government of Maldives and other partners.
Coca-Cola Maldives is turning up the excitement with the launch of its 2026 football campaign, bringing fans across the country a season packed with prizes, shared moments and exciting ways to celebrate the game together.
As the build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026 begins, Coca-Cola Maldives is inviting consumers to join in the fun with a campaign built around everything that makes football special: the anticipation, the matchday thrill, the watch parties, the celebrations and the memories made along the way.
From March to May, consumers in the Maldives will have the chance to take part in the Coca-Cola Maldives FIFA World Cup 2026 promotion, with weekly prizes, branded merchandise and a grand prize experience linked to one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
As part of the campaign, Coca-Cola Maldives is rolling out the UTC Promo from March 21 to May 24, giving consumers even more ways to be part of the football excitement. Special promotional packs will feature a unique code either under the cap or under the tab, depending on the product format. For 500ml, 1.25L and 2L PET bottles, codes will appear under the special Golden Caps on Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta Orange and Fanta Strawberry. For 330ml cans, codes will appear under the tab on Coca-Cola. Consumers can enter by sending the code via SMS to 2626 for the chance to win a range of prizes throughout the campaign period.
The promotion will run across 330ml cans as well as 500ml, 1.25L and 2L PET bottles, making it easy for consumers to join in whether they are picking up a drink for themselves, sharing with friends, or stocking up for a matchday gathering. With multiple participating brands and pack formats included in the promotion, Coca-Cola Maldives is creating more opportunities for consumers across the country to take part in the campaign and enjoy the football season together.
At the top tier, eight winners will receive an all-expenses-paid experience for two to watch a FIFA World Cup match live, creating a once-in-a-lifetime football moment. Under Tier 2, 60 winners will receive Coca-Cola branded mini-coolers, while 120 winners will take home Coca-Cola branded football-shaped personal coolers. Under Tier 3, 180 winners will receive Coke and FIFA branded footballs, adding even more play and energy to the season.
Adding a live moment to the excitement, the first set of winners will be announced on ICE TV on April 6 at 9pm, with winner announcements continuing every week throughout the promotion. This weekly reveal is set to bring an added sense of anticipation and shared excitement as the campaign unfolds across the Maldives.
The campaign is designed to bring fans closer to the game and make every football moment even more enjoyable. Whether it is watching a match with family at home, catching the action with friends at a café, or picking up a favourite Coca-Cola pack from a neighbourhood store, Coca-Cola Maldives aims to be part of the moments that make football season unforgettable.
“Football has a way of bringing people together like nothing else, and that is what inspired this campaign,” said Mario Perera, Country Head for Sri Lanka and the Maldives. “In the Maldives, the game is enjoyed in such a lively and social way, and Coca-Cola Maldives wanted to create a campaign that feels fun, relevant and easy for people to be part of. It is about celebrating the season, enjoying the experience with others, and giving fans something extra to look forward to.”
Adding to the excitement, Coca-Cola Maldives will also launch collectible country packs in the Maldives from May to July, giving fans the chance to celebrate the global game in a new way. Inspired by some of football’s most recognised nations, these limited-edition packs will bring a colourful and collectible twist to the season.
Across the Maldives, Coca-Cola Maldives will work with retail partners to bring the campaign to life through in-store visibility, promotional touchpoints and selected local activations that capture the spirit of football and community.
“The Maldives is a unique market, and Coca-Cola Maldives wanted this campaign to connect with the way people here enjoy football, together, with energy, and with a real sense of occasion. Coca-Cola Maldives is excited to bring that spirit to life in the months ahead,” added Mario Perera.
This marks the start of Coca-Cola Maldives’ 2026 journey in the market. With more fan moments, more excitement and more ways to join in still to come, Coca-Cola Maldives is looking forward to celebrating the football season with consumers across the country.
-
Cooking1 week agoVARU by Atmosphere celebrates Maldivian cuisine with new Kaagé cookbook
-
Meditation1 week agoFour Seasons Kuda Huraa introduces ŪRJĀ, a new naturopathy wellness island
-
Honeymoon1 week ago10 ways Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is redefining the modern Maldives honeymoon
-
Cooking6 days agoVakkaru Maldives welcomes back Chef Jesper Koch for autumn culinary residency
-
News6 days agoChavana Spa introduces personalised wellness journeys in Maldives
-
News6 days agoMandara Spa launches immersive wellness journeys across Maldives resorts
-
News6 days agoFootball stars, freestyle champions headline Kandima Maldives’ Summer Kamp 2026
-
Entertainment4 days agoIfuru Island Maldives to stage four nights of music and culture with Ripple & Friends