On January 30, 2025, the Microsoft AI Tour made a significant stop in New York City at the North Javits Center, bringing together industry leaders, technology enthusiasts, and businesses eager to explore the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. This event served as a hub for innovation, showcasing the transformative impact of AI across various sectors. Attendees had the opportunity to network, experience hands-on demonstrations, and gain insights into AI’s rapid evolution.

Key Announcements and Highlights

One of the major highlights of the event was Microsoft’s announcement of the new Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business. These cutting-edge devices, including the latest Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, come equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra processors (Series 2), delivering enhanced AI-driven performance. Business customers can now choose between Intel and Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with 5G connectivity for Surface Laptop for Business set to arrive later in 2025. Microsoft also introduced the Surface USB4 Dock and enhancements to Microsoft Teams Rooms on Surface Hub 3 (it finally gets a web browser, for example), reinforcing its commitment to boosting productivity and seamless collaboration.

Additionally, Microsoft unveiled the public preview of Security Copilot in the Surface Management Portal, providing IT administrators with enhanced security tools. These developments underline Microsoft’s focus on integrating AI with business operations, making work more efficient and secure. The event also highlighted AI-powered security advancements, showcasing how businesses can leverage AI for proactive threat detection and response.

Red Hat’s Role and Industry Collaboration

Red Hat also played a prominent role at the New York AI Tour, emphasizing its open-source AI solutions in collaboration with Microsoft. At Booth #EP14, Red Hat showcased Azure Red Hat OpenShift and Red Hat Enterprise Linux AI, illustrating how businesses can accelerate AI deployments in hybrid cloud environments. Experts discussed AI model training on hybrid infrastructure, ensuring that organizations could scale AI applications efficiently while maintaining security and compliance.

The collaboration extends beyond in-person engagements, as Red Hat will host a virtual AI workshop on March 11, 2025, focusing on bringing AI-enabled applications to market faster with Azure Red Hat OpenShift. The session will cover AI model deployment, tuning foundation models, and integrating AI-driven analytics into enterprise applications.

Engaging Sessions and Thought Leadership

The event featured a series of engaging sessions and keynotes designed to educate and inspire attendees. Scott Guthrie, Executive Vice President of Microsoft’s Cloud + AI Group, delivered the Opening Keynote, covering the latest AI advancements and their potential across industries. He discussed how Generative AI is reshaping business operations, automating workflows, and improving decision-making processes.

Among the many insightful sessions, some key highlights included:

• “Accelerate Nonprofit Impact with AI” – Exploring how AI can empower nonprofits to drive greater impact through automation, analytics, and efficiency.
• “Leading in the Age of AI Transformation” – A discussion on how business leaders can navigate the rapidly changing AI landscape to maintain a competitive edge.
• “Copilot Implementation Essentials” – A deep dive into best practices for integrating Microsoft Copilot AI into workplace productivity tools.
• “Unveiling the AI Startup Journey – Founders Stories” – Featuring startup founders who shared real-world insights into how AI helped them scale their businesses.
• “Microsoft Azure Application Platform” – A deep dive into how Azure accelerates AI and Azure-powered application development, featuring industry experts – me, Danilo Diaz and Colby Ford.
• “Generative AI for Threat Intelligence and Fraud Detection” – Highlighting how AI is being used to detect and mitigate fraud, enhancing security in financial and retail sectors.
• “Scaling AI Solutions Across Hybrid Environments” – Exploring strategies for deploying AI models in hybrid and multi-cloud environments for maximum efficiency.

Each session provided a mix of technical expertise, real-world case studies, and hands-on demonstrations, making AI accessible to a diverse audience. Many attendees noted the depth of insights provided by AI industry experts, making this event invaluable for anyone looking to implement AI in their business.

Looking Ahead: AI’s Future in Business and Beyond

The Microsoft AI Tour in New York not only highlighted the latest AI-driven products and services but also reinforced the growing need for AI adoption in every industry. With key partnerships like Microsoft and Red Hat working together to simplify AI deployment, businesses are gaining access to powerful tools that make AI integration seamless and scalable. Sessions emphasized how AI-driven automation can reduce operational costs, improve productivity, and enhance decision-making.

Additionally, experts discussed ethical AI practices, ensuring that AI development remains transparent, unbiased, and responsible. The AI governance and compliance discussions were particularly relevant for industries such as finance and healthcare, where AI adoption must align with strict regulations.

As AI continues to reshape industries, events like the Microsoft AI Tour play a crucial role in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical, real-world applications. The New York stop has set a high bar, showcasing a future where AI enhances productivity, security, and overall business efficiency. For those who missed the in-person event, Red Hat’s virtual session on March 11, 2025, will provide another opportunity to explore AI development with Azure Red Hat OpenShift and gain insights into best practices for scaling AI solutions.

✨🎂 Ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of the year again. The Earth has completed another lap around the sun, and I am once again the star of this cosmic marathon. It’s my birthday! 🎉🎈 And what better way to celebrate than to reflect on one of Mark Twain’s finest gems of wisdom: “Age is a case of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

As the candles on my cake dangerously approach the fire hazard zone, I’ve decided to embrace Twain’s philosophy wholeheartedly. Because, let’s face it, what’s the alternative? Crying over a number? Nah, I’d rather save my tears for cutting onions. 🍒😂

The Cake Chronicles

First, let’s talk cake — that sweet, spongy symbol of celebration. My cake this year is like me: layered, full of surprises, and occasionally leaning slightly to one side. (The bakery said it’s “intentional rustic charm,” but I have my doubts. 😉🍰- ok, it was the hard work of my amazing wife hand crafting a beautiful and tasty cake for me, so, no leaning to the side) The candles 🕯️, of course, are many — so many that I briefly considered installing a sprinkler system before the family were lighting them.

But as Twain suggests, it’s all about perspective. Are those candles a reminder of age, or are they tiny flames of fabulousness? I’m going with the latter. (Feel free to borrow that mindset when your time comes, my friends.) 💡😎

The Birthday Philosophy

Birthdays, I’ve realized, are a lot like free trial subscriptions. At first, you’re thrilled about the perks of being a year older. Free wisdom upgrade? Yes, please! Discounts at restaurants? Sign me up! But then you hit a certain point where you’re like, “Wait a minute… I didn’t agree to this graying hair and random joint aches.” 🫔🙄

That’s where Twain’s advice kicks in. If you don’t mind these so-called “signs of aging,” they don’t matter. Gray hair? 👴 Call it wisdom highlights. Wrinkles? That’s just your face laughing at all the bad jokes you’ve heard. 😜🧡

The Real Gift

Every birthday is a gentle nudge from the universe saying, “Hey, you’re still here! Congrats on not being a statistic!” And honestly, that’s a pretty big deal. I mean, sure, gifts are nice (and cash is nicer 💰), but the real present is another year of making memories, dodging responsibilities, and Googling things I should already know just forgot due to my age. 😅🖥️

Final Thoughts

So, here’s to another year of mind over matter. Another year of laughing at life’s absurdities, celebrating the little victories, and pretending I’ve got it all figured out. To quote another great philosopher (me): “Aging is mandatory, but adulting is optional.” 😉

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some cake to eat, some wishes to make, and a fire extinguisher to find. 🚑🍰✨ Cheers to surviving and thriving for another year!

As entrepreneurs, one of the most critical lessons to internalize is that success lies in the perception of value, not price. The moment you make price the focal point of your conversations with clients or customers, you diminish your position as a creator, innovator, and problem-solver. Instead, you’re competing in a race to the bottom. Talking about value, on the other hand, is what distinguishes an entrepreneur from a mere vendor.

The Fatal Trap of Price Conversations

Discussing price puts you in a commodity mindset. When the conversation centers around cost, your product or service becomes just another line item to be compared against competitors. At that point, it’s no longer about what makes your offering unique; it’s about finding the cheapest option. The cheapest option is rarely the best choice—and deep down, clients know this. But if you’ve failed to articulate your value, you leave them with no other metric to evaluate you.

For entrepreneurs, this is a dangerous trap. Building a business is about creating and delivering value—not engaging in price wars. If you find yourself constantly discussing discounts or price cuts, you’re not just cutting your margins; you’re cutting your credibility as someone who offers something exceptional.

The Value-First Mindset

Value isn’t about the dollar amount; it’s about the transformation, the impact, and the results your product or service delivers. When you focus on value, you shift the conversation from “What does this cost?” to “What will this achieve?”

Consider these examples:

• Instead of saying: “Our software costs $500 a month,” say: “Our software saves you $5,000 a month by automating manual processes.”
• Instead of saying: “This consultation fee is $1,000,” say: “This consultation will help you avoid costly mistakes that could cost tens of thousands.”

By framing the conversation around outcomes, not inputs, you anchor the client’s mindset to what they’re gaining rather than what they’re spending.

Why Value Resonates

1. People Buy Solutions, Not Features Your clients don’t care about the bells and whistles—they care about how your offering solves their problem. Highlight the outcomes, whether it’s saving time, increasing revenue, or reducing risk.
2. Value Creates Emotional Buy-In Value connects with emotion. When clients see how your product aligns with their goals, they feel invested. People may rationalize decisions with logic, but they make them based on emotion. Talking about value lets you tap into that.
3. Value Justifies Investment Even a higher price can seem insignificant when the value is clear. If your solution delivers 10x the ROI, price becomes a footnote in the conversation.

Shifting the Narrative

To talk about value, you first need to know what your clients value. This requires listening and understanding their pain points. Ask the right questions:

• What challenges are they facing?
• What outcomes do they care about most?
• What’s at stake if they don’t solve this problem?

Once you understand their priorities, tailor your value proposition to those needs. Your offering should feel less like a product or service and more like the key to unlocking their desired results.

Entrepreneurship Is About Vision

When you talk about value, you position yourself as a visionary—someone who sees the bigger picture and helps clients achieve it. Entrepreneurs don’t just sell products; they sell possibilities. They’re not just in the business of making money; they’re in the business of making impact.

Talking about value shows that you’re invested in your client’s success. It demonstrates confidence in your offering and builds trust. In contrast, focusing on price erodes both confidence and trust, making it seem like even you don’t believe your product is worth its cost.

Final Thoughts

If you talk about price, you’re a vendor. If you talk about value, you’re an entrepreneur.

Your journey as an entrepreneur is about creating something meaningful, solving real problems, and delivering unmatched impact. Always lead with value. When you make this mindset shift, you’ll attract clients who understand, appreciate, and are willing to invest in what you bring to the table.

So, the next time a client asks about price, pause. Redirect the conversation. Talk about the value. Because price is a number, but value is a story—and stories sell.

Humans are inherently social beings, and our lives are deeply enriched by the connections we forge. Whether through neighborhoods, professional organizations, or shared-interest groups, belonging to a community can profoundly shape our personal and professional journeys. Let’s explore the benefits of belonging to a community and how these relationships create a dynamic exchange of giving and receiving.

The Personal Impact of Community

At a personal level, communities provide a sense of belonging. Knowing you are part of a group that shares your values, interests, or experiences can enhance your mental and emotional well-being. Communities offer:

1. 🌿 Support During Challenges: Whether it’s navigating a personal crisis or celebrating a milestone, communities provide a safety net of emotional and practical support.
2. 🌳 Opportunities for Growth: By exposing you to diverse perspectives and experiences, communities encourage learning and personal development.
3. 🌟 A Sense of Purpose: Contributing to a community reinforces your sense of identity and helps you find meaning in your interactions and contributions.

Professional Benefits of Community

In the workplace and broader professional environments, communities are invaluable for building networks and advancing careers. They enable:

1. 🤝 Collaboration and Innovation: Communities foster idea-sharing and teamwork, leading to creative problem-solving and new opportunities.
2. 🔧 Mentorship and Learning: Being part of professional groups allows you to learn from experienced peers and share your own expertise.
3. 📚 Career Opportunities: Networking within communities can open doors to new roles, collaborations, and partnerships.

What Communities Give You

Communities provide an ecosystem where members thrive by:

1. 🔍 Access to Resources: Whether it’s advice, tools, or connections, communities pool resources that benefit individuals.
2. ⏳ Accountability and Motivation: Being part of a group that shares your goals can keep you on track and inspired.
3. 🌎 Cultural and Social Enrichment: Communities often celebrate traditions, ideas, and knowledge, enriching your understanding of the world.

What You Can Give to Communities

While communities offer much to their members, the cycle of giving is what truly sustains them. Here’s how you can contribute:

1. 🔧 Your Skills and Expertise: Share your knowledge to help others grow.
2. ⏰ Time and Effort: Volunteer for initiatives, organize events, or mentor newcomers.
3. ❤️ Empathy and Support: A listening ear or a helping hand can strengthen bonds within the community.

The Synergy of Belonging

The magic of a community lies in its reciprocity. What you give often comes back multifold, not just in tangible rewards but in relationships, satisfaction, and a sense of fulfillment. Communities teach us that we are stronger together, capable of achieving more collectively than we could alone.

Conclusion

Belonging to a community is a cornerstone of a fulfilling life and career. It’s a mutual exchange of support, knowledge, and growth. So, whether you’re joining a local club, engaging with a professional network, or building connections through shared interests, remember that your participation strengthens both you and the community. Dive in, contribute wholeheartedly, and experience the transformative power of belonging.

In the evolving landscape of technology, Quantum Machine Learning (QML) stands out as a revolutionary field that merges the world of quantum computing and machine learning. This fusion promises to redefine how we process, analyze, and learn from data, offering unprecedented speed and efficiency in solving complex problems.

What is Quantum Machine Learning (QML)?

At its core, QML leverages the principles of quantum mechanics—such as superposition, entanglement, and interference—to enhance machine learning algorithms. While classical machine learning relies on traditional computational hardware, QML introduces quantum systems that can process vast amounts of information simultaneously, unlocking new possibilities for solving problems that are infeasible for classical methods.

Quantum Machine Learning operates at the intersection of two domains:

• Machine Learning (ML): Algorithms and models that enable systems to learn from data and make predictions or decisions without explicit programming.
• Quantum Computing: A computational paradigm that uses quantum bits (qubits) to perform calculations, capable of handling complex computations much faster than classical computers in certain cases.

Key Features of QML

1. Quantum Data:
   QML is particularly effective when working with quantum-specific data, such as information from quantum experiments or simulations of quantum systems. Quantum algorithms can analyze this data directly without the need for classical simplifications.
2. Quantum Speedup:
   Quantum algorithms, like Grover’s search or the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd (HHL) algorithm, demonstrate significant speedup over classical counterparts in specific tasks, making them ideal for optimization and search problems.
3. Hybrid Quantum-Classical Systems:
   Most QML systems today combine classical and quantum computing. The quantum processor handles tasks like optimization or feature selection, while the classical system manages the overall workflow.
4. Variational Quantum Algorithms:
   These algorithms, such as the Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) and Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA), rely on training quantum circuits with classical optimizers, forming the backbone of many QML approaches.

Applications of QML

The potential applications of Quantum Machine Learning span across diverse industries:

• Healthcare and Drug Discovery:
  QML accelerates drug discovery by simulating quantum properties of molecules, reducing the time required to identify effective treatments.
• Finance:
  Quantum algorithms can optimize portfolios, model financial markets, and detect fraud with greater precision.
• Artificial Intelligence:
  Quantum neural networks and classifiers enhance AI’s capabilities, improving tasks like natural language processing, image recognition, and robotics.
• Supply Chain and Logistics:
  Quantum optimization techniques streamline logistics operations, solving routing and scheduling problems efficiently.
• Materials Science:
  QML aids in designing new materials by simulating atomic interactions at a quantum level.

Challenges in Quantum Machine Learning

Despite its promise, QML faces several hurdles:

1. Noisy Quantum Hardware:
   Current quantum computers are prone to errors due to noise, limiting the reliability of QML algorithms.
2. Data Encoding:
   Translating classical data into quantum states (a process known as quantum data encoding) is resource-intensive and a bottleneck for large datasets.
3. Algorithm Development:
   Many QML algorithms are still in their infancy and require further refinement and testing.
4. Scalability:
   Scaling quantum systems to handle real-world problems remains a significant challenge due to hardware limitations.

Notable QML Algorithms

• Quantum Support Vector Machines (QSVM):
  A quantum adaptation of the classical support vector machine, offering improved performance on certain datasets.
• Quantum Principal Component Analysis (QPCA):
  A quantum approach to reduce the dimensionality of data, enabling faster data analysis.
• Quantum Neural Networks (QNN):
  Neural networks implemented on quantum hardware, combining the best of quantum computing and deep learning.

The Future of Quantum Machine Learning

As quantum technology continues to advance, Quantum Machine Learning is expected to complement classical methods rather than replace them. Hybrid quantum-classical systems are likely to dominate the early stages of QML’s adoption, enabling businesses and researchers to harness the power of quantum computing while leveraging existing classical infrastructure.

Looking ahead, QML has the potential to revolutionize industries by solving problems that were once thought unsolvable. From accelerating scientific research to transforming AI, the possibilities are boundless. However, realizing these possibilities will require continued innovation in quantum hardware, algorithm design, and integration with classical systems.

Conclusion

Quantum Machine Learning represents the cutting edge of computational science, offering a glimpse into a future where machines learn and compute at speeds unimaginable with classical systems. While still in its infancy, QML has already shown promise in tackling complex problems across industries. As researchers and engineers overcome current challenges, the impact of QML on technology and society will be profound, paving the way for a new era of intelligent computing.

Job interviews often focus on a checklist of skills, experience, and accomplishments. But beyond the technical fit, one of the most important aspects of long-term success and happiness at a job is aligning with the company’s culture. Company culture isn’t always obvious—it’s not neatly outlined in the employee handbook or conveyed in onboarding slides. It’s often shaped by unwritten rules—the norms, expectations, and subtleties that govern daily life at work.

Asking, “What’s one unwritten rule about working here that people tend to learn only after joining?” can give you an insider’s glimpse into these hidden dynamics before you even step into the role, and my favorite question to receive, to be honest. Here’s why this question is a game-changer:

1. It Reveals the True Culture Beyond the Surface

Many companies present an idealized version of their culture during interviews—buzzwords like “collaborative,” “fast-paced,” or “innovative” are frequently tossed around. While these descriptors sound great, they don’t paint the full picture. Unwritten rules, however, offer a peek into the lived experiences of employees. For example, does “fast-paced” mean skipping lunch or working weekends? Does “collaborative” mean everyone gets a say, or does it mask an aversion to decisive leadership?

By asking this question, you encourage interviewers to share anecdotes or specifics that reveal the unspoken norms shaping how things get done.

2. It Highlights Expectations That May Not Be Explicit

Unwritten rules often dictate how to navigate relationships, deadlines, and workplace priorities. For instance (neither applicable to my company):

• “Always CC the manager on emails to external clients.”
• “If you leave before 6 PM, people might assume you’re slacking.”
• “Big decisions are usually made in informal coffee chats, not meetings.”

Knowing these norms in advance helps you assess whether the expectations align with your working style and values. It can also help you prepare for potential challenges and decide whether this workplace is the right fit.

3. It Encourages Authenticity in the Conversation

This question often takes interviewers by surprise in the best possible way. It moves the conversation from rehearsed talking points to a genuine dialogue. Interviewers may pause, reflect, and share something personal or insightful—something they wish they had known when they joined the company. This authenticity can deepen your understanding of the role and leave a memorable impression on your interviewers.

4. It Shows Your Interest in Integration, Not Just the Job

By asking about unwritten rules, you signal that you’re thinking beyond the role itself—you’re considering how to integrate effectively into the organization. This demonstrates emotional intelligence and foresight. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about understanding team dynamics and who care about adapting to the broader workplace culture.

5. It Helps You Avoid Culture Shock

Imagine starting a job only to discover that the team communicates predominantly via Slack, even for critical discussions (you might prefer that – or not), or that employees avoid taking PTO because it’s quietly frowned upon. Learning about these dynamics before accepting an offer allows you to make an informed decision. If the unwritten rules clash with your preferences, you can either clarify expectations upfront or explore other opportunities.

6. It Positions You as a Thoughtful, Culture-Savvy Candidate

This question showcases your ability to think critically about workplace dynamics. It reflects your awareness that thriving at work requires more than just fulfilling job responsibilities—it requires understanding the human and cultural factors that drive a team.

How to Frame and Follow Up

When asking this question, keep your tone open and curious rather than skeptical or critical. For example:

• “Every workplace has its own quirks. What’s one unwritten rule about working here that you’ve noticed?”
• “What’s something new hires tend to learn about the culture after they join?”

Listen carefully to the response, and don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions. If the interviewer shares an example of an unwritten rule, probe further:

• “How do people usually navigate that?”
• “Do you think that’s something unique to this company, or common in the industry?”

Conclusion: The Power of Asking the Right Questions

The unwritten rules of a workplace can make or break your experience, and they’re not always obvious from job descriptions or formal interviews. By asking about them, you gain a deeper understanding of what it’s really like to work at a company—beyond the polished employer branding. This simple, yet powerful, question can help you uncover invaluable insights, set the tone for a transparent relationship, and ultimately make a decision that aligns with your career goals and personal values.

So, the next time you’re preparing for an interview, add this question to your list. It’s more than a conversation starter—it’s a window into the world you may soon be stepping into.

In the realm of computer vision and graphics, representing dynamic scenes over extended periods poses significant challenges, particularly concerning storage efficiency and rendering speed. The Temporal Gaussian Hierarchy (TGH) emerges as a groundbreaking 4D representation designed to address these issues, enabling the compact modeling of long volumetric videos.

Understanding Temporal Gaussian Hierarchy

TGH is built upon the observation that dynamic scenes exhibit varying degrees of temporal redundancy; certain regions change rapidly, while others remain relatively static. To leverage this, TGH constructs a multi-level hierarchy of 4D Gaussian primitives:

• Hierarchical Structure: Each level in the hierarchy corresponds to different temporal segments, with segments representing varying granularities of motion. This design allows the model to efficiently capture both fast and slow dynamics within the scene.
• Adaptive Sharing: By sharing Gaussian primitives across segments for unchanged or slowly changing content, TGH reduces the overall number of primitives required, leading to a more compact representation.

Key Advantages

1. Storage Efficiency: TGH significantly minimizes storage requirements. For instance, it can represent 18,000 frames (approximately 10 minutes of video) using just 2.2 GB of storage, achieving a 26-fold reduction compared to previous state-of-the-art methods.
2. Rendering Performance: The hierarchical nature allows for real-time rendering at 1080p resolution and 450 frames per second on standard hardware, such as an NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU. This performance is achieved by efficiently managing GPU memory and processing only the necessary subsets of Gaussian primitives at any given time.
3. Scalability: TGH maintains nearly constant GPU memory usage during training and rendering, regardless of video length. This scalability enables the handling of volumetric videos spanning several minutes without compromising performance or quality.

Practical Implications

The development of TGH represents a significant step forward in volumetric video technology. Its ability to efficiently process and render long-duration dynamic scenes opens new possibilities in fields such as virtual reality, gaming, and telepresence, where immersive and interactive experiences are paramount.

Zora Neale Hurston’s words, “Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose,” beautifully encapsulate the essence of what drives discovery and innovation. Her statement transcends the boundaries of academia and resonates with anyone seeking to understand the world more deeply, solve problems, or uncover hidden truths. This article explores how curiosity forms the foundation of impactful research and why purposeful inquiry is essential for progress.

The Nature of Curiosity

Curiosity is a powerful motivator, often considered the spark for exploration. It is the innate desire to ask “why,” “how,” or “what if.” However, while curiosity in its raw form may lead to serendipitous insights, research refines this curiosity into a disciplined pursuit of knowledge. It provides structure and methodology, ensuring that the questions we ask lead to answers that can be tested, shared, and built upon.

Imagine a child asking endless “why” questions. This pure curiosity is natural and boundless. Research, however, turns this curiosity into a methodical process:

1. Identify the question. What is the specific problem or unknown?
2. Establish a purpose. Why does this matter, and what impact could the answer have?
3. Design a method. How can this question be explored effectively?

This alignment of curiosity with purpose is what Hurston celebrated. It transforms random wondering into focused investigation.

Poking and Prying in Practice

The act of “poking and prying” implies a level of persistence and fearlessness. It suggests that research is not passive but rather active and sometimes even uncomfortable. True inquiry challenges the status quo, digs into inconvenient truths, and dismantles assumptions.

• In Science: Rosalind Franklin’s work on X-ray diffraction to uncover DNA’s structure exemplifies purposeful prying. Her disciplined approach to a seemingly unsolvable problem reshaped biology.
• In Technology: The development of the internet began with curious minds poking at the limitations of communication systems, leading to groundbreaking protocols that now connect the globe.
• In Social Science: Hurston herself, as a cultural anthropologist, immersed herself in communities, poking at cultural narratives to uncover deeper truths about African American life.

This active pursuit requires resilience. Researchers must embrace failure, confront bias, and continuously refine their methods.

Purpose: The Guiding Principle

Curiosity without purpose can feel aimless, while purpose without curiosity can feel rigid. Effective research requires both. Purpose provides the direction and stakes—why does this question matter, and who will benefit? Purpose also grounds the researcher, helping them navigate the inevitable obstacles with a clear goal in sight.

In fields like AI ethics, purposeful research ensures that curiosity about machine learning is aligned with societal values. Without purpose, curiosity can lead to unintended consequences, like the misuse of technology.

Similarly, purposeful inquiry in areas like climate science drives policies and innovations that address global challenges. Here, the stakes are high, and research must deliver actionable insights, not just theoretical musings.

Why Research Matters

Hurston’s words remind us that research is not just an academic exercise. It is an integral part of progress in every field. Whether you’re a scientist, entrepreneur, artist, or policymaker, research enables informed decisions, innovation, and growth.

• For Businesses: Market research helps companies align with consumer needs.
• For Individuals: Personal research empowers better choices, from health to career development.
• For Societies: Research builds collective knowledge, from eradicating diseases to understanding cultural diversity.

By formalizing curiosity, we not only advance ourselves but also contribute to the larger human story.

Embracing the Spirit of Poking and Prying

To live Hurston’s vision, we must nurture curiosity and apply it purposefully. This involves:

1. Asking better questions. Focus on the “why” behind every observation.
2. Committing to lifelong learning. Treat every day as an opportunity to formalize curiosity.
3. Encouraging diverse perspectives. Collaboration often reveals the blind spots in our understanding.

Research is not reserved for scientists or academics. It is a mindset anyone can adopt—one that values critical thinking, relentless inquiry, and purposeful action.

Zora Neale Hurston’s insight is as relevant today as it was when she first penned it. In a world overflowing with information, the ability to poke, pry, and formalize curiosity into meaningful research is more critical than ever. Whether we are developing new technologies, solving societal problems, or simply seeking personal growth, purposeful curiosity lights the way forward.

So, the next time you find yourself wondering, don’t stop there. Poke, pry, and pursue your curiosity with purpose. You may just uncover something extraordinary.

Society often paints a vivid picture of what it means to be wealthy: luxury cars, sprawling homes, designer clothes, and the latest gadgets. The allure of this image is powerful, but have you ever stopped to consider the hidden costs of chasing the appearance of wealth? It’s an expensive endeavor—not just financially, but in ways that affect your most precious resources: your time, health, relationships, and peace of mind.

The irony is that the wealthiest people—those who experience genuine fulfillment—often live much simpler lives. Their approach to wealth isn’t about flashy displays but about cultivating freedom, clarity, and balance. Let’s explore how society’s definition of wealth contrasts with what truly makes life rich.

The Price of “Looking Successful”

The pursuit of societal success can feel like an endless race. The pressure to maintain a polished, successful image demands sacrifices that are often invisible to others. Here are some of the hidden costs:

• Your Time: Hours spent working overtime to afford the latest car or the biggest house leave little room for leisure, creativity, or family.
• Your Health: Stress from keeping up with a high-cost lifestyle can lead to burnout, sleep deprivation, and long-term health issues.
• Your Relationships: The relentless focus on career and material gain can strain friendships and family connections.
• Your Peace of Mind: The fear of losing status or failing to meet expectations creates anxiety and a never-ending need to “prove” yourself.

In chasing the appearance of wealth, we risk losing the very things that make life meaningful.

The Real Assets of Wealth

True wealth isn’t about what’s in your bank account or parked in your driveway. It’s about the freedom and quality of life you create for yourself. Here’s how the truly wealthy define their assets:

1. Time Freedom: The ability to choose how you spend your days is priceless. It’s about having control over your schedule, whether to pursue a passion project or simply relax with loved ones.
2. Mental Clarity: A clear mind—free from stress, clutter, and constant comparison—is a rare and valuable asset.
3. Physical Health: Wealth without health is hollow. Prioritizing well-being allows you to enjoy life’s experiences fully.
4. Ability to Say “No”: True wealth includes the power to set boundaries, to walk away from what doesn’t align with your values, and to focus on what truly matters.

The Power of Simplicity

Take a closer look at some of the most successful people—they’re often unassuming in their lifestyle choices. They drive reliable, modest cars, live in homes that suit their needs, and keep their expenses low. This isn’t because they can’t afford more, but because they’ve recognized that a simpler life often brings greater freedom and joy.

Low overhead means fewer financial obligations, which translates to less stress. It’s not about deprivation; it’s about intentionality—making choices that align with what you value most.

Appearance vs. Substance

The obsession with appearing successful keeps many people from building actual wealth. They’re caught in a cycle of spending to impress, taking on debt to “keep up,” and constantly chasing an image. In contrast, those who prioritize substance over appearance focus on creating lasting value in their lives.

Building actual wealth is about more than money. It’s about:

• Investing in Experiences: Memories last longer than material possessions.
• Fostering Relationships: Strong connections with family and friends are invaluable.
• Growing Intellectually and Emotionally: Self-improvement and personal growth yield lifelong dividends.
• Living Authentically: Aligning your actions with your values brings unmatched satisfaction.

A Call to Reevaluate

The world may tell you that wealth is about “having it all,” but what if it’s really about having enough? Enough time to spend with loved ones, enough mental space to dream and create, enough health to enjoy life, and enough freedom to live on your terms.

Real wealth isn’t about impressing others. It’s about living a life that feels good to you—one that prioritizes freedom, peace, and fulfillment over the endless pursuit of status.

So, take a moment to ask yourself: Are you building real wealth, or are you chasing its shadow? The answer could transform not only your finances but your entire approach to life.

Are you curious about how to break into the tech industry? Eager to learn about the latest trends and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)? This event series is for you! FINOS’s ambassadors are thrilled to kick off a brand-new DEI in Tech Event Series on January 21, hosted by a leading tech firm opening its doors to the community. 🎯💡🤝

What’s this all about? 🎤📚🌈

This quarterly series is designed to inspire and empower anyone looking to find their pathway into technology. Each session will feature:

• Guest speakers from a variety of backgrounds and sectors
• Stories and practical tips on launching a career in tech
• Insightful DEI initiatives and programs that foster a diverse workforce
• An open, friendly environment for networking and Q&A

By shining a spotlight on the work of organizations championing DEI, we aim to expand opportunities for underrepresented groups and break down barriers to entry in the tech world. 🚀🌐🤗

Why Attend? 🏆👩‍💻🔍

• Learn how open-source is powering innovation in finance and beyond
• Hear from leading people in technology on their professional journeys
• Explore different career pathways in tech or finance or finance in tech—no matter your background
• Connect with industry professionals, allies, sponsors, and senior stakeholders
• Build your network with local tech communities, students, and other underrepresented groups
• Discover new resources for education and skill-building to launch or advance your career

Event Details 🗓️📍🕒

• Date: January 21 (first session of the series)
• Location: Microsoft
• Registration & Networking: 18:00
• Talks Start: 19:00
• Talks End: 20:00

It’s live and in-person—your chance to be part of an open community that welcomes everyone interested in tech and DEI. 🌟🤝🎈

Take Your Tech Journey to the Next Level 🛤️💪🌍

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to:

“Expand your network, gain confidence, deepen your knowledge, and open new career pathways!” 🎉💡🌟

Stay tuned for the registration link and location details. Bring your questions, your enthusiasm, and an open mind. We can’t wait to see you on January 21 for the inaugural session of our new DEI in Tech Event Series! 🎊✨🚀

Open to all | Free to attend | Registration required 🌐✅🙌