Lifestyle

Sara Zaimi Vies for Miss NJ Crown

Published

6 months ago

June 19, 2024

The Miss NJ competition seeks a leader, a role model who inspires with both brains and heart. Enter Sara Zaimi, a trailblazing pharmacist with a Doctorate (PharmD) whose passion for women’s health and community empowerment burns brightly.

A brush with mortality at a young age – chest pain and a concerning blood test – ignited a fire in Sara. Witnessing the unwavering spirit of women battling cancer in the oncology ward solidified her desire to make a difference. It was her mother’s unwavering support, the way she held her hand through fear and doubt, that propelled Sara to answer that call. Overcoming self-doubt and depression, she embarked on a remarkable academic journey, graduating with her PharmD at the prestigious Rutgers University at the early age of 23, placing her among the top 10% of her class.

As a first-generation Algerian American, she’s a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. Her academic achievements, including valedictorian honors and consistent Dean’s List placements, stand as a testament. This translates further into her successful business, where she champions women’s health awareness. Her impact extends far beyond the pharmacy walls. Sara dedicates her time to NJ Sisterhood, empowering young women and inner-city communities. Her fluency in Spanish further highlights her commitment to inclusivity and understanding.

Driven by personal experience and empathy, Sara aims to leverage the Miss NJ platform to tackle critical women’s health issues. From early detection of breast cancer to advocating for increased resources, she seeks to empower women to take charge of their health. Her work with NJ Sisterhood complements this mission, focusing on projects that empower women and address their specific needs. Her advocacy includes promoting 3D areola tattooing for breast cancer survivors, a powerful example of how science and art can converge in the healing process.

Sara’s strength lies in the synergy of her diverse experiences. Her business acumen and her work with NJ Sisterhood position her to champion women’s health and community well-being on a grander stage. She envisions using the Miss NJ platform to create tangible change, increasing resources for those affected by breast cancer and other women’s health issues.

The demands of a successful business, active volunteer work with NJ Sisterhood, and the rigorous training for the Miss NJ competition require exceptional time management skills. Sara thrives under pressure, meticulously juggling her commitments without compromising on quality.

Her multifaceted personality, unwavering commitment to women’s health, and passion for community empowerment make her a strong contender for Miss NJ. She embodies the true spirit of the competition: a woman who is not just beautiful, but a force for good, inspiring young women to reach for their dreams and embrace their unique talents.

Follow Sara’s journey and learn more about her mission on Instagram: @pharminked_laser and @njsisterhood. Let’s cheer her on as she vies for the Miss NJ crown!

Lifestyle

The Evolution of eCommerce: How Online Shopping Has Changed in the Last Decade

Published

6 hours ago

December 3, 2024

Michelle Langton

Over the past decade, eCommerce has transformed from a convenient alternative to brick-and-mortar shopping into a dominant force shaping global consumer behaviour. This evolution has been driven by advancements in technology, shifting customer expectations, and innovative logistics strategies that ensure purchases reach doorsteps with unprecedented speed and efficiency. Let’s explore how online shopping has evolved and what it means for businesses and consumers alike.

The Rise of Mobile Commerce

One of the most significant changes in eCommerce is the shift towards mobile shopping. Smartphones have become the preferred device for browsing, comparing, and purchasing products. According to recent studies, more than 70% of online transactions now occur on mobile devices. User-friendly apps, seamless payment gateways, and mobile-first website designs have played pivotal roles in driving this trend.

For businesses, this shift has meant a greater focus on responsive design and mobile-optimised platforms to enhance user experience. It has also encouraged the rise of social commerce, where platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become integral to shopping journeys, blending entertainment with eCommerce.

Personalisation and AI Integration

A decade ago, personalisation in online shopping was rudimentary – limited to broad product recommendations. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have revolutionised how retailers engage with customers. eCommerce platforms can now analyse browsing habits, purchase history, and even real-time preferences to deliver highly tailored shopping experiences.

From personalised email campaigns to dynamic website content that adapts to user behaviour, AI has allowed businesses to forge stronger connections with their audiences. This evolution not only boosts sales but also fosters customer loyalty in a competitive market.

The Amazon Effect and Expedited Delivery

The “Amazon Effect” has been another game-changer, setting new standards for eCommerce logistics. The expectation of fast, often same-day delivery has become a benchmark for online retailers worldwide. To meet these demands, businesses have invested heavily in supply chain optimisation and partnerships with reliable logistics providers.

The integration of advanced eCommerce freight solutions has been crucial in ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery. These solutions streamline the movement of goods from warehouses to customers, enabling retailers to stay competitive while managing rising logistical complexities.

Sustainability in Online Shopping

As awareness of environmental issues grows, sustainability has become a major focus for eCommerce. In the last decade, consumers have increasingly demanded eco-friendly practices, prompting businesses to adopt greener approaches.

From sustainable packaging to carbon-neutral shipping options, online retailers are now incorporating environmental responsibility into their operations. This shift not only aligns with consumer values but also provides businesses with a competitive edge in a market that prioritises ethical consumption.

The Power of Data and Analytics

Data has always been integral to eCommerce, but its role has expanded significantly in the past ten years. Advanced analytics now allow businesses to understand consumer trends, optimise inventory management, and enhance marketing strategies. Predictive analytics, for instance, can anticipate demand fluctuations, helping retailers avoid stockouts or overstocking.

Moreover, data-driven insights have made omnichannel retailing more cohesive, ensuring customers have a seamless experience whether they’re shopping online, in-store, or through a combination of both.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

While the evolution of eCommerce has brought remarkable progress, it hasn’t been without challenges. Rising customer expectations, cybersecurity threats, and the complexities of global trade are just a few hurdles businesses face. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation.

By adopting cutting-edge technologies, fostering strategic partnerships, and focusing on customer-centric approaches, businesses can continue thriving in the ever-changing eCommerce landscape.

As you can see, the past decade has been transformative for eCommerce – reshaping how we shop, sell, and interact with brands

From the convenience of mobile shopping to the precision of AI-driven personalisation, the industry has continually adapted to meet the needs of modern consumers. As technology advances and consumer expectations evolve, one thing is certain – eCommerce will remain at the forefront of global retail innovation for years to come.