Ahmed Zaki commemorated by Google: Google’s Doodles paid tribute on Wednesday to what would have been the late actor Ahmed Zaki’s 71st birthday. Critically acclaimed and beloved by fans, he broke ground as a dark-skinned thespian performing leading roles, and delighted audiences with his impressive range. Viewers in the know will recognize the films referred to in the images that flank his likeness.

AUC Venture Lab and ITIDA launch startup training program: Tech entrepreneurs can now apply for Startup Launchpad, an eight-week training program courtesy of the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) and AUC’s Venture Lab, and delivered by the US’ Babson Collaborative for Entrepreneurship Education, according to a press release (pdf). The program runs starting January and will culminate in a pitch day to investors in March. Applications are open until 3 January.

SIGN OF THE TIMES? A photo of Mohamed Ramadan chilling with Israeli singer Omer Adam in Dubai has gone viral. The Egyptian star was reportedly forced onto the defensive after catching heat from social media users for posing with an Israeli artist.