The Power of Influence: Lessons That Shape Us + News Updates

Published date: 12 May 2025

By NOEMI

I hope you’ve had a wonderful Mother’s Day, celebrating with your family and loved ones. This special occasion reminds us to honour the remarkable women who have influenced our lives, our mothers, grandmothers, and mentors, whose wisdom, strength, and unconditional support shape us in ways we may not fully appreciate until much later. While Mother’s Day is traditionally about honouring mums, it also serves as a reminder of the broader role of mentorship, guidance, and encouragement that helps us grow, thrive, and find purpose in life.

Throughout our lives, we encounter individuals who leave a lasting impact, whether they are mothers, grandmothers, teachers, coaches, or role models. Their words and actions influence our values, help us navigate challenges, and inspire us to pursue our goals. Parents and grandparents, in particular, hold a special place, offering not only the wisdom of experience but also a warmth and kindness that can make even the most difficult moments feel lighter.

Influence is more than just words; it is found in resilience, patience, and quiet strength. Many of the world’s most successful individuals credit their achievements to those who believed in them, supported them, and showed them how to approach life with courage and grace. The lessons we inherit from parental figures and mentors alike extend beyond family, shaping how we treat others, how we lead, and how we inspire future generations.

As we reflect on the meaning of Mother’s Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate the people who have shaped our journeys. Who has helped guide you? Whose wisdom has strengthened you? Whether through our parents’ love, our grandparents’ stories, or our mentors’ advice, these influences remind us that the greatest gifts often come in the form of support and belief in our potential.

True influence is not about power or authority, but about leaving a lasting imprint on someone’s heart and mind. And perhaps the greatest way to honour those who have shaped us is by passing on their kindness, wisdom, and encouragement to others.

On 3 May 2025, Australians headed to the polls for the Federal Election, delivering a resounding victory for the Labor Party. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese secured a second consecutive term, with Labor winning 92 seats in the House of Representatives, the highest number in the party’s history.

The election saw major political shifts, including the defeat of Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who lost his seat of Dickson, Queensland. The Liberal-National Coalition faced significant setbacks, securing only 40 seats, marking one of their lowest results in decades.

Several key factors influenced the election outcome, including economic concerns, cost-of-living pressures, and global trade policies. Analysts suggest that Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Australian goods may have played a role in Labor’s late surge in the polls, as voters reacted to uncertainty in international trade relations.

With a strengthened mandate, Prime Minister Albanese has pledged to focus on economic stability, climate action, and progressive social policies in his second term. As Australia moves forward, the election results signal a significant political shift, shaping the nation’s direction for the next three years.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has announced a major shift in the company’s global manufacturing strategy, confirming that most iPhone models sold in the United States during the April–June quarter will be shipped from India. This change reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on China, particularly amid concerns over potential new tariffs due to escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing.

In addition to iPhones, Apple has disclosed that nearly all iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and AirPods intended for the US market will now be manufactured in Vietnam. While the company has taken significant steps to mitigate the impact of existing tariffs on Chinese imports, it expects to incur a substantial financial hit, reportedly around $900 million, in the June quarter. Apple acknowledges that continuing to depend heavily on China for its US supply chain presents long-term risks.

This strategic transition aligns with Apple’s broader initiative to diversify its production and strengthen supply chain resilience. Analysts suggest that the move could affect pricing, product availability, and future trade relations within the tech industry, potentially encouraging other companies to adopt similar strategies.

Bill Gates has announced plans to donate 99% of his remaining fortune to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation over the next 20 years, reinforcing his lifelong commitment to philanthropy. His decision aims to eradicate diseases, reduce global poverty, and improve healthcare worldwide, continuing the foundation’s legacy of transformative change.

The foundation, which has already contributed over $100 billion to global causes, will receive an additional $200 billion before officially closing its doors on 31 December 2045. Gates shared that his decision was inspired by Andrew Carnegie’s philosophy on wealth redistribution, stating that he wants to accelerate his efforts to give back to society much faster than originally planned.

His announcement comes at a time when global aid budgets are shrinking, raising concerns about the future of humanitarian efforts. Despite these challenges, Gates remains optimistic, believing that his contributions will help advance scientific research, support education, and lift millions out of poverty for generations to come.

Tesla is facing significant financial challenges, with profits dropping 71% in the first quarter of 2025, as vehicle deliveries declined to 336,681, marking a 13% decrease compared to the previous year. Sales in both Europe and China have also suffered, with Tesla’s wholesale sales in China falling 21.8% year-over-year in Q1 2025.

Despite setbacks, Elon Musk remains optimistic, shifting focus to robotaxis and AI-driven innovations as Tesla’s next major leap. He believes that fully autonomous vehicles and the introduction of humanoid robots in Tesla factories will help the company regain momentum and reposition itself as a leader in AI-driven mobility.

Recent speculation regarding Musk’s potential successor has been strongly denied by both Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm and Musk himself, who dismissed the reports as “absolutely false”. Meanwhile, Musk has reduced his time in his White House role with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), scaling back his involvement to one or two days per week, though he has not fully stepped away.

As Tesla navigates these challenges, the coming months will be critical in determining its future trajectory in the rapidly evolving EV market. Analysts believe the company’s ability to recover from declining sales, maintain investor confidence, and successfully implement AI-driven technologies will play a key role in shaping its long-term success. Musk’s leadership remains a focal point, as he continues to balance his corporate responsibilities while addressing public and political scrutiny.

The global stock market has experienced significant fluctuations in recent weeks, with investors navigating economic uncertainty and shifting trade policies. Following the initial downturn triggered by new U.S. tariffs, stocks have rebounded, with the Dow Jones reaching a record high of 41,368.45 points on 9 May 2025.

Despite this recovery, analysts warn that volatility may persist, as concerns over inflation, trade negotiations, and corporate earnings continue to shape investor sentiment. The S&P 500 rose by 0.58%, while the Nasdaq gained 1.07%, driven by strong performance in the technology sector.

Regional Market Performance

• Australia: The ASX 200 closed 0.3% higher at 8,421 points, following optimism about a potential U.S.-UK trade deal.

•  United States: The Dow Jones is at 41,230.32 points, down 0.33%, the S&P 500 is at 5,659.91 points, down 0.07%, and the Nasdaq remains stable at 17,928.92 points.

• United Kingdom: The FTSE 100 dipped slightly by 0.32%, while the UK’s trade deal with the U.S. has boosted investor confidence.

•  China: The Shanghai Composite rose 0.8%, while the Shenzhen Composite gained 1.7%, following productive U.S.-China trade talks.

• Canada: The TSX index closed at 25,309 points, marking a 5.8% gain in May, as investors react to post-election economic policies.

• Singapore: The Straits Times Index (STI) rose 0.7%, reaching 3,876.16 points, driven by strong banking sector performance.

As investors assess the evolving economic landscape, experts suggest that market resilience will depend on trade negotiations, inflation control, and corporate performance in the coming months.

After more than six decades at the helm, Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most renowned investors, has announced his intention to retire as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway by the end of 2025 at the age of 94. Widely regarded for his sharp investment strategies and long-term vision, Buffett has transformed Berkshire Hathaway into a global financial powerhouse, shaping the company’s exceptional reputation in the investment world.

His designated successor, Greg Abel, is set to assume the CEO role, ensuring the continuation of Berkshire Hathaway’s legacy of sound financial management and investment excellence. Analysts note that while Buffett’s eventual retirement will mark the end of an era, his influence on business and investment strategies is expected to remain strong for years to come, especially with his continued financial stake in the company.

Buffett has assured shareholders that his guiding principles and financial philosophies will continue under Abel’s leadership, providing stability and continuity. His departure also raises questions about Berkshire Hathaway’s future direction, as the company navigates a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

On 21 April 2025, Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he made history as the first Latin American Pope, bringing a fresh perspective to his leadership that deeply resonated across cultures.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was renowned for his unwavering commitment to social justice, environmental causes, and interfaith dialogue. He dedicated himself to supporting the poor and marginalised, advocating for a Church rooted in compassion and inclusion. His outspoken stance on humanitarian issues and his push for progressive reforms solidified his reputation as one of the most influential and beloved modern Popes.

His funeral was held on 26 April 2025, drawing world leaders, religious figures, and millions of faithful who gathered to pay their respects. As the Catholic Church bids farewell, Pope Francis’ legacy continues to shape global discussions on faith, unity, and responsibility, leaving behind a lasting spiritual and humanitarian impact.

The Catholic Church has elected Pope Leo XIV, marking the beginning of a new era of leadership and faith. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69 years old and originally from Chicago, USA, was elected as the 267th successor of St Peter on Thursday, 8 May 2025.

His journey is deeply inspiring. After becoming a priest in 1982, he devoted himself to ministry in the United States before embarking on a mission in Peru at the age of 30. There, he spent decades serving as a missionary and bishop, immersing himself in local communities and cultures, strengthening his pastoral leadership. His strong connection to both regions is reflected in his dual citizenship as an American and Peruvian, symbolising his commitment to serving people across borders.

Following his election, the Vatican has recognised Pope Leo XIV as the second Pope from The Americas, following Pope Francis, the first Latin American Pope from Argentina. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the global Catholic community, as he steps into his role with a strong legacy of faith, service, and leadership.

On 9 May 2025, Prince William and Kate Middleton unveiled ‘Catherine’s Rose’, a stunning coral-pink flower named in honour of the Princess of Wales. Bred by Harkness Roses and introduced by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the rose celebrates Kate’s dedication to the healing power of nature and her advocacy for mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.

Proceeds from the sale of Catherine’s Rose will support The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, a cause deeply personal to Kate, as she received treatment at The Royal Marsden Hospital. The funds will help establish a specialist prehabilitation and rehabilitation programme, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care and support.

The rose will be showcased at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show from 20–24 May 2025, where visitors can admire its rich fragrance, with hints of Turkish Delight and mango.

This heartfelt tribute reflects Kate’s enduring influence and the Royal Family’s commitment to charitable causes, marking a meaningful connection between nature, healing, and philanthropy.

Looking for the perfect film to watch? Whether you’re heading to the cinema for a blockbuster experience or settling in for a streaming marathon, these are the top-rated movies generating buzz this month.

• Thunderbolts*: A team of antiheroes is forced into a mission they never signed up for.

• Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning: Ethan Hunt faces his most impossible challenge yet.

• Captain America: Brave New World: Sam Wilson uncovers a conspiracy that shakes the nation.

• The Amateur: A cryptographer seeks revenge using the very skills meant to protect others.

• Ocean with David Attenborough: A breathtaking journey through Earth’s most mysterious depths.

• Nonnas: A restaurant run by grandmothers serves up love, laughter, and the best Italian dishes.

Discovering Sydney: Read our Sydney Travel Guide >>

Gift Ideas for Everyone: Gift Ideas for Special Occasions >>

Best Personal Development Books: Check out our curated list >>

Thank you for reading and for being part of my community.

I’m NOEMI, the Founder of Online Harbour, NOEMI, and CG Strategies. I’m passionate about sharing knowledge that enriches both professional and personal lives.