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In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital ecosystems, few voices bridge global innovation and local identity as seamlessly as Hamza Chishti.

As Director of Cloud & AI at Microsoft, his work sits at the forefront of technological transformation, influencing how systems are built, scaled, and experienced across borders.

But beyond titles and territories, Hamza represents a shift. A new narrative of Pakistani leadership that is not confined by geography but defined by impact. Moving between New York and Lahore, he embodies a rare duality; global in execution, deeply rooted in perspective.

At a time when the future is being engineered in real time, Hamza Chishtie is not just part of the conversation, he is helping shape it.

You’re working at the intersection of Cloud and AI at Microsoft. What does your role actually look like on a day to day level beyond the title?

I spend a significant portion of my time working directly with CIOs, CTOs, and senior business and technology leaders to shape enterprise cloud and AI strategy, translating business priorities into scalable, secure technical roadmaps. This includes partnering closely with customer leadership, sales, and account teams to align AI initiatives with measurable outcomes, guiding executive decision-making, and identifying where cloud and AI can create durable competitive advantage. I also collaborate with internal Microsoft leadership on strategic accounts and cross-solution initiatives, ensuring technical strategy, delivery execution, and commercial alignment move forward as a single, coordinated motion.

From Lahore to NYC, how has navigating two very different ecosystems shaped the way you think and build?

Lahore didn’t just shape where I come from—it shaped the leader I became. Growing up there taught me resilience, empathy, and how to lead with people first, especially in environments where resources are limited but ambition isn’t. I miss the food, the language, the warmth, and the culture every day—but I also carry it with me. That lived experience, combined with operating in a hyper-competitive, global ecosystem like New York, has made my leadership style inherently multicultural and entrepreneurial. I lead by blending scrappiness with structure, instinct with strategy, and human context with technical rigor. In NYC, I’m building impact at global scale using everything I learned in Lahore—turning constraints into creativity, diversity into strength, and culture into a real competitive advantage.

What is one misconception people in Pakistan have about working in Big Tech that you would like to correct?

One common misconception in Pakistan about working in Big Tech is that once you get in, the work becomes easy or purely glamorous. The reality is the opposite. Big Tech demands extreme ownership, continuous reinvention, and the ability to operate amid ambiguity at massive scale.

You’re expected to think like an entrepreneur inside a large system—solve undefined problems, influence without authority, and constantly upskill as technology and business models evolve. The opportunity is real, but it rewards discipline, resilience, and long-term thinking far more than pedigree or a single breakthrough moment.

AI is evolving rapidly. What are the most practical real world changes you see it bringing to everyday life in the next few years?

Over the next few years, the biggest real-world impact of AI won’t feel futuristic—it will feel quietly practical. AI will become an always-on assistant that reduces everyday friction: drafting emails and messages in your voice, summarizing meetings you didn’t fully attend, handling scheduling, paperwork, and routine decisions automatically. In healthcare, finance, and customer service, AI will act as a first line of support—triaging issues, personalizing recommendations, and accelerating outcomes rather than replacing humans. At work, the biggest shift will be cognitive leverage: fewer blank pages, faster problem framing, and instant access to context across tools and data. In daily life, AI will help people make better decisions—budgeting, learning, navigating bureaucracy—by turning complexity into clarity. The real change isn’t that AI will do everything for us; it’s that it will give more people expert-level assistance by default.

You are not just working in tech, you are building as well. What drives you to create alongside your corporate role?

I’m an entrepreneur at heart, even inside a large company. Building alongside my corporate role is how I stay connected to purpose, not just progress. Creating keeps me close to real people and real problems—and that’s where meaning lives for me. A lot of the content I share on Instagram isn’t about tech at all; it’s about helping others navigate careers, confidence, and growth, because I genuinely believe life is about lifting others as you climb. Building gives me a way to give back, to share lessons openly, and to create impact beyond titles or organizations. That instinct—to help, to teach, to uplift—is what fuels my creativity and shapes the kind of leader I try to be every day.

What problem are you most interested in solving right now and why does it matter?

The problem I’m most focused on solving right now is access—access to education, opportunity, and belief, especially for talent coming out of Pakistan. I care deeply about making world-class learning and exposure more accessible, but also about something bigger: building a global brand identity for Pakistan that people are proud of when they hear the name. There is extraordinary talent there, but too often it’s constrained by lack of visibility, confidence, or pathways. I want to help change that by creating platforms, sharing knowledge, and investing time in building future leaders—people who don’t just succeed individually, but who lift the perception of an entire country with them. This matters because when education scales and identity shifts, generations change—and Pakistan deserves to be known not just for where it’s been, but for the leaders it’s about to produce.

For young Pakistanis aspiring to break into global tech roles, what are the non obvious skills that actually make the difference?

The skills that make the biggest difference in global tech roles are rarely the ones listed on job descriptions. First is clarity of thinking—the ability to break messy problems into simple, structured ideas and communicate them confidently. Second is context switching: working across cultures, time zones, and perspectives without losing empathy or effectiveness. Third is ownership—not waiting for instructions but proactively identifying problems and driving solutions end-to-end.

Fourth is learning velocity: technology changes fast, but what really matters is how quickly you can unlearn, relearn, and adapt. And finally, presence and storytelling—being able to explain your ideas, your impact, and your value clearly to people who don’t share your background. Talent gets you noticed, but these skills are what help you scale, lead, and stay relevant globally.

How do you personally deal with pressure and decision making at a leadership level?

At a leadership level, pressure is constant, so I’ve learned not to eliminate it but to manage my relationship with it. I slow decisions down mentally, even when timelines are fast—separating signal from noise and focusing on what truly matters versus what’s just loud. I rely heavily on first principles, lived experience, and diverse perspectives, especially when decisions affect people at scale. Under pressure, I optimize for clarity, not perfection: make the best decision with the information available, own it fully, and course-correct quickly if needed. What keeps me steady is remembering that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about taking responsibility, staying human, and making decisions you can stand behind even after the outcome is known.

What does success look like to you at this stage of your life and has that definition changed over time?

At this stage of my life, success looks very different than it used to. Earlier, it was about titles, milestones, and proving myself. Today, success is much more human. It’s about helping others move forward, uplifting people when they need it most, and creating impact that lasts beyond me. It’s found in small wins—seeing someone gain confidence, land an opportunity, or believe in themselves because of something I shared or built. Success is making others happy, contributing to their dreams, and knowing that my work—inside and outside my career—is leaving people better than I found them. That shift has been intentional: from chasing outcomes for myself to building meaning through service, growth, and shared progress.

If you had to build something for Pakistan specifically powered by AI, what would it be?

I am already building something, stay tuned for that

Outside of work, what does a perfect day look like for you when you are completely off the grid?

A perfect off-the-grid day for me is slow, intentional, and deeply human. It starts with good food— something comforting—followed by movement, whether that’s a relaxed game of cricket or table tennis just for fun. I love wandering through new cities without a plan, stopping into a quiet bookstore, picking up a book that finds me, not the other way around. Central Park is a favorite reset—finding a bench or a patch of grass, reading for hours, watching the city move while my mind slows down. Somewhere in the day, giving time at a soup kitchen or helping out reminds me what truly matters. That mix of food, play, service, curiosity, and stillness is what fully recharges me.

How do you maintain balance between a high performance career and personal well being?

I don’t see balance as a perfect equation—I see it as staying rooted. A high-performance career brings intensity, but my well-being comes from anchoring myself in what keeps me whole. Taking time out for Namaz creates space to pause, reflect, and realign my intentions. Regular conversations with family keep me emotionally grounded and remind me of who I am beyond work. Playing music instruments and listening to good Pakistani music helps me slow my mind, reconnect with culture, and reset creatively. Along with movement, good food, and service, these moments give me clarity and calm. When I protect these anchors, I show up sharper, more present, and more human—and that’s what ultimately sustains high performance over the long run.

Rapid Fire

One app you cannot live without >
Whatsapp
NYC or Lahore for life >
Lahore
A book or podcast that changed your thinking >
Peace is Every Step
One habit that keeps you productive >
time boxing my problems
Advice in one line for someone who wants your career path >
Start with intention

In a fashion landscape often driven by immediacy and excess, Fatima Masud chooses a different language; one of stillness, intention, and enduring beauty. Through AMÈNE, she has built more than a label; she has shaped a philosophy where elegance is quiet, craftsmanship is sacred, and design unfolds with patience rather than urgency.

Her collections—Lal-e-Nur, Rohaney, Olira, and Nastaran—read like chapters of an evolving narrative, each rooted in emotion, cultural memory, and refined restraint. With silhouettes that honour tradition while embracing modern proportion, AMÈNE speaks to a woman who values presence over performance and depth over display.

This cover feature explores Fatima Masud’s journey, her design ethos, and the calm confidence that defines AMÈNE – an ode to timeless fashion in an age that rarely pauses.

This conversation is a gentle unfolding of her journey of womanhood, craftsmanship, and the philosophy that elegance does not need to announce itself to be felt.

Fatima, before AMÈNE became a name synonymous with timeless elegance, who were you as a woman, and what personal experiences shaped your creative vision?

Before AMÈNE, I was a woman deeply observant of beauty, emotion, and detail. I’ve always been drawn to nuance — the quiet moments, the unspoken strength in grace, and the stories carried within fabric and form. Personal experiences taught me patience, resilience, and the value of refinement over noise. These experiences shaped my creative vision into one that celebrates composure, depth, and enduring elegance rather than fleeting trends.

What inspired the creation of AMÈNE? Was there a defining moment when you knew this brand had to exist?

AMÈNE was born from a desire to create something timeless — clothing that felt intentional, soulful, and enduring. There wasn’t a single dramatic moment, but rather a quiet realisation that the kind of elegance I envisioned wasn’t being represented the way I felt it should be. I knew AMÈNE had to exist as a space where craftsmanship, restraint, and poetry could coexist.

The name AMÈNE carries quiet strength and refinement. What does it represent to you, and how does it reflect the soul of the brand?

AMÈNE represents serenity, confidence, and inner strength. It is not loud or assertive — it’s assured. The name reflects the soul of the brand perfectly: composed, thoughtful, and elegant without effort. AMÈNE is about presence rather than performance.

AMÈNE stands for timeless, poised, and sublime. How do you translate these values into silhouettes, fabrics, and craftsmanship?

These values guide every design decision. Timelessness comes through classic silhouettes reinterpreted with modern proportion. Poise is reflected in balance — never excess, never compromise. Sublimity lies in craftsmanship: handwork that whispers rather than shouts, luxurious fabrics that age beautifully, and details that reveal themselves gradually.

Your work beautifully bridges tradition with modernity. How important is craftsmanship in your design process, and how do you ensure it remains authentic in a fast-fashion era?

Craftsmanship is the foundation of AMÈNE. In an era of speed, choosing slowness is a conscious decision. We work closely with skilled artisans, honouring traditional techniques while adapting them thoughtfully for the modern woman. Authenticity comes from respect — for craft, for time, and for the hands that create each piece.

Who is the AMÈNE woman? How would you describe her lifestyle, mindset, and sense of style?

The AMÈNE woman is confident, discerning, and self-aware. She values quality over quantity and chooses pieces that reflect her inner world. Her lifestyle is intentional, her mindset grounded, and her style refined yet effortless. She dresses for herself, not for validation.

From Lal-e-Nur to Rohaney to Olira to Nastaran, your collections feel narrative-driven. Where do you draw inspiration from when conceptualising a new collection?

My inspiration comes from emotion, cultural heritage and lived experiences. Our collection begins with a feeling — a memory, a state of being, a visual metaphor. From there, the narrative unfolds organically through colour, texture, and form. I see each collection as a chapter rather than a standalone moment.

In today’s world, luxury means different things to different people. What does luxury mean to you personally and through the lens of AMÈNE?

To me, luxury is restraint, longevity, and intention. It is the ability to slow down and choose well. Through AMÈNE, luxury is expressed as quiet confidence — garments that don’t demand attention but command presence through craftsmanship and detail.

AMÈNE delivers worldwide. How do you maintain cultural sensitivity and design relevance for a global audience while staying rooted in your aesthetic?

AMÈNE remains rooted in its identity while allowing subtle adaptability. Cultural sensitivity comes from listening, understanding different sensibilities while staying true to the brand’s core language. Our designs speak universally through elegance, craftsmanship, and balance.

Every entrepreneurial journey comes with challenges. What were some pivotal struggles you faced while building AMÈNE, and how did they shape you as a leader?

One of the greatest challenges was learning to trust my instinct while navigating uncertainty. Building AMÈNE taught me resilience, discipline, and clarity. It shaped me into a leader who values patience, consistency, and thoughtful decision-making over haste.

How conscious is AMÈNE about sustainability, ethical production, and responsible fashion, and how do you see this evolving for the brand?

Sustainability at AMÈNE begins with longevity. We focus on responsible sourcing, ethical craftsmanship, and creating pieces meant to be cherished over time. As the brand grows, this commitment will deepen — with continued emphasis on mindful production and reduced excess.

How would you describe your own personal style? Does it mirror AMÈNE, or is it a departure from the brand’s aesthetic?

My personal style closely mirrors AMÈNE — understated, refined, and intentional. I gravitate toward clean lines, neutral palettes, and pieces that feel timeless. The brand is an extension of my own aesthetic sensibility.

What has been the most validating moment for you so far as a designer and founder?

The most validating moments are when women tell me they feel confident, composed, and themselves in AMÈNE. Knowing the brand resonates emotionally, not just visually is deeply fulfilling.

Where do you envision AMÈNE in the next five years—creatively and globally?

Creatively, I see AMÈNE continuing to evolve while staying rooted in its core philosophy. Globally, I envision a thoughtful expansion — reaching women who appreciate craftsmanship and timeless design, without compromising the brand’s integrity.

If AMÈNE were to be remembered for one thing decades from now, what would you want that legacy to be?

I would want AMÈNE to be remembered for redefining elegance — for creating garments that embodied quiet strength, refined craftsmanship, and enduring beauty.

What would you like to say to women who dream of building something of their own but hesitate to begin?

Begin before you feel ready. Growth comes through doing, not waiting for perfection. Trust your vision, stay patient with the process, and honour your own pace. What you build with sincerity will always find its place.

Rooted in the philosophy that modesty is not a compromise but a statement, Jannataan emerges as a sanctuary of luxury modestwear. Seamlessly blending couture craftsmanship with serene sophistication, the brand redefines elegance for the modern woman —– one who carries faith and fashion in graceful harmony.

In this exclusive conversation with Good Times Magazine, Ayesha Imran the creative force behind Jannataan shares the story, vision, and essence of a label that’s quietly revolutionizing modest fashion across the globe.

“Two heavens. One expression of timeless elegance.” — Jannataan’s tagline itself feels deeply poetic. Tell us about the story behind the name and the vision that brought this brand to life.

The name Jannataan draws from Jannat, the Arabic word for paradise. It represents serenity, beauty, and purpose. “Two heavens” reflects the dual essence of every woman — her inner world of faith and her outer world of expression. Jannataan was created to harmonize the two, offering modestwear that feels empowering, sophisticated, and emotionally meaningful.

Jannataan redefines modestwear by merging tradition with couture sensibility. What inspired you to blur the lines between modesty and high fashion?

Jannataan was founded on the belief that modesty and luxury are not opposites — they are complementary. The brand was inspired by women who value grace as much as individuality. By merging traditional silhouettes with couture craftsmanship, Jannataan transforms modestwear into a refined expression of contemporary elegance.

The brand’s silhouettes are fluid yet structured, embodying both grace and power. How do you approach the creative process of balancing softness with strength in your designs?

Every Jannataan design is guided by duality — fluid fabrics symbolizing femininity and structured tailoring representing strength. The creative process focuses on achieving harmony between movement and form. This balance ensures that each piece captures the essence of the modern woman: poised, powerful, and graceful. These designs are something that are easier for the woman of the future.

The craftsmanship and fabric choices in your collections speak volumes about attention to detail. Could you share the thought process behind your material selection and design philosophy?

Jannataan’s design philosophy is rooted in timeless refinement. Each fabric is chosen for its texture, flow, and ability to reflect light with subtlety — from soft silks and crepes to fine linens and blends. Every stitch and embellishment is purposeful, ensuring that craftsmanship becomes part of the brand’s visual language. The focus is always on creating pieces that feel as beautiful to wear as they are to behold.

Jannataan positions modestwear not as a limitation but as a statement. How do you think this perspective is reshaping the narrative around modest fashion globally?

By reimagining modestwear as a form of quiet luxury, Jannataan contributes to a global shift in perspective. Modesty is no longer seen as a constraint; it’s viewed as choice, identity, and empowerment. This evolving narrative celebrates women who express strength through subtlety, proving that elegance need not be loud to be powerful.

From flowing abayas to tailored jackets and signature scarves, each piece tells its own story. What emotions or experiences do you want women to feel when they wear Jannataan?

Every Jannataan creation is designed to evoke confidence, calm, and connection. The brand’s intention is for women to feel both grounded in their values and elevated in their presence. When wearing Jannataan, one should feel the quiet assurance that comes from authenticity and self-awareness.

Luxury modestwear is gaining prominence worldwide. How do you see Jannataan contributing to this global movement, and where do you envision your brand in the next few years?

Jannataan aspires to be a leading voice in global luxury modestwear. The brand’s vision is to bridge cultural heritage with contemporary sophistication, resonating with women across borders. In the coming years, Jannataan aims to expand internationally through curated showcases, global collaborations, and timeless collections that honor its ethos of grace and refinement. We are focusing on expanding Jannataan primarily in Middle Eastern countries, Europe, and Asia.

Fashion today is as much about identity as it is about style. How does Jannataan celebrate individuality within the framework of modest design?

At Jannataan, individuality is celebrated through subtle expression. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to adapt to a woman’s personal aesthetic — versatile, refined, and distinct. The brand’s philosophy emphasizes that true individuality lies in how one carries grace, not in how much one reveals.

The brand embodies serenity, sophistication, and self-assurance. How do these values translate into your creative direction and visual storytelling?

Jannataan’s visual identity reflects a world of calm elegance — muted tones, clean lines, and purposeful imagery. Each campaign focuses on storytelling that highlights strength through stillness. The brand’s creative direction embraces minimalism not as absence, but as intention — where every detail carries meaning.

As the face behind Jannataan, what does modesty personally mean to the brand, beyond fashion?

For Jannataan, modesty is a philosophy of being. It signifies inner peace, dignity, and balance. Beyond garments, it’s reflected in how the brand approaches design, communication, and experience — with thoughtfulness and integrity. Modesty, to Jannataan, is the truest form of sophistication.

You’ve positioned Jannataan as a new era of luxury modestwear. What challenges did you face while introducing this concept, and how did you turn them into opportunities?

Introducing luxury modestwear required redefining perceptions — showing that modest fashion can be aspirational, contemporary, and artistically relevant. The challenge became an opportunity to innovate and elevate modestwear through design, storytelling, and craftsmanship. Today, those same challenges have shaped Jannataan’s identity as a brand that leads with purpose and poise.

Finally, what can we expect next from Jannataan — any upcoming campaigns, international showcases, or collaborations our readers should be excited about?

Jannataan’s upcoming collection is the Wedding Edit. The brand is also preparing for an international showcase and a cross-disciplinary collaboration that blends art and couture. We have recently exhibited in Doha, Qatar. Each new chapter reaffirms Jannataan’s commitment to redefining modesty as timeless luxury.

Over the years, he has garnered widespread attention and praise for his stunning couture pieces, which exude an enchanting old-world charm.

We hope you enjoy reading about his inspiring journey, from establishing himself as one of Pakistan’s finest fashion designers to opening his grand, reimagined studio in Lahore, Rehar Nagar.

What inspired you to become a fashion designer, and how did you develop your signature style known for its old-world charm and intricate craftsmanship?

My journey into fashion design was inspired by a deep love for art and storytelling. Growing up, I was always fascinated by traditional craftsmanship and the beauty of the past. There’s something magical about the way history, culture, and art blend together, and I wanted to preserve that in a contemporary form.

As I began designing, my signature style naturally evolved. I wanted to merge old-world charm with modern sensibilities. The intricacy you see in my work is a reflection of the detailed craftsmanship I admire from our heritage. Each piece I create tells a story, blending cultural elements with a modern edge, while still staying true to the elegance and grace of traditional artistry. I draw from everything around me—architecture, nature, history and then translate that into fabric, embellishments, and silhouettes.

Your new studio, Rehar Nagar, in Lahore is a reimagined space. Could you tell us about the vision behind it and how it reflects your design philosophy?

Rehar Nagar is a reimagined store, not just a typical retail space. The vision behind it was to create an immersive environment where customers can experience the brand’s essence firsthand. Every detail of the store reflects our commitment to blending old world charm with contemporary design, making it a space where people can engage with the stories behind each collection. It’s about offering more than just clothes, it’s about bringing the full Hussain Rehar experience to life.

How do you balance tradition with modernity in your bridal couture pieces? What role does heritage play in your designs?

In my bridal couture, I strike a balance by honouring traditional craftsmanship and cultural motifs while infusing modern cuts and innovative techniques. This blend allows the pieces to feel timeless yet relevant, giving brides a sense of both tradition and individuality. However, heritage is the heart of my designs. It provides a rich narrative that I reinterpret in a way that feels contemporary. By weaving cultural symbolism into each piece, I ensure that the designs carry a sense of history while still appealing to the modern bride who seeks something unique and elegant.

Your collections often leave people in awe with their craftsmanship. Can you take us through the process of creating one of your couture pieces, from conceptualization to final product?

Creating a couture piece is an intricate and deeply personal process. It begins with conceptualisation, where I gather inspiration from various sources be it art, architecture or nature. I sketch my ideas, focusing on the story I want to tell through the design. Once the concept is solidified, I select fabrics and materials that align with the vision. This is where craftsmanship truly comes into play; skilled artisans handcraft each element, from intricate embroideries to custom embellishments, ensuring that every detail reflects the quality and artistry we stand for. After the initial construction, we go through several fittings to perfect the silhouette and draping. This stage is crucial to ensure the piece not only looks stunning but also feels comfortable for the wearer. Finally, once all adjustments are made, the piece is finished with meticulous attention to detail, ready to embody the blend of tradition and modern elegance that defines my collections.

What is the significance of old-world charm in your work, and how do you incorporate it into designs that resonate with today’s fashion-forward brides?*

Old-world charm is vital in my work as it reflects rich history and craftsmanship. I incorporate it into my designs through traditional techniques and intricate embroidery, blending them with contemporary cuts and fabrics. This approach allows today’s fashion forward brides to celebrate their heritage while expressing their individuality, creating timeless pieces that feel both classic and modern.

Rehar Nagar is not just a studio but an experience. How do you ensure that each client who walks in feels immersed in your world of couture?

At Rehar Nagar, we create an immersive experience by focusing on the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of the space. The interior is designed to reflect the elegance and artistry, featuring visually stunning displays that showcase our collections. We encourage clients to explore at their own pace, allowing them to fully engage with the craftsmanship and details of each piece. By curating an inspiring environment, we aim to make every visit feel special and memorable, inviting clients into the unique world of Hussain Rehar couture.

Fashion is ever-evolving, but your designs maintain a timeless appeal. How do you stay innovative while staying true to the core of your artistic vision?

To stay innovative while maintaining a timeless appeal, I continuously draw inspiration from various sources art, culture, and nature while staying grounded in my core artistic vision. I experiment with new techniques, materials, and silhouettes, ensuring that my designs evolve with contemporary trends.

However, I remain committed to the craftsmanship and storytelling elements that define my work. This balance allows me to create pieces that feel fresh and modern while preserving the essence of what makes them timeless. By blending innovation with tradition, I aim to resonate with clients looking for both elegance and contemporary flair.

Your work is admired for its bold use of colour and texture. Where do you draw inspiration for these elements in your collections?

I draw inspiration for color and texture from a variety of sources, including nature, art, and cultural traditions. I often look at the vibrant hues found in landscapes, textiles, and architecture, allowing those elements to influence my palette.

Textures play a significant role as well; I explore different fabrics and techniques to create depth and interest in my designs. By blending rich colors with diverse textures, I aim to evoke emotions and create visual impact, ensuring that each collection tells a unique story.

What advice would you give to aspiring designers looking to make their mark in the world of couture, especially in the bridal segment?

To aspiring designers in the bridal segment, my advice would be to stay true to your unique vision while being open to learning and evolving. Invest time in mastering your craft, focusing on quality and craftsmanship, as these are essential in couture. Don’t shy away from experimenting with styles, fabrics, and techniques to find your signature aesthetic. And always listen to your clients and stay attuned to their needs, as this connection will help you create memorable experiences and designs that truly stand out.

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