Latest news with #mediaRelations
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
APO Group Wins Gold and Bronze at the 2025 Davos Communications Awards for Canon Central and North Africa Campaigns
APO Group ( the leading Pan-African communications and media relations consultancy, has earned two major accolades at the prestigious 2025 Davos Communications Awards held on 11 April 2025, in Davos, Switzerland: a Gold Award for Canon's 'World Unseen' campaign at GITEX Africa and a Bronze Award for the '10 Years of Miraisha' celebration. The Davos Communications Awards, presented by the World Communications Forum Association (WCFA), recognise exceptional communications firms, experts, and internal teams that have produced excellence and achieved quantifiable impact worldwide. Canon's World Unseen Experience, which won Gold, was a PR event that broke new ground. It launched at GITEX Africa, enabling individuals who have lost their sight or are visually impaired to experience the power of photography, unlike ever before. By providing an opportunity to engage with photography through various sensory inputs, Canon challenged societal perceptions and broke new ground in the field of inclusive technology. The Miraisha campaign, which earned Bronze, marked 10 years of Canon's youth programme in Africa. It did this through stories, getting people involved and grabbing attention from big media outlets. These awards add to a growing list of international accolades for APO Group in the past year, including: Africa's Leading PR Agency 2025 – Brands Review Magazine Most Innovative Woman of the Year 2025 Bronze Stevie® Awards category – Rania El-Rafie, Vice President, PR&Strategic Communications at APO Group Five Awards at the 2023 SABRE Awards Africa – including wins for excellence in reputation management, brand building, and social media strategy Founder and Chairman of APO Group Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard added: 'From Canon to many other remarkable partners, these accolades reflect the strength of our collaborations and our commitment to promoting positive narratives across the continent. APO Group continues to lead the way in shaping Africa's communications landscape.' Somesh Adukia, Managing Director of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA), commented: "At Canon, we are driven by a purpose that goes beyond imaging—it's about creating stories that inspire, empower, and drive positive change. 'World Unseen' is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, bringing to light perspectives that are often overlooked, while '10 Years of Miraisha Programme' represents a decade of empowering African talent, nurturing creativity, and providing opportunities across the continent'. 'Our partnership with APO Group has been instrumental in bringing these stories to life. Their deep understanding of the African media landscape, combined with their strategic storytelling approach, has helped amplify our vision and connect with diverse audiences across the region. These award-winning campaigns are not just milestones; they are proof of the impact we can achieve together. 'We are proud of what we have accomplished with APO Group and look forward to continuing this journey, creating initiatives that leave a lasting impact and drive meaningful change for Canon and the communities we serve'. As APO Group continues to elevate African stories to the global stage, these awards strengthen its standing as the top pan-African PR and communications firm, trusted by multinational corporations, organisations, governments, NGOs and the media. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group. Media contact: marie@ About APO Group: Founded in 2007, APO Group ( is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, the Davos Communications Awards 2025 awarded us the Gold Award for Best PR Campaign and the Bronze Award for Special Event. APO Group's esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.
Zawya
27-05-2025
- General
- Zawya
APO Group Reveals its Role as Architect Behind Catholic Church in Africa's Groundbreaking Communications Volunteer Programme
APO Group ( a leading award-winning pan-African public relations and communications consultancy, has strategically unveiled a volunteer communications programme comprising experienced communication professionals to support the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) ( the governing body of the Roman Catholic Church in Africa. This groundbreaking initiative, developed and launched by APO Group aims to enhance the Roman Catholic Churches ability to communicate effectively and engage with communities across the African continent. The Catholic Church operates 82,235 Catholic Schools in Africa, educating 30,629,476 pupils. Its extensive network of care includes 13,880 facilities such as hospitals, clinics, dispensaries, leprosy centres, homes for the elderly and chronically ill, centres for disabled people, orphanages, kindergartens, and marriage counselling centres. APO Group and SECAM, the governing body of the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, first entered into their partnership in May 2022 with the shared goal of enhancing media and public relations support for the Catholic Church in Africa. Not only did APO Group conceive the volunteer programme but it also assembled a team of elite, well-experienced African communications professionals. The professionalization of SECAM's communications capabilities extends beyond standard capacity-building. This initiative includes the development and delivery of a strategic communications framework that aligns with SECAM's core mission and long-term objectives. The effort also builds upon APO Group's previous collaborations with the Church, which include the creation and roll-out of a comprehensive communications curriculum and tailored training programme for Catholic institutions across Africa. The volunteer communications team will focus on key priorities, such as: Crafting and executing a long-term communications strategy for SECAM to strengthen the voice of the Roman Catholic Church and increase awareness of its work across Africa. Enhancing media relations to amplify the Church's presence. Designing effective visibility tools to connect with diverse stakeholders across Africa and beyond. Several talented professionals have already joined the SECAM Communications Volunteer Programme, bringing a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to advancing the Church's mission across Africa. Among them are Catherine Njoroge ( Head of Marketing and Strategy, who plays a role in shaping long-term plans to strengthen the Church's visibility; Nyarai Chapingidza ( Digital MarComm Manager, who drives efforts to boost SECAM's online presence; Lucy Kimani ( Director of Communications and Advocacy, who steers impactful storytelling and advocacy campaigns; and Eunice Chege ( Communications Advisor, who contributes her extensive experience in developing and implementing communication strategies. Additionally, professionals joining in the business support functions include Majina Mwasezi ( Project Coordinator; Pauline Lugalia ( Executive Assistant to the Head of the Catholic Church in Africa; and Anne Nasumba ( Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Rose Thuo ( who joined the programme as Chief of Marketing and Communications, said: 'We are witnessing a remarkable convergence of talent and purpose. Each volunteer brings something unique to the table, and together, we are building a communications foundation that will serve the African Catholic Church for years to come.' There is an urgent and immediate need for candidates with HR and recruitment, as well as Graphic Design and website management experience to join the Roman Catholic Church in Africa's volunteer programme. Individuals with this expertise are encouraged to apply and support the Church's mission by strengthening its operational capacity across the continent. Interested volunteers are encouraged to apply through the official link: 'This pro bono initiative reflects APO Group's commitment to supporting impactful organisations across Africa. Many high-impact organisations (including NGOs) in Africa face financial barriers to establishing strong communication systems. This should never impede their ability to be seen and heard,' said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard ( Founder and Chairman of APO Group. 'Through initiatives like this volunteer programme, we strive to bridge that gap—delivering professional support to elevate their messaging and outreach at the highest possible level.' 'Africa is now the future of the Roman Catholic Church,' said Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the President of SECAM. 'As our communities continue to grow, it becomes ever more important to amplify our voice and share our mission with the world. 'We are grateful to APO Group for their support and expertise in making this vision a reality. Their role in designing and implementing this initiative has been invaluable. APO Group's dedication to empowering impactful organisations aligns perfectly with our mission, and their contribution will undoubtedly leave a legacy in the Church's journey toward greater visibility and engagement worldwide.' As part of its ongoing partnership with the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, APO Group has delivered a comprehensive range of support initiatives, including complimentary pan-African press release distribution and media monitoring, extensive online and in-person media training for over 22 communication professionals across the continent, and the provision of Zoom licences to Episcopal and Regional Episcopal Conferences. APO Group Founder and Chairman has personally led training sessions and held strategic meetings with Church dignitaries in several African countries to assess further areas of support. Furthermore, a volunteer programme launched in 2024 is now active, enhancing operational assistance for the Church throughout Africa. According to recent data from the Vatican, there are 1.39 billion Catholics worldwide, representing around 18% of the world's population. Africa's 236 million Catholics already make up about 20% of the global Catholic population, but they are also the fastest-growing region in the world. By 2050, the World Christian Database estimates that African Catholics will make up 32% of the global Catholic population. According to the United Nations' 2022 State of the World's Volunteerism Report, there are an estimated 862.4 million volunteers globally. Engaging in volunteerism offers individuals a unique opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience, enhance their professional profiles, and develop valuable skills through impactful service. This is a joint press release from APO Group and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group. Media contact: marie@ About APO Group: Founded in 2007, APO Group ( is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a Provoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple Provoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, the Davos Communications Awards 2025 awarded us the Gold Award for Best PR Campaign and the Bronze Award for Special Event. APO Group's esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. About the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM): The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) ( was born out of the decision of the African Bishops during the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) to establish a forum in which they could speak with one voice on matters pertaining to the Church in Africa. The establishment of SECAM is therefore the result of the Bishops' resolve to build a continental structure in order to bring forth the African vision to the whole Church. Seeing the importance of such an Association for Africa, the Congregation for the Evangelisation of the Peoples invited the Presidents of the Regional Episcopal Conferences for consultations in 1968. Consequently, the first visit of a Pope to Africa, in modern times, was seen as a very opportune occasion for the launch of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar. This was therefore done during the visit of His Holiness Pope Paul VI in Kampala (Uganda) in July, 1969. Thereafter, it was agreed to establish the Headquarters / Secretariat of SECAM in Accra, Ghana. There are three official languages of SECAM, namely, English, French and Portuguese. SECAM functions through eight regional conferences, each made up of a cluster of national episcopal conferences.
Irish Times
18-05-2025
- Politics
- Irish Times
Ruth Coppinger seems to think free speech applies only to views she likes
A little over a week ago, a small phalanx of journalists gathered outside Leinster House for what is called a doorstep with the People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger. Ben Scallan, who works for the right-leaning publication Gript and was a candidate in the 2020 general election for the Irish Freedom Party, asked a question that amounted to a standard, 'What's your reaction?' The context was Jim O'Callaghan 's plan to speed up deportations of failed asylum seekers. It must be frustrating for politicians (and other journalists) to repeatedly hear representatives from the same outlet ask the same handful of questions over and over, particularly when almost every issue – as is the case with Gript – seems to be filtered through the prism of immigration. But politicians find lots of questions journalists put to them irritating, and they are generally adept at channelling implacable courtesy in the reporter's general direction, while saying precisely nothing. Coppinger did not do that. She pointedly refused to answer, saying 'Not for Gript, no.' READ MORE Politicians shirk tricky or unwelcome questions all the time. But they don't blacklist entire media organisations, which are members of the Press Council, because they object to their editorial line She and her colleague Paul Murphy later laid out their position in some detail, which boils down to a refusal to take questions from that outlet. Coppinger says taking this stand against Gript has resulted in two serious death threats by online posters, but it is her view that the trolling 'confirms we were right to not engage'. Several commentators who would probably describe themselves as liberal and left-leaning agreed with her, arguing that politicians have a right to refuse to deal with media outlets they don't like. The issue here isn't actually very complex, despite Coppinger's attempt to roll it up into everything from an ideological clash between right and left to her perception of the failings of individual journalists. (In a late-night tweet, she called two journalists who challenged her position on this 'very pathetic', for which she subsequently apologised – though not, it is fair to say, with gushing sincerity. She also claimed, without offering any evidence, that the same journalists would not have made an issue of a politician refusing to engage with a left-wing outlet. This isn't an issue of right or left, or about whether you like or detest Gript's editorial line or its goady approach to politicians, or Coppinger's own politics. It's whether you believe in freedom of the press and believe politicians should be accountable to the media, and by extension to the electorate. At a time when all sorts of values feel in flux, freedom of speech and by extension freedom of the press remain one on which it is refreshingly easy to tell where you stand. There's a simple test. Do you believe in free speech? Do you believe in it for views and people you loathe? Unless you answer 'yes' to both questions, you don't believe in it. If this all sounds like a story you've seen play out before, it's because you have. You've seen it before when Donald Trump excluded the Associated Press from pooled press events at the Oval Office and on Air Force One because they refuse to call the Gulf of Mexico the 'Gulf of America'. You've seen it when the US president calls individual reporters or their questions 'stupid' or says they are 'animals' or 'some of the worst human beings you'll ever meet' or when he suggests, as he did recently, that CNN and MSNBC are 'illegal'. You don't have to look to Trump, Xi Jinping or Vladimir Putin to see independent journalism under assault. Moderate, liberal politicians might baulk at playground insults but they contribute to undermining the media when they drag their heels on reforming libel laws , cut funding to public media, refuse to engage with freedom of information requests or do nothing as big tech cannibalises the work of journalists. Despite frequent accusations of chumminess, there is for the most part a healthy distance between politicians and the media in this country. Sometimes it's more like a gulf. Sinn Féin robustly denies that it has a policy of encouraging its representatives to pursue media outlets they feel wronged by, but if it's not an actual policy, the party's willingness to resort to legal writs is certainly a noteworthy trend. Still, few salvos aimed at the media from political parties in this part of the world have been quite as overt as this. Politicians shirk tricky or unwelcome questions all the time. But they don't blacklist entire media organisations, which are members of the Press Council, because they object to their editorial line. Murphy vociferously denied that the position taken by People Before Profit-Solidarity had echoes of Trump's attacks on the media. 'That's different,' he said, when the similarities to the move to exclude AP from Air Force One were pointed out. 'We don't have the power to do that to Gript,' he added, a retort several football pitches from the point. Coppinger claimed, with equally perplexing logic, that 'the comparison to Trump is just ludicrous. I'm not a sexual predator.' But it is not a stretch to make that comparison. And the reason why this matters beyond the relatively narrow spheres of influence of Gript and PBP-Solidarity is because we are living through what has been called a 'democratic recession'. In many countries, democratic norms are being eroded by politicians who, once elected, start chipping away at anything that makes them accountable: civil service, courts and the media. It never happens overnight, but starts gradually, with a conflation of issues that have nothing to do with each other, or the suggestion that certain rights and values may not be absolute, or with the mocking and deriding of journalists. As Noam Chomsky puts it: 'If you're in favour of freedom of speech, that means you're in favour of speech precisely for views you despise. Otherwise you're not in favour of freedom of speech. There's two positions you can have on freedom of speech. Now you can decide which position you want.'
