Dear IABC EMENA Region Members
For me, wrapping up the year often serves as a call to reflect on the big moments that may have changed or shaped us over the past twelve months. When we look at some of the events that took place in 2022, we might be left feeling inspiring and motivated – but also fearful and helpless.
The war in Ukraine, fuel shortages and the energy crisis, along with skyrocketing costs of living, are concerns that came into our lives in 2022, and continue. The climate crisis, while not new, became more real for many with the extreme weather events we’re now facing.
At the same time, we’ve been navigating changes in the way we work for the better, innovating and advancing through technology as well as making some steps towards breaking biases when it comes to gender, race and beliefs.
We’re part of a profession that helps to put these challenges and opportunities front and centre. Communication can deepen understanding, inspire action and transform our worlds. Communication can make a difference.
This year, all proceeds from the IABC Foundation’s Gift of Communication program at the IABC World Conference went to the Ukraine Media Development Foundation as a stand against disinformation.
We also held an in-person conversation and sprint for change to explore how communication can be a catalyst for climate, kicking off a broader and continuing conversation online.
These are just some small examples of how we’re making strides. It all helps – collectively we can make some kind of difference.
We’ll be wrapping up the year at an EOY virtual mixer on 13 December from 7.30pm CET. Joining the event is special guest Rhea Wessel, an American journalist, author and speechwriter based in Germany. Please come along!
In January, we’ll be welcoming 2023 with our first City Connect of the year in the Netherlands, following similar successful events in Barcelona and London. Hope to see you in Amsterdam on 19 January.
In the meantime, please take care and best wishes to you and your families.
Karen Matthews
2022-23 IABC EMENA Region Chair
[email protected]