The glitz and glamour of the Social Impact and Sustainability Awards (SISA 2024), hosted by CSR Reporters, took center stage on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at The Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. With the theme “Towards a Sustainable Future: Enhancing Corporate Social Responsibility for a Sustainable and Inclusive Development,” the event celebrated trailblazers in sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) across Nigeria.
A highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Ziad Maalouf, CEO of Seven Up Bottling Company, who also received the prestigious Social Impact Personality of the Year Award. His compelling speech, filled with thought-provoking insights and actionable strategies, has since generated widespread positive reactions across industries, with many corporate executives and media houses clamoring for a copy of the presentation to guide their organizations’ CSR and sustainability efforts.
In his keynote, Maalouf passionately emphasized the need for companies operating in Nigeria to deepen their investments in the communities they serve. “CSR is not charity; it is an investment in the sustainability of the ecosystems that support our businesses. When we empower our communities, we are laying the foundation for shared prosperity and long-term growth,” he stated.
Drawing from his own leadership experience at Seven Up Bottling Company, Maalouf highlighted successful CSR initiatives that have uplifted communities through education, healthcare, and environmental preservation. He urged companies to think beyond short-term profits and instead focus on strategies that create lasting impact for people and the planet.
The keynote, which has been described as transformative, has continued to resonate with stakeholders in various sectors. Leaders across industries are hailing Maalouf’s message as a critical blueprint for navigating the often-complex terrain of CSR and sustainability. Requests for the full presentation have poured in from corporate executives, government officials, and media houses, underscoring the depth of its influence.
Recognition and Awards
Maalouf’s efforts in driving impactful social initiatives earned him the Social Impact Personality of the Year Award, an accolade that recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to sustainable development. His award was one of many given during the event, which celebrated organizations and individuals who are setting the standard for CSR and sustainability in Nigeria.
A Call to Action
The SISA 2024 event left attendees inspired and energized to take bold steps in advancing CSR in their respective organizations. Guests praised CSR Reporters for creating a platform that not only recognizes efforts but also sparks critical conversations around sustainable development.
As Nigerian businesses continue to explore innovative ways to contribute to societal progress, Ziad Maalouf’s keynote stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in the communities where they operate.
For further details about SISA 2024 and upcoming CSR initiatives, visit www.csrreporters.com or contact CSR Reporters via email at enquiries@csrreporters.com or by calling 0803 401 2198, 0902 578 8002.