CSR TAKES CENTER STAGE: CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AND ELEGANCE AT THE 2024 SISA AWARDS
The Civic Centre came alive this weekend, hosting the 2024 edition of the Social Impact & Sustainability Awards. With elegance in the air and purpose at its heart, the event celebrated those championing change across corporate, academic, and individual spheres. Corporate heavyweights like Aradel Holdings PLC, IHS Towers Nigeria PLC, Leadway Assurance PLC, and Nestlé Nigeria PLC were recognized for their transformative projects. These organizations have seamlessly woven social impact into their operations, addressing challenges and uplifting communities. The academic sector also took the spotlight, with Caleb University showing how education can be a force for social progress. Meanwhile, Seven-Up Bottling and some other companies used their platforms to spark opportunities and empower countless lives. On the individual front, leaders like High Chief Michael Onuoha, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, and Dr. Ubon Udoh were celebrated for their visionary efforts in sustainability and CSR, proving that transformative change often begins with bold leadership. A major highlight of the evening was the launch of Eche Munonye’s much-anticipated book, “From Philanthropy to CSR: The Evolution of Corporate Responsibility in Nigeria.” This masterpiece is not just a guide—it’s a manifesto for aligning profits with purpose. The event also introduced the prestigious CSR Reporters Hall of Fame, immortalizing trailblazers who have set exceptional standards in CSR. Notable inductees included Festus Iyora, for wildlife preservation, and Dr. Kirti Sudhanshu, a champion of gender equality. The First Lady of Osun State, Chief (Mrs.) Titilola Adeleke, lent her voice to the evening, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts in tackling challenges like poverty, climate change, and gender inequality. Themed “Towards a Sustainable Future: Enhancing Corporate Social Responsibility for Inclusive Development,” the event was a perfect blend of sophistication and purpose. It was not just a celebration but a clarion call for more impactful CSR initiatives.