World PR Day, an annual event that brings together professionals, thought leaders, experts, and undergraduates from around the world, marked its second successful celebration in July 2022.
The event which aims to recognize and celebrate the field of public relations and communications while fostering a unified global agenda to enhance understanding and utilization of PR, will this July be held for the third year in a row.
In addition to the festivities, the 2022 edition of World PR Day showcased a global agenda designed to explore the noble aspects of the profession, address misconceptions and motivate PR practitioners to fulfil their duty of facilitating responsible communication, advancing organizational goals, and making positive contributions to society and the environment.
Ayeni Adekunle, Founder and Convener of World PR Day, emphasized the strategic significance of PR, stating, “PR plays a crucial role in building relationships, achieving business objectives, and preventing crises that could jeopardize companies or even lead nations to war. It shapes public opinion and creates a world where communication is intentional, credible, positive, powerful, and has a developmental influence.”
Last year’s World PR Day, themed “Trust, Truth, and Transparency,” witnessed an array of conferences, fireside chats, virtual and physical events, summits, and festivals organized by renowned PR and communications agencies such as GLG Communications, Global Media Alliance Forum, and the Public Relations Council of India. These engaging conversations delved into the depths of public relations, exploring its applications and emphasising the alignment of organisational values with social and environmental causes while highlighting authenticity and transparency.
Prominent voices from the industry, including Alastair McCapra of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), the late Francis Ingham of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), Nitin Mantri of the International Communications Consultancy Organization (ICCO), and other distinguished professionals, shared their insights during fireside chats. Over 150 agencies and 20 associations participated in the event, reaching over 36 million people, including non-PR practitioners, with their activities and platforms.
The resounding success of World PR Day 2022 was acknowledged in the Public Education category at the esteemed 2023 SABRE Awards organised by PRovoke Media. These awards recognize outstanding achievements in the public relations industry, honouring programs and initiatives that drive tangible business impact.
Looking ahead, the organisers of World PR Day are eager to expand the event’s global reach and inclusivity, as challenges such as language barriers, time zone differences, and cultural complexities have hindered effective communication and engagement across regions.
Undeterred by these obstacles, public relations practitioners worldwide are gearing up for the 2023 World PR Day, set to be celebrated on July 16th. Anticipating wider participation, this year’s theme, “Harnessing the Power of Public Relations,” will be explored through an array of physical events, increased involvement from PR agencies, internship opportunities for undergraduates, and exclusive discounts on select PR courses, among other exciting activities.
According to Convener, Ayeni Adekunle, the committee will be looking to incorporate even more global practitioners and associations worldwide and drive conversations that improve a clear understanding of public relations.
To learn more about World PR Day 2023 and access a detailed schedule of events, please visit wprd.app.