CIPR International celebrates 75th anniversary at British High Commissioner’s residence in Mauritius

In celebration of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations’ (CIPR’s) 75th anniversary this year, CIPR International hosted a networking event at the residence of H.E. Charlotte Pierre, British High Commissioner to Mauritius, on the evening of Tuesday, 24 October. The event brought together PR practitioners from across the country and served to showcase the strategic importance of the PR industry for Mauritius.

Founded in 1948, the CIPR, based in the UK, is the world’s only Royal Chartered professional body for public relations practitioners with nearly 11,000 members across more than 80 countries.

Addressing the audience of PR practitioners and aspirants alike

In her introduction to the event, a key member of the CIPR International Committee, Communications Consultant and a Lecturer of PR at Middlesex University Mauritius, Izabela Hamilton, noted “There is a tremendous value in being part of an international community of professional peers who are eager to share ideas, inspire each other and show commitment to lifelong learning. This collaborative culture is one of the main appeals for PR Practitioners to join in.”

Providing key insights, Chair of CIPR International and founder of the CIPR Mauritius network, Samantha Seewoosurrun elaborated, “It is a great pleasure to be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations at the British High Commissioner’s residence, and we would like to warmly thank her and all of our sponsors for their support. CIPR International is one of the largest sectoral groups of the CIPR, with almost 1000 members, and I am delighted to say that we are seeing an increasing number of members from overseas. We are committed to supporting our members by facilitating understanding of cultural differences, building relations with other countries, and helping members benchmark, share and learn from international best practice through webinars and other activities. I would strongly encourage PR professionals in Mauritius to join us - whether they are just starting out, climbing the career ladder or already an experienced practitioner - to enhance their career prospects and prove their value on the market.”

Commenting on CIPR’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, the incoming Vice-Chair of CIPR International for 2024 & EDI Champion, Taazima Kala-Essack, remarked: “The CIPR International group is now stronger and more diverse than ever before. The launch of CIPR’s EDI strategy earlier this year, along with having just achieved the UK's National Equality Standard (NES), exemplifies the power of PR in fostering greater equity, diversity, and inclusion. CIPR is the first professional body to secure this, as well as the first to achieve the accreditation based on assessment of both staff and volunteers."

Chartered CIPR professional, Founder and Director of The Talent Factory, and a member of the Editorial Board for CIPR Magazine, Influence, Marie-Noelle Elissac Foy, remarked: “My journey with the Chartered Institute of Public Relations has been transformative. Becoming a Chartered PR practitioner has provided me with a solid foundation of insights and resources that have proven to be indispensable in my career growth. These resources have not only enhanced my strategic thinking but have also fostered a deep understanding of the ethical and professional responsibilities that come with the practice of public relations. This journey is not only shaping my career but is also enriching my personal and ethical growth.”

Representing the event’s platinum sponsor, CSI Energy Group, Stephane Lamvohee, the Group Communication and Marketing Manager, commented “Words have the power to change worlds and reshape perceptions. In the energy sector, how we communicate can make the difference between understanding and scepticism. It's a privilege for CSI Energy Group to stand with CIPR International on its 75th anniversary, recognising the important role PR professionals play in shedding light on our industry's challenges. Together, with the right words and narratives, we can drive a more informed and positive perception of the energy landscape.”

Recognising the special contribution of communications professionals to PR and society

In her closing address, H.E. Charlotte Pierre, British High Commissioner, said she was delighted to host the 75th anniversary celebration of the CIPR. Ms. Pierre underscored the crucial role that its international network has made since its founding in the UK in 1948.

“This celebration caps a host of activities that have recognised the special contribution that communications professionals have made to society over the decades. These included events at St Bride’s Church and Fleet Street in London to mark the CIPR’s journey over its 75 year history, and to reflect on the future of the PR profession. I understand there was also a showcase of PR campaigns, which demonstrated the enduring power of PR in driving and shaping positive change. And there was a lecture by the UN Under-Secretary-General for Communications (Melissa Fleming) in memory of Maggie Nally – the first woman to be President of the CIPR. Ms Fleming rightly highlighted the challenges the international community faces today around disinformation and misinformation”.

Ms. Pierre also took the opportunity to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of Samantha Seewoosurrun. She said that Samantha’s commitment to the growth and success of the PR sector in Mauritius, and beyond – and her commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and upholding professional standards – is commendable.

The event was supported by CSI Energy Group as the premium sponsor, followed by HSBC, MaxCity Property Fund, Africa Specialty Risks, PhoenixBev, Middlesex University Mauritius and communicationsC!