CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports

CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports https://www.csrwire.com/rss/feed CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports en-US Legacy Beauty Brand Mary Kay Debuts Miss Conceptions, a Social Media Series Set To Modernize & Destigmatize https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825796-legacy-beauty-brand-mary-kay-debuts-miss-conceptions-social-media-series-set Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:00:10 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825796-legacy-beauty-brand-mary-kay-debuts-miss-conceptions-social-media-series-set Mary Kay Mary Kay Inc., a global beauty powerhouse with 60+ years of innovation, is furthering its mission of enriching the lives of women worldwide with the launch of Miss Conceptions. <img alt="person talking on a landline phone" data-align="center" data-caption="Mary Kay Inc. is furthering its mission of enriching the lives of women worldwide with the launch of Miss Conceptions. This bold new social media series leans into “real talk” to address longstanding myths about the brand with humor, authenticity, and cultural relevance (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="adbddaad-da73-4c29-9111-10cba390cb15" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/miss-conceptions-social-media-serie_Mary-Kay_090425.jpg" width="540" /> DALLAS, September 8, 2025 /CSRwire/ - <a href="http://www.marykay.com/" target="_blank">Mary Kay Inc.</a>, a global beauty powerhouse with 60+ years of innovation, is furthering its mission of enriching the lives of women worldwide with the launch of <a href="https://youtu.be/2NW9_374jUU" target="_blank">Miss Conceptions</a>. This bold new social media series leans into “real talk” to address longstanding myths about the brand with humor, authenticity, and cultural relevance. Through short-form, shareable content, Miss Conceptions introduces a fresh digital persona that empowers the next generation of beauty lovers and aspiring entrepreneurs while sharing facts about the company. Crafted to resonate with Gen Z and Millennial consumers, Miss Conceptions brings “no filters, just facts” to TikTok, Instagram and beyond – debunking misconceptions like “Isn’t Mary Kay just for grandmas?” and “Is Mary Kay still around?” The series also reclaims the brand’s iconic status. From the pink Cadillac to its role in shaping countless women’s first beauty experiences, Mary Kay’s legacy extends far beyond products. Today, the company leverages its heritage to fuel forward-looking growth by modernizing its voice, embracing innovation, driving global social impact, and empowering women to define success on their own terms. “Mary Kay has always been about more than makeup – it’s about changing women’s lives,” said Candie Rodriguez, Vice President, Marketing & Sales Support, Mary Kay. “For over six decades, we’ve been honored with global recognition for our innovation, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship, but the most powerful legacy is the millions of women whose lives have been touched by Mary Kay. Through Miss Conceptions, we’re reintroducing ourselves to today’s consumer – while reminding the next generation that Mary Kay is a place where beauty and opportunity meet.” At a time when consumers are not only beauty savvy but brand savvy – and constantly inundated with purchasing options and conflicting information – Miss Conceptions breaks through the clutter with a fresh voice that speaks directly and confidently. Mary Kay drew inspiration for the “Miss Conceptions” persona from today’s rising beauty consumers – playful trendsetters who thrive on creativity as well as ambitious, boundary-pushers. The character embodies this mix of energy: bold in her approach to beauty, authentic in her outlook, and confident in her pursuit of progress. By culminating these traits, Miss Conceptions reframes Mary Kay as a modern, social-driven path that resonates with the next generation of beauty lovers and entrepreneurs. The launch of this series builds upon Mary Kay’s commitment to the next generation of brand loyalists and business owners, which includes: <ul> <li>Mary Kay® Skin Care: a customizable line for younger consumers who are not ready for age-defying products yet.</li> <li>AI Foundation Finder: a first in direct selling industry, this intuitive technology is designed to help consumers effortlessly find their foundation match, while empowering Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants to guide their customers in finding the right match from their phones.</li> <li>Brand Refresh: sleek new packaging that balances heritage with bold, modern design and commitments to product stewardship.</li> </ul> In 2024, nearly 30% of new Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants were under the age of 352, and today, 38% of the brand’s social following is made up of Next Gen audiences3. Miss Conceptions is designed to accelerate this momentum—further expanding reach, reshaping perceptions, and supporting the next wave of Mary Kay brand lovers. The Miss Conceptions social media series begins this September on Mary Kay’s social platforms (@marykayus) and will run through December. Content will also extend beyond organic channels through paid placements across connected TV (Hulu/Disney+, Peacock, Max, Paramount, Discovery+) and digital out-of-home advertising, ensuring the message reaches Next Gen audiences wherever they are consuming content. About Mary Kay One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 40 markets. For over 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at <a href="https://www.marykay.com/" target="_blank">marykay.com</a>. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaryKay/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marykayus/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/marykayglobal/mycompany/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, or follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryKayGlobal" target="_blank">X</a>. 1 Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2025 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2024 data. 2 Source: Mary Kay Inc., 2024 U.S. data. 3 Source: Mary Kay Inc., 2025 U.S. data. # # # , full_html, Mary Kay Inc., a global beauty powerhouse with 60+ years of innovation, is furthering its mission of enriching the lives of women worldwide with the launch of Miss Conceptions. Helping Drive Outcomes Through Community Health Engagement https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825791-helping-drive-outcomes-through-community-health-engagement Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:45:05 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825791-helping-drive-outcomes-through-community-health-engagement DaVita Research shows that Americans only go to the doctor when they feel sick. In fact, nearly two in three people have a reactive approach to their health, rather than a proactive one — making appointments only when something feels “extremely wrong.” <blockquote><img alt="DaVita logo" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0db1a9c-0428-405d-ab51-171face3f293" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/DaVita_Logo%20%283%29.jpg" /> “It’s so important to know your numbers. As someone living with diabetes and other health conditions, I hadn’t had a kidney screening before, so I was really glad to get one for free today.” Quote from <a href="https://newsroom.davita.com" target="_blank">DaVita</a> community health event </blockquote> Research shows that Americans only go to the doctor when they feel sick. In fact, nearly two in three people have a reactive approach to their health, rather than a proactive one — making appointments only when something feels “extremely wrong.”[1] And in 2021, nearly 20% of adults hadn’t seen a doctor in the previous 5 years.[2] Barriers such as lack of insurance, limited time or inadequate transportation, combined with the often-intimidating environment of traditional clinics, worsen health disparities and restrict access to care. Community health events present a powerful response to systemic barriers in healthcare. By bringing essential screenings and health education directly into trusted community spaces, these initiatives enhance individuals’ comfort and confidence in managing their health[3]— ultimately supporting better health outcomes.[4] <blockquote> “It’s important to have these kinds of things because people don’t always have access or make time to go to the doctor. But if you got this, at least it gives you something to take back to your primary care. I’m so glad DaVita is here doing this for us.” Quote from DaVita community health event </blockquote> Building on past successes, DaVita is launching this year’s <a href="https://communityhealth.davita.com/" target="_blank">Community Health Experience</a>, a strategic, three-city initiative targeting Orlando, Houston, and Los Angeles. These areas were identified as having significant barriers to healthcare access. In response, DaVita will host free health education sessions and no-cost screenings for diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease. These screenings are crucial for early detection, enabling timely interventions that can slow disease progression and reduce the burden of advanced chronic conditions, directly impacting clinical outcomes in chronic disease management. The strength of these events lies in meeting people where they are — in familiar spaces. Even a single interaction can equip individuals with essential knowledge and resources, encouraging greater engagement in their health journey and supporting long-term improvements. <blockquote> "When I saw the news story about free health screenings, I knew I had to bring my whole family. We lost our insurance and haven’t been able to see a doctor in over a year.” Quote from DaVita community health event </blockquote> Learn More The Community Health Experience kicks off on August 14 in Orlando. More information can be found at <a href="https://communityhealth.davita.com/" target="_blank">CommunityHealth.DaVita.com</a>.   <a href="https://newsroom.davita.com/2025-davita-community-health-experience#_ftnref1" title="">[1] </a><a href="https://talker.news/2023/10/16/2-in-3-only-see-a-doctor-when-something-feels-extremely-wrong/" target="_blank">https://talker.news/2023/10/16/2-in-3-only-see-a-doctor-when-something-feels-extremely-wrong/ </a> <a href="https://newsroom.davita.com/2025-davita-community-health-experience#_ftnref2" title="">[2]</a> <a href="https://www.onlinedoctor.com/nearly-1-in-5-americans-havent-seen-a-doctor-in-over-five-years/" target="_blank">https://www.onlinedoctor.com/nearly-1-in-5-americans-havent-seen-a-doctor-in-over-five-years/</a>  <a href="https://newsroom.davita.com/2025-davita-community-health-experience#_ftnref3" title="">[3]</a> <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10425604/" target="_blank">https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10425604/</a>  <a href="https://newsroom.davita.com/2025-davita-community-health-experience#_ftnref4" title="">[4]</a> <a href="https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2012.1061" target="_blank">https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2012.1061</a> , full_html, Research shows that Americans only go to the doctor when they feel sick. In fact, nearly two in three people have a reactive approach to their health, rather than a proactive one — making appointments only when something feels “extremely wrong.” Former Patient’s Gift Is Music to Bone Marrow Recipients’ Ears https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825786-former-patients-gift-music-bone-marrow-recipients-ears Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:35:06 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825786-former-patients-gift-music-bone-marrow-recipients-ears Aflac Incorporated Four years ago, Taylor Brown received a bone marrow transplant at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta as treatment for severe aplastic anemia. <img alt="Instruments shown at the Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center." data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="358a7190-5f9a-48f3-8011-29882892f709" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Aflac_CHOA_music%2Btherapy.jpg" /> <a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/Former-patients-gift-is-music-to-bone-marrow-recipients-ears" target="_blank">Originally published on Aflac Newsroom</a> Four years ago, Taylor Brown received a bone marrow transplant at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta as treatment for severe aplastic anemia. To honor the anniversary of her transplant, 16-year-old Taylor was deeply inspired to give back in a meaningful way, using her Make-a-Wish to donate a mobile music therapy cart to ensure even more patients get to experience the healing benefits of music therapy. After her diagnosis, Taylor underwent four rounds of chemotherapy before finding a 100% match for a bone marrow transplant — her sister. So, in 2021, she received the transplant and spent several months in the bone marrow transplant unit. “Being in the bone marrow transplant wing meant being totally quarantined, which was very isolating,” said Taylor. “The music therapy program was a source of strength and comfort for me during that time — that’s the power of music.” Today, anyone walking the halls of this unit will likely hear the sounds of music being made by patients. Working with Make-A-Wish Georgia, Taylor recently presented a state-of-the-art instrument cart for the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. The specially designed cart, called “Taylor’s Music Mover,” is equipped with high-quality instruments and recording technology, giving patients a unique opportunity to create music and record music videos. The music therapy program at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center allows patients to experience the hope, joy and healing that music can bring. Music therapists use instruments to help children cope with anxiety, express emotions and connect with others. The Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center is a national leader among childhood cancer, hematology and blood and marrow transplant programs. Since 1995, Aflac agents, employees and The Aflac Foundation have given more than $191 million to help fund programs, like this one, that focus on research and care for childhood cancer and blood disorders. Learn more about the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at <a href="https://www.choa.org/medical-services/cancer-and-blood-disorders" target="_blank">www.choa.org/medical-services/cancer-and-blood-disorders</a>. Z2500816 EXP 9/26   , full_html, Four years ago, Taylor Brown received a bone marrow transplant at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta as treatment for severe aplastic anemia. AllianceBernstein - Governance Matters: Don’t Overlook Board Oversight https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825781-alliancebernstein-governance-matters-dont-overlook-board-oversight Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:30:05 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825781-alliancebernstein-governance-matters-dont-overlook-board-oversight AllianceBernstein Most conversations around proxy voting focus on shareholder proposals and executive compensation. Meanwhile, the most significant votes tend to fly under the radar: director elections. <img alt=""."" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86646561-3028-410c-b9de-5b0d69a61d29" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/governance-matters-dont-overlook-board-oversight_ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN_082725A.jpg" width="640" /> Director elections can be a powerful tool for investors to weigh in on ineffective boards. Most conversations around proxy voting focus on shareholder proposals and executive compensation. Meanwhile, the most significant votes tend to fly under the radar: director elections. Boards of directors play a vital role in representing shareholder interests by overseeing a company’s strategic direction, monitoring management and ensuring accountability for the creation of long-term value. Director-election votes can be a powerful tool for weighing in on material governance issues. Increasingly, investors are doing just that. In the 2024 proxy season, directors who chaired their board’s nominating and governance committees received <a href="https://corpgov.law.harvard.edu/2025/03/10/2025-proxy-season-preview/" target="_blank">5% more dissenting votes on average</a>, reflecting investors’ willingness to hold specific directors accountable for board composition and broad governance concerns. Beyond conventional governance issues like director independence or shareholder rights, we have leveraged director elections to convey our perspective on issues ranging from product safety and quality to executive compensation to strategic transactions. A Higher-Quality Board May Bolster Performance Our votes are always aimed at improving investment outcomes by promoting good governance. While there are countless reasons that a company may underperform its peers, we have found a clear link between our assessment of a board’s effectiveness (as measured by our director votes) <a href="https://www.alliancebernstein.com/corporate/en/insights/investment-insights/governance-matters-the-proof-is-in-the-proxy.html" target="_blank">and a company’s future stock performance</a>. Since 2017, US companies with boards warranting our full support have gone on to deliver stronger median and average stock returns the ensuing year (Display). The results show a strong, consistent correlation across nearly all sectors and company sizes. Simply put, when a board doesn’t meet our expectations, it’s generally a leading indicator of underperformance. <img alt="Chart: US Companies with AB-approved boards have outperformed" data-align="center" data-caption="These findings reinforce our view that board effectiveness is a material investment consideration—and that director elections are among the most important votes an investor can cast." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8073c7f0-b4a2-416c-b622-87f4fdceaa0c" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/governance-matters-dont-overlook-board-oversight_ALLIANCEBERNSTEIN_082725B.png" /> What Makes a Board Effective? The board of directors is critical in overseeing management’s performance, composition and compensation. An effective board is necessary to managing the risks to a company’s operations and financial performance. Directors of public companies are ultimately responsible for ensuring that management acts in the best financial interests of all shareholders. Effective governance is often most visible during corporate turnarounds, where alignment between management and shareholders is essential. No matter the company or sector, effective boards are defined by their composition, structure and actions. High-quality board composition entails majority-independent oversight, and <a href="https://www.alliancebernstein.com/corporate/en/insights/investment-insights/the-case-for-multigenerational-corporate-boards.html" target="_blank">a variety of skills and backgrounds</a>, without attendance issues or excessive outside commitments. Structural mechanisms such as formal board committees, majority-vote standards and annual director elections ensure accountability. Lastly, boards demonstrate effectiveness through their actions: aligning pay with performance, ensuring disciplined allocation of capital and engaging with shareholders. Naturally, not all boards meet these criteria. If we determine that a board’s structure or actions aren’t aligned with our clients’ best financial interests, we may hold relevant directors accountable, which is consistent with our fiduciary duty. How does this work in practice? At a major US bank, we recognized historical governance shortcomings such as fraud, risk-management failures, workplace misconduct and broad misalignment with shareholders. We then engaged* in a multiyear dialogue with its board and senior leaders, consistently voting against relevant directors. Ultimately, the bank implemented improved oversight mechanisms as a part of a larger cultural overhaul, in addition to improving management incentives. Keep Your Eye on the Board We believe that investors should stay focused on a simple question: Is the board delivering for shareholders? Our research shows a clear connection: disappointing boards tend to deliver disappointing results, while boards earning our full support historically outperformed in the following year. Boards perform best when they know investors are watching. Director-election votes may not make headlines, but they’re where investors’ voices matter most.   *AB engages issuers where it believes the engagement is in the best financial interest of its clients. Landon Shea, Investment Stewardship Associate, and Cole Moore, Investment Stewardship Analyst, contributed significantly to the research for this blog. The views expressed herein do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations, do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to change over time. <a href="https://www.alliancebernstein.com/corporate/en/corporate-responsibility.html?syn:pan-emea:brand:3bl:eu942" target="_blank">Learn more about AB’s approach to responsibility here.</a> , full_html, Most conversations around proxy voting focus on shareholder proposals and executive compensation. Meanwhile, the most significant votes tend to fly under the radar: director elections. KeyBank and Cleveland Cavaliers Continue Commitment to Community Through Annual Food Distribution Event https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825776-keybank-and-cleveland-cavaliers-continue-commitment-community-through-annual Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:20:05 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825776-keybank-and-cleveland-cavaliers-continue-commitment-community-through-annual KeyBank On Friday, August 15, 2025, the Cleveland Cavaliers and KeyBank partnered to host the annual Cavaliers Community Market at The Salvation Army in West Park Corps, continuing their joint effort to tackle food insecurity in Northeast Ohio. <center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2025-09/Cavs%20Community%20Market%20%7C%20KeyBank.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center> CLEVELAND, September 8, 2025 /CSRwire/ - On Friday, August 15, 2025, the <a href="http://cavs.com/" target="_blank">Cleveland Cavaliers</a> and KeyBank partnered to host the annual Cavaliers Community Market at The Salvation Army in West Park Corps, continuing their joint effort to tackle food insecurity in Northeast Ohio. Now in its fourth consecutive year, this year’s collaboration featured five summer community markets throughout the region – each providing essential support to local families. Through these ongoing initiatives, the Cavaliers and KeyBank are making a tangible, positive impact on the lives of Northeast Ohio residents. Watch the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FRQWUChk3o" target="_blank">video above</a> to see KeyBank and Cavs volunteers in action. Volunteers from both organizations, including leadership from the Cavaliers, KeyBank and The Salvation Army, joined forces to pack and distribute fresh produce and pantry staples provided by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. The event served 226 individuals, offering not just food - but hope and support to local families in need. <img alt="KeyBank volunteers helping out at the Cleveland Cavaliers food bank." data-align="center" data-caption="Photo credit: Cleveland Cavaliers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31de8f7a-d8f9-42b6-acd4-59ae086af8db" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/250815_COMMUNITY_MARKET_SALVATION_ARMY-18_KeyBank_9.5.25B.jpg" /> “It’s not just about writing a check. It’s about lending a hand and building relationships,” said Kelly Lamirand, Cleveland KeyBank Market President and Regional Commercial Leader. “We’re looking to set an example and pay it forward.” The Community Markets are more than a one-day event; they are a reflection of long-term commitment. By aligning with their mission to remove barriers to opportunity, KeyBank and the Cavaliers are helping to create a stronger, healthier Northeast Ohio. “We're truly grateful to have wonderful partners like KeyBank and the Cleveland Cavaliers supporting our monthly produce distributions. These efforts make a meaningful difference, reaching hundreds of families and individuals and providing them with over a week's worth of fresh, healthy produce every month,” Major Juanita Stanford, Commanding Corps Officer of The Salvation Army in Cleveland West Park Corps. “Bringing both of our community teams together for such a meaningful initiative truly reflects the heart of who we are - at KeyBank and at the Cavaliers. It’s a powerful demonstration of our shared commitment to making a real impact,” said Kevin Clayton, Cleveland Cavaliers and Rock Entertainment Group Executive Vice President and Chief Impact & Equity Officer. <img alt="Cleveland Cavaliers volunteer handing out bags of food to members of the community." data-align="center" data-caption="Photo credit: Cleveland Cavaliers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ae251ce-a8a6-4f09-8650-068b70a39c3b" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/250815_COMMUNITY_MARKET_SALVATION_ARMY-15_KeyBank_9.5.25C.jpg" /> The Cavaliers Community Market is just one of many impactful ways KeyBank and the Cavaliers partner to give back to the Northeast Ohio community – and the support doesn’t stop there. Both organizations have additional initiatives on the horizon. , full_html, On Friday, August 15, 2025, the Cleveland Cavaliers and KeyBank partnered to host the annual Cavaliers Community Market at The Salvation Army in West Park Corps, continuing their joint effort to tackle food insecurity in Northeast Ohio. Inspiring The Next Generation of Entrepreneurs: 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge, Asia Pacific Winners Announced https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825771-inspiring-next-generation-entrepreneurs-2025-fedexja-international-trade Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:15:04 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825771-inspiring-next-generation-entrepreneurs-2025-fedexja-international-trade FedEx Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, together with Junior Achievement (JA), announced the winners of the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge Asia Pacific finals held at a live event in Singapore. <img alt="Students smiling and holding FedEx boxes" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df5b42f4-9095-4602-9c23-dc9e3e459a1a" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/inspiring-next-generation-entrepreneurs_FEDEX_082125.png" width="640" /> SINGAPORE, September 8, 2025 /3BL/ - Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, together with Junior Achievement (JA), announced the winners of the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge Asia Pacific finals held at a live event in Singapore. This year’s competition attracted over 4,700 students from 9 markets including Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. 54 students gathered in Singapore for the Asia Pacific finals and were tasked to create a market entry strategy for an eco-friendly product that upcycles discarded textiles into sustainable consumer goods, with France being the target market. With growing discourse among consumers on how products affect the environment, and the role corporations can play in shaping a sustainable future, the challenge was particularly relevant. Students were paired into teams of two from different markets, to foster cross-cultural understanding. The student teams then pitched their idea to a panel of judges made up of Singapore’s leading entrepreneurs and small business owners. “For nearly two decades, FedEx has proudly championed this program, empowering young entrepreneurs to think beyond borders and create solutions that address real-world challenges. In today’s interconnected economy, innovation goes hand in hand with building smarter, more resilient supply chains, and the next generation of business leaders will be at the forefront of this transformation. By fostering their creativity, determination, and global mindset, we’re investing in the future of commerce, one that is more connected, sustainable, and equipped to navigate the complexities of global trade,” said Kawal Preet, president, Asia Pacific, FedEx. The first-place winners were Team Spicy Noodles, consisting of Jamie Smith from the Republic of Korea and Kathy Nguyen from Vietnam. They impressed the judges with their innovative concept of an eco-friendly upcycling brand that transforms discarded textiles into custom embroidered artwork. The two runner-up teams were Team Innovement, composed of Janelle Anika S. Tan from the Philippines and Royden So from Hong Kong SAR, who developed a smart wall panel made from discarded textile waste; and Team ReTex, consisting of Panasarn Traithavil from Thailand and Lan Anh Phan from Vietnam, who proposed a new line of residential solar panels. “Competing alongside such talented peers from across Asia Pacific has been transformative. This challenge pushed us beyond textbook theories into real-world problem-solving, where we learned that successful international trade requires not just business acumen, but cultural sensitivity and genuine collaboration. This experience has given us the confidence to pursue entrepreneurial ventures that can make a meaningful impact across borders,” said Jamie Smith from the Republic of Korea and Kathy Nguyen from Vietnam of the winning Team Spicy Noodles. “Every time we bring young people together from across the Asia Pacific region, we see not just talent, but vision, drive, and the courage to build a better future for all. The FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge inspires our young leaders to collaborate with their partners, connect across borders, and grow as changemakers. At Junior Achievement, we remain deeply committed to unlocking the latent potential in our children and youth. When shown the trust and given the opportunity, they don’t simply step out into the world - they create a better one.” said Maziar Sabet, president and CEO, JA Asia Pacific. FedEx believes that investing in mentorship is essential to empowering the next generation of leaders to thrive. Hence, for the first time, the APAC winners will an exclusive opportunity to deepen their understanding of global commerce. They will visit FedEx operations facilities in their local markets and connect directly with team members. This hands-on experience will offer invaluable insights into the complexities of global logistics and supply chain management, equipping them with practical knowledge to complement their entrepreneurial journeys. The FedEx / JA International Trade Challenge program is jointly organized by FedEx and JA Asia Pacific, a member of JA Worldwide. In the last 19 years, over 50,000 students across Asia Pacific have been introduced to the world of business, economics and international trade through this program which incorporates classroom learning and practical teamwork exercises. In addition to supporting young entrepreneurs through JA ITC, FedEx has been organizing the <a href="https://www.fedex.com/en-sg/small-business/success-journey.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Small Business Grant Contest</a> (SBGC) to support small-and-medium-enterprises (SMEs) across Asia Pacific. Judges of the competition, comprised of entrepreneurs and business leaders, were impressed by the organization of the competition and the efforts made by the students. “The JA judging experience was very meaningful - it gave me a renewed sense of optimism; the future is the next generation - and I was thoroughly impressed by the effort and the proposals by the youth.” Nivedita Venkateish, Founder of Aire. “I was impressed by the energy, creativity and caliber of the student presentations, and feel very excited about the next generation of entrepreneurs from APAC.” Belina Tan, Vice President, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company. “The ideas and presentations, all done in only 48 hours were amazing. There’s so much to learn from the youths and I hope this valuable experience will continue to shape them as entrepreneurs throughout their lives.” Kloe Ng, Co-founder of Out of The Box Edu. “It’s always inspiring to see our brilliant younger generation navigate different languages/cultures and time pressures to present such creative and cogent business pitches. Kudos to JA and FedEx for organizing this challenge year after year.”Ze Ming Chan, Head of Growth Innovation, Foodpanda. “I found the FedEx/JA student competition a model for helping to prepare our next generation as future leaders and entrepreneurs, I hope the students benefited, I know the judges did, such a heartfelt day of sharing our experiences from work and life, with this group of students from across Asia, they were all amazing.” Rodney Geres, Senior Director, ICE. “The partnership between FedEx and JA creates a launchpad where the next generation learns that their ideas can travel as far as their imagination. Judging this Challenge was a front-row seat to that impact.” Camille R. Blair Camille, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Francis LLC. “The achievement and potential of our next generation in Asia inspire confidence in our future.” Daniel Yeung, Director, Tigris Water Company. “10 years ago, winning JA’s Social Innovation Relay was the spark that started my journey down the entrepreneurship rabbit hole. It’s been an honor to have the opportunity to sit on the other side of the table and review the tremendously well-crafted presentations by all participating students today, and I hope that they can carry that spark to guide their own journeys to find their passion and voice.” Kristoffer Jacek Soh Zhi Wei, Co-Founder & CEO, Beep. Click <a href="https://fedexcares.com/" target="_blank">here</a> to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program. , full_html, Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, together with Junior Achievement (JA), announced the winners of the 2025 FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge Asia Pacific finals held at a live event in Singapore. Sofidel Strengthens U.S. Operations With Third Paper Machine Startup at Circleville Plant https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825766-sofidel-strengthens-us-operations-third-paper-machine-startup-circleville Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:10:08 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825766-sofidel-strengthens-us-operations-third-paper-machine-startup-circleville Sofidel Sofidel America has successfully started up a third paper machine at its integrated plant in Circleville, Ohio. The milestone, achieved on September 4, 2025, further consolidates the site’s role as the company’s largest and most important production hub worldwide. <img alt="Group at Ohio plant" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3da6dbe9-7a64-460a-ad80-3bcd05da57ce" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/third-paper-machine-startup_Sofidel_090525.jpeg" width="640" /> CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio, September 8, 2025 /3BL/ - Sofidel America has successfully started up a third paper machine at its integrated plant in Circleville, Ohio. The milestone, achieved on September 4, 2025, further consolidates the site’s role as the company’s largest and most important production hub worldwide. The new Valmet DCT 200 machine adds 70,000 tons of annual capacity, bringing Circleville’s total output to more than 200,000 tons per year. With this expansion, Sofidel’s global production capacity rises to 1,983,000 tons annually. The $185 million investment, first announced in 2023, included both the construction of the new building and installation of the state-of-the-art machine. Once fully operational, the project will also create approximately 80 additional jobs, strengthening Sofidel’s contribution to the local economy. The successful startup of our third paper machine in Circleville represents a significant step forward in Sofidel’s growth strategy. This achievement reflects both the strength of our U.S. operations and the dedication of the teams who made it possible. With this expansion, Sofidel reaffirms its long-term commitment to serving the North American market with high-quality, sustainable tissue products while supporting local communities. , full_html, Sofidel America has successfully started up a third paper machine at its integrated plant in Circleville, Ohio. The milestone, achieved on September 4, 2025, further consolidates the site’s role as the company’s largest and most important production hub worldwide. Building a Safer Future at Covia https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825761-building-safer-future-covia Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:00:04 EDT https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/825761-building-safer-future-covia Covia Each September, Covia comes together for our company-wide Safety Day—a meaningful opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to one of our guiding principles, Safety First. At Covia, safety isn’t just a priority, <img alt="group photo" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="978b02c8-8e88-42fb-969b-f5e6213787f5" src="https://back.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/commitment-safety_Covia_90525.jpg" width="640" /> Each September, Covia comes together for our company-wide Safety Day—a meaningful opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to one of our guiding principles, Safety First. At Covia, safety isn’t just a priority, it’s a deeply rooted core value that shapes every aspect of our operations. This year’s Safety Day theme is Emergency Preparedness—a reminder of the importance of knowing how to respond when every second counts. In recent years, Covia team members have saved lives using AEDs, underscoring the value of being trained, equipped, and ready to act. Our 2025 Safety Day activities will strengthen our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, wherever they occur. Supporting this commitment is Covia’s Safety & Health Management System, a comprehensive framework that guides our approach to safety across all environments. It includes policy statements, legal compliance, training, contractor safety, and targeted programs addressing chemical, process, mine, rail, and workplace safety. We enforce Covia’s Life-Saving Rules and maintain a robust Emergency Response Plan, continuously integrating emerging standards to enhance risk management and foster a strong safety culture. Through our management systems, we: <ul> <li>Track safety performance</li> <li>Assess and manage risk</li> <li>Ensure proper training</li> <li>Host mandatory, company-wide safety reinforcement events</li> <li>Embrace change</li> <li>Set partner expectations</li> <li>Support product safety</li> </ul> We look forward to sharing the successes of our 2025 Safety Day as we continue building a safer, more prepared Covia. To learn more about Covia’s commitment to Safety, Health, and Security, <a href="https://www.coviacorp.com/corporate-responsibility/documents/" target="_blank">download</a> our latest Corporate Responsibility Report. , full_html, Each September, Covia comes together for our company-wide Safety Day—a meaningful opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to one of our guiding principles, Safety First. At Covia, safety isn’t just a priority,