PRISA speakers promise climate of change

Though its focus is on sustainability and 'green' issues, it will cover other issues set to shape the industry for the next few years. The keynote address, by Karin Ireton, director of group sustainability management at Standard Bank, will outline how the PR and communications management profession can play a role in driving the sustainable business agenda as an imperative.

The conference will also look at the topic of integrated reporting, which has ushered in a new era for corporates to meet the needs of investors and other stakeholders. The session will be led by Reana Rossouw, founding director of boutique management and business consulting firm Next Generation Consultants, who will look at longer term horizons in connecting the total external impact of business - namely financial, social and environmental.

Shifting focus to wider industry happenings, Louise Marsland, editor-in-chief and brand strategist of AdVantage magazine, will present on important trends for media relations and communication practitioners. There will be presentations on the future of the profession and the need for certification in the industry to ensure high quality service.

Workshops, winner's insight

Practical workshops include a look at the evolving issue of measurement in the context of the Barcelona Declaration of Principles, as well as the impact of technology on the industry.

Also under the spotlight is the Stockholm Accords, which will be the subject of a panel discussion led by Estelle de Beer and Professor Anne Gregory, director of the Centre for Public Relations Studies at Leeds Metropolitan University in the UK.

As in past years, the conference also provides a platform for audiences to unpack the successes of the PRISM overall Gold Winner, this year being Kulula's "Not The World Cup" campaign conceptualised by Atmosphere.

For more information, go to www.prisa.co.za.