23rd SLIM Brand Excellence Awards embrace ‘Excellence in Human Intelligence’
The 23rd iteration of the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards, themed “Excellence in Human Intelligence,” has been launched. This prestigious event continues its tradition of celebrating exceptional achievements in Sri Lankan marketing and brand narratives. The awards promote constructive rivalry among Sri Lankan marketers, highlighting SLIM's commitment to marketing as a key economic force. The competition aids organisations in developing strategies that succeed in the marketplace and resonate with consumers.
Gayan Perera, President of SLIM, noted, “SLIM Brand Excellence evaluates the capabilities of Sri Lankan brand marketers working towards international standards. Our stringent evaluation process, including a comprehensive entry kit and jury presentations, ensures high-quality standards and transparency. We expect top brands from various sectors to showcase their compelling brand stories.” The awards feature 15 categories, including five primary and ten special award categories. Brands can enter multiple categories to highlight their diverse achievements.
Dr. Dilhan Jayatilleke, Vice President of SLIM, emphasised, "SLIM Brand Excellence is the most sought-after awards ceremony for marketers. Many brands and organisations have been recognised and have grown in stature through this platform. This year’s theme, 'Excellence in Human Intelligence,' underscores the creative work driven by human intelligence. We invite everyone to join us and showcase their human intelligence at work." Assessment standards are based on Brand Intent, Brand Content, Brand Process, and Brand Performance, conceived by the late Prof. Uditha Liyanage. A distinguished panel of judges will evaluate all entrants, starting with written submissions.
ADB Signs $50 Million Commitment to Accelerate Energy Transition in Asia and the Pacific
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $50 million commitment to Actis Asia Climate Transition Fund, an infrastructure fund managed by Actis, a global sustainable infrastructure investor, to help accelerate the clean energy transition and address development challenges arising from climate change impacts in Asia and the Pacific.
The fund will invest in renewable energy, energy solutions, and sustainable transportation companies. Investment size will typically range from $50 million–$200 million per company.
"Several Asian economies are vulnerable to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and biodiversity losses,” said ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations Suzanne Gaboury. "ADB’s investment in the fund will help address these vulnerabilities by advancing efforts to build climate-resilient infrastructure and adopt climate-smart technologies in Asia and the Pacific.”
Investee companies will be helped in creating net-zero plans that align with the Paris Agreement and in committing to a credible pathway to reduce emissions.
New Age of Customer Service is Here with AI Assistants
Home-grown, fully-integrated Public Relations Agency Nehemiah Consultants is partnering with the futuristic tech company IG Technologies to introduce the customer service agent of the digital age, AI Assistants to Sri Lanka. Through the strategic partnership Nehemiah will be the authorized reseller in Sri Lanka for AI Assistants by IG Technologies.
AI Assistants are tailor-made AI applications that can be integrated to a client’s website to perform the functions of a customer service agent and more. AI Assistants can increase efficiency and boost revenue by being available 24/7, and handle multiple inquiries at the same time. The assistant can communicate effortlessly with a global audience with a 40+ language capability. Responses can be customized to suit industry, geographical location, and to match the tone of voice of your brand.
