Author Archives: Daniel Montile

The EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC) (www.EU-Africa-Chamber.org), a prominent organisation dedicated to advancing economic relations between Europe and Africa, and APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, are pleased to announce a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to boost EUACC’s mission of promoting sustainable business development, investment, and strong private sector growth between the two continents. As the official communications partner, APO Group will support EUACC events, initiatives, and outreach efforts through strategic press release distribution, media monitoring, and expert public relations support.

The mission of the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce is to contribute to the growth of a robust African private sector, facilitate meaningful dialogues on key economic and policy topics, and encourage mutually beneficial partnerships between Europe and Africa. In 2024, Africa hosts 11 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies and ranks as the second-fastest-growing economic region globally, behind Asia. EUACC works as a key facilitator for harnessing these opportunities by providing a platform for debate, connecting business leaders, and opening new avenues for career and business growth across Africa. Drawing on extensive experience in supporting Africa’s private sector ecosystem, EUACC empowers European companies to explore and invest in the continent’s vibrant industries, advancing cross-continental economic collaboration. As part of its advocacy for the African private sector, EUACC has developed a comprehensive strategy focused on five key pillars: access to finance, markets, innovation, influence, and sustainability. This targeted approach ensures impactful support for businesses and promotes sustainable development across Africa.

Commenting on the partnership, Sonia Toro, Executive Director of the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, said, “This partnership with APO Group represents an exciting opportunity to advance our mission of connecting European and African businesses. APO Group’s extensive experience in the African market, combined with their communications expertise, will help us bring greater visibility to our initiatives and drive impactful conversations on economic cooperation. Together, we aim to empower businesses, foster mutual growth, and deepen the relationship between Europe and Africa.”

APO Group’s Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), added, “We are honoured to work with the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce to support stronger business ties across Europe and Africa. This partnership is a powerful avenue for encouraging new opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation between our continents. At APO Group, we’re committed to leveraging our expertise to amplify EUACC’s voice, helping to highlight the tremendous potential within the EU-Africa business landscape.”

Since its founding 17 years ago, APO Group has grown steadily, providing press release distribution and communications services to over 300 clients, 85% of whom are multinational companies. Its client roster includes industry giants such as Microsoft, TikTok, Coca-Cola, Marriott, Canon, Western Union, MasterCard, KFC, GoDaddy, GE, Jeep, Toshiba, Vodacom, Universal Music, Binance, Kaspersky, Pfizer, and AstraZeneca, as well as major institutions like the African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, and the European Investment Bank. From 2012 to 2024, APO Group achieved an average annual growth rate of 35%, all without external funding, a testament to the demand for their specialised expertise and strong presence in the African market.

Through this partnership, the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce will leverage APO Group’s communication expertise to enhance the reach and impact of its key initiatives, which include trade missions, business forums, and networking events. APO Group will also assist EUACC in promoting major events such as the annual EU-Africa Business Forum, which brings together business leaders, policymakers, and investors to discuss opportunities and challenges within the EU-Africa trade corridor.

With this partnership, EUACC is poised to broaden its impact, helping ensure that the voices and achievements of African and European enterprises are recognised on the global stage.

This strategic alliance marks an important milestone in EUACC’s journey, as it continues to create lasting connections, drive new opportunities, and elevate the economic partnership between Europe and Africa. Together, EUACC and APO Group look forward to a shared mission of nurturing a dynamic, sustainable, and mutually beneficial future for both continents.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce:
The EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC) is a leading organisation dedicated to promoting and strengthening economic relations between Europe and Africa. With a mission to support the development of a robust African private sector, EUACC works as a key facilitator of business opportunities and sustainable partnerships across strategic regions. Leveraging its extensive experience and network, the Chamber provides invaluable resources, connections, and platforms for dialogue, enabling companies to explore growth opportunities, navigate regional markets, and drive impactful cross-continental collaboration.

EUACC fosters productive engagement by hosting trade missions, business forums, and industry-specific events that bring together European and African leaders, policymakers, and investors. Through these initiatives, the Chamber serves as a gateway for European businesses to access African markets and vice versa, helping both continents harness shared opportunities and drive innovation.

For more information, please visit: www.EU-Africa-Chamber.org.

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including the PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards, and World Business Outlook Awards in 2023. We have also been acknowledged as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa by Brands Review Magazine, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year by World Business Outlook in 2024.

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, Emirates, the UNDP, the WHO, and Coca-Cola, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With teams on the ground in numerous African countries, we offer unmatched insights and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.

For more information, please visit our website: https://www.APO-opa.com.

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been invited to speak at the ASU Connex Summit 2024, set to take place in London on Thursday, 21 November 2024. This year’s summit, themed “Leaders Advancing the African Sports Industry,” will unite global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders committed to transforming the African sports landscape.

The ASU Connex Summit 2024 promises an engaging series of high-level discussions and collaborations, uniting prominent figures from International Federations, media organisations, sponsors, sports ministers, and private investors. Together, they will explore strategies to leverage sports as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion across the continent. Building on last year’s participation from leading organisations like BBC, FIFA, AfroSport, and the Commonwealth Secretariat, this year’s summit will also welcome CAF, The African Paralympic Committee, the UK Department for Business&Trade, Premier League football clubs, Best of Africa Awards, Helios Sports&Entertainment, and many more.

Nicolas was named among Africa’s Top 100 Most Influential People in 2023 In 2023. His wholly owned company, APO Group, serves as the Pan-African public relations agency for the NBA, the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and the World Football Summit, and as the official press release distribution partner for YallaVamos 2030—the joint bid by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup™. APO Group is also the Official Public Relations Partner and Sport Marketing Agency for Rugby Africa, Strategic Partner of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), and a Partner of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), positioning the company as a key player in African sports communications. Previously, APO Group was the Pan-African PR agency for FIFA from 2020 to 2024. Nicolas also sits on the Advisory Board of the World Football Summit and serves as Special Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa.

“We are thrilled to have Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard join us,” said Gabriel Ajala, Founder of Africa Sports Unified. “His expertise in amplifying African success stories on a global scale will be invaluable as we discuss the vital role of media in driving investment, commercial growth, and development in the sports industry across Africa.”

Africa Sports Unified (ASU) is the premier Pan-African sports business organisation, serving as a knowledge hub and strategic consultancy for the Pan-African and emerging sports markets. With a growing community of over 4,000 key stakeholders, ASU connects leaders and fosters a sustainable sports ecosystem across Africa.

Watch the 2024 Africa Sports Unified Connex Summit Promo Video: https://apo-opa.co/3UXYFw5

To learn more about the event or to register, visit ASUnified.com.

More information about Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard: www.Pompigne-Mognard.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) stands as the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of both private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact in Africa and beyond.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation in communication strategies has been recognised with prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, five PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards and two World Business Outlook Awards in 2023 alone, in categories, among others, including Leading Public Relations Firm Africa 2023 and Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa 2023.

Our esteemed clientele, including global giants like Canon, Nestlé, TikTok or Coca-Cola, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape, with teams on the ground in numerous African countries, offering unmatched insights and reach across the continent.

APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.

For more information, please visit our website: www.APO-opa.com

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been invited to speak at EDHEC Business School in Lille, France, on Tuesday, 19 November. The event, organised by EDHEC For African Business, will explore the theme: “Foreign Investment in Africa: Drivers of Development or Threats to Sovereignty.” Pompigne-Mognard will provide insights into the complex impacts of foreign investment on African development, discussing both the challenges and opportunities in today’s evolving landscape.

With nearly 9,400 students, EDHEC Business School has maintained its 7th place in the 2023 Financial Times European Business School Ranking, reaffirming its position among Europe’s top 10 business schools. Renowned for its international reach and innovative curriculum, EDHEC operates across five academic campuses in Lille, Nice, London, Paris, and Singapore, as well as two entrepreneurship-focused campuses at Station F in Paris and the Jean Arnault campus in Roubaix. The school offers a comprehensive range of programmes, from the International BBA and specialised MScs to MBA degrees, along with a robust portfolio of executive education options, including the Global MBA, Executive MBA, and PhD in Finance.

EDHEC For African Business is an association founded in October 2015 with a mission to elevate African business and culture. Initiatives include hosting African Week, publishing the Minute Africa newsletter, and organising conferences and forums that spotlight African business trends.

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, a Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur recently named among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023, serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa.

Nicolas’ wholly owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, serving over 300 clients, including Microsoft, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, TikTok, DHL, Marriott Group, Ecobank, Canon, Orange, the Jack Ma Foundation, the African Development Bank, Afreximbank, Africa Finance Corporation, the Islamic Development Bank, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Radisson, the NBA, GoDaddy, Western Union, MultiChoice, and many more.

“I’m honoured to be invited to speak at one of Europe’s top business schools and to engage with a new generation of leaders on Africa’s pivotal role in the global economy. Foreign investment has the potential to drive transformative development across Africa, but it also brings complex challenges that demand a nuanced understanding and thoughtful approach. For example, the investment of foreign media companies in Africa holds particular significance, as it can shape narratives and, ultimately, influence the continent’s sovereignty. I look forward to exploring how we can ensure that all investment aligns with Africa’s goals, respects its sovereignty, and maximises benefits for all stakeholders involved”, said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group.

More information: www.Pompigne-Mognard.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) stands as the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of both private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact in Africa and beyond.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation in communication strategies has been recognised with prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, five PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards and two World Business Outlook Awards in 2023 alone, in categories, among others, including Leading Public Relations Firm Africa 2023 and Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa 2023.

Our esteemed clientele, including global giants like Canon, Nestlé, TikTok or Coca-Cola, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape, with teams on the ground in numerous African countries, offering unmatched insights and reach across the continent.

APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.

For more information, please visit our website: www.APO-opa.com

João Marques, Director of Strategy at APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), has been appointed as a strategic advisor to Decarb.earth, a Swiss-based sustainability start-up operating in the carbon credit landscape, to help accelerate renewable energy projects and decarbonisation efforts across Africa. In this advisory role, Marques will leverage his expertise to connect Decarb.earth with renewable energy developers in the region, supporting the company’s mission of driving sustainable development.

Decarb.earth is today at the forefront of carbon credit innovation, identifying renewable energy initiatives in developing markets and enabling them to access alternative financing solutions. By facilitating the issuance of high-quality carbon credits, the company empowers developers to reinvest in their projects, scaling their impact on emissions reduction.

“João Marques’ deep understanding of Africa’s energy landscape and his experience in strategic partnerships will be invaluable as Decarb.earth expands its reach on the continent,” said Marco Funk, founder, and CEO of Decarb.earth. “His involvement will help us identify new projects and foster relationships that will further our innovative platform’s capabilities.”

Marques expressed enthusiasm for the new role: “I am excited to support Decarb.earth in its efforts to bring more renewable energy solutions to Africa. Their vision for transforming the carbon credit market aligns with the continent’s urgent need for sustainable energy, and I look forward to contributing to their strategy in driving innovation and growth.”

As the Director of Strategy at APO Group, the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, and an expert in African energy markets, Marques will help bring together market insights and a strategic leadership to these efforts. This appointment also reflects APO Group’s broader commitment to supporting sustainability initiatives and promoting economic development across Africa.

Decarb.earth’s platform uses cutting-edge technology in the form of Smart Contracts to streamline carbon credit issuance, significantly reducing the time and costs associated with traditional methods. The company has already partnered with major players like Masdar and Go Solr to revolutionise the carbon credit landscape, ensuring efficient and impactful decarbonisation solutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is proud to announce a significant leadership appointment with the promotion of Senior Executive Assistant Michelle Scott to Vice President (VP) of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff.

These move underscore APO’s commitment to recognising potential, fostering leadership from within, giving team members the platform to advance in their careers, and highlight APO Group’s dedication to nurturing and elevating its internal talent.

In her new capacity, Michelle will spearhead the newly established Business Enablement Department. Her focus will be on optimising customer experience, driving operational efficiencies, and enhancing cost management. She will oversee project management, business analysis, and cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring seamless integration between the Business Enablement Team and all company departments.

“Michelle’s deep understanding of our business, combined with her strategic mindset and ability to identify areas for improvement, makes her the perfect choice to lead the Business Enablement team,” said Bas Wijne, CEO of APO Group. “Her analytical approach and commitment to finding effective solutions will be instrumental in driving operational excellence and supporting our long-term goals.”

In her dual role, Michelle will not only drive operational efficiencies as VP of Business Enablement but, as Chief of Staff, she will also serve as a trusted adviser and strategist to Founder and Chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, ensuring there is seamless alignment between leadership and APO Group’s overall vision.

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com) stated, “Throughout her time at APO Group, Michelle Scott has consistently shown exceptional loyalty, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. From the moment she joined as my Senior Executive Assistant, it was clear that she had the potential to contribute far beyond her role and grow alongside the company.

Her sharp and decisive leadership has earned Michelle the trust and respect of her colleagues. Her leadership has already delivered meaningful improvements to our operations, and we look forward to the continued infusion of fresh energy and strategic insights that she will bring as she officially joins our Leadership Team.”

“I am deeply honoured to assume the role of Vice President of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff at APO Group,” said Michelle Scott. “The establishment of the Business Enablement division highlights our organisation’s growth, evolution, and commitment to embracing new technologies and innovations. I am thrilled about this incredible opportunity and look forward to collaborating closely with our talented teams to advance our strategic objectives, enhance operational efficiencies, and continue delivering exceptional value to our clients.

I am confident that the exciting journey we embark on today will shape our future and solidify our position as the leading communications partner of choice in Africa. Additionally, I am immensely proud to be part of a company that not only values its clients but also prioritises the development of its team. My promotion is a testament to this commitment.”

APO Group is entering an exciting new chapter of innovation and growth. We are committed to delivering exceptional value to our clients and transforming the communications industry across Africa. We encourage our clients, partners, and stakeholders to join us on this journey as we continue to raise the bar, set new industry standards, and create a meaningful impact across the continent.  APO Group congratulates Michelle Scott on her well-deserved promotion and looks forward to the continued success she will bring in her new role as Vice President of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) stands as the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of both private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact in Africa and beyond.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation in communication strategies has been recognised with prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, five PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards and two World Business Outlook Awards in 2023 alone, in categories, among others, including Leading Public Relations Firm Africa 2023 and Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa 2023.

Our esteemed clientele, including global giants like Canon, Nestlé, TikTok or Coca-Cola, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape, with teams on the ground in numerous African countries, offering unmatched insights and reach across the continent.

APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.

For more information, please visit our website: www.APO-opa.com

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is proud to announce the appointment of Bas Wijne as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Bas Wijne, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at APO Group, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to his new role as CEO. His leadership will be pivotal in guiding APO Group through its next phase of growth and innovation, building on the strong results achieved in recent years. This includes the company’s exceptional year-over-year revenue growth. From 2012 to 2024, APO Group achieved an average annual growth rate of 35%.

In his previous role as COO, Bas significantly enhanced the company’s capabilities and profitability by focusing on operational excellence, process optimisation, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies.

Bas Wijne has been an integral part of APO Group’s journey, having previously served as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) from 2019 to 2021, where he played a crucial role in advancing the company’s technological infrastructure. His commitment to simplification and operational efficiency has created a culture of transparency and agility that benefits both colleagues and clients alike.

With over 20 years of experience in the media and technology industries, Bas Wijne is ideally positioned to lead APO Group in delivering Pan-African communications support to prominent companies across the continent. His extensive global experience, which spans countries such as The Netherlands, South Africa, Australia, Hong Kong, the USA, Uganda, China, and the United Arab Emirates, has equipped him with the insights and expertise needed to manage a diverse and cross-cultural workforce.

“Bas Wijne’s appointment as CEO marks an exciting new chapter for APO Group,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group. “Bas’s deep understanding of our business, combined with his vast experience and passion for technological innovation, makes him the perfect leader to guide us into the future. We are confident that under his leadership, APO Group will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the African communications industry.”

“I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at APO Group,” said Bas Wijne. “Having witnessed first-hand the incredible talent and innovation within this company, I am excited to lead APO Group as we continue to pioneer new ways of adding value to our clients across Africa. Our unique blend of people, ideas, and technology positions us to remain at the forefront of the industry, and I look forward to working with our team to achieve even greater success.”

APO Group’s appointment of Bas Wijne as CEO underscores the company’s commitment to leadership, innovation, and excellence in serving the African market. His vision and expertise will undoubtedly drive APO Group to new heights as the premier communications partner on the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media Contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) stands as the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of both private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact in Africa and beyond. 

Our commitment to excellence and innovation in communication strategies has been recognised with prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, five PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards and two World Business Outlook Awards in 2023 alone, in categories, among others, including Leading Public Relations Firm Africa 2023 and Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa 2023. 

Our esteemed clientele, including global giants like Canon, Nestlé, TikTok or Coca-Cola, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape, with teams on the ground in numerous African countries, offering unmatched insights and reach across the continent. 

APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. 

For more information, please visit our website: https://www.APO-opa.com

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is glad to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), will be a guest speaker at the seventh edition of the EurAfrican Forum 2024 (www.EurAfricanForum.org). The event, organised by the Portuguese Diaspora Council, will take place at NOVA School of Business and Economics in Cascais, Portugal on 15 – 16 July 2024.

Launched in 2018 and chaired by the former President of the European Commission and current Chair of the Board of Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, Professor José Manuel Durão Barroso, the EurAfrican Forum is an action-oriented platform that seeks to strengthen collaboration between Europe and Africa. Previous editions of the EurAfrican Forum were attended by the Presidents of Ghana, Mozambique, and Angola, along with a diverse array of influential leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.

Commenting on his participation, Pompigne-Mognard said, “I am honoured to join this distinguished forum and share insights on how the sports industry can be a catalyst for the growth of the continent. Sports go beyond entertainment. It is widely recognised by development actors as a catalyst and an enabler of human development and social good, offering opportunities for jobs and revenue generation through sponsorships, broadcasting rights, merchandise sales, venue management, tourism, infrastructure development, event management, hospitality services, sports technology, and fan engagement. Sports can also influence urban development by revitalising areas through the construction of stadiums and sports complexes, contributing to local economies.”

Pompigne-Mognard serves on the Advisory Board of the World Football Summit.

In June 2023, he was appointed as Special Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa, to provide expert advice and guidance on specific issues and areas of responsibility related to rugby and matters of interest on the African continent.

Pompigne-Mognard’s wholly-owned enterprise, APO Group, has been FIFA’s pan-African public relations agency for the past three years and serves as the pan-African public relations agency for the NBA and the Basketball Africa League. It also functions as the strategic partner of the Olympic Movement in Africa (ANOCA).

From 2017 to 2022, APO Group held the position of Main Official Sponsor of Rugby Africa. In 2023, it advanced to become Rugby Africa’s official public relations partner and sport marketing agency. APO also sponsored Africa’s first-ever World Tour cycling team, NTT Pro Cycling, from 2020 to 2022, and the Lux Afrique Polo Day from 2019 to 2021. It maintains strategic partnerships with the International Press Sport Association (AIPS) and is the official partner of the OM Africa development programme of the renowned French football club, Olympique de Marseille.

Recently, The Beast Foundation, a prominent sports and education programme established by former Springbok rugby legend and Rugby World Cup winner, Tendai Mtawarira (The Beast), selected APO Group as its exclusive public relations partner.

Pompigne-Mognard was listed among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023.

Other representatives from APO Group attending the EurAfrican Forum 2024 include João Marques, Director of Strategy, and Eleanor Legge-Bourke, Senior Growth Director.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
Marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) stands as the premier award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of both private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact in Africa and beyond.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation in communication strategies has been recognised with prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, five PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards and two World Business Outlook Awards in 2023 alone, in categories, among others, including Leading Public Relations Firm Africa 2023 and Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa 2023.

Our esteemed clientele, including global giants like Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, and Coca-Cola, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape, with teams on the ground in numerous African countries, offering unmatched insights and reach across the continent.

APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.

For more information, please visit our website: www.APO-opa.com

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is proud to announce the inclusion of Rania El-Rafie, Vice President, Public Relations and Strategic Communication, in the 2023-2024 ‘50 Remarkable African Women in Communication and Media’ list.

Known as the #Nzinga50, the annual ‘50 Remarkable African Women in Communication and Media’ list is published by CommsOfAfrica, a pan-African provider of specialist information on the communication, media, and content creation sectors in Africa. Covering the entire African continent, as well as the diaspora, the list consists of exceptional African women who contribute significantly to advancement and innovation in their respective fields. Criteria for inclusion in the list include professional achievements and societal impact, reputation and influence, and creativity and vision.

Rania joins a notable list of female industry leaders who are inspiring and transforming Africa’s communications and media landscape. From corporate and agency PR professionals to independent consultants, journalists, producers, presenters, and TV hosts, all are making a lasting impression in their chosen disciplines.

“It is truly an honour to be included in the list of 50 remarkable African women in PR, together with some of the most influential and recognised names in our industry,” said Rania El-Rafie, Vice President, Public Relations and Strategic Communication at APO Group.

“Promoting diversity, inclusivity, and gender equality in our industry is something that I am deeply passionate about, and it is high on APO Group’s agenda as well. With 67% of our staff being female, and 50% of our management team, our inclusive approach not only enriches our company culture, but promotes innovation and success.

“At APO Group, our purpose is to champion Africa’s narratives, amplify Africa’s voices, and bridge Africa and the world. This goes beyond simple public relations, to redefining perceptions of Africa, including the roles of women. This accolade is another way in which we are demonstrating the progress that has been made in this regard.”

This award follows the recent announcement of APO Group as Best PR Agency Africa 2024, Leading Communication Consultancy Africa 2024, and Leading Press Release Distribution Platform Africa 2024 by Brands Review Magazine, further demonstrating the company’s commitment to excellence in the PR and communications industry.

In January of this year, Rania, who hails from Egypt, became the first person to be promoted to VP of Public Relations and Strategic Communications from within APO Group, and the youngest person ever to hold this key role. Since joining APO Group in 2020, Rania has managed the company’s most prestigious accounts, heading up a team of PR and communications professionals who work with some of the continent’s most influential brands, including Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, Jack Ma Foundation, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Marriott, AstraZeneca, European Investment Bank, Afreximbank, Islamic Development Bank, Vertiv, NBA, Basketball Africa League, Siemens Gamesa, Siemens Energy, GITEX, KONE, Mercy Ships, MSD, Qatar African Business Forum, Western Union, and Rugby Africa.

Download the #Nzinga50 list: Nzinga50 – Edition 2023-2024 – Comms Of Africa (https://apo-opa.co/49QXqU4)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.