Digicel has once again made the shortlist for the World Communications Awards, this time in the social contribution category, recognizing the Digicel Jamaica Foundation’s efforts to support the blind community. This marks the 26th edition of the awards, which began in 1999 to highlight innovation and excellence in the global telecom industry.
In 2023, the Digicel Foundation donated three braille machines to the Salvation Army School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. During the donation, the Digicel team learned that the school had only 26 functioning machines for its 130 students. In response, they partnered with The Open Door Foundation to launch the “Follow the Trail, Invest in Braille” campaign, initially aiming to provide 50 machines. This target was not only met but exceeded, with 42 public and private sector sponsors contributing to the effort, ultimately resulting in the donation of 107 braille machines and two embossers to the school.
Training is also being provided to ensure the machines are well maintained and can help students to a brighter future for many years to come.
Commenting on the initiative, Digicel Group CEO Marcelo Cataldo stated, “This incredible campaign truly showcases the power of partnership. The dedication of our amazing Digicel Foundation team, with their close ties to the community, ensures they’re always attuned to the pulse of progress. Coupled with the generosity of our public and private partners, we can respond to where the need is greatest, helping to create a world where no one gets left behind. My sincere thanks and congratulations to everyone involved, and fingers crossed for the award ceremony in London this December!”
Digicel has a strong track record at the World Communications Awards, having won the Best Operator in an Emerging Market for its work in Haiti in 2023. The company also received the Social Contribution Award in 2022 and 2020 for its initiatives in education in Haiti and special needs in Jamaica, respectively, as well as the Best Operator in an Emerging Market award for Papua New Guinea in 2019. Additionally, Digicel was shortlisted in the Customer Experience category in 2022, the Operator of the Year category in 2021, and the Social Contribution category in 2019 for both Haiti and Papua New Guinea.
The winners will be announced at a gala dinner at the Marriott Grosvenor Square in London on December 10, 2024.
