World’s Biggest Cocktail Festival Unveils Jacob Martin as World’s Best Bartender

Highly anticipated competition brings colourful cocktail experiences and never-before-seen collaborations to the city of São Paulo

WORLD’S BIGGEST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL UNVEILS JACOB MARTIN AS WORLD’S BEST BARTENDER

Jacob Martin celebrates his win at the World Class Global Bartender of the Year awards.

SÃO PAULO, Brazil, Sept. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jacob Martin, from Canada, has been recognised by industry legends as the 2023 World Class Global Bartender of the Year. He shook off competition from over 10,000 other elite bartenders who attempted this year’s Everest of bartending.

The competition saw Jacob participate in a series of challenges over four days. From creating classic cocktails and elevating them to a TEN with bartender favourite, Tanqueray No. TEN, Jacob also dared to go one step beyond with Johnnie Walker Black Label’s versatility of flavours, as well as creating a Ketel One Garnished with Good cocktail which not only impressed the judges with its flavour creativity but delivered a positive impact in their local community in Canada.

Upon winning, Jacob said: “It’s an unbelievable honour to win World Class. Not just because it’s the pinnacle of the industry but also because of the giants I’ve had the privilege of competing with this week. Bartending is an amazing community and this week has constantly reminded me of that. We have all pushed each other, learned from each other and fed off the amazing energy from this fantastic city. The standard of the competition was out of this world, but right now I’m just looking forward to enjoying a cocktail made by someone else!”

WORLD’S BIGGEST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL UNVEILS JACOB MARTIN AS WORLD’S BEST BARTENDER
Jacob Martin from Canada is crowned winner of the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2023 and celebrates with previous World Class winners.

Jacob Martin from Canada is crowned winner of the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2023 and celebrates with previous World Class winners.

As part of the competition, São Paulo has seen world-renowned bartenders including Monica Berg (from London’s Tayer + Elementary), Giacomo Giannotti (from the World’s Best Bar, Paradiso in Barcelona) and Ago Perrone (from London’s The Connaught Bar) descend on the city to judge the event and host special ‘World Class’ experiences in some of the city’s most iconic nightlife venues.

The competition also signals the beginning of the World Class Cocktail Festival, with amazing bar collaborations across the city including Bar Dos Arcos, Tan Tan and Guilhotina Bar.

Overall, The World Class Cocktail Festival extends to over 1,000 venues across Brazil, giving hundreds of thousands of cocktail lovers unique experiences from the likes of Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray No. TEN and Don Julio.

This year’s World Class also saw the inclusion of the Industry Forum, a chance to engage, educate and inspire the bartending community with seminars and panel discussions from World Class judges and guests – highlights included: “From Insta to IRL: trends and how to master them”, featuring World Class 2017 winner, Kaitlyn Stewart and Diageo Global Reserve Culture Manager, Giuliana Pe Benito and “Behind the Scenes of the World’s Best Bars” with bar owners including Monica Berg, Thiago Benares and Benjamin Padron.

Marissa Johnston, Global Head of Diageo World Class said: “Following last year’s World Class in Sydney was always going to be a big ask, but the World Class teams around the world, the Brazil team and, of course, our amazing 54 competitors have all stepped up to the plate and knocked it out the park. The level of energy on the ground here is incredible and after so many months of planning it’s been such a thrill to see it all come together like this. It’s so exciting to see a city come alive with great drinks and great experiences.

“Jacob has truly taken this competition to the next level – he excelled across the board and the feedback from the judges has been incredible. Jacob is such a deserving winner and I can’t wait to work with him over the next 12 months – he’ll go far.”

Since its launch in 2009, Diageo World Class has played a significant role in inspiring better drinking and transforming cocktail culture around the world by supporting over 450,000 bartenders worldwide through training and education.

For more information on World Class and to keep up to date with the latest drinks, trends and training, visit www.diageobaracademy.com/en_zz/world-class-/ and follow @WorldClass on Instagram.

WORLD’S BIGGEST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL UNVEILS JACOB MARTIN AS WORLD’S BEST BARTENDER
Jacob Martin takes on the Speed round during the World Class Global Bartender of the Year competition in São Paulo.

Jacob Martin takes on the Speed round during the World Class Global Bartender of the Year competition in São Paulo.

Contact:
Sarah Deller
[email protected]

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/77f78a75-50a6-4616-a676-43fa1257b526

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56d1fd1e-04e1-4884-b53a-414e4ae79329

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea082a38-ded1-4024-b1c3-6e62f04cf551

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8930946

World’s Biggest Cocktail Festival Unveils Jacob Martin as World’s Best Bartender

Highly anticipated competition brings colourful cocktail experiences and never-before-seen collaborations to the city of São Paulo

WORLD’S BIGGEST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL UNVEILS JACOB MARTIN AS WORLD’S BEST BARTENDER

Jacob Martin celebrates his win at the World Class Global Bartender of the Year awards.

SÃO PAULO, Brazil, Sept. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jacob Martin, from Canada, has been recognised by industry legends as the 2023 World Class Global Bartender of the Year. He shook off competition from over 10,000 other elite bartenders who attempted this year’s Everest of bartending.

The competition saw Jacob participate in a series of challenges over four days. From creating classic cocktails and elevating them to a TEN with bartender favourite, Tanqueray No. TEN, Jacob also dared to go one step beyond with Johnnie Walker Black Label’s versatility of flavours, as well as creating a Ketel One Garnished with Good cocktail which not only impressed the judges with its flavour creativity but delivered a positive impact in their local community in Canada.

Upon winning, Jacob said: “It’s an unbelievable honour to win World Class. Not just because it’s the pinnacle of the industry but also because of the giants I’ve had the privilege of competing with this week. Bartending is an amazing community and this week has constantly reminded me of that. We have all pushed each other, learned from each other and fed off the amazing energy from this fantastic city. The standard of the competition was out of this world, but right now I’m just looking forward to enjoying a cocktail made by someone else!”

WORLD’S BIGGEST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL UNVEILS JACOB MARTIN AS WORLD’S BEST BARTENDER
Jacob Martin from Canada is crowned winner of the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2023 and celebrates with previous World Class winners.

Jacob Martin from Canada is crowned winner of the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2023 and celebrates with previous World Class winners.

As part of the competition, São Paulo has seen world-renowned bartenders including Monica Berg (from London’s Tayer + Elementary), Giacomo Giannotti (from the World’s Best Bar, Paradiso in Barcelona) and Ago Perrone (from London’s The Connaught Bar) descend on the city to judge the event and host special ‘World Class’ experiences in some of the city’s most iconic nightlife venues.

The competition also signals the beginning of the World Class Cocktail Festival, with amazing bar collaborations across the city including Bar Dos Arcos, Tan Tan and Guilhotina Bar.

Overall, The World Class Cocktail Festival extends to over 1,000 venues across Brazil, giving hundreds of thousands of cocktail lovers unique experiences from the likes of Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray No. TEN and Don Julio.

This year’s World Class also saw the inclusion of the Industry Forum, a chance to engage, educate and inspire the bartending community with seminars and panel discussions from World Class judges and guests – highlights included: “From Insta to IRL: trends and how to master them”, featuring World Class 2017 winner, Kaitlyn Stewart and Diageo Global Reserve Culture Manager, Giuliana Pe Benito and “Behind the Scenes of the World’s Best Bars” with bar owners including Monica Berg, Thiago Benares and Benjamin Padron.

Marissa Johnston, Global Head of Diageo World Class said: “Following last year’s World Class in Sydney was always going to be a big ask, but the World Class teams around the world, the Brazil team and, of course, our amazing 54 competitors have all stepped up to the plate and knocked it out the park. The level of energy on the ground here is incredible and after so many months of planning it’s been such a thrill to see it all come together like this. It’s so exciting to see a city come alive with great drinks and great experiences.

“Jacob has truly taken this competition to the next level – he excelled across the board and the feedback from the judges has been incredible. Jacob is such a deserving winner and I can’t wait to work with him over the next 12 months – he’ll go far.”

Since its launch in 2009, Diageo World Class has played a significant role in inspiring better drinking and transforming cocktail culture around the world by supporting over 450,000 bartenders worldwide through training and education.

For more information on World Class and to keep up to date with the latest drinks, trends and training, visit www.diageobaracademy.com/en_zz/world-class-/ and follow @WorldClass on Instagram.

WORLD’S BIGGEST COCKTAIL FESTIVAL UNVEILS JACOB MARTIN AS WORLD’S BEST BARTENDER
Jacob Martin takes on the Speed round during the World Class Global Bartender of the Year competition in São Paulo.

Jacob Martin takes on the Speed round during the World Class Global Bartender of the Year competition in São Paulo.

Contact:
Sarah Deller
[email protected]

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/77f78a75-50a6-4616-a676-43fa1257b526

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56d1fd1e-04e1-4884-b53a-414e4ae79329

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea082a38-ded1-4024-b1c3-6e62f04cf551

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8930946

The Commonwealth of Dominica offers South African viable growth opportunities

Roseau, Sept. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The South African business landscape has become difficult with numerous economic and regulatory challenges that startups and business owners face, driving them to seek opportunities abroad. Many more South African businesspersons are exploring citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes. The Commonwealth of Dominica offers a Programme for South African businesspersons to grow and succeed.

South African entrepreneur Athi Rwexu’s journey from local startup founder to global success story highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in South Africa. While her mathematics application, Beta-SigmaX, aimed to make math accessible to children worldwide, Rwexu found it more promising to seek support and investment in the United Kingdom than in her home country.

This trend of South African startups seeking opportunities abroad due to unfavourable conditions has caught the attention of the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD).

Mofalefa Mohoto, the acting deputy director-general of DSBD, acknowledged that many startups, especially in the tech sector, were moving overseas because of issues such as funding limitations and regulatory hurdles.

South Africa’s tax policies and business regulations often hinder the growth of startups, pushing them to explore more conducive environments abroad.

The Southern African Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (Savca) reported a decrease in venture capital investment in South Africa in 2021, reflecting the challenges faced by startups seeking capital in the country.

One key issue is that South African financial institutions typically require a proven track record of returns before investing, a barrier that many startups cannot overcome. To address these challenges, DSBD has initiated a “start-up act movement” to tackle the regulatory issues constraining startups’ growth and create an environment conducive to their success.

The goal is to foster high-tech startups that can eventually become major players, similar to the success stories in Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs.

Despite the challenges, there is optimism within the South African startup ecosystem. Rwexu believes that the ongoing discussions on startup support in South Africa are promising, and there is hope for a brighter future in the sector. However, for businesspersons who are struggling in South Africa, there is another potential avenue to consider – citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes in the Caribbean.

Citizenship by Investment Programmes for business start-ups 

As South African entrepreneurs face hurdles in their home country, some are exploring alternative options to support their businesses and secure their future. CBI programmes, commonly offered by several Caribbean nations, present an appealing opportunity for South African small business owners seeking stability and growth. A notable destination that offers this CBI programme is the Commonwealth of Dominica.

The benefits of these Caribbean CBI programmes 

Foreign Direct Investments 

The Government of Dominica is actively promoting and facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country, with a strong emphasis on industries that generate employment, bring in foreign currency, and positively impact the local population.

To encourage businesses to set up in Dominica, the government has established various investment incentives through the Invest Dominica Authority (IDA). These policies include generous tax incentives, allowing duty-free importation of equipment and materials, exemptions from value-added tax on specific capital investments, as well as waivers on withholding tax for dividends, interest payments, and certain external payments and income.

Additionally, the IDA offers support to approved CBI projects, providing an attractive avenue for certain forms of foreign direct investment.

In 2021, the IDA introduced an Investment Promotion Strategy that targets four key sectors:

1. Organic agri-business.

2. Aquaculture and manufacturing.

3. Renewable energy.

4. Tourism.

These sectors are seen as critical for the country’s economic growth. Dominica is also actively exploring opportunities in knowledge services, including business processing operations. Beyond these priorities, the government maintains an open stance toward FDI and continually evaluates other sectors for investment potential.

Importantly, Dominica welcomes foreign investors with open arms and imposes no restrictions on foreign control. Foreign investors enjoy the same rights as local nationals and can own up to 100 per cent of their investment. This approach underscores Dominica’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for foreign businesses to thrive.

The IDA plays a crucial role in overseeing proposed investments seeking government incentives. Their evaluation ensures that each project aligns with national laws and serves Dominica’s best interests while delivering economic benefits. This review process is transparent and involves a series of steps that investors must follow to secure a business license.

Dominica transforming into a digital economy 

As part of the National Reset initiative, the government of Dominica has made a deliberate choice to allocate more budget resources to productive sectors. The aim is to encourage the emergence of new businesses and the growth of existing ones.

This strategy is geared towards generating additional employment, expanding the nation’s economy, and contributing to a resilient and sustainable development path for Dominica. Key areas of investment include agriculture, value-added manufacturing, the blue economy, tourism, renewable energy, export-oriented services, the digital economy, and commerce.

Dominica has made significant strides in transitioning towards a digital economy, both in the private and public sectors. Private enterprises have introduced online banking, digital bill payment platforms, and online shopping. Many businesses have fully embraced digital processes.

The government has played a pivotal role in driving this transformation by introducing new digital services for public use each year. To further support the development of the digital economy, the government plans to invest directly in the country’s young population.

Grants will be provided to support digital technology initiatives, empowering young people with skills, resources, and tools to excel in the digital era. The application process for these grants will begin in the first quarter of the fiscal year, and young individuals are encouraged to seize these opportunities.

One immediate benefit of the government’s investment in the digital economy is the creation of online job opportunities. To date, 181 Dominicans have received training, and 109 have been engaged in online jobs on the global stage. An additional 60 individuals are participating in a 12-week training programme. These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of its citizens and creating improved job prospects for them, aligning with the broader goals of national development.

The Government of Dominica supports businesses in the tourism sector 

The Ministry of Commerce, Enterprise, and Small Business Development in Dominica has a clear mission to foster the growth of resilient businesses and promote economic transformation. They aim to create an environment that is supportive of business development, capable of adapting to climate-related challenges, and facilitating recovery from adverse climate events.

To achieve these goals, the government has implemented measures to encourage the organised growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a significant role in the private sector and contribute substantially to employment.

The government initially allocated funds to support these initiatives, and it has additionally secured more funds to aid MSMEs in developing and restructuring their businesses, enabling them to navigate the current economic challenges effectively.

In response to these efforts, the Cabinet has approved significant changes to the Small Business Support Unit (SBSU) Small Business Enterprise Development Grant application process. Grant assistance amounts now vary. This flexible approach considers factors such as the readiness of entrepreneurs, the level of innovation, expansion plans, export readiness, and the hiring of employees beyond family members.

These changes reflect the government’s commitment to providing substantial support to small businesses and encouraging their growth and resilience in the face of economic challenges.

This Caribbean nation is not only a beautiful tropical paradise but also an inviting destination for entrepreneurs and investors looking to make a positive impact while enjoying the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Secretary of Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Commonwealth of Dominica
001 (767) 266 3919
[email protected]

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8930874

The Commonwealth of Dominica offers South African viable growth opportunities

Roseau, Sept. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The South African business landscape has become difficult with numerous economic and regulatory challenges that startups and business owners face, driving them to seek opportunities abroad. Many more South African businesspersons are exploring citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes. The Commonwealth of Dominica offers a Programme for South African businesspersons to grow and succeed.

South African entrepreneur Athi Rwexu’s journey from local startup founder to global success story highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in South Africa. While her mathematics application, Beta-SigmaX, aimed to make math accessible to children worldwide, Rwexu found it more promising to seek support and investment in the United Kingdom than in her home country.

This trend of South African startups seeking opportunities abroad due to unfavourable conditions has caught the attention of the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD).

Mofalefa Mohoto, the acting deputy director-general of DSBD, acknowledged that many startups, especially in the tech sector, were moving overseas because of issues such as funding limitations and regulatory hurdles.

South Africa’s tax policies and business regulations often hinder the growth of startups, pushing them to explore more conducive environments abroad.

The Southern African Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (Savca) reported a decrease in venture capital investment in South Africa in 2021, reflecting the challenges faced by startups seeking capital in the country.

One key issue is that South African financial institutions typically require a proven track record of returns before investing, a barrier that many startups cannot overcome. To address these challenges, DSBD has initiated a “start-up act movement” to tackle the regulatory issues constraining startups’ growth and create an environment conducive to their success.

The goal is to foster high-tech startups that can eventually become major players, similar to the success stories in Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs.

Despite the challenges, there is optimism within the South African startup ecosystem. Rwexu believes that the ongoing discussions on startup support in South Africa are promising, and there is hope for a brighter future in the sector. However, for businesspersons who are struggling in South Africa, there is another potential avenue to consider – citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes in the Caribbean.

Citizenship by Investment Programmes for business start-ups 

As South African entrepreneurs face hurdles in their home country, some are exploring alternative options to support their businesses and secure their future. CBI programmes, commonly offered by several Caribbean nations, present an appealing opportunity for South African small business owners seeking stability and growth. A notable destination that offers this CBI programme is the Commonwealth of Dominica.

The benefits of these Caribbean CBI programmes 

Foreign Direct Investments 

The Government of Dominica is actively promoting and facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country, with a strong emphasis on industries that generate employment, bring in foreign currency, and positively impact the local population.

To encourage businesses to set up in Dominica, the government has established various investment incentives through the Invest Dominica Authority (IDA). These policies include generous tax incentives, allowing duty-free importation of equipment and materials, exemptions from value-added tax on specific capital investments, as well as waivers on withholding tax for dividends, interest payments, and certain external payments and income.

Additionally, the IDA offers support to approved CBI projects, providing an attractive avenue for certain forms of foreign direct investment.

In 2021, the IDA introduced an Investment Promotion Strategy that targets four key sectors:

1. Organic agri-business.

2. Aquaculture and manufacturing.

3. Renewable energy.

4. Tourism.

These sectors are seen as critical for the country’s economic growth. Dominica is also actively exploring opportunities in knowledge services, including business processing operations. Beyond these priorities, the government maintains an open stance toward FDI and continually evaluates other sectors for investment potential.

Importantly, Dominica welcomes foreign investors with open arms and imposes no restrictions on foreign control. Foreign investors enjoy the same rights as local nationals and can own up to 100 per cent of their investment. This approach underscores Dominica’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for foreign businesses to thrive.

The IDA plays a crucial role in overseeing proposed investments seeking government incentives. Their evaluation ensures that each project aligns with national laws and serves Dominica’s best interests while delivering economic benefits. This review process is transparent and involves a series of steps that investors must follow to secure a business license.

Dominica transforming into a digital economy 

As part of the National Reset initiative, the government of Dominica has made a deliberate choice to allocate more budget resources to productive sectors. The aim is to encourage the emergence of new businesses and the growth of existing ones.

This strategy is geared towards generating additional employment, expanding the nation’s economy, and contributing to a resilient and sustainable development path for Dominica. Key areas of investment include agriculture, value-added manufacturing, the blue economy, tourism, renewable energy, export-oriented services, the digital economy, and commerce.

Dominica has made significant strides in transitioning towards a digital economy, both in the private and public sectors. Private enterprises have introduced online banking, digital bill payment platforms, and online shopping. Many businesses have fully embraced digital processes.

The government has played a pivotal role in driving this transformation by introducing new digital services for public use each year. To further support the development of the digital economy, the government plans to invest directly in the country’s young population.

Grants will be provided to support digital technology initiatives, empowering young people with skills, resources, and tools to excel in the digital era. The application process for these grants will begin in the first quarter of the fiscal year, and young individuals are encouraged to seize these opportunities.

One immediate benefit of the government’s investment in the digital economy is the creation of online job opportunities. To date, 181 Dominicans have received training, and 109 have been engaged in online jobs on the global stage. An additional 60 individuals are participating in a 12-week training programme. These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of its citizens and creating improved job prospects for them, aligning with the broader goals of national development.

The Government of Dominica supports businesses in the tourism sector 

The Ministry of Commerce, Enterprise, and Small Business Development in Dominica has a clear mission to foster the growth of resilient businesses and promote economic transformation. They aim to create an environment that is supportive of business development, capable of adapting to climate-related challenges, and facilitating recovery from adverse climate events.

To achieve these goals, the government has implemented measures to encourage the organised growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a significant role in the private sector and contribute substantially to employment.

The government initially allocated funds to support these initiatives, and it has additionally secured more funds to aid MSMEs in developing and restructuring their businesses, enabling them to navigate the current economic challenges effectively.

In response to these efforts, the Cabinet has approved significant changes to the Small Business Support Unit (SBSU) Small Business Enterprise Development Grant application process. Grant assistance amounts now vary. This flexible approach considers factors such as the readiness of entrepreneurs, the level of innovation, expansion plans, export readiness, and the hiring of employees beyond family members.

These changes reflect the government’s commitment to providing substantial support to small businesses and encouraging their growth and resilience in the face of economic challenges.

This Caribbean nation is not only a beautiful tropical paradise but also an inviting destination for entrepreneurs and investors looking to make a positive impact while enjoying the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Secretary of Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Commonwealth of Dominica
001 (767) 266 3919
[email protected]

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8930874

William Ruto, President of Kenya, joins GCA Advisory Board

Nairobi, Kenya, Sept. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Chair of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change has accepted an invitation from Ban Ki-moon, 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) and CEO Professor Patrick Verkooijen, to join the GCA Advisory Board.

During a high-level official meeting which took place today at the State House in Nairobi , Professor Patrick Verkooijen and President Ruto  discussed a roadmap to guide the mobilisation of the financial commitments for adaptation which were made at the Africa Climate Summit hosted by the President in Nairobi earlier this month.

The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) Country Compacts, announced during the Leaders’ Dialogue on Adaptation, will drive the doubling down and scaling of adaptation action across the world’s most climate-vulnerable continent. The country-led investment roadmaps, initiated by the Government of Kenya, outline adaptation investment priorities, financing needs, and finance mobilization strategies for implementing climate adaptation measures connected to the priorities outlined in National Adaptation Plans and other national strategies.

Recent research from GCA showed Africa may need a nearly tenfold increase in climate adaptation funding to $100 billion a year if it is to buttress its infrastructure, improve climate early warning systems and shield its agriculture from climate change.

On accepting the invitation, William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya said:
“African governments, businesses and communities have paid heavily for climate-related destruction and disruption, and have already invested heavily in adaptation action, but we need stronger international partnerships to support adaptation more than ever before. The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program , the world’s largest adaptation program resulting from collaboration between GCA, the University of Nairobi, African Development Bank and the African Union Commission, is the best vehicle we have to mobilize additional funding. I  look forward to working closely with Professor Verkooijen and the Board to build on the US$6.7 billion that the AAAP has already invested in resilient climate projects in 27 countries since 2021. By working together I am confident that we will make great progress in ensuring that international commitments  to deliver highly strategic and comprehensive adaptation responses are fulfilled.”

Professor Patrick Verkooijen, CEO of GCA and Distinguished Chair of the Wangari Maathai Institute said:
“It is only by adapting to climate change that Africa can reach its potential. Yet promised climate finance—which is necessary to underpin wider development goals—remains critically short of what is needed. President Ruto has played a crucial role in the implementation of the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program across the continent and I commend his leadership in hosting the Africa Climate Summit. I look forward to our continued collaboration to ensure the Summit outcomes are delivered for Africa’s march to sustainable economic transformation and green growth.”

During the Africa Climate Summit, President Ruto announced Kenya will host regional headquarters for GCA in Nairobi:
“I have had opportunity to interact with the Global Center for Adaptation, an international organisation based in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, whose constitution is an appealing emblem of our aspirations, from the aspirational design of its  global headquarters and futuristic regional headquarters in Nairobi, comprising green walls and roof as well as rain gardens, to the collaborative culture of its staff. Unsurprisingly, the Center is intended to inspire the world to thrive with nature instead of pursuing the dangerous course of seeking to thrive at nature’s expense.”

It is expected the new Africa headquarters will open in Nairobi in January 2025.

Notes to Editors

About the Global Center on Adaptation
The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) is an international organization that works as a solutions broker to accelerate action and support for adaptation solutions, from the international to the local, in partnership with the public and private sectors. Founded in 2018, GCA operates from the largest floating office in the world, located in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. GCA has a worldwide network of regional offices in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire; Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Beijing, China.

About the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program
The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) is a joint initiative of the African Development Bank and the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA). It aims to mobilize $25 billion, over five years, to accelerate and scale climate adaptation action across the continent. This ambition is delivered through the AAAP Upstream Financing Facility managed by the Global Center on Adaptation and the African Development Bank’s climate action window in the ADF replenishment. AAAP works across four pillars to achieve transformational results: Climate-Smart Digital Technologies for Agriculture and Food Security; African Infrastructure Resilience Accelerator; Youth Empowerment for Entrepreneurship and Job Creation in Climate Adaptation and Resilience and Innovative Financial Initiatives for Africa.

Attachment

Alexandra Gee
Global Center on Adaptation
[email protected]

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8930853

Novo estudo global revela que pessoas que sentem dor estão se sentindo cada vez mais socialmente excluídas

  • Última edição do Índice de Dor Haleon revela que metade (49%) das pessoas com dor se sentem estigmatizadas[1][2]
  • 42% se sentem regularmente solitários devido à dor, e um terço sente solidão séria (com base na escala de solidão da UCLA)[3]
  • 32% das pessoas que vivem com dor temem ser julgadas
  • Mulheres, pessoas de cor e a comunidade LGBQ+ são as mais afetadas
  • A Geração Z é mais propensa a não se sentir ouvida do que os Baby Boomers

LONDRES, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Um novo estudo com 18.097 pessoas em 18 países revelou que a sociedade se tornou menos tolerante com as pessoas que sofrem mesmo diante do fato que os efeitos da COVID-19 aumentaram a conscientização sobre a saúde global.

A quinta edição do Índice de Dor Haleon (HPI)[1], conduzido pela empresa de saúde do consumidor Haleon, sugere que as atitudes em relação à dor na sociedade pós-pandemia agora são mais de crítica e menos tolerantes, com metade (49%) das pessoas com dor se sentindo estigmatizadas e um terço (32%) temendo ser julgada por ter dor.

O índice global analisa o impacto real que a dor tem na vida das pessoas há quase uma década. O estudo deste ano constatou que, desde a sua primeira edição em 2014, o impacto social e emocional da dor aumentou quase 25%, com o estigma e o isolamento social decorrentes da dor cotidiana aumentando em todo o mundo. 42% das pessoas entrevistadas disseram que se sentem solitários quando têm dor. A solidão séria aumentou em todo o mundo, com relato de 38% das pessoas na China continental, 33% na Austrália e 32% no Reino Unido. Isso coincide com os alertas sobre os impactos da solidão e do isolamento social na saúde pública emitidos pela Organização Mundial de Saúde [4] e a Epidemia de Solidão [5] apontada no primeiro semestre de 2023.

A Dra. Linda Papadopoulos, Psicóloga e Autora, comentou: “A dor cotidiana é um problema de saúde que pode ser facilmente descartada ou banalizada. Muitas pessoas não percebem isso pode ser muito pior do que os próprios sintomas. O resultado da solidão e do impacto na saúde mental causado pela falta de empatia e por ser tratado de forma diferente só piora. Como sociedade, precisamos aumentar a empatia e a compreensão em um mundo que continua cada vez mais a ignorar essas questões.”

O HPI revelou que as pessoas que já passam por preconceito, discriminação e exclusão na sociedade são as mais afetadas por essa visão quanto a dor.

  • 58% das mulheres disseram que sua dor foi tratada de forma diferente, desacreditada ou discriminada em comparação com 49% dos homens. Os índices mais altos foram encontrados entre as mulheres da Índia (74%), Reino da Arábia Saudita (KSA) (74%), Brasil (74%) e China continental (61%).
  • 59% das pessoas de cor disseram que sua dor foi tratada de forma diferente, desacreditada ou discriminada em comparação com 48% das pessoas brancas. Os índices mais altos foram encontrados no Brasil (71%), Polônia (64%), EUA (64%), e Reino Unido (60%).
  • 44% das pessoas LGBQ+ temem as suposições sobre elas e sua dor, em comparação com 32% dos heterossexuais. Os índices mais altos foram encontrados na Índia (74%), EUA (74%), Canadá (74%) e Austrália (48%).

O estudo também revelou uma divisão geracional acentuada na forma como as pessoas sentem dor, sugerindo que os pacientes mais jovens têm mais dificuldades para falar sobre a dor conhecida e buscar tratamento:

  • 70% das pessoas da Geração Z disseram que sua dor foi tratada de forma diferente, desacreditada ou discriminada em comparação com 40% dos Baby Boomers. Os índices mais altos foram encontrados na Índia (80%), EUA (79%) e Reino Unido (74%).
  • 45% das pessoas da Geração Z as disseram que falar sobre a dor é um tabu em comparação com 35% dos Baby Boomers.

Embora a geração mais velha ache mais fácil falar sobre a dor e acessar tratamento, eles são os mais marginalizados quando se trata de acessar informações relacionadas à saúde online. 45% das pessoas de 75 a 84 anos disseram ter dificuldade ao acesso online sobre o assunto por não terem confiança em navegar na internet, em comparação com 33% no geral.

Os entrevistados concordaram com a necessidade de uma visão mais personalizada e compassiva da dor. Mais de dois terços (68%) das pessoas disseram que mais empatia para lidar com o preconceito e a exclusão faria uma grande diferença na sua dor. Enquanto isso, 69% disseram que gostariam que os médicos e 62% gostariam que os farmacêuticos fossem mais bem treinados sobre a sensação da dor em diferentes pacientes.

Lisa Jennings, Diretora da Categoria Global de Remédios de Venda Livre da Haleon, disse: “Embora a dor seja uma experiência humana universal, resultando em solidão e estigma para muitos, seu impacto varia consideravelmente entre os grupos sociais, com os mais marginalizados entre os mais afetados. O nosso objetivo é eliminar as barreiras para alcançar uma melhor saúde cotidiana para todos – independentemente da idade, raça, etnia, gênero, orientação sexual, deficiência e outros fatores. O HPI mostra que podemos diminuir o impacto social e emocional da dor mudando as percepções e a conversa sobre o controle da dor. É por isso que estamos agindo por meio de vários programas, como nossa iniciativa #ListenToPain, que está sendo lançada para profissionais de saúde em todo o mundo.”

O programa # ListenToPainda Haleon apoia os profissionais de saúde para que possam melhorar a comunicação com os seus pacientes e a ter uma discussão focada na dor de cada pessoa. #ListentoPain inclui cinco perfis que descrevem as pessoas com diferentes atitudes e comportamentos em relação ao tratamento da dor que ajudam os profissionais de saúde a personalizar sua abordagem com seus pacientes. Com a continuidade dos cuidados, o verdadeiro entendimento de como a dor pode mudar ao longo do tempo, resultando em estratégias de gestão da dor mais compreensíveis e mais eficazes a longo prazo.

Contato com a Mídia

Para mais informação sobre o HPI ou solicitar uma entrevista, contate:

[email protected]

[email protected]

Para informação sobre a Haleon, contate:

[email protected]

Notas aos Editores

Sobre o estudo Haleon Pain Index (Índice de Dor da Haleon)

O Haleon Pain Index (HPI) é um estudo social longitudinal exclusivo, globalmente representativo, conduzido pela Edelman Data x Intelligence (DXI). O estudo foi projetado para dar voz às pessoas que sentem dor e avaliar o estado evolutivo da dor. O estudo capta o impacto da sensação da dor na vida cotidiana dos indivíduos, sua saúde, suas sensações, emoções, motivações e comportamentos, com foco na experiência humana. Na sua quinta edição, o estudo avalia as barreiras de inclusão na saúde para o tratamento eficaz da dor. As percepções de mais de 18.000 entrevistados em 18 países foram obtidas na quinta edição.

Mercados rastreados no HPI 5: Austrália, Brasil, Canadá, China, Colômbia, França, Alemanha, Índia, Itália, KSA, Malásia, México, Polônia, África do Sul, Espanha, Suécia, Reino Unido, EUA.

As faixas etárias são divididas em diferentes gerações:

  • Geração Z: pessoas de 18 a 26 anos de idade
  • Milênios: pessoas de 27 a 42 anos de idade
  • Geração X: pessoas de 43 a 58 anos de idade
  • Baby Boomers 1*: pessoas de 59 a 66 anos de idade
  • Baby Boomers 2*: pessoas de 67 a 77 anos de idade
  • Geração Silenciosa: pessoas de 78 a 84 anos de idade

1*Pela primeira vez, o Haleon Pain Index (HPI) agora está obtendo a voz de especialistas, clínicos gerais, farmacêuticos e enfermeiros, em 4 mercados principais: Austrália, Alemanha, KSA e EUA. Nesta primeira edição, reunimos informações de mais de 600 especialistas (150 por mercado*) por meio de uma pesquisa online personalizada de 15 minutos, explorando as opiniões sobre a dor, seus desafios como profissionais de saúde e o papel que eles podem desempenhar na condução de mudanças positivas.

2*Nos EUA, nossas entrevistas incluíram um grupo de médicos e enfermeiros; na Austrália e na Arábia Saudita, um grupo de médicos e farmacêuticos, e na Alemanha, um grupo de farmacêuticos e assistentes de farmacêuticos.

Sobre a Listen To Pain

#ListenToPain é uma iniciativa global da Haleon que viabiliza que os profissionais de saúde maximizem seu tempo com os pacientes e os ajudem a entender melhor a sensação de dor de um paciente — e forneçam ao paciente um plano de tratamento adequado. Encontrada na Haleon Health Partner, uma plataforma digital dedicada para profissionais de saúde, a # ListenToPain inclui uma série de ferramentas práticas para aprimorar as interações, avaliações e resultados. Essas ferramentas e recursos para os farmacêuticos os ajudarão a entender melhor a dor dos seus pacientes e a conversar sobre o controle da dor.

Para mais informação e recursos completos de #ListentoPain visite www.haleonhealthpartner.com.

Sobre A Haleon
A Haleon (LSE/NYSE: HLN) é líder global em saúde do consumidor que tem por objetivo aprimorar a saúde cotidiana de forma mais humana. O portfólio de produtos da Haleon abrange cinco categorias principais: Saúde Oral, Alívio da Dor, Saúde Respiratória, Saúde Digestiva e Outras, e Vitaminas, Minerais e Suplementos (VMS). Suas marcas de longa data – como Advil, Sensodyne, Panadol, Voltaren, Theraflu, Otrivin, Polident, parodontax e Centrum – são desenvolvidas com base na ciência confiável, inovação e profundo entendimento humano.
Para mais informação, visite www.haleon.com.

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1 Haleon. Pain Index. 2023. Data on file.
2 The Haleon Pain Index is formerly known as the Global Pain Index.
3 Russell, D, et al.,1978. Developing a measure of loneliness. Journal of Personality Assessment, 42, 290-294. Available: https://fetzer.org/sites/default/files/images/stories/pdf/selfmeasures/Self_Measures_for_Loneliness_and_Interpersonal_Problems_UCLA_LONELINESS.pdf. [2023, September 18].
4 World Health Organization (WHO). N.d. Social Isolation and Loneliness. Available: https://www.who.int/teams/social-determinants-of-health/demographic-change-and-healthy-ageing/social-isolation-and-loneliness [2023, September 18].
5 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2023. Health Risks of Social Isolation and Loneliness. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/emotional-wellbeing/social-connectedness/loneliness.htm#:~:text=Social%20isolation%20and%20loneliness%20have,linked%20to%20increased%20risk%20for%3A&text=Heart%20disease%20and%20stroke.,Type%202%20diabetes. [2023, September 18].

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