At a luncheon gala in April, the Manitoba Chapter of the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) was pleased to recognize Jason Syvixay of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ as the 2014 Manitoba Communicator of the Year (MCOY).
CPRS Manitoba developed the MCOY award in 2008 to honour individuals and organizations who effectively employ public relations strategies to achieve organizational goals.
“The annual award not only celebrates the best in our profession, but the ceremony also attracts new audiences to CPRS Manitoba every year,” said CPRS Manitoba board president Jason Permanand.
Syvixay was selected by an independent jury for his efforts. Between 2011 and 2013, he helped revitalize the BIZ’s Change for the Better program by spearheading the CEO Sleepout event, a fundraising campaign that has raised more than $400,000 for homeless employment programs. He also negotiated with Canada Post to turn a Canada Day Living Flag photo-op into an official stamp. Syvixay also increased the BIZ’s earned media coverage by 342 per cent.
“I am very proud to serve our downtown and am humbled by this incredible honour,” Syvixay said. “The MCOY award serves as a powerful reminder that our city and groups like CPRS Manitoba are invested in harnessing the creative energy and potential of Winnipeggers, especially youth.”
A diverse crowd that included city councillors, students, community activists and communicators – attended the award ceremony at the Hotel Fort Garry to take in Syvixay’s presentation, a plated lunch service and networking.
Jason Syvixay (left) accepts the award from chapter President Jason Permanand (right).