Author Archives: Concordia

Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex in conversation with young recipients of The Diana Award at the 2024 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, will participate in the 14th Concordia Annual Summit in New York, where The Diana Award will take center stage in a conversation focused on youth empowerment and mental health. The Duke will join Dr. Tessy Ojo, CBE, CEO of The Diana Award, alongside two recipients of The Legacy Award, who will share their insights on overcoming challenges and creating positive change.

This timely discussion will address the mental health struggles affecting today's youth, while also emphasizing the importance of resilience, leadership, and community engagement. By focusing on these critical issues, The Diana Award and Concordia aim to inspire the next generation of young leaders to take action within their communities and beyond, driving lasting, intergenerational impact.

The Diana Award CEO Dr. Tessy Ojo, CBE commented: "The Diana Award is delighted to be leading this conversation with young people and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex as we mark our 25th Anniversary year. We know young people face many challenges today but their compassion, determination and agency to make positive change now and in the future is immense. The Concordia Annual Summit gives us the platform to share our insights and lead positive change."

The session, made possible by Concordia Lead Sponsor ServiceNow, is a continuation of The Diana Award's commitment to empowering young people who embody the spirit of Diana, Princess of Wales' legacy through their dedication to social change.

Concordia Co-Founder, President & CEO Matthew Swift expressed: "Concordia is proud to partner with Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex and The Diana Award to provide a platform that encourages greater partnership in addressing the mental health needs of our future leaders. It is our shared mission to strive for meaningful, cross-sector solutions that ensure the next generation is empowered to tackle the pressing issues of our time."

The Diana Award's unwavering commitment to empowering young people is rooted in Princess Diana's belief that, with the right support, young people have the power to change the world. As a past speaker at the Concordia Annual Summit, Dr. Ojo highlighted the charity's ongoing strategic focus on areas where young people face the most challenges today, particularly in mental health, social and economic barriers, and youth leadership, emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive representation and resilience-building among youth in an increasingly disconnected world.

Concordia is the leading public-private sector convener, with the Annual Summit the largest and most inclusive nonpartisan gathering alongside the United Nations General Assembly. The Annual Summit brings together today's preeminent global C-suite executives, heads of state, government officials, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest global challenges of our time and identify opportunities for market-led solutions. This year's agenda will cover pivotal topics shaping our world, from the transformative impact of AI on industries to the landscape of international business, geopolitics, migration, healthcare, education, and more.

Top speakers at the 2024 Concordia Annual Summit include U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., Poul Weihrauch, CEO Mars Inc., Adm. Christopher Grady, Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff of U.S. Department of Defense, The Hon. Chrissy Houlahan, Representative, U.S. House of Representatives (PA-06), Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, President, Rockefeller Foundation, Barbara Humpton, President and CEO, Siemens USA, Dan Levy, Vice President, Amazon Web Services, and The Hon. Mike Waltz, Representative, U.S. House of Representatives (FL-06), and many others.

Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2024-concordia-annual-summit/

For press inquiries, contact Emanuel Echeverri at eecheverri@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/.

Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, will participate in the 14th Concordia Annual Summit in New York, where The Diana Award will take center stage in a conversation focused on youth empowerment and mental health. The Duke will join Dr. Tessy Ojo, CBE, CEO of The Diana Award, alongside two recipients of The Legacy Award, who will share their insights on overcoming challenges and creating positive change.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Mr. Darren Walker, Dr. Albert Bourla, and Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to be awarded Concordia Leadership Award at the 2024 Annual Summit this September

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Concordia Leadership Council is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Leadership Award: Mr. Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, for the nonprofit sector; Dr. Albert Bourla, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer, for the private sector; and H.E. Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, for the public sector. The three recipients will be formally recognized for their exceptional leadership at the 2024 Concordia Annual Summit (September 23-25, Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel), the leading public-private sector forum alongside the UN General Assembly.

Pass and registration information can be found here - https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2024-concordia-annual-summit/

The Concordia Leadership Award recognizes global leaders across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors who have made pioneering contributions and inspired others through their ability to turn vision into impact. Voted on by the Concordia Leadership Award Committee, recipients possess a commitment to catalyzing positive social and economic change while promoting effective public-private collaboration to create a more sustainable future. Past recipients include: Laura Bush, Former First Lady of the U.S.; Niels B. Christiansen, CEO of the LEGO Group; Ginni Rometty, Former Chairman, President & CEO of IBM; Mónica Ramírez, Founder & President of Justice for Migrant Women; Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart; Christiana Figueres, Founder of Global Optimism; António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations; Secretary Hillary R. Clinton, Former Secretary of State for the U.S.; and, Nobel Peace Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, Founder of Grameen Bank and Co-Founder and Chairman of Yunus Social Business.

Anita McBride, Chair of Concordia's Leadership Award Committee, Leadership Council Member, and Former Assistant to President George W. Bush & Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, expressed her admiration: "This year's selection process was incredibly thorough, and I am deeply honored to announce the Leadership Award recipients for 2024. From revolutionizing global health through rapid vaccine development to fortifying international security in the face of unprecedented challenges and transforming philanthropy to tackle systemic inequality, these distinguished individuals exemplify the transformative power of visionary leadership. We all have so much to learn from their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place."

Anita McBride, Chair of Concordia's Leadership Award Committee, Leadership Council Member, Author, and Former Assistant to President George W. Bush & Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, expressed her admiration: "The process for evaluating nominees and making a selection for our annual Leadership Award is always a robust and thorough exercise. I am delighted to Chair this committee for Concordia and deeply honored to announce the Leadership Award recipients for 2024. From revolutionizing global health through rapid vaccine development, to fortifying vital international security partnerships in the face of unprecedented challenges, and transforming philanthropy to tackle disparities and raise standards of living for more people, these distinguished individuals exemplify the transformative power of visionary leadership. We all have so much to learn from their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to making the world a healthier, safer and better place for everyone."

Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis, Co-Founders of Concordia, shared their thoughts: "We are immensely proud to honor this year's Leadership Award recipients for their unparalleled contributions in their respective fields. Dr. Bourla's groundbreaking work in global health, Secretary General Stoltenberg's steadfast dedication to international security, and Mr. Walker's transformative impact on philanthropy serve as powerful examples of the extraordinary difference visionary leadership can make. Their achievements inspire us all and underscore Concordia's mission to recognize global leaders who turn vision into impact."

For the nonprofit sector, Concordia is proud to honor Mr. Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, for his remarkable contributions to advancing social justice and reducing inequality. Leading one of the world's most influential philanthropic organizations, Mr. Walker has championed initiatives that address systemic inequality and support innovative approaches to social change. His pivotal role in resolving the historic bankruptcy of Detroit, the issuance of $1 billion in social bonds in U.S. capital markets, and efforts to strengthen and stabilize nonprofit organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic have set new standards for impactful giving. His dedication to civil rights, economic empowerment, education, and the arts has transformed countless lives. The Leadership Award is pleased to celebrate Mr. Walker's visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting those most in need during times of crisis.

For the private sector, Concordia has selected Dr. Albert Bourla, Chairman & CEO of Pfizer, for his extraordinary leadership and impact in the pharmaceutical industry. Dr. Bourla's mobilization of resources and the accelerated vaccine development in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have transformed Pfizer into a science-driven powerhouse, significantly increasing its research and development investments. Additionally, under his leadership, Pfizer has deepened its commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles, maximizing its impact across various therapeutic areas. Dr. Bourla's unwavering dedication to improving human health has not only revolutionized Pfizer but also set a new standard for the pharmaceutical industry. The Leadership Award acknowledges the profound impact he has had on countless lives worldwide.

For the public sector, Concordia is proud to recognize H.E. Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, for his unwavering commitment to global security and cooperation. During his expanded tenure, the Secretary General has demonstrated decisive action in the face of evolving security challenges, leading to the reinforcement of collective defense with a greater focus on innovation and strengthening partnerships. His steadfast determination to uphold international support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression, alongside his efforts to foster greater transatlantic unity, underscores his dedication to upholding international peace and stability. As his term draws to a close, the Leadership Council honors Secretary General Stoltenberg's remarkable impact as a global leader, celebrating the courage, purpose, and diplomacy that continue to inspire and guide us toward a safer and more secure world.

Concordia is the leading public-private sector convener, with the Annual Summit the largest and most inclusive nonpartisan gathering alongside UNGA. The Annual Summit brings together today's preeminent global C-suite executives, heads of state, government officials, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest global challenges of our time and identify opportunities for market-led solutions. This year's agenda will cover pivotal topics shaping our world, from the transformative impact of AI on industries to the landscape of international business, geopolitics, migration, healthcare, education, and more.

Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/leadershipaward/

For press inquiries, contact Emanuel Echeverri at eecheverri@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/.

The Concordia Leadership Council is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Leadership Award: Mr. Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, for the nonprofit sector; Dr. Albert Bourla, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer, for the private sector; and H.E. Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, for the public sector. The three recipients will be formally recognized for their exceptional leadership at the 2024 Concordia Annual Summit.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali Announces Expansion of Protected Areas in Guyana at 2024 Concordia Amazonas Summit

GEORGETOWN, Guyana /ScoopCloud/ -- In a landmark announcement during the 2024 Concordia Amazonas Summit last week, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali revealed plans to double Guyana's protected areas, currently covering around 8.4% of the country's landmass, within 18 months. The announcement was made during the opening dinner of the Summit at the president's home, featuring President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali along with H.E. Iván Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia and Chair of the Concordia Amazonas Initiative, Matthew Swift, Co-Founder, President & CEO of Concordia, and Vickram Bharrat, Minister of Natural Resources, Guyana.

President Ali reinforced the need to carry conversations on protecting biodiversity globally, highlighting Guyana's success in creating a national biodiversity strategy and its global scalability. "Guyana is committed to investing in clean energy and stimulating low-carbon growth as well as protecting our rainforest against climate change and biodiversity loss and aligning with global climate goals. It's a short timeframe but in the interest of the planet, we'll develop a model and demonstrate it can work at scale."

The initiative forms a crucial part of the second phase of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The plan will prioritize the country's low deforestation rates, drive innovative climate finance mechanisms, and create a new global Oscar for climate and environment to elevate worldwide awareness and focus on sustainable development. The strategy includes monetizing carbon credits to fund sustainable livelihoods in indigenous communities, exemplifying Guyana's leadership in climate action. Currently, the country has a USD 750 million contract under the carbon credit sales, with 15% of these funds going directly to indigenous villages for sustainable livelihood activities.

"Guyana exemplifies how nations can harness industry to uplift communities from poverty while championing conservation efforts in a region known for its minimal deforestation. President Ali's proactive stance underscores the imperative for inclusive, sustainable development and his vision to lead a series of countries on a large-scale biodiversity agenda, supported by market-driven mechanisms, will ensure a robust protection strategy in the short, medium, and long term. We are committed to advocating for this agenda, and making sure we are integrating the private sector into these dialogues to safeguard our national heritage in global forums such as the G20, the United Nations General Assembly, COP 30, and Concordia, ensuring it becomes a cornerstone of international dialogue," remarked President Duque.

Key areas of the LCDS 2030 include (i) investing in clean energy and stimulating low-carbon growth, (ii) protecting against climate change and biodiversity loss, and (iii) aligning with global climate goals. Within the next 18 months the government will double the total protected areas to 16%, aiming to achieve 30% by 2030.

Matthew Swift, Concordia's Co-Founder, President & CEO, stated: "President Ali's announcement marks a pivotal moment in leadership and global collaboration. With this initiative the President is setting a new precedent in climate action by developing scalable models for environmental protection at a global scale. At Concordia, we are honored to facilitate discussions that catalyze such transformative initiatives. Witnessing these commitments unfold at our Summit underscores the power of collective action in advancing biodiversity conservation and sustainable development."

In addition to President Ali's announcement, Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Conservation International, reinforcing Guyana's commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Concordia, as the first international group to visit the research center, supports these initiatives through its Concordia Amazonas Initiative and environmental governance.

Nicola Green, Co-Founder & Chair of Trustees at Sophia Point, said: "We at Sophia Point are delighted to partner with Conservation International Guyana to collaborate on programs to conserve and better understand Guyana's natural resources and unique biodiversity. Our partnership will work towards achieving our mission of transforming conservation and education in Guyana and championing the Indigenous communities that have been guardians of the rainforest for generations. We were honored to have H.E Iván Duque, former President of the Republic of Columbia, and Patricia Zurika, of Conservation International, witness the signing."

From Conservation International Guyana, vice president Curtis Bernard highlighted "Guyana's approach to development with nature is novel and an emerging global touchstone in 'development done right.' We at Conservation International Guyana gladly welcome our partnership with Sophia Point and see it as an important step towards supporting the achievements of Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy. The LCDS requires consistent and collective action across local, national and international spaces, and Sophia Point is a significant addition in efforts to better understand and sustainably utilize Guyana's rich biodiversity."

Jason Frayser, Commissioner of the Protected Areas Commission, commented on the events: "Sophia Point is a beacon of what can be achieved when conservation and scientific inquiry are prioritized. We hope that many other places will follow this exemplary model."

More information on the 2024 Concordia Amazonas Summit: https://www.concordia.net/amazonas/2024-amazonas-summit/

Launched in 2022, the Concordia Amazonas Initiative holds high-level strategic convenings in the Amazon rainforest to identify and implement scalable and sustainable market-led, nature-based solutions that shape the future of the region. The 2025 Concordia Amazonas Summit will take place in Brazil next year in July, bringing together leaders from the public, private, and NGO sectors, along with investors and indigenous communities. More information on the 2025 Concordia Amazonas Summit: https://www.concordia.net/amazonas/2025-amazonas-summit/

To learn more, please email partnerships@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/

In a landmark announcement during the 2024 Concordia Amazonas Summit last week, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali revealed plans to double Guyana's protected areas, currently covering around 8.4% of the country's landmass, within 18 months. The announcement was made during the opening dinner of the Summit at the president's home, featuring President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali along with H.E. Iván Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia and Chair of the Concordia Amazonas Initiative, Matthew Swift, Co-Founder, President & CEO of Concordia, and Vickram Bharrat, Minister of Natural Resources, Guyana.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Concordia Announces Strategic Partnership with the Fund for Nature Centered Around the the Concordia Amazonas Initiative

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- This morning at its 2024 Americas Summit, Concordia - the leading public-private sector convener - announced a partnership with CrossBoundary Group's Fund for Nature (FFN). The announcement was made publicly during the session Expanding Access to Capital for Nature-Based Carbon Projects featuring H.E. Iván Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia and Chair of the Concordia Amazonas Initiative, Kate Wharton, Managing Director and Head of Natural Capital at CrossBoundary, and Matthew Swift, Co-Founder, President & CEO of Concordia.

"This partnership marks a significant milestone in the development of the Concordia Amazonas Initiative, and will see Concordia expand financing to nature-based projects focused on the Amazon rainforest," commented President Duque. "Drawing on Concordia's power of convening and the Fund for Nature's climate investment expertise and impact-driven strategy, we look forward to ensuring the proactive deployment of solutions critical to protecting biodiversity."

Launched in 2022, the Concordia Amazonas Initiative holds high-level strategic convenings in the Amazon rainforest to identify and implement scalable and sustainable market-led, nature-based solutions that shape the future of the region. The 2024 Concordia Amazonas Summit will take place in Guyana on July 9-13, bringing together leaders from the public, private, and NGO sectors, along with investors and indigenous communities.

CrossBoundary Group is a Global Patron Member of Concordia and the Fund for Nature is their investment vehicle that provides up-front finance for nature-based carbon projects, with the mission of scaling investment into nature-based solutions in emerging and frontier markets. The Fund for Nature, in collaboration with Concordia Amazonas, is committed to expanding access to capital for high-integrity carbon projects in the Amazon biome.

"With only about 3% of global climate finance going towards nature-based solutions today, the Fund for Nature is addressing the massive funding gap for high-integrity projects in critical ecosystems globally," said CrossBoundary's Head of Natural Capital, Kate Wharton. "We are thrilled to partner with the Concordia Amazonas Initiative to expand our impact in the Amazon region, where there are exciting opportunities in which climate impact, biodiversity impact, and community impact go hand-in-hand."

Matthew Swift, Concordia's Co-Founder, President & CEO, said: "Across the Amazon rainforest, there is a lack of early-stage development capital to de-risk projects, enhance impact, and accelerate market development. Thanks to CrossBoundary Group, the Fund for Nature provides up-front finance for nature-based carbon projects in emerging and frontier markets. Their focus on ensuring equitable outcomes for all and working with local communities aligns closely with the approach of our Amazonas Initiative, and as such we're thrilled to be acting as the conveners for their expansion in the region."

Given the unique nature of the Concordia Amazonas Summit, capacity is limited and participation is determined on a case-by-case basis. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are available to foundations, committed corporations, and nonprofits to support and shape the program. To learn more, please email partnerships@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/

https://www.concordia.net/amazonas/2024-amazonas-summit/

About CrossBoundary Group:

CrossBoundary Group was founded in 2011 with the mission to unlock capital for sustainable growth and strong returns in underserved markets. Today, CrossBoundary Group has 200+ team members across 20+ offices worldwide.

This morning at its 2024 Americas Summit, Concordia - the leading public-private sector convener - announced a partnership with CrossBoundary Group's Fund for Nature (FFN). The announcement was made publicly during the session Expanding Access to Capital for Nature-Based Carbon Projects featuring H.E. Iván Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia and Chair of the Concordia Amazonas Initiative, Kate Wharton, Managing Director and Head of Natural Capital at CrossBoundary, and Matthew Swift, Co-Founder, President & CEO of Concordia.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Concordia names Porto, Portugal as host city of its 2024 Europe Summit on May 28-29

PORTO, Portugal /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia has named Porto, Portugal as the host city for its 2024 Europe Summit, taking place May 28-29, 2024. Building on the 2023 Concordia Europe Summit, which took place last June in Madrid, Spain (view the report), Concordia's fourth Europe Summit will bring together 100 decision makers for a set of high-level, interactive, and largely closed-door conversations on key challenges, opportunities, and priorities dominating the European agenda. Through Concordia's Concilium format, leaders will be positioned in front of an intimate audience and conversations will focus on three key themes: The Energy Transition; Economic Growth & Competitiveness; and, Cooperation, Peace & Security.

The Chair of the 2024 Europe Summit is H.E. José Manuel Barroso, Concordia Leadership Council Member, Chair of Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, and Former President of the European Commission, who commented: "Europe, throughout its rich history, has weathered countless tribulations, transformations, and triumphs. The region is at the precipice of a new chapter that demands our collective attention, candid discussions between the public and private sectors, and the forging of actionable, forward-thinking solutions. By bringing together leaders from various spheres, including government, business, civil society, and academia, the 2024 Europe Summit will inspire a setting that welcomes transparent discussions and innovative thinking. I'm thrilled to once again serve as Chair of this year's Europe Summit and look forward to coming together in Portugal."

Previous Concordia Europe Summits have heard from then-U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, David van Weel, NATO's Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid, and Cyber, and Helena Herrero, President & CEO, HP (Spain & Portugal). Speakers, partners, and sponsors for the 2024 Europe Summit will be announced on www.concordia.net on a rolling basis.

Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis, said: "Our fourth Europe Summit will not only provide key insights into the foremost challenges affecting Europe, but inspire the policy making necessary to drive progress. Welcoming many speakers from various industries, sectors, and countries, including ambassadors, former presidents and prime ministers, C-level executives, industry innovators, and reporters, we look forward to identifying opportunities for market-based, environmental, cyber-resilient solutions to the biggest challenges facing the European and global communities."

While the majority of conversations will be off the record, participants will have the opportunity to share their perspectives with select reporters in dedicated press breakouts and interviews. For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

More information: https://www.concordia.net/

View the 2023 Concordia Europe Summit report: https://uploads.concordia.net/2023/07/13142829/2023-Concordia-Europe-Summit-Report.pdf

Concordia has named Porto, Portugal as the host city for its 2024 Europe Summit, taking place May 28-29, 2024. Building on the 2023 Concordia Europe Summit, which took place last June in Madrid, Spain (view the report), Concordia's fourth Europe Summit will bring together 100 decision makers for a set of high-level, interactive, and largely closed-door conversations on key challenges, opportunities, and priorities dominating the European agenda.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Concordia Releases 2023 Amazonas Summit Solutions Report and Announces Guyana as Location for 2024

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, at its 2023 Annual Summit alongside the UN General Assembly in New York City, Concordia released its 2023 Amazonas Summit Solutions Report and announced Guyana as the location for next year's gathering.

The 2023 Concordia Amazonas Summit took place in Ecuador in July and brought together a group of leaders and decision makers in the Amazon rainforest with the goal of establishing market-driven, nature-based solutions to protecting the most important haven of biodiversity in the world.

The 2023 Amazonas Summit Solutions Report, available here ( https://uploads.concordia.net/2023/09/13154649/2023-Concordia-Amazonas-Summit-Report.pdf ), details key summary and action points related to three core themes: environmental sustainability, health opportunities & challenges, and cultural diplomacy & youth advocacy.

At today's 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, Concordia Leadership Council Member Iván Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia, said: "The Concordia Amazon Solutions Report is a mechanism to identify market-driven nature-based solutions, in which we are able to enhance the accessibility of Amazonic products in developed countries, reduce or eliminate deforestation, and identify market mechanisms to provide seed capital and angel investments to local entrepreneurs and indigenous entrepreneurs." He continued: "This report gathers the ideas of the brightest minds on environmental matters in the Western Hemisphere and it will become the reference model for the actions that we're going to embrace in the following months."

Concordia's Co-Founder, Matthew Swift, said: "The inaugural Concordia Amazonas Summit explored ways in which we can protect the biodiversity of the region, encourage indigenous entrepreneurism, mobilize climate finance, create a credible and replicable carbon market, and forge partnerships around innovative and scalable ideas to protect and renew the irreplaceable ecosystem. Today's release of this report represents a crucial step forward in our next steps and follow up, and we look forward to continuing these efforts ahead of gathering in Guyana next year."

Watch Concordia's just-released documentary here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xw93PnKIxto

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/

https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2023-annual-summit/

Today, at its 2023 Annual Summit alongside the UN General Assembly in New York City, Concordia released its 2023 Amazonas Summit Solutions Report and announced Guyana as the location for next year's gathering. Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Presidents of Türkiye, Dominican Republic, Paraguay, Malawi, and European Parliament among world leaders addressing 2023 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Heads of state from around the world will attend and speak at the 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, taking place September 18-20 at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Current heads of state participating in the summit include: H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President, Republic of Türkiye; H.E. Luis Abinader, President, Dominican Republic; H.E. Santiago Peña, President, Republic of Paraguay; H.E. Lazarus Chakwera, President, Republic of Malawi; H.E. Guillermo Lasso, President, Republic of Ecuador; H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President, Republic of Guyana; H.E. Tsai Ing-wen, President, Republic of China (Taiwan) (via video); and, H.E. Dritan Abazovic, Prime Minister, Republic of Montenegro.

The leading public-private sector forum alongside the UN General Assembly, the Concordia Annual Summit, upholds a remarkable legacy of uniting heads of state, policymakers, business executives, NGO leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists for over a decade. This year's gathering will establish market-led solutions to the greatest challenges of today, including the pivotal role of the private sector in combating disinformation to urgent issues like mental health, environmental sustainability, and artificial intelligence.

Additional speakers include: H.E. Roberta Metsola, President, European Parliament; The Rt. Hon. Tony Blair, Tony Blair Institute for Global Change; T.H. Sadiq Khan, Mayor, City of London; Hon. Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; Jon Banner, EVP, Global Chief Impact Officer, McDonald's Corporation; Nazanin Ash, CEO, Welcome.US; Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO, DP World; Simon Bishop, CEO, BBC Media Action; Tim Christophersen, Vice President of Climate Action, Salesforce; T.H. Elizabeth M. Allen, Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, U.S. Department of State; David Miliband, President & CEO, International Rescue Committee; and, Sam Stephens, Executive Director, AB InBev Foundation.

View all confirmed speakers and the agenda at:

https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/speakers

https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/4179467

Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis, said: "Over the last 13 years, our Annual Summit has emerged as the largest, most inclusive, and most politically balanced forum alongside the United Nations General Assembly. Through our three-day program featuring over 100 sessions and over 200 speakers, we look forward to advancing public and private sector cooperation and elevating market-led solutions to complex issues within the context of this important week for the world."

They continued: "Today's announcement truly demonstrates the global nature of this annual convening of a few thousand leaders from a range of sectors and industries and from across over 90 countries. There is no other time where the majority of the world's heads of state descend upon one city and we must use this time to step up and engage."

Concordia's Programming Sponsors are: Libra Group (Founding Sponsor); Calamos Investments, Meta (Principal Programming Sponsors); Merck, Siemens Healthineers (Lead Programming Sponsors); APCO, AT&T, BHP, DP World, ExxonMobil, Horizon Therapeutics, Salesforce, TC Energy, Trane Technologies, McDonald's, Microdose Psychedelic Insights, Microsoft (Patron Programming Sponsors); United Airlines (Travel Sponsor).

Concordia's Programming Partners are: Zayed Sustainability Prize Forum (Principal Programming Partner); AB InBev Foundation, CARE USA, Environmental Defense Fund, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, International Copper Alliance, Knight Foundation, Movement Health Foundation, Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, Stop TB Partnership, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, TREAT California, Word Vision (Lead Programming Partners); Knight Foundation, International Medical Corps, Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia, Food for the Hungry, NYC Mayor's Office of International Affairs, Rockefeller Foundation, Operation Smile, USA For International Organization For Migration, U.S. Department of State Office of Global Partnerships (Patron Programming Partners).

To attend the 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, register here ( https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/begin ) for a $2000 All Access Pass, $800 General Access Pass, or $250 Wednesday-only Pass, or sign up to Concordia's organizational membership program.

Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2023-annual-summit/

ABOUT CONCORDIA:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Learn more: https://www.concordialive.com/

Heads of state from around the world will attend and speak at the 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, taking place September 18-20 at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, UN Under-Secretary-General Melissa Fleming, Whole Foods CEO Jason Buechel, Bezos Earth Fund President & CEO Andrew Steer, Former Estonian President Kaljulaid, and National Intelligence Director Avril Haines to join 2023 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 2023 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place on September 18-20, 2023 at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The leading public-private sector forum alongside the UN General Assembly, the Concordia Annual Summit upholds a remarkable legacy of uniting heads of state, policymakers, business executives, NGO leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists for over a decade.

This year's gathering will establish market-led solutions to the greatest challenges of today, including the pivotal role of the private sector in combating disinformation to urgent issues like mental health, environmental sustainability, and emerging technologies.

SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Hon. Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; President Kersti Kaljulaid, Former President of Estonia; Jason Buechel, CEO, Whole Foods Market; Andrew Steer, President & CEO, Bezos Earth Fund; Hon. Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General, United Nations; Hon. Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence, Office of the Director of National Intelligence; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Richard Buery, CEO, Robinhood Foundation, Hon. Reta Jo Lewis, President & Chair, Export-Import Bank of the United States; Rt Hon. Nick Clegg, President, Global Affairs, Meta; John Koudounis, CEO, Calamos Investments; Dr. Bernd Montag, Chief Executive Officer, Siemens Healthineers; Amb. Carlos Pascual, Senior VP, Geopolitics & International Affairs, S&P Global; Holly Copeland, Executive Director, CSR, Sustainability & Impact, Horizon Therapeutics; Dr. Andrew "Drew" Otoo, President, Global Vaccines, Merck; H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President, Republic of Guyana; Hon. Jose W. Fernandez, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, U.S. Department of State; Juliana Olayinka, London Bureau Chief, Channels Television; Alex Amouyel, President & CEO, Newman's Own Foundation; Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO, Africa Finance Corporation; H.E. Dritan Abazović, Prime Minister, Republic of Montenegro; Dave Regnery, Chair & CEO, Trane Technologies; Amy Pope, Director-General Elect, International Organization for Migration; and, Elmo, The Muppet, Sesame Street.

View all confirmed speakers and the agenda:

https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/speakers

https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/4179467

"Concordia's unwavering nonpartisan status and convening power give us a critical responsibility to address the biggest issues of our time," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis. "We feel this responsibility now more than ever before, at a time when the partisan divide we're witnessing in the United States-and indeed in so many other parts of the world-threatens to erode the spirit of cooperation and trust in our institutions. At Concordia, we believe the path forward requires rebuilding this trust and creating confidence in the power of community. Over three days in New York City, our 13th Annual Summit will hear from dozens of business, government, and NGO leaders to define the biggest challenges and prompt solutions. We all have a role to play, so we urge individuals and organizations to join us in this collective effort."

Concordia's Programming Sponsors are: Libra Group (Founding Sponsor); Calamos Investments, Meta (Principal Programming Sponsors); Merck, Siemens Healthineers (Lead Programming Sponsors); APCO, AT&T, BHP, ExxonMobil, Horizon Therapeutics, Salesforce, TC Energy, Trane Technologies, McDonald's (Patron Programming Sponsors); United Airlines (Travel Sponsor).

Concordia's Programming Partners are: Zayed Sustainability Prize Forum (Principal Programming Partner); AB InBev Foundation, CARE USA, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, International Copper Alliance, Knight Foundation, Movement Health Foundation, Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, Operation Smile, Stop TB Partnership, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, Word Vision (Lead Programming Partners); International Medical Corps, Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia, Mayor's Office of International Affairs, USA For International Organization For Migration, U.S. Department of State Office of Global Partnerships (Patron Programming Partners).

To attend the 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, register here ( https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/begin ) for a $2000 All Access Pass, $800 General Access Pass, or $250 Wednesday-only Pass, or sign up to Concordia's organizational membership program.

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

The 2023 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place on September 18-20, 2023 at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The leading public-private sector forum alongside the UN General Assembly, the Concordia Annual Summit upholds a remarkable legacy of uniting heads of state, policymakers, business executives, NGO leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists for over a decade.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Concordia to host the 2023 United States Summit on November 7 in North Carolina’s Research Triangle

CARY, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia, the leading global convener on private and public sector cooperation, is hosting its 2023 United States Summit on November 7 in Cary, North Carolina, in the state's Research Triangle.

This one-day event is the second iteration of Concordia's domestic-focused summit, building on the 2022 United States Summit, which took place in Lexington, KY. Occurring at a pivotal moment in domestic affairs as the country looks toward the 2024 election cycle, this year's gathering will focus on delivering action-oriented public-private solutions to advance national priorities in the key areas of Trade, Manufacturing, & Supply Chains, Workforce Development & the Future of Work in a New Economy, and Health Opportunities & Challenges, with an overarching focus on leveraging the scale and buy-in of key private sector players.

Placing Concordia's inclusive and nonpartisan approach at its core, the Summit will provide a necessary platform for both multi-sector and bipartisan collaboration to effectively drive innovative solutions to the country's most pressing issues. It will occur at the headquarters of global analytics and AI leader SAS, a long-time collaborator of Concordia's and a Principal Programming Sponsor of the event.

"As the United States navigates an increasingly challenging domestic environment - with increased geopolitical tensions, rising inflation rates, industry and supply chain disruptions, and much more - Concordia will provide a key platform to bring together public and private sector leaders to explore market-led solutions that shape the outlook for the country," commented Concordia's Co-Founder & CEO, Matthew Swift. "We look forward to collaborating with government officials and U.S. businesses as we collectively identify opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and progress in the domestic agenda."

"Our mission at SAS is to provide knowledge in the moments that matter through being the most trustworthy analytics partner on the planet," said Paula Henderson, SAS' Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer for the Americas and a speaker at the inaugural United States Summit last year. "Hosting Concordia and this impactful event focused on finding solutions, opportunities, and innovations aligns perfectly with our ambition to use analytics to inspire a safer, faster, healthier, and more equitable world."

Ahead of the 2023 United States Summit, Concordia is hosting a dinner series in key U.S. cities. These small, curated gatherings will build the foundations for the Summit in terms of both network and focus areas. Interested parties are encouraged to email partnerships@concordia.net to learn more.

Registration will open in the coming months.

More information: https://www.concordia.net/united-states/2023-united-states-summit/

For press inquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

For event partnership and sponsorship opportunities, contact partnerships@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/.

Concordia, the leading global convener on private and public sector cooperation, is hosting its 2023 United States Summit on November 7 in Cary, North Carolina, in the state's Research Triangle. This one-day event is the second iteration of Concordia's domestic-focused summit, building on the 2022 United States Summit, which took place in Lexington, KY.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Concordia announces its new Leadership Council Co-Chair

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia today announced that former President of Costa Rica Laura Chinchilla is appointed Co-Chair of the Concordia Leadership Council, alongside current Chair George Logothetis. The announcement was formally made at today's 2022 Concordia Annual Summit.

A longstanding Concordia Leadership Council Member, this elevated role will last for a term of two years. President Chinchilla served as Costa Rica's first female President from 2010 to 2014. She also served as vice president, congresswoman, and Minister of Security and Justice.

On President Chinchilla's appointment, fellow Co-Chair George Logothetis commented, "I am proud to welcome President Chinchilla to the Leadership Council. Her experiences in government leadership, geopolitics, and academia give her a powerful perspective and profound wisdom to share. I look forward to working alongside her to support Concordia and its mission to advance important conversations that shape our world."

Concordia's Leadership Council is composed of former heads of state, leaders of industry, and policy experts with practical experience at every level of government and business. By offering strategic guidance, expanding our community, and advising programming, the Leadership Council contributes to all areas of our ever-growing organization. President Chinchilla's vast experience and expertise will add great value to the council.

Dr. Eduardo Padrón, Ph.D., President Emeritus, Miami Dade College, and Chair of the Leadership Council's Nominations Committee, said: "President Chinchilla brings with her a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a deep understanding of world dynamics."

View the full Leadership Council here: https://www.concordia.net/about/leadershipcouncil/

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Concordia today announced that former President of Costa Rica Laura Chinchilla is appointed Co-Chair of the Concordia Leadership Council, alongside current Chair George Logothetis. The announcement was formally made at today's 2022 Concordia Annual Summit.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Ivan Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia, announces historic Concordia Amazon Initiative at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Ivan Duque Marquez, Former President of Colombia, today announced the Concordia Amazon Initiative on the Metropolitan Stage of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit. The leading global affairs platform commenced its 12th annual convening on Monday, September 19 and it is being held through Wednesday, September 21, alongside the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The Amazon, which spans eight rapidly-developing countries and French Guiana, contains 1.4 billion acres of dense forests-half of the planet's remaining tropical forests. Additionally, there are 2.6 million square miles in the Amazon basin, which equates to around 40% of South America. The objective of the Concordia Amazon Initiative is to raise awareness around the intricate link between the health of the Amazon and the health of the planet, and the kinds of commitments the private sector can make to preserve the rainforest.

"The Concordia Amazon Initiative constitutes a milestone in the process of public-private engagement to protect, defend and promote the most important natural lung of our planet," commented Former President Duque.

He went on to say: "Through aggregated value chains with indigenous communities, conservation projects, the promotion of nature-based solutions, and green finance, we expect to build traceable and trustworthy interventions that will have a meaningful effect in a territory that is pivotal in any climate action policy framework."

The Initiative's first iteration will consist of a high-level strategic convening in the Amazon, bringing together leaders of the private and public sectors to provide education, training, and insight, and ultimately foster collaborative solutions.

Concordia's Co-Founder & CEO, Matthew Swift, said: "The Former President has placed environmental sustainability at the forefront of Colombia's agenda during his tenure, establishing an ambitious strategy for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and, specifically, mobilizing climate finance at scale to accelerate the country's transition to a green future. Now he is ensuring it is also at the forefront of our collective global agenda with his announcement today. We are honored to work with President Duque on this important and most relevant topic and convening."

LEARN MORE: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022annualsummit/

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/.

Ivan Duque Marquez, Former President of Colombia, today announced the Concordia Amazon Initiative on the Metropolitan Stage of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit. The leading global affairs platform commenced its 12th annual convening on Monday, September 19 and it is being held through Wednesday, September 21, alongside the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Cross-sector leaders to join the leading nonpartisan global affairs forum alongside UNGA

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 2022 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place next week, September 19-21, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Maintaining its position as the premier global affairs forum alongside the UN General Assembly, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit (purchase a pass here to attend) will convene today's preeminent C-suite executives, politicians, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest challenges of our time through the lens of collaboration.

Speakers include:

Goldie Hawn, Founder, MindUP | The Goldie Hawn Foundation; Anne M. Finucane, Chairman of the Board, Bank of America Europe; Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; Alison Moore, CEO, Comic Relief US; Dr. Olivia White, Director, Mckinsey Global Institute, Mckinsey & Company; Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Verizon; David Malpass, President, The World Bank Group; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Steve MacMillan, Chairman, President & CEO, Hologic, Inc.; Sofia Carson, Actress, Singer & UNICEF USA Ambassador; Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General, Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy; Dr. Bernard Harris, CEO, National Math and Science Initiative; Robbie Brozin, Founder, Nando's; Jo Ann Jenkins, CEO, AARP; Ginni Rometty, Former Chairman, President & CEO, IBM; Chip Lyons, President & CEO, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation; and, Dr. Bernd Montag, CEO, Siemens Healthineers.

View all confirmed speakers and the agenda.

* https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-speakers/

* https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-agenda/

"This month marks our 12th annual convening, and we're looking forward to bringing people together in person in New York City to prompt important conversations and, most importantly, find cross-sector solutions that go on to stand the test of time," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis.

Concordia's Programming Sponsors are:

Libra Group (Founding Sponsor); Microdose Psychedelic Insights (Principal Programming Sponsor); DP World, Faith & Media Initiative, Meta, Visa (Lead Programming Sponsors); APCO, ExxonMobil, Google, Hologic, Horizon Therapeutics, McKinsey, Merck, Microsoft, Salesforce, Siemens Healthineers, Tyson Foods, Veracity Worldwide, Verizon, Walmart (Patron Programming Sponsors); McDonald's, Rubicon (Sustainability Programming Sponsors).

Concordia's Programming Partners are: S

upreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (Principal Programming Partner); AB InBev Foundation, CARE, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, The Mayor's Office for International Affairs, UNICEF USA, World Vision (Lead Programming Partners); AARP, Rockefeller Foundation, TECO, The Wilson Center, University of Virginia Darden School of Business Institute for Business in Society, U.S. Department of State Office of Global Partnerships, United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (Patron Programming Partners).

To attend the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, purchase a $600 General Access Pass or sign up to Concordia's organizational membership program here - https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

The 2022 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place next week, September 19-21, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

First Lady Jill Biden to take the stage at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, will speak on the Metropolitan Stage of the first day of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, September 19, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Maintaining its position as the premier global affairs forum alongside the UN General Assembly, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit (register here to attend) will convene today's preeminent C-suite executives, politicians, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest challenges of our time through the lens of collaboration. From Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the resulting humanitarian crisis, to the critical role of the private sector in advancing environmental sustainability and technological innovation, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit will place the need for public-private partnership at its core.

Register here: https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

Dr. Biden previously spoke at the 2017 Concordia Annual Summit on the importance of building and sustaining strong healthcare infrastructure in driving global development, urging for dialogue across sectors, disciplines, and nations. Five years on, Dr. Biden will bring a unique perspective as First Lady of the United States.

"It is an honor to welcome back Dr. Biden to our Mainstage. A lifelong educator and public health advocate, and now as First Lady, Dr. Biden brings an invaluable perspective and will be an influential voice at this year's Annual Summit," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis. "This month marks our 12th annual convening, and we're looking forward to bringing people together in person to prompt important conversations and, most importantly, find cross-sector solutions that go on to stand the test of time."

The First Lady joins a powerful roster of leaders from across industries and sectors, including:

Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; Alison Moore, CEO, Comic Relief US; Anne M. Finucane, Chairman of the Board, Bank of America Europe;Dr. Olivia White, Director, Mckinsey Global Institute, Mckinsey & Company; Hon. Jeh Johnson, Former Secretary, U.S. Department Of Homeland Security; Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Verizon; David Malpass, President, The World Bank Group; Professor Soumitra Dutta, Dean-Elect, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford; Goldie Hawn, Founder, MindUP | The Goldie Hawn Foundation; Dikembe Mutombo, Chairman & President, Dikembe Mutombo Foundation; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Suzanne Clark, President & CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Hector Mujica, Head of Economy Opportunity, Google.org; Sofia Carson, Actress, Singer & UNICEF USA Ambassador; and, H.E. Dr. Lazarus Mccarthy Chakwera, President, Republic of Malawi.

View all confirmed speakers: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-speakers/

To attend the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, register here: https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

MULTIMEDIA:

LOGO Link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/22-0316-s2p-concordia-300dpi.jpg

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, will speak on the Metropolitan Stage of the first day of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, September 19, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

President Duque of Colombia, IBM’s Ginni Rometty, and Sister Norma Pimentel announced winners of 2022 Concordia Leadership Award

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Concordia Leadership Council announces the three recipients of the 2022 Leadership Award: Iván Duque Márquez, President of the Republic of Colombia, for the public sector; Ginni Rometty, Co-Chair of the Executive Board at OneTen and former Chairman, President & CEO of IBM, for the private sector; and, Sister Norma Pimentel, Executive Director of the Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, for the nonprofit sector.

President Duque will formally receive the award at the upcoming 2022 Concordia Americas Summit, taking place July 13-14 in Miami, FL and online (register here), while Ginni Rometty and Sister Norma Pimentel will be formally recognized at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, taking place September 19-21 at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel (register here).

Register online:

* https://www.concordialive.com/americas

* https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

The Concordia Leadership Award recognizes global leaders within the public, private, and nonprofit sectors who have made pioneering contributions and inspired others through their ability to turn vision into impact. Voted on by the Concordia Leadership Award Committee, recipients possess a commitment to catalyzing positive social and economic change while promoting effective public-private collaboration to create a more sustainable future. Past recipients include: Laura Bush, Former First Lady of the U.S.; Niels B. Christiansen, CEO of the LEGO Group; Mónica Ramírez, Founder & President of Justice for Migrant Women; Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart; Christiana Figueres, Founder of Global Optimism; António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations; Secretary Hillary R. Clinton, Former Security of State for the U.S.; and, Nobel Peace Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Concordia's Leadership Award Committee is chaired by Anita McBride, Concordia Leadership Council Member and Former Assistant to President George W. Bush & Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, who commented: "The Leadership Award Committee has once again undertaken a rigorous nomination and selection process, and I'm honored to announce the three recipients for 2022. From placing environmental sustainability high on the Latin American agenda to reducing poverty across the U.S. and transforming the role of business in advancing diversity & inclusion, we all have so much to learn from these three distinguished individuals."

For the public sector, Concordia recognizes President Duque for his exceptional leadership and immeasurable contributions through his service over the past four years. Exemplified by his administration's support of Venezuelan refugees, President Duque's compassion and amity have set a new international standard for humanitarian aid and his efforts to depolarize politics in Colombia and move away from partisanship display his commitments to balanced government and collaboration.

President Duque has also placed environmental sustainability at the forefront of Colombia's agenda, establishing an ambitious strategy for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and, specifically, mobilizing climate finance at scale to accelerate the country's transition to a green future. Crucially, in 2021, Duque made a historic commitment to declare 30% of its territory a protected area by 2022, eight years ahead of schedule. President Duque's previous leadership as Senator-including his attention to bills lengthening maternal leave, increasing defibrillator availability, and promoting creative industries-demonstrated his dedication to improving the quality of life for Colombians. Additionally, Concordia acknowledges the immense support President Duque has provided to the organization, from being an early advocate for Concordia's Summits to recruiting influential leaders to the global community.

"I am honored to receive the 2022 Leadership Award on behalf of the public sector. Concordia, for me, embodies the essence of global progress: collaboration, nonpartisanship, partnership, and inclusivity," said President Duque. "Colombia is facing a crossroads. As I reflect on my presidency over the last four years, and as the country enters uncharted waters, one thing is clear: open dialogue and collaboration, both across sectors and neighboring countries, is key to advancing progress. For that reason, I'm so honored to participate in the Concordia Americas Summit, which will fuel much-needed debate and seek out multi-stakeholder solutions."

For the private sector, Concordia is recognizing Ginni Rometty for her outstanding leadership and tremendous impact at OneTen and as CEO of IBM from 2012-2020. At IBM, Rometty made bold changes to reposition the company for the future of technology in Hybrid Cloud and Artificial Intelligence by expanding its assets, optimizing its portfolio, and modeling responsible digital stewardship. Her pioneering initiatives in diversity and inclusion set up the company for long-lasting success in the technology industry. Recognized by the Catalyst Award in 2018, Rometty's efforts to improve women's experiences in the workplace are important components of achieving workforce equality. Additionally, her work at OneTen to empower minority communities and support their place in the technology industry and beyond only further highlights her deep commitment to building and fostering sustainable labor forces and leadership in one of the world's most influential sectors.

"In this digital era, we could have a digital divide where the benefits of technology go to the few and not the many. We can all be part of making progress toward closing the skills gap and working to improve racial equity," said Rometty. "I truly believe that when we do, companies and leaders will see that inclusion creates better products and makes them more competitive. I'm honored to receive the 2022 Leadership Award and to share the work we're doing at OneTen to upskill, hire, and promote one million Black Americans into family-sustaining jobs over the next 10 years. I look forward to the Annual Summit and to continuing the conversation around how we break down systemic barriers and open the door to full participation in our economy."

For the nonprofit sector, Concordia has selected Sister Norma Pimentel for her notable efforts to support migrants seeking refuge in the U.S. along the Texas/Mexico border. In her role as Executive Director of the Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, Sister Pimentel oversees the charitable arm of the Diocese of Brownsville, providing oversight of the different ministries and services in the areas of the Rio Grande Valley through emergency assistance, homelessness prevention, disaster relief, clinical counseling, pregnancy care, food programs, and the Humanitarian Respite Center. Her organization has housed and assisted over 100,000 people at the border.

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/about/leadershipcouncil/

The Concordia Leadership Council announces the three recipients of the 2022 Leadership Award: Iván Duque Márquez, President of the Republic of Colombia, for the public sector; Ginni Rometty, Co-Chair of the Executive Board at OneTen and former Chairman, President & CEO of IBM, for the private sector; and, Sister Norma Pimentel, Executive Director of the Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, for the nonprofit sector.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

2022 Concordia Lexington Summit to hear from Governor Beshear, Mayor Gorton, Secretary Raimondo, Coach Mark Stoops, Governor Sununu and The Temptations

LEXINGTON, Ky. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia, a leading global convener that hosts the largest and most bi-partisan summit in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, is hosting its first-ever U.S.-focused summit on April 7-8 in Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the future of technology, trade and environmental sustainability. Taking place in person and digitally, the Summit will hear from Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, New Hampshire Governor Christopher Sununu, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe, Head Football Coach of the University of Kentucky Mark Stoops, Eli Capioluto, President of the University of Kentucky and Rubicon Technologies Chairman & CEO Nate Morris, among others.

More speaker announcements to come shortly. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-speakers/.

The 2022 Lexington Summit will also feature an exclusive reception honoring the spirit of the heartland of America, with a special live performance by Detroit natives and Grammy-winning R&B legends, The Temptations, at the Lexington Opera House. During the Summit, Jonathan Martin, New York Times reporter, will be discussing his book This Will not Pass: Trump, Biden and the Battle for America's Future, an account of the 2020 election and the first year of the Biden presidency, co-written with his New York Times colleague Alexander Burns.

Additionally, Frank Luntz, CEO of FIL, Inc, will moderate a session with student leaders from the University of Kentucky to share perspectives on civic engagement, democracy, economic potential and their outlook on the future as the rising group of next generation leaders.

The 2022 Concordia Lexington Summit will convene a variety of voices across the political spectrum and across sectors to advance civil discourse and understanding between the different socioeconomic worlds present in the U.S. The Summit will take place in partnership with the following three academic units of the University of Kentucky: the J. David Rosenberg College of Law, the Gatton College of Business and Economics, and the College of Education. The full agenda can be viewed here: https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-agenda/.

"Rubicon is honored to be a part of the 2022 Lexington Summit in our hometown," said Nate Morris, Chairman and CEO of Rubicon, Principal Sponsor for the 2022 Lexington Summit and Chair of the event. "Kentucky offers tremendous benefits to entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to start or grow their companies, and we hope to showcase the Commonwealth to the world and demonstrate how the American heartland can become a leading technology and innovation hub."

Press can register here to attend in person or digitally: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-lexington-summit-tickets-242919758537

For in-person press passes, use code OA_Press. For digital passes, use code DA_Press. Press pass holders must show a valid press credential onsite. Concordia's in-person COVID-19 policy can be found here - https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-covid19-policy/.

You can take advantage of our Lexington Marriott City Center Hotel room block, which has a number of discounted rooms available from April 4 until April 8, 2022 (with limited availability the night of April 8). Rooms can be booked here. Additional rooms are also available from April 4 until April 9 at 21C Lexington, a boutique hotel located around the corner from the venue. Guests can book here to secure a discounted rate per night: https://book.passkey.com/event/50312140/owner/49548491/home

For any questions, please email rsvp@concordia.net.

For press inquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Concordia, a leading global convener that hosts the largest and most bi-partisan summit in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, is hosting its first-ever U.S.-focused summit on April 7-8 in Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the future of technology, trade and environmental sustainability.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

2022 Americas Summit will take place in Miami in July 2022 in partnership with the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS)

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia has announced that it will hold its 2022 Americas Summit in Miami, Florida in July, 2022. The Concordia Americas Summit was originally scheduled to take place alongside the Ninth Summit of the Americas in June in Los Angeles, California.

Concordia, in close consultation with its partner, the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS), made this shift in timing to complement and support their critical agenda and resulting work of the Summit of the Americas. Concordia looks forward to hosting this important follow-on event, continuing to contribute to the conversation and creating impactful partnerships.

The Concordia Americas initiative began in 2016, with its inaugural Summit in Miami, Florida, and subsequent convenings in Bogotá, Colombia, gathering leaders from the public, nonprofit and private sectors. The region's critical position on the global stage, and the interconnected nature of its challenges with the success of the Western Hemisphere, aligns with Concordia's ethos to create an inclusive, collaborative global community.

"We are thrilled to continue strengthening our partnership between the General Secretariat of the OAS (GS/OAS) and Concordia. The 2022 Concordia Americas Summit represents a unique opportunity to connect key stakeholders and envision new public-private social impact initiatives to benefit the people of our Hemisphere. It is times like these that require that institutions work together to uphold principles of democracy, human rights, security and development," said Luis Almagro, Secretary General, OAS.

"Since 2016, the Americas have been a focal point for Concordia with the establishment of the Concordia Americas Initiative. The 2022 Americas Summit will gather a powerful roster of speakers, including world renowned political leaders, business innovators, global non-governmental representatives, and impressive young minds to tackle some of the toughest issues facing the Western Hemisphere. The GS/OAS has been a key ally for Concordia in the region and we're thrilled to support their agenda in the Summit of the Americas," said Matthew Swift, Co-founder & CEO, Concordia.

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As an equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Learn more at: https://www.concordia.net/

About OAS:

The General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS) is the central and permanent organ of the Organization. The OAS is the world's oldest regional organization, dating back to the First International Conference of American States, held in Washington, D.C., from October 1889 to April 1890.

Concordia has announced that it will hold its 2022 Americas Summit in Miami, Florida in July, 2022. The Concordia Americas Summit was originally scheduled to take place alongside the Ninth Summit of the Americas in June in Los Angeles, California.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/