The Center for Communication & Public Relations (CCPR) marked its 10th anniversary today, celebrating a decade of innovation and leadership in Suriname’s communication sector. Established in 2015, CCPR has evolved into a premier knowledge hub for communication professionals, according to its chairperson, Angela van der Kooye. ‘Ten years ago, we set out to strengthen the communication profession and bring professionals together. Today, communication is no longer a side note but a strategic tool for development. And this is just the beginning,’ she remarked. Over the years, CCPR has launched numerous initiatives that have reshaped the field. The National Communication Congress has become a key platform for knowledge exchange among government, businesses, and civil society. Additionally, CCPR introduced the communication magazine *Relatief* and the Communication Awards, which recognize excellence in customer-focused and ethical communication. The organization has also prioritized nurturing young talent through initiatives like the Youth Communication Congress, the mentorship program *Mi na Gowtu*, and educational bootcamps. CCPR has further advanced quality standards with the introduction of the Customer-Focused Communication Certification (2019) and the National Guidelines for Customer Service (2023). Internationally, CCPR has fostered partnerships with organizations like LOGEION in the Netherlands and regional networks in the Caribbean, promoting knowledge exchange. During the Covid-19 pandemic, CCPR supported society with online training and a specialized PR handbook for journalists. With a renewed board taking office in 2024, CCPR is now focusing on digitalization, ethical communication, and further professionalization of the field. ‘Communication is the glue that connects people and organizations,’ Van der Kooye emphasized. ‘Our ambition remains to make Suriname excel in professional, customer-focused, and transparent communication.’
