New Perspective Media Group (NPMG) CEO Dr. Karen Remo has been named among the global honorees of the Icons of Change International Awards 2026, a recognition that celebrates leaders advancing sustainable development and positive social impact.
The recognition, under the United Arab Emirates chapter of the awards program, cites Remo’s leadership, ingenuity, and commitment to creating meaningful impact through media, communications, business leadership, and community engagement.
Remo joins a distinguished roster of international honorees that includes Rotary International Director 2026–2028 Tom Gump, former Netflix Asia Pacific Vice President for Communications Amy Kunrojpanya, BBC senior producer and investigative journalist Chris Rogers, BBC World Service correspondent Mike Thomson, Emmy Award-winning journalist Pauleen Le, veteran broadcaster Bernard Lo, The Globe and Mail European Bureau Chief Eric Reguly, Nanyang Technological University professor Erick Lansard, and Pathways To Peace President David Wick, among other leaders from global media, academia, and civil society.
Icons of Change describes itself as a global recognition platform that highlights leaders and innovators whose work strengthens civic engagement, resilience, and sustainable development. The 2026 edition aligns with the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development.
Organizers said the initiative recognizes that meaningful contributions to society are no longer limited to volunteer work alone, but can also emerge through leadership, innovation, business, and professional practice.
The Middle East and North Africa chapter of Icons of Change is led by Rasha Qandeel.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and to be included among a distinguished global community of changemakers advancing sustainable development,” she said.
“The vision of the Icons of Change International Awards resonates strongly with me, particularly its recognition that meaningful impact is often created through our everyday work, leadership, and commitment to serving communities. Today, advancing sustainable development is no longer limited to traditional volunteerism. It is reflected in how organizations operate, how leaders make decisions, and how businesses create value for society.”
Remo said New Perspective Group has intentionally aligned its initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of poverty reduction, quality education, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, and strong institutions.
She also highlighted the international reach of the organization, which has supported more than 1,000 government agencies, companies, and brands across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States over the past two decades.
“As we continue expanding our work in ESG reporting, sustainability communications, and purpose-driven business strategies, this recognition reinforces our commitment to creating measurable impact while helping organizations contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future,” Remo said.
She also highlighted the role of The Filipino Times in promoting transparency, responsible leadership, and community engagement.
Remo dedicated the recognition to the organization’s team, partners, clients, collaborators, and the communities it serves.
“To my team, our partners, clients, collaborators, and the communities we serve — this recognition belongs to you,” she said.
“And to everyone joining us today: may we continue proving that meaningful change does not always require grand gestures. May we all continue becoming instruments of positive change in the world.”
