Gurugram: BMW India Foundation is advancing its commitment to inclusive and sustainable development by supporting and upskilling traditional artisans across India. Guided by the vision to preserve the authenticity of indigenous art forms while connecting artists to contemporary resources and markets, the Foundation’s initiatives aim to enable sustainable livelihoods and enhance upward social mobility for artisan communities.

Launched in 2025, the artisan empowerment programme addresses long-standing challenges faced by traditional artists, including limited access to structured skilling, contemporary design exposure, and organised market platforms. Through partnerships with experienced implementation organisations, BMW India Foundation is creating pathways that allow artisans to strengthen their craft, respond to evolving consumer demand, and build resilient income streams.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President & CEO, BMW Group India said, “At BMW India Foundation, we deeply respect the incredible craftsmanship and rich traditions of India’s artisans. For us, this is not just about preserving beautiful art forms, it’s about supporting the talented people who bring them to life. Many of these artisans face real challenges, from limited access to new skills to difficulty reaching bigger marketplaces. We want to help change that by giving them the tools, training, scope for experimentation and opportunities they need to grow and sustain their livelihoods. Programs like Project Chitravan and Project Phulkari are very close to our hearts. They allow artisans to stay connected to their roots while exploring new ideas and designs that appeal to modern customers.”

In central India, BMW India Foundation has partnered with the Craft and Community Development Foundation (CCDF) to implement Project Chitravan, supporting tribal artisans from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra practising indigenous art forms such as Gond, Warli, Bhil, Baiga, Sohrai, and Kohvar. Artists are selected based on craftsmanship, creative potential, and economic need, and are provided structured mentorship and contemporary design inputs to help them evolve creatively while retaining the authenticity of traditional narratives and techniques. Around 40 tribal artisans across central India are currently being nurtured under this initiative.

In Punjab, BMW India Foundation has joined hands with the Delhi Crafts Council to strengthen and modernise the traditional craft of Phulkari embroidery. The initiative focuses on skill enhancement, revival of authentic techniques, and adoption of sustainable practices such as natural dyes and responsible material usage. Artisans collaborate with textile designers to co-create contemporary product lines, including stoles, apparel accents, home décor items, and accessories, improving product relevance and market access. Training in digital literacy and market readiness further enables artisans to engage with buyers and participate confidently in emerging market platforms. Around 30 artisans in Punjab are currently being supported under this initiative.

BMW India Foundation

BMW India Foundation has been set up with the objective of implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes on behalf of BMW Group entities in India – BMW Group India, BMW India Financial Services and BMW India Leasing. The Foundation carries forward existing community initiatives and works to scale them up through long-term commitment and deep partnerships with implementation organisations, creating sustainable and measurable social impact.

If you have any queries, please contact:

Richa Sharma, Press and Corporate Affairs, BMW Group India | +91 99100 22148 | Richa.Sharma@bmw.in

Stuti Sehgal, Concept PR | +91 87440 80106 | stuti@conceptpr.com

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Gurugram: With shared vision of building a future-ready generation, BMW Group and UNICEF today highlighted the annual impact of their global BRIDGE partnership in India. Since its launch in December 2024, the initiative has reached around 110,216 children and 397 educators in India across multiple states by strengthening foundational learning and expanding access to hands-on STEM education.

The BRIDGE initiative is part of a long-term global collaboration between BMW Group and UNICEF till 2030, aimed at equipping children with future-ready skills through supporting state governments on STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). In India, the programme adopts a two-pronged approach to education reform - strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy in early grades, and expanding access to practical, experiential STEM learning for adolescents.

Implemented in close collaboration with state governments, the initiative is currently active across Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam and Tamil Nadu. The programme creates inclusive STEM learning environments through strengthening teacher capacity and experiential learning using low-cost maker spaces, STEM kits, and new science labs in under-served schools.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The BMW Group’s global partnership with UNICEF underscores our commitment to education as a catalyst for lasting social and economic progress. In India, we are proud of the strides made in strengthening foundational learning and creating opportunities for children, especially girls, to explore STEM. We remain dedicated to supporting scalable, high-impact initiatives that empower the next generation for a brighter future. Through the long-term programme spread over several years, we will ensure that this progress goes a long way towards creating real, on-ground impact.”

Ms. Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative said, “Today’s employment opportunities come with greater demands for competencies in STEM. Girls, in particular, miss out on opportunities to learn and practice STEM. For this very reason, the BMW-UNICEF partnership is investing in making education more accessible and inclusive, especially for girls, leading to greater economic and social self-reliance.”

During the first year of implementation, the partnership delivered measurable outcomes on ground. A total of 397 educators across 142 schools were trained in evidence-based practices to improve early-grade literacy and numeracy, while large-scale digital webinars reached 17,830 teachers, strengthening classroom instruction and foundational pedagogy at scale. A situational analysis helped develop a state-level action plan to strengthen supervisory systems. The engagement of parents and caregivers was successfully strengthened through regular meetings, fostering closer home home–school collaboration.

West Bengal

In West Bengal, a STEM Instructional Manual with 90 experiential activities was developed, including the use of household items to explain fractions and 10 maker spaces were set up. A digital supervision app now tracks classroom practices such as inclusion, use of learning materials, creating a safe and engaging environment, and encouraging active participation. Supervisors use the app’s data to give feedback and plan improvements with teachers. Since October 2024, over 8,000 school visits have been logged. In addition, large-scale events, like the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, engaged nearly 59,000 students, promoting gender equity.

Assam

Hands-on STEM content was successfully piloted in 30 schools, reaching over 7,000 students in Assam. Classroom observations and teacher surveys were carried out to inform the redesign of difficult topics. Interactive learning packages were piloted, including experiments using local materials to explain concepts like motion and fractions.

Jharkhand

Evidence points out that children learn best when taught in their most familiar language. To help children do so, the development of bilingual textbooks for Grades 1 and 2 in Assam and Jharkhand was supported. These books align with the state curriculum and reflect local contexts, enabling a smooth transition from home language to the language used at school. Jharkhand also received support to equip 11 STEM labs in girls’ residential schools (KGBVs) and distribute STEM kits in 82 KGBVs. STEM kits give students the chance to learn through practical experiments. With simple tools like soldering irons, batteries, and other basic components, these kits make science and technology more accessible and engaging. They help strengthen problem problem-solving skills and spark curiosity, turning abstract concepts into real-world applications. Moreover, 130 activity activity-based modules were developed for hard hard-to-learn topics such as algebra and molecular structures, using clay modelling, bead-and-wire models, and local art forms for geometry.

Tamil Nadu

The ‘STEM on Wheels’ programme brought mobile demonstrations of science and math experiments to schools in rural and coastal areas, enabling hands-on learning.

Globally, the BMW Group–UNICEF partnership aims to reach more than 10 million children and young people every year through education and training initiatives, including STEM learning, across five countries where BMW Group has a strong operational presence - India, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico, and Thailand.

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

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About UNICEF 

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF and its work for children visit www.unicef.org

Follow UNICEF on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

For more information, please contact:

BMW Group: 

Richa Sharma, Head of Press and Corporate Affairs

Cell: +91 99100 22148; Email: Richa.Sharma@bmw.in

UNICEF India:

Alka Gupta, Communication Specialist, +91 730 325 9183, agupta@unicef.org

Sonia Sarkar, Communication Officer (Media), +91 9810170289, ssarkar@unicef.org

Gurugram. In a pioneering effort to make golf more inclusive and accessible, BMW India Foundation has joined hands with The Golf Foundation to launch ‘Golf for Everyone’ - a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing golfing talent among underprivileged children.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “Golf has traditionally been perceived as a sport limited to the privileged few due to accessibility and resource constraints. The ‘Golf for Everyone’ program seeks to change this narrative by creating opportunities for talented young athletes regardless of their socio-economic background. By bringing golf to the doorsteps of underprivileged children, we hope to foster a truly community-driven sporting culture that celebrates diversity and equal opportunity. BMW India Foundation’s vision is to nurture projects that transcend socio-economic boundaries and becomes truly inclusive. We strongly believe projects like ‘Golf for Everyone’ hold that tremendous transformational power.”

As part of this endeavor, BMW India Foundation and The Golf Foundation are conducting India’s largest annual golf talent hunt for 2025-26. Through this extensive grassroots golf discovery program, the search for talent will begin with in-school talent identification camps across government and low-income schools. To participate in the talent hunt, children can also WhatsApp “I am Talent” on +91 93106 92833.

Using portable hitting mats, nets, and putting kits, children undergo simple athletic evaluations such as throws, sprints, jumps, and coordination drills. This initial screening helps identify young athletes who show potential in physical agility and coordination.

Children shortlisted from these camps will progress to regional on-range golf camps, hosted at golf facilities across multiple Indian states. Here, participants will be introduced to the fundamentals of golf and assessed for basic skills, creating a bridge between raw talent and formal training. Over 1,800 - 2,000 children are expected to be screened through these multi-stage processes, culminating in a National Talent Hunt that will select approximately 30 promising young golfers to receive advanced support.

The selected children will benefit from a comprehensive support framework that includes regular professional coaching, access to high-quality equipment, tournament exposure, mentorship, and financial assistance. This holistic development program aims to empower these young athletes to pursue golf professionally while also supporting their overall personal growth.

The ‘Golf for Everyone’ initiative not only aims to identify future champions but also strives to instill values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship among the youth. By democratizing access to golf, the program hopes to inspire a new generation of achievers who will carry forward the legacy of Indian sports on national and global platforms.

About BMW India Foundation

The BMW India Foundation has been set up with the objective of implementing Corporate Social Responsibility programs on behalf of BMW Group Entities in India – BMW Group India, BMW India Financial Services and BMW India Leasing. BMW India Foundation continues to carry forward the existing engagements already undertaken by the BMW Group India entities and endeavors to significantly scale them up to achieve the intended benefits. It aims to drive the corporate citizenship agenda forward through long term commitment for the projects and deeper association with implementation partners for more positive impact.

About The Golf Foundation

The Golf Foundation is India’s pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and developing the game of golf at the grassroots level. Established with the vision to make golf accessible to all, it focuses on discovering and nurturing young talent, especially from underprivileged communities, through structured training programs, talent hunts, and educational initiatives. By fostering inclusivity and encouraging participation, The Golf Foundation plays a vital role in building a sustainable future for golf in India, inspiring the next generation of golfers to achieve excellence both on and off the course.

If you have any queries, please contact:

BMW Group India

Richa Sharma, Head of Press and Corporate Affairs

Cell: +91 9910022148; Email: Richa.Sharma@bmw.in

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Munich / Berlin. Now in its fourth year, the successful partnership between BMW Group and ESMT Berlin continues to evolve. The BMW Group Change Maker Fellowships, launched in 2022, are being extended in 2025 to include ESMT’s full-time MBA and MSc programs alongside the Global Online MBA and will focus on shaping leadership for a digital future.

For the upcoming academic year, eight fellowships will be offered:

• two fellowships for the Full-time MBA program (January 2026 intake)
• two fellowships for the MSc programs (October 2025 intake) and
• four fellowships for the Global Online MBA program (October 2025 intake).

This expansion marks an important shift in the collaboration between the BMW Group and ESMT. By investing in students across the business school’s degree programs, the BMW Group will support a broader and more diverse group of future leaders with strong backgrounds in mathematics and technology. These individuals will be uniquely positioned to drive positive change in business and society by bringing innovative thinking to real-world challenges in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for People and Real Estate, and Labor Relations Director emphasized the importance of this commitment. She said, "We are delighted to partner with ESMT to foster the next generation of Change Makers. Bold innovations require bold individuals. Through our commitment to additional ESMT programs, we are investing in future leaders."

Applicants must have an academic or professional background in mathematics or technology-related fields and be citizens or permanent residents of Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, China, USA or South Africa or hold refugee status in Germany. MSc and full-time MBA applicants must also be aged 30 or younger on September 1, 2025.

When applying for the BMW Group Change Maker Fellowships, candidates will be asked to answer the following question: the BMW Group seeks to actively shape the future of mobility; what aspect of a digital future fascinates you the most and why?

In total, the BMW Group currently employs around 10,000 people worldwide in IT & software development. It has been pooling the company's IT expertise in IT and software hubs worldwide since 2008. In addition to the locations in Germany, South Africa, the USA, Portugal and China, there are now two more in Romania and India. The hubs have their own distinctive tech culture and a high degree of autonomy, making them attractive places to work for regional talent pools. For this reason, BMW Group is offering the 2025 Change Maker Fellowships with a focus on digitalization to select countries of its BMW Group IT-Hub network.

ESMT President Jörg Rocholl commented, “The Change Maker Fellowships continue to deepen our shared mission with BMW Group: to foster tech-savvy leaders capable of driving meaningful, global change.”

Since their inception, the Change Maker Fellowships have emerged as a strategic initiative positioned at the crossroads of societal responsibility and global talent development. They reflect BMW Group and ESMT’s shared commitment to unlocking potential and guiding individuals toward meaningful, high-impact careers.

More information on the fellowship and the application process may be found here

If you have any questions, please contact:

Press Contact BMW Group Corporate Communications

Milena Pighi
Communications HR, Real Estate, Culture, Corporate Citizenship
Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship
Email: milena.pa.pighi@bmwgroup.com
Telephone: +49-160-978-24316

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

Press Contact ESMT Berlin
Lennart Richter
Press Spokesperson
Email: lennart.richter@esmt.org
Telephone: +49-160-5521-393

Gurugram. BMW India Foundation has joined hands with Smile Foundation to implement a STEM learning initiative in schools in Delhi NCR. BMW India Foundation’s support will help provide science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and skills development to over 2,500 students each year. 

The project will engage young students from 6^th – 8^th grade in 25 schools in Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Gurugram. This includes 5 government aided schools, and 20 community schools located in underprivileged / low-income communities.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “BMW India Foundation is committed to empowering the next generation through education and innovation. The new STEM learning initiative launched for Delhi NCR marks a step towards bridging the skills gap in our communities. By providing state-of-the-art laboratories and mobile STEM education, creativity and problem-solving skills will be inculcated in young minds. This initiative prepares students for a technology-driven future and promotes inclusivity in STEM fields, particularly for underprivileged children. Together, we are nurturing a generation of thinkers and innovators who will drive India’s economic growth and technological advancement."

The initiative has two aspects – the first is establishing state-of-the-art laboratories in government aided schools and the second is launching ‘STEM on Wheels’ mobile lab to reach students in smaller community schools. Both type of labs will be equipped with the latest concept demonstration apparatus, testing devices, digital tools, small robotic models, learning kits and much more. The mobile lab is also powered by a 1,500-watt solar panel on roof for more sustainable lab operation in unserved areas.

Through interactive experiences and hands-on learning opportunities, students will develop the aptitude and attitude geared towards problem-solving skills and creativity. In addition, numerous workshops, annual science fair and innovation challenge will further help in greater motivation and involvement. The teachers will also be provided the required training for effective instructions.

In line with India’s National Education Policy, which places a strong emphasis on STEM education, the initiative aims to increase interest in STEM disciplines at an early age. It will foster critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving skills in students, preparing them for a technology-driven future.

STEM-related jobs are the engine of India’s economic growth, yet many of these jobs are projected to go unfilled due to a gap in skills. The problem is more acute in low and middle-income groups and much more prevalent among girls and women. Today, women constitute a minority in both STEM education and careers, representing only 30 per cent of graduates in engineering and technology fields.

In addition to this new STEM initiative with Smile Foundation, the BMW Group has also been working closely with UNICEF to transform the educational landscape in India. Globally, BMW Group has a long-term partnership with UNICEF, under the slogan “BRIDGE. Educating young people for tomorrow, today.” The STEM education project was introduced in India in 2024, aiming to benefit 100,000 children in four states. The partnership is providing access to quality STEM education to adolescent girls from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas and Tribal Ashramshalas, belonging to the most marginalized groups in hard-to-reach rural areas in states of Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

BMW India Foundation

The BMW India Foundation has been set up with the objective of implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs on behalf of BMW Group Entities in India – BMW Group India, BMW India Financial Services and BMW India Leasing. BMW India Foundation continues to carry forward the existing engagements already undertaken by the BMW Group India entities and endeavors to significantly scale them up to achieve the intended benefits. It aims to drive the corporate citizenship agenda forward through long term commitment for the projects and deeper association with implementation partners for more positive impact.

Smile Foundation

Started in 2002, Smile Foundation is an Indian development organization that works with children and their families at the grassroot level to provide access to quality education, primary healthcare and livelihood opportunities. It has over 400 projects, spread over 2,000 villages and slums in 25 states of the country. Smile Foundation’s Mission Education project focusses on a child-centric approach, involving communities, and fostering holistic development. The initiative bridges educational gaps and empowers children to become well-rounded, confident individuals. This project serves as a catalyst to spread STEM education in unserved schools across the country apart from other initiatives in the education domain.

If you have any queries, please contact:

BMW Group India

Abhay Dange, Director, Press and Corporate Affairs

Cell: +91 99104 81013; Email: Abhay.Dange@bmw.in

Richa Sharma, Business and Finance Communication

Cell: +91 99100 22148; Email: Richa.Sharma@bmw.in

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Gurugram. The BMW Group and UNICEF today announced their partnership in India, aiming to transform the educational landscape for 100,000 children in four states with a focus on foundational learning and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills from early years through adolescence. The partnership will provide access to quality STEM education to adolescent girls from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas and Tribal Ashramshalas, belonging to the most marginalized groups in hard-to-reach rural areas in states of Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

The partnership is part of a global long-term partnership between the BMW Group and UNICEF to reach more than 10 million children and young people each year through education and training, including learning in STEM subjects in five countries where BMW has large operations, including South Africa, Brazil, Mexico, and Thailand.

In India, BMW and UNICEF will focus on nurturing foundational literacy and numeracy skills in rural primary schools to build a solid cognitive foundation for children. As they progress into adolescence, children will have access to innovative, engaging learning experiences through low-cost maker spaces to nurture curiosity, creativity, and imagination in young minds.

Together with the Government of India, and the four state governments, BMW and UNICEF aim to create an inclusive learning environment that supports national goals for gender equality and education.

“Current employment opportunities come with greater demands for competencies in STEM. Girls particularly miss out on opportunities to learn and practice STEM. Thus, UNICEF is proud to support building a strong foundation for critical thinking in the early years of learning. The BMW-UNICEF partnership makes this possible by investing in making education more accessible and inclusive, especially for girls. The result is greater economic and social self-reliance leading to more opportunities,” said Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “BMW Group sees itself as an integral part of the society and through impactful initiatives, we want to drive deep-rooted social change. BMW Group’s partnership with UNICEF harnesses the most powerful tool for empowerment - education. STEM knowledge is crucial for smart thinking and innovation in today’s competitive, interconnected environment. Merging this educational initiative with gender equality and inclusion, especially for underprivileged girl child in India, enhances its effectiveness exponentially.”

The key-components of this collaboration include:

Recognizing that children who struggle with basic reading and numeracy are likely to face challenges in school, the programme focuses on foundational literacy and numeracy in primary grades. The initiative provides a strong cognitive base by facilitating these skills upon which STEM knowledge can be built.

• UNICEF will develop a tailored curriculum to train teachers, enhancing their skills in STEM instruction. This training will also address gender stereotypes and focus on empowering girls through skills development and leadership programmes. By creating a dedicated cadre of STEM-trained teachers, the BMW-UNICEF partnership will help elevate the quality of STEM education in classrooms in the four states.
• The establishment of low-cost maker spaces within these schools will allow adolescent girls to explore design thinking, computational analysis, adaptive learning, and physical computing. These creative hubs aim to make STEM learning hands-on and engaging, igniting curiosity and encouraging innovative thinking.

BMW Group India 

With BMW, MINI and Motorrad, the BMW Group has its sight set firmly on the premium sector of the Indian automobile market. Along with cars and motorcycles, BMW Group's activities in India comprise of financial services for its premium clientele. BMW India and BMW India Financial Services are 100% subsidiaries of the BMW Group and are headquartered in Gurgaon (National Capital Region).

BMW India started operations in 2007. The wide range of its activities include a manufacturing plant in Chennai, a parts warehouse in Pune, a training centre in Gurgaon NCR and development of a dealer organisation across major metropolitan centres of the country. BMW Group Plant Chennai locally produces nine car models.

MINI has successfully established itself as a premium small car brand in India since its launch in January 2012. BMW Motorrad officially started its operations as a part of the Indian subsidiary of BMW Group in April 2017. With BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad, BMW Group India currently has over 80 touchpoints across the country.

BMW India Financial Services, a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC), started operations in 2010. It operates with three business lines: Retail Finance, Commercial Finance and Insurance Solutions (as corporate agents). The services offered through BMW India Financial Services are significantly valuable to the premium clientele who require exclusive and flexible financial solutions.

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About UNICEF 

UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, works to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, especially the most disadvantaged children and in the toughest places to reach. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive, and fulfil their potential. UNICEF India relies on the support and donations from businesses and individuals to sustain and expand health, nutrition, water and sanitation, education, social policy and social protection and child protection programmes for all girls and boys in India. Support us today to help every child survive and thrive.

For more information on UNICEF India and its work visit https://www.unicef.org/india/ 

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For more information please contact:

Alka Gupta, UNICEF India, agupta@unicef.org 7303259183/ 9810216226 (WA)

Munich/Cascais. The India-based organization “Shreeja India” is one of the ten grassroots initiatives, which were honored yesterday as recipient of the Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH), a joint initiative of the United Nations of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, implemented with the support of Accenture.

The ceremony was held in the framework of the 10th UNAOC Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future – Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”. The Forum convened prominent figures, political leaders, UN officials including the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, as well as representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector, to share insights and reflect on the 20 years of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations’ impactful work.

The organization “Shreeja India” and its initiative “Football and Beyond”

“Shreeja India” was recognized for its project, Football and Beyond, which leverages the unifying power of football to bridge divides across diverse backgrounds while promoting inclusivity and empowerment. By using football as a development tool, the initiative integrates sports with education, mental wellness, social awareness, and skills development. This holistic approach empowers girls and uplifts communities that lack access to essential services such as basic education, nutrition, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities, paving the way for sustainable growth and social cohesion.
"Shreeja India’s inclusive tactic to empower underprivileged girls and children with a sports-based endeavor is producing powerful narratives in the grassroots of rural India. With the recognition of the Intercultural Innovation Hub, we feel more driven to connect, collaborate and contribute towards breaking barriers and building cohesive societies," said Somasree Basu, Program Manager at Shreeja India.

“With the Intercultural Innovation Hub, we celebrate outstanding initiatives implemented by extraordinary individuals working to bridge intercultural divisions in innovative and impactful ways,” said Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director. “At the BMW Group, we believe that diversity not only enhances our company but is crucial for social unity and global progress. That is why we are deeply thankful for our strong partnership with the UNAOC. This collaboration allows us to support remarkable initiatives like Shreeja India’s work in empowering underprivileged children, making a tangible difference in their communities and contributing to a better and more inclusive Indian society.”

“We are committed to advancing inclusive, global communities by empowering grassroots initiatives that champion diversity and social cohesion. The Intercultural Innovation Hub showcases innovative projects that directly address these goals, and we are immensely proud of the collaboration between UNAOC and the private sector. Together, we continue to amplify the transformative work of social innovators globally, whose dedication and forward-thinking approaches are driving lasting positive change toward a more united and inclusive world,” said Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UNAOC.

Through the Intercultural Innovation Hub, Shreeja India will receive a financial grant, as well as one year of capacity-building and mentorship support from UNAOC, the BMW Group, and Accenture, to help strengthen the “Football and Beyond” project and its contribution towards a more inclusive society. This model of collaboration between the United Nations and the private sector creates a more profound impact, as partners provide their respective expertise to ensure the sustainable growth of each supported project.

Learn more about the project: https://www.shreeja.org/beyond-football

Further information and an overview of the recipients can be found at: https://interculturalinnovation.org/

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications
Milena Pighi

Corporate and Governmental Affairs

Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship

Email: milena.pa.pighi@bmw.de

Telephone: +49-89-382-66563

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)

Alessandro Girola

Chief, Programming and Projects Unit
Email: alessandro.girola@un.org

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. 

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United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) is an initiative of the UN Secretary-General which aims to improve understanding and cooperative relations among nations and peoples across cultures and religions and to help counter the forces that fuel polarization and extremism.

UNAOC was established in 2005, at the initiative of the Governments of Spain and Turkey, under the auspices of the United Nations. In January 2019, H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos assumed the position of High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, succeeding H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, who succeeded H.E. Mr. Jorge Sampaio. The Alliance maintains a global network of partners including states, international and regional organizations, civil society groups, foundations, and the private sector to improve cross-cultural relations between diverse nations and communities. For more information, visit www.unaoc.org

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The BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship builds on the long-term partnership between ESMT and the BMW Group. After supporting displaced women from Ukraine and young professionals from Central and Eastern Europe, the 2024 edition will focus on digitalization to cultivate tech-savvy future leaders in key countries.

“We at the BMW Group are deeply committed to making positive changes in the world. We also recognize that a multilateral and decentralized approach must be taken to achieve this goal. Therefore, I am very delighted that we are partnering again with ESMT to support young professionals. It is our common goal to help them become the leaders we need to shape future individual mobility”, says Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, People and Real Estate, and Labour Relations Director.

“The integration of technical and business knowledge is crucial to develop leaders capable of addressing the complex challenges of the future, thereby making a significant positive impact on their organizations and society,” adds Jörg Rocholl, President of ESMT. “I am delighted to continue our partnership with BMW Group. With their support, we are able to cultivate the next generation of change makers and innovators.”

The ESMT Global Online MBA is the first completely online program at the international business school. Decision-making, analytics, and innovation are at the core of the program. The innovative course design is modular and allows students to study at times that fit their schedules and at their own pace. Students may complete the program in 24 months or take up to five years. There is no physical attendance required, so students may participate from any location.

BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship application requirements include:

• ESMT Global Online MBA general application requirements
• Hold an undergraduate degree, or current employment, in mathematics and/or technology (e.g., computing, information technology, automation, digitalization)
• Be aged 30 or younger on September 1, 2024
• Be a citizen or permanent resident of Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, or South Africa; those holding refugee status in Germany are also invited to apply.
• When applying for the BMW Group Change Maker Fellowships, candidates will be asked to answer the following question: the BMW Group seeks to actively shape the future of mobility; what aspect of a digital future fascinates you the most and why?
  
  

In total, the BMW Group currently employs over 9,400 people worldwide in IT & software development. It has been pooling the company's IT expertise in IT and software hubs worldwide since 2018. In addition to the locations in Germany, South Africa, the USA, Portugal and China, there are now two more in Romania and India. The hubs have their own distinctive tech culture and a high degree of autonomy, making them attractive places to work for regional talent pools. This is why we are offering the 2024 Change Maker Fellowships with focus on digitalization to select countries of our BMW Group IT-Hub network.

More information on the fellowship and the application process may be found here.

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Milena Pighi
Communications Human Resources, Working Environment, Real Estate, Corporate Citizenship
Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship
Email: milena.pa.pighi@bmw.de
Telephone: +49-89-382-66563
Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

ESMT Berlin
Kim Matthies
PR Manager
Email: kim.matthies@esmt.org
Telephone: +49-151-1457-1830

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

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About ESMT Berlin
ESMT Berlin is a leading global business school with its campus in the heart of Berlin. Founded by 25 global companies, ESMT offers master, MBA, and PhD programs, as well as executive education on its campus in Berlin, in locations around the world, online, and in online blended format. Focusing on leadership, innovation, and analytics, its diverse faculty publishes outstanding research in top academic journals. Additionally, the international business school provides an interdisciplinary platform for discourse between politics, business, and academia. ESMT is a non-profit private institution of higher education with the right to grant PhDs and is accredited by AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS, and ZEvA. It is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all its activities and communities.

• The Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH) of UNAOC and the BMW Group, with the support of Accenture, connects people and cultures, empowers grassroots organizations and elevates intercultural innovation.
• Innovative projects championing diversity, integration and social inclusion will be selected to scale up their impact and achieve sustainable growth.
• Participants of the Hub will benefit from a financial grant of up to USD 20,000 in addition to a comprehensive capacity-building programme, international workshops, customized support and mentorship, as well as membership to an exclusive global platform.
• Deadline is: 25 March 2024 at https://www.interculturalinnovation.org/

Munich/New York. Every day, at the forefront of addressing intercultural challenges through social innovations, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, with the support of Accenture, are pleased to announce the 2024 cycle of the Intercultural Innovation Hub.

Through the Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH), we continue to connect people and cultures, empower grassroots organizations, as well as elevate and scale up innovative approaches that contribute to inclusive societies.

To this end, we invite grassroots organizations that promote intercultural dialogue and understanding as well as social inclusion to apply. Selected organizations will benefit from a comprehensive support programme designed to expand the impact of their projects.

The Intercultural Innovation Hub will select up to 10 projects focused on addressing xenophobia and hate speech, preventing violent extremism; promoting gender equality; using sport, art and culture as tools to drive social change and foster social inclusion; and building inclusive and cohesive societies.

Selected recipients will receive:

Financial support for sustainable growth: Each finalist will receive up to USD 20,000 to scale up the sustainability of their project and accelerate the impact of their work.

Year-long capacity-building programme: Selected recipients also will benefit from a year-long series of capacity-building workshops, focused support, and customized mentoring provided by UNAOC and the BMW Group, with the support of Accenture.

Access and membership to a global leadership platform: Recipients will have an opportunity to extend their spheres of influence, collaborate with other changemakers, and take part in regional and international events by becoming part of a global leadership network.

To apply, please read the eligibility criteria and complete your application no later than 5 p.m. (EDT) on 25 March 2024 at
http://www.interculturalinnovation.org/application-process

If you have any questions, please contact:

BMW Group Corporate Communications
Milena Pighi
Corporate and Governmental Affairs
Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship
Email: milena.pa.pighi@bmw.de
Telephone: +49-89-382-66563

Media website: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en
Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
Alessandro Girola
Chief, Programming and Projects Unit
Email: alessandrog@unops.org