NEC to Sponsor Groundbreaking International CNN Video Blog Initiative

‘Be the Change’ begins this month, and will be broadcast on CNN International television and featured extensively on www.cnn.com.

Harnessing CNN global reach, ‘Be the Change’ features blogs and videos of volunteer's lives and jobs, with the goal of communicating the efforts of six ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things in the pursuit of benefiting others. NEC and CNN hope that the tireless work of these volunteers, illustrated via this unique global platform, will inspire others to make their own impact through similar ventures.

"We are proud to be supporting such a remarkable endeavor, which genuinely mirrors NEC's own mission of empowering people and societies through innovation that effects change for the better," said Junichi Shibi, General Manager, Advertising Division, NEC Corporation. "Throughout the last century, NEC has continuously sought ways to contribute to society through technological innovation and advanced solutions, and this global venture is an ideal showcase to ignite individual passion and philanthropic inspiration for people worldwide."

Whether it's building a sports complex for a disadvantaged community in South Africa, or aiding street orphans in Cambodia, ‘Be the Change’ volunteers are committing their lives, time and energy to work for others. CNN producers will air one video diary as a weekly segment on CNN International television, while blogs from all volunteers will be hosted on a specially produced web site. The site will include biographical sketches and links to the volunteers' individual organizations and photo galleries. The web site will be interactive, allowing visitors to comment and post questions to and for the contributors.

"‘Be the Change’ is a fantastic initiative and we are delighted to have the support of NEC in this groundbreaking venture," said William Hsu, Vice President, News Advertising Sales, CNN Asia Pacific. "To highlight and celebrate work that is rarely reported on - and often barely visible to the larger community - is hugely important and we hope that our global audience will share in these unique experiences," he added. -NEC