In the recent edition of the SABRE Awards Latin America, SHIFT Porter Novelli not only stood out but triumphed, reflecting the commitment, innovation, and passion we bring to every project. These accolades celebrate our communication excellence and showcase the transformative power of campaigns underpinned by genuine human connection and joy in our work.
This year, the agency was honored to be finalists with two high-quality communication campaigns: “Costa Rica in the World Cup’s Skin” and “PADVERTISING, NOT A LUXURY. PERIOD (MENSTRUAL JUSTICE)”, the latter in partnership with our sister agency, PHD Costa Rica. Both initiatives pushed the boundaries of what communication can achieve, proving that impactful ideas, backed by effective execution, can foster real societal change.
“Costa Rica in the World Cup’s Skin”, a project conceived to boost Costa Rica’s reputation during the sports event, turned the skin of Celso Borges, a national soccer figure, into a living billboard for the country. The initiative aimed to highlight the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica, amplifying its visibility on the global stage.
On the other hand, “Padvertising: Not A Luxury. Period” addressed a significant social issue in Costa Rica, where sanitary products were considered luxury items, making them inaccessible to many women. Through this campaign, we raised awareness and mobilized society and politicians to drive a legal change, ensuring women access basic hygiene products.

Rodrigo Castro, CEO of SHIFT Porter Novelli, stated, “This acknowledgment reflects the positive impact we can make when collaborating with sister agencies like PHD Costa Rica. It attests to the synergistic potential and the trust our clients place in us to tackle creative and strategic challenges with authentic focus and clear purpose.”
The campaigns garnered several recognitions, among them:
- Platinum SABRE Award for Best in Show: Winner with “Padvertising: Not A Luxury. Period — Menstrual Justice Law Costa Rica.”
- The SABRE Award for Superior Achievement in Reputation Management: Winner with “Padvertising: Not A Luxury. Period.”
- Central America: Winner with “Padvertising: Not A Luxury. Period.”
- Travel & Leisure: Winner with “Costa Rica in the World Cup’s Skin” by ICT.
Securing 4 out of 6 possible awards, including the festival’s top accolade and the award for the best agency in Central America.
Gabriela Piedra, Senior Vice President of SHIFT Porter Novelli, noted, “These awards reflect the dedication, passion, and commitment our team pours into every project. Winning in the Reputation category and for the ICT campaign not only fills us with pride but reaffirms the effectiveness of our methodology and approach in crafting human-centric strategies.”
Oscar Solano, Creative Vice President of SHIFT Porter Novelli, remarked, “Being recognized with the Grand Prix, BEST IN SHOW, and as the Best Agency in Central America speaks volumes about the level of creativity and innovation we’re contributing, not just to the region but to the global communications industry. It’s tangible evidence that our fresh, disruptive approach has the power to reshape narratives and leave a lasting impact.”
The SABRE Awards Latin America represent the pinnacle of acknowledgment in the public relations sector, honoring campaigns that excel in strategic planning, creativity, and business outcomes. These awards gauge regional excellence and pave the way for global competition, as winners are automatically shortlisted for the Global SABRE Awards. Winning a SABRE is a testimony to having excelled against the world’s best campaigns, validated by a high-caliber industry judging panel. Clinching a SABRE is a true celebration of talent and innovation in communications.
