Start your week informed.
Raquel shared all the news, including the latest from Mobile World Congress and about our Ukraine talk-and-text relief offer.
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On today’s Up To Speed Live, host Raquel Wilson shared the following updates:
Ukraine talk-and-text relief
Our hearts continue to be with the people of Ukraine during this difficult time. In response to recent developments, Verizon will waive charges for calls from postpaid consumer and business wireless customers and residential landline customers to and from Ukraine, from Feb. 25 through March 10. We will also waive voice and text roaming charges for customers in Ukraine.
If you’d like to help, Verizon wireless customers can donate $25 by texting UKRAINE to 25383. Please note, the donations will be applied to your wireless bill. Text to Donate will provide relief to Ukraine through the International Rescue Committee through food, medical care and emergency supplies to refugee families in Ukraine.
Black History Month recap
As Black History Month wraps, we’re reflecting on how we celebrated our theme, “Knowledge in Action.” From the BOLD “Unapologetically Ambitious” LinkedIn Live event, featuring Verizon Board Member Shellye Archambeau and Consumer Group Chief Operating Officer Krista Bourne, to highlighting Black technicians and other talented V Teamers, this month was packed with ways to connect with our community, including more than 2,800 hours devoted to volunteerism.
Last week, the public policy group partnered with BOLD to present Shoot for the Moon, Land Among the Stars, an inspiring LinkedIn panel discussion hosted by Verizon’s Donna Epps, who leads our public policy team. The event also featured Sharon Dougle — a retired spacesuit technician and the first Black woman astronaut to visit outer space — as well as other prominent Black women in STEM.
Women’s History Month
As Black History Month comes to a close, Women’s History Month begins! We have so many events in store, starting with a March 1 WAVE LinkedIn event focused on our theme, “Break the Bias.” Informing, inspiring and celebrating women and their allies, this event will feature Magda Yrizarry, Verizon SVP and Chief DEI Officer; and Deborah Tsai Munster, Seramount’s VP of People, Culture & Operations. Co-hosts Raquel Wilson and Diana Alvear will lead a series of panels and discussions with women who have conquered challenges throughout their careers.
Also, be sure to check out the International Women’s Day event with Women’s CoLab and Bustle on March 8.
Speaking of strong women, congrats to Maggie Hallbach for being named Senior Vice President for Verizon Public Sector! She will lead the team that serves the company’s federal, state, local, education and Verizon Frontline public-safety customers. Maggie has been with the V Team for more than 25 years and has served in several roles.
There will be many more events and opportunities to get involved, so stay tuned!
National Nutrition Month
A healthy lifestyle depends on good nutritional habits and behaviors. That’s why we’re celebrating National Nutrition Month this March with fun activities, delicious recipes and interactive challenges. Coach Rachel and the entire Verizon coaching staff are excited and available to answer questions and offer support.
This year’s theme is “A World of Flavors.” Each week in March, we’re asking V Teamers to create and enjoy cuisine from a different part of the globe to nourish ourselves and celebrate our diversity. Fun challenges include creating your own spice combinations and marinades, visiting local farmers markets, and hosting a dinner party. “A World of Flavors” kicks off with Latin America and a challenge to make your own pico de gallo.
Click here to register for National Nutrition Month.
Investor Day
As Hans mentioned last week, Investor Day is March 3. Our leadership team will meet with the investor community to discuss our narrative and strategy, including our five vectors of growth. We’ll have more from the big event later this week.
Mobile World Congress
Starting today, we’re in Barcelona, Spain, for Mobile World Congress. Many of our leaders — including Verizon Business Group CEO Tami Erwin and Chief Strategy Officer Rima Qureshi — will be keynote speakers at the event. This year’s theme, “Connected Impact,” covers the most groundbreaking technology of today and explores how it can shape the way we live tomorrow. Tune in to Up To Speed later this week for highlights.
Employee Appreciation Day
This coming Friday is Employee Appreciation Day. Head to our special Jamboard to share your appreciation for your fellow V Teamers!
If you have any questions, email them to live@verizon.com.
